Victorian Bournemouth (205) examines how Joseph Cutler used a public dinner given in his favour as a platform for furthering his political career. A divisive civic figure, Cutler had his eye on the first borough elections, his dream the mayor’s regalia. The dinner eschewed politics for bolstering his public image. The resort’s power brokers declined their invitations. A splendid occasion failed in its apparent purpose, for, at next year’s elections, voters did not favour Joseph Cutler .
In the 1880s, cabmen in Bournemouth united against the Improvement Commissioners to safeguard their livelihoods amid growing tensions. They formed a union, facilitated social gatherings, and established a Slate Fund for mutual benefit. Their collective actions spurred political engagement, ultimately compelling the local authority to reconsider stringent regulations on cab practices.
Victorian Bournemouth (163) explores a short-lived satirical column which appeared in the resort’s local press during the 1880s.
Success. Disaster. Success. Introduction Victorian Bournemouth (69) studies the career of Corporal Candy, publican at Victorian Bournemouth and member of its Volunteer Rifles. Although born into a poor rural working family, at his daughter’s wedding he had become a gentleman. Charles Candy’s career illustrates how, during the Victorian period, hard work, resourcefulness and luck could […]