5.*--"The directors of the Norfolk and Eastern Counties Railway, with the
view of giving the poorer classes greater facilities, have started a
fourth class. The return fare to London is 7s. 6d."
7.--The Wymondham and Dereham Railway was opened for goods traffic. The
Bill for the construction of this railway, which was applied for by the
Norfolk Company, was strenuously opposed by Norwich traders, who
considered that a direct line to Dereham would be to their greater
advantage. The Act authorised the Company to make an extension of 22.5
miles from Dereham to Wells, with a branch line of 6.5 miles to Blakeney,
making the total from Wymondham 40.5 miles. Messrs. Grissel and Peto
were the general contractors, and the electric telegraph was established
under the superintendence of the Rev. A. Bath Power. (_See_ February
15th, 1847.)
18.--Winter set in with great severity. The Dereham, Swaffham, and Lynn
coach was unable to leave Norwich, owing to the great depth of the snow.
20.--A fine specimen of the black grouse was shot at Swanton.
--A riot occurred at Pulham St. Mary Workhouse. The paupers made a
preconcerted attack upon the bread store, and were with difficulty driven
back by the officials. Thirteen of the ringleaders were committed to
Norwich Castle for terms ranging from seven days to two months'
imprisonment. (_See_ January 5th, 1847.)
26.--Norwich Theatre opened for the Christmas season with the play of
"George Barnwell" and the pantomime "Fortunio." Mr. Davenport, "in
compliance with public feeling," reduced the prices of admission, which
had been raised on his taking over the management.
--Many of the roads in the country were stated to be "half a yard deep in
mud," and almost impassable. "Heavy goods in large quantities have
lately been sent from Norwich to London and from thence to Ipswich by
rail, 196 miles, instead of the direct route of 40 miles by road, the
rail conveyance being cheaper and quicker. It would be a great advantage
in this and other counties if a general Act were passed for widening and
levelling the turnpike roads and for laying down tramways on which
carriages could be drawn by horses or by engines of small power to the
principal railway. Unless some measure of this sort be carried out, the
common roads will soon be of little use, and not worth keeping in
repair."
1847.