Inquests and Coroner's reports

[polidor]

I am returning to an account of murder in my tree by one Frank Copperwaite.

I have the newspaper report of the murder of his wife and have only just sent off for the wife's [Maud Copperwaite] death cert hoping it might tell me a bit more!

The murder was on January 30th 1920.

The first inquest was adjourned and then set for February 16th according to the paper.

The newspaper reports that the trial began----Northampton Assizes Friday last--the newspaper is dated as  6th June.

Apart from the newspaper report which i have and the death cert that i have sent for, is it possible that there is any other information/paperwork that would be around and available to me about this case ??  poli

[Mumsie2131]

Hi,
Local Newspapers are usually the best place to look for reports of Inquests.  I have one for my Gt Grandfather who was found drowned in the canal.
Dot

[robesur]

Records of Assizes are generally kept at the National Archives. Northamptonshire was in the Midland Circuit and I understand that a lot of the early records of that circuit are missing, but I trust that does not refer to 1920.

[polidor]

Thanks Dot for reminding me about newspapers and thanks also to Robesur. I went to the National archives site but unfortunately couldn't find anything under the heading Northampton assizes. Tried the general search sections in the Archives with--Northamptonshire Murder--Copperwaite murder--Murders in 1920--etc. but nothing came up. Trying to think of other ways  poli

[newburychap]

Search for the Midland Circuit in Series ASSI (for Assizes). The catalogue does not differentiate between the various places the Assize sat, no doubt they are all in the same books.

[polidor]

Search for the Midland Circuit in Series ASSI (for Assizes). The catalogue does not differentiate between the various places the Assize sat, no doubt they are all in the same books.

I found the following at the Archives website but assume i would need to visit Kew for any further info.? 

Title Assizes: Midland Circuit: Criminal Depositions and Case Papers
Covering dates 1862-1971
Availability Subject to 30 year closure unless otherwise stated 
Held by The National Archives, Kew   

The death cert only tells me "Wilful murder against Frank Copperwaite"

The informant section says----Certificate received from A.E.Ray, Deputy Coroner for the Mid division of Northamptonshire Inquest held 31st January& 16th February 1920.

poli.

[newburychap]

The information is at Kew - you will need to go or get someone to check it out for you.

You might also find information at the local record office - a local court will probably have committed Frank for trial at the assizes.

[ceredig]

Hello Polidor

With regard to the above, I wonder if you would be so kind as to PM me.  I am unable to PM you due to the 'three posts' rule.

Many thanks

Ceredig