Pockthorpe
towermill

Contact

Drainage Mills (Windpumps)
Steam Mills
Watermills

c.1885
c.1885

Jeremiah James Colman bought Pockthorpe_smockmill in March in 1804 and sometime during the next ten years it was demolished and replaced by Pockthorpe towermill on the same site. Prior to moving to Pockthorpe, J. J. Colman ran the old wooden watermill at Bawburgh. During its years the towermill was also known as Bagshaw's Mill, Bayfield's Mill and St Paul's Mill. In 1814, Jeremiah Colman took over Stoke_Holy_Cross_watermill and Edward Ames' stock of mustard.
A horse mill was also advertised as being on the site in 1814.


Pockthorpe towermill stood on land between Magdalen Road and Silver Road, approximately where St. Olaves Road was later laid.


Pockthorpe towermill replaced the smockmill that stood on the same site. The smockmill in turn replaced an earlier postmill and the its tower was built over the postmill's roundhouse. After the smockmill was demolished, the 58 ft. roundhouse remained and was used for storage.


Pockthorpe towermill had a 6 storey tower and stood on land between Magdalen Road and Silver Road, approximately where Knowsley Road was later laid. The mill used patent sails to drive 3 pairs of stones and later, a 10 h.p. steam engine to drive an additional 2 pairs of stones. By at least 1882 the mill had lost its sails and was only using a steam engine with a 12 h.p. and Boiler, driving four pairs of Stones


Mill grinding capacity in 1841:
15 lasts (15 coomb sacks) of corn per week
3 pairs of stones wind driven and 2 pairs steam driven = 60 coombs per pair of stones per week


Arthur Bayfield was the next miller. He was there by 1820, when there was an accident at the mill.


On Sunday last an inquest was taken at the Trowel and Hammer public-house, without St. Stephen's Gates, before William Bell, Gent. Coroner, on view of the body of Stephen Sutton, aged 17, or thereabouts, who died in consequence of being struck with a mill sail. The deceased was servant to Mr. Bayfield, in the hamlet of Pockthorpe, and in endeavouring to pass between the sails some part of them unfortunately struck his head. - he was immediately conveyed to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, where he survived a short time. Several witnesses were called, who proved the facts. - Verdict, Accidental Death.
Norfolk Chronicle - 23rd December 1820


Arthur Bayfield was born on the 5th February 1797 at Antingham, Norfolk, the son of William and Mary Bayfield.


Pockthorpe towermill was marked on the 1830 and 1834 maps. Arthur Bayfield was listed in Pigot's directory of 1830 as being at this and Crook's_Place_towermill. He was still at Pockthorpe in 1834, when he sold some of his stock in trade left over from Crook's Place towermill, which he ran from 1830 to 1834.


TO MILLERS & OTHERS,
By WM. BUTCHER
On Monday, the 6th of October, 1834,
At the Mill near Magdalen Gates
In the occupation of Mr. ARTHUR BAYFIELD.

BEING PART of the STOCK in TRADE of the Mills in Crook's_Place, lately occupied by him, about 1000 Millers' Sacks, two pair French Burr Stones, Straps; six Sack Barrows, Flour Bin, Luggage Cart, pair of Harrows, and about Five Acres of Potatoes, in Lots.
Norfolk Chronicle - 20th September 1834

A steam mill had been added to the mill by 1835.


TO BE LET

ALL that spacious SHOP and WAREHOUSE, of the late Mr. Plummer situated in St. Andrew's, near the Market-place, Norwich.
For particulars apply to Mr. Eaton, Gentleman's Walk, or to Mr. Bayfield, at the Steam Mills Magdalen Gates.
Norfolk Chronicle - 2nd May 1835

The mill was put up for auction in March 1841.


EXCELLENT
WINDMILL & STEAM ENGINE
NEAT RESIDENCE &c.
Near MAGDALEN GATES, Norwich.
Mr. BUTCHER
Is Instructed by the Mortgagee
To SELL by AUCTION,
At the Royal Hotel, Norwich,
On Saturday, the 13th day of March, 1841,
At 4 o'clock in the Afternoon

ALL that very superior WIND-MILL and STEAM ENGINE, with Dwelling-house and 1½ Acre of Land adjoining, lately and for many years past in the possession of Mr. Arthur Bayfield, situate in the Hamlet of Pockthorpe, near Magdalen Gates, in the county of the city of Norwich.
The Wind-mill has six floors, Patent Sails, Iron Shaft, with new Stocks, and drives three pair of stones, with a Round-house, the diameter of which is twenty yards. The Steam Engine, of about ten horse power, has been erected on the most approved principle within the last six years, at a very considerable cost, and drives two additional pairs of Stones, besides all the machinery connected with the Wind-mill.
The above Mill and Engine are capable of Manufacturing 15 lasts of Corn per week, and are exceedingly well situated in a fine Corn District, where a plentiful supply of the best grain can at all times be obtained. They are also admirably situated for delivery on board Craft for the London and distant Markets, being within about a quarter of a mile of the Navigable River. There is a very large and highly respectable Private Business attached to the Mill, which is now in full trade, and possesses a great advantage over other Mills in the County, of similar extent, as two horses are amply sufficient to carry on the trade.
The Dwelling-house is delightfully situated on a rising ground, commanding a very fine and extensive view over the City and its environs, and contains a vestibule, parlour, keeping-room, kitchen, back kitchen, five bed-rooms, small room over vestibule, offices, &c.
There are also a Stable, Barn, Cart-lodge, and about One Acre and a Half of very productive Ground, part whereof forms a very pretty Garden, in which is a Summer-house
The Dwelling-house, Outbuildings, and Land are held under a Lease for a term of 17 years from 29th September, 1834, at the rent of £10 per annum.
Further particulars and Conditions of Sale may be had of Mr. Durrant, Solicitor, Surrey Street, and of Mr. Butcher, Auctioneer, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 27th February & 13th March 1841

No buyer was found, and the mill was offered for sale by private contract in March and again in April 1841.


To Millers, Flour Factors, &c.
EXCELLENT
WIND-MILL & STEAM ENGINE,
NEAT RESIDENCE, &c.
Near Magdalen Gates, Norwich,
A DECIDED BARGAIN.
To be SOLD by Private Contract,
With Immediate Possession,

With Immediate Possession,
ALL that very superior WIND-MILL and STEAM-ENGINE, with Dwelling-house and 1½ Acre of Land adjoining, lately and for many years past in the possession of Mr. ARTHUR BAYFIELD, situate in the Hamlet of Pockthorpe, near Magdalen Gates, in the county of the city of Norwich.
Further particulars may be had of Mr. Durrant, Solicitor, Surrey Street, and of Mr. Butcher, Theatre Street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 10th March 1841

TO MILLERS,
TO BE LET,
In the Vicinity of Norwich, on Advantageous Terms,

A Capital TOWER WINDMILL, with Iron Shaft, Patent Sails, Stocks and Clumps, nearly new, combining the latest improvements.
The Mill draws three pair of Stones with Flour Apparatus, &c. commanding an excellent Trade, enclosed in a Pightle of Land, with a comfortable Dwelling House, Stable, and Piggeries, forming a complete occupation, as rarely offers.
Application to be made, with satisfactory reasons for leaving, addressed (post paid) to Chas. S. Gilman, Esq. Bethel-street, will have due attention.
Norfolk Chronicle - 24th April 1841

The mill was damaged in a gale on the 4th February 1842.


Capital Mill, House & Land near MAGDALEN GATES, NORWICH
For Sale by Private Contract

A very superior WINDMILL and STEAM ENGINE with an excellent Dwelling House and 1a. 2r. 0p. of Land adjoining situate near Magdalen Gates, Norwich now in the occupation of the Proprietors Messrs. Robert & Edward Leeds.
The Windmill has six Floors, patent Sails, iron Shaft with new Stocks and drives three pairs of Stones, also a Round House, the diameter of which is Twenty Yards. The Steam Engine of about Ten Horse power has been erected on the most approved principle within the last eight years at a very considerable cost and drives two additional pairs of stones besides all the Machinery connected with the Windmill.
The above Mill and Engine are capable of manufacturing from 10 to 12 Lasts of corn per week . . . upwards of £600 having been expended upon them within the last Two years.
The Dwelling House, Outbuildings and Land are held under a Lease for a term of 17 years from 29th September, 1834 at the Yearly Rent of £10 per annum.
Part of the Purchase Money may remain on the Estate at £4 per cent.
Apply to Mr. Edward Leeds upon the Premises or to Mr. I. O. Taylor Solr. St. Giles Street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 12th, 19th & 26th October 1844

Arthur Bayfield was listed in Blyth's Directory of 1842 and he died on the 11th February 1845.


Edward and Robert Leeds were the next millers. Edward Leeds was born c.1817 in Kelling, Norfolk. In March 1844, Edward Leeds appeared in Court charged with a felony.


GUILD HALL
FRIDAY, MARCH 1.

CHARGE OF FELONY. - Edward Leeds, of St. James's appeared to answer a charge of having stolen his own flour under the following circumstances: - James Sexton, of Pockthorpe, a bake-house keeper, stated, that he had bought two sacks of flour from Mr. Leeds, on the previous day, for £4.2s. He gave his wife £4 to pay for the flour when delivered; but it appeared that she did not pay the money, and Mr. Leeds had gone to the bake-house, broke it open, and took the flour away. - Mr. Jay appeared for the defendant, and cross-examined the last witness, who said, he had bought the flour for ready money. It was usual to pay on delivery, but there was no bargain to that effect, he believed his wife had paid for the flour. He had the bill and receipt in his pocket. (He produced the receipt which was signed by Mr. Leeds) - The defendant here stated "I wrote out a receipt before I sent the flour." - Mary Sexton, having been sworn, stated, that when the man brought in the last sack of flour she laid four sovereigns on the baking board, and the man gave her the receipt, and turning away she said this is all right. She did not pretend that the man saw the sovereigns or took them up. She did not intend to pay the 2s., as that sum was allowed for discount. - James Ives deposed, that he was employed by Mr. Leeds, and had delivered the flour, but he did not get the money, Mr. Sexton said, her husband was not at home. When he returned either he or she would go and pay Mr. Leeds the money. He left the bill, not knowing that it was receipted. he never saw any money laid down; he would swear to this positively. - Mr. Palmer said, it was clear that Mr. Leeds had no business to break open the bake-house, and if an action was brought, ten to one but a jury would give a verdict against him. The man could have taken back the flour if he had pleased. he could not understand why Mr. Leeds receipted the bill before he sent it out. - The defendant was ordered to pay costs, and the case was dismissed.
Norfolk Chronicle - 9th March 1844

Capital Mill, House and Land,
NEAR MAGDALEN GATES,
Norwich
For SALE by Private Contract,

A Very Superior WINDMILL and STEAM ENGINE, with an excellent Dwelling-house, and
1A. 2R. 0P. of Land adjoining, situate near Magdalen Gates, Norwich, now in the occupation of Messrs. Robert and Edward Leeds.
The Windmill has six Floors, Patent Sails, iron shaft, with new Stocks, and drives three pairs of Stones, also a Round house, the diameter of which is Twenty yards. The Steam Engine, of about Ten Horse Power, has been erected on the most approved principle, within the last eight years, at a very considerable cost, and drives two additional pairs of Stones, besides all the machinery in the Windmill. The above MILL and Engine are capable of manufacturing from 10 to 12 Lasts of Corn per week, and are exceedingly well situated for the Purchase of Corn and the delivery of Flour, being within half a mile of the Navigable River; and of the centre of the City. A large and highly respectable Private Business is attached to the Mill, and the Premises are in excellent repair, upwards of £600 having been expended upon them within the last Two years.
The Dwelling-house, Outbuildings, and Land, are held under a Lease for a term of 17 years, from the 29th Sept. 1834, at the yearly rate of £10 per annum.
Part of the Purchase Money may remain on the Estate, at £4 per cent.
For further particulars apply to Mr. Edward Leeds, upon the premises; or Mr. I. O. Taylor, Solicitor, St. Giles' Street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 12th October 1844

The partnership between Robert and Edward Leeds was dissolved and the mill put up for auction early in 1845.


Norwich, 18th January 1845.

The Partnership hitherto subsisting between us, the undersigned, trading under the Firm of Robert and Edward Leeds, or Leeds and Company, Millers and Merchants, Magdalen Street Gates, Norwich, having been this day Dissolved by Mutual Consent, all Debts due by the said Firm will be discharged upon application at the Mill, situate in the Hamlet of Pockthorpe, and at which place it is requested that all Debts due to the said Firm may be immediately paid.
Witness our hands this 18th day of January, 1845.
ROBERT LEEDS.
EDWARD LEEDS.
In the presence of WILLIAM DURRANT.

Norwich
To be SOLD by AUCTION
By J. R. MANN and SON,
At the Norfolk Hotel, Norwich,
On Saturday, the 8th day of February 1845,
At Four o'clock in the Afternoon.

THE superior TOWER WINDMILL & Steam Engine, with capital Dwelling-house, and 1½ Acre of Land, situate near Magdalen Gates, in the City of Norwich, now in the occupation of the Proprietors, Messrs. Leeds.
The mill has six floors, iron shaft with new stocks, and patent sails, driving three pairs of stones; also a Round-house capable of containing fifty lasts of corn, and an excellent granary for offal. The Steam-engine, of ten horse power, drives two additional pair of stones, besides all the machinery connected with the mills.
The mills are capable of manufacturing 12 lasts of corn per week, have a most respectable private trade, and are well situated, being within about a quarter of a mile of the Navigation to Yarmouth.
One horse is amply sufficient to carry on the business.
The mills and machinery are in excellent repair, a large sum having been lately expended upon them.
The dwelling-house is pleasantly situated, and contains entrance hall, parlour, keeping-room kitchen, back-kitchen, and six chambers, cellar, necessary offices, and pump.
Further Particulars and Conditions of Sale may be had of Mr. I. O. Taylor, Solicitor, St. Giles' Street, or to the Auctioneer, St. Michael at Plea, Norwich.
(One Concern)
Norfolk Chronicle - 1st February 1845

DIED

Tuesday last, at Thetford, after a short illness resulting from an accident, Mr. Arthur Bayfield, late of this city, aged 48.
Norfolk Chronicle - 15th February 1845

Robert Leeds remained at Pockthorpe and Edward Leeds took over the watermill at Hillborough, Norfolk in 1845. In 1851 he was given as a miller employing 8 men, living with his wife Sarah Lamprey (née Lewin).

Pockthorpe mill was put up for sale by private contract in September 1846.


For SALE by Private Contract,
With Possession at Michaelmas next,
FIRST-RATE
Corn, Wind, and Steam Mills.

WITH convenient Dwelling-house, Outbuildings, and Garden adjoining. - The Mills are doing an excellent Retail Trade, and are desirably situated near the most populous part of the City.
For particulars and price apply to Mr. I. O. Taylor, Solicitor, St. Giles' Street, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 5th & 12th September 1846

Wind and Steam Mills.
Norwich
To be SOLD by AUCTION
Without Reserve,
By J. R. MANN and SON,
At the Norfolk Hotel, Norwich,
On Saturday, the 3rd day of October, 1846,
At Four o'clock in the Afternoon,

THE superior TOWER WIND-MILL and STEAM-ENGINE, with capital Dwelling-house, and One and a Half Acre of Land, situate near Magdalen Gates, in the city of Norwich, now in the occupation of Mr. Robt. Leeds.
The Mill has six floors, iron shaft, with new stocks and patent sails, driving three pairs of stones; also, a Round-house, capable of containing 50 lasts of corn, and an excellent Granary for offal. The Steam Engine is 10-horse power, drives two additional pair of stones, besides all the machinery connected with the mills.
The mills are capable of manufacturing 12 lasts of corn per week, have a most respectable private trade, and are well situated, being about a quarter of a mile of the Railway station.
One Horse is amply sufficient to carry on the business.
The Mill and Machinery are in excellent repair, a large sum having been lately expended upon them.
The Dwelling-house is pleasantly situated and contains entrance hall, parlour, keeping-room, kitchen, back kitchen, and six chambers, cellar, suitable offices, and pump; there are also a Stable, Barn, Cart-lodge, and Piggeries
The Dwelling-house, Out-buildings and Land, are held under a Lease for a term of 17 years, from the twenty-ninth of September, 1834, at the rate of £10 per annum.
Further particulars and conditions of sale may be had of Mr. I. O. Taylor, Solicitor, Saint Giles's, or the Auctioneers, Bank Plain, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 26th September & 2nd October 1846

Edward Leeds was having some difficulty in collecting all his outstanding debts in 1846


Wind and Steam Mills, Magdalen Gates, NORWICH.

All Persons indebted to Mr. EDWARD LEEDS, or to the late Firm of Messrs. ROBERT and EDWARD LEEDS, are requested to pay the amount of their respective debts to Mr. Edward Leeds, at the mills, or to Mr. I. O. Taylor, Solicitor, Norwich. Such debts as remain unpaid one month from this date, will be enforced by legal proceedings without further notice.
All persons having claims of Mr. Edward Leeds, are desired forthwith to deliver a statement of the same thereof to him, or to Mr. I. O. Taylor, in order that the same may be examined and discharged.
St. Giles' Street, Norwich
29th October, 1846.

Norfolk Chronicle & Norwich Gazette - 31st October 1846

Edward Reynolds, born c.1820 at Hethersett, was the next miller. He was bankrupt by December 1849 when his stock in trade was sold off at the mills.


STEAM MILLS,
MAGDALEN GATES, Norwich.
To Millers, Bakers, Coal Merchants, &c. &c.
To be SOLD by AUCTION,
By R. RAMSDALE,
On Thursday, December 13TH, 1849,
By order of the Assignees of
Mr. E. N. REYNOLDS,
(A Bankrupt,) the following
STOCK IN TRADE, &c. &c.

2 Capital CART HORSES, excellent double breasted van, Miller's Cart, 4 extra-large Water Casks, set of pair-horse Van Harness, 70 Sacks of Flour, Meal, &c. 28 Tons of Coals, 25 coombs of wheat, 400 Flour Sacks, 60 Coal Sacks, Scales and Weights, 5 Sack Barrows, 13 Flour Cloths, 24 Furnace Bars, 2 Pails, Chaff Box, Grindstone and Trough, 5 Casks, Pair of Cart Wheels, Carpenter's Bench, Ladder, Winnowing Machine, Riddling Stone, 6 Iron Hoes, 2 Bushel Measures, 4 Sieves, Wheelbarrow, and an assortment of Wrenches, and other Tools, &c.
The whole will be Sold on the Premises without the least reserve, and the Sale will commence at 11 o'clock precisely.

Norfolk Chronicle & Norwich Gazette - 8th December 1849

WIND and STEAM
FLOUR MILLS
AND RESIDENCE,
Within a short distance of Magdalen Gates, Norwich.
WM. SPELMAN & SONS
Are honoured with instructions from the Mortgagees and Assignees of Mr. EDWARD REYNOLDS, a Bankrupt,
To SELL by AUCTION,
On Saturday, the 2nd day of February, 1850,
At Three O'clock in the Afternoon,
At the Bell Inn, Orford Hill, Norwich,
ALL that Valuable ESTATE, situate in the hamlet of Pockthorpe, in the City of Norwich.
CONSISTING OF A
TOWER WIND-MILL

with spacious round-house, patent sails, winds herself, iron shaft, drives three pairs of stones, with flour mills, jumpers (on an improved principle) and all her going gears complete.
Also a STEAM MILL
Adjoining, fitted with Engine of 12 horse power, boiler nearly new, driving 4 pair of stones, having lately been put into complete repair and good working condition, at a very considerable outlay.
There are also two granaries, coal shed, barn, stable, piggeries, yards, and comfortable
FAMILY RESIDENCE,
With garden and land adjoining, containing altogether about one acre and a half.
The above valuable Wind and Steam mills are capable of manufacturing 20 lasts of corn per week.
Leasehold for a Term, of which 16 years are unexpired at Michaelmas last.
Further Particulars and Conditions of Sale may be had on application to Mr. E. C. Bailey, Solicitor, Norwich; Messrs. Reynolds and Palmer, Solicitors, Great Yarmouth; or to the Auctioneers.
Norfolk Chronicle - 19th & 26th January 1850

The mill did not find a buyer and was advertised again a few weeks later.


Wind and Steam Flour Mills,
Magdalen Gates, NORWICH
William Spelman & Sons are instructed to Sell by Auction
at the Star Inn, Norwich
on Saturday 2 March 1850 at 3 for 4 o'c

All that valuable ESTATE in the hamlet of Pockthorpe, Norwich consisting of a TOWER WINDMILL with spacious round-house, patent sails, winds herself, iron shaft, drives three pairs of stones, with flour mills, jumpers (on an improved principle) and all her going gears complete.

Norfolk Chronicle - 26th September & 2nd October 1846
Also a STEAM MILL
Adjoining, fitted with Engine of 12 horse power, boiler nearly new, driving 4 pair of stones, having lately been put into complete repair and good working condition, at a very considerable outlay.
The whole of the Machinery, Fixtures & Trade Utensils belonging to the Mill will be included in the purchase.
Attached to the above Premises are two Granaries, Coal shed, Barn, Stable, Piggeries and Yards and comfortable Family Residence
with Garden and Land adjoining containing about One Acre.
Leasehold for a term of which 16 years were unexpired at Michaelmas last.
Apply to E. C. Bailey, Solr. Norwich or the Auctioneers.
Norfolk Chronicle & Norwich Gazette - 23rd February 1850

PEREMPTORY SALE
Wind & Steam Flour Mills,
And Family Residence,
Magdalen Gates, Norwich,
THIS DAY (Saturday) the 2nd of March, 1850,
At the Star Inn, Haymarket, Norwich,
At Three for Four o'clock in the Afternoon

E. C. BAILEY
Vendor's Solicitor.
Norfolk Chronicle & Norwich Gazette - 2nd March 1850

Wind and Steam Flour Mills.
TO LET

ALL that TOWER WINDMILL, with Going Gears complete; also a STEAM MILL, fitted with Engine of 12-horse power and Boiler, driving four pairs of Stones.
Attached to the above, and most pleasantly situated, is a comfortable FAMILY DWELLING-HOUSE with Stable, Granaries, Coal Sheds, &c., and about an acre of Garden Ground.
For rent and other particulars apply to Mr. E. C. Bailey, Solicitor, Little Orford Street, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 16th August 1851

John Custance Hammond was the next miller. He was the illegitimate son of Sophia Custance of Catton. He was born in St. Paul's and baptised on the 5th February 1817 when he was given the forenames John Hammond, his surname being Custance. Later, after his mother married James Hammond at St. Michael Coslany church, on the 1st July 1817, he probably then became known as John Custance Hammond.
In 1851 John Hammond was given as master miller aged 33 living in Magdalen Street, St. Paul's with his wife Lydia (38). He was at the mill for about three years before taking the Magdalen Road post mill in 1854.

He had married Lydia Howard on the 30th November 1845 at St. Clement's church, Catton. He learned his trade under James Capon at Catton_towermill in the 1840's as he was lodging in the Mill Hill area of Catton at that time.


John Hammond was followed by Edward Sparkes, b.Stratton Strawless, who had been listed in White's Directory of 1845 as a miller living in Wagon and Horses Lane. In 1851 Edward Sparks was given as a wine and spirit merchant aged 35 living in Magdalen Street, St. Clement with his wife Sarah (38).


The mill was robbed on the 30th March 1852.


Police Intelligence
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21.

STEALING WHEAT. - Thomas Olley was charged with stealing a quantity of wheat, the property of Mr. Edward Sparkes, miller. - Mr. Mendham appeared on the part of the prosecutor, and Mr. Woolbright for the prisoner. - It appeared that the prisoner occupied a cottage near Mr. Sparkes' mill, without Magdalen Gates; and Mr. Sparkes' man (Rump) stated, he left the mill at one o'clock on Saturday, but in consequence of information he received he returned, and found the granary open, and the prisoner inside putting some corn into a bag, with an old measure. He cried out "Hallo, Olley, what are you after?" He said "d--- it." Witness again asked him what he was doing there; to which he replied he was only after a peck or two of pollard. Witness took the key out of the door; and said "Where did you get this?" He said it was the key of his door. Witness went into the mill to speak to the clerk, and saw the prisoner leave the granary with his bag in his hand. - Byron Forman said he went back with Rump to the mill, and saw the prisoner get over the fence into his garden with a bag. - Police constables Dawes and Parkerson deposed to apprehending the prisoner. They saw him going through a neighbour's shed, they found a sack containing 13 stone 10lbs. of wheat, and on the prisoner's premises were also found several other bags, containing various quantities and sorts of wheat. - The neighbour Clarke said, that on Saturday morning the prisoner asked him if he might put some pollard in his shed, to which he assented. Mr. Sparkes identified the samples of wheat produced, and further stated, that on Saturday afternoon the prisoner came to his house, and asked him not to prosecute him, on account of his wife and family; but having had reason to suppose that the system of robbing had been going on some time, he could not consent to do so. - The prisoner was committed for trial.
Norfolk Chronicle - 24th April 1852

Norwich SESSONS,

Matthew Holly (54) was charged with having stolen on March 30th, at Pockthorpe, 53 stone wheat, 45lbs of Flour, 41 stone of pollard, 11 stone of rubbles, one sack and one bag, the property of Edward Sparkes. The prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to two months imprisonment.
Norfolk Chronicle - 3rd July 1852

Edward Sparks was listed in White's Directory of 1854 as a merchant with a home at the Steam Mills, Magdalen Gates.


TO MILLERS
TO BE LET AT MICHAELMAS

THE Tower WIND-MILL and Steam Mill, Granaries, Coalsheds, Barn, Stable, an Acre of Land, and comfortable DWELLING-HOUSE adjoining, situate at Magdalen Gates, Norwich, now occupied by Mr. Edward Sparks.
Apply to Mr. E. C. Bailey, Solicitor, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 5th August 1854

TO MILLERS
TO BE LET AT MICHAELMAS

THE Tower WIND and Steam MILLS, with comfortable DWELLING-HOUSE Stables, and Outbuildings, and an Acre of Land, situate near Magdalen Gates, Norwich, now occupied by Mr. E. Sparks.
Apply to Mr. E. C. Bailey, Solicitor, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 9th, 16th & 23rd September 1854

George Bagshaw acquired the mills. He was born c.1810 at North Walsham. He used them for crushing bones for fertiliser. He may also have continued the corn trade. The mills may have been to let in June 1859.


WIND AND STEAM CORN MILLS
TO LET

THE WIND-MILL driving four pairs of stones, and the STEAM-MILL, which adjoins, driving three pairs, with a comfortable Family Residence, excellent Garden, spacious Granaries, Two Cottagers, and about Two Acres of superior Land, within half a mile of a free navigation, and a few hours of a first-class seaport. A very long-established business is now being worked in the above.
For particulars of rent &c., apply to Messrs. Clowes and Flowerdew, Land Agents, Bank Chambers, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 18th June 1859

In 1860, Riches and Watts supplied one of their Patent American Grist Mills to George Bagshaw.
His testimonial reads:-

Gentlemen, - In reply to you enquiry, I beg to say that the American Grist Mill you supplied me with in 1860, is I consider, an exceedingly simple and efficient machine; it has been, during the past season, especially invaluable to me in grinding barley, &c., for fattening geese, upwards of 10,000 geese, of which I supplied to the London markets at Christmas; in this case I had to depend almost entirely on your American Mill, working it almost day and night for weeks, grinding from 500 to 600 coombs per week. I have a high opinion of its merits, seeing the work it has done with so little repair.
GEORGE BAGSHAW.

The mills were in the occupation of John Andrews from 1863 to 1865. He was in partnership with George Bagshaw and was later listed as a corn miller at New Catton. There was an accident at Bagshaw's Saw Mills at St. Miles in 1866 in which a man lost a foot.


By 1868 George Bagshaw was in partnership with Edward Darby Horsfield of Antingham Lower and Antingham Upper Bone Mills. They were listed in White’s and Harrod’s Directories of 1868 as bone crushers &c at Magdalen Gates.


In 1874 there were several advertisements containing items such as the following:-

G. & J. BAGSHAW

HALF inch Bones and Bone dust -
Agent B. Andrews -
works Magdalen Gates -
Norfolk News - 16th May 1874

Joseph Bagshaw was born c.1853 in Norwich. G. & R. G. Bagshaw were listed in Hamilton's Directory of 1879 as paper manufacturers, rag and metal merchants, and dealers in game and poultry at St. Miles. Robert George Bagshaw was born c.1843 in Norwich. He was living in "Mill Hill House" in 1880, when it was put up for auction. It was withdrawn at £2,850.


DIED.

BAGSHAW. - On the 28th inst., Mary Ann, the wife of George Bagshaw, of St. Miles', in this city, in the 81st year of her age.
Norfolk News - 31st July 1880

In 1881, George Bagshaw was given as a farmer of 600 acres employing 16 men, 7 boys and 5 women and also a paper & manure maker employing 19 men and 1 boy. He was then aged 71 and living in Tooley Street, St. Mary at Coslany with daughter Emma (48); Robert George Bagshaw was given as living at The Crescent, St. Stephen's with wife Maria E. (39), and son George R. (16); Joseph Bagshaw was given as living in Saw Mill Yard, St. Michael at Coslany with sons Walter (12), Frank (8), and Abraham (3), and daughters Alice, (10) and Annie (6).


William Mileham born c.1822 in South Walsham, may have been working the mill in 1881. He was given as a journeyman corn miller aged 60 living in Mill Lane, St. Paul's with his wife Lucy (61) and daughters Alice B. (23), and Mary H. (16).


George & Joseph Bagshaw were listed in Eyre's Directory of 1883 as chemical manure manufacturers, Magdalen Gates, Magdalen Road.

Some meal was stolen in October 1883.


POLICE INTELLIGENCE.
SHIREHALL. - SATURDAY

Before the Rev. Sir W. VINCENT, Bart. (Chairman), F. A. MAGNAY, T. COZENS-HARDY, and R. G. LONGE, Esqs.
George Shorten, carter, in the employment of Messrs G. and J. Bagshaw, of Norwich, merchants, was charged under remand with stealing about 15 stone weight of barley meal and one sack, the property of his masters. - Mr. S. Linay appeared on behalf of the prosecution; Mr. J. C. Chittock watched the case on behalf of the landlord of the Blue Boar public-house at Sprowston. - Mr. Linay, in stating the facts of the case, said that although the value of the property was not large, his clients had reason to believe that they had for some time past been robbed to a considerable extent, and asked that the prisoner might be remanded that further enquiry could be made. It appeared from the evidence adduced, that the prisoner on the morning of Wednesday, the 10th inst., was sent from the prosecutor's mill at St. Augustine's, Norwich, to their farm at Sprowston with a waggon load of brewer's grains and three sacks full of barley meal, and on his way had to pass the Blue Boar public-house at Sprowston, where he stopped, and deposited one of the sacks of meal. On being apprehended, he said, "I know who has rounded on me; but I sold the meal to Mr. Chapman, the Landlord of the Blue Boar, for 7s. 6d." On this evidence Mr. Linay applied for a remand. - The prisoner desired the Bench to deal with the case without further delay. - After a short deliberation, the CHAIRMAN said that the application for a remand would be granted. - The prisoner applied for bail. - This Mr. Linay opposed, and the Bench refused it.
Norfolk Chronicle - 27th October 1883

POLICE INTELLIGENCE.
SHIREHALL. - SATURDAY

Before the Rev. Sir WM VINCENT, Bart. (Chairman), and R. B. LONG, T. COZENS-HARDY, Esqs., and Major CUBITT.
George Shorten, Labourer, Sprowston, was charged on remand with stealing 15 stone weight of meal, and one sack, value 16s., the property of Messrs. Bagshaw and Co., his masters, on the 10th of October. - Mr. S. Linay appeared to prosecute on behalf of the firm. - It will be remembered that the case was adjourned for further evidence. - J. Smith, Magpie-road, drayman in the employ of Messrs. Bullard and Sons, stated that on Wednesday morning, the 10th of October, he called at the Blue Boar Inn, Sprowston, where he saw prisoner with a waggon and two horses. The time was a little after eight. Witness also saw the prisoner take one of three full sacks off the waggon and carry it into the yard of the Blue Boar. Witness then entered the house, and was shortly afterwards followed by the prisoner. - Prisoner now stated that when he went into the Blue Boar Inn on the morning in question, Mr. Chapman, the landlord, asked him to leave one there. Prisoner replied that he would not do so, as there were too many "eyes" about. Chapman, however, pressed him on the point, and ultimately prisoner left one with him. - Mr. Andrews, of the firm of Bagshaw and Co., stated that the man had had a good character since he had been employed by them. On behalf of the firm, he hoped that the Bench would deal leniently with the case. Great losses, however, had been experienced by the firm by goods being taken. - The CHAIRMAN said that this was a serious case, as prisoner was in a position of trust, and had violated that trust. In consequence of the recommendation given by his employers, they had decided to lessen the penalty, and he would therefore be sentenced to six weeks' imprisonment.
Norfolk Chronicle - 3rd November 1883

Henry Andrews, partner to R. G. Bagshaw was living in the mill house in 1882, the year his daughter was born. Years later as Mrs. E. M. Clarke, she was able to provide a copy of the photo shown at the top of this page and recalled that the mill was steam driven and did not have any sails at the time she was born.
Henry Andrews was still residing in Mill House in 1883, the year George Bagshaw died.


DIED.

BAGSHAW. - November 29, suddenly, at his farm, Crostwick, George Bagshaw, St. Miles, Norwich, aged 74.
Eastern Daily Press - 30th November 1883

Re GEORGE BAGSHAW, Deceased.
Pursuant to the Act of Parliament of the 22nd and 23rd Vict. chap.35, entitled "An Act to further amend the Law of Property and to relieve Trustees,"
NOTICE is hereby given, that all persons having any claims against the Estate of GEORGE BAGSHAW. late of Pitt Street, in the City of Norwich, Merchant and Manufacturer, deceased, who died on the 29th day of November, 1883, at Crostwick, in the County of Norfolk, and whose Will was proved by Robert George Bagshaw, of the Crescent, in the City of Norwich, Paper Manufacturer, and Henry Andrews, of Magdalen Gates, in the said City of Norwich, Accountant, the Executors therein named, in the Principal Registry of the Probate Division of Her Majesty's High Court of Justice, on the 28th day of March, 1884, (the Right Honourable Sir James Hannen, Knight, the President of the said Probate Division, having on the 26th day of February, `1884, in an action then pending before him, entitled "Bagshaw and Another against Taney and others," pronounced for the force and validity of the said Will) are hereby required to send the particulars of such claims to the said Executors, at the Offices of their Solicitors, the undersigned Messieurs Sadd and Linay, on or before the 5th day of May next, at the expiration of which time the said Executors will proceed to distribute the assets of the said GEORGE BAGSHAW, deceased, amongst the persons entitled thereto, having regard only to the claims of which they shall then have had notice; and that the said Executors will not be liable for the assets so distributed or any part thereof to any person of whose claim they shall not then have had notice.
Dated this 3rd day of April, 1884

SADD AND LINAY
of Theatre Street, Norwich
Solicitors for the said Executors.
Norfolk Chronicle - 5th April 1884

The mill was shown on the 1884 map as disused. Henry Andrews was listed in White's Directory of 1886 as a manager, Mill House, Magdalen Street; G. and R. G. Bagshaw were listed as artificial manure manufacturers and poulterers, Magdalen Road and 150 Corn Exchange; G. & R. G. Bagshaw were listed as paper manufacturers, rag and metal merchants, and wholesale game and poultry dealers, St. Mile's Paper Mills, Coslany Street; Joseph Bagshaw was listed as a wholesale rag, bone, iron, metal, and skin merchant, poultry & game dealer, & pure malts & distilled vinegar maker. St. Stephen's Street & Coslany Street, home Surrey Grove; Robert George Bagshaw was listed as residing in The Crescent.


Robert George Bagshaw's son was married in September 1887.

MARRIAGES.

BAGSHAW - STIMPSON. - On the 8th inst., at the parish church, Alderford, by the Rev. W. L. Buckley, assisted by the Rev. M. J. Anderson, George Robert, son of R. G. Bagshaw, of this city, to Mary Charlotte, eldest daughter of B. Stimpson, of Alderford.
Norfolk Chronicle - 10th September 1887

Robert George Bagshaw was the owner of the Star Inn, 10 Haymarket, St. Peter Mancroft from 1890 and the licencee from the 10th October 1893 until the pub closed in 1894. At this time he was living in Newmarket Road.


The firm had moved to Haddiscoe by 1896 when the mills were for sale.


MAGDALEN GATES, Norwich
To Manure Manufacturers, Millwrights, Machinists, Builders and others

S. MEALING MILLS is instructed by Messrs G. & J. Bagshaw (who have removed their Works to Haddiscoe) to Sell by Auction without reserve on Tuesday, August 25th, 1896, the Valuable . . . MACHINERY . . . Coprolite Mill, Bone Mill . . .
BRICK TOWER MILL . . . LARGE RESIDENCE . . .
Catalogues may be obtained at the Offices of the Auctioneers, Orford Hill, Norwich.

Norfolk Chronicle - 15th & 22nd August 1896

Shortly after the auction the mill, of which the machinery had been dismantled some years before, was demolished, along with the other buildings, including the mill house. G. & R. G. Bagshaw continued to be listed in the trade directories until at least 1924.


Bagshaw & Andrews mill
Used for grinding bones for fertilizer
Mill and house demolished about 1896.

Eastern Evening News ? - 7th January 1955


O. S. Map 1884
O. S. Map 1884
Towermill site marked as Windmill (Disused) in centre
Postmill marked as Old Windmill centre top left
Courtesy of NLS map images

In 1851 Edward Reynolds was given as a miller aged 31 living at Bayfield Mill, St. James's with his wife Sarah (41), and daughters Ellen (10), Agnes (10), and Phillippe Sarah (2).


Bryant's map 1826: Windmill

Pigot's 1830: Arthur Bayfield, miller, St. Paul's also at Heigham Crook's Place towermill

Millard & Mannings Plan of the City of Norwich 1830: Windmill

1834: Arthur Bayfield, miller

c.1835: Steam Mill installed

O.S. map 1836: Windmill

1839: Arthur Bayfield, miller

1840: Arthur Bayfield, miller

February 1841: Mill advertised for sale by auction

March 1841: Mill advertised for sale by private contract

April 1841: Mill advertised to be let

Census 1841: Arthur Bayfield (40-44) miller
Sarah Bayfield (40-44) wife
Harriet Bayfield (11)
Mary Bayfield (10)
Address: Chapel Street, St. Stephen's

1842: Arthur Bayfield, miller

4th February 1842: Mill damaged in a gale

1844: Robert & Edward Leeds, millers

11th February 1845: Arthur Bayfield died aged 48

18th January 1845: Partnership between Robert & Edward Leeds, millers, dissolved

October 1846: Mill advertised for sale by auction

September 1846: Mill advertised for sale by private contract

February 1845: Mill advertised for sale by auction

1846: Edward Leeds, miller

1849: Edwards Reynolds, miller, bankrupt

1850: Edward Reynolds, miller

January 1850: Mill advertised for sale by auction

March 1850: Mill advertised for sale

Census 1851: Edward Reynolds (31) miller
Sarah Reynolds (41) wife
Agnes Reynolds (10)
Ellen Reynolds (10)
Phillippe Sarah Reynolds (2).
Address: Bayfield Mill, St. James's

August 1851: Mill advertised to be let

1854: Edward Sparks, miller

August 1854: Mill advertised to be let

June 1859: Mill advertised to be let

1863: Mill grinding bones for fertiliser

1863: John Andrews, miller in partnership with George Bagshaw

1864: John Andrews, miller in partnership with George Bagshaw

1865: John Andrews, miller in partnership with George Bagshaw

Morant's map 1873: Windmill

1880: Robert George Bagshaw, Mill Hill House

1882: Henry Andrews, Mill House

1883: Henry Andrews, Mill House

29th November 1883: George Bagshaw died aged 74

O.S. map 1884: Windmill (Disused)

August 1896: Mill without machinery advertised for sale by auction

c.1896: Mill and house demolished


If you have any memories, anecdotes or photos please let us know and we may be able to use them to update the site. By all means telephone 07836 675369 or

Nat Grid Ref TG23430986
 
-1815 to 1896
All historical material within this page
© Michael Roots & Jonathan Neville
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