[TRANSCRIPTION OF A HANDWRITTEN VOLUME IN THE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA ARCHIVES AND SPECIAL COLLECTIONS. TRANSCRIBED BY CHRISTINE BONE, LIBRARIAN. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES ARE IN SQUARE BRACKETS. AT THE END OF THE DOCUMENT IS A SUMMARY OF THE PLACES AND SURNAMES MENTIONED IN THE DOCUMENT]

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Sketches of the Bell & Gell families, By William Bell.

It is my wish that this book (after my death) become the property of my Brother, Chas. Bell, draper, &c., of Redcar, to whom the Bell & Gell Families are of the greatest interest. – February, 1893.

William Bell.

[Inside cover: newspaper clipping “Life is a book …”]

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Sketches of the Bell & Gell families, From the Year 1630 to 1868.

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[Newspaper clipping: “Billions of ancestors …”]

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[Newspaper clipping: “Long livers …”]

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Directions as to the numbering of the pages.

Owing to several additions having been made as the sketches extended, & additional information to be added, the numbering of the pages is in apparent confusion.

The following will serve as a guide to the index & contents:--

Part I. Letters g to x.

Part II. The Gell Family—1x to 66x

Part III. The Bell Family—1 to 46The Bell Family continued—47a to 62oThe Bells continued—47 to the end.

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Contents.—Part I.

Index.

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The Gell Family 1xAnn Sherwood, wife of Thos. Gell, of Hollym 2xAnn Gell, the first-born of the above Thos. & Ann Gell 2xThos. Gell, afterwards of Knaresbro’, bank manager 3xMargaret Gell, mother of the Bells, of Patrington,

Norton, Stockton, & Middlesbro 6xEdward Gell 41xJames Gell 42xFamily of James Gell 44xSummary opinion of the above Family 45x

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Index to the Bell Family

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Sketch of the Bell & Henderson Family of Brancepeth 1 to 14Old Willie Bell, Brancepeth 15-19William Bell, son of above 19-24Wm. Bell’s family

Keziah [i.e. Kezia] BellJemima BellEmma BellWilliam BellClara BellPriscilla Bell

John Bell, father of present generation of Bells, ofPatrington, Norton, & Middlesboro’ 31-39

William Bell, eldest son of John & Margaret Bell 39-41

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Index continued

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James Bell – dead 42Mary Bell 42 to 43Emma Bell 43Thomas Bell 44John Bell 47-48Edward Bell 48-49Removal from Patrington to Norton 50-52Geo. Bell, first-born at Norton 52-53Charles Bell 53-59Charles’s Family

Margaret Bell 59Emily Bell 59Harry Bell 59Louisa Bell 59Clara Bell 59Annie Bell 59Eleanor Bell 59

Characteristic Incidents 61

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Index continued

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Alfred Bell 89 to 91Jessy Bell 92-95Margaret Bell (dead) 95

Summary of the Bell Family – their characteristics 101

Deaths in the Bell & Gell Family

Margaret Bell, died young.

John Bell, died at Redcar on the 26th July, 1888, aged 67. There is little doubt but servitude in the West Indies & other hot climates had an injurious effect upon his constitution. Without any apparent disease, John faded away like a tree in autumn. Buried at Coatham.

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Births, &c, of the Gell Family.

Children of Thomas & Ann Gell, of Hollym, near Patrington, E. Riding of Yorkshire, Holderness, Hull.

1. Ann Gell , born 8th Aug., 1779.2. Margaret Gell , born Sep. 28, 1781; died Oct. 6th 1781.3. A son, born Nov. 2, 1783; died young.4. Thomas Gell , born Sep. 24, 1785; died Oct. 19th 1843.5. Margaret Gell – mother of the Bells – born Jan. 9th 1788; died July 19th at

Stockton, 1846.6. Edward Gell , born May 28, 1789.7. Christopher Gell , born Dec. 28, 1791; died Feb. 1819.8. Jane Gell , born Jan. 23, 1794.9. George Gell , born April 19, 1795.10. James Gell, born Nov. 30, 1796.

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Number of children born to the sons & daughters of Thos. & Ann Gell.

1. Ann Gell , married to Geo. Pattinson, farmer – eight children 82. Margaret Gell – died young --3. A son – died young --4. Thomas Gell , Knaresbro’ – two 25. Margaret Gell , Patrington, &c. 126. Edward Gell – none --7. Christopher Gell – none --8. Jane Gell – three 39. George Gell – none --10. James Gell – three 3

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James Gell’s children

1. Elizabeth Gell , born Dec. 25, 1829.2. Joseph Gell , born June 13, 1831.3. Edward Gell , born June 4, 1835.4. Ann Gell , born Feb. 6, 1841.

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The Gell Family – Part II

Connected with the Bell family are the Gells, by marriage on the mother side with John Bell.

As it may be of interest to some of the Bells to have a brief outline of the Gells, by one who knew them & the only one perhaps who can give an idea of their character or pedigree.

The Gells sprung from the north of England, & by some believed to be from Cumberland or Westmoreland. Their predecessors had been brought up as respectable farmers.

Old Thomas Gell, the father of the generation of Gells born from 1779 to 1796, lived on a farm at Patrington, afterwards removed to Hollym, & died about 1830, at about 90 years of age. He was tall, light-haired, good-like, gentlemanly, kind-hearted, generous, but “proud” in his way, fond of company, & “a drop o’ drink.” He was much respected in his locality, & though poor in circumstances as a farmer, he was always addressed by those who knew him as “Mister Gell” or “Mister Tommy Gell” in deference & out of respect of his having seen better days, & as having had a better education than the average class of farmers at his time of day.

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Thomas Gell was married to Ann Sherwood, daughter of a large farmer in the neighbourhood where he resided. This lady was one of the peculiar sort – short tempered, haughty, flighty, & unsettled in her general temperament. She had the temper of a vixen at one moment, whilst the next she was ready “to put you in her pocket!” She could not be relied upon to be found in the same vein of temper for five minutes at any hour of a day, her disposition being irritable, peevish, & fretful, whilst at other moments she was equally kind & condescending. She was a great snuff-taker & fond of boasting of her descent. She was aunt to Mark Sherwood, of Rysum Park, near Patrington, East Riding of Yorkshire. She died at abt. seventy years of age, in 1827.

Ann Gell was their first child, born Aug. 8th, 1779. She was married to Geo. Pattinson, a well-to-do farmer, at Horsham, near Withernsea, had a large & fine family; but her husband being a bad manager, he got into difficulties, the whole stock was sold off, he turned to drinking, removed to Hull, & lived a very hard & poor livelihood, died in middle age, whilst his wife reached the age of about 90. She was a real good, kind soul.

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Margaret Gell, born Sep. 28, 1781, & died 6th October, 1781 (in infancy).

There was a son born Nov. 2, 1783, who died in infancy also.

Thomas Gell, born Sep. 24, 1785. This son was destined to be the most, if not the only successful one in the family, out of ten children. Thro’ influence & perseverance, he received a good, or passable, education, & was able to procure a situation in a bank in the neighbourhood of Hull. Afterwards, he removed to Malton; from thence to Knaresbro’, to Terry’s bank. Here he married a person with a little cash & a house or two. She died childless. He then married a Miss Eteson, of Knaresbro’, much against the inclination of the her family, who were flax dressers, & weavers of linen; a proud, ignorant, selfish, presuming, insulting, stuck-up lot. This pair had two children – John Eteson Gell & Tom Gell, who both inherited the pure “selfishness” of the Eteson brigade, wh. almost amounted to a mania. This brother of the mother of the Bell family (Margaret), was a decent fellow in the eyes of the world – that is, the outside world – was a good churchman & Sunday school teacher, a visitor of the poor in sick-

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ness, read to the workhouse people from the Bible, held prayer meetings, & was looked upon as a really good Christian by all people at Knaresbro’. He was kind to all who solicited his aid, & meant well & did well, as far as his means would allow. He was very different to the writer of this sketch when at home. Like a good many more, he seemed always as if he had left all his good nature, consideration, & laughing disposition abroad, or exhausted his stock-in-trade of amiable qualities; for, after knowing him for seven years, the writer can’t remember that he ever was once benign enough to smile approval or encouragement, or consider his absolute necessities, either in toggery or eatables. Thus, the writer – Wm. Bell – was left to fate, was an apprentice on 5/- a-week to live & clothe himself, with lodgings to pay of 2/ or 2/6 a-week, & Mister Gell was heedless whether his nephew starved or went naked! This did not look very Christian-like, but is true nevertheless; but the boy never once “complained” to his parents at Norton, but resolved to “grin & bear” his fate. The consequence was, that the youth got into loose or careless company, was left entirely to float or sink by himself, without even an inquiry, wh. led to follies resulting in pains & penalties in after life, & regrets wh. could never be obliterated. So much, then, for being sent from home at the age of 14, & placed under the guid-

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ance & “protection” of an uncle! Poor Margaret Bell could never believe in a fault there was in her brother Thomas at Knaresbro’, but was ignorant of his mode of treatment of her eldest born. Thomas Gell died Oct. 19, 1843, aged 58. In 1831, this uncle became manager of the Knaresbro’ & Clare Bank, established at Knaresbro’. His sons were in the bank as clients & in 1856, Thomas Gell, second son of the above, became manager of the same bank, & is so now (Dec. ’68). As an instance that this son is possessed of a fair share of meanness & ingratitude, one fact will suffice. When the writer of this account was at Bradford, Tom Gell paid “a short” visit to Wm. Bell for a couple of months, & the latter being at lodgings, with Mrs. Leveine, he paid 12/ a-week for Mister Tom Gell during his stay. Shortly after the return of Tom Gell to Knaresbro’, W. Bell went over on business -- on two occasions – but on neither visit did the former guest at Bradford invite the visitor to his house to tea, dine, or sup! but have him (Bell) the cut direct! – But, it so chanced, that the Bradford visitor did not stand in need of hospitality from a fellow like that. The shabbiness, however, was understood & appreciated. A score of other such tricks cd. be named, all in the same line, as regards the Gells at Knaresbro’. This account is written 33 years after leaving

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Knaresbro’, but the foul treatment received at their hands, is still as vividly as ever impressed upon the mind. In one word – they are a shabby, selfish, unthinking lot, & I pity any poor youth who has the prospect of being placed under “the protection” of such uncles, cousins, or relatives.

Margaret Gell, sister of the above-named Thos. Gell, was born Jan. 9th, 1788, & died July 19th 1846, at Stockton-on-Tees. This was the beloved & sacred name whom the sons & daughters of John Bell were privileged to style – Mother. (see pages 39 to end of this book.) It is said the world is governed by contradictions; & if there ever was “a contrast” between two individuals born of the same parents, it is (or was) in this instance. Not having been brought up at home with father & mother, so much as all the others, I can speak more disinterestedly & truthfully, as far as my experience goes. If ever there was a truly good, generous, noble-souled Christian on earth, Margaret Bell was one. She was sincere, devoted, practical, in all her religious actions & feelings; she was forgiving, though impetuous in temper; clever as a letter-writer, if apparently too zealous; ever watchful over the childish follies of a large family, she administered advice or rebuke wh. left no sting, but

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rather pleasure, behind; of a free & open nature, she believed all the world to be honest; confiding & sure in the abiding principles of the New Testament, she could not look with harshness or misgivings upon frail humanity; being master of her own self, & deeply engrafted with holy & sacred thoughts & writings – particularly scriptural quotations – she was well qualified to advise & direct others; she made no pretensions, but was an humble, pious, confidant believer in Jesus Christ; having to deal with a number of children, she felt it necessary to be sometimes blind to their shortcomings, as well as deaf to trivial complaints; thro’ life her means of supporting her family were scanty – oftentimes even so much so, that it was hard to say where the next meal was to be got, yet she seldom complained; her fate was hard, & anxiety was never-ending for those around her, yet she hoped on & murmured not; her Christian fortitude bore her thro’ all trials; whilst her patience, honesty, & benevolent generosity of temperament to all around, endeared her presence & memory to all who knew her. Whether friends or casual acquaintances, to know Margaret Bell was deemed sufficient to ensure the best of advice & sympathy, even though the poorest of the poor amongst them. Her confidence, esteem, & good-will was prized by all,

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& none essayed to upbraid. Unaffected & genuine in all she did & said, her numerous visitors could firmly rely upon all she advanced as truthful & for the best (see page 37.) In early life, Margaret Bell was a handsome, well-proportioned person, with light-brown hair & good complexion; rather thin in build, & of the average height of women; but, poor lady, a family of 12 children & adversity sadly bore her down through life. Yet, to the last, she maintained a dignified pride & complacency wh. told what she had once been. She possessed a full share of the lofty spirit (or “pride”) of the Gell & Bell family, though modified by religious sentiment. And it is no untruth to say, that this “spirit” has imperceptibly instilled into the minds of all her sons & daughters; & it is the belief of many of us, that it is mainly owing to this tuition wh. has helped to carry us all over many obstacles & appalling difficulties & dangers. This also with confidence can be asserted, that mother’s example & admonitions have never been erased from the minds of her children. Her constant prayer was, that her “dear boys & girls might never bring disgrace upon their parents” by evil deeds, but follow in the paters of rectitude, truth, & honesty. Had she been now alive (Dec. ’68), it would have been her great glory & consolation to know that her prayer has been fully realised, and not one of the Ten have “disgraced” the name of Bell

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or Gell family; not one can be upbraided with low lifed misdeeds of dishonesty or scornful derelictions of duty; but from childhood to approaching old age, the Rule of Life in all has been honesty, self-reliance, industry, respectability of demeanour, with a moderate frugality wh. aimed at elevating them in their common station in life. To mother alone is due the credit of the principles thus taught & followed. The family, justly pride themselves upon these facts, & by fireside conversation have often “wondered” at their success in life, considering with what limited means of education they were sent abroad to encounter the stern Realities of the World; & when it is recollected that nearly all began to labour ere they were ten years of age – either in the brick fields of Norton, or other menial occupations – the above points are favourable characteristics in any family thus “dragged” up to maturity. One or two instances will suffice as examples of success, wh. are enlarged upon under the proper names of each: For above 23 years, Wm. Bell held a responsible situation at Bradford, at never less than 35/ to £2 per week, & above 19 years at Newcastle as overseer in a large office; Mary Bell was lady’s maid with some of the first families in Scotland & England, as well as housekeeper, for half her lifetime; Emma

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remained at Middlesbro’, but was highly respected in the sphere in wh. she moved; Tom was at Havannah as engineer in the Royal arsenal, for 13 years, as well as having been engineer on board Spanish men-of-war, at salaries ranging from 30 pounds to £50 per month; John was also at Havannah as second engineer afloat, at 25£ or more per month; Edward Bell was clever as a fitter, mechanic, a modeller, with good wages in Portsmouth, Southampton, Liverpool, &c.; Chas. Bell carried on an extensive business as a draper at Middlesbro’, where not a man in the town was more valued or esteemed, as an upright, honest, straight-forward tradesman, as well as of ability; Alfred several times occupied good positions, but fortune thwarted his efforts, owing principally to a nervelessness of disposition, as well as his numerous family, but still equal in respectability & respected; George Bell, although not brought up to so good a trade as some of his brothers, still maintained his pluck & independence, as well as gaining the good-will of his fellow-workmen & neighbours; whilst Jessy, the youngest living, was “fully up to the work” in everything necessary to attain success in life, either with hands or head, industry, skill, or practical usefulness and tact, as a woman, wife, or mother.

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For Charles to write any additions wh. mother & father.

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Thos. Gell, of Knaresbro’, sons. – Death & marriage.

Thos. Gell (mother’s brother) had two sons. Eteson Gell was the eldest, & died in a decline about the year 1854, aged 35, unmarried. He was a singular, retired, quiet, inoffensive fellow, & withal decent, & kind-hearted.

Thomas Gell’s (at present manager of Clare bank) marriage was thus brought about:-- After his father died, he was very unsteady, & introduced himself amongst the girls at Knaresbro’. He paid his attentions to a girl named Marshall, parish clerk & national schoolmaster. This man was a gruff, surly fellow. He did not believe in Tom Gell’s solicitations towards his daughter as “honest”. He “forbid” her keeping Tom’s company at her peril – she persisted, the father resisted & threatened. At last, he caught them in conversation at his door. In the height of passion, & knowing th. his daughter prided herself upon a fine & beautiful head of hair, he seized hold of her, took her into the house, got a large pair of shears, & clipped off all her hair! – as close as if done in a gaol! This cruel act so preyed upon her that she was well-nigh deranged; she did not venture out of doors for 12 months; whilst Tom Gell’s sympathies were aroused for her sufferings on his account, & he married Miss Marshall about 1848. He would not have married her but for the cruelty of her father. They have three children.

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Edward Gell, born May 28, 1789. Edward was brought up to no trade in particular; he was a diminutive man, short-tempered or snarling, but of a kind heart; his was a life of hardship & misfortunes. At the latter period of his life, he was a strict Wesleyan. He was aboard of man-of-war for many years, & fought in several actions. He was in the custom-house at Hull as tide waiter. Poor fellow! he possessed a fine & kindred spirit of kindness for his kind – was a capital teller of long seafaring “yarns” – he lived in poverty but was always “respectable” even in his worst days. He lost his life by falling during a dark night from a ladder leading down into one of the docks at Hull, from wh. a spell or cross was broken, wh. he had forgot when descending & the tide being down at the time, he accidentally fell in head first amongst the clay, & was found with the greatest part of his body exposed, his head buried & feet uppermost – smothered, having been unable to extricate himself, tho’ injured in no respect whatever. This was about 1845. Thus he had faced the fierceness of battle, & uncountless dangers – thus had he struggled & kept stern want from his door, & was lost at last by a trivial & unexpected accident. He was a great lover of parrots, & generally brought one home when “on leave;” and, like most other sailors, was a brave, fear-naught, daring, determined, but honest, kind, generous-hearted fellow, & was a great favourite with sister Margaret.

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Christopher Gell, born Dec. 28, 1791. He was also a sailor, & was a fine, handsome, tall man, a great favourite with his father & mother, as a noble specimen of humanity. He was drowned at sea by being washed overboard in a storm, in Feb. 1819.

Jane Gell, born Jan. 23, 1794. Jane was a strict Wesleyan, was at service, & married a sailor called Playfoot, who afterwards became a tide-waiter at Hull. He had the misfortune to have his right arm blown off by the shoulder, in cleaning a gun wh. had been fired in celebration of some paltry royal birthday, though he lived for some years afterwards. Jane received a small pension on act. of this accident, made their living by acting as a laundress & keeping a mangle, but bowed down with poverty, short allowance, & hard work. In her day, she was tall & handsome, with light-brown hair, following her father in this respect, who had light, flaxen hair. She was living in 1854.

George Gell, born April 19, 1795, who died when young.

James Gell, born Nov. 30, 1796. This son remained at Hollym with his father to manage the farm, till some years after his father’s death. He was a quiet, easy-going, rather shiftless, slow-going person. He

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could never make ends meet upon the farm, & was ever at the last extremity. He was rather “too soft” in his generosity, & had no foresight whatever, but seemed inclined to believe what everybody said to be true – a most fatal & ruinous idea. Ultimately, the farm was lost, the stock-in-trade dispersed, & James was left standing alone – his hat “covering the whole of his estate.” After that, he was appointed overseer, or relieving-officer for a district at Patrington, East Riding, where he made a mess of it by being too liberal for the guardians, & was suspended. He was next appointed post-man for the same locality, where he had to walk about 20 miles daily; carried a horn (a trumpet) to announce his approach to the farmers, or for those for whom he had any letters or newspapers; he had a small pittance for a salary, so much so, that he was reduced (or compelled, by way of “making-up” for low wages) to receiving any bits of odds & ends, in the shape of food, from his customers – for wh. purpose he carried a wallet or basket, wherein was deposited the medley of provender, the choicest, freshest morsels being selected for domestic use, & the remainder supplied to the – pigs or hens! In this way was the poor fellow reduced to the lowest point of subsistence; yet, he lived on and on, was a “great deal thought of” in his locality, as an easy-going, good-natured man. He was still living in 1868, at Welwick, near

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Patrington, within four miles of where he had his farm at Hollym. James was an enthusiastic Wesleyan Methodist all his life.

The following children were born to the above-named James Gell:--

Elizabeth Gell, born Dec. 25, 1829. A fine, tall, stout, good-like wench, with a spirit of fire, & pluck to match; but she was unfortunate in her alliance with a dissipated farmer in the neighbourhood, without either brains, industry, or decency – a perfect buffoon in breeches, whose deserts were inside of a gaol, or transportation to the tropics.

Joseph Gell, born June 13, 1831 – also rather “soft” in his upper garret, brought up to be a draper, & turned out nothing particular.

Edward Gell, born June 4, 1835, of whom I know nothing.

Ann Gell, born Feb. 6, 1841. This was a nice, flaxen-haired, tall, ruddy, fresh-coloured girl, as generous a spirit as could be met with, but too good to be mixed up with a lot o’ yokels in the district in wh. she was born & brought up. She was like her sister Elizabeth – just one of those persons of the feminine gender who are most likely to be imposed upon by reliance upon smooth-tongued designers, who are all pretension by word of mouth, & conceal their thoughts with their language.

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Summary Opinion of the Gell Family.

It is before said that the Gell family aimed at good conduct & respectability throughout their career, whatever might be their position as to success in life, or limited sources. Their “spirit” (or pluck) never failed them, & a natural “pride” kept them afloat, or beyond depression for any length of time together. But yet, as a rule, the Gell family lacked perseverance and plodding industry; they were hard workers for a while, but unthrifty with their gains. They were also unsettled in their habits, & partial to adventures, wh. never once ended in prosperity. Out of a family of ten, there is no instance but that of Thos. Gell, of Knaresbro’, establishing himself in business, & leaving a son to keep his name from oblivion. Nearly all the daughters of old Mr.

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Tommy Gell, of Hollym, were sent into the world to seek their living at an early age in servitude, owing to the poverty of their parents; & it is observable, that all but one – Ann Gell, afterwards married to Geo. Pattinson – were united to persons who were strict Wesleyan Methodists. Of course, this fact was brought about by the girls associating with that body of religionists, & the name of John Wesley being a symbol of popularity when the Gells were young. The same remark applies to the sons of Tommy Gell, who were all Methodists, & married into (or from) the same class.

There was a failing or instability about all the Gells, as well as the Sherwoods, accompanied with an impetuosity of temper & temperament; in a word – hot-tempered, but forgiving, kind-hearted, & generous.

No one could ever say of the Gell family, that they were blessed with much Tact. In this they were admittedly short, & this shortcoming was mainly instrumental in reduc-

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ing them to impoverished circumstances. If success favoured them, they no sooner felt themselves well-to-do, than they rested from their labours, or else heedlessly allowed the advantages to slip from their grasp. At times, they were slavishly economical & saving, whilst at others they were profusely liberal in giving “cups o’ tea,” dinners, &c., to their assumed “friends” – the Wesleyans. Their house was the common refuge of all the local preachers, & those who generally accompany them in their excursions in agricultural districts.

On some occasions, the Gells were well versed in Stubbornness, & at these times were extremely difficult to move from the position they assumed.

As a family, the Gells were fickle in disposition, easily persuaded by designing or scheming parties, in whom the Gells could never believe there was any deception but were in the habit of “believing all as Gospel” advanced by particular acquaintances.

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There was an apparent contradiction in the character of the Gells, wh. has often been looked as mysterious in the eyes of many; & that is with respect to their carefulness at one period, & their extravagance at others. “Meanness” is the word for scraping; & then, on the merest pretence, they were generous & liberal in the extreme. Thus showing, that although they understood how to “get money,” they did not know how to “keep” or dispense it to advantage on their own account.

The Gells were an easy-going lot. So long as there was sufficient, they were indisposed to exertion, whilst their energy was at a low ebb.

They were a jolly-hearted, free-and-easy class were the Gells, as well also the Sherwoods. Once introduced into company, where jokes and amusing conversation were on the tapis, they were immoveable from the spot, till the landlord closed the taps, or their companions left them “alone in their glory.” Yet, they were not “deep

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drinkers,” but, for the love of the thing, they enjoyed miscellaneous meetings, & were always in the first rank as conversationalists, reciters of anecdotes, or in singing a song – or, if Methodists, any number of hymns.

Those who were strictly religious, were never at a loss in prayer-meetings or love-feasts, & they were adepts in being able at all times to join in offering up prayers, wh. were often very excellent & beautiful. More particularly was this the case with Thos. Gell (of Knaresbro’,) Edward, & our own dear mother Margaret Gell (Bell). Uncle James Gell, of Hollym, was drawn into marriage by a sneaking person, who had got by heart “one prayer,” which she used to repeat in tremulous tones, or extra gusto, when the congregation around re-echoed “Amen!” “Glory!” “I feel the power of the Lord in our midst!” & such like exclamations; but she never “got another off” when she became a wife! She was a queer hussy.

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Caution & Foresight the Gells possessed none whatever. Like most impulsive folks, they spouted their full minds without thought, & never were in the habit of weighing results by expression of opinion, or looking a-head to avert misfortune by calm reflection or soliciting Advice from the best quarters. Self-opinion-ated, they thought it amply sufficient to rely upon themselves & their own straightforward, honest ideas of dealing, wh. often led to serious misfortunes, wh. others would overcome with ease, whilst the Gells would be thrown into the greatest trouble or confusion.

Brought up in country districts, the Gells were unfitted for town-life. Here, they were mere shuttlecocks, to be played with at pleasure by those who fancied they could “squeeze” anything out of them; in fact, they appeared silly-good-natured for the time being, but were loud in lamentations & surprise, when “dropped upon” by the more wide awake. This was a universal failing of the Gells; &

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it is a doubtful point whether the above (or preceding paragraphs) is not applicable to a great extent to at least some of the Bells – that is, the failing was handed down to the next generation. Let us hope that this particular shortcoming will end with the Bells of the present day, & that their successors will cultivate the qualities of caution & foresight – if possible.

The writer of this book has, unfortunately, to plead “guilty” to the failings herein enumerated of the Bells & Gells; & after half-a century has passed over his head, even yet feels himself to lack what is desirable of foresight, caution, & bold, plodding, self-reliant energy so necessary to contend with the world & its difficulties.

The Gells were farmers, as before stated, but of the very worst description. As managers of their crops & stock, they were short-sighted & helpless. They were incapable of turning anything to the best

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account, & were always in poverty. It was of small moment to them whether the seasons were favourable or adverse – whether the crops were good or bad, or whether the animals – horses, cows, calves, pigs, or poultry – lived, multiplied, or died – the position of the Gells never improved. They were always in the slough of Despond, & could never get out of the rough cart-ruts of their locality. In farming they were slovenly, careless, & without energy. If one of the Methodist local preachers paid them a visit, any of the Gells were at their service, either with a “cup o’ tea” & a fatty cake upon a girdle – made of cream, milk, or butter – or a horse to convey them to some other “station” upon the Wesleyan “plan.” The man who succeeded the Gells upon their farm is doing well.

The living at the Gells farm was of rather a queer sort, as well as singular. For instance, they seldom had a bit of decent-made bread – hot, tough, water-cakes were baked every morning to breakfast, with bacon in a brown dish, into wh. every one “dipped in” their cake in lieu of butter. Sometimes the bacon was ill-cured, & of rancid taste, with a smell not unlike ancient brown cod-liver oil, with wh. tanners dress their leather! Sheeps’ heads, scragg-shoulders of mutton, fatty pieces of bony beef or salted junck, along with equally fat bacon, were the substitutes for dinner, with an unlimited quantity of thin broth. When vegetables were in season, they were then a prominent feature upon the table, turnips forming a striking-rank-and-file

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array. As for “dumplings,” or suet-puddings, their name was legion. Roasts were of great scarcity, & a “treat” only to be realised at distant intervals. They were poor cooks, bad schemers, improvident when they had the means, & totally incapable of providing for future emergencies.

The Gells were kind-hearted but thoughtless. I will give one example. When the writer was a boy of eleven years of age, he had his right collar-bone broke by the kick of a horse. He went about the farm & village with his arm in a sling for ten days, they no doubt thinking the bone wd. heal up & be all right. There being no chance of this, the Gells resolved that the dislocation & fracture could not be set right without a walk to Hull of eighteen miles there & back. No sooner settled than away uncle James & his nephew trudged from Hollym to Hull, the youth wincing at every step he took with pain, so that when they reached their destination – wh. they did at 12 o’clock at noon on a Sunday – the boy was in the most excruciating pain. The swelling had increased, the doctor could not perform his task, & the pair “had to wait” till the puffiness went down. As luck would have it, the boy was saved the trouble of walking back on the same day, as originally fixed; & the bone setter did his work on the Monday. Uncle & his nephew walked back from Hull to Hollym on the same afternoon, both being in the greatest trepidity that the joint would again become displaced, & with great pain. This showed a want of

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thought & consideration, but was no part of their intentions to be unkind, or exacting.

A similar break occurred of expecting too much from the same boy when 12 years of age, & that was a walk from Selby to Knaresbro’ – 25 miles in one day; & after a day’s rest at the latter place, before the stiffness had worn off, walking from Knaresbro’ to Norton, a distance of 45 miles, in another day. When the pair reached the far end of the journey, the boy was used up, & suffered for sometime afterwards with blistered feet & stiffened limbs.

Dozens of other exactitudes in the farming line could be enumerated, but ‘tis useless, although the events are still vividly impressed upon the memory, after 44 years have passed away since their infliction.

The conversation of the Gells was always directed to Methodism, conversions at revival meetings, &c. If a new tune chanced to come into the district, they wd. hum-drum on for weeks & months till got off. For instance –

“Canaan, bright Canaan,We’re bound to the land of Canaan,Canaan is a happy place,We’re bound to the land of Canaan.”

A verse like the above was sufficient food & excitement for a couple of years – the first one being spent in getting the tune & words, & the next in blazing forth in chapels, lovefeasts, or in ploughing, harrowing, foddering-up, or driving horses along the wretched roads.

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They well versed in stories about ghosts & hobgoblins of all descriptions, & would sit aghast for hours listening to “a stunner.” Anything in the shape of a frightful object “dressed in white” – all mouth & eyes, with teeth about a foot long, & glaring eyeballs, the creature to resemble an insect called Jacky-long-legs, in male or female attire – was sure to be a “taking subject! Or a lot of imps, sitting round a fire, being frightened away by the sight of a Bible or a quotation therefrom; or even a poor sheep in a stack-yard was enough to “make them believe” that the devil was not far off! I have heard repeated, dozens of times, ridiculous tales about coffins walking without legs or feet along the highways, & of coves with no bodies and immense long legs – something after a pair of tongs seven feet long. What is more, the Gells & the whole neighbourhood “believed” such nonsense, in addition to alarming others who did not. Many a boy has been so much alarmed at these hobgoblin tales, that he dared not venture out in the dark, expecting to be “embraced” every moment by some imp or other with club feet, or made up of nothing else but legs & wings, a long tail, & who left in his wake a strong smell of brimstone! The above are facts.

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Births, &c., of the sons & daughters of John & Margaret Bell, of Patrington, &c., from the year 1813 to 1833.

1. Wm. Bell , born Sep. 22nd 1813.2. James Bell , born Nov. 16, 1844 [sic]; died Jan. 5, 1820.3. Mary Bell , born 29th May, 1816.4. Emma Bell , born 14th March, 1818.5. Thos. Bell , born 16th Sep. 1819.6. John Bell , born 24th April, 1821.7. Edward Bell , born 4th April, 1823.8. George Bell , born 13th Mar. 1825.9. Charles Bell , born 10th Ap. 1827.10. Alfred Bell, born 14th May, 1829.11. Jessy Bell, born 2d. July, 1831.12. Margaret Bell, born 22nd July, 1833; died at Stockton in 1844, aged 11

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over for number of children.

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Number of children born to the sons & daughters of John & Margaret Bell.

1. Wm. Bell – none – unmarried --2. Jas. Bell – died young --3. Mary Bell – none – unmarried --4. Emma Bell – none. do.5. Thos. Bell – Six 66. John Bell – Two 27. Edward Bell – none --8. George Bell – none – unmarried --9. Charles Bell – Six 610. Alfred Bell – Five 511. Jessy Bell – (Saint) – one 1

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The above are calculated up to the 5th of January, 1869.-- Wm. Bell.

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[Newspaper clipping: “In Affectionate Remembrance of John Bell, of Middlesbro’, who died Nov. 22, 1867, aged 80 years …”]

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Pedigree of The Bell, Henderson, & Gell Family, for the past 200 years, with brief sketches of their prominent characteristics, & the moral to be drawn from their shortcomings, open-hearted generosity & sensitive natures.

Commenced April 12th 1868. By Wm. Bell, from facts supplied by Uncle Wm. Bell, at Brancepeth, & John Bell, of Middlesbro’ (the writer’s father), as well as Charles Bell, of Middlesbro’, Yorks, draper.

There is no fact more prominent in general society than this, that not one man in a hundred can trace his forefathers beyond a couple of generations. We may some of us live to know our great grandfathers, & remember them in the last stage of decrepitude, with some small pleasures linked with their memories. As a rule, those who are favoured with the remembrance of an aged great-great grandfather, seldom feel an interest in inquiring his antecedents, his place of birth, or anything respecting his predecessors. The chief

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and only source of reference is the old family Bible, with the date of birth of the children of the then generation which is passing away when we, as youngsters, are budding into maturity; & those who only can communicate, doubtless, many interesting characteristics of all families, are numbered with the dead, ere their successors feel any interest as to the origin, birth, place of residence, or occupation of their immediate family connexions.

To be sure, it may be argued that such surveyings and contemplations are useful only to each particular family themselves, & of no interest to any one else; & this is really the case. Yet, no one can deny that, to those who feel a pleasure in wandering o’er certain localities which were endeared to us by youthful frolics & fond remembrances, it is no drawback to know that within the same district flourished & lived to a green old age our grandfathers & grandmothers, for centuries long past. Doubtless, one principal reason why so few in the middle or lower classes of society have undertaken so easy a task as continuing the links in the chain of family marriages & connexions has been, a want of education, & the difficulty of being able to express what might otherwise have been

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interesting to those following them; as well as the common idea that—“When I am gone, nobody will care,” or “I can’t be bothered.” But, to contemplative minds, the bare chronicle of families who can trace their pedigrees in certain localities for 300 or 400 hundred years, is one of unusual interest, as well as the various trades or occupations they followed. If this system had been adopted, many intricacies would have been presented, & numerous gaps would have been supplied, which are now past filling up.

With these few introductory remarks, I will now proceed to sketch an outline of the Bell, Gell, & Henderson family for the last 200 years back.

Forty years ago (1820), I felt an interest on this question, & have many times listened to both grandfathers & grandmothers reciting the histories of their predecessors. (As will be seen, ere I conclude, all these grandas & grandmas lived to a venerable age.)

First John Bell

About the year 1630, the first John Bell was born at Brancepeth, five miles from Durham, & died there, at the age of sixty-eight. So far as can be traced, this was the first of the Bell family in the district of Brancepeth. This John Bell sprung

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originally from out of Westmoreland, where it is believed his father followed the occupation of a farmer. The first named was born at Finans, or Finings. Throughout Cumberland, Westmoreland, & Northumberland, the name of Bell is one in very common use. Successor followed successor, & all resided in Brancepeth or vicinity, for upwards of 240 years. Where did the Bell’s spring from? Kendal, in Westmoreland, is named as the place from whence the Bells cropped out, where they officiated as farmers & cordwainers. John Bell, of “Bell’s Life in London,” was a relative of this first-named John Bell, & it is evident “the young man from the country” found the occupations of the provinces too limited for his capacity, & stepped from the limits of parental control to the world at large. Of course, at that time of day, it was a far more difficult & venturesome feat to perform than at present, & the man who ventured to face the difficulties which surrounded him when leaving the parental roof, was looked upon as a prodigy on his return. Perhaps it is not too much to say, that before risking a journey to London 150 years ago (at present, 1868), a man would require as much preparation & thought as he would now if

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going to the north pole, or as a missionary into the deserts of Africa! Therefore, it may be safely assumed that this John Bell (of “Bell’s Life”) was a man of pluck, with no small amount of energy & talent, however light might have been his pockets.

Links in the Bell Family.

The next step is another of the Bells, who was born at Brancepeth in the year 1685, who also followed the business of a shoemaker, kept a cow, & did a little in the gardening & farming line. He never was from Brancepeth as a resident, but lived & died there. He had some property at Ash [i.e. Esh], about four miles north of Brancepeth. This property consisted of a public house, another house (now a grocer’s shop), and a field, which descended to his son, “Willie Bell,” the father of John & Wm. Bell, the first the father of the generation now (1868) living, & the second, uncle, now (1868) residing at Brancepeth, aged 82.

Willie Bell our Grandfather

William Bell (commonly & best known as “Willie Bell o’ Brancepeth”) was also born at Brancepeth, in the year 1756; died 11th November, 1848, aged 92 years. I have thus arrived at data within my own

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recollection. This grandfather (“Willie”) was a curious “character” in his way – a generous, jolly-hearted John Bull, weighing about 20 stones, but active & quick in his movements as many men of lighter weight. He carried on the shoemaking trade, as well as having a field & garden at Brancepeth; but the “bit o’ garden” was his pride. He was famed far and wide for the production of “fine gooseberries” and “bonny” roses. Nothing gave him also greater delight than to witness the springing up of cabbages & turnips, which he prized more than tongue could tell. Early & late he worked in his garden, & was ever on the alert for “anything fresh” from Durham, in the shape of a promising plant, new “sets” o’ potatoes, big-looking peas or beans, or “nice young” gooseberry stems. In the years 1825-6-7, he seldom missed, at the proper seasons, to send or “waddle” to Durham, to inquire or ferret out any new products from the seed merchants; at the same time, he kept his “eye” upon the price of leather, of which he was an excellent judge. A bit of “kip,” “calf,” or “hide” leather, he only prized next to his garden, which was ever his guiding star – his down-laying & uprising. In the

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floral & horticultural classes he won the admiration of all; & seeing that “old Willie” took such great delight in these productions, he was often favoured with choice gifts from Hardwick, Ravenswath, Raby, & Lambton Castles, by the various gardeners connected with those establishments, as a particular favour. It was a treat to see the brisk old 20 stone man start on his mission to the various halls and mansions in the district to deliver his stock-in-trade of boots and shoes. A day or two of preparation was required before Willie could be got into full trim. Top boots were then the fashion, & these it was absolutely necessary should be burnished up – the tops brightened with milk or cream, with sometimes the yolk of an egg, whilst the very best of Warren’s blacking was indispensable to give “a gloss” to the lower parts. But, though all was trim as trim could be, there was often a hitch arose before the old boy was fairly started – a dark cloud would delay him for another day, or a sudden impulse of excitable temperament would reverse his exit on his cherished errand; & then, all the preparations had once more to be repeated, much to the chagrin of the domestics. When these mishaps did occur, the old

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man was not in the best of tempers, but silently meditated when & how he should avoid the difficulties in future. He became what the district terms “glum,” and nursed his wrath. He was a strong, powerful, healthy man, about 5 ft. 6 in. high, but bulky in his proportions. His constitution was of the best; no bilious or nervelessness ever affected his vigorous frame, unless it was that in his “rounds” with his stock of shoes, &c., he imbibed too many “horns” of strong ale – a beverage of which he was passionately fond. He seldom partook of spirits, unless it was a “drop o’ whiskey,” to bring him round after his visits to his customers. A trifle upset him, & he imagined his health was indifferent, if he could not at any hour of the day eat “a rasher o’ bacon” & a goodly stock of bread. “Drat this wind!” he used to exclaim, in the most comical manner, clapping his hand upon his Sir-John-Falstaff-like paunch; “it’s allays botherin’ you, & stoppin’ you fra deein’ ought!” He fed his own pigs, & always kept a good supply of bacon for home-use, the hams being sold to pay expenses. There always being plenty of garden stuff, “broke” was a favourite dish for the household and apprentices. He was a man of a taciturn or “close” disposition, except when taking his drops at the village inn at Brancepeth or elsewhere; then he became

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what is usually termed “jolly” – talkative, in the most sarcastic & funny way, his immense size giving a gusto to his jokes, whilst his rubicund features & shaking sides increased the effect – after the style of honest Falstaff. (The village inn was suppressed about the year 1854, by Lord Boyne, who married Miss Russell.)

Willie Bell’s home

Willie Bell lived at the last house on the left hand side in Brancepeth, in going from the castle, where there are several houses together. The railway now (1868) crosses the field which he formerly occupied, & in which was the cow-byre. His garden was at the back of the house, adjoining the plantation. In those days, men lived more within their domestic circles than at present. Railways were then unknown, whilst newspapers were scarce & high priced – the price varying from 7d. to 11. each. The old Newcastle “Courant & Hue & Cry” was the great resort for all the village politicians, & a poor affair it was, compared with the newspapers of the present day. (Having had the privilege of reading the first volume of the Newcastle Courant, it may be of interest to state, that the size was as nearly as possible like this sheet upon wh. I am writing, containing four pages. The Courant was first published in 1711, & is one of the oldest papers in existence.) The ex-

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citing period of the French wars war [sic] – from 1789 to 1815 – were meagerly defined in newspapers; & country people lived an easy-going, unexcited existence. One week was an epitome of a year, & one year similar to its predecessors, with small variations & exceptions. Good living & a jolly Christmas were the festivities mostly enjoyable. A visit to the castle, with the offer of a few horns of ale, was a memorable event, to be gazed upon with pleasure in the past, & looked forward to with interesting enjoyment in the future.

The Grub of those times

The living in this primitive mode mode of life was on a par with the mode of slowness of life – “early to bed, early to rise” was the motto, fully carried out. Leaven brown bread was the common staple article; “crowdy,” or thick oatmeal porridge, with a basin of milk, comprised the breakfasts & suppers of the apprentices; broth, from bacon & sheeps’ heads, or necks of mutton, with plenty of carrots, turnips, & cabbages, & “fine meally ‘taties,” varied the set-outs at dinner; but, on a Sunday, an occasional treat of roast beef (salted), with an extra treat in the shape of a cup of tea. One or two newspapers sufficed for the perusal of the whole village, & they were read in turns, oftentimes the active politicians or news mongers, met

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at grandfather’s shop, or at old Ephraim Hall’s, the learned schoolmaster & parish clerk of Brancepeth, discussing the prominent & stirring events of the hour over a penny or halfpenny dip candle. The preservation of the health of these old fogies was a great point with them, & they were partially enamoured with fresh air & exercise, of which they secured an unlimited proportion. No matter what business might be on hand, their usual stint of a brisk walk must not be interfered with, or a turn into the garden, or a look at the cow & pigs. Keeping bees was also included in their avocations, which was a source of profit as well as of interest. In the summer time there was the haymaking to attend to, whilst in winter there were the pigs & the cow; & thus time slipped pleasantly away, so that

“Three-score summers, when they were gone,Really appeared as short as one.”

And thus it is Life wears away, & thus it is we ought to make the most of it whilst we may. So generation succeeds generation, until units are multiplied into numberless branches, & all remembrance is effaced of the

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existence of those we once cherished & knew so well. I need not go further on this subject, but will merely add, that it is an historical fact, that for years long gone by – if not for ages – the country shoemakers’ & the tailors’ workshops were general rendezvous, wherein village politicians debated and (perhaps “settled”, as they thought) cavilled over the affairs of the nation. So much is this the case, that there are caricatures innumerable, wherein the sons of St. Crispin are represented in the heat of a political dispute, with specs on nose, his everlasting leather apron up to his chin, & his implements of trade scattered upon or around “the seat”, nearby being two or three long-headed old coves, whom one would almost imagine assumed they possessed one-half of the world’s intellect, & that everybody else were of no account! As an instance how afraid old Willie Bell (& others of his ancient type) was of running into danger, I may mention, that he could never be induced to enter a boat upon a river, unless he could be persuaded he could “see the bottom! & that it wasn’t out of his depth, so that he might be able to walk out if the boat was upset!” Said he – “Ye’ll nut catch me leaving solid land to swim at top o’t water! There’s nea telling what may happen – a storm

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might come on of a sudden, or ‘t’bottom o’t boat might drop out! Nay, nay, let me be where I can feel my feet!” Thus, we have another instance of the desire to live as long as possible, even though, to the world as at present constituted, some would say the old boys led a listless & weary life, in the absence of the excitement & temptations now prevalent in large towns. But it was not so. Never having been accustomed to scenes of reckless inducement, they craved not after them, & felt no pleasure in their midst. Home felicity & good fellowship with their neighbours were the delight of our ancestors, & are so still in numberless localities away from our large hives of commercial & manufacturing industry; & may such similar phases of happiness long continue! In the first part of this sketch of Willie Bell, it is mentioned that he inherited some property from his father, which was situated at Ash Esh, near Brancepeth. Old Willie sold this property for £240. It has been in the possession of a brewer for about 40 years, who lives (1868) at Whickham, near Newcastle-on-Tyne. The brewer would not take £700 for it now. Of course, old Willie’s sons styled the sale of this property as “the most foolish thing in the world;” but that the “old gentleman did foolish things occasionally, espe-

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cially when he got drink.” No doubt of it, but he doubtless did it for the best at the time. He disposed of this property during the turmoil of the American, or French, wars, when property was much depreciated in value, & taxes were a heavy burden upon the people. Old Willie Bell spent the latter part of his days in a hospital at Cornsea Cornsay, near Brancepeth – a place set apart by Mr. Russell & endowed, for 6 old men & decayed or debilitated tradesmen 6 old women who had worked upon his estates. The old boy never felt happy in this domicile, comfortable though it is, with a separate house provided for each. He “longed” with pathetic yearns to re-visit Brancepeth, & so long as his strength permitted, he was to be seen wandering through the village, & calling upon old friends to whom he had been so long & familiarly known. But an entire new generation had sprung up ere Death called him away, & he “seemed like one who stood alone,” & bereft of all solace, in the absence of the kindred spirits of his earlier days, who had long, long ago been called to their final doom. As before said, he lived to the age of 92, & died at Cornsea Cornsay, on the 11th of Nov., 1848. The old gentleman (I believe) was buried in Brancepeth churchyard – one of the loveliest spots amongst the many in rural old England. Peace to his memory.

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The aforesaid Willie Bell married his wife in the year 1785, when he was 29 years old. Her maiden name was Mary Henderson, & she was born at Hamsterley, 12 miles from Brancepeth. Wm. Henderson (father’s grandfather, on his mother’s side) was a carrier from Hamsterley to Newcastle-on-Tyne & back, whilst his father was the same before him (this was in 1785). Willie Henderson was said to be the oldest carrier in his day who stood on the Sandhill at Newcastle, & was one of the true yeoman type. Willie Bell became acquainted with Miss Henderson in this way – Wm. Henderson being a carrier, used to carry goods to a Brancepeth grocer, named Miss Thirkill. This Miss Thirkill being in want of a servant, Henderson recommended his daughter in the ab capacity, & she was accepted. Here Willie Bell & Mary Henderson became acquainted, which ripened into affection, & they were united in the bonds of wedlock at Hamsterley Church, the birthplace of Mary Henderson. Willie & Mary Bell had the following children:-- William Bell, born at Brancepeth, 1786 (still residing there, aged 82 – in 1868); John Bell, born

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29th Aug. 1789; & Geo. Bell, who died at the age of 18 months. It is somewhat singular, that Uncle Wm. Bell is residing at present (1868) in the very same house from which his mother, Miss Henderson, was married to his father, & has lived there for between 30 & 40 years; & it is highly probable will die there. Old Willie Bell’s wife – that is, the grandmother to the children of Wm. & John Bell – was a very deserving woman. She was a really kind creature, but of delicate health for the last 20 years of her life. Poor thing, she was sorely afflicted with a stroke of palsy, which enfeebled her whole constitution, & she was unable to hold her head in a still position, for many years before her death she died. She was a truly pious woman, & earnestly embraced the doctrines of Wesleyanism. When she was a young woman (1775 to 1780) John Wesley was actively employed throughout the country in conversion & deeds of worth, & Methodism laid the foundation for religious worship in many benighted hamlets & country districts wh. had never before felt the earnestness & warmth of zeal for the soul before John Wesley awakened up their dormant faculties. Prayer meetings & preachings were held at old Willie Bell’s house, through the influence of his wife & son Wm. Bell. At this time (1820) there was no chapel or school-room

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in Brancepeth, wherein to hold forth, except Ephraim Hall’s, wh. was a damp, uncomfortable place. Therefore, up to 1827, & perhaps for long after, meetings were held at the different houses in the village where Methodism was the favoured religion. At old Willie Bell’s there was a pulpit – a sort of square box affair, with shelf for the Bible & Hymn Books – & the floor stood about a foot from the ground, so that the preacher was slightly elevated over the heads of his hearers. Indeed, if the pulpit had been raised much more – that is, the floor – the preacher would have been in danger of hitting the rafters above with his head (wh. would have been rather dangerous hazardous, particularly with the very excitable class of what are termed “local preachers.”) The “pulpit” stood in the corner facing the entrance door, & occupied about the same space as an enclosed desk (or shut-up) bed. The “pulpit” had only two sides & a front, so that the preacher had merely to “step in behind,” and go a-head. No doubt many a clever sermon was poured forth from this rostrum, & many hearts touched & sinners converted. The lights provided were a penny-dip candle on each side of the preacher, wh. swung round upon two bent pieces of wire, soldered into two tin-candlesticks. It used to be part of the writer’s duty to “assist” in bringing the “pulpit” out of the corner to the other end of the

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room near the fireplace, but he never relished the job; ditto to replace the tub in its usual corner of abode during the week-days. It was a treat to see old Willie Bell singing on Sunday nights, with his hands in his Kerseymere breeches pockets – the latter of immense proportions, corresponding with the size of the man, capable of holding half a peck of garden peas – & observe the “twang” through his nasal organs & the shutting of his eyes! But, dear old granny was no singer, but devoted & earnest in the cause of religion. She died on the 28th of July, 1835, aged 82 years, & was buried in Brancepeth churchyard.

Connected with the Wm. Bell at present (1868) at Brancepeth – son of old Willie Bell & Mary Henderson – is a fact worthy of note, wh. is from the lips of the first-named Wm. Bell, & guaranteed as authentic. I will give it in his own words:-- “My grandfather Bell – that is, your (Charles Bell, son of John Bell, & brother to Wm.) great grandfather grandmother , lived at a place called Leasingthorne, as servant with a farmer. Duke William, son of George II., was on his way (in 1746) from the south to meet the Scots at the Battle of Culloden. In going down a hill near Leasingthorne, the carriage wh. contained the Duke was upset. Upon the occurrence of the accident, the Duke scrambled out as best he could. Observing a number of people near at hand, he called out lustily – “Come, lads, & give us a lift with the carriage, & I’ll help you with it!” The request was obeyed, the vehicle was hoisted into its proper position, & the Duke & party proceeded on

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their journey. In the overthrow of the vehicle, the window was broken, & my grandmother – that is, old Willie Bell’s mother – picked up one of the pieces of glass that was left on the ground. She got it silvered & made into a looking-glass, & that same glass is now in my possession. As it is a family relic, I will make you, Charles Bell, son of John Bell, a present of it, as an heirloom of the Bell family.” (1868.)

William Bell, son of old Willie & Mary Henderson, was born in 1786, at Brancepeth, & lived there all his life. He, too, followed the craft of his father, & was a shoemaker. This trade seems to have been a favourite one with the Bells, as they can be traced as “sticking to their lasts” for several generations – for 240 years – & all in the same locality. They seemed to inherit the idea of being good judges of leather, & fully carried out the old adage – “There is nothing like leather! All else is salts and prunella.” And by this we cannot fail to observe how at least one of a family is invariably brought up to succeed to the trade of the parent, whatever that trade may be – at least, in country villages. So far as we have been able to observe – & our personal evidence extends as far back as 1756, to old Willie Bell, who was born in that year, & died in 1848 – the Bells

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were all of a plodding sort. None of them seem to have relished the idea of leaving the locality in which they were born & bred, but stuck to their tether. A vein of rich humour was observable in the oldest stem with wh. we have been acquainted. 50 years ago, we observed the same characteristic wh. now runs through the whole. To bring up a son to follow his father’s trade, seemed as common as in every-day life to name the first-born after his dad – thus we have a never-ending clatter of “young Willie” & “auld Willie,” “auld Tommy” and “young Tommy,” “auld Charley” and “young Charley,” &c. &c. As we may again be excused in repeating, we cannot forego the impression that our forefathers generally were men of mettle, perseverance, industry, & well-endowed with the hard common sense to be found in the sphere in wh. they moved. Their essential aim was that of a long life, & an easy, take-it-at-pleasure existence. If they felt an afternoon’s nap to be desirable, the resolve to enjoy an hour’s sleep was no sooner made than accomplished. The even tenour of their daily life was undisturbed by reflections about “to-morrow,”

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or what “would become of them” by leaving “all things to fate.” Their minds were so comfortably balanced, & their small desires so limited, that at any hour of the day it was nothing surprising to hear tell, or see, the old fogies, in a glorious slumber, or snoring at pleasure in the arms of Morpheus! We can’t afford this liberty in large towns. The mind is constantly on the rack, whilst our physical energies are stretched to the utmost. Never was it our province to see this system carried out to greater perfection than in that of the Bell family; & to this simple fact we partly attribute their long lives – 80, 82, 92, & so on. We do not mean to imply that they were not hard-workers in their day, but that when well advanced in years, this taking of daily siestas was their daily practice – and, at once we admit, a very good one too, when a fellow has the chance of carrying it out, more particularly if a man is of a full, heathery habit of body. This “dosing” after dinner was one of the greatest delights of old

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and young Willie Bell, as well as of John Bell, the son & brother of the preceding. It is perhaps not out of place to observe, that in country places as a rule, it is customary for every one to weigh well what he is going to do before spending money lavishly. By town’s people, village & outlying populations are looked upon as “close-fisted;” and what is more, they (country folks) have a certain way of showing this characteristic, wh. is not always agreeable to the reckless townsmen, who have frequently more ready cash at command. This chary feeling of want of open-heartedness & generosity often goes hard against the villagers of the yeomen class, without allowance being made for the main point, that there is naturally a reserved-ness amongst country people – if not a suspicion – which has no existence in a townsman; & for this simple reason, that the greater freedom of communication & variety of mixed assemblies chafes away – if not eradicates entirely – suspicious apprehensions, & a worldly-minded man of experience always “appears” to be free-and-easy, whether it is his natural disposition or not, whereas it is the

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very reverse with a countryman. This is a simple explanation of what we have ourselves witnessed thousands of times; & it is thus we account for the apparent coldness of reception, the indifference of appreciation about anyone’s else affairs but their own, that we have noticed in the Bell family towards their near relatives. Their usual bearing evinces an effort to be even civil, to say nothing of being generous – yet they undoubtedly, they perhaps possess all the “good qualities” in their hearts, only they have a queer way of showing them. A natural “shyness” ever pervades those who have been only accustomed to mix in country life; even a certain “clownishness” is observable, wh. can be accounted for only by being deprived of the privilege of greater communication & interchange of sentiment with their fellow-men. Yet, no one can deny the earnestness & warm-hearted fellowship of all who are familiarly acquainted with those brought up to a country life. There is no deception or trickery, but everything is straightforward & candid, & when invited to partake at their festive board, the ample provision bids you wel-

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come, & “What will you have?” “Make yourself at home;” or “Help yourself,” are the biddings of the host in thorough sincerity, & nothing affords the host & hostess more pleasure than to see their invited guests enjoy themselves. It will not be their fault, if you don’t get a belly full, without a grudge. It is a question of some moment, however, whether this natural reserve on the part of country people is not more serviceable & profitable than the assumed generosity of townspeople? At any rate, it would be no difficult task to cite innumerable instances where people & families have been utterly ruined by tea parties, dinners, suppers, & invitation-visitors, as “friends,” for whom perhaps those “inviting” did not care one straw. The first introduction or solicitation – “Come, you’ll stop & have a cup o’ tea,” has been the thin end of the wedge merely, but has led to the ruin of hundreds of families, by people with elastic consciences “palming themselves” upon those who did not want their visits. (As it is likely there will be a few remarks to the same effect with regard to others connected with the Bell & Gell family, I will say no more at present. I will leave it to those who read this to define the settlement of the above query.)

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[Newspaper clipping, pasted over some of the text: “Durham Chronicle. Friday, December 21, 1883. Brancepeth. The late Mr. William Bell …”]

The deceased Wm. Bell, above named, resided all his life at Brancepeth. For upwards of 10 or 12 years, deceased was blind, & confined to bed. His

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appetite & health were good to within a fortnight of his death; he was jolly, talkative, & his memory most remarkably being able to repeat events of the most important & trivial character, for fully 90 years past! Within 12 months of his decease, he has often repeated that there was not a single occurrence of any moment but what he could recal [sic] to mind correctly, & recite, with their varied circumstances, anecdotal & historical. He was a good mimic,

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& pourtrayed his numerous local friends to the life, in action & the dialect of the district. He weighed about 20 stones, & was ponderous but active. His temper was variable – impetuous – but in his conversational , free & easy moods, he was irresistibly pleasing & funny, jolly & humorous. He was patient under his dire dire afflictions, his only craving desire being that if he “could only read his Bible” he would have been more content. He was a great admirer of John Wesley, & a strict Wesleyan.

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Wm. Bell’s Family, Brancepeth

1. Keziah [i.e. Kezia] Mary Bell, born 12th Feb., 1826.2. Jemima Bell, born Nov. _ 18283. Wm. Bell, b. 15th Dec, 1830.4. Emma Bell, b. 12th Oct., 18325. Clara Isabella, b. Nov. 18346. Priscilla Bell, b. Aug. 25, 18377. John Frederick, b. 1839; died in 1 ½ years

Deaths & Marriages in Wm. Bell’s Family.

1. Keziah [i.e. Kezia] married Rev. R.S.S. Blinkinsopp [i.e. Blenkinsop], rector, Shadforth, widower.

2. Jemima, m. Wm. Rulter, builder, & widower, Willington. D. Aug. 1880.3. Wm. Bell m. Mary Helen Turnbull, widow of Thos. Turnbull, & niece of Jos.

Love, Esq., Mount Beulah, coal owner, Durham, &c.4. Emma Bell, m. Mr. Shipley, schoolmaster, 15th Sep. 1853, widower.

Quarrelled & separated.

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5. Clara Isabella m. Jan. 1867, to John Tindale, widower & one child, clerk, agent, &c., to Lord Boyne.

6. Priscilla, m. Alex. Watson, a Scotch farmer, Kirkcudbright, who died Dec. 1868, leaving Priscilla with two children.

Deaths.

Wm. Bell died July, 1879, buried at Brancepeth.

Wm. Bell, Senior, father of the above, died at Brancepeth, 10th Dec. 1883, in his 98th year, & buried there.

Keziah [i.e. Kezia], 7 children, 2 sons, 5 daughtersMrs. Shipley (Emma), 4 daughters, 2 sons.William jun., son & daughter.Jemima, 6 children, three dead.Clara, 4 born, 2 dead.Priscilla, 2 sons.

See page 30 for further items. (overleaf.)

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Marriages of Wm. Bell’s family, of Brancepeth

Kezia Bell was married to the Rev. Mr. Blenkinsopp [i.e. Blenkinsop], Shadforth, Durham, a widower, with seven children. Kezia was cook during the lifetime of the rev. gentleman’s first wife.

Jemima Bell married Mr. Rulter, of Willington, Durham, a builder, & well-to-do as a tradesman. Jemima worked as a dressmaker for Mrs. Rulter no. one, & afterwards became Mrs. Rulter no. two.

Wm. Bell, jun., married Mr. Love’s niece, a widow, with one child – a girl. Mr. Love’s was a good family to be connected with, so far as influence, wealth, &c., were concerned, in “planting” a man in business.

Emma Bell married Mr. Shipley, a widower, with one son. This individual did not turn out so well as promised, & ultimately “bolted,” & left his wife to pot luck, as well as five or six children. Uncle Wm. called Shipley “a nasty, dirty, mean scoondril, that dissarved hanging.”

Clara Bell married Mr. Tindal [i.e. Tindale], steward cashier, Brancepeth, also a widower, with one girl. Mr. Tindal [i.e. Tindale] holds a good position, & is well respected.

Priscilla Bell married Mr. Watson, a farmer in Scotland, & prosperous in his vocation.

It will thus be seen that the Bells (of Brancepeth) all married – with one exception – to persons of good position, either as tradesmen or engaged in prosperous callings. It is evident that they had either better opportunities of making selections in marriage or were “more wide awake” & calculating than John Bell’s family. (see pages 105 & 106.)

I will leave this question open, for others to form their own conclusions.

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John Bell, the second son of old Willie Bell, was born on the 29th of August, 1788. Upon this subject the writer assumes to speak with greater confidence, insomuch as John Bell was the father of the person now drawing this outline of the Bell & Gell family (Wm. Bell, the eldest son of John & Margaret Bell). This second born son of old Willie Bell was also born at Brancepeth, & was brought up to the shoemaking trade, like his brother William, & that of his father. John appears to have had more sterling “mettle,” than some who have been all their lives accustomed to the droning routine of a simple village life. Nevertheless, for 20 years, he continued to reside under his parents’ roof, working for his living under his father [sic] directions, & in the company of his elder brother, William. So far as can be gathered, John’s life was similar in most respects to that defined previously respecting his predecessors of the Bell family – an easy-going, quiet, plodding, unexcitable existence – “doing all things decently & in order” – “living, moving, and having his being” amongst those who are believed

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by many to spend the most happy & virtuous lives – that is, in the rural abodes of seclusion in dear old England, which charm & elevate, whilst they invigorate & delight, the nerveless denizens of our murky & pestilential towns. We all know how rapidly the first 20 years of a man’s probation pass away; & we can readily believe that, whatever the aspirations of a youth might be, he would not disturb his comfort of mind by too anxious a solicitude to wander away to face the world & its many difficulties, so long as he was well provided for at home. But, on arriving at manhood’s growth, fresh desires often lead to active resolves, & ventures abroad are planned & executed with rapidity. So it was in this case. Hence we find that, in the year 1807, John Bell determined “to risk” leaving his father’s roof, & accordingly made a beginning by a walk to Sunderland. (At this time, John was 20 years of age.) Unknown to his relatives, he took the coach at Sunderland Bridge for the famed city of York. When he arrived at York, he possessed the sum of three-farthings! By this it

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is evident our hero relied more upon his wits or abilities than he did upon gold or silver. But he possessed the satisfactory idea that in York there lived – an uncle. Straightway, John Bell wounded his way to the house of his relative, who proved to be a rough-and-ready, but withal, a considerate & kind chip off the old block. Father found his uncle shoeing a horse, he being a blacksmith by trade. Father inquired of the descendant of Tubal Cain if he had ever been at Brancepeth? In the course of conversation. Father introduced himself to this distant descendant of Tubal Cain; & in the course of conversation, he asked dad Tubal if he had ever been at Brancepeth? “Yes!” replied the son of Vulcan, still working & talking indifferently. “Do you know Willie Bell o’ Brancepeth?” said J. Bell. This & a few similar questions roused the interest of the man of metal, & his indifference was followed by an earnest & inquiring exclamation – “God bless my life! it’s John Bell!” Then followed numberless questions in return respecting

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those residing at Brancepeth, & father was at once familiarly recognised, & an interest evinced for his welfare. John Bell was in due time introduced by his uncle to a son of St. Crispin, of the name of Bridgewater. When John was going through the preliminary inquiries prior to engagement, Bridgewater naturally asked if his adopted charge was a relative? The blacksmith, being an outspoken sort of a character, fond of plain speaking, & an “original” in his way, replied – “Oh! Yee-s! his mother & me both laid i’ one belly!” Poor dad, being “a modest young man from the country, was “quite shocked, & didn’t know where to put his head!” But, if rough in exterior and manners, the blacksmith lacked not in sympathy & advice. Father paid £5 – or, rather, “agreed to pay” – for the privilege of being initiated by Bridgewater into the most approved science of cutting-out & making ladies’ fashionable shoes and gentlemen’s boots. So that here we have the first outline of John Bell’s success in the midst of a multitude of strangers, & amongst scenes to wh. up to that time had been an enigma. No doubt

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he felt considerably elevated by his adventurous success, & resolved on “making the best of it.” But lo! John had not been long in the enjoyment of his new situation, when a letter found its way from Brancepeth, inquiring of the worthy blacksmith if he had heard or seen the run-away. This letter was penned by Ephraim Hall, the village schoolmaster, & was addressed to “Mr. Michael Henderson, Walmgate Bar, (or elsewhere) York – (with speed and care),” & read thus –

“Mr. Henderson, Dear Sir, – A young man, of the name of John Bell, has recently disappeared from this village (Brancepeth), & has left his parents in great distress – particularly his mother. If he has come to your city, a few lines to assure them of his safety will be gratefully received. – Yours truly, Ephraim Hall.”

Father chanced to read this epistle, & was greatly agitated, fearing his prospects were blighted, & all his hopes of becoming “a fashionable” boot & shoemaker nipped in the bud! However, Ephraim’s letter was duly answered – John continued about 12 months with Bridgewater, in York, & then once

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retraced his footsteps to Brancepeth – a man of the world, & highly improved in the secret art of “cutting out” ladies’ & gentlemen’s fashionable boots & shoes! (& perhaps “a wonder” to the surrounding villagers.) On his return home, John Bell became the head-man as designer & fitter of shoes for the district, & doubtless felt highly elevated. Trade increased, & his father “honoured” him as he never done before. Whilst in York, John o’ Brancepeth, was initiated into the “Friendly Institution of Cordwainers. The “card” declaring him a free member & clear on the books, he kept in an old pocket-book till the day of his death, & was “proud” of it, as recalling the scenes of what may be termed his first entrance into the world. The writing on the card reads –

“Dec. 25, 1807 – This is to certify that John Bell is a legal member of the trade, & free of all demands. “As witness, R. Johnson.”

Father had this document in his possession for 60 years, & it was found carefully put away in his pocket-book after his death, Nov. 22nd 1867.

Father continued for four years longer at Brancepeth, officiating in the capacity of foreman & cutter; but towards about the year 1810, an event arose which changed the whole scene of his previous existence. He became enamoured with Margaret Gell, who was fated to be his wife. This most

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important step in a young man’s career is thus described by uncle William Bell, his brother: --

Margaret Gell was ladies’ maid to a Miss Gale. This lady was on a visit to the Russells at Brancepeth Castle, & Margaret accompanied her. As before stated, John Wesley had made Methodism prominent throughout the country, & Margaret Gell was a sincere follower & believer in Methodism. The Wesleyans held prayer meetings & preachings at Brandon, near Brancepeth. Father & his brother attended those gatherings at Brandon, & it was at one of these meetings John Bell first saw Miss Gell. He was “smitten with her charms,” & was in a dilemma as to how to procure her name, whilst she refused the application. By stratagem, John succeeded in obtaining the name of “Margaret Gell” from her hymn-book. An intimacy & correspondence arose between them after Miss Gell left Brancepeth, which continued for some time, & in the year 1812, Nov. 22nd, ended in matrimony. They were married at Patrington church, in Holderness, East Riding of Yorks, & 18 miles from Hull, the Gell family residing at Hollym, 3 miles from Patrington. John Bell’s love grew with its growth & strengthened as time passed on, & on one occasion he paid a visit to Holderness from Brancepeth, which was no small undertaking at that time, when the difficulties of travelling were almost insurmountable & hazardous.

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Connected with this journey of love & affectionate zeal from Brancepeth, uncle Wm. & father often recited the following with great gusto: --

Old Willie Bell had by some means offended Mr. Shaw, the steward of Brancepeth Castle (a sort of king in the village & district). Up to about 1810, old Willie had possessed for a mere trifle a certain part of the wood or plantation wh. contained a large number of apple trees. Mr. Shaw resolved to deprive him (Willie) of this privilege, & not allow him even that year’s produce, wh. chanced to be very plentiful that season. Of course, this conduct of Mr. Shaw’s was a great annoyance to old Willie, as well as a loss in a pecuniary sense. A little dodging was requisite, & John & old Willie used their wits in scheming. “Hoots,” said old Willie, “thowll hae te gan, John, & see what thoo can mek’ o’ that steward. It ’ill be a sad job te loss all that grand crop! Gan’ & Try if thoo can’t win him ower, & get ‘tapples!” John accordingly ventured to speak with the steward. “Well!” said Shaw, “your father shall not have a single apple, but I’ll give them all to you, John.” Highly pleased, John pulled the apples, & sold them for £10. With the profits derived from the apples, John bought a grey pony.

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Upon this pony John rode from Brancepeth to Patrington, on a visit to his future bride. The pony was afterwards sold by John for £24; & the first foal she had after John parted with her, was a fine dappled mule, wh. at four years old was sold for £40. So much for the apples & grey pony, wh. was a constant theme of reference & joke with poor father.

After John Bell & Margaret Gell were united in wedlock, they settled down at Patrington, father continuing his business as cordwainer. In this trade, John Bell imported into the district his scientific acquirements obtained at York, & practised so successfully at Brancepeth. He introduced amongst the farmers’ daughters the “light pumps” & fancy boots, wh. had not then been customary, & did “a roaring trade” for some years. In fact, John was the “head shoemaker” in the locality, & received good prices. At this time (1812) John & Margaret Bell were deemed “a handsome couple;” & both being strict Methodists, their connection was materially increased thereby. But, by & by, other responsibilities arose in the shape of a family, & on the 22nd of September, 1813, their first-born (Wm. Bell) saw daylight. This youngster was born under the roof of grandfather Gell, at Hollym; at the age of seven years, he went to reside there, & was made useful about the farm, up to about 11 years of age, when he

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was marched off to Brancepeth, & sent to school at Brandon for 12 months; then returned to Hollym from Norton, near Stockton, where father & mother had then come to live (1825-6). After 12 months with grandad [sic] in Holderness, this eldest son was budged back to Norton, from which place he was bound apprentice to the printing business with Geo. Wilson, at Knaresbro’, Yorkshire, on the 1st of Jan. 1828. Out of his apprenticeship in 1835, he worked for a month at the Herald & Courant office, in York; left there & walked to Leeds, & from the latter place to Bradford, where he obtained employment at the Bradford Observer office, on the 6th of Feb. 1835, & continued there till July, 1857 – 22 ½ years – with the exception of being a landlord for one year at the Albion 1850-50. After that, he tried to establish himself in business as an auctioneer, & kept a ‘bacco shop, but neither answered his expectations. In the year 1846, he lost the whole of his savings, in a partnership concern, whilst his wages were mortgaged for six-years’ more, by yielding to a foolish persuasion to “pay every body to the uttermost farthing.” The consequence was an uphill game through his after life, wh. said hill proved unconquerable, & “the tide in his affairs” never again reach the flood – it was an omission, & “the whole voyage of his life was bound in shallows” & hard work. In July, 57, W. Bell left the Observer at Bfd, went to reside at Linthorpe & Middlesbro’ as auctioneer & broker, but did not succeed.

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From Middlesbro’ he went to the Advertiser office at Newcastle-on-Tyne, on the 10th. Feb. 1859, as foreman at that office. Here sister Jessy & her son Harry Saint, spent a very happy time for years – the most truly happy & contented from his (Wm. Bell’s) youth up to 55 years of age. Here (in Wm. Bell) is an example of ill fortune or want of proper foresight, or too much reliance upon the “honesty” of others. Wm. Bell made great “mistakes” in aiming too soon to establish himself in business, & joining with others. The first was in 1841, with Swaine & Co., as manufacturers, at Bfd, where all his earnings (or savings) were sacrificed; the second was in taking a public house at Bfd; the third in having a tobacco shop at Bfd; the fourth in beginning as an auctioneer; the fifth in starting an eating-house; & lastly, in leaving a situation to begin business at Middlesbro’ in 1859. All these affairs were undertaken by a man who was unmarried, & with too small a capital to enable him to rely upon his new ventures without working at the trade of a printer. For 30 years, W.B. had on an average 35/- per week, or more; was careful, steady, & attentive to business – was 22 ½ yrs at Observer, & 10 yrs (Dec. ’68) at Advertiser, N’Castle, as overseer. Yet success did not crown his efforts to establish himself in trade as a permanent resident. W.B. was strong in constitution, & was for above 25 years & never lost a day (from ’44 to ’69) thro’ illness, tho’ unsteady & “wild” at Knaresbrough. He “expects” to go off in a “hurry” at the last.

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The second son born to John & Margaret Bell was Jas. Bell, at Patrington, Nov. 16, 1814. He was seriously burnt by his night-gown catching fire, whilst reaching up to the chimney piece, when the fire had been just lighted, & the sticks projecting thro’ the bars. Wm. and Mary Bell were sat beside him kneeling at each end of the fender, when James stud upon the fender, & the draught drew his cotton night-gown to the blazing sticks. This was about seven a.m., the rest of the family being in bed. Father ran downstairs with a piece of carpet, & extinguished the flames; but the patient was improperly treated by the doctor, & the poor boy died on the 5th Jan. 1820. He was buried in Patrington churchyard.

Mary Bell was born was born on the 29th May, 1816, also at Patrington. Mary served an apprenticeship to the dressmaking business at Stockton. Was many years lady’s maid to Lady Richardson at Pitfour Castle, Scotland, travelled with the family on the continent; left Pitfour in 1850 to go to Bradford as housekeeper to Wm. Bell; afterwards endeavoured to live at Bfd. by keeping lodgers; failed in doing so; returned to Lady Richardson in 1854; went into Germany with her; afterwards went to Leeds (in 1866) to act as housekeeper to brother Alfred, after the death of his first wife; removed from Leeds to Bradford with Alfred & commenced a fent-shop in 45, Wakefield Road; did well there, & got nicely settled; was there in 1868, unmarried. Mary derived great advantage from the assistance of Mr.

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Savage, as manager, at Bradford; the business pays well. Mary is very comfortable, & well deserves to be so, after her long servitude & the knocking about she has undergone, ever since she was a girl at Norton. Besides the unsettled nature of her former life, Mary also was too confiding, & lost her savings, once or twice, by lending money to “friends,” who forgot their friendship or regard for the individual when they had secured what was their principal aim at the first, tho’ concealed by an outward semblance of esteem. Mary is generous, kind, & liberal with her money, & has been an inexpressible benefit & blessing to bro. Alfred & his family. Dec. 1868.

Emma Bell was born at Patrington, 14th March, 1818. She removed with the family to Norton, Stockton, and Middlesbro’, & was in these places from 1825 to 1868. Emma was of great assistance to Charles in his shop as a draper at Middlesbro’, in South Street, for many years, until Charles got married. Afterwards, father & Emma lived at Middlesbro’, in a house of their own, till the former died, on the 22nd Nov., 1867. Emma officiated as a dress maker – was unmarried, & living in Middlesbro’ in 1868. Emma deserves the gratitude & thanks of the whole Bell family for her great kindness to John Bell, to whom she administered every comfort in her power, & often under positions of difficulty & limited resources. Emma was the greatest possible solace to father in his old age, & up to his death, in Nov., 1867.

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Thomas Bell, born 16th Sep. 1819, at Patrington. Tom was apprenticed to Messrs. Neesome & Welch, at Stockton, as a fitter & mechanic. This son was a clever fellow, & a genius in his way, nothing coming amiss to his line of business. He went into France as a railway fitter; was there some years; then was employed at Penn & Co’s, noted engineers on the Thames, (Greenwich) London. Thro’ their recommendation, Tom was engaged by the Spanish government to go to Havannah, West Indies, at the Royal Arsenal there, & was upwards of 13 years there. He was engaged at about 20£ a month, which ultimately increased to equal to £40, with numberless pecuniary privileges, a house to live in, & the sole superintendence of his department of the arsenal. Tom at first was aboard Spanish vessels as an engineer, might have done well when afterwards settled in Havannah, but the temptations of high living, fashionable society, & too great a generosity to all comers – almost keeping “open house” for all shades of people, whose “good opinion" was not worth having, but who aided in keeping him poor in pocket, as well as ultimately leading to excesses & excitability, which culminated in Tom's discharge from a very high-class situation. Tom only saved rather better than £1,000 out of his long & dangerous servitude in the climate of Havannah. He ought to have made his fortune, without in any way pinching

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or depriving himself or family; but the Bell family possess an unfortunate heedlessness of “caring for a rainy day.” Though not absolutely extravagant in character, dress, or company, they have a never-failing imperfection in confiding in others, where suspicion & self-elevation ought to be the rule. Like the majority of the Bells & Gells, Tom was of a generous, frank, open-hearted, liberal, disinterested disposition; clever, active, untiring in his duties as a servant, but totally unfit to control his characteristics or shortcomings as a master. He was too easily persuaded in business transactions; short-sighted & easily deceived; with firmness & judgment as a man, he yielded easily as a master to trickery from those around him, who laid schemes that were only exposed to view as time passed on. Hence it was, that he entered into business with a rascally Jew & others at Gravesend as engineers, &c., & poor Tom was “fleeced” of his all, after a year or two of experience. Possessing firmness sufficient to enable him to do all things well for others, he lacked the ability of vigour & tact on his own account. Tom could not see as far for himself as for others, & was self-reliant whilst others were scheming & plotting – confident in his own abilities, whilst his right & left supporters were undermining himself and purse, & he was left penniless. Here, after all the fine chances of securing a handsome fortune, the old shadow of difficulties, peculiar to the Bells, was triumphant, though

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nothing could daunt the spirit, or pluck, of their character. To be a “general favourite with every body,” as the term goes, is to run into danger & temptation. If the Bells possessed a little more of the Scotch principle of evoking to Number One, their pockets would be heavier & their future more pleasant. They would possess the Reality, instead of “the good opinion” only of their neighbours – which is all very well as a personal & flattering conception, but a mere reflection compared with the Substance. For several years, Tom Bell has lived upon his leavings out of what he secured when he retired from his Gravesend connection in business. At the present time (June, ’68), he is working as a joiner, doing odd jobs here & there, in London, whilst formerly, in Havannah his expenses were not less than a pound a-day! What a falling off – what a moral of reflection! Tom “speaks Spanish like a native,” as well as French, is a clever fellow & might have been a rich man, & a blessing to his family. He was twice married, & had three children by his first wife, & three by second. Tom’s great “mistake in life” was his first marriage, & leaving his wife in England when he was at Havannah; whilst his second was in leaving the Spanish Service; but, the greatest of all, his reckless generosity, & total disregard of economising & saving money as a back-set & comfort in his old age on retirement from active business life. At present (Dec. ’68) he is engaged as a master blacksmith in London, & making a living – tho’ meagre. He has been, thro’ life, the worst friend to himself, like some others of the Bell & Gell family. Since the preceding was written, I

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have learnt that brother Tom is carrying on business in London as a master blacksmith, making a living, & doing pretty well. But what a falling off, compared with his former chances in life abroad! With £30 to £50 or more, per month, a house rent free, presents innumerable – even as much as £50 to £100 at once – with every privilege a man could crave for, & yet he was not content! He got a foolish idea into his head, that if he “left the service” of the Spanish government, they would send for him back! & he “imagined” they “could not do without him!” – assuredly, one of the most fatal assumptions any man on earth can possibly entertain. Tom soon found out, however, that his former masters could do a great deal better “without him” than he could without them. And so it happened, that on the very first occasion he launched out to “begin business on his own hook,” as he termed it, Tom was in constant danger of being aground, in the

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long run lost the principal part of his cargo (money), was stranded on the beach, high and dry, with very little ballast left in the hold – that is, brass. No one of the Bell family possessed such rare opportunities as Tom, when in foreign service, but he missed “the current when it served,” & the result is as above explained. What was wanted in Tom’s case, was really to know when he was well off, & make the best of it; but, it is supposed, he thought his prosperity & reign would last for ever, in wh. he was miserably disappointed. There is no doubt that Tom was reckless, thoughtless, & extravagant, when in the midst of plenty, in addition to not being over well-matched to an over-economical partner. When it is recollected that Tom did not receive much schooling as a boy at Hollym, with grandfather Gell, & afterwards became so successful as to receive the appointment in Havannah of such a responsible situation as head en-

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gineer in the Arsenal, we may rest assured he was clever as a workman, & qualified for his task; but – without conduct, tact, & cool judgment, the highest ability must fail in the long run. A greater contrast could not well be imagined than Tom Bell as a boy and farmer’s hack, than Don Tho-mass (Bell) as principal engineer on board ship or in the Arsenal at Havannah! – The boy, with corduroys, thick, ill-fitting shoes, fustian (or red) waistcoat, & a slatternly jacket – made out of the cast-off togs of some one slightly better off than himself – with a red face & dirty nose, trudging wearily to school, or “minding” geese or pigs in stubble fields, driving horses, living upon poor tea or coffee, eating tough cakes or sad bread, chewing rancid bacon & swallowing broth by the gallon made from mawky beef or mutton, or sheeps’ heads! – The man, in

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the West Indies, a little swell, with a large number of men at his beck, all of his own choosing, £30 per month clear of all but his living expenses, & everything that mortal man could desire, yet was he not content, & missed “the tide” in feathering his nest, or laying by sufficient “ballast” for his future necessities! Surely, Tom’s was a chance that occurs only once in a lifetime; & glad should we all be, at even the shadow of such a privilege. It is worthy of remark, that both the Gells & Bells were of a sarcastic turn, & partial to tricks of fun or ridicule. As an instance, the following may be recited:-- When living at Norton, there was a custom of holding “class-meetings,” at the houses of the various members of the Methodists. On one occasion, the turn came for the gathering to take place under father’s roof. On the fact being made known, Tom & John became “curious to know” what was said, & to asertain [sic] how these amicable affairs were conducted, no doubt thinking there was

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a sort of freemasonry of secrecy in the affair, wh. it was well worth their while to explore. Tom & Jack “put their heads together,” and resolved on a plan to unriddle the mystery. In the room where the religionists were to meet, was a cupboard with a door with hinges at the bottom, so that the leaf fell down flap upon the floor from the top. The pair agreed that John should ensconce himself privately in this cupboard before the meeting commenced, to watch the movements of those assembled. All right, & duly settled. Jack took up his position inside; Tom closed the door, but before retiring, he took the precaution to “tie a string” to a knob there was at the top of the door. He then conducted the rope thro’ the window. At length, the gathering was complete, business had got into full swing – hymns had been sung, prayer had been duly offered, & each one was about to give his or her “experience” – all generally been unusually still & quiet at about this time, when Tom gave his “conductor” a sudden jerk from the outside, when down

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went the door of the closet, & exposed Jack to the full gaze of those assembled! Of course Jack felt he had been “sold” by Tom, & was highly indignant at the trick; but Jack “made the best” of his position, for when thus suddenly brought to full view, he had the presence of mind to turn over – & make the assembled company “believe he was asleep!” And he so far succeeded, that old Robert Debron made the remark – “Poor little fellow, he is asleep!” but mother had a different opinion, & was “highly off-ended!” The tell-tale string, from the flap to outside the window, showed there was a design, & mother solemnly shook her head, with the remark, that all concerned richly deserved – “a real good flogging.”

[From this point to the end of page 61n, previously blank pages have been filled in much later, as evidenced by the dates referenced and the more aged handwriting of the author]

Thos. Bell, a clever engineer but reckless & unfortunate in business transactions, died at [blank] South America, on the [blank]

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For Charles additions.

Alfred Bell, son of Thos. Bell, was an engineer on board a Spanish man-of-war, & died on the [blank]

Fill up blanks, or send ‘em.

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Thos. Bell married Isabella Stainthorpe, of Sedgefield, on the [blank]

Isabella had four children to brother Tom – viz.

1. Anne, born [blank]2. Eliza, born [blank]3. Alfred, born [blank]4. Emma, born [blank], died in London.

Fill in blanks.

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Marriages in Tom’s family.

1. Anne, m. Jas. Snowdon, architect, who turned out to be a dissipated, negligent husband & “bolted” from this country. No. of children [blank]

2. Eliza m. Wm. Crow, mechanic, a steady, easy-going fellow, on the [blank]. No. of children [blank]

3. Alfred died unmarried.

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John Bell’s Family, Deaths, &c.

1. John Bell , son of above, engineer in Mercantile Marine, born [blank]2. Meggy, born [blank]. Died on the 2nd Dec. 1883. Married a widower [blank]

& had one child wh. was buried at the same time as its mother, aged (infant), in the same grave.

John Bell, Sen., married a widow & family. After retirement as an engineer on board Spanish vessels, he dabbled in the purchase

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of public houses in London, & the risky speculations proved ruinous, so that in the Spring & Summer of 1883, he was compelled to return to his old trade of engineer on board merchant vessels, sailing from England to Spain, &c. On the illness of his daughter Meggy, in Nov.-Dec., 1883, he resigned his situation to attend Meggie’s deathbed. This daughter Meggie was a handsome, charming girl, with light hair, & died of consumption, aged [blank]. Her father dearly loved her – She was the pride of John’s heart, & he was much affected by poor Meggie’s decease at so early an age.

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Edward Bell married Betsy Pritchard, a Welsh girl, cook, to whom she had one daughter. Ned has been in Australia since 1856-7, photographing, &c. &c. He (Ned) is “fit to turn out” on any land, as a wide-a-wake cove! Ned’s letters from Australia, during the last dozen years or so, are tinctured with the Salvation Army gibberish, full of canting phrases & clap trap, exclamations of “hallelujah!” “glory!” &c., and he has discovered that he (Ned) is a prodigious sinner, & that, to avoid the devil, his imps, & liquid lakes of brimstone, it was necessary to be converted from the error of his ways.

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Mary Bell, residing at Bradford for many years as a draper, Wakefield Road, & previously as a lady’s maid with Lady Richardson, (in Scotland) & others, as well as housekeeper to W. Bell at Bradford. Mary’s manager was Mr. Savage, who died on July 27, 1881, a very worthy servant & strictly honest man, aged 65. After Mr. S’s death, Mary sold off the stock-in-trade, retired to Redcar, took a cottage, furnished, & took in visitors (or lodgers), along with Emma (sister), but they dissolved partnership, & each occupy cottages on their own account at Redcar – happier divided than when in one house united, wh. was not exactly in unison of feeling or action. Mary unmarried.

60m [sic]

Emma Bell, as before stated, is living at Redcar (Dec. 1883), but, previously resided at Middlesbro’, occasionally assisting bro. Chas. in draper’s shop, & dressmaking. Also unmarried.

Geo. Bell, unmarried, no specific trade, here & there & everywhere for his abode. Unsettled in every calling he embraces, & prefers hanging his cap at any port wh. appears to be open – for a bit. At Southampton in 1883. For a blessing, he (Geo.) is likewise unmarried.

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William Bell, printer, Newcastle, for 25 years in Feb. 1884, is an old bachelor, at the age of 70, & formerly at Bfd. For 24 years, is now (after death of uncle Wm. at Brancepeth, on Dec. 1 of 83) the oldest of the Bell & Gell family. There is nothing particular concerning this old stager (except, perhaps his singularity of good health, never having suffered one day’s illness for 40 years, or been absent from his work for 30 years, one week or day, during his acknowledged business hours). This is all the writer feels inclined to say concerning himself – at present (Dec/83). His memory is still good, but he feels “rather shaky” now & then, & is sooner done-up than formerly.

62o

[blank]

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[original early handwriting is resumed]

John Bell was born at Patrington on the 24th April, 1821. He was also apprenticed as a fitter or mechanic, at Neesome & Welsh’s, at Stockton-on-Tees. After being out of his time, he worked at various places throughout England – govt. dockyards, & in the South of England generally. Thro’ the influence of Tom, John procured a berth on board a Spanish frigate as engineer, & was afloat for many years under that govt. More careful than Tom, & being at sea, he saved money; not being subject to the same temptations, John was not led to fraternise so much with “the fashionables” ashore as Tom, besides possessing more sternness & decision of character than Tom. John was well conversant with a highly necessary accompaniment in the world, the ability to say No, & stick to it with sternness. A man trained up to give a positive denial to the allurements in life, is far more likely to succeed than one who runs after every will-of-the-wisp, or is at every one’s beck because he is known to be a singer, a musician, an amusing companion, or “hail-fellow-well-met” at all times. John had more of the stubborn & resolute personal resolve about him than the Bell family generally; fond of a joke, he was yet more practical & far-seeing, with but few superficial notions of fancied pleasures. He entered into business in London as a publican, after leaving service in Havannah where he was for about 10 years. He took care of the shine, tho’ he had not near the chances that Tom had, being generally afloat. He spoke Spanish well, & was a very

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steady-going, reliable fellow. John is a man of few words, & fond of silent contemplation. He is what is termed “one of the quiet brigade.” In 1868, he was living in London, upon his savings. He married a London woman, & had about four children. She was a widow, with a child. – Dec. 1868.

Edward Bell was born at Patrington, 4th April, 1823, & was bound apprentice at Stockton as a pattern maker, fitter, & mechanic. He was an unstable, man-of-the-world, wide-awake (apparently) sort of cove. He was rather flimsy in his notions, with a limited education, & that not turned to the best account. He remained in England till about the year 1859, working at his business in various parts of the country. He was also a photographer, & took a deal of money at the job. In ’59 he went to Australia, first to the diggings, afterwards worked at his trade, then absquatulated into Queensland, where he commenced to “rough it” as a master man, building log huts, dealing in carts & horses, or anything that turned up, by wh. he could clear a sixpence. He sent for a wife (an old sweetheart called Pritchard) from Liverpool. In 1868, he was still in Australia, but held no communion with his family at home (England). He emphatically belongs “to the Saving Brigade,” no one being his guiding star, & all other things Tosh! Perhaps it would have been far better for both the Bell & Gell family – in a worldly point of view – if they had individually paid more

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attention to the Number One, or strictly careful principle; but what is not engrafted, is of difficult growth, and takes a long time to acquire. In the meantime, age increases, experience is dearly bought, & what is seen & taken advantage of by thousands in a pecuniary sense in early life, was left by the Bells & Gells till too late. Many of them studied, & reflected, & schemed, & worked like slaves – mentally & bodily, day & night – but lacked the cool judgment, nerve, & foresight, to stick to what they had clearly earned & saved. To be too confiding in others, is to entail & transmit empty coffers to your children, besides being poor yourselves. It is sometimes easy to get money, but far more difficult to keep it. To lay out money in safe speculations, to bring profitable returns, requires cool judgment & calm estimates as to circumstances. Ned possesses some characteristics it would have been well for others of the Bell family to be master of, & one is – pure carefulness – a feature wh. all ought to feel, though difficult to cultivate who have to face the world & conquer its trials. However “dear” some have to pay for their learning & experience, this landmark seems to be received as no guide for those who follow after; & thus generation succeeds generation, & drop into the same pitfalls as their predecessors. And so will it be, we suppose, to the end of the chapter. – Dec. 1868.

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Having given the names & ages of those children of John & Margaret Bell who were born at Patrington, with their occupations up to the year 1868, it is necessary that I should now revert to the active life of father & mother, whilst resident at Patrington for 12 years, & prior to their removal to Norton, near Stockton.

As before stated, John Bell was deemed a “fashionable” acquisition at Patrington, in 1812, & was well supported throughout the district, in the shoemaking business. Seven children were a serious responsibility, however, and necessitated constant work & attention. Father “stuck to his last,” & added the never-tiring pleasures of his life, “a bit o’ gardening,” to his trade, besides keeping a pig or corn occasionally. In the life of a country village, there is but little variation – one day or year being an epitome of the whole, with few exceptions. Father visited the surrounding district & farmers for orders, who were invariably glad of his calls, as a happy & genial spirit, being partial to anecdotes, & possessed of a happy style in their recital. What would have been a mere round of dullness in his absence, became a jovial & sparkling company in his presence. He could sing & draw happy illustrations from practical experience, wh. were refreshing to those secluded in the country life of an agricultural district. Father had his regular “rounds,” & scarcely a week passed over without a visit somewhere in the locality, & he was always welcome.

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Amongst the prominent topics in the district, was a warm-hearted feeling towards Methodism. Patrington being the market town of the district, was naturally the headquarters; & both father & mother possessed their early love as followers of revered John Wesley, & were prominent & active members of that body. Their house was a sort of refuge for all comers, & “a cup o’ tea,” with accompaniment, was at all times ready, or soon would be. It was no uncommon event to witness upwards of a dozen sat at table on Sundays, in addition to numerous visitors all the week long. In a word, it may be said, that both father & mother were adepts at forming “friendships,” more than at calculating the expense. Real friends, or mere casual acquaintances, were alike received at the festive board. With increase of family came greater expenses, without a corresponding increase of business within so limited a circle. Father saw that the supply did not keep pace with the demand for the support of his family by his business, & tried various expedients to enrich his store, one of which was, that he commenced “the shaving of chins” & cutting of hair on the market days & during the week! This did not answer; & ultimately, difficulties arose with the landlord of the house in the market-place, & he was compelled to leave the most central shop in the town, & take a private house. This step led still further downwards, & to leave

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Patrington was the last resource. This was in the year 1824. From this date all things went amiss to father & his young family of seven children.

The next question was as to where could shelter & a living be found? – where could a “dear home” be founded? Father left Patrington on a searching expedition, accompanied with his eldest son – William – the latter being placed under the care of grandfather Bell, at Brancepeth, Durham. Father then resolved on fixing his abode at Norton; returned to Patrington for the family, & the whole sailed in the Veracity from Hull to Stockton. On the voyage, they were all nearly lost in a storm off Whitby, but were landed all safe.

Father commenced his old trade at Norton, & continued from 1825 to 1837 to reside there. At Norton, father was appointed overseer for the village. This office led to great temptations, absence from business, & other drawbacks. The following sons were born at Norton, & one daughter: –

George Bell, 13th March, 1825, at Metcalfe’s Cottage. This son was apprenticed as a roper, but did not follow that trade, or conclude his apprenticeship. Afterwards, he worked at various occupations, more particularly in the iron trade. He twice visited Australia, & turned his attention to photographing, wh. he followed up to about 1866. George then again worked at the iron trade in Newcastle, for several years, where he was in 1868. At this time Geo. was unmarried, & a quiet, steady, hard-working lad. His peaceable, easy-

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going disposition rendered him a great favourite with the family, & other people generally. He is “fond of money,” but lacks the art also of knowing “how to keep it” – a general failing in the Bell family – Dec. 1868. George is the tallest, & strongest man in the family, but has had to use his great strength to make a living.

Charles Bell was born at Norton, next the Methodist chapel, on the 10th of April, 1827. This son, like all the others, was sent early to work, either in the brickfield – that is, to “carry off bricks,” or other occupations, as errand boy, &c. – at about the age of 10 to 12. This fact is evidence sufficient, that the education of the whole family was but of a meagre description, prior to their being sent adrift to fend for themselves, or aid in bringing home the wherewithal to buy a crust, or in helping to clothe themselves. In 1837, the Bells removed from Norton to Stockton, into Thompson Street. This step was necessary for the convenience of the lads, who were employed at the various factories or machine shops, besides there being better opportunities for work than at Norton. Charles was taken from a more menial servitude to be placed with Mr. Whitfield, draper, Stockton, as errand boy. When Charles went to Mr. Whitfield’s, he was a dark, active, plucky little fellow; full of spirit & pluck, he was not to be kept at bay by his companions, without an effort at resistance, & an attempt to “win the day” at

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whatever game or contest he was engaged in. As the saying goes, “He was not to be put down with a trifle,” but could “stand up for himself,” even at that early age. Chas. became a great favourite with Mr. Whitfield, as a reliable, steady, attentive, studious, honest, straightforward boy. He was never to be found sauntering away his time in back lanes or streets, but had a preference for reading, writing, & the general improvement of his mind. Being placed amongst those daily in his business where superior manners & intelligence were necessary, in transactions with Mr. Whitfield’s customers, he felt the necessity of exertion to advance his knowledge, writing, &c., to place him on a par with his companions in labour. During the whole of his apprenticeship, he embraced every opportunity of instruction, which might be said to depend solely upon his own efforts. At this time, books of all kinds were dear & scarce, whilst the facilities of obtaining instruction were also limited, compared with the present (1868). Still the boy persevered, even amidst the turmoil & mischievous pranks of others of the family, who were less inclined to improve themselves for the future struggles in the world. By the time his apprenticeship was finished, he became a pretty fair scholar. Besides learning his business as a draper, Charles was a favourite with Mr. Whitfield’s young men assistants. He was “not above” doing small menial jobs for those in

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Mr. Whitfield’s employ. For instance, he had “no objection to earn a trifle,” as pocket money, by cleaning their boots & shoes – no doubt using the best of burnishing material, which at that date was made & vended by a well-known character called “Blacking Bobby.” To show that Charles was of an economical turn, it may be mentioned as a fact, that the young men were in the habit of sending him for a three pen’worth of ship biscuits in a morning for luncheon. Charley used to get five-a-penny one over in every three penny worth & had the one biscuit presented to himself for “fetching.” Careful even over his odd biscuit, he did not eat it, but kept it in store, till number five had accumulated he had three penny worth, & then he sold his stock for the penny to the men & pockets the three pence! This little incident speaks highly for the foresight & self-denial of the boy. After his apprenticeship was over, Charles went to Barnard Castle, to Mr. Pulman’s, where he spent, for a short period, one of the happiest portions of his life. Here he formed connexions wh. proved of great benefit to him in after life; & to Barnard Castle he often paid visits whilst in business at Middlesbro’. “The child is the father of the man.” & Charles fully carried out what he had begun as a boy & assistant – the improvement of his mind & general education. He was a great favourite with father & mother, both being “proud” of his cool judgment & discrimination, his tact & steady con-

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duct, his strict honesty, his straightforward & honourable dealing. Charles tutored himself into the best scholar of the family, & possessed a solid knowledge of business matters wh. none of the Bell family could equal. Assisted by sisters Emma & Jessy, & the kindness of a host of real friends, he Charles commenced business as a hosier and haberdasher in 1850, in South Street, Middlesbro’-on-Tees. He continued in his first shop for about five years, when he was enabled to take much larger premises in the same street, where he carried on an extensive business as a draper, hosier, &c. &c. Charles was an active & untiring supporter of the principles of total abstinence, & delivered lectures & gave readings at various places in the surrounding district. It is not too much to say, that he possessed the esteem & confidence of all – the rich & powerful as well as tradesmen & the poorest of the poor – classes of society. Charles continued at his second shop till the year 1868 (April), when a reverse overtook him, owing to the numerous “strikes” in the iron trade, & general stagnation of trade. With a family of six children, & the dark, dismal future before him, his heart almost failed in this dire extremity. For several months he was located at Marske with

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his family in a small shop as a draper, living upon Hope that he might be able once more to return to Middlesbro’, re-embark in his old line of business, & steer the old craft as afore time with success. This wish was realised before the end of the year (1868), & he is at present again under the shadow of his old roof & doing a good stroke of trade, with every prospect of a permanency. It may be here stated, that this great-boon was conferred principally thro’ the influence of numerous friends, who came to his rescue & assistance when his utmost need required; thus showing in a most convincing, answering, & disinterested manner, the great respect & invaluable esteem in wh. he was held. One main point wh. crippled Charles was the purchase of his house & shop, & trade becoming dull shortly after, crippled him in his ready-money resources, & ultimately dragged him down, from no fault of his own. The kindest sympathy was expressed by all for Charles’s misfortune; but the fact that real help was at hand when required, was far more satisfactory than empty pretensions. It is pleasant to know, that Charles settled amicably with all his creditors, was complimented on his honourable conduct, & fully reinstated

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in credit & business connexions. Of course, this mishap “opened” Charles’s eyes to many points wh. had previously existed only in imagination, and caused a corresponding caution & improvement, as well as even additional foresight, (a point of wh. he was not by any means short previously). It may certainly be said, with credit to himself, that Charles Bell made less mistakes in his life & business, as well as family ties, than any other of the Bells, sons or daughters of John & Margaret Bell. There is at this date – Dec. 12, ’68 – the greatest hope & prospect of Charles’s permanent establishment at Middlesbro’, as a draper, & he is destined, apparently, to be the only one of a large family (ten) who bids fair to hand down to posterity the name of Bell; & that, too, in the locality in wh. so many of them were born – viz. at Norton & Stockton. So it is that we constantly find children, or youths, or men of full growth divided, or driven by circumstances to seek their livelihood at long distances from the home of their birth, as a sort of wanderers through the world at large, taking root abroad, or in dear old England, as prospects of comfort & happiness, or riches, may present themselves. Charles married Miss

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Sarah Martin, from Stokesley, near Middlesbro’, in the year 1853 (14th July), and his family consists of the following: --

Margaret Bell, born May 22nd 1854; died June 16th 1854.

Emily Bell, born May 8, 1855. Married Jas. Stead, unitarian minister,

Henry Bell, born Aug. 1st 1856. Died [blank]

Louisa Bell, born June 6th 1858.

Clara Bell, born Apr. 17th 1860. Died [blank]

Annie Bell, born March 29th 1864. Died [blank]

Eleanor Bell, born Sep. 2nd 1865.

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Page for Charles’s additional family! (or remarks)

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Characteristic Incidents.

As well as others of the family, Charles was also tinctured with the sarcastic propensities of the family, as well as the ambition. When a boy of about twelve years of age, he went occasionally to Brunswick Street Chapel, at Stockton, to the lovefeasts. He was along with sister Emma one Sunday afternoon, when the old codgers were droning out their admonitions & experiences. Charley bore up with resignation & patience for some time. At length, he whispered to Emma that he was desirous of “holding forth” in a maiden speech – he said “he was sure” he could “do as well as some of ‘em” – he made an attempt to get on to his feet – Emma pulled him back to his seat, & “shook her head” with anger, being in great trepidation of fear that her 12-year old companion would venture to “speak his mind,” (whatever that might be). Several times Charley persisted in “speaking,” & was as many times persuaded, or compelled by force, to desist. At length the meeting separated, much to

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the relief of Emma. On reaching home, the incident was retailed to father & mother, the latter enjoying the “pluck” of the boy with great gusto, & “laughed till tears came into her eyes!” Perhaps it would be said by some people, that this little boyish freak was the first impulse of self-reliance, in the idea of being able to give utterance to his thoughts in public. The poet says, “The child is father to the man;” & it is just possible that the notion of ultimately being able to become a good speaker even then germinated, & was in the long run accomplished. Thus it is that men often attain what they resolve upon, and even achieve greater fame than was ever contemplated. The reporter sayeth not whether the aspiring youth had his ideas prearranged – whether he meant to begin with divisions in his address, as “first, second, third, & lastly” – but it was strongly surmised at the time, that the whole scene was one of an impulsive nature.

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Perhaps it will not be out of place to name another incident of rather a different character. When living at Norton, & a very small, pert boy, he had been frequently “insulted” by several big, burly, clout-headed youths much taller & older than himself. Charley was surrounded with a few friends – the bullies had made a fierce attack upon the smaller fry – ran them up & down, so that there reigned a species of terrorism for awhile. At length, this conduct of domineering was to cease. Charley “screwed his courage to the sticking point,” & resolved to do battle on behalf of himself & associates. The biggest bully of the lot, an itinerant Tinker, alias “Gipsey Jim,” stepped forth – Charley “faced” him, put himself into pugilistic form – “looked fierce” – & shot out a blow direct from the shoulder of his right & left, plumb on to the proboscis of his opponent, “drawing first blood;” round number 2, a dab in the eye from Charley’s right mauley, a fall to the ground, & Charley at the top, fall-

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ing heavily, & knocking the wind out of his competitor (loud cheers of encouragement to the little ‘un). The big ‘un slow in coming up on the 3rd round, & desirous of shirking another edition; but Charley felt his prowess increase, & Peter Fletcher & his companions urged him on – one more go, & the bully succumbed! – Charley became “the admiration” & hero of the village green for the time being, – the braggadocios were reduced to submission – peace was established for sometime afterwards – & Charley proclaimed cock o’ the Midden.

Both Tom & John Bell were partial to adventure & tricks; & in addition, were not at all particular in drawing people in & letting out the secrets, to raise the laugh against those deluded. This dodge was also carried out by others of the family, much to the chagrin of those exposed. The freak of inducing John to enter a cupboard during a prayer meeting, & attaching a string to the top of the door, in order to “drop on” to Jack when

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all was in full swing, was one of many singular adventures.

When father was overseer at Norton, he kept a pony. There were some races advertised to take place on the sands between Hartlepool and Seaton, at wh. there were saddles, bridles, legs of mutton, &c., presented to the winners. John slyly determined “to have a go in” with the pony for the new bridle. Without divulging his intention, away he went to Seaton, paid the entrance fee, won the new bridle, & returned home triumphant. But, alas! The worst part of the business was, that although he felt himself “very large” in coming in as the winner of the trophy, he was obliged to keep his victory secret, till it was one day accidentally discovered by father, & Jack ran the risk of receiving the application of a little stirrup-leather oil for his pains!

On one occasion, Tom & John ventured on a lark wh. proved serious. Leading from Norton to Billingham, there is a very steep bank. A cart was near, which

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belonged to a person named Walker. The lot decided upon having a ride in this cart from the top of the hill to the bottom. Walker’s son claimed the first privilege of riding , as the cart was his father’s. All right, & agreed to by Tom & Jack. The cart was placed on the brink of the hill, the lad got inside, & Tom & Jack started the vehicle off at full speed; but, in going down the bank, the cart ran on one side, came in contact with a large stone placed to keep horses, &c., off the footpath, threw the lad out, by the sudden jerk, & he was killed on the spot. The two youths retired home (Tom & Jack), were very mute & much distressed, & ultimately had to appear before a coroner’s inquest, to explain in detail the facts. The result was, a verdict of “accidental death,” without censure upon the two survivors. They were both shocked at this occurrence, & mother was greatly distressed that her two boys should be so venturesome, & run such risks.

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Having been always amongst Methodists, it stood to reason that some of the schemes of play would originate & be carried out in this religious body. Here is another example, somewhat similar to Tom & John’s trick with the cupboard door.

When Wm. Bell (the writer) was at Hollym, he used to be always taken to chapel by uncle James. On one occasion, the youth above-named had a cousin with him, named Robt. Pattinson, & both sat in the same high pew. After the evening sermon, there was a prayer-meeting. After singing a hymn, now & then, it was customary to offer up two or three prayers in between, by different parties. According to the idea of the two youths in the pew – both about 12 years of age – things appeared to be “stale, flat, & unprofitable,” & they resolved to “join in” with those who were on their knees. It so chanced, that there was a leaf from an old spelling-book upon the seat, wh. contained the morning and evening prayers. The boys “tossed up” with a button wh. should “hold forth,” when there appeared an opening, or a calm. W. Bell lost; but it was of course agreed by both that there was to be dead

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silence, no laughing or interruption, whilst the performer went through his task. With palpitating hearts, both listened & watched for an opening. The youth who was to read got stuck close into a corner of the pew, where there was a penny-dip suspended above his head. Pattinson nudged Bell to proceed – he faltered – another brother in the circle was “called” upon; after he had done, Pattinson urged his companion again to make a start, when, with tremulous voice at first – off Bell started, with the Evening Prayer! All was still as death at the sound of the boy’s voice – but, he went ahead. By and by, several of the old codgers in the circle breathed forth – “Amen!” “Glory!” with other ejaculations; & at the conclusion, when those present rose from their feet to sing another hymn, all eyes were turned to the square pew where the two boys were ensconced. Both looked as solemn as judges; & when the service concluded, the saints were desirous of congratulating “the new convert” from the error of his ways! But he declined, & wended his way homewards. It so chanced,

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however, that, in the hurry to get out, the loose leaf was left in the pew. Up to this time, the worthy followers of Wesley imagined that the spontaneous prayer offered up was “original!” So, when uncle James went to chapel on the following Sunday, the sweeper presented him with the identical prayer! On uncle’s return home, the recreant & ambitious 12-year older – Wm. Bell – was called into the stable, a horse-whip was taken from its peg, the youth audaciously seized by the collar – the leaf was held up, with the question, “Is that what thoo read?” – a kick on the stern-post for saying “yes!” and a promise of a thorough good whipping, “if ever thoo dares again to do such a thing!” Of course, the feat was never again essayed, & therefore, no thrashing was applied on that account.

George Bell’s characteristics were all of the serious & practical sort. George went to Australia about 1854. He worked his passage on board a ship called the Croesus. He got employed as a blacksmith at Sydney, where he saved “aboot” £50. He again worked his passage back to old England, & returned with about £100 in hand.

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Jessy tells a story (and Wm. Bell says he can confirm it) that, when at Bradford with “all this money,” George used to “count” his golden sovereigns several times during the day, “to make sure they were all there!” & that George laughed with delight on each occasion! (I wish poor George had his 100 sovereigns to count now, & glory in the sight of so much hard-earned wealth.) The next time (1859) George visited Australia, he was accompanied by brother Edward. Both paid their passages out, with the idea of visiting the gold diggings, & practising photographing. Very little good arose from this second voyage to George. He spent all the money he possessed, & had to turn his attention to work at anything. Once he was engaged as an assistant to a pie-maker, made of kidneys & fruit, wh. the proprietor vended amongst the gold-seekers’ tents at sixpence each. George ascertained all the secrets of pie-making, & seriously thought of beginning in opposition to his employer, but – he diddent! He left the diggings, & went into the country – or bush – to seek a livelihood. Here he met with a man from Darlington, who gave him “a job” at blacksmithing. George con-

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tinued with this man for some time, at board in the house, with “a promise” of “so much” for wages. But George could see no probability of securing his cash – began to be uneasy – & ultimately “Took,” (or borrowed) an old gun, as past payment, & sold it. But this was insufficient. George tired of working for nought, & resolved to make his exit from the place, if he could secure his deserts [sic]. At last, George saw no chance of being paid & in the long run had to accept three goats! – mother and two kids! The bother of this mode of payment was, that the two live animals “had to be kept” up with food, & George was wandering through the brush-wood with the goats following his track! They were disposed of for about £1 a-piece to the first customer, & George made head-way for Melbourne. By the time he reached that goal, he was very hard-up, & had to take a turn at breaking stones for highways, at 7/6 per day. This job gave him a slight lift up, but living was expensive. The House of Refuge for persons in great need was his last resource for a while. Then George had the good luck to meet with a person at Melbourne who had been mate on board the Croesus, the first ship in which

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he sailed to Australia. This man proved a kind friend to George; for there he stood in Melbourne – 15,000 miles from home – without a shilling! This noble-hearted sailor promised George his assistance to procure him a job on board, as a means of getting back to England; & the first thing he did was to give George a shilling – “to go and get shaved!” washed, and titivated up a bit! George was afterwards engaged as an assistant cook, & thus he landed once more at Liverpool, in the year 1855. From this period to 1868, George practised photography occasionally, at wh. he was very clever; but from 1866 to 1868 was employed in an iron factory at N’Castle. George was rather “peculiar” in his way about clothes – he “did not believe” in having too great a variety of suits, either of many colours or one. He considered that one set of garments was amply sufficient. He did not relish the notion of being “too smart,” but preferred the plain-going, free-and-easy style of cutting, with ample proportions in width & length. Anything new that was tight-fitting, or “nipped,” he abominated, & would set to work on his own account to “let out” (or extend)

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his unmentionables or other togs. The same remark applies to his boots, with this difference – that when rather “tight,” he made room by giving them “a slit” here and there, by way of ventilation! George had to endure many hardships during his life, owing partly to not having been brought up to any definite trade. He was a capital walker, & thought nothing of starting on a walking expedition of a couple of hundred miles, or more. Somehow, George was a general favourite amongst his mates & companions, as a quiet, easy-going, good-natured fellow, & the expression usually was – “I like poor George.” George was particularly partial to birds, dogs, cats, hens, &c., like the majority of kind-hearted folks; but the three goats – for wages – were beyond his conception of human endurance! George has had cocks & hens, cats & dogs, birds & beasts, who would run to meet him at his dinner hours, & follow him when he returned, each evincing the greatest delight at his presence, & apparently sorrowing when he was absent. Whilst lodging in N’Castle, in ’66 & ’67, Geo. had a favourite cat, wh. used to sit at the door & wait for his return from work at nights. If he was late in coming, the cat grew impatient, sat moodily on the threshold, but did not cease to keep sentry. The moment the cat caught a glimpse of its favourite master’s approach, it used to cock its tail, scamper up & down the passage into the sitting-room, & other wise evince its great pleasure at its master’s arrival.

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The adventures & anecdotes relative to Tom & John in the West Indies, as well as in America, are innumerable, but space will not permit of their insertion. Suffice to say, that both passed through the ordeal without dishonour or disgrace.

Edward Bell’s career I know little about, as he was invariably absent from home after his apprenticeship as a fitter & modeller. He was, however, fond of wandering from town to town, & rather of an unsettled disposition. His worldly experience was extensive, & he “was fit to turn out” anywhere, so far as being “wide awake” was concerned. He well knew how “to tak’ care of hissen,” go where’er he might, or into whatever company. He could relate some droll stories in the scenes of his career, but too long for insertion. As a pattern-maker, Ned was ingenious & clever. He once made a square fiddle, wh. turned out a “real good ‘un;” as well also a number of diminutive model planes, from a couple of inches long to larger sizes – “Real beauties.” Ned was also a musician, & used to practise upon a trombone in a small bedroom at Stockton, by opening a window, & shurving the slide at arm’s-length into the street! This bobbing out of the brass slide had a most comical appearance, every now & then, when Ned required to get very low notes, & crowds assembled to witness Ned’s variations & practise on the trombone. Ned is a funny fellow!

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As for the peculiar characteristics of the feminine gender – Mary, Emma, & Jessy – it is only necessary to add, that all possessed the stamp of fun & ridicule so prominent in the family. Each possessed a happy humour in recital of anecdotes, incidents, or life-training, which rendered them at all times welcome amongst their numerous associates. If anything, the lasses followed too much in the vein of their mother, by being too confiding in others, & believing that all was true gospel which Everybody said. Of course, the error was not discovered till deception or deceit supplied the place, & then it was often said by them, “that they could hardly believe the world was made up of such glaring contradictions” – & pocketed the affront, with promises “to be more cautious in future” – only to be cheated again by the first designing knave. Like all who possess kind & open-hearted dispositions, – who having nothing to conceal & are affable to the world at large, they were ever at the beck of those supposed to be in need, and, as a sure consequence, had often to lament the base ingratitude of those whom they served so well. Various striking examples could be easily supplied, such as borrowing sheets to “lay out” somebody who was dead – ditto blankets & counterpanes, to “make things

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look decent” during the time of mourning – ditto black dresses or shawls, & sometimes “a nice quilted petticoat” to attend funerals with – ditto “my best” black bonnet – ditto a pair of bran [sic] new boots, wh. had perhaps had been had on only once or twice – ditto woollen shawls, to keep the mourners warm in winter, or a crape one to keep them cool in summe [sic] – ditto, even on one occasion, chairs, tables, fire-irons, sofa, & even a bedstead (crib) was solicited for outdoor service! It was not at all surprising that there was often “a difficulty” in procuring the return to their proper owner of the above articles; whilst it was not at all to be wondered at, if some amongst the many articles lent out were discovered in a pawnshop, or dispensed to some neighbour, without permission! At Bradford, altho’ Mary was but of a delicate constitution, she was looked upon as a sort of matronly Sister-of-Mercy, who ought to be able to give advice to everybody all or lend out her bodily self “to sit up” at nights with all who chose to ask during the illness of any of her customers! As if it was the rule of trade to be open to the solictations [sic] of all who might buy a penny bobbin of thread, or a ha’porth of tape! If the custom of such visitations & borrowings was general, it might be a blessing – or otherwise – but, so far as is known, it is the Bells only who are subjected to similar indignities. Jessy & Emma

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were each imposed upon by similar loans, & at last firmly refused to lend any more. Jessy often frequently laughingly remarked, that when she lent out dresses, &c., they “never were fit to be seen afterwards,” and that the things “always had a queer smell!”

As a matter of fact it may be stated, that although Margaret Bell was a farmer’s daughter, she was not much trained to domestic work – cooking, washing, &c. Her resources being extremely limited for so large a family, it was often a thankless task to be able fully to provide for their daily necessaries. It is consolatory to know, that seldom, if ever, did the family fall short of sufficiency of food. Appetites being sharpened with early rising & hard work, the lads were not particular as to “dainties,” so long as plenty was on the board. The adage – “one-half the world is ignorant how the other half exists,” was applicable in our case; & even poor mother could not explain how she got the means, & could only observe “that she was often in a dilemma as to where the next meal was to be obtained.”

Luckily, both Bells & Gells possess good constitutions, & were healthy & vigorous, active and cheerful. These blessings enabled them to glide over ills wh. wd. have disheartened many, whilst they were ever cheered onward with hopes of better days, by the ever-kind & Christian spirit of their parents. If there were drawbacks to the generous, confiding advice instilled into the family by mother, there were likewise advantages, wh. thro’ life have operated as watch words, & preserved us from a snare.

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There is one feature runs through the lives of both Bells & Gells wh. I will notice, even at the risk of being tedious. As Sterne writes, I have endeavoured to avoid giving up the imagination “to be pleased one knows not why, & cares not wherefore;” & have consequently interspersed facts with voluntary opinions. And now I approach to conclusion, I have sometimes fancied it wd. have been better had I been less prolix. But it is too late to repent. I can’t afford to re-write, & all must go as it is – offend or approve.

The point to which I refer is – that both Bells & Gells appear longer in “growing old” than other people. Some may imagine this to be a singular notion; but there is an immense weight connected with it. An example or two will show “the bearings,” as seafaring men say. I will first take myself. I can say with truth, that I was nearly forty years of age before I began seriously to meditate about settling in life – that is, to think about becoming a staid, methodical, family-going, domestic person; & even at 55, I still feel, occasionally, in good health, the buoyancy & lightheartedness of youth. The same remarks apply to near the whole of the family, in a greater or less degree, varied principally by their position, or exuberance of animal spirits. I can speak from experience that it was the same with the Gells. It was so with

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father, & few people could belief [sic] that he was of the “green old age” he was for years before he died – “looking like the oak – worn, but still steady amidst the elements – “ & be possessed of so much hilarity, jocose fun, light step, & bluff uprightness erectness of bearing. Yet the above description, brief tho’ it is, is strictly true of father within a couple of years of eighty. Of course, I am aware that old age is a relative question – a matter of degree; but I specify this opinion as particularly observable in the family, & as somewhat singular. If any one who reads this paragraph will reflect, & cursorily think over some of the recent incidents connected with the Bells, & the general tenor of their habits, I believe they will coincide with me, that both in constitution, decision of character, & cool, calm, meditative, sedate, calculating fixity of purpose, so common in every-day life with those who have attained old age, middle life, or maturity. Perhaps it will be asserted that all this is owing to a natural sprightliness of disposition, a natural buoyant joyousness wh. cannot be suppressed. Admitted in part; but how seldom do we find the same qualities elsewhere? Uncle William (Brancepeth) is another instance. It is not necessary to individualise, otherwise I could fill pages, relating specially to each of us. I will therefore leave the selection to those who feel interested. A great deal could be made out of the point mooted.

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Whilst upon this subject, I will add, that my fixed impression thro’ life has been, that the main cause of all contained in the two preceding pages, has been owing to the want of proper direction when young. If circumstances had been such, that the Bells & Gells had had to face men of stolid, unflinching business habits, where barter is the rule, & where the best bargains are often made thro’ sheer dexterity, their habits of would have been earlier cooled down, & impulse would have yielded to serious, reflective judgment. However, it was their misfortune to be induced to take everything for granted as genuine, & all as fair & above board, till some mishap or misplaced reliance intervened, & then only were their “eyes opened.” Like gamblers, who are generally blind till they have lost their all, & then, instantly, like a flash of lightning, their sense of folly is self-evident. It is no difficult task to find many families who are staid, fixed, or defined in character, at ages ranging from 16 to 21 – steady & decisive as old Time; but we appear to extend the probationary term from 20 to 60! – if not longer. (I hope I shall be distinctly understood, that I am not alluding to mere personal appearance?)

By way of concluding the above notions, I will refer to one or two observations of father, who was rich in anecdote & telling in their recital. Of course, he, as well as mother, & the rest of us, was a believer in the

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all-is-fair-and-above-board doctrine. But towards the latter end of his days, he had often cause to express his amazement at the tricks & schemes prevalent in the world at large. All have heard him say, “Yau hes to be cautious noo-a-days. There’s nee tellin’ what some folks ‘ill dee, & nowt seems te cum amiss te them. We’ve getten to sike a pitch of rascality, that some waddent care to tak yer teeth, & come next day for’t gums!” This quotation embraces more in the way of giving full vent to practical experience than all that I can possibly conceive or advance. Does not its whole tenor imply – Caution, Foresight, cool Judgment? Yes, I imperative every-day watchfulness. Had we been favoured, as a family, with a little more of the above, we should all have occupied higher stations, & been blessed with better resources, than is now our fate. Let bygones cease. “It is never too late to mend.” Having been sufferers, let us endeavour to look-a-head; even yet there is hope that a better future awaits us with new resolves. Let action be the word, in place of trying to accommodate & please everybody. Learn to say “No,” decisively; let Self predominate rather than sympathy; learn how to “keep” as well as “earn” money, and all will yet be well.

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Inasmuch as there is not, & never can be, any monopoly of the best feelings of human nature, by the wealthy or powerful, so there is no check upon people using their eyes & forming opinions upon passing events. For “taking stock” of those by whom they may chance to be intermingled, I will back the Bells against all comers. It is impossible for one of them – from the oldest to the youngest – to sit in the presence of any party, without forming an immediate – but “silent” for the time being – impression of each individual with whom they may hold communion. Instance, a railway carriage, no. 1, “Didn’t like to sit beside, because he had a sinister look.” 2. “A queer-looking fellow, with a guttural voice;” & ditto 3, “with a shrill voice – like a woman;” 4, “Couldn’t fancy him (or her) because he had red hair, & rabbit-coloured eyes” – that is, “pink eyes”. 5, “because there was a queer smell arose from his togs, & he chewed tobacco." For these, & a hundred other similar notions, the Bells would swap seats, (on a long journey), in order to find a kindred spirit – often very difficult to accomplish. The same applies in private, or take a public meeting, or concert. The opinion is formed, instantly, whether a man is this or that. “I was sure he was all talk, & as empty

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as a drum; & the moment he opened his mouth – he put his foot in it!” (that is, made “a mess” of himself.) For many years I have heard those opinions, & it is patent that all have to pass the crucial test. “I never liked him, because” – “I never had any confidence in him, because – he couldn’t laugh!” “I never could have been comfortable with him, because – he was vul-gah, & supped – the – gravy – off – the edge – of his – plate!” & so on. Combe & Lavater – phrenologist & physiognomist – stood no chance whatever in noticing the peccadilloes of others, compared with the Bells! Of course, I leave the question “an open one for discussion,” whether the trait is good or bad. Let “doctors” & judges decide. There is no harm in noticing the fact; & let those deny the statements who can. And thus we have survived to have the “critics criticised” – by one of themselves! And he, in turn, will have to bear the brunt of all readers in the family who waddle thro’ his long-drawn effusion! The writer has been long accustomed to responsibility, is pretty tough, & not at all afraid of his back. There is a philosophical observation in “Eugene Aram” by Bulwer, which

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I will quote, as applicable. It is to this effect – What a world of dark & troubled secrets lurk in the hearts of every one who hurries by you! Goëthe wrote, that each of us – the best as the worst – hides within him some thing – some feeling, some resemblance, some adverse ideas – that, if known, or could be read on the forehead, would make you hate him. It is a good job for the Bells that the best of linguists can’t interpret their reflections! To the parties concerned, they are mute – of course. Shakspere says – “I do know of those that therefore only are reputed wise for saying nothing.” If we are rather indiscreet in “making ourselves too familiar” as a rule, making ourselves at home with any fool that may turn up in the wayside of life, there is an effectual embargo upon ventilating your thoughts on personal appearances – except in private; therefore, it is best to be “reputed wise,” and say nothing. As father used to say, “They can’t stop yau fra thinking, onny hoo;” but my assertion is, that the Bells “think” & form conclusions more than others, & can’t help it, favourable or unfavourable.

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Alfred Bell, son of John & Margaret Bell, was born at Norton, in the year 1829, on the 13th of May. When young, he was a mischievous boy, but quick, & a great favourite with mother. So far as attending school went, Alfred had perhaps the best chance of any of the others, & was favoured, in this respect, above all those who had preceded him. When 14 years of age, he was bound apprentice to a designer in the stuff trade at Bradford; he continued at Brfd. till 1846, when he decamped, & foolishly enlisted for a soldier. After serving about twelve months, he was bought off; he was then located at Middlesbro’ as bookkeeper, &c. &c.; after that, he turned his attention to photographing; at Darlington he got married to a clergyman’s widow; he then removed to Leeds, & commenced business as a draper; this did not answer; photographing again; once more in business at Brfd. as a draper – again no go; photographing once more, & his first wife having died at Leeds, he married a second, who brought forth a numerous family, wh. sadly crippled poor Alfred. He then removed to Middlesbro’, & commenced business as an accountant, & debt & rent collector, until a severe affliction compelled

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him to resign, in January, 1868. This sad misfortune once more threw Alfred on his beam ends, & had well-nigh shipwrecked & blasted all his future worldly career. Fortunately, he recovered his full health, & at this date – Dec. 12/68 – bids fair to qualify himself for any situation that may transpire or suit him. He is at present at Bradford, with sister Mary, & his wife is working with a sewing-machine, to help to support a number of young children. Alfred’s family comprise two boys & three girls. Here was another instance of a “great mistake” made by one of the Bell family. As a designer at Bradford, Alfred had every prospect of becoming well-to-do; was respected by his employer, & possessed his full confidence; he was quick & clever as a designer; had improved himself greatly as a scholar, & was fully calculated to accept a situation as bookkeeper or clerk, if designing patterns for the Bfd. trade should fall off; but, unfortunately for his future prospects, he missed “the tide” when it served, & has been in the slough of difficulties from the year 1846 to the year 1868. Whether the current of good Fortune will ever again run in the

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same channel is a question. That is for the future to decide, & I will leave a blank space for those who live the longest to chronicle Alfred’s final life as it may close, wh. I sincerely hope may be better than is now apparent.

Louis Bell (Alfred’s children) born [blank]

John Wm. Bell, born [blank]

Francis Henry Bell, born [blank]

Margaret Bell, born [blank]

Mary Bell, born [blank]

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Jessy Bell, daughter of J. & M. Bell, was also born at Norton, on the 2nd of July, 1831. When Jessy grew up to be able to attend school, she had the privilege of attending the Infants’ School, in High Street, Stockton. Having an excellent voice, she became an excellent singer of the numerous little songs & hymns practised daily at that institution. Being of a lively & happy disposition, she was an especial favourite with father, mother, & the whole of the sons particularly. It was the glorious delight of both father & mother to hear Jessy sing – for many years after leaving the infants’ school – “The Pet Lamb,” “The Dew was falling fast,” “The Lark,” “How Fine has the day been;” as well also was it a pleasure up to the present (Dec. 12/68), to brother Charles, & all others of the family, to hear the sweet little songs, wh. reminded them so forcibly of former days. Even at this date, there is one other point at wh. Jessy looks back upon with fond remembrance, & that is, her connection with Trinity Church Sunday School, at that time under the superintendence of Miss Tathwell, when the Rev. Mr. Collinson officiated there as minister. Miss Tathwell was a lady of most amiable & religious disposition, & imparted instruc-

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tion to her pupils kindly, affectionately & won the young hearts of all who were favoured by being under her direction, leaving an impress which remained “a thing of beauty, & a joy for ever.” When Jessy attained womanhood, she was of valuable service to Charles in commencing business at Middlesbro’, as well as Emma, both of whom worked hard in attending to the regular household duties, as well as the shop, & in making articles for sale. In About the year 1854, Jessy left Middlesbro’ & went to Bradford, & became housekeeper to the eldest of the sons (Wm. Bell), with whom she remained up to the year 1868, & was likely to continue (Dec. 12). Jessy was married to Geo. Saint, engine-driver, of Coxhoe, on the 6th of April, 1850, at Shadforth, near Durham, by the Rev. Mr. Blenkinsopp. Jessy had one son, Henry Bell Saint, born on the 6th of Sep., 1857, at Linthorpe, near Middlesbro’; who also lived with Wm. Bell, & was of course along with his mother. This family left Middlesbro’ for Newcastle in Feb. 1859, & remained there from that time till the present – Dec. 12/68. Jessy’s great “mistake” was in making too early a marriage, at 19 years of age, before even she had

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begun to think of the consequences, or sufficiently settled in disposition to cope with the difficulties of a married life. Jessy was sent early to farm servitude, met with hard taskmasters & mistresses, & was thus driven to seize what she considered, no doubt, a chance of escape from the thraldom of being at the beck & insults of her employers. From childhood, Jessy was a good & willing worker, & no mere trifle could abash or dishearten her. Father was so partial to Jessy’s generous & joyous disposition, as well as her management of household duties, that he used to say, “I could live in a wood with Jessy, & be happy all the day long.” While others of the family entertain similar feelings towards Jessy. With having gone thro’ the arduous duties of service at farmhouses, Jessy was early engrafted into work, was an excellent cook, & handy at almost anything wh. turned up, as well as being quick, active, & lively-tempered. Jessy was axious [sic] to be “doing something” towards the support of her son, & to keep herself employed, whilst at Newcastle. She, therefore, bought a sewing-machine, with wh. she did a vast amount of work, & was remarkably clever. When Jessie married in 1850, Charles was about commencing business, & Jessy & Emma united with Charles in lending their

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valuable aid. Although married, Geo. Saint & Jessy had not lived together, inasmuch that on the same day they were united at Shadforth, Jessy returned to Middlesbro’. Owing principally to Jessie being cast among a new circle of friends & connexions, wh. were more in accordance with her feelings than country servitude, she spent a joyous life for four years. Charles, however, got married, & then the services of Emma & Jessy were not so much required. Brother Edward was on a visit to father, & Jessy returned with him to Liverpool. Wm. Bell being in want of a housekeeper, at Bradford, Jessy accepted the situation; she remained there till January, 1857, when she was induced by George Saint to reside with him as her husband. This event resulted after many misgivings & a long correspondence; but it was the sole desire of both parties. The union was an unhappy one, & time soon unfolded the fact that they were not adapted to each other. A separation took place, & Jessy returned to her brother as housekeeper. George Saint was an engine-driver, and died in November, 1859. He was a decent fellow, quiet when sober, but unfortunately too fond of his beer, &c. He was clever as a mechanic, had good wages, was a stout, well-made man, but the ruination of all was – drink, which was

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his ruin, as well as the cause of his early death. He was unfortunately connected with a “bad lot” of dissipated companions, & had not the nerve to separate himself from their temptations. Thus it was that Jessy “could not be happy” with her husband, who had nothing in his nature of the homeliness of a comfortable fireside & domestic bliss entertained by his partner. It was therefore better to separate, than that both should be rendered miserable, as well as being a source of constant irritation and uneasiness to all connected with them. If Jessy had been taught music, she would have made a capital singer. She possessed great power & flexibility of voice, as well as a remarkably sensitive ear. She was quick at catching tunes, with a precise correctness in tone wh. few can accomplish. Jessy would have made a tidy actress, if it had so chanced that opportunities for training had occurred in her youth. Of commanding figure & good action, accompanied with good emphasis & expression of features, she would undoubtedly have attained a good position, either as an actress or a singer. But, neither father or mother would entertain ideas “so wicked” as to make one of their family

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a public character! & would never “allow” Jessy to learn to dance, for fear of bad company. They were “afraid” of (imaginary) consequences; & were often even unwilling that their children should mix in the world, like other people. Jessy was also a capital mimic; & altho’ this is a characteristic not to be commended at all times, to “see another” pourtrayed to the life is generally amusing, & often rewarded with hearty laughter. Such was the case when Jessy ventured upon ironical imitations in voice & gesture of old mother Stainthorpe – a person with whom Jessy was in service, & a hale, hearty, stout, handsome old body, “as ivver walked,” as Jessy says. To give an idea of the expression & emphasis is impossible, by writing; but there was one in particular quite irresistible, wh. related to mother Stainthorpe having once left Sedgefield on a visit to Middlesbro’ – without her box of pills! The old lady fancied her digestive organs were impaired, & was in the habit of declaring aloud, in all companies, that “without she could get a box of Rookes’s pills – un-less – John – Bell – you – can get me a box of them pills – I – I – shall be obliged – John – Bell – to – go – home at – once!”

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or, otherwise, she “was sure she would have an – inflam – ma – tion!” So the only way was, if the Bell family were desirous that the old lady shd. prolong her visit, the pills were procured; if not – then she departed! It will be at once admitted, that this was a rather novel method of being able to get rid of a troublesome visitor!

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To speak individually, perhaps some may imagine that I have written “more concerning Jessy than the other sisters,” & favoured her accordingly. This is easily accounted for, from the fact that Jessy was under the shadow of my roof for 14 years, & therefore I was the most likely to note her peculiarities. It would, however, be a great mistake to assume that Mary or Emma possessed none of the good qualities, or did not equal Jessy in all good deeds & works, with perhaps even fewer mistakes than Jessy.

Nothing could exceed the unlimited kindness & affectionate zeal of both Mary & Emma towards father & mother, as well as towards all the rest of the family, whether in sickness or in health, in poverty or prosperity. Mary did all th. the most wealthy cd. have done with her purse for father, and his faintest desire was gratified – nothing th. money cd. buy to relieve was omitted or wanting; whilst Emma was, during 20 years of her life, untiringly watchful & attentive to every breath of father’s solicitations; & very, very often, be it honestly confessed, when her resources were extremely limited, & even dire necessity or want threatened. To write more fully of the benign characteristics of Emma or Mary wd. be fulsome; but both richly deserve every praise & credit – along with Jessy – for doing all that mortals could for father, mother, & family. The same

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observations apply with equal force to Charles, Tom, John, & Alfred; for, at the table of the former, father was an ever-welcome guest; & but for Charles, it is just possible, that the venerable old sire of us all, might sometimes have fallen short in his daily appetising requirements, as well as being deprived of the great privilege of mixing with the rising generation at Charles’s house – his grandchildren.

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Summary Opinion of the Bell Family.

Having ventured to speak of each of the Bell family individually, – as well as the Gells – there can be no further harm (& not anything like such dangerous ground) if I summarise the whole, as depicted in the preceding pages – simply without reference to any single party.

Hundreds of times has the writer meditated, & asked himself the questions – Here was a great and solemn fact, twelve children brought into the world by a poor tradesman, How were they brought up? How could they be trained, fed, clothed, & educated, to occupy respectable, honourable, & responsible positions in society? Every two years, another & another “dropped into existence,” from the year 1813 to 1833. And what was the weekly (or annual) stipend to support them? I have heard mother say, many times, that she could say with truth, that she never had one pound per week to support this large family, & often very much less! Mother used to say, if from one pound [torn page] could have been guaranteed weekly, [torn page] would have been rich,” & had amply

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sufficient for every requirement. There is a book published – “How to Live on £250 a-year.” Would not the title have been far more serviceable to the great bulk of the working class community, if it had been – “How to keep a family of ten children upon £1 per week?” – or less even than that?

Well, those who desire to know, will find at least some little reference in these pages as to how the family was fed & clothed, as well as to their limited education & actions thro’ life. For myself, I unhesitatingly have stated, that the Bell family have been a credit to their predecessors.

It has been observed by some that both the Bells & Gells are “proud.” No doubt of it; & I venture the opinion, that this “notion” of pride, respectability, &c., has been their mainstay of success. For a blessing, they have all been “too proud” to descend to meanness or rascality; whilst their independent spirit & pluck helped them onward over the quick-sands & pitfalls wh. surround poor humanity. Taken all in all, I wd. venture to say, that, sometimes this independent, off hand spirit [torn page] of disadvantage, but, as a rule, [torn page]

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Some say we are an irritable, excitable, fiery, in temper. Few of us can deny this characteristic. The faults are inherited from both father & mother; but, as a fellow with not the best of tempers remarked – “Lord bless us! – how could the world jog along without tempers?” And, pausing for a reply, & receiving none, gave one himself, by saying – “Why, there would be nowt else but – stagnation.” I am not going to palliate our infirmities, but, on my own account, at once plead guilty. I leave others to pass their own verdict, & to judge for themselves as to the advantages or otherwise.

Connected with warmth of temperament may be classed instability, wh. many imagine to be are inseparable. There is no doubt that, to some extent, this is true; for a plodding, care-nothing, easy-going, calculating, dull, immovable, cold-blooded cla[torn page] will often submit to any indignities, rather than budge from the sod upon wh. they were reared. In our case, I have given ample instances to show that at least the majority are not so unstable as may appear. For instance – one occupied only two situa-

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tions in 34 years; one was in the West Indies for 14 years, & another for 9; whilst others of the family have remained in one or other locality for 10 & 20 years in succession. Where the greatest instability has occurred has been owing to non-success in business or a desire to improve their mere hand-to-mouth position. Grim Necessity often drives the best & most settled dispositions to seek their livelihood anywhere, as well as to change the business to wh. they were innured [sic]. And so has it been with the Bells & Gells. He is, indeed, a poor dog who has no pluck to fend for himself when Fortune fails, & will lie down & wait for what turns up. I am proud to say, that this notion has no existence in our family, so far as I am able to judge.

Following in the same strain, one short paragraph will suffice to say, that when misfortunes have beclouded our path, we have yielded too much to gloomy imaginings, evil forebodings, almost bordering on despair. This feeling is natural to all possessing fine feelings & impulsive tempers, & more particularly is this the case, when parties have trained themselves

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into the belief, & inwardly feel, that their “intentions” were honourable, their characters irreproachable, & their actions stainless. Their gaseous nature soon exploded, whether with pain or pleasure – soon elated, soon up, & soon depressed. They stood in no need of “hot & rebellious” liquors to raise their languid or dormant fire. Their greatest difficulty arose in suppressing its ebullition, or “keeping cool” for emergencies.

And herewith annexed is what may be deemed the ruling passion of the Bells (Middlesbro’) & the Gells (at Hollym), in contrast with the Bells (of Brancepeth). I mean the question of Marriage (see pages 30 and 40). The point is of course a debatable one, & much can be advanced on both sides of the question; but the feature in the three families is worthy of notice. It is stated amongst the notice of the Gells, that only one “aimed high” in choosing a wife – that is, looked out for a wench wi’ some brass – & that was Thos. Gell (Knaresbro’). He first married a lady who was in a consumption – she soon died – she had a house or two & a druggist’s shop, in the market-place, Knaresbro’, besides a fair lot of private traps, furniture, cash, &c. Her name was Coupland. He next pitched his attentions upon another woman with money – Miss Eteson – with whom he “bolted,” much against the wishes of the family of Etesons. She also soon died, leaving two sons. One also of the Bells chose a wife possessed of a few hundreds, but it is a doubtful point whether a rough-spun, hard-working wench, wd. not have been of more real service, & helped her partner more easily o’er life’s chequered path. That is, one out of ten aspired; the remainder who selected wives or husbands, have been

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content to either “fall in love,” “take a fancy,” or entertain a “cant-do-without-you” sensation, & clinched the bargain at once! Some could not possibly explain, or will not attempt, the reason-why they got wed. One has been heard to say, when following in the wake of his lady, “Look what a smart step she has!” whilst another embraced, or entered, the bonds of matrimony – because – really – “I can’t tell what for.” but – “It was done – & that’s enough.” One or two have done very well – one or two very badly – & four of the lot have not “done” at all in wedlock. Altogether, in a family of ten, I reckon we have done very little towards keeping the world a-wagging, after coming from so healthy & prolific a stock. There is no doubt that the Bells, having been brought up as hard workers, held the notion that useful, plain-going, steady, practical girls were preferable to the superficial or ornamental. Had the one enjoyed good health – who was introduced into the family as superior to themselves in attainments, gracefulness, & lady-like acquirements – there is no doubt but she wd. have been of great assistance to her partner, of whom she was passionately fond. She was, indeed, a cultivated, well-taught, accomplished person, of pleasing manners, a good musician & singer, & throughout possessed of good abilities as a lady. She was qualified to impart instruction of a high class, & wd. willingly have done so, but bad health prevented. The great misfortune, however, is, that persons thus highly educated often require more attention & service than can be provided out of small means, if they are not even sometimes extravagant in their ideas. My conclusion is therefore this – that, invariably, it is the best to marry from the class in wh. you move, but – with a bit of money, if you can get it; if not, working abilities.

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John Bell’s family were proverbial for always being in a hurry, or full of business. Ask them to do a certain thing within a given time, & they will say – “Oh, yes, to be sure!” in a moment; but, something intervenes, weeks or months pass away, & then, all at once, it is discovered that less than five minutes wd. have accomplished what had been promised so long! – merely, perhaps, to write six lines, with another “promise” to “write again soon” – wh. said time never arrives. Once they start, they can go a-head – but it is difficult to make the first step. A little less phlegm & more decision of character wd. cause greater punctuality. They are wavering & fidgetty.

There is one commendable point wh. must not be omitted, & that is, that both Bells & Gells are tidy, orderly, precise, & cleanly – in some cases, even fastidious. But, there are exceptions to this, tho’ I speak of the majority as above.

The Bells are all “capital talkers;” & possess a glibness of tongue, a fund of anecdote, & a facility of expression, wh. may be envied by some, but is excelled by few. There is nothing spasmodic about them in speech or action, but all is free-and-easy, & all feel comfortable & “at-home” amongst the Bells. There is no plausibility or hum-drumming deception – no saying perverse things for aggravation’s sake – but generous, open-hearted converse, wh. gains confidence, though, with truth to be confessed, not always of material advantage on the side of the loquacious. They will suggest, object, argue, twist a point, but never give in.

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It is true there is one brother in Australia, who has been absent eight years in search of fame or fortune, but taking them all in all, they are not cut-out for exploring expeditions – or “roughing” it, as the saying goes. They prefer a comfortable, domestic fireside, or “home, sweet home,” to wandering without fixity of purpose. Four tried their abilities at photographing in various localities, with & without galleries, with uncertain success, & small earnings as the result. All “retired” from this calling – that is, after the “fine arts” – & selected more practical occupations.

And now I arrive at a point wherein there seem to be nothing but contradictions in character.

It is singular, but a fact nevertheless, that the Bells & Gells were the most liberal, generous, off-hand, cheerful givers; they wd. give of their substance to the last farthing; they would imagine such & such folks stood in need, & impoverish themselves to to [sic] render aid to others. They would scratch, & save, & work, & scheme, to save a trifle, whilst before long they would be equally prodigal, heedless as to the value of money, & indifferent about the necessities of the future. I am here referring to “treating” others, in preference to looking at Number One. I dare not enumerate examples; otherwise, I could do so without limit.

The next “contradiction” apparent is, that the Bells are rather self-willed, stubborn, headstrong. What is herein advanced about impetuosity of temperament, excitability, &c., must be compared,

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& see whether this tenacious characteristic is common with others of similar temperament. I think not, but will leave others to form their own opinion. Father used to say, that this stubbornness, &c. did not spring from his side, but from the Gells. Perhaps he was partially correct – I incline to the belief that both families were possessed of the faculty. I need only quote the old proverb to illustrate what is meant – “one man can lead a horse to the well, but a hundred can’t make him drink.” I only wish our lot had been a little more stubborn & headstrong in looking more to themselves, than to others. They would all have been in a vastly superior position in a worldly sense, whilst the lip-salve & compliments pass as of no avail. But – ‘tis bootless – “What’s bred in the bone comes out in the flesh.”

Without desiring repetition, I will merely observe, that few working men, brought up on scanty resources, & without influence, have earned more money than three or four of the Bell family. Yet, what is the fact? In spite of all these great wages, few, if any, are blessed with even a moderate competency. There was no mistake about their talent as workmen – no pretence of ability wh. did not exist – no silly conceit – no faltering or quivering – no asking of questions how to do this & that – no necessity to beg of a friend “to show him how” to

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accomplish the commonest work; but their knowledge of their branches of trade were practical & skilful, being well-versed in all the routines, so that they were throughout good workmen, quick, active, reliable, & attentive. As a person once remarked to me, who knew the Bells well – “There is great talent in the family; they are capable of accomplishing anything to wh. they have been brought up. They are possessed of extra abilities as a family of working men, & their means at command when young; but were short of discretion, coolness, & foresight.” This short quotation conveys immense meaning; how far it is correct is not for me to say – only, I think “it is rather near the mark.” A little more cool, calculating, Scotch-like caution & sagacity, would have made the Bell family permanent landmarks in their localities – well-to-do, prosperous, if not independent tradesmen.

There is just one other notion crosses my mind, wh. may perhaps pass as a substitute for an explanation, in the absence of a better, on the point above referred to. It is generally admitted that when people are brought up in seclusion, or when hard fare & limited resources cripple their exit into the world, they feel an unbounded pleasure when the time arrives & they are blessed with plenty. Small means in youth lead to extravagance and recklessness in manhood; men first launched

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into the world on their own responsibility fear not, & go-ahead, upon the principle of self-reliance, & their own pluck & ability. Altho’ manhood is attained, the inexperience of youth still governs, directs, & controls. Temptations are tasted for the first-time, & the titillating pleasure increases. Then again, “Great earners are great spenders;” so that, in the long run, the man with a moderate income & cool judgment is better off than he with great receipts. It is something after the fashion of a sailor who has been on a long voyage, & earned his wages amid storms & tempests, in peril of life, every hour of the day. He has been “cribbed, cabined, confined.” The moment he is free, paid off, and on solid land, he forgets all his hardships or dangers. Headlong he rushes, is liberal with cash, “treats” everybody, till he meets with some designing scoundrel more clever than the rest, who “cleans him out” of his cargo, & he remains afloat, & at liberty “for another ship!” I have often imagined that the Bells were excusable for any extravagance they were guilty of, because their experience of the world only really commenced at the close of their apprenticeship. They not attained their world-wide ideas by degrees or gradually, but at once “rushed in, where angels fear to tread” – (of course, “good” angels.) For those who feel inclined, there is ample scope in this paragraph “to think and talk about.” There is the text – use at pleasure.

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I have written that the Bells possessed great facility of expression as talkers. I may say the same of some of them as writers. Their great fault in writing was volubility & length. (Of course, I don’t deny that I am equally guilty, & perhaps this book may be tendered as a case in point. If so, let any one who “fancies” he can compress more into the space, try his hand at the job.) The fact is, nothing is more natural than that those who have received meagre educations should be apt to spin long yarns. To be able to give condensed expression to thoughts in writing requires a life-long practice, wh. few attain with a good direction & thorough training. The Rev. Sydney Smith gave good advice, when he said, after having written what you think, “Take a pen, & cross out every other word, & you will see what a wonderful improvement there is in the style.” No doubt. but common working men are not supposed to be blessed with the same facilities as men of education; & neither have they the time or inclination to be so precise or fastidious. It is certain the Bells were never known to stick fast for the want of ideas or subjects in their writing or conversation; and the accomplishment of being able to convey their thoughts in a bold, good, or amusing manner, is in the highest degree creditable & commendable. When we reflect with what a little real knowledge the world is go-

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verned, & how many pass muster with mere scraps of common every-day twaddle, & are even set down as “clever,” we have no fault to find with the short-comings of the Bells under this heading. They have proved themselves equal with those who have had better opportunities in early life; but what the Bells might have been – had they been more favoured by fortune or position – is of course a speculative question, & too delicate to descant upon.

Our family were kind, & decidedly Sympathetic; – they had sympathy sufficient, & to spare, for half-a-dozen families. But I need not say more than this – after what is previously advanced in pages 75 & 76 – that not only did they really feel & express their kindly feelings, but were always ready to render all the assistance in their power. The whole contents of this book bears testimony of high character to the Bells upon this particular point.

On the death of father, in Nov. 1867, I promised to bro. Charles to write an outline of the lives & characters of the Bell & Gell Families. I did so, because I was the only one remaining who was well acquainted with the Gells, who was willing to undertake the task, but I had no idea at the time, that the information furnished wd. be so extensive, or that my own additions wd. be above a few pages, otherwise, I wd. not have

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consented so willingly. Once for all, let it be distinctly understood, that wherever the imperfections, short-comings, want of foresight, prudence, coolness, providence of earnings, prodigious gift of tongue, superficiality of character, sarcasm, susceptibility & fire of temper, want of judgment, decision of character are herein dilated upon, the writer feels his own career even more strongly defined than any others of the family. If there has been a lack of the “accommodating,” crouching, & lick-spittle principle of lacqueyism amongst the Bells, the writer also pleads his total inability thro’ life to have “been able to submit,” to smother (perhaps) his self-constituted notions, for the mere prospect of emolument. Having been a sufferer in this respect, he feels it rather an honour than otherwise to know that there are others in league with him of the same breed who entertain opinions somewhat similar. It must be confessed, however, that even this point may become too elastic, & highly detrimental to permanent success in life – a little independence is all very well, but too much becomes a nuisance.

He would, indeed, be a bold man to assume that any one could write at this length, honestly, & please everybody concerned. That has not been attempted. So far as could be ventured upon, each illustration has been drawn correctly, if

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even at the risk of condemnation. Naturally, perhaps, every one may feel greater curiosity as to what is said respecting himself (or herself) than about others; but I have not taken this point into account, having freely ventilated the principal features of all, whether absent or present.

For the style & penmanship, I will merely say that the job has been in hand for 14 months off and on – that I have written snatches now & then, as information arrived – & that I have endeavoured to avoid bombast, egotism, fine sentences, or rigmarole. My sole aim has been a straightforward, plain, unvarnished recital of the truth in all things.

And lastly. I am perfectly aware that all herein contained will probably interest only the present generation of Bells; that, as each, one after another, leaves this earthly abode, the contents may become more interesting to the last survivor, when he or she silently but sorrowfully thinks & contemplates –

“To what straits Old Time reduces Frail man, when paper, e’en a Rag like this, survives himself, his tomb, and all that’s his.” – Byron.

Jan. 13 th 1869. – Wm. Bell, Newcastle-on-Tyne.

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P.S. I am sorry to say I have not had time to read the preceding pages, so that I might correct any mistakes. If there is a redundancy of words, or repetitions, here & there, I shall feel thankful if these excrescences are expunged.

Now that the main facts are altogether, it would be easy to condense. Those who feel inclined can do so; but herein be it affirmed – for once and for ever – that I will never make another “promise” of a similar magnitude – or even one of any kind, unless I can guarantee the whole lot to be covered by the circle of a bramble.

I feel as if I had “overdone” the whole affair, but it must now be taken as it is.

I have given vent to honest convictions, independent of “family pride,” or egotistical nonsense, & you must take – the will for the deed; & that is – a never-ceasing, craving prayer, for the good of all the family.

Wm. Bell

Jan. 16, 1869.

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Supplement to brother William’sSketches of the Bell and Gell Families.By Chas. Bell.Feb. 1869.

[Charles Bell often uses a vertical line to represent the word “the.” In these cases I have supplied the full word in square brackets.]

Dr. Wm.

At the time of our dear old father’s death, we entered into an agreement that, between us, we should furnish a few outlines of the leading incidents & characteristics of the two families, with wh. we are directly connected by the ties of blood. As you were the oldest brother, & had seen & heard the most about the Gells & older Bells, the early work, we agreed that you shd. sketch the first part, & that, as I had been most intimately connected with father & family at home for 20 years’ past, I shd. confine myself to that period, & also narrate the closing scene [of] father’s long & eventful life; also mother’s. You having done yr. part, with an

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industry & minuteness wh. far surpass my largest expectations, & wh. must prove of intent interest to all who are related to the Bell & Gell families.

It now remains for me to fulfil my part of the agreement. Yours extends over a period of nearly two centuries & a half; mine, over the space of about a quarter of a century, & may not prove so interesting. I will, however, do my best to chronicle some of the leading incidents – especially the last moments of our dear old parents. These must, at least, prove valuable. The last words, looks, actions, feelings, of those who gave us birth, & with whose memories are associated so many lively & hallowed recollections, will be treasured more than gold.

“The tongues of dying menEnforce attention like deep harmony;When words are scarce, they are seldom spent in vain;For they breathe truth, that breathe their words in pain.He that no more must say, is listen’d moreThan they who, in youth & ease, have taught to glose.More are men’s ends mark’d, than their lives before:The setting sun & music at the close,As the last taste of sweets, is sweetest last;Writ in remembrance more than things long past.”

– Shakspere.

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You have already noted the fact that father & mother left Norton with their family in the year 1837. Thompson Street, Stockton – a not very poetic locality – was the scene of their first domicile. This was the street where Edward’s celebrated trombone performance took place, wh. you have sketched. Our people resided in Thompson Street during most of the time that Tom & John were serving their apprenticeship with Neasom & Welsh, & during the four yrs. & a-half that I was with Mr. Whitfield, High St., Stockton, drapers &c. In this house, though not situated in the most attractive locality, many of us spent happy days, & witnessed youthful scenes never to be forgot.

I well remember how mother was in the habit of gathering us together, on Sunday nights, “As a hen gathereth her chickens under her wing,” & how happy we felt whilst singing some of those charming old Wesleyan hymns, such-as –

“There is a land of pure delight,Where saints immortal reignInfinite day excludes the night,And pleasures banish pain,” &c.

“Behold the Saviour of mankind,Nailed to the shameful tree!How vast the love that Him inclinedTo bleed & die for thee!” &c.

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“Jesus, the name high over all,” &c

“Oh, for a thousand tongues to singMy great Redeemer’s praise –The glories of my God & King,The triumphs of His grace,” &c.

“A charge to keep I have,A God to glorify,A never-dying soul to save,And fit it for the Sky:To serve the present age,My calling to fulfil:Oh, may it all my powers engage,To do my Master’s will,” &c.

Though some of us – myself included – did not possess the organ of tune very largely developed, yet we “all joined in” with those who did, whilst mother sat listening, as if she had already “the realms of the blest.” Was it not, indeed, “a little heaven below?”

“The land of promise, the shrine of love,A type on earth of our home above;What matter to us how the world may glide,If it leave us the light [of] our own fire sides?”

There was a hymn, of wh. I remember that the juvenile portion of the family were especially fond: –

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“What are those arrayed in white –Brighter than the noon-day sun?Foremost of the sons of light –Nearest the eternal throne?These are they that bore the cross –Nobly, for their Master stood;Sufferers in the righteous cause,Followers of their dying Lord.”

Then there was a rattling chorus, wh. all pushed out with the vigour of lung so characteristic of the Bell’s, & with a gusto wh. seemed “to shake” the loose articles within the domicile –

“Victory! Victory!! When we gain the Victory!!” &c.

If I were asked to point out the hymn wh. was the greatest favourite with mother, I shd. decidedly say – “Rock of Ages, cleft for me,” &c., the last verse of wh. always struck me as highly solemn & impressive; & I can still fancy I see my sainted mother, as she used to sit in her “old arm chair,” with closed eyes, & singing –

“While I draw this fleeting breath,When my eyes shall close in death;When I rise to worlds unknown,And behold Thee on Thy throne:Rock of Ages, cleft for me,Let me hide myself in Thee(Two last lines repeated)

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Singers in the Family.

Father had a sweet, melodic, ringing voice, & was a decidedly good singer; he frequently took the lead in these social exercises. Alfred, Jessy, Mary, & William were all good in this charming gift of musical faculty & voice. Alfred was once singer in a choir at Trinity Church, Stockton; Jessy you have already done justice to as a sweet warbler, & you have not advanced the word too much. Years afterwards, when Jessy returned from Scotland place, & came to reside at Middlesbro’, she formed one of a choir who used to meet at temperance gatherings, to sing temperance melodies. As a proof of the appreciation of the services of Jessy & the said choir, crowds assembled once a week to listen to their vocal entertainments. The singing was the chief attraction, for never since has there (1850-54) been such good singers, in Middlesbro’, & never such enthusiastic & hearty greetings. Jessy was one of the most prominent & effective of the whole. Her songs were – “Hope of the World;” “My own dear Home;” “The Bridal Feast;” “The Patriot Spirit;” “The Drunkard’s Wife;” “Love Shall be the Conqueror;” “Spring is Coming;” “The Crystal Spring;” “Let the Joys of Youth Appearing,” &c., wh. were sung by her with a gusto & pathos wh. produced a magi-

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cal influence on all who had a spark of feeling & an appreciation of the true & beautiful.

Never shall I forget a meeting that was held in the Town Hall, Middlesbro’, to hear a man of colour, who had come to give a lecture on “American Slavery,” & to advocate the cause of three millions of his brothers in bondage. He was, himself, an escaped convict slave. The choir assembled a quarter of an hour before the meeting commenced, waiting the arrival of the man of colour. The moment he stepped into the Hall, with the gentlemen who accompanied him, the choir struck up –

“How bright the Sun of Freedom burnsFrom mount to mount, from shore to shore;The slave departs, the man returns,The reign of force & fraud is o’er;‘Tis Truth’s own beam, from sea to seaFrom mount to mount, from vale to wave.Her ministers this night are weTo free, to free, to free the Slave!”

“We’ll free the slave of every clime –Whate’er the chain that binds his soulWe’ll publish forth this truth sublimeFrom farthest Indus to the Pole;That Man, how proud soe’er he beIs but a poor & paltry Knave,Who joins not now, with you & meTo free, to free, to free the Slave,”

The above song was sung to the air of “Ye Banks & Braes o’ Bonny Doon.” Upon such an occasion & for such an

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object, the effect was thrilling, the audience joining in the chorus with hearty good will, greatly enhanced the scene. Jessy’s voice could be distinctly heard ringing out its full, rich, & mellow tone above all others, she having a voice of different quality to any of those present.

Father was exceedingly proud of Jessy as a singer; was partial to many of Jessy’s little songs; learnt her many of his own tit-bits, & the pair used constantly to sing together with great feeling & delight.

When up at the Exhibition in 1851, whilst stopping at brother Edward’s lodgings, father was the means of keeping Edward & the other lodgers many nights at home, by relating anecdotes & singing favourite melodies, & telling droll stories of his own experience. The fol. song was a great one with father, to the tune of “My own Blue Bell” –

“My own dear home, my own bright home,What visions of loveliness round it roam;There they stray, through the live-long dayAnd chase the dark shades of the night away

“The monarch may boast of his marble & goldAnd luxuries splendid around him roll’d;I care not for them, for where’er I roam,I live in the light of my own dear home.

“My own dear home,“My own bright home.” &c. &c.

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Sister Mary was also a good singer. Whilst I was at home, Mary was spent many years in Scotland & in other parts, & I had not much opportunity of seeing & hearing much of her in this respect. I have, however, a distinct impression of her return from Scotland after her first visit, & was with Mr. Whitfield. Our people resided in the same house in Thompson Street. I recd. notice, while at business, that the long-absent sister had arrived, & remember with what glee I sped my way home to greet her at night. When I arrived, Mary was unfolding all her treasures, re-folding & re-arranging, dusting & gazing upon them. There were presents for the youngsters, but her stock-in-trade was principally comprised of fine “toggery.” I recd. one present, – a beautiful Illustrated Testament, with notes, by Rev. H. Stebbing, containing “The Psalms of David, in metre, with notes practical & explanatory;” also, “Translations & paraphrases in verse of several passages of scripture.” Being passionately fond of poetry, this testament was a special favourite with me – & is yet. Some of the pieces I committed to memory. One was a paraphrase on the words – Eccles. 12, 6. – “Remember thy creator in the days of thy youth” wh. runs thus –

1. – “In life’s gay morn, when sprightly youth with ardour glows,And charms in all the fairest charms wh. beauty can disclose;

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2. Deep in thy soul, before its powersAre yet by vice enslavedBe thy Creator’s glorious nameAnd character engraved

3. For soon the shades of grief shall cloudThe sunshine of thy daysAnd cares & toils, in endless roundEncompass all thy ways.

4. Soon shall thy heart the woes of ageIn mournful groans deploreAnd sadly muse on former days,That now return no more.”

More than once have I repeated the above in connection with a public address to the young.

Another book wh. Mary presented me with was “The Youth’s Instructor,” in one vol, & wh. I still have. This book also contained Poetry, & good articles. In all her gifts, Mary had an idea of the useful & practical. One book I recd. by post from Mary, at Barnard Castle – “Johnson’s Dictionary.” Poorly educated as I was – having been packed off to business at 11 yrs old, & having to pick up odd scraps of learning as best I could – this book was an inestimable boon.

But, I am wandering from the subject under its proper

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heading – singing. It was only on this occasion that I had heard Mary exercise her musical organs. She had a number of Scotch songs, wh. she sang with great effect. One was – “Ah, why left I my hame?” – was specially sweet, so pretty that even I, who possessed but of a small share of tune & voice, have sung frequently to myself, when journeying abroad, or taking healthy exercise. Mother was careful & desirous of keeping us from learning & singing “songs.” She was attached to sacred music, but was still partial to Mary’s Scotch ditties, & I have heard mother request Mary, as a favour, to sing a song now & then, saying, “Now, Mary, you know I don’t like songs, but those you sing are so sweet, that I do like them.” Then, as all good singers are proverbially shy, with a little coaxing, Mary would start off with her favourites, much to the delight of mother & all assembled.

Tom professes “to be a bit of a singer;” Wm., Alfred, Jessy, & Mary; but George, John, Charles, & Emma “don’t profess” at all, but Ned can do a trifle.

Leaving Home.

There is one scene connected with Thompson Street, wh. will live in my memory whilst life shall last. It was from here I made my first plunge into the world, on an independent footing, by Leaving Home for Barnard Castle.

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I had been some yrs with Mr. Whitfield, & left in July, 1842, thro’ some slight dissatisfaction about the “grub.” Having secured a situation at Barnard Castle, I left home on the 20th of Sep., 1842, for that place. Up to the morning of starting, I was “big” with 1 idea of a new situation – of being on a more independent footing – of being, in fact, a “junior assistant” in my new place, whilst previously I had only fulfilled 1 position of “errand boy.” I was very brave up to 1 hour of starting – none of yr. mawkish sentimentality abt. leaving home, &c., was to take possession of me – to my then thinking – I wd. soon be a man, & the like. I had carried this lofty feeling to a goodly pitch, until the morning of starting, & was just on the point of leaving, when mother fol.d. me into 1 passage. “Good bye, mother!” I was just going to utter, with great glee; but alas! how frail & touchy is poor humanity, when dear affection steps in. I caught a glance of mother’s sweet & loving countenance, gushing with maternal tenderness & anxious solicitude for my future welfare – I saw the big tears streaming down her care-worn face – I watched the trembling accents of her voice, & listened to the pathetic & soul-inspiriting injunctions – and I was unmanned. For once, I played the woman, & wept, my feelings being quite overcome. I never got out, “Good bye, mother!” but, with a parting kiss, my tears mingled with mother’s, & with the kind-souled, motherly advice ringing in mine ears, I tore myself

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from the scene, & hurried off with a small green box, wh. contained my scanty wardrobe & book-treasures, to [the] old Stockton & Darlington railway station. There was no occasion for a cab or a ‘bus to carry my luggage!

Whenever I want to recal [sic] the loved form of my dear, good mother, & to revive a vivid picture of her sweet countenance & benign influence, my memory repaints this scene; & in my brief career, many, many times have I lived it o’er & o’er again. Who can fully describe the gushing tenderness of a mother’s love – whose heart is a deep & inexhaustible fountain of Affection’s purest streams, bubbling up, ever fresh and ever new? –

“There’s music in a mother’s voice,More sweet than breezes sighing;There’s kindness in a mother’s glance,Too pure for ever dying.“There’s Love within a mother’s heart,So deep, ‘tis still o’erflowing;And care for those she calls her own,That’s ever, ever growing.“There’s anguish in a mother’s tear,When farewell fondly taking,That so the heart of pity moves –It scarcely keeps from breaking.“And when a mother kneels to heaven,And for her child is praying,Oh, who can half the fervour tellThat burns in all she’s saying?“A mother! when like evening’s star,Her course has ceased before us,From brighter world regards us still,And watches fondly o’er us!”

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Sister Margaret’s Death

There is another incident connected with this Thompson St. abode wh. will be of interest to the family, especially to those who were but little at home, & knew little of Margaret.

The death of sister Margaret took place on the 11th April, 1845. In the latter end of March, or early in April, I had been over to Stockton, spending my holidays (being then with Pulman, at Barnard Castle), & left Margaret in her accustomed health. Judge, then, of my surprise & sorrow, on receiving the fol.g. letter from father, on the 12th of April, only aft. a fortnight after my return to Brnrd. Castle: –

“Stockton, April 11/45.

Dr. Charles. – It is my painful duty to inform you of the death of my dear little Margaret. She was well on the 9th till 5 o’clock. She then took a shivering fit, had a very bad night. Yesterday morning, she began to vomit blood, wh. contd. until nearly the time she died. Everything was done for her th. could be, but the Lord was pleased to call her to an early rest. She never struggled or sighed when she died, but passed away just as if going to sleep. – yr. affct. father “John Bell.”

I returned a letter to Stockton immediately, being deeply af-

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fected by her death, requesting further particulars, & recd. [the] fol.g. details from father: –

“Stockton-on-Tees, Ap. 16/45.

Dear Charles, – We recd. yr. affectionate letter this mg., & thank god you are so hopeful touching [the] demise of dear Margaret. She was quite well this day week, & called upon all her neighbours. That day, at 5 o’clock, she took a trembling fit, & desired to go to bed. I went to see her, & she then burnt with fever. Next morning, she vomited large quantities of blood. We got Dr. Keenleysides, who prescribed for her. He ordered fomentation, & a blister on her stomach. She walked about all day on Monday, at intervals, sometimes upstairs, & at other times laid down upon two chairs. At night she walked upstairs, with hold of my hand, to bed; but she was death-struck from the first. When in bed, she sd. “Oh, dear!” & shouted “Moder!” (mother), & kept rapping at the wall. She took her medicine every two hours, until 2 o’clock on Tuesday. At this time, she gave me it back into my hands. I sd. “Margaret, you must take it!” Dear little creature, she held out her hand for a spoon, & stirred it up. She then smiled, & said “See Padie” (or father)

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as if she was pretending to take it, & then gave it me back, as if she had drank it. I did not press it any longer. Soon after, she vomited blood, & never spoke afterwards. She slept until 7 o’clock, when she took a spoonful of tea, & laid her head upon my arm. Mother was dressing. I felt her left arm turn stiff. I said, “I believe she is dying. Call Emma;” but before Emma & Jessy came, she looked at me, smiled, & sweetly breathed her last sigh in my face, whilst her spirit quitted this mortal frame. We kept her five days. Thro’ vomiting most of her blood, she was the nicest corpse I ever beheld – she was just like waxwork.

“Mary sent us one sovereign & Tom one, wh. enabled us to meet all the expenses incurred by the funeral. There were eight young girls as bearers, & many of [the] neighbours who attended [the] funeral came to tea last night. I will write again soon. – I am, dear Chas, y. af. father, “John Bell.”

“P.S. Emma has enclosed a small portion of all that remains with us of her in this world, viz. a lock of her hair.”

Reflections. – Poor, frail little darling! She was a grt. favourite with all her brothers & sisters – most beloved by those who knew her best.

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She was a tender-hearted, loving child. She was, out of 12 children, the only weak one, physically, in the lot – the only one who really died thro’ premature disease; for Bro. James’s death was occasioned thro’ an accident, thus proving to demonstration the soundness of the constitutions of [the] Bell family – a point to wh. you have previously given prominence. Father, when referring to this point, by way of joke, frequently used to say of anything of wh. he was speaking, “Oh, it is as sound as a Bell!” thus giving a double meaning to [the] phrase. How common it is, when people are giving an act. of how many children they have had, and you ask how many are living? for them to say, “only so & so” – perhaps 6 out of 12, or 3 out of 16! So many “died in infancy,” “one when 4 yrs old,” another “at 6,” another “at 10, 21, 30,” & so on. How different with the Bells! The stock from wh. they sprung must, indeed, have been “sound wind and limb.” Margaret, however, was a weakling, stunted in body & deficient in vocal powers – unable to express her thoughts & ideas in language, tho’ she was a capital hand at making herself understood by signs & motions,

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& was not altogether deficient in language. I well remember, after I had been at Barnard Castle, about six months, having an opportunity to get a lift with a gentleman in his jig to Darlington, & availing myself of the opportunity of visiting our people – a sort of pop visit, unasked. When I reached Thompson St., Margaret was outside. She got a glance of me coming, & ran into [the] house, shouting “Charley, Charley, Charley!” (Charley, Charley), seized hold of mother’s dress, pulled her into the passage in [the] wildest state of excitement to meet me. It was looked upon as a grt. blessing th. Margaret was taken away thus early, seeing on she wd. never have supported herself, & wd. have been little more than a dwarf. Mother used to say, “Ah, poor darling! I knew she would be taken care of; I knew that, out of all my family, she won’t be allowed to want!” & mother was right. There is not a brother or sister but wd. have been delighted – nay, would have deemed it a privilege – to share the last crust with her. I used to think, “If I was a man, & cd. earn money, I wd. keep Margaret & mother;” & I am satisfied there were others who shared the same feelings. She was a kind & affectionate child, & won the affections of her brothers & sisters, her parents & neighbours.

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The phrase in father’s letter – “she had been round to see her neighbours –“ speaks [to] her geniality of disposition, akin to all the Bells. She was in [the] habit of “taking her rounds,” & was always a welcome visitor. Father & mother thought a world of poor Margaret; thus, by a wise ordination of providence, the weak are always the most thought of, & [the] sympathies of [the] strong are so excited, th. they are certain to evoke help. Some months before Margaret was born, mother received a severe shock from seeing a child deficient in mental & physical ability, at Seaton Carew, & hearing it make strange & unnatural sounds; mother was greatly frightened, & the shocking sight was deeply impressed upon her mind. Thus was poor Margaret impregnated before birth, sympathetically received from the parent. She was, however, remarkably quick in her perceptions, thoughts, & affections. Margaret was buried at [the] new church, Stockton-on-Tees.

The folg. lines are adapted, with slight alterations, from a piece pubd. in Chambers’ Edinbro’ Journal:--

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Written on Sister Margaret’s Birthday.

1. “On thy little grave, my sister, The grass waves long & green,And absent from our hearth, sister,Thou many a year hast been.But thy memory is hallow’d there,By look, & sigh, & tear,Tho’ thy name is seldom whispered –My own lost sister dear.

2. “I look towards the sunny heavens,And know that thou art there,With angel’s wings & white raiment,And face so mild & fair:Oh! then I think of Death’s dark gates,Without a throb of fear;God grant we meet beyond them, --My own lost sister dear.

3. “There’s many a scowling cloud, sister,Accross [sic] our earthly way;The midnight frost oft chills the flower,That blossoms sweet by day.Then if it blooms in fairer climes,No gathering tempest near,Should we wish we had it here to pine,My own lost sister dear?

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4. No! wherefore should we mourn for thee?Thou art not lost for aye –Tho’ thy mother for little MaggyHath wept for many a day.For if those bodies sleep in Him,Our spirits shall appearOnce more in holy fellowshipWith thee – my sister dear.

5. When the dark billows bear us, sister,Beyond the gloomy strandMay’st thou be there to welcome us,To [the] long-promis’d land!May we, a happy familyThen fill’d with heavenly cheer,Dwell there, in love to part no moreFrom thee – my sister dear.”

The Accordion Dodge.

Most lads like music & musical instruments. When Alfred was about 12 or 13 yrs. of age, he had, by dint of small savings, got sufficient cash to purchase an accordion. This instrument being private property, he of course placed the inevitable, but very prose, prohibition of “Touch not” upon it. “Stolen waters” are proverbially “sweet,” & how to get our itching fingers into con-

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tact with this then charming instrument, was the question to be solved. John & myself at last hit upon a dodge. Alfred frequently took a walk to Norton on Sun. afternoons. The prohibited instrument was on these occasions carefully placed under lock & key, in a small box of his own – a box in wh. he kept linen, &c. Now, we agreed, th. If we cd. only get into this box, we cd., by turns, play upon this instrument during his absence. Fortunately for us, the box had leather hinges on; & during his absence, with slight difficulty, we removed the hinges, replacing them ere he returned. Of course, tho’ we had both enjoyed ourselves to our heart’s content, the accordion was duly deposited in [the] box as tho’ nothing had been removed. There was a window wh., prior to [the] buildings wh. have recently been erected, looked over into Norton Road, & to prevent a reprisal, a good “lookout” was kept, & Alf. could be easily discerned at a considerable distance. At length the cry arose, “He’s coming!” “Look quick!” his tall figure nears the goal, in goes the musical instrument, one seized a hammer, another [the] nails, & the hinges were fastened on as of yore. Some one let the cat out o’ the bag, & there was “a precious row” with Alfred, & loud denunciations.

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The Leather Shillings!

“What is sauce for [the] goose is sauce for the gander,” however; & I was myself on one occasion made the victim of relying on “leather hinges” – contradicting another old adage – “there’s nothing like leather.” The incident I am about to relate will show to what straits poor father was often reduced to secure absolute necessities, either for his business or for food for [the] family. It was well known in [the] family, th. I had scraped a few shillings together by thrifty means. These shillings were deposited in a box under lock & key; but alas! also with leather hinges! Father being hard put to it for a little ready cash, removed the hinges, & at the same time “removed” (or borrowed) the said few shillings. The question appd. to have been with him, “How conceal the abstraction from me, until they cd. be replaced?” He cut four pieces of leather, of the size of shillings, & wrapped them up in the identical paper (or rag), out of wh. [the] images & superscription of her majesty had just been taken! Each time I visited [the] box, I of course glanced to see if the valued treasure was still intact; & being satisfied with the “outward & visible form,” I never looked further for [the] inward & tangible reality, until one day, having obtained another sixpence, I went to my horde to deposit

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the additional coin, when, lo! – the silver birds had flown – the Bank was broken – & leather shillings were substituted for sterling silver! Of course, I bemoaned the loss of my treasure with heartfelt sorrow; but, upon proper explanation became pacified, & the money was duly replaced, & all amicably arranged. I recollect mother calling me privately to one side, & interrogating me as to “where I had obtained the funds?” Tho’ it was known th. I had saved a little cash, she did not suspect I possessed so much! Her ansiety [sic] was to ascertain whether I come by it “honestly?” This, together with other instances wh. I shall give by & by, will show [the] watchful care mother exercised over [the] minds of her family. On this occasion, mother fairly trembled for my safety, knowing th. I was exposed to strong temptations behind a draper’s counter. After explaining in detail how I had gleaned up [the] funds in hand, mother passed her warm & loving fingers thro’ my hair, commended me for thrift, & assured me that all shd. be returned, with interest; but, above all things, to be honest, & touch not the property of others.

Tom’s Steam Engine & Boiler.

You have already related th. Tom was an ingenious fellow, wh. is perfectly true, nothing having ever come amiss to him in [the] mechanical line. During [the] time he was working at Neasom & Welsh’s, he made during leisure hours, a small steam engine – not a mere model, on a small scale, but one capable of driving a lathe or coffee mill. The boiler to this engine was abt. eight feet long, & was placed in the

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back kitchen in Thompson St., the engine being in the same place, wh. was really a handsome little gem, a masterpiece of workmanship. Father used to relate a tale of a clever son of St. Crispin, who was trained in the far-famed city of York, of wh. he (Brown) was very proud; & whenever he (Brown) got an extra charge of John Barleycorn, used to caper about Brancepeth in a braggadocio style, saying – “I’m all your masters & your master’s master – Don Brown from York!” those parties being designated “dons” who were classed as superior workmen. Bro. Tom was indeed the “don” of [the] family & district in mechanical genius – he was assuredly “all their masters, & all their master’s master” – Don Tomas [sic] Bell. Where from? To his credit be it said, from the plough tail at Hollym! Thus developing his ability & passion for the trade to wh. he was apprenticed, & the inherent force of mechanical genius & turn of mind. Mother, father, & more of us, were afraid of this formidable-looking boiler, & were not quite sure there would not be an explosion, thro’ some neglect or mismanagement, & then the whole lot of us blown to heaven knew where! The boiler whizzed, & fizzed, & blew off the steam – Tom fired her up again & again – pretended to point to the safety-valve, & cried out “all right” – looked “knowing,” & was “cool as a cucumber, whilst others were “sweating” with trepidation; but all proved ultimately safe; the boiler & engine were sold for £5, by Mrs. Stainthorpe, to a grocer to grind coffee, but Tom did not get the shine.

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In Thompson Street, [he] “fixed his eyes” on his first attachment to Isabella Stainthorpe – his first wife. I chanced to be an eye-witness to the initiation process, & tho’ but a mere lad, felt a lively interest in watching its progress. Isabella had a sister who lived on the opposite side of the street, & she was on a visit there. By some means, she became acquainted with mother, & hence arose the habit of frequent visits to our house. Of course, sweet Isabella did not for a moment think of desiring to see anyone else. Tom was there, & he applied, saw, & won her attention. I was present the first night Tom offered to “accompany” Isabella home (across the street, only); & Tom continued rather longer than the time usually required to “cross a street,” but there being a contemplated future looming in the distance, plans to arrange, & affectionate zeal to cement, Tom was excusable. After this, they were early united in the bonds of wedlock, wh. proved anything but happy at the conclusion.

[The following summaries were created by the transcriber. For each term, the frequency of occurrence in the document is noted]

Surnames

Mentioned more than once Mentioned only once

Bell 364Blenkinsop / Blenkinsopp 4Boyne 2Bridgewater 4Brown 3Eteson 6Gell 154Hall 4Henderson 16Love 3Marshall 2Pattinson 6Pritchard 2Pulman 2Richardson 3Rulter 4Russell 3Saint 7Savage 2Shaw 4Sherwood 5Shipley 4Stainthorpe 5Tathwell 2Thirkill 2Tindale 3Turnbull 2Walker 2Watson 2Whitfield 9

CollinsonCouplandCrowDebronFletcherGaleKeenleysidesLeveineMartinPlayfootSnowdonSteadWilson

Place Names

Mentioned more than once Mentioned only once

Australia (including Melbourne, Sydney and Queensland) 9Barnard Castle 7Bradford 18Brancepeth 59Brandon 3Cornsay 2Darlington 4Esh / Ash 2Gravesend 2Hamsterley 3Havannah (West Indies) 10Hollym 16Hull 11Knaresbro' / Knaresbrough 21Leasingthorne 2Leeds 5Linthorpe 2Liverpool 4London 11Middlesbro' 32Newcastle 12Norton 29Patrington 28Pitfour Castle 2Redcar 5Seaton 3Sedgefield 2Shadforth 4Southampton 2Stockton 27Willington 2York 10

BillinghamCoathamCoxhoeFiningsHorshamKendalKirkcudbrightMaltonMarskeMount BeulahStokesleyWelwickWhickham