Arson and assault vs social ambition Introduction Victorian Bournemouth (120) marks the second of several articles analysing a riot which happened on Windham Road, Springbourne, in 1878. Arthur Adams, a Springbourne tailor, had given evidence in court leading to the conviction of local criminals. In revenge, that day, they came to burn his house and […]
Introduction Crime and punishment in early Victorian Bournemouth featured in the resort’s press coverage. The early settlement lay within the jurisdiction of Christchurch’s Petty Sessions. Felonies ranged from petty theft to arson, the latter causing much concern to local landholders. Magistrates consisted of local prominent men, for the most part landowners, but also a sprinkling […]