February 13th, 1860. The Right Honourable Lord Ward was created "Earl
of Dudley and Viscount Ednam." This important event was received with
great satisfaction, both in the town of Dudley and the surrounding
villages and hamlets, and the ancient town of Dudley was especially
aware of marked consideration, in having the new elevation in the
Peerage of the House of Himley called after our loyal and trusty old
Borough. Deputations of congratulations to the noble Earl poured in
upon him from all quarters, and the most notable must be claimed, the
"Great Deputation," which in much pomp and state emanated from the
then Mayor, Theophilus Tinsley, Esq., and the principal inhabitants of
Dudley, who were most graciously received by the new Earl of Dudley, at
Himley Hall, on February 18th, 1860. The following is a report of these
congratulatory deputations.