Hi,
Whilst searching through newspaper reports relevant to my family, I came across a report in the Evening News (Portsmouth) dated 16th October 1908, regarding an assault on my Grandparents Herbert John and Annie Elizabeth Pead. Herbert was the licensee of the 'Shakespeare's Head, Landport' Portsmouth at this date (transcript below for any interested). There were two pubs called by this name on Portsea Island at this date but this one was in Landport. My Grandfather went on to be a grocer and a wonderful gardener so I was amused to read what he used as a defensive weapon.
I can find no photographs or illustrations of this pub which no longer exists. Does anyone have one they might share or know anyone who might have one? It would greatly add colour to this part of my family history.
many thanks,
John
Here is the transcript:
ASSAULT ON A LICENSEE
Herbert John Pead, licensed victualler's manager, of the "Shakespeare's Head," Landport, summoned two merchant seamen, named Hy. Webb and Fredk. Wiggins, for assaulting him, on the 2nd inst.
- Mrs. Annie Elizabeth Pead, the wife of Herbert Pead. also summoned the two men for assaulting her.
- Mr. G. H. King appeared for the complainants, and Mr. E. J. T. Webb for the defendant Webb, and Mr. Wadeson represented Wiggins.
- The allegations were that on the night in question the two defendants drove up to the "Shakespeare's Head" and called for a drink. They were drunk, and Mr. Pead refused to serve them. They then used bad language, and assaulted Mr. and Mrs. Pead. When the defendant assaulted Mr. Pead and his wife Mr. Pead picked up a Jersey cabbage stump, which was about three feet in length, and hit Wiggins with it. Witnesses were called to corroborate.
- Wiggings denied striking the complainants, and Mr. Webb, for the other defendant, tendered a plea of "guilty under great provocation."
- Webb was fined 40s. and 11s. costs, and Wiggins 40s, and 11s. costs.
