The BLUE BELL 1836

Anna Maria Stearman, living at the Bell, accused 21 year old Samuel Gall, a member of the local police, of raping her on 23rd May 1841.
Before the Learned Judge it was heard that when originally accused, Gall had confessed to a witness of his actions and had given the girl a five shilling piece and promised another crown within a fortnight.
Although a certificate of baptism was produced, the court could not establish if her name was Anna Maria or Ann Maria and this was deemed to be a fatal flaw in the case.
Samuel Gall was thus acquitted.


In March 1844 Martha Lake, daughter of John Lake said that she had lived with `Old ' William Starling at Frog Hall some seven years previously. Upon leaving there, she came to the BELL to run it with her father. Old Mr. Starling had been forced out of Frog Hall by his son-in-law, Mr. Hillen and went to live with his son, William Starling, at Wiveton.
There was a dispute into the two wills that Old Mr. Starling had left, with Mr. Hilling disputing that all of the deceased assets, including Frog Hall, should be left to Young Mr. Starling.
Old Starling had often been to the BELL for tobacco and beer and sometimes three-penny worth of gin and water. Several witnesses said that though almost blind, he was competent and no inconsistency or imbecility had been observed. He was considered a clever old man in business. His age at death was 81 or 82.
Mr. Hillen lost the case.

For Sale by Auction Wednesday 11th October 1871 - Freehold. One of thirteen licensed house to be sold.

Not found after 1872.

Given as Bell Cottage 1881 - no longer licensed premises

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