Wednesday 15 February 2012

A Singular Interment


As the family history world begins, already, to slip into the 'calm before the storm' mode (the 'storm' being this little event), us bloggers have our work cut out filling our daily news bulletins. Just for a change, therefore, I thought I'd bring you an unusual tale from nineteenth century Hertfordshire... (back to the 'news' tomorrow)

SINGULAR INTERMENT
A few days ago, the remains of a farmer were interred at Stevenage, Hertfordshire, who died many years ago and bequeathed his estate worth £400 a year to his two brothers and, if they should die, to his nephew, to be enjoyed by them for 30 years, at the expiration of which time he expected to return to life, when the estate was to return to him. He provided for his re-appearance by ordering his coffin to be fixed on a beam in his barn, locked and the key inclosed, that he might let himself out. He was allowed four days grace beyond the time limited, and, not presenting himself, was then honoured with a Christian burial. 
[taken from the York Courant of 23rd April 1835, and submitted by David C.Poole]


Do you have any such 'oddments' which you'd like to share with BI-Gen readers? If so, send them to me at micksouthwick@blueyonder.co.uk .

And if you'd like lots more of the above, check out the publication Dead End Hobby by clicking here - available for as little as £2.00 (e-copy). A ten-page preview is available for perusal here (and click on 'Preview').


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