MEMOIRS OF THE OLD CRICKETERS
(From Lillywhite's Cricket Scores and Biographies)
By Arthur Haygarth
Edward Aburrow's last recorded match was in 1782, he now being but 35 years of age, thus abandoning the game rather early in life, why is now unknown. In Nyren's book, it is stated that he always went by the nickname of 'Curry', but no explanation is given as to the reason. He was a native of Hambledon, where he always resided, following the trade of a shoemaker. As a batsman he was steady and safe and likewise a good change bowler. He was one of the best long-fields, being a sure and strong thrower, and able to cover a great space of ground. He was a strong and well-built man standing about 5ft. 9in. in height, had a plain honest-looking face, and was well beloved by his acquaintance. His tombstone, which (in 1858) was standing in Hambledon churchyard, bears the following inscription:
Sacred to the memory of
EDWARD ABURROW
Who departed this life
The 6th Day of October 1835
Aged 88.
James Aylward was a most renowned cricketer indeed, as his scores fully testify, and was besides an excellent manager of the game, being often chosen 'general' in the great contests. On June 18, 19, and 20, 1777, he scored 167 runs in one innings against the best bowlers and fields of the day. He was for some years one of the 'cracks' of the far-famed Hambledon Club till about 1779, when Sir Horace Mann took him away to Bishopsbourne in Kent, where he made him his bailiff. After that date he is found opposed to that Club in their matches, and was a very great loss. He is one of the few Cricketers there are who from first to last continued the game for 30 seasons, as his name will be found in these pages as far on as September 13, 1802, when he was 6l years of age, though after 1793 he did not play regularly in the great matches. John Nyren (in his book) states he was introduced into the Hambledon Club by Tom Taylor, which however cannot be correct, as Taylor was his junior by several years. Aylward was a left-handed batsman, very free, but one of the safest in the club, having capital defence. He went abroad with Sir Horace, and had a son called Horace, to whom that great patron of the game stood godfather. His height was 5 feet 9 inches, being rather a bulky man for a cricketer; not a particular good field, but kept wicket well. He was born at Peak Farm, at Warnford, near Droxford, in Hampshire, but lived at Corhampton, close by, where himself and all his relations were farmers. Latterly he resided in London, and died in Edward Street, Marylebone. He was buried in St. John's Wood Churchyard, close to Lord's, December, 27, 1827, aged 86, but no tombstone was erected to his memory. He had two brothers, John and Thomas, who also played (though not in the great matches), and their tombstones are in Warnford churchyard. John reached the age of 88.
William Barber's last recorded match was in 1777, He no doubt played in many great contests previous to the commencement of this work in 1772. He was a shoemaker by trade, and resided latterly at Horndean, near Hambledon, where he also died. His native village was Walberton, near Chichester, but he was brought to Horndean by some gentlemen of the Hambledon Club who had seen him perform. The Barber and Brett family intermarried, and the former kept the 'Hut', or Bat and Ball Inn, on Broad-Halfpenny Down, at Hambledon, for twelve years, which Inn was still standing there in 1858.[1] He was buried in Catherington Churchyard, September 10th, 1805, aged 71; but no tombstone was erected to his memory.
William Beldham was born at Wrecclesham, near Farnham, in Surrey, February 5, 1766, but has lived a great part of his life since 1821 at Tilford, near the same place, where at one time he kept a public-house. He was for many years the 'crack' batsman of England, and his average is one of the largest that has ever been made, obtained too, against the best bowling and fielding of that time, being (says John Nyren in his book) 'a most venomous hitter'. As a bowler he delivered high and well, pace moderate, yet bordering on the fast, and getting up quick. He was also an excellent judge of a short run, had a good knowledge of the game, and was a very fine field. Altogether his performances have been exceeded but by few cricketers (if any), combining as he did, batting, bowling, fielding, wicket-keeping, and single-wicket playing, excelling in all. A few have played longer from first to last, but no cricketer besides Beldham has ever run an unbroken career of 35 years in great matches, as his name will be found in the Gentlemen and Players match as far on as 1821, and he never missed a season. He stated that not near all the matches in which he played were published in 'Bentley', and therefore (as in the case with many other cricketers, especially of former days) many of his wonderful feats are lost. In one single-wicket match against John Wells's bowling he made 131 runs, but the score is lost. He learned his cricket from Harry Hall, a gingerbread baker at Farnham, who used to give lessons on the 'Noble Game'. He was a farmer's son, had light coloured hair, with a fair complexion, and used to be called 'Silver Billy' by his fellow cricketers. His height is 5ft. 8½in. and his weight about 11 stones. He stated that when about twelve years of age, the size of the stumps was 18 inches by 6 for practice, but in matches 22 inches by 6. In April, 1858, when he had completed his 92nd year, he was visited by the Compiler of this book, who found him at work in his garden before 8 o'clock in the morning. He was then well and hearty, very little deaf, and slightly blind with one eye, did not stoop in the least, or require a stick to walk with. On June 21, 1852, when 86 years of age, he walked from Tilford to Godalming, a distance of about 7 miles, to see the match there between England and Godalming. Beldham is the last surviving member of the once far-famed Hambledon Club, and no cricketer of note ever reached so great an age, though cricketers generally, and the Hambledon players especially, seem to have lived long. A photograph portrait of the above remarkable man, taken when he was 91 years of age, is in possession of the Compiler of this work. Beldham was still alive when this book went to press, having reached the patriarchal age of 96, and still residing (with his wife) at Tilford. 'Take him for all in all, we ne'er shall look upon his like again.'[2]
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WILLIAM BELDHAM
('SILVER BILLY')
(Reproduced by permission from a painting from life in the possession of the M.C.C.)
Thomas Brett was a native of, or at least resided at, Catherington, about five miles from Hambledon, where he had a farm called Tine Heads Farm, which had been in possession of his ancestors for many years. In 1857 no one of his name lived there, though in his time the family was so numerous 'that it ruled the village'. He seems to have left his native place for Portsmouth, that being perhaps the reason he left off playing for the Hambledon Club so young, being then but 31 years of age. His tombstone (in a falling condition in 1858) was still to be seen in Kingston churchyard, near Portsmouth, and bore the following inscription:
Sacred to the memory Of
THOMAS BRETT
Who died December 31, 1809,
age 62 YEARS.
Two of his daughters (one aged 85) were still living at Cosham near Portsmouth in 1858.
John Frederick (third) duke of Dorset was educated at Harrow, but whether he played at cricket there is now unknown. He was one of the greatest admirers and supporters of the 'Noble Game', and kept in his employ several of the best cricketers of the day, including Miller, Minshull, and W. Bowra. The town of Sevenoaks is also much indebted to him, as he gave the Vine Ground there 'by deed of trust' to be a Cricket Ground for ever. He became Duke of Dorset in 1769, succeeding his uncle, and was before Earl of Middlesex and Baron of Buckhurst and Cranfield. He was also Lord-Lieutenant and Custos Rotulorum of the County of Kent and a Vice-Admiral of the County of Kent. In 1782 he was sworn of the Privy Council and made Captain of the Yeomen of the Guard and Master of the Horse; in 1784 he was sent as ambassador and plenipotentiary to France. On his return he was elected a Knight of the Garter and Lord Steward of the King's Household, and was also a Colonel of the West Kent Militia. He was born at March 24, 1745; and died at his seat, Knowle, near Sevenoaks, July 19, 1799, aged 54, but was buried at Withyham, in Sussex. The title became extinct with his son,[3] who was killed while out hunting, being thrown from his horse at Killiney[4] in Ireland, Feb. 14, 1815, aged 21.
'The Duke' is celebrated in verse in the Gentleman's Magazine of 1773, as follows:—
Equalled by few he plays with glee,
Nor peevish seeks for victory,
His Grace for bowling cannot yield
To none but Lumpy in the field,
And far unlike the modern way
Of blocking every ball at play
He firmly stands with bat upright
And strikes with his athletic might,
Sends forth the ball across the mead,
And scores six notches for the deed.
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THE VINE GROUND AT SEVENOAKS IN 1780
(From and engraving in the collection of Mr. A. J. Gaston)
John Frame (with Lumpy) was the most famous bowler of his day, but whether fast or slow is now unknown. All his early doings before 1772 are lost; but he certainly was well known and began to play in great matches early in life, as his name is among the list of those going to contend in a great single-wicket match in 1754 on the Artillery Ground, Finsbury Square, London. He was (it is believed) born at Wallingham in Surrey, but lived at Dartford in Kent, where he died October 11, 1796, age 63. No tombstone was erected to his memory, at least none was standing in Dartford churchyard in 1858. No further particulars of this famous bowler could be obtained; and what trade he followed is now unknown.
Richard Francis was a cricketer of much celebrity, both as a batsman and bowler. His bowling was considered a jerk, but was allowed by the Hambledon Club, the then law-givers. He was a Surrey man, but resided some time at Hambledon, and formed one of that famous Eleven; also playing for Kent. He was in stature a closely-made, firm and active little man. As his name is found in the Essex Eleven in 1793, he most probably removed to that county. Indeed, W. Beldham (in 1858), when asked to give some account of him, stated he had played with him there 77 years back.
Andrew Freemantle was younger brother of John Freemantle, whose name will be found in a few of the great contests. He continued to appear in the 'tented field' for about twenty-three seasons, and was also one of the 'cracks' of the Hambledon Club, when in its prime. He was a left-handed batsman, very steady and safe, and likewise a good hitter. He generally stood long-field, where he was very good, 'and he was to be depended on, both at cricket as well as in other worldly matters.' His height was 5ft. 9in. and his weight was list. He was born at Bishop Sutton, near Alresford, in Hampshire; but when about 30 years of age, he removed to Easton, near Winchester, where he kept the Bat and Ball Inn, also following the trade of a carpenter. He died at Easton, January 19th, 1837, aged 68; but no tombstone has been erected to his memory. [In another account his age was given as 69.] In 1858, his son Henry was keeping the same inn at Easton, and his son George (also a cricketer) was living at Winchester.
John Freemantle does not seem to have played long, but was the elder brother to the 'crack', Andrew Freemantle. His bowling was tolerably fast and was delivered high and well. As a batsman he was good, but by no means first-rate, and when fielding he never flinched from the ball. He was a hearty 'John Bull', and bore a high character for straightforward, manly integrity, and was a stout-made man of about 5ft. 10in. in height. His native village was Bishop Sutton, in Hants, but he resided at Alresford, being a master builder in that town. His tombstone in New Alresford Churchyard bears the following inscription:
In memory of
JOHN FREEMANTLE
Who died August 3, 1831,
Age 73 years.
David Harris's first recorded match was on the Vine ground in 1782, for the Hambledon Club against Kent, though John Nyren in his book expressly states, that he began to play in the great contests in 1778. Nyren also mentions that he came from Odiham, in Hampshire, but the compiler of this volume was informed by one of D. Harris's nephews, that the Harrises living at Odiham were no relations. Harris was a left-handed batsman, but did not excel in that department of the game, though curiously enough he got the score in this his first innings. He was also not much of a field, though game to the backbone. His bowling was right-handed, and in this capacity he was not to be excelled either in his own day or since. It must likewise be remembered and taken into consideration, that he had much smaller wickets to bowl at than those afterwards used. All the wickets likewise he got by catches, stumping, hit-w., &c., are lost, as in his day scores were imperfectly drawn up in that respect. His delivery was fast, and it is expressly stated that he got more wickets by catches off his bowling than the other cracks of his time. In bowling he never stooped in the least, and his balls when pitched were touch and up again. By holding the ball over his head before starting, he used to gain freedom of arm. To his fine execution the improvement in batting at that time was attributed. In the winter, and in wet weather, he used to practise in a barn, hence his superiority. It is recorded that often (no analysis was then kept) of an innings of 70 or 80, but 8 or 9 runs have been made off his end. During the latter part of his career (he was unable to play after 1798), Harris suffered much from the gout, and latterly, in fact, was quite a cripple. He often walked to the ground on crutches to play, when, after delivering a few balls, and getting warm, he would still perform splendidly. In one match his execution was so fine that a gold-laced hat was presented to him. Lord Frederick Beauclerk used to say that Harris's bowling was the grandest thing of the kind he ever saw, but even he could not have known him in his prime. He was considerably faster than William Lambert, and superior in style and finish altogether. David Harris was born at Elvetham, in Hampshire, but when quite a child, removed to Crookham, in the same county. He lived there all his life, following the business of a potter, and died there. The Parish Register did not give his age, merely stating he was buried at Crondall (close to Crookham), May 19, 1803. The compiler of this sketch was, however, informed by one of Harris's nephews (Mr. Timothy Hill, residing in 1858 at Ewshot, near Farnham), that he was only 48 at the time of his decease. He never was married, and no tombstone has been erected to mark the resting-place of this celebrated man.
William Hoosflesh's name only appears in eight matches in Lillywhite's book, his career commencing before 1772. He was very famous in his day as a bowler, and Nyren stated he had a high delivery. His place of residency was Southwick near Hambledon, where he was buried. No tombstone was erected to his memory, but the register states that William Hogsflesh was buried there April 29, 1818, age 74. According to this he was only 32 years of age when he left off playing in the great matches. (Though the above is believed to have been the old Hambledon Club player, still it is not quite certain, as, by another account, he lived and died at the village of Hambledon.)
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WILLIAM LAMBERT IN OLD AGE
(From a photograph in the possession of Mr. A. J. Gaston)
Lamborn's first recorded match was in 1777, and he appears only to have played for five seasons. John Nyren, in his book, calls him Lambert, which, however, is no doubt a mistake, as in the old score-book the name is spelt Lamborn throughout. He was always called 'The Little Farmer', and was a right-handed bowler, with an extraordinary delivery and twist from the off to the leg. He taught himself by (when tending his father's sheep) setting up a hurdle or two, and bowling away for hours together . . . He was, it is believed, a Surrey man; but his Christian name, native village, date of death, and age, could not be discovered. He was a regular country bumpkin, a very civil and inoffensive young fellow, but did not continue the game long, why is not recorded.
George Leer's last recorded match was in 1782, he being now only 33 years of age, thus discontinuing the game early in life, why is now unknown. He was a good and successful bat, but was mostly famous as longstop to Brett's tremendous bowling in the Hambledon matches. He was always called 'Little George', and was a fine singer, having a sweet counter-tenor voice. In Nyren's book, he is stated to have been a native of Hambledon, but latterly he was a brewer, residing at Petersfield, where he died. He is, however, buried in Hambledon churchyard, where his tombstone (in 1858) was nearly illegible. The inscription was, however, as follows:
Sacred to the Memory of
GEORGE LEER,
Who died February 1st, 1812,
Aged 63.
He was a short man, of fair complexion, and of a pleasing aspect. It may also be stated that his name is spelt as above, and not Lear, as in Nyren's book, and in the old scores.
'Lumpy's' last recorded match was for England against Hampshire, on the Vine in 1789, he being now 54 years of age. His real name was Edward Stevens, though he always played under the former appellation, which was given him (said Beldham in 1857) because he was so fat. A Hampshire paper of 1859, however, states that he acquired the name because he once, at one of the dinners of the Hambledon Club, 'did eat a whole apple-pie.' By a third account, however, he acquired this nickname from some peculiarity in his bowling. The compiler of this book has (contrary to his usual custom) not inserted his real name in the matches in which he appears, because he was so much better known by that of 'Lumpy'. He was no batsman, but was most celebrated as a bowler, being able to deliver more balls of a length than any other man, and he never used to tire; his pace was faster than Lord F. Beauclerk's, but much slower than David Harris's. It must be remembered, also, and allowed for, that (as is the case with other bowlers of his time) he had during the greater part of his career only two stumps to attack, it being then not considered out when the ball passed between these two. Only since 1775, or thereabouts, did he have three stumps to bowl at; and even then the height and breadth were much smaller than those afterwards used. 'Lumpy' was always pleased when wickets fell to him by shooters, and always tried to get the stumps pitched for this end, with a rising piece of ground.
For honest Lumpy did allow,
He ne'er could pitch but o'er a brow.
Like David Harris, he did not get so many of his opponents out by catches off rising balls. The Earl of Tankerville once bet £100 (and won it) that Lumpy would hit a feather once in four balls while bowling on the Burway Ground, at Chertsey. Most of his earliest, and no doubt best, performances are lost, as when this book commences (in 1772) he must have reached the age of 37. His native village was, it is believed, Send, in Surrey; but, when quite young, he was brought to live at Chertsey by Mr. Porter, a brewer and staunch supporter of the game. Latterly he was gardener to the Earl of Tankerville, at his seat near Walton-onThames. 'Lumpy' was a thick-made, round-shouldered man, about 5ft. 7in. in height, and weighed about list. When young, he was, it is supposed, 'a bit of a smuggler;' but in John Nyren's book he is stated to have been 'plain in all his dealings'. Hambledon was his favourite spot, and he used to visit the scene of his former exploits long after he had abandoned the game. There is (1860) in the Waterloo Inn, Barn Green, near Hambledon, a picture of him dancing with a jug of ale in his hand; for he was a curious and eccentric character, full of fun and humour. He is buried in Walton-on-Thames churchyard, and his tombstone (which was erected by his patron, the Earl of Tankerville) bears the following inscription:—
To the Memory of
MR. EDWARD STEVENS,
Who departed this Life
The 7th day of September, 1819,
Aged 84.
Sir horace Mann's last recorded match was in 1782, for six of Kent against six of the Hambledon Club. His name is not to be found in these pages since 1773, and why he did not play between these periods is now unknown. Most of his matches, however, probably took place before this book commences in 1772. In the old song he is mentioned as,
A batter of great might.
He was one of the greatest patrons and admirers of cricket there ever has been; and at one of his country seats, Bourne House, Bishopsbourne, near Canterbury, several great county matches came off. He had another fine place at Linton, near Maidstone; also at Sissinghurst; and nearly one half of the parish of Frittenden, being an extensive landowner in Kent. He was 'agreeable, gay, and affable'. When anxious about a match (says John Nyren in his book), he would walk about outside the ground, cutting down the daisies with his stick. He had several famous cricketers in his employ, including John and George Ring; who were his huntsman and whipper-in. The Gentleman's Magazine of 1814 has the following: 'He was a member of the House of Commons for five successive Parliaments, for Sandwich, from to 1807. His life was rather dedicated to pleasure than business. Enjoying a good constitution, he was much attached to gymnastic exercises, especially cricket, which as he advanced in life he relinquished for the more sedate amusement of whist. Of late years (after his bankruptcy), he regularly passed his time between Bath and Margate, and was a warm promoter of every institution and improvement in those places.' At Dandelion, near Margate, also several good matches came off under his patronage, after he had left Bishopsbourne. He had three daughters, but no sons, so the title is extinct. He died at Margate, April, 1814, aged 70, but is buried at Linton, near Maidstone. No tablet or memorial has been erected to him there.[6]
Noah Mann's first recorded match was Barber's last. [He made 23 and 11; Barber spectacles.] Born at Northchapel, in Sussex, November 15th, 1756; he was a shoemaker by trade, and kept an inn at his native village. He was left-handed, both as a batsman and a bowler, and, like all left-handed men, was a very hard hitter. His left-handed bowling (under-hand of course) had an extraordinary curve the whole way, and was very deceptive; he was also wonderfully active, could cover an immense deal of ground, darting about like lightning. He could also perform extraordinary feats of agility on horseback, being able to pick up from the ground handkerchiefs while going at full speed. Was one of the swiftest runners of his day, and won many matches which were often got up after the games were over. He used to go, in the summertime, every Tuesday to Hambledon, to practise, a distance of about 20 miles. In stature he was short, swarthy as a gipsy, broad-chested, with large hips, and spider legs, all muscle, and always played without a cap or hat. His son, Noah, was afterwards engaged by the Marylebone Club as a practice bowler for about sixteen years, and his name will be found in some of the matches at Lord's. His youngest son was named Horace, after Sir Horace Mann, who kindly consented to stand godfather to him. He, however, died when only 18 years of age. 'Poor Noah,' his death was a melancholy one: he had been out shooting, and on his return to the Half Moon Inn, at Northchapel, wet and tired, he had a free carouse with his companions; refusing to go to bed, he persisted in sleeping all night in his chair in front of the fire. It was and still is the custom in that part of the country to heap together all the ashes on the hearth, for the purpose of keeping the fire in till the next day. During the night, having fallen asleep, the sparks ignited his clothes (or, as stated in Nyren's book, he fell upon the embers), and he was so severely burnt that he died the next day, not surviving twenty-four hours. His death took place at the early age of 33, in December, 1789. But few cricketers will be found to have done so much in such a short career, taking his batting, bowling, and wonderful fielding all into consideration. An inquest was held on his body, when a verdict of 'Accidental Death' was returned. No tombstone was erected to his memory.
Joseph Miller's average in the few matches in which his name appears is very good, but his best performances are lost. He was (says Nyren) gamekeeper either to the Earl of Tankerville or the Duke of Dorset, but most probably wilh the latter, as he formed one of the Kent Eleven. His style of batting was beautiful, 'firm and steady as the Pyramids,' to be depended on, and very active. He was also a kind-hearted and amiable man. In the Gentleman's Magazine of 1773, he is celebrated as
Miller, of England's cricketers the best.
There seems, by referring to the Hampshire match played July 20, 1774, to have been two, but it is almost certain that J. was the 'crack' and played in the great contests of the day. Latterly he seems to have lived with Sir Horace Mann, as he died at Bridge near Canterbury, close to Sir Horace's country seat at Bishopsbourne. The register at Bridge stated that he was buried October 20, 1799, but no age was added.
Minshull's last recorded match was in 1790. With Miller he was considered the best batsman opposed to the Hambledon Club. He was gardener to the Duke of Dorset and was a thick-set man about 5ft. 9in- in height and not very active. He is believed to have come out of Middlesex, but his native village, Christian name, date of death and age, could not be discovered. The name is found spelt Minshall and also Minchin.
Richard Purchase's first recorded match for Hambledon was against England in 1773, he being now but 16 years of age, having been born at Liss, near Petersfield, September 24, 1756. His name will not be found in these pages from 1774 to 1781; and why he did not play between those periods is now unknown. He was a member of the Hambledon Club when in its prime, being a slowish bowler of a good length, his balls getting up uncommonly well. He was also a fair hitter, and a tolerable field. He had no cunning about him, nor was he up to the tricks of the game; in playing, as in all other actions in life, he was the same straightforward, honest fellow. Once in a match (score not preserved), Richard Purchase and William Harding, of Frensham, in Surrey, went in first in the second innings for 228 runs. They got 200 before they were parted, when all the rest of their side made but 20 more between them, thus losing the game! In stature, he was a slightly-made man, of a dark complexion. By trade, he was a blacksmith in his native village, where he lived all his life, but was very poor latterly, giving up his business to his sons, who supported him. He used to be called 'Old Doctor Purchase', which name he obtained because he used occasionally 'to bleed the villagers'. He died at Liss, April 1st, 1837, aged 80; but no tombstone was erected to his memory. In 1858, one of his sons was residing at the same village, following his father's trade; and another was keeping the White Horse Inn, at St. Cross, near Winchester.
John Ring's first recorded match was Kent v. the Hambledon Club, in 1782. He was born at Darenth, near Dartford in Kent, 1758. He lived at Sutton-at-Hone, with —— Mumford, Esq., till he was 21 years of age, when Sir Horace Mann took him to Bishopsbourne, as his head huntsman. He was for some time considered the 'crack' batsman in Kent, steady and scientific, and to be depended on, as well as a famous leg-hitter. He was also a noted single-wicket player, being engaged in several of that kind of contests. In the field he generally stood cover-point. His height was only 5 ft. 5 in., and his weight 11 st., strong-limbed, and thick-set. John Nyren (in his work), curiously enough makes no mention of him among the opponents of the Hambledon Club; his name no doubt was accidentally omitted. Of this player, The Cricket Field (speaking through Beldham), remarks:—'The law for leg-before-wicket was not passed, nor 'much wanted, till Ring, one of our best hitters, was shabby enough to get his leg in the way and take advantage of the bowlers, and when Tom Taylor, another of our best hitters, did the same, the bowlers found themselves beaten, and the law was passed to make leg-before-wicket Out.' It must, however, be observed, that in the old laws of 1774, the rule about leg-before-wicket is found, and as this was several years before the appearance of Ring as a cricketer, it is impossible to say how these facts can be reconciled. Ring died of a fever, which it is believed was partly caused by the following circumstance:—In the summer of 1800, George Ring (his brother) was bowling to him, when the ball suddenly rose and broke his nose. In consequence he was laid up for several weeks, and though his death did not immediately ensue, still it was attributed to the above accident. A bat of Ring's is to be seen at the Pavilion at Lord's with the addition of ' Little Joey 'affixed to it, which nickname, it is believed, also belonged to Ring. He died at Bridge near Canterbury, October 25, 1800, aged 42, under the same roof that the 'crack' Miller had expired beneath, the year previously. A tombstone was erected to his memory, but was not in existence in 1859.
Robert Robinson's first recorded great match was in 1792, he then, though he must have appeared several years previously, being 27 years of age. In Nyren's Cricketer's Guide, his name (though no description of him is given) is inserted among the list of the crack Hambledon Eleven; but he could not have played with that club for long, nor indeed is his name found in any of their contests. He was a left-handed batsman, and a terrific hitter, being for several years one of the best in England, and for his off-hitting or cutting he was most renowned. His average will be found one of the highest, though he only once (it is believed) made 100 runs in one innings in great matches, and that curiously enough in the first season in which his name appears. That he should have obtained such a celebrity is more wonderful, because when a boy he accidentally lost (through fire) a finger of his right hand; he was, in consequence, obliged to have all his bats 'grooved' to fit his deformity. They had to be cut in one place of the handle, and then strengthened by iron let in. [One of them is still to be seen at Lord's.] When fielding or catching, he could only use his sound hand, being in fact, a cricketer under difficulties. He was nicknamed 'Long Bob', and likewise 'Three-fingered Jack'. He was engaged some time (it is believed just before his death) at Dereham, in Norfolk, and at one time he was gamekeeper to J. Laurell, Esq. He introduced spikes of monstrous length for one shoe, and also made for himself ' pads 'of two thin boards placed angle-wise, off which the ball went with great noise; but being laughed at, he discontinued them.[7] Robinson was a fine, tall, and powerfully-built man, 6 ft. 1 in. in height, and weighed about 16st. He was a farmer's son, and was born at Ash, near Farnham, in Surrey, where he resided for much of his life, and died there September 2nd, or October 2nd, 1822, aged 57; but no tombstone has been erected to his memory. His career continued till 1819, when he was 54 years of age, thus playing later in life than the generality of cricketers. In 1860, one of his sons was residing at Frimley, in Surrey.
Thomas Scott was a very successful batsman indeed with the Hambledon Club, for several seasons. John Nyren, however, gives no account of him in his book, though he inserts his name in a list of the best Eleven of that famous club. By trade he was (it is believed) a glover, at Alton, in Hampshire, where he resided, and was probably born. In 1857, his tombstone was standing in Alton churchyard, with the following inscription:
In memory of
THOMAS, son of THOMAS and SARAH SCOTT,
Who departed this life November 5, 1799,
Aged 33 years.
There were also some verses on the tablet, but they could not be deciphered. With the exception of Noah Mann (who was burnt to death) and Scott, most of the old Hambledon players, and their opponents, seem to have lived to a good old age; indeed this remark will apply to cricketers generally.
John small, Sen.'s last recorded match was for Hampshire against the M.C.C. at Lord's in 1798, he being then 6l years of age; and but few, if any, cricketers have continued playing so late in life in county matches. He is said to have commenced his career in great matches in 1755, when only 18 years of age. If so, he played longer than any other cricketer ever has done; but he certainly appeared in no county match after the present one, though probably he played in the vicinity of Petersfield some years longer. Small's average, though very good, will not be found so high as Beldham's, T. Walker's, and a few others of that period; but this is to be accounted for from the fact that none of his innings previous to 1772 can anywhere be found, and therefore all the scores he made when in his prime are lost, as he had completed his 35th year when his name is first found in this book. As a bat, Small was 'tip-top', using his wrists well, and was a capital judge of the short run. He was also a most splendid field, active as a hare, and generally taking the post of middle-wicket. This 'admirable old man' was originally a shoemaker, but relinquished that trade to follow the game of cricket. He was long the 'crack' batsman of the Hambledon Club, of which he was one of the original members. (It would be interesting to know the names of the great players when Small began to play.) He also excelled in making bats and balls, keeping a shop for the sale of them. Indeed the latter were considered matchless; and when 80 years of age, he sold the last half dozen balls he ever made to E. H. Budd, Esq., from whom W. Ward, Esq., afterwards wished to purchase them at a guinea a piece! When he first began cricket, of course the crooked bat and scraping style of play must have been in use, and therefore more credit is due to Small in being able, when about 38 years of age, to change his play to the straight and defensive system! Small was also an excellent sportsman, and a capital shot. He held the deputation of the manor of Grantham and Foley many years, as gamekeeper, under Madame Beckford, and retained it under her son, till it was given up, and then he was 70 years of age. Such was his activity and strength at that period of his life, that before he began his day's amusement, he regularly took his tour of 7 miles, frequently doing execution with his gun, and he followed the hounds on foot till three or four years before he died! Besides being a good skater, and figuring frequently on Petersfield pond, he was an excellent musician, performing both on the violin and violoncello, and was one of the choir of Petersfield church for 75 years, namely, from the time he was 14 years of age, till his death! He played on the tenor violin, and that too without the aid of spectacles, till the last year of his life. The Duke of Dorset once sent him as a present a fine violin, and Small returned the compliment with some fine bats, also paying the carriage. Once when returning in the evening from a party which he had been attending as a musician (which he often did when he was young) he was attacked by a bull. By playing however on his violin, the bull (so it was said) stopped, and thus his skill saved his life. He was father of John and Eli Small. John Small, sen., was born at Empshott, in Hampshire, April 19, 1737, but removed to Petersfield when about six years old, and resided there all his life. His equal as a cricketer has seldom been met with, and it is only to be regretted that no particulars of his early career, or any account of how he first came to excel so in the game, now remain. His tombstone, standing (in 1860) in Petersfield churchyard, bears the following inscription:—
Sacred to the memory of
JOHN SMALL,
Who died December 31, 1826,
Aged 89 years.
'Praises on tombs are trifles vainly spent,
A man's good name is his own monument.'
Here lies, bowled out by Death's unerring ball,
A Cricketer renowned, by name John Small.
But though his name was Small, yet great his fame,
For nobly did he play the noble game;
His life was like his innings, long and good,
Full ninety summers he had death withstood,
At length the ninetieth winter came, when (fate
Not leaving him one solitary mate)
This last of Hambledonians, old John Small,
Gave up his bat and ball, his leather, wax, and all.
And again—
John Small make bat and ball,
Pitch a wicket, play at cricket
With any man in England.
John small, Jun.'s last recorded match was on Highdown Hill in Sussex, in 1811, for Sussex against Storrington. He was son of John Small, sen., and was born at Petersfield, in Hampshire, where he resided all his life. Like his father, he was a capital field at middle-wicket, an excellent judge of a short run, besides possessing a superior knowledge of the game; he was also for several years one of the 'crack' batsmen of the day, though certainly he was not equal to the 'Old Small', nor did he continue the game in great matches so late in life, being now 46 years of age, while his father's name appears in a county match when he had reached the age of 6l. When only 19 years old, however, his name will be found in the Hambledon Club Eleven, of which he was a member. He was a handsomely made man, with wellknit, compact limbs and frame, about 5ft. 9 in. in height. He was the playfellow and club-mate of John Nyren, who in his account of the Hambledon cricketers gives him an excellent character as a strictly honest man, as well as being a first-rate hitter. In addition to his other accomplishments, he was an excellent musician. His tombstone in Petersfield churchyard, close to those of his father, brother, and his two wives, bears the following inscription:—
Sacred to the memory of
JOHN SMALL,
Who departed this life the 21st of January, 1836,
Aged 70 Years.
His son John is (1860) a draper, &c., at Petersfield, carrying on a good business in the same house as his father and grandfather used to live in.
Peter Stewart's last recorded match was in 1779The name of Stewart indeed appears again in Hambledon and Hampshire matches, but as no initials are prefixed generally, it is impossible to say which of the brothers (and there were several), it is playing. The name is spelt as above, and not Steward, as in Nyren's book. Peter was nicknamed 'Buck' and was a carpenter and shoemaker by trade. He played long-field, being a very steady man there. As a bat he could cut very well to the off. Was a dark-looking man, slimly built, very active, and was ambitious to be thought a humourist. He no doubt played in many matches before this book commences in 1772 and was at one time landlord of the 'Green Man' at Hambledon. No tombstone exists to his memory in Hambledon churchyard (though there is one to his wife), but by searching the register it was found he was buried at Hambledon, February 15, 1796, but the age was not added. Only four of the true old Hambledon eleven, which used from about 1770 to 1790 to play against All England, seem to have been buried there, namely Thomas Sueter, Edward Aburrow, George Leer, and Peter Stewart.
Thomas Sueter, whose last recorded match was in 1791, is stated in John Nyren's book to have been a most famous wicket-keeper to Brett's tremendouspaced bowling; but in the contests in which his name appears, no one is found to have been got out in that way by him. But in his day, when a man was stumped out, it seems not to have been scored down as such. As a bat, he was one of the best, and, like all lefthanded hitters, could cut well to the off. Nyren does not state that he was a left-handed player; but as his name is found on that side in their match against the right in 1790, it is taken for granted that he was so. 'He is said to have been the first (or one of the first) who departed from the custom of the old players, who deemed it a heresy to leave the crease for the ball; but he would get in at it, hit it straight off and straight on, and, egad, it went as if it had been fired.' He was also an excellent judge of a short run. (It may here be remarked, that all wicket-keepers of note have also, almost without exception, been tip-top batsmen.) A Hampshire paper of 1859 stated, that when only 17 years of age he went to play a match at the Earl of Tankerville's, and stayed in three whole days; but the score is lost. For the last few seasons in which he played his name is found in the Surrey Eleven, and against Hambledon; why is now unknown. Perhaps for a short time he migrated into that county. His name is occasionally spelt Souter, and Suter, but both ways are incorrect. Over Hambledon church door is affixed the following: 'Thomas Sueter and Richard Flood, builders, 1788.' He had a fine tenor voice, was a handsome man, measuring about 5ft. lOin., of an amiable disposition, his word being never doubted. He was a native of Hambledon, and by trade a carpenter and builder. He belonged to the choir at his native village, and when he died there he left behind him a sovereign, in order that an anthem should be sung in the church over his corpse, which was done. His tombstone was standing (in 1858) in Hambledon churchyard, and bears the following inscription:—
Sacred to the memory of
THOMAS SUETER
Who departed this life
the 17th day of February, 1827,
Aged 77 Years.
The (4th) Earl of Tankerville was a successful batsman in the few matches his name appears, but most probably he scored best before Lillywhite's book commences in 1772. He was a great patron and admirer of the 'noble game' and kept several good cricketers in his employ, including Lumpy and Bedster. In the old song he is celebrated as 'The active Earl of Tankerville', and in 1773 made the famous match Surrey v. Kent, which he won, and about which a poem has been composed. His country seat was Mount Felix at Walton-on-Thames, in Surrey, where he had no ground, but had (it is believed) a small one for practice at Byfleet, adjoining Chertsey. Many good country matches however were played under his patronage, on the famous Laleham-Burway Ground near Chertsey. He was born at , November 15, 1743, and died [in 1822] at Mount Felix. He is buried at the family vault at Harlington near Hounslow, where no monument has been erected to his memory.
Thomas Taylor was a very fine off hitter indeed, though too fond of cutting straight balls, which, indeed, was often the cause of his losing his wicket. Was a short well-made man, but strong and active, and one of the best fields ever seen. Of his bowling, John Nyren in his book makes no mention, but he seems to have obtained several wickets. Taylor was one of the two men (J. Ring, it is believed, being the other) of whom it is recorded that he was 'shabby' enough to put his leg purposely before the wicket when batting, which caused the law about 'leg before wicket' to be made by the Hambledon Club. In 1774, however, before Taylor's first match, this improvement in the game will be found in the laws, and it is therefore now impossible to reconcile these conflicting statements. He was a native of Ropley, in Hampshire, but lived some time at Alresford, where he kept an inn. He is buried in Old Alresford churchyard; but no tombstone was erected to his memory, nor was his name or age to be found in the register of burials, which was searched. The Sporting Magazine, however, of April 29th, 1806, states that 'Thomas Taylor, the famous cricketer of the Globe Inn, died lately.' On searching the register of baptisms at Ropley, his name is found inserted there October 18th, 1753; his age, therefore, was, as nearly as possible, 52. Nyren, in his account of the Hambledon Club men, states that 'he was without guile, and an attached friend '.
Richard Aubery Veck's first recorded match. He was one of the most successful batsmen of the Hambledon Club when in its prime, though (owing to his marriage) he did not continue the game above nine seasons. Curiously enough John Nyren in his history of Hambledon Cricketers makes no mention of him, though he does nearly all the others. His name was no doubt accidentally omitted. Was born at New Alresford, in Hampshire where he resided (being engaged in mercantile pursuits till 1784, when he removed to Bishops Waltham in the same county). His height was about 5ft. 9¼in. and he was a well-grown man. He is buried in a vault in Old Alresford churchyard over which a handsome monument to his memory bears the following inscription:—
In memory of
RICHARD AUBERY VECK
Who died at bishops waltham
On the 13th day of November 1823.
Age 67 Years.
Harry Walker, whose first recorded match was in 1784, was born at Hide Farm, Churt, near Frensham, in Surrey, where all his family were farmers, their land being at Hindhead, near the Devil's Punch Bowl. Harry's average altogether will be found good, but he was not quite so famous as his brother Tom, though a far superior hitter, indeed 'his half hour at the wicket was considered better than Tom's whole afternoon'. He was left-handed, and, like all left-handed batsmen, could cut very finely to the off; in fact, it was said that he was the first who brought this kind of hit to any perfection. From his name first appearing in a great single-wicket match, it is presumed that he was already a player of some celebrity, but his earlier contests, if any, are lost. About 1794, he left Churt, and resided at Brook, near Witley, in Surrey, following the business of a maltster. In height he was about 5ft. 11 in., and in weight about 13 stones. No tombstone has been erected to his memory, but he was buried in Witley churchyard, July 22, 1805, aged 45. Was married, but left no children.
Thomas Walker's first recorded match was in 1786. He was born at Hide Farm, at Churt, near Frensham, in Surrey, November 16, 1762, and was a brother to Harry and John Walker, who also played in the Surrey Eleven. Tom was one of the steadiest batsmen that has ever appeared, and made some extremely long innings (often going in first and carrying out his bat), especially as to time, frequently remaining at the wicket several hours. So great was his steadiness, that he is reported once to have received 170 balls from David Harris (the great bowler of that time), and only to have scored one run from them! He could, however, drive well on and off. Walker had a thorough knowledge of the game, being also a fox-headed and crafty player. About two years after he joined the Hambledon Club, he began the system of jerking, or the round-armed delivery. This, owing to its tremendous pace, was forbidden by a council of the Hambledon Club (the then law-givers), called on purpose. He then took to underhand lobs of the tedious slow school, which were very successful, though of course all those wickets he got by catches off his balls and stumpings are lost, owing to the imperfect way scores were kept in his day. Walker (like David Harris) used to practice in a barn in wet weather as well as in winter time. He was for four years gamekeeper to Mr. Windel, of [Pepper] Harrow in Surrey, who was a great patron of the game at that time. About 1794, he left his native place for Thursley, near Hindhead, where his father, brothers, and himself were all farmers, their land being near the Devil's Punch Bowl. About 1796, Walker's name is found for a few matches opposed to his native county, why, is now unknown. It is supposed that he at that time was engaged by the M.C.C. at Lord's. Latterly, however, he resided at Chiddingfold, in Surrey (following the occupation of a grocer), where he died. His widow was still alive and hearty at the same place in 1859, aged 84. A bat with which Walker used to play, is still (1860) in existence at Lord's, in the Pavilion. In stature he was tall and thin, being 6ft. 1in. in height, and weight about 13 stones. His tombstone in Chiddingfold churchyard has the following inscription:—
In Memory of
THOMAS WALKER,
Who died March 1, 1831.
Aged 68.
It may be added that this player was nicknamed 'Old Everlasting' by some of his fellow cricketers, owing to the very lengthened stay he generally made when batting. This fact was remembered by William Beldham, as far on as 186l.
John Wells's first recorded match was in 1787. The name of Wells indeed is found in 1783, but it is believed to have been his brother James, who occasionally played. If this is his first match, he was now 28 years of age, which is rather late in life for so good and successful a cricketer, and for one who afterwards played so long, to commence his career. He was one of the 'crack' players of England for several seasons and of the Hambledon Club when in its prime. His batting was good and effective, and to be depended on. His bowling was fast with a good delivery, being very successful. His fielding also was exceeding fine, and he was a dead shot at the wicket, being a noted single-wicket player; likewise was a short thick-set man, active and laborious, possessing an excellent knowledge of the game. When questions were mooted his opinion would often be appealed to. His character was plain, simple, and uncompromising, civil, and differential, yet no cringer. He always went by the name of honest John Wells. He married the sister of William Beldham, and was born at Wrecclesham near Farnham, always residing there, following the trade of a baker. To show that this cricketer as well as his famous brother-in-law are not yet forgot in their native village, it may be stated that a small public house exists (1861) at Wrecclesham bearing the following extraordinary sign, 'The Rendezvous of the Celebrated Cricketers Beldham and Wells.' His name will be found in a great match as far on as 1815, and his brother James also, who played occasionally. His son (?) George Wells participated in some of the great contests of the day from 1814 to 1821. It may be here also mentioned that Farnham, or rather 20 miles circuit of that town, produced at that time most of the famous cricketers of the day. Wells died at his native village, but is buried at Farnham and in the churchyard there his tombstone (along with that of his wife bears the following inscription):—
also
JOHN WELLS
Who died December 15, 1835
Age 76.
.jpg)
CRICKET AT LEWES IN SUSSEX
(From the frontispiece to Lambert's Instructions and Rules for Playing the Noble Game of Cricket, 1816)
Also of Thomas White,
Who died July 28, 1831.
Aged 91 years.
The earl of Winchelsea made some good scores in the best matches for several seasons; was a great supporter and admirer of the 'Noble Game' and especially of the Hambledon Club. The Hampshire Chronicle, of July 25, 1797, states that the Earl of Winchelsea has made an improvement in the game of cricket, by having four stumps instead of three, and the wickets two inches higher. The game is thus rendered shorter by easier bowling out. The improvement (?) however must have only been used in practice, as no record exists of a match with four stumps having ever come off except in that between the Gentlemen and the Players, July 3, 1837; the latter defended four stumps of monstrous size. The Earl was born at , November 4, 1752, and died at his house, 32, South Street, Park Lane, London, August 2, 1826, aged 73. He is buried in the family vault at Ravenstone, in Buckinghamshire, but no monument has been erected to his memory. He was educated at Eton.
William Yalden was a licensed victualler of Chertsey, and managed the famous Laleham-Burway ground situated close to the town, supplying refreshments during the great matches. He is mentioned in Nyren's book, as being a wicket-keeper opposed to the Hambledon Club, but no record (except in one instance) is found of his having stumped any one out. The same occurs with Tom Sueter of the Hambledon Club, and therefore it is believed that stumping out was first scored down as 'run out' or 'put out'. He left off cricket for one season because he thought his eyesight was failing, but the Earl of Tankerville saying to him 'Try again, Yalden', he resumed play with better success than before. He once when fielding, jumped over a fence, and when on his back still caught the ball!!! He was born at Chertsey (or according to another account at Ripley), in Surrey, in 1740, but died at Chertsey, January 1824, aged 84. Height 5ft. 10in. and weight 12st. 7lbs. No tombstone existed in 1858, to his memory. He had a son alive in 1859, at Chertsey, who curiously enough had then also attained the great age of 84 years.
Nyren speaks also of John Wood and May. Mr. Haygarth writes:—
There were two Mays, noted cricketers, whose names will be found a few times in these pages; but no doubt most of their best performances are lost. Owing to the initials being frequently omitted in the old scores, it is impossible to distinguish one from the other in every match.
Tom was for batting, Dick for bowling famed.
Of Thomas, nothing could be discovered; and of Richard, all that could be gleaned was, that he died in a drunken fit about 1796, aged about 46. 'His dying request to George Ring was, that he (Ring) would kill his favourite dog, and bury it with him. This was done in despite of the remonstrance of the officiating clergyman, on the score of sacrilege.' There were two cricketers of the name of Wood playing about this time in the great matches (no relation, but both opponents of the Hambledon Club). John Nyren in his book mentions but one, John Wood. John Wood resided at Seal, near Sevenoaks, in Kent; was a change bowler, and a good general player; tall, stout, and bony. The Seal register has no entry of his burial; the date of death, age, &c., therefore remains unknown. Thomas Wood, the other player, was a miller, residing at Pirbright, in Surrey. It is sometimes impossible to distinguish one from the other (as is the case with several other old cricketers), owing to the initials being often omitted in the old scores.
- ↑ It is there still, as Mr. New's picture opposite p. 184, from a photograph taken by Mr. C. B. Fry, testifies. E.V.L.
- ↑ I take from Oxford Memories the following:—'If Beldham, as I said, could master Brown at fifty-four, it is easy to believe what Fennex said—that Beldham was by far the best of his day, "hitting quick as lightning all round him, the very model of a batsman"; and it was said that Lord Frederick Beauclerk was formed after him. Beldham's was a green old age. Even when between sixty and seventy he was barred in county matches. When eighty-six years of age he was brought as an interesting relic of the old game into the pavilion at Lord's, much to the gratification of the few old gentlemen who remembered him.'—E.V.L.
- ↑ According to Debrett this son was succeeded by Charles Sackville Germain, a treat nephew, who became fifth Duke, and died in 1843 when his honours became extinct.
- ↑ Killarney in Debrett.
- ↑ I may add to this that from information I received from an old neighbour of mine, a cousin of Lambert's, I know him to have played in local matches after 1839. Lambert's name was put to a manual on the game published at Lewes in 1816, the frontispiece of which I reproduce opposite p. 216. It is a book without character, and was probably the work of the publisher or of some very dull journalist. E.V.L.
- ↑ It might be added to this that Sir Horace Mann was the nephew of the friend and correspondent of Horace Walpole.
- ↑ Concerning the early use of sawdust, Mr. Pycroft writes:—"Beldham, Robinson, and Lambert played Bennett, Fennex and Lord F. Beauclerk, a notable single-wicket match at Lord's, 27th June, 1806. Lord Frederick's last innings was winning the game, and no chance of getting him out. His Lordship had then lately introduced sawdust when the ground was wet. Beldham, unseen, took up a lump of wet dirt and sawdust, and stuck it on the ball, which, pitching favourably, made an extraordinary twist, and took the wicket. This I heard separately from Beldham, Bennett, and also Fennex, who used to mention it as among the wonders of his long life.'—E. V. L.