Mackerel Fishing#
If you had been sitting out on St Catherine’s Down, overlooking Chale Bay, in May or early June, a hundred and fifty years or so ago, it’s quite likely that you’d be sitting there waiting for something…
The Mackerel Fishers (poem), 1886
Isle of Wight County Press - Saturday 06 November 1886
THE MACKEREL FISHERS.
May morn has come. A sunny day
Succeeds each hazy night.
Soft breezes o’er the water play
And ripple to the sight.
The wavelets lap the shingly shore
In gently murm’ring swell,
So look across the waters for
The playful mackerel.
In multitudes the silvery brood
Will visit strait or bay;
A lively throng, they search for food,
Or sport in finny play:
The surface blue they peep above,
Dart through the deep like light,
And make, as on their course they move,
A truly charming sight.
Run out the boat! Man every oar!
The simple net prepare!
Speed swiftly, swiftly from the shore!
Pull, mates—yet pull with care!
The net is shot; the boat wears round;
The fish are in the toils;
Row, row the gallant craft aground,
Then haul ashore the spoils!
Yo-ho! Heave-ho! an aiding hand
Each landsman lends in glee,
And soon upon the pebbly strand
A wondrous sight all see.
There, drawn from out the briny deep,
Promiscuously, pell-mell,
Lie leaping, gasping, in a heap,
The silvery mackerel.
The sunburnt, stalwart fishermen
Survey with open glee
The sight presented to their ken,—
This harvest of the sea;
For days of toil and long suspense
Repaid are now full well,
As sturdily they bear off hence
The silvery mackerel.
Chale, I.W. — G. A.
The Arrival of the Mackerel#
As the old reports would have it, the sea would turn an inky black with the arrival of large shoals of mackerel.
The mackerel arrive, all alivo, 18 May 1870
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 28 May 1870
BLACKGANG.
The mackerel season in the Isle of Wight, which is hailed with much delight by the fishermen, commenced at Blackgang on Saturday last, and since that many thousands of this favourite fish have been caught on the coast. The Chale bay mackerel have for many years been in great requisition in the south of England: in fact, Chale was the only part of this coast where they were caught until very recently, when a party of fishermen tried the experiment at Sandown. It proved successful, and since then large numbers have been caught there at different times, but the coast is not so well adapted for mackerel catching as at Blackgang, where the water is deep very close to the beach, and thus the mackerel come near shore to feed on the smaller fish. The shoals are quite distinguishable on the surface of the water, where they play in and out, which gives the spot the appearance of ink in the water. The number of fish in a shoal may be judged from the size and blackness of the spot. When the shoal is sufficiently near the beach, one end of a net is left on the shore and a boat with the remainder puts off, throwing the net overboard as they proceed, and make a complete circle round the shoal. Landing again they immediately commence to pull the net to shore, and unless it hangs in a rock and tears, or the fish are too sharp for them and escape before the circle is completed, a goodly number of fish, “all alivo,” reward the fishermen for their pains, and an uncommonly pretty sight it is as the fish are being taken out of the water. In the net they appear to be of all the colors of the rainbow.
A great need has been supplied at the back of the Island, viz., a resident agent for Lloyd’s. This coast is often visited with heavy storms of wind from the south-west, and wrecks are the frequent consequence, but until now there has been no one to act for the benefit of the owners of wrecked ships or for the underwriters nearer than Yarmouth or Cowes, and thus it has frequently happened that much valuable time has been lost before the arrival of the agent. We now understand that Messrs. Dabell and Son, of Blackgang Chine, have instructions to act as sub-agents for Mr. Day, of Cowes, who is agent for Lloyd’s and consulate of the Netherlands, Belgium, North Germany, France, &c.
In one year at least, it seems the mackerel were coming in particular close to the shore, and bringing sharks along in their wake:
Yarmouth - Saturday 21 June 1856
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 21 June 1856
The coast of the Solent have been visited within these last few weeks by immense shoals of mackerel, which are very seldom witnessed inside of the Isle of Wight. They come so close on shore that people would almost imagine that they could be easily caught in a small shrimping net. Fishermen about the neighbourhood appear to very negligent not to make an attempt to throw their nets, and in consequence the fishes have roving commission to go where they please. They are becoming more numerous along our shores every day, and there are in fact fish of all kinds paying a visit in the quiet waters of the Solent Channel; even the shark species are making themselves acquainted with this locality, and we are informed one of those savage monsters nearly bolted a man last week whilst bathing in Colwell Bay, but fortunately he made every possible speed and got away from him after having a great struggle with the brute by diving and dodging before he could make an escape to the shore.
In other years, it seems that porpoises would play along:
Porpoises coming along for the ride, May 1890
Isle of Wight County Press - Saturday 17 May 1890
An unusual spectacle was seen off Southsea Castle on Sunday evening, when a shoal of porpoises was observed disporting themselves as they were going out to sea with the running tide. As Southsea Esplanade was occupied by some thousands of promenaders, the porpoises were watched with the keenest interest. It is well known that porpoises follow in the wake of mackerel, and it is probable we shall hear of some heavy catches in neighbouring waters.
Each year, beginning as early as the start of May, the first catch of the mackerel season would be announced in the local newspapers, often with an indication of the size of the catch and the prices returned:
An early start to the season? 01 May 1879
Isle of Wight Times - Thursday 01 May 1879
Ventnor
On Friday about 4,000 mackerel were landed from a fishing smack at Ventnor.
Shoals of Mackerel, 03 May 1879
Isle of Wight Journal - Saturday 03 May 1879
Ventnor
SHOALS OF MACKEREL.— This week there have been a great many shoals of mackerel in the English channel, and some thousands have been caught by fishing boats and landed here, to be retailed at four and six a shilling. Many more have been landed at other towns, so that the catch must have been a very large one,
Mackerel Season Begins, 03 May 1890
Isle of Wight County Press - Saturday 03 May 1890
Ventnor
The Mackerel Season— so far as concerns the Undercliff, may be said to have commenced on Monday, when the first fishing logger to touch at Ventnor came in with several hundred fine mackerel, which were retailed at four shilling. The day was gloriously fine, and if this weather continues it augurs well for the fishery.
Landing Mackerel the First Time This Year, 18 May 1889
Isle of Wight Journal - Saturday 18 May 1889
Ventnor
MACKEREL have been landed at Ventnor within the last day or two for the first time this season. The hawked price is four a shilling!
A good harvest of mackerel, 20 May 1874
Hampshire Advertiser - Wednesday 20 May 1874
VENTNOR, May 20.
…
Mackerel.— At Chale during the past few days there have been large draughts of mackerel, and the fishermen have been reaping a good harvest. We are informed, too, that at Sandown about 10,000 heads of mackerel were caught on Friday night.
Extraordinary Catch of Mackerel, 20 May 1882
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 20 May 1882
YARMOUTH.
Extraordinary Catch of Mackerel at Compton Bay. — On Monday afternoon last a very large haul of mackerel was made by the Hayters, of Brooke, in Compton Bay. The fish were very fine, and numbered about 6,000. This must be a capital “take” for the men, who, we understand, have not done much in their line during the past winter.
A good harvest of mackerel, 23 May 1874
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 23 May 1874
VENTNOR
…
At Chale, during the past few days, there have been large draughts of mackerel, and the fishermen have been reaping a good harvest. At Sandown, about 10,000 mackerel were caught on Friday night, so it was reported. …
Mackarel in Atherfield - Saturday 27 May 1837
Hampshire Independent - Saturday 27 May 1837
We have had a plentiful supply of Mackarel this week from the neighbourhood of Atherfield, which, considering the commencement of the season, have been retailed out at the reasonable price of four for a shilling.
Reports from 1862 give a sense of the length of the season, which in this case appears to have been cut short by a change in the weather:
Ventnor - Saturday 24 May 1862
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 24 May 1862
Large quantities of mackerel have made their appearance off here during the past week. The fishermen succeeded in capturing several large shoals. Many the fish were forwarded inland, and sold readily at five a shilling. Throughout the week large hauls have rewarded the fishermen of Niton, Chale, and vicinity.
Ventnor - Thursday 29 May 1862
Isle of Wight Times - Thursday 29 May 1862
Mackerel.— Large quantities of these fish have been caught off the back of the Island during the last week. It is stated that up to Monday evening not less than 20,000 mackerel had been hauled ashore at Chale Bay and Atherfield alone, realising something like £200.
The end of the season, Ventnor - Saturday 14 June 1862
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 14 June 1862
The present unseasonable weather, and the S.W. winds, have put an end to the mackerel catching in Chale Bay, which is rather an unfortunate occurrence, as never during the memory that undisputed authority the oldest inhabitant, have there been known so many fish to be caught; but we fear it is all over for this season.
In years where the season was late to start, the sense of anticipation that must have been felt is evident:
Awaiting the mackerel, Saturday 28 May 1870
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 28 May 1870
SANDOWN
Mackerel Fishing.—By this time last year we had the pleasure of announcing the arrival in our bay of some pretty strong shoals of mackerel, and very welcome visitors they were considered by all parties. For this past week or two our bay fishermen have been on the alert for their re-appearance, but unfortunately without success up to the present. One or two shoals have been sighted, but yet they have testified no inclination to make a stay in the bay. However, there is time for them yet, and we are sure when they do come our fishermen will welcome them with a “come as often as you like, and stay as long as you like.”
Chale Bay, Saturday 30 May 1840
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 30 May 1840
Twenty-five thousand horse mackerel were caught in Chale Bay on Friday last. This species of fish has not been too plentiful here for years past.
The first catch of the season, 01 June 1878
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 01 June 1878
Ventnor.
The first catch of mackerel of the present season was taken last Wednesday morning.
Atherfield Bay - Saturday 04 June 1853
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 04 June 1853
Immense quantities of mackerel have been caught off the back of the island during the week. On Saturday last, the first shoal came in, and in one haul 25 cwt. were taken, and they were cried in the various towns during the morning of Sunday. Good prices are obtained, five for a shilling.
Ventnor Reporter, Saturday 04 June 1853
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 04 June 1853
A considerable quantity of mackerel hare been caught near Black-gang. On Monday, about 1500; on Tuesday, about 3000 at one haul, they were very fine, and were sold in Ventnor at eight and ten for a shilling.
Large captures of Mackerel, 23 June 1883
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 23 June 1883
SANDOWN, June 23.
…
Mackerel.— Within the last few days there have been large captures of mackerel in Chale Bay and at various other points on the coast. On Tuesday the fishermen of Sandown had a fine catch of the shiny fish in the well-known bay.
The Business of Selling Fish#
To sell the fish, catches were often transported for sale in Newport, although in the 1830s at least, Cowes seems to have been lacking an outlet for the fish:
Newport, Saturday 30 May 1840
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 30 May 1840
On Saturday morning last several waggons and carts came into our town laden with mackerel, two fishermen named Bright and Wheeler, having caught upwards of 25,000 on the preceding evening in Chale Bay. At first they were sold at a penny each, but, by the middle of the day, two dozen could be obtained for a shilling, and towards the evening three dozen a shilling.
Cowes, Saturday 10 June 1837
Hampshire Independent - Saturday 10 June 1837
We have this week had a large and cheap supply of excellent mackerel, a great quantity having been taken at the back of the Island; it is surprising no one sees the opening there is in this town for a fish shop.
In 1860, cries of “Mackerel, O” could be heard in Newport, whilst the haymakers appeared to be “making hay”!
Newport - Saturday 07 July 1860
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 07 July 1860
…
Mackerel — The sober folks of Newport were startled out of their proprietor on Sunday evening last, at hearing the cry “Mackerel, O” shouted through the streets. It appears a large quantity was brought into town at about 6 o’clock, and were soon sold off at eight the shilling. More have been brought in during the week.
…
Hay Making.—The old story “Make your hay while the sun shines,” has been forceably brought memory during the past week. The propitious weather has set every one, who has a field, hay making. The crops is spoken of as abundant. Should we be favoured with another week of fine weather the crops will be beautifully got in.
Newport - Saturday 07 July 1860
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 09 June 1860
Mackerel.— During the week and the latter part of last week we were pleasingly surprized to hear the once well-known cry of “Mackerel, O.” Large draughts of this favourite fish have been taken at the back of the Wight, and great quantities have been despatched to the London markets. Those brought into Newport found ready purchasers at three and four a shilling. It is some years since such a supply has been taken in our waters.
With the advent of the railways, Island fish would find a ready market in London:
London pricing, 04 June 1864
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 04 June 1864
Ventnor
…
Quantities of mackerel have been brought in here during the last fortnight, which have been retailed to the public at three and four a shilling, the boats demanding 30s., 28s., and not less than 25s. This is a great contrast to the prices realized at St. Ive’s, in Cornwall, where large fish have been fetching but 4s. the long hundred; the difference in price being the closer proximity of those caught here to the London markets.
As well as Island fishermen, crews from along the south coast, and in particular, from Brighton, could also be seen hauling in the fish:
Niton - Saturday 18 May 1861
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 18 May 1861
On Sunday and Monday several mackerel boats from Brighton were at the back of the Island, and caught a considerable quantity of fish which were of good size, and sold at a remarkable price, three for a shilling.
Ventnor - Saturday 08 June 1861
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 08 June 1861
A considerable quantity of fine mackerel have been caught by the Brighton fishing boats off the back of the Island, which have been retailed at three and four a shilling, and many have been taken to Portsmouth and forwarded London.
Sandown - Saturday 08 June 1861
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 08 June 1861
This town during the past week has worn an unusual aspect, and in the absence of regular visitors has been very lively. Its population is quite heterogeneous, as will be seen by the enumeration. Some days there were nearly a score Brighton mackerel boats in the Bay, with a steamer in attendance to buy up the produce, in case of a good haul, and to convey the same to Portsmouth; so there were often many of that peculiar race of fishermen ashore. Then there are the Isle of Wight Militia here for their drill. Last, but not least, the navvies who work at the fort. If variety be charming, we have it here; but the place is orderly. The passing and repassing of the additional coaches and omnibuses give us the appearance, without the reality, of summer.
Newport - Saturday 31 May 1862
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 31 May 1862
The Mackerel Season.—Throughout the whole extent of the back of the Island there have been large draughts of fish during the week, but more particularly in Atherfield and Sandown Bays. A Brighton boat had more than 20,000 in one haul, and the bulk of the catches was despatched, per steamer in waiting, to Portsmouth for the London and other markets. Prices ruled from five to eight a-shilling retail.
On occasion, the size of the catch would also be reported more widely.
Good catches in Chale Bay, 27th May 1913
Lancashire Evening Post - Tuesday 27 May 1913
Widely syndicated: e.g. in Hampshire Independent - Saturday 31 May 1913, Exmouth Journal - Saturday 31 May 1913
BIG HAULS OF MACKEREL.
The mackerel fishing season off the Isle of Wight was opened with remarkable catches. Trawling in Chale Bay, the Sandown fishermen have netted no fewer than 18,000, which have been taken direct to Portsmouth. A message received at Sandown, yesterday, stated that the Chale fishermen had come ashore with a 20,000 catch.
Perhaps counter-intuitively, if the hauls were large, fish might be returned to the sea rather than depress prices on individual items in a catch.
Mackerel in Ventnor, but not Chale? 23 June 1888
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 23 June 1888
VENTNOR
MACKEREL—Large quantities of mackerel have been caught off here during the past week, consequently the price has been much lower than usual, the fish having been procurable for 10 and 12 a shilling, the usual price being four a shilling. It is considered cheap if the fish can be obtained at 2d. each. Many of the catches have purchased by Frampton and Sons, fishmongers, who have despatched some thousands to Newport, Cowes, &c. The local boatmen and fishermen have also engaged in these mackerel speculations, purchasing from the Channel boats as brought in. This, together with Messrs. Frampton’s enterprise, has combined to reduce the price of mackerel this season. It is remarkable that none of the fish have yet been caught in Chale Bay this year, as usually large numbers of shoals are netted here. This is attributed to the to the (sic) comparatively cold whether (sic), which tends to keep the fish at sea. The shoals are getting closer this week, as on Tuesday night the boats caught their fish only several miles from shore, whereas they have been casting their nets halfway across the Channel.
Isle of Wight, Saturday 24 June 1837
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 24 June 1837
We have had a larger supply of mackerel from the back of the Wight this season, than has been known for some years past, and during one hall the fishermen intentionally let about 20,000 escape, stating their reason for so doing— that they should have to sell them proportionally cheaper, therefore they would be of no advantage to them.
Hay-making is now pretty general in this neighbourhood, and the swoaths are heavy. The wheat, barley and oats also look well.
The market could also be affected by other matters. The loss of HMS Eurydice in March 1878, with the loss of almost all her crew, seems to have tainted the local desire, at least, to reap the piscine harvest of sea.
Tainted supply? 08 June 1878
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 08 June 1878
A New Drawback to the Fishmonger. — The recent melancholy accidents which have caused so many corpses to be floating in these waters have created in some minds an unconquerable aversion to fish, which are just now very numerous. The whole of the finny tribe, and the crustaceous, such as crabs, lobsters, shrimps, &c,, are credited with making many a good meal on the body of submerged sailors. We have no doubt that such is the case, and that the dreadfully mutilated state of the bodies washed on shore is due to their depredations, so that there is some cause for the prejudice to which we have referred. At all events a man who was crying Chale Bay mackerel this week soon altered his cry when he found how scarce his customers were. An amusing incident is said to have occurred the other day. An old lady was cheapening some “Chale Bay” mackerel with a street fish-monger, when a woman passed by, and noticing the lady handling the fish, observed, “Oh ma’am, I wouldn’t have none of them fish if I was you. Last night my husband bought one, and when we cut it open we found two brass buttons and a piece of blue serge inside it.” The old lady dropped the fish as quickly as if it had been a hot potato, and incontinently fled. What the fish hawker said to the woman who had lost him his customer our deponent sayeth not— but it was doubtless something kind and complimentary.
As well as the mackerel fishing, the Island also supported a trade in shell-fish, although a bad year for one might also indicate a bad year for the other:
Our Fisheries - Saturday 18 May 1861
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 18 May 1861
A great deal has been said and written of late years about our fisheries; not only in animadversion of the pollution of rivers to the destruction of freshwater fish; of the obstructions placed by cupidity in the way of the migration and consequent propagation of salmon; but also of the non-development of our deep-sea fisheries. We simply intend to localise the subject, and bring a few facts before the notice of our readers; it has more interest than at first sight appears. For ages, the Isle of Wight has been celebrated for the quantity and quality of its shell-fish, especially crabs and lobsters, which afford a source of livelihood to scores of families and of luxury to the well-to-do. Last year, owing to the cold weather, those fish would not come into shallow water spawn amongst the extensive bed of rocks stretching from Bembridge Ledge to Rockenend; consequently, the “take” of the whole season scarcely amounted to that usually taken at one tide. The great prawn ground at Bembridge was almost forsaken from the like cause; and the accustomed shoals of mackerel at the “back of the Island” were also minus. It is easy, then, to imagine that a considerable amount of distress was engendered by these combined failures, which must have fallen very heavily upon a deserving and industrious race of men. But Coventry weavers and Syrian murderers monopolised all the charity, and our native fishermen tided over a terrible winter as they could; and we are interested to know what are their prospects of the present year. As far as it as gone they are bad; for cold weather again prevails. So crustaceous fish keep out in deep water where they cannot be taken; and, up to the day we write, not a single shoal of mackerel has come up, though we have reached Whitsuntide, whereas, in more favorable times, between Easter and Whitsuntide hundreds of pounds’ worth have been taken and sent to the London and local markets. Thus, at one blow, the public is deprived of excellent articles of diet, and lots of families are deprived of their sole source of income. We are not aware that any steps can be taken remedy this state of things; but we are of opinion that deep-sea fishing is sadly neglected around our immediate coast, and a great mine of wealth is thus left untouched. This opinion is not the result of guess work, but is based upon our experience of what is done occasionally when a yachtsman choose for sport to cast a net; for we have known almost miraculous draughts of fishes taken on such occasions. Moreover, as our Channel is replenished twice every twenty-four hours from the Atlantic Ocean, doubtless no amount of fishing would lessen the supply. Of course we are aware that the capital at the disposal of our present fishermen is of too limited a nature to enable them to embark in an undertaking of this character, as it would require vessels of great tonnage and nets of considerable size. The subject is of national importance, and it opens a speculation for joint-stock companies of far more legitimate kind than many now entered upon. Simultaneously with the neglect of this branch of fishing, another branch, the supply of which is limited, is worked almost to destruction; namely, that of oyster dredging. Our chief oyster ground is of small extent, and is comprised between Ryde and Cowes, and formerly was dredged by fishermen living about the spot; but within the last few years it is nothing unusual to see daily during the season a fleet of 50 or 60 vessels fishing over the ground, and the produce they obtain is sent to be laid down at Colchester and other favoured spots, including the Seine. Our native fishermen assure us that this over-working of the beds must soon prove destructive to the fish, the more especially as the “foreigners” (as all strangers are called) secure the young ones which used to be always thrown back for another year. As the whole subject of our fisheries is now being dealt with by a legislative enactment, we throw out these few hints so as to enable Mr. Clifford to judge whether the matter is worthy of his consideration or not; but this we can assure him, it is one deeply concerning many of his constituents.
A poor season, 15 July 1922
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 15 July 1922
BAD MACKEREL SEASON
Reviewing the fishing season in the Southern Sea Fisheries District during the quarter, Captain A. F. Masters, the chief fishery officer for the district, reports that for mackerel it was one of the worst seasons on record. Trawling showed an improvement when :the’ weather was favourable, except in the Solent where it met with poor results.
Crab and lobster potting was very good, and fair prices were realised, while prawning was about the average throughout the whole district, and in the Solent above the average. Shrimp trawling in the Solent is described as having been very poor, and is attributable to the presence of oil on the water by the shores.
A Dangerous Business?#
Although not subjected to the trials of deep sea fishing, mackerel fishing was not without its own attendant risks:
Man overboard, June 1873
Hampshire Advertiser - Wednesday 18 June 1873
MACKEREL.— Many thousands of mackerel have been taken in Chale Bay during the last twelve days. We regret to hear that a man named Sprake, of Chale, who had been engaged in fishing, fell overboard, off Freshwater Gate, about 6 p.m. on Sunday, and was drowned.
Fatal Boat Accident, June 1873
Isle of Wight Times - Thursday 12 June 1873
FRESHWATER.
A FATAL BOAT ACCIDENT— occurred at Freshwater Gate, on Sunday evening, one life being sacrificed. These men had come from Chale to Freshwater Gate with a cargo of mackerel, and after disposing of their fish were returning home, when something wrong occurred to the sails, and one of the men named Charles Sprake, of Chale, went up the mast to put it right and overbalanced the boat, which immediately capsized, carrying the poor man with it, and he was never seen to rise. The others were saved by the prompt assistance of the coastguards stationed at the Gate. The body has not been recovered.
A timely rescue, June 1885
Isle of Wight County Press - Saturday 13 June 1885
A TIMELEY RESCUE— A fisherman named Sothcott, who had been out in the bay mackerel fishing on Tuesday evening, was compelled to row back in consequence of the wind having fallen. He therefore came along close to the shore, and when near the Culver Cliff, he saw a young man struggling in the water and managed to rescue him. He brought him in in an unconscious state to the King’s Head Hotel, where he afterwards recovered. The young man who was thus so providentially saved, is said to be a visitor stopping at Ryde, and to have been attempting to walk round the cliff by the shore when he was carried away by the tide.
Extraordinary rescue from drowning, June 1885
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 13 June 1885
EXTRAORDINARY RESCUE FROM DROWNING AT THE CULVER CLIFFS.
On Tuesday evening, a young boatman of Sandown, named Harry Sothcott, was rounding the Culver’s in a boat, having been mackerel fishing all day, and when between the “Shag Rock,” and the “White Horse,” his attention was attracted by a sound resembling the groans of a human being in distress. Rowing close under the cliffs, the groans became more and more distinct, and carefully scanning the rocks at the foot of the cliffs, he descried a human hand clinging to a rock. Sothcott called out cheerily to the man to try and keep afloat until he could reach him with the boat; but he appeared too exhausted to make any effort, and letting go his hold upon the rock, disappeared beneath the water, rising to the surface about 15 yards from the boat. At this critical moment, Sothcott came alongside and seized hold of the drowning man’s fingers a foot or so below the water, and with great effort got him into his boat. The young man was completely insensible, and all efforts to restore him which were made by his rescuer appeared to be of no avail. Under these discouraging circumstances, Sothcott made the best of his way towards home, and on reaching the Redcliffe Battery fortunately obtained the assistance of a soldier to help him in rowing to Sandown; on arrival at which place, the sufferer was taken to the King’s Head Hotel, where every means of resuscitation were resorted to, and happily proved so far successful as to enable his being placed in bed and restoratives administered. In the morning he was so far recovered as to enable him to proceed to Ryde, from whence he came. It appeared the young gentleman had foolishly attempted to pass round the Culvers to Whitecliff (at all times a most perilous proceeding,) and had become baffled by the rising tide. Hemmed in by the tide, which was just at the turn, he appears to have scrambled from rock to rock, and over the huge boulders which lie at the foot of the cliffs covered with sea-weed, rendering progress, at any time, next to impossible, but trebly so at the time of tide when the rash young man essayed the attempt. In this position, we are told, he remained for fully two hours, totally beyond any chance of making his position known or prospect of accidental discovery and rescue except from a boat passing close to the cliffs, which may be regarded as a rare occurrence at this time of the year; and had it not been for the almost miraculous appearance of young Sothcott’s boat in that little-frequented spot, the fate of the unfortunate young man would have been decided in a few minutes, as he had already twice disappeared beneath the waters, and was sinking a third time when Sothcott’s attention was attracted to the spot. The agony both mental and physical which the young man must have gone through during that awful two hours’ fight for life can be better imagined than described.
On the Highway#
On a couple of occasions, it also seems as if there were risks associated with transporting the mackerel along the road to Newport.
Serious accident on the road, July 1869
Hampshire Advertiser - Wednesday 07 July 1869
THE ISLE OF WIGHT
…
Serious Accident on the Road. — On Saturday, between 12 and 1 o’clock, Mrs. Heal, whose husband resides at Chale and is engaged in the mackerel fishery, was driving a pony in a light market van towards Newport, and when close by Cox’s-corner, in the parish of Gatcombe, where the highway is very narrow, she met a waggon and horses coming from Newport at a dangerous pace. She became alarmed at the danger, and was in the act of turning the pony to draw up under the hedge or turn back, when the waggon shaft caught the pony and threw him down. The poor woman was thrown out and her arm was broken; one of the pony’s fore legs and his snout were broken by the waggon wheels, and the van was smashed. An end was quickly put to the pony’s sufferings, and Mr. R. Urry, of Hilt Farm, Gatcombe, carefully took Mrs. Heal to her home at Chale, where she was attended by Mr. Homan, surgeon, of Niton. She now lies dangerously ill. The team belonged to Mr. Morgan, of Roslin Farm, near Chillerton. It is said that the horses were very fresh, and the man in charge had lost control over them.
…
Travelling without lights, June 1896
Isle of Wight County Press - Saturday 27 June 1896
ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS
George Dennis, of Ventnor, who was not present, was charged with using a carriage at night without a light.—P.C. Edwards said that about 10.30 on the evening of Sunday, the 14th inst., he was in Belgrave-road, Ventnor, when he saw defendant in charge of a horse and cab without a light. Defendant was driving furiously at the time. Witness called to him and he eventually stopped. When asked where his lights were defendant said he did not require any. He knew they could not hurt him, as a case tried at Newport had failed.—Fined 2s. 6d. and 9s. costs.—George Whittingstall, of Ryde, who was also absent, was similarly summoned.—P.S. Eldridge deposed to seeing defendant driving a horse attached to a carriage without a light at Palmers Brook, towards Ryde, at 10.45 on the 15th inst. Defendant said he came away from home suddenly without preparing for the lighting of his lamps, having brought no candles with him.—He was fined 2s. 6d. and 9s. costs, the Chairman remarking that the penalty was small, as at present the Bench did not think the Act was sufficiently known, but afterwards it would be different.—Henry Wolfe, dealer, of Newport, who was charged with a similar offence, said he had some glow-worms on his trap; he did not know whether they would call them lights or not (laughter).—P.C. Rampton said that about 10.30 p.m. on the 15th instant he was on the highway at Calbourne, when he saw defendant drawing a pony attached to a cart without a light. Witness stopped him and told him it was time his lamps were alight, and defendant replied “I know; but I have none to light.” Witness told him he should report the matter.—Defendant: I showed you the glow-worms, didn’t I? (laughter).—Witness: You showed me some empty boxes.—The Chairman: Had he got lamps with him?—Witness: No, sir.—Defendant: My pony shies at a lamp.—Witness added that defendant was driving very slowly.—Defendant said he started from home about 2 p.m. with a load of mackerel and trade being very bad he did not sell out before 9 o’clock. He then gave the pony a feed and came gently home. It was quite moonlight. His pony would not go if he had lights; it would keep shying and jumping into the hedge. If he had to have lights he would have to get a fresh horse, and he hoped the gentlemen on the Bench would buy him one (laughter).—The Chairman: The law says you are bound to carry lights.—Defendant said he could not afford to come there to part with his money, as he had a large wife and a small family to keep (laughter).—The Chairman said defendant would be fined 1s. and 9s. costs.—Defendant: How long will you give to pay? A month?—The Chairman: You will have a week.
Leaving mackerel on the highway, September 1912
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 14 September 1912
I.W. COUNTY BENCH.
Newport, on Saturday, before Admiral Sir Algernon de Horsey, K.C.B., and full Bench.
MACKEREL IN THE ROAD.
George Hayden and Bran Loosemore, boatmen, of Shanklin, defended by Mr. J. Marab, were charged with leaving mackerel on the highway to the annoyance of passengers.
P.C. Shutter said on the morning of the 27th ult., he found mackerel scattered about on the road and the hedges from Shide to Hale Common, and the stench from them was abominable. They were removed by the sanitary inspector. Defendants said they had too many to take home, and they throw them over the hedge between Arreton and Hale Common. One or two might have fallen into the highway.
Mr. Marsh submitted that the case had not been proved against defendants, who, however, were each fined 2s. 6d. and 4s. costs.
Encounters With the Law#
As well as court appearances for infractions along the highway, the business of actually selling the mackerel could also lead to the stand.
Fraudulent fish sales, May 1864
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 21 May 1864
COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS.
SATURDAY.—Before Admiral Sir A. S. Hamond, bart. (chairman), and. W. G. Shedden, Mayor.
William Jones, a child of 11 years of age, was charged by James Netten, fishmonger, West Cowes, with embezzlement.—The prosecutor said that the prisoner was in his employ, and it was his duty go round and receive orders. That on the morning of the 2nd of May he sent him with six mackerel over to Sir Trevor Wheeler’s, Tower-hill House, East Cowes Park, as on the previous week the prisoner had told him that his aunt was come there as a cook, and that the family would be there on Monday, and that he had to go on Monday morning for orders. On the Monday morning he sent six mackerel to see if they would like to have them. At half-past 12 o’clock he came back and said they liked them very much, and he was to send up six more, which he gave him and he took them away. About 1 o’clock he returned and said he had cleaned them. On the morning of the 6th he went there himself, and found it shut up, and a board to let put up. He made enquiries and found no such person, neither had the house been let. The prisoner had told him that they would pay the 1st every month. On the afternoon of the 6th the prisoner was brought up to his house in the custody of the police, and he asked him what he had done with the fish he had taken away, and told him to tell the truth, but held out neither promise nor threat to him. The prisoner said he sold six fish to Mr. Young for 1s., and the other six to Mr. Harris.—Examined Mr. Hooper, who appeared for the prisoner: It was not until Friday that he went to the house. He saw two women there cleaning the house, who wets sent by Mr. Furner. The house had not been let. He knew the women were no relation to the prisoner. He had never said that, if his mother gave him anything, he would abandon the prosecution.—Mr. Hooper addressed the Bench on behalf of the prisoner. He said the lad went to the house as he was instructed, and found the two women there, who took in the fish; and gave him the order to bring more, and supplied the order.— The Bench, however, in expressing sorrow for a child of his tender age to be charged with such an offence, sentenced him to six weeks’ imprisonment, with such hard labour befitting his age.—Besides the above, he appears have got rid of much more in the same way: on the 3rd of May, 100 prawns, eight pounds of salmon, and one lobster; on the 4th, one pair of soles and 100 prawns; on the 6th, one turbet and one lobster.
Hawking perishable commodities, June 1858
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 05 June 1858
Ryde
We have always considered the question of hawking a very difficult one to deal with; and it is strongly illustrated in Ryde at the present time. A fortnight ago the Commissioners prosecuted several parties for hawking perishable commodities; the consequence is, that vessels have since arrived loaded with mackerel, and the greater part of the cargoes brought on shore has spoiled. Here, then, is the anomoly of a good demand and a good supply, with the natural mode of distribution so interfered with as to neutralise both. The same may be said, with regard to other articles.
Selling Mackerel Without a Ticket, May 1876
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 27 May 1876
RYDE PETTY SESSIONS
BOROUGH COURT
Monday. Before the Mayor (B. Barrow, Esq.), A. F. Leeds, Esq., George Rendall, Esq., H. D. Brown, Esq., and Gen. Jeffreys.
…
SELLING FISH WITHOUT A MARKET TICKET.
Henry William Frampton, fishmonger, of Castle-street, was summoned for exposing fish for sale in High-street, without taking a ticket.— Mr. T. White defended.
P.C Burton deposed that on Saturday, the 12th, about a quarter to 9pm, he saw defendant hawking fish in the High-street, and asked him if he had a ticket. He said, “I forgot to get a ticket.” To a boy who was standing by he said, “Run down and get two tickets.” Shortly before 10 he saw defendant again, and asked him if he had a ticket. He said, “No, Mr. Buckett was not in.” I told him he ought to get tickets the same as other people.
Cross-examined by Mr. White.— He had a large quantity of mackerel. He had been there some time selling the mackerel when I saw him.
Henry Buckett said he was market-keeper, and knew Frampton. He did not take a market ticket on Saturday week. Witness was not from home that evening. He stood at the Town-hall door from half-past 7 till half-past 10. The room was let. Anybody could have got a ticket who applied for it.
Mr. White, in defence, contended that this was a very hard case. The defendant was a fish salesman, and it happened that on this particular evening he had some mackerel unexpectedly sent from over the water. As the Bench were aware, mackerel was a fish which would not keep long, and he immediately went to that part of the town where these fish were regularly sold— the top of High-street. He forgot to take a ticket, but the policeman reminding him he had not done so, he immediately sent a boy for one, who could not get it. What was he to do? Was he to stop selling the fish and allow them to perish? Under the old regulations he believed there was an exception made in favour of mackerel, because it was such a perishable fish, and its ready sale was considered such a benefit to the poorer classes. He contended the defendant had done no harm but that he had really greatly benefitted the public, and under the exceptional circumstances he had alluded to did not deserve punishment.
The Mayor said that other fishmongers came and got tickets on the evening alluded to, and defendant could have done the same, and they had the evidence of Buckett that he had not been away from the Town-hall all the evening.
Defendant was fined 1s., and costs.
There was a second charge against the defendant of obstructing the High-street, at the same time and place.
P.S. Hinks said that at 7.55 he saw the defendant in High-street, opposite Mr. Keet’s shop. Told him to go on further and not stand in one place so long. He had a barrow with him and a truck. He again saw defendant in the same place and spoke to him again. Instead of moving on, he told a young man named Penfold to draw some trucks by the side of his barrow. He created a great obstruction, and people had to go off the pavement to get round. If defendant had not placed his truck there the road would not have been obstructed.
Mr. White said that the bye-law under which these proceedings were taken stated that defendant was not to wait about longer than was necessary for loading and unloading. In this case the defendant only stayed while he was unloading. He had not unloaded his cart of his fish, and when he had he went away. As for the crowd, that was caused by the joy of the people at seeing such a fine lot of mackerel come into the town. Mr. Keet (opposite whose shop defendant had stopped) was asked by defendant whether he objected to his remaining there. He said, “Oh no; glad to see you there, and hope you will sell your fish.”
Defendant was fined 6d., and costs.
Selling Mackerel in the Street, May 1876
Isle of Wight Times - Thursday 25 May 1876
RYDE BOROUGH POLICE COURT
Saturday.— Before the Mayor (Ald. Barrow), Major-Gen. Jeffreys, Major Leeds, G. Rendall, Esq., and H. D. Browne, Esq.
…
SELLING MACKEREL IN THE HIGH STREET WITHOUT A TICKET
Henry William Frampton, fishmonger, Castle Street, was charged with unlawfully offering and exposing for sale certain marketable things in High Street, that not being the Market Place.—Mr. White appeared for the defence.—P.C. Burton deposed that on Saturday the 13th, at 8.45 p.m., he saw defendant hawking mackerel in High Street, and asked if he had a ticket. Defendant said he forgot to get one—and, to a boy standing by he said “Run down and get two tickets.” About 6 minutes to 10 he asked if he had got those tickets, and he said “No; Mr. Buckett wasn’t in.” Told him he ought to have tickets the same as the other men.—Henry Buckett deposed that he was Market-keeper. On Saturday week defendant did not take a market-ticket. Was not from home that evening, but stood at the Town Hall doors from 7.30 to 10 10, the Hall being let. Anyone could have got a ticket from him—in fact he served some with tickets for fish at 8 30 —By Mr. White: The market gates were closed; the Act compelled him to close them at 8 p.m.—Mr. White, in addressing the Court, said he was induced to appear as the case was an extremely hard one on defendant, a very respectable young man, and a ratepayer of the borough. On the day in question a quantity of mackerel was sent him from Portsmouth, which, as a duty to himself, and a great benefit to the public, he immediately proceeded to sell, going to the top of High Street, where for many years fish had been sold on Saturday nights. The market was closed, and was he to allow the fish to perish? Under the old law there was always a very good exception, and selling mackerel on Sundays was allowed, the fish being perishable, and the sale being considered such a benefit, especially to the poor. He could not sell in the market, and whilst the Counsell allowed tickets for selling elsewhere to be issued, it appeared to him that the man had committed no offence. He had no ticket at the moment—didn’t know the fish were coming. Even a ticket would not legalise the matter. The Corporation ought not to have moved in the matter. He remembered the Council resolving that there should be no proceedings taken in the case of fish hawking.—The Mayor: No corporation, or any body of men, have power to alter an Act of Parliament—can’t make bye-laws which contravene the Act.—Mr. White: But they would act wisely if they didn’t strain the law too much in matters of this sort.—The Mayor said that other persons with mackerel went and paid a penny, as defendant should have done. The object of having the penny tickets taken out was for the protection of the public—so that no improper persons, or improper food should be taken round the town. Defendant knew he was doing what was illegal, having had tickets before.—Fined 1s. and costs.
OBSTRUCTING PASSENGERS BY SELLING THE SAID FISH
Henry William Frampton was further charged with unlawfully, to the obstruction of passengers, causing two barrows to stand in High Street longer than necessary for loading or unloading goods on the 13th.—Sergt. Hincks deposed that about 7.55 p.m. on Saturday, the 13th, he saw defendant with a barrel and barrow in High Street, opposite Mr. Keet’s shop. Told him to go on farther, and not stand in one place so long. He said he should move on presently. About 8.15 he saw him at the same place, and again spoke to him. Instead of moving, he told another “chap” named Penfold to draw some trucks up alongside the barrow. There he remained till 9 o’clock, causing an obstruction. The barrow was close by the pavement, and people had to go off the pavement on the road to pass.—By Mr. White: Defendant didn’t say the barrow was broken down. Didn’t know that it was. 30 or 40 people were standing round.—Mr. White addressed the Court for the defence. Mr. Frampton informed him that his barrow was so laden that it broke down. The words of the Act were “longer than necessary for loading or unloading.” Until defendant had sold out, he had not unladen them. As he was fined in the first case, he hoped a little mercy would be shown and no fine imposed in this. The obstruction was caused by the joy of the people—not by defendant.—The Mayor said that in this case they inflicted only a very slight fine, 6d. and costs, but they wished it to be a warning to defendant and others.
Differences in understanding between the old traditions and the law could also lead to a court appearance.
An early start, June 1876
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 17 June 1876
NEWPORT
COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS.
Saturday.— Before Sir H. Percy Gordon, Bart, (chairman), J. Coape, Esq., Admiral Crazier, Lieut.-Colonel Atherley, C. Brett, Esq., Capt. Lowther, and Capt. Young.
Charles Mursell, fisherman and landlord of the Commercial Inn, Bembridge, was summoned for having his house open during prohibited hours.
Mr. F. Blake appeared for the defendant.
P.C. Early, stationed at Bembridge, deposed that he was passing defendant’s house at 4 o’clock on the morning of Wednesday, the 7th inst., and, seeing the bar door open, he entered and found there Walter Mursell, defendant’s cousin, and Edmund Bull. Bull was drinking from a pint cup of beer. Witness said to Bull, “You are early at your drops,” and then remonstrated with defendant for keeping his house open. Defendant replied that they were going out mackerel fishing, and Bull was going out to help them.
Mr. Blake submitted that there was no showing that the house was open for the sale of beer. Defendant with his cousin and Bull, their assistant, were evidently going forth in pursuit of their lawful calling, and defendant gave Bull some beer. Clearly the Legislature never contemplated interference with men in such a case. He called defendant, who deposed that he had kept the house for seventeen years. An arrangement was made over night that they should rise very early, and the one who was up first should call the others. They were all together at his house for the purpose of starting when he drew a pint of fourpenny beer and set it before Bull, who was to go with the pony and cart. He did not sell the beer– he gave it. The bar door was left open a few minutes by accident at that early hour.
Walter Mursell, defendant’s cousin, gave corroborative evidence.
The Chairman said the Bench believed defendant, and dismissed the complaint.
Sharing beer, in accordance with the custom, July 1884
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 12 July 1884
ISLE OF WIGHT PETTY SESSIONS, County Bench.
Saturday. — Before the Hon. Somerset, J. G. Calthorpe (chairman) and W. A. Glynn, Esq.
…
William Cotton, fisherman, Atherfield, was summoned for selling beer without a license on the 23rd June.— Mr A. S. Estcourt defended.— P.S. Foster deposed that on the day in question he went to Atherfield, and from a quarter to 7 to 10 p.m. watched defendant’s cottage. At 7 o’clock a man entered the house, and after remaining ten minutes left. At 20 minutes to 8 another man drove up to the hedge by the side of the garden, and Mrs Cotton took him out something in a pint mug, which he drank, and at five minutes past eight went away. At 9 p.m. a second man entered the cottage, and at 10 o’clock witness, in company with two constables, went into the house. He saw the man present put a pint mug on the table containing beer, and in a second cup witness also found some beer. He read the warrant to Mrs Cotton as defendant was not at home. On searching in the kitchen he found two pint mugs, a quart pot, a funnel, and an 18-gallon cask containing beer (all produced). He subsequently measured the beer in the cask and found the quantity to be six quarts. — By Mr Estcourt: The man he saw in the house was Frank Cotton — P.C. Sharp corroborated. — Mr Estcourt submitted that there was no case to answer. — The Chairman said that, taking a common sense view of the case as it stood, there was no doubt in his mind that the beer was to be paid for.— Mr Estcourt said the matter could be easily explained. Defendant, who was part-owner of a mackerel net, was captain during the season of a gang of nine men, who worked together with another gang of men belonging to Sandown. Defendant acted as treasurer, and in accordance with the usual custom a barrel of beer wa« provided out of the funds. When settling day arrived the beer was not all consumed, and since that time when any of the men required a glass of beer they were at liberty to go to defendant’s house and get one.— Defendant and Southgate (captain of the Sandown gang) confirmed this statement.— The Bench dismissed the case.— Mr. Estcourt asked that the police might return the cask and mugs from whence they took them.— The Chairman, whilst stating that the Bench could make no such order, said that in dismissing the case they did not mean to convey that the police ought not to have taken any action in the matter.
And Alongside a Little Bit of Smuggling…#
Perhaps not surprisingly, reports of the mackerel season occasionally appeared alongside reports of another popular inshore activity around the back of the Wight: smuggling.
Isle of Wight - Monday 12 June 1826
Abundance of mackerel have been caught this week, at the back of the Wight of extraordinary good quality, and has been sold here at 3d. per doz.
Ninety tubs of smuggled liquor were deposited in the Custom House, at Cowes, this week, taken with four smugglers, at Bembridge.
NEWPORT, May 8 - Saturday 08 May 1830
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 08 May 1830
At the Petty Sessions on Saturday last, J. Gough was brought before the magistrates, on a charge of having a pint of foreign Geneva concealed in his hat. The excise officer having met the prisoner on the Cowes road, asked to see what he had in his hat, which he refused to shew him, when a scuffle ensued, the hat fell off, and a bladder containing a pint of Geneva was taken from it. The Court found him guilty, and sentenced him to pay 100l. and in default of which he was conveyed, on Monday to Winchester.
Immense shoals of mackerel have arrived off the back of the Island, affording a rich harvest to the fishermen, as great quantities have been sold in this town at 3d. each.
Will you take this parcel for me? Saturday 29 December 1832
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 29 December 1832
NEWPORT, Dec. 29.
On Saturday, the Petty Sessions held at the Guildhall, a man of name of Barnicle was fined in the mitigated penalty of 25l. having smuggled goods in his possession. The prisoner, in his defence, stated, that he went from his work at his breakfast time to his mother’s for provisions, and as he was returning to his work he was accosted by a man, who asked him if he would carry a parcel to the boat at Cowes, to be put on board the steamer, and if he would he would give him 2s. and pay the boatman 1s. He did so, and left the parcel outside a public-house. It was afterwards seized a custom house officer, and found to contain about seven gallons of brandy in tubs: it was traced to the possession of the prisoner, for which he was fined the above penally.—Mr. Smith, of Blackpan Farm, was fined ten shillings and ten shillings costs, for selling potatoes in the town of Ryde, without paying toll. Jemima Stallard, for concealing 48 gallons of foreign brandy; and Ann Shiller, for concealing 54 gallon* of foreign brandy—pleaded guilty, and were fined in the mitigated penalty of 251.—Ann Sustcoat; for concealing six tubs of foreign brandy—not appearing to summons, she was fined 100l. and a warrant issued for her apprehension.—John Prayton, for assaulting Mr. Thos. Thorold, harbour-master of Cowes—fined 10s. and 4s. costs.
https://britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000494/18411120/014/0003 Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 20 November 1841
ODD SMUGGLING ADVENTURE.— We last week gave a report of the committal to Winchester gaol of a party of smugglers (two Englishmen and three Frenchmen) wbo formed the crew of a vessel taken by Captain M’Conachy, commander of the Rose, revenue cutter, in Chale Bay, Captain M’C. sent a party of his own men on board the smuggler, her captain being left on board. During the night the wind blew strongly off the coast, and the preventive men on board were obliged to let the vessel drift across the English channel, when she ultimately run into Cherbourg, and the captain immediately claimed his vessel and his liberty, leaving the preventive men to get back to England again as they could.
An extensive seizure, 1844
Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 27 January 1844
COWES.
SMUGGLING.— On Tuesday last an extensive seizure was made off the back of the Wight, by a boat’s crew belonging to the revenue cutter Stag, Lieutenant C. G. Clark, her recently appointed commander. The night being fine the Commander dispatched a boat to row guard in shore under the High Land of Chale, while the cutter remained cruising off St. Catherine’s. About 0.30 a.m., a smack was descried by the boat’s crew standing in for the spot where they then happened to be; they therefore laid upon their oars and waited the close approach of the vessel, and were not observed by the crew of the smack until close on board of them. The smugglers immediately cut away their crop, which being observed by the officer in charge of the boat, he threw the mark-buoy overboard and pulled alongside, and in an instant the smack was boarded. She proved to be the William and Elisa, of Cowes, about 30 tons, with a crew of six men, viz.— James Barton, Edward White, John Symonds, William Lane (a well-known smuggler), Charles Hayles, and Stephen Grove. The boat’s crew, after securing the men, succeeded in creeping up the crop, which consisted of eighty casks of foreign spirits; and the whole crew, vessel, and crop, were brought round by the cutter to this port. The men have since been committed fer trial by the Magistrates at Newport. This seizure is by far the richest prize this vessel (which used to be called the unlucky vessel,) has taken for the last seven years, and will prove a handsome boon to the captors.
https://britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0002941/18440127/046/0003 Hampshire Independent - Saturday 27 January 1844
COWES. On Monday night last the Revenue cutter Stag, Charles Griffin Clarke, commander, while cruising off St. Catharine’s, despatched one of her boats, which succeeded in capturing the smack William and Eliza, of Cowes, which vessel on being discovered (it is said) had a quantity of tubs attached to her, which were cut away on the boat pulling alongside. A mark buoy was thrown over on the spot, and shortly after eighty tubs of spirits were crept up. There were six men on board, all belonging to the Isle of Wlghs, viz. James Barton, Edward White, John Summers, William Lane, Charles Hayles, and Stephen Groves. These were taken before the Magistrates at Newport, and committed for examination at the Petty Sessions, no Saturday (this day). This is the second important seizure made by the Stag in about six weeks.
https://britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000494/18440203/035/0008 Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 03 February 1844
Newport Petty Sessions.— … James Barton, Stephen Groves, Edward White, William Lane, John Symonds, and Charles Hayles, were charged with smuggling and pleaded Guilty. (The case was fully reported in our last.) They were each committed for six months imprisonment.
https://britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000494/18470327/027/0005 Hampshire Advertiser - Saturday 27 March 1847
Newport Borough Court.—Monday.
A seaman named Patrick Mooney, applied to the Court for nearly 18l. which he said was due to him from Mr. S. Pring, coal-merchant, and which defendant refused to pay him.
It appeared that Mr. Pring engaged him as a seaman for one of his vessels, the Davenport, at the rate of 8l. per month. The vessel left England four months’ ago for Quebec, and when they cailed from thence complainant assisted in conveying on board and secreting several hundred pounds in weight of tobacco. The captain being made acquainted by the cabin-boy of the smuggling transaction, on their passage homeward, when they put in at Weymouth he immediately gave information of the fact at the Customs. The consequence was, complainant and another man were taken into custody, and, after being convicted of a penalty which they could not pay, they were sentenced to two months’ imprisonment. On their liberation, complainant applied for his wages, and upwards of 1l for alleged shortness of provisions on the passage.
It was proved that they had a sufficient quantity of provisions, and Mr Pring stated that he lost upwards of 100l by the detention of the vessel and other expenses; and had it not been for the fortunate timely discovery of the smuggling affair, he would have lost his ship.
The Chairman said, as complainant had been guilty of smuggling, and convicted, they should be setting a bad example were they to order the payment of the wages. They should, therefore, dismiss the case.
VENTNOR - Saturday 04 June 1870
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 04 June 1870
Capture of a Smuggler
At half-past 2 on Friday morning Mr. Taylor, R.N., chief officer charge the Coastguard station, received intelligence that a sailing boat was landing a number of casks in Steel Bay, about two miles east of Ventnor, and close to Luccombe Chine. Mr. Taylor instantly called a boat’s crew, and had a four-oared galley launched from Ventnor Bay, in order to pull round Dunnose point and, if possible, to cut off the supposed smuggler. 25 minutes from the intelligence being reported at Ventnor station the Coastguard boat reached the spot where tubs had been landed. The smuggler had taken his departure on the first alarm, and was now seen about four miles from the shore, standing off into the Channel with fair breeze. It seemed doubtful whether the Coastguard boat could overtake him, but she immediately made off in full pursuit, the men bending to their oars in fine style. After a very long pull, and a deal of dodging on the part of the pursued, the boat was captured a good distance out in the Channel, as far as the eye could reach from the cliffs. There was only one man, Noah Williams, of Ventnor, in the boat, but he was made prisoner, and brought back to Ventnor, about 10 o’clock, in his own boat, by two of the Coastguard men. Some other men, who had not been able to regain their boat on being surprised when landing their liquids in Steel Bay, had made good their escape by climbing the cliff.
Alleged Charge of Smuggling, June 1870
Isle of Wight Observer - Saturday 04 June 1870
COUNTY PETTY SESSIONS.
Saturday.Before Sir Henry Percy Gordon, bart., (chairman), W. G. Shedden, esq., C. Brett, esq., and C. G. M. Skinner, esq.
ALLEGED CHARGE OF SMUGGLING.
Noah Williams, of Ventnor, was brought up to answer a charge of landing 25 tubs of contraband spirits at Luccombe ion Wednesday, the 25th inst.
Mr. William Vaughan, acting collector of H.M. Customs, appeared on behalf of the Crown, and asked for a remand, to enable him to communicate with the Hon. Commissioners of Customs. The accused was remanded to this day Saturday.
ALLEGED CHARGE OF STEALING MACKEREL.
Richard Norton, wheelwright, and John Rashley, brickmaker, were charged with stealing four mackerel, the property Mr. George Lale, Wroxall, builder.
Mr. W. J. Beckingsale appeared on behalf the defendants.
Complainant said: I was at Wroxall on the 16th of May, and bought four mackerel. I was passing by the Star inn with the fish hanging by a string from one finger. I stopped to look at an entire horse the road, and several other persons were standing by and looking at the horse. Then Norton came out a yard and was looking on, and I, holding up the fish, made a remark about their being fine; and Norton, putting forth his hand, hooked the string of fish from mv finger and went away with them up the yard. I offered no resistance at that time, but felt annoyed when he and Rashley went away with them, and I said “This will not do; I charge you with stealing these mackerel.” He did not reply to me, and in a short time came back to me with three of the fish on the string. I said: “Bring back the four, or I shall go to the police at Ventnor.” Young and Farmer Dunford were with me at the time. Rashley then said to me “Look here, I will pay you for the fish;” and then he went on. I refused to take the three fish, as I wanted the four.
The defence was that taking away the fish was a mere practical joke, and there was no felonious intent. A person up the yard snatched a fish from the string, or the four would have been handed to complainant.
William Young, of Span Lodge, Wroxall, gave evidence which went to show that there was no appearance of a felonious intent. The Bench dismissed the complaint.
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VENTNOR.
Capture of a Smuggler.— At half-past 2 on Friday morning Mr. Taylor, R.N., chief officer in charge of the Coastguard station, received intelligence that sailing boat was landing a number of casks in Steel Bay, about two miles east of Ventnor, and close to Luccombe Chine. Mr. Taylor instantly called a boat’s crew, and had a four-oared galley launched from Ventnor Bay, in order to pull round Dunnose point and, if possible, to cut off the supposed smuggler. In 25 minutes from the intelligence being reported at Ventnor station the Coastguard boat reached the spot where tubs had been landed. The smuggler had taken his departure on the first alarm, and was now seen about four miles from the shore, standing off into the Channel with a fair breeze. It seemed doubtful whether the Coastguard boat could overtake him, but she immediately made off in full pursuit, the men bending to their oars in fine style. After a very long pull, and a deal of dodging on the part of the pursued, the boat was captured a good distance out in the Channel, as far as the eye could reach from the cliffs. There was only one man, Noah Williams, of Ventnor, in the boat, but he was made prisoner, and brought back to Ventnor, about 10 o’clock, in his own boat, by two of the Coastguard men. Some other men, who had not been able to regain their boat being surprised when landing their liquids in Steel Bay, had made good their escape by climbing the cliff.
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BLACKGANG.
Smuggling.— The Coastguards captured 43 tubs of spirits at Atherfield, on Wednesday, supposed to have been sunk to wait an opportunity of landing. The rough sea washed them into shallow water, and the Coastguards with some difficulty got on shore.
Last week it afforded us pleasure to mention the success of the fishermen here catching large numbers mackerel, but we are sorry to have to record this week the serious loss sustained by many of them. No less than five boats were entirely lost on Tuesday night, by the tide rising to an unusual height. On Tuesday evening the boats all along the coast were pulled to what was considered a safe distance from the water, but in the night the wind rose very considerably, and with it the tide; boats were washed away to sea, and have not been heard of. One was entirely smashed, and two partially so. One of the latter belongs to Bembridge, and had come to Blackgang in hopes of sharing the success of the season with the Chale boats. We understand they had only caught about 100 fish when this accident happened. We are informed that the boats are not the most serious part of the loss, as there are four nets more or less seriously damaged! the cost of a good mackerel net being from £50 to £60.