4 May 1899 – George Ponting

We’ve used Artificial Intelligence to amplify whispers of the past into incredibly life-like voices. We think it’s the most interesting way to explore the articles on this site. Play the video to listen.

I prefer reading. Take me to the article

Read the article

From the Devizes and Wiltshire Advertiser on Thursday the 4th of May 1899

An accident (the first) occurred on the new line now in progress between Patchway and Wootton Bassett, at a place called Townleaze, Hullavington, about four miles from Malmesbury, to a lad named George Ponting, aged 13, in the employ of Messrs. Pearson, the contractors.

He was knocked down and run over by an empty tip wagon on Friday afternoon last, both arms being broken and his chest crushed. The lad was taken to the Malmesbury Cottage Hospital, where he expired. On Monday afternoon an inquest was held at the Green Dragon Inn before Mr. Nicholson-Browne, and a verdict of accidental death was returned.

The image depicts the building that was formerly the Green Dragon near to Malmesbury's Market Cross. The focal point is a traditional stone building with a steep, slanted roof covered in weathered tiles. The building features small, leaded glass windows typical of older architecture. There is a sign above the door that indicates it is currently called the Rajah. Several modern cars are parked in front of the building on a cobblestone or paved area, providing a contrast between the old and new. In the background, there are other historic buildings, and a few people are sitting outside a cafe or pub, enjoying the day under a clear, blue sky.
Formerly the Green Dragon, near Malmesbury’s Market Cross, on Friday the 16th of August 2024.

More from Inked in Time

Malmesbury Cottage Hospital (1897 – 1925)

"The Whole Hog," a bar and restaurant in Malmesbury. Interestingly, this building has a historical significance, as it served as Malmesbury Cottage Hospital from late 1897 until the end of 1926. The building retains its traditional architectural charm, with steeply pitched roofs and whitewashed walls, characteristic of the local style. The exterior now includes signage for the restaurant and an outdoor seating area, reflecting its modern-day function as a dining establishment.

🚧James Barnard’s Silversmiths Shop🚧

A sunny view of a bustling street in Malmesbury featuring traditional multi-story buildings. The Cherry Tree shop, with a sign prominently displayed, is located at 1 High Street. Pedestrians and a couple with a dog are walking along the pavement, passing various shops, including Lally's Tea Rooms.

More from this section

1898 – Ellen Cousins murdered her husband Arthur then committed suicide.

A view of the side of The Whole Hog in Malmesbury. The image features large windows with painted murals on them, depicting pigs and a man feeding them from a container labeled "Dreams." The artwork is vibrant and adds a creative touch to the building's stone facade. In the background, the historic Malmesbury Market Cross is visible, adding a sense of place and history to the scene. The area is paved, with a picnic bench outside and a couple of cars parked nearby. The overall atmosphere is quaint and lively, reflecting the town's blend of tradition and modern artistic expression.

1917 – 2nd Lieut. C. B. Fenton and 2nd Lieut. P. F. Parsons were involved in a plane crash at Charlton Park.

a Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2, a British single-engine biplane used during World War I. The aircraft has a distinctive design featuring two open cockpits arranged in tandem, one behind the other, with the pilot typically sitting in the rear seat and the observer or instructor in the front. The plane has a fabric-covered frame with a prominent upper and lower wing structure, connected by multiple struts and wires, characteristic of early biplane designs. The engine is mounted at the front, driving a two-blade wooden propeller. The aircraft bears British military markings on its tail, with the Union Jack visible. The overall design reflects the rudimentary and exposed nature of early military aviation.

1901 – A seven year old girl was shot whilst playing

1916 – Phyllis Edwards drowned in the Avon whilst her father was held prisoner of war in Germany

37 Horsefair, which is located at the edge of Horsefair near the entrance to Foundry Road in Malmesbury. The stone cottages lining the narrow street showcase traditional Cotswold architecture, with their rustic stone facades and charming details like small front gardens and hanging flower baskets. The road sign for Foundry Road is visible, adding to the quaint, picturesque feel of the area.

1920 – William Jones from Foundry Road died after ignoring the doctor’s advice

A view of Ratcliffe and Son on Foundry Road in Malmesbury. The building is an old, weathered brick structure with large arched windows and a slate roof, indicative of its industrial past. The main entrance is marked by a sign that reads "Ratcliffe & Son" above a small porch. The building has an aged, rustic appearance, with some areas showing signs of wear. A metal gate surrounds the entrance, and various tools and materials are visible inside the open area.