Floater's Mill

The Floater's Mill is a well-known Bournmoor landmark. It is a deceptively old building, dating back to at least the 17th century. As the name suggests, it started life as a mill, then became a farm. In October 1982 it became a public house, retaining its name to reflect its long history. The origins of its name are, unfortunately, lost in the mists of time though there is a tantalising historical reference to "Johnie Floater's Mill" - see below......

Relatively little detail is known of the history of Floater's Mill but what is known by the Webmaster is listed below. It appears as a mill on the earliest maps of the area - the oldest being from 1820 - but the building existed long before that - the oldest (so far) being from 1684 - see below.. However, there is an 1887 reference to the mill being "carried away" by a great flood - see below.

It is possible to follow the development of the mill and farm over the years to some extent using the old maps below. It is also possible to trace some of its former inhabitants and their connected stories by using sources such as contemporary newspaper reports, census returns and other official documents. The author would be very pleased to receive further information regarding Floater's Mill and can be contacted via the email address on the Home Page of this website.

Maps of Floater's Mill

Above: 1973, Floater's Mill Farm

On the above map, Floater's Mill Bridge and Floater's Mill Farm are clearly marked. The farm consists of several buildings and today's modern building is all that remains. The filter beds to the south east of the farm have gone, replaced by a pumping station. This still exists today in the form of a square, brick-built building.

Above: 1959, Floater's Mill Farm

The above map is very similar to that of 1973 but some of the buildings have not yet been built (to the south of the farmhouse, for example)

Above: 1940, Floater's Mill Farm

The above map is very similar to that of 1959 but the position and layout of some of the buildings are different.

Above: 1920, Floater's Mill Farm

The above map is very similar to that of 1940 apart from the position and layout of some of the buildings.

Above: 1896, Floater's Mill (Corn)

The map of 1896 shows Floater's Mill as being a mill - as opposed to a farm in later years. This implies that it ceased being a corn mill and became a farm some time between 1896 and 1920. That considered, some of the old census returns (see below) give the occupation of its main inhabitant as "miller and farmer" which suggests that the two activities ran concurrently.

A mill race is visible to the south east of the property, the water for which enters the race from the Lumley Park Burn. The race appears to flow under the farm and emerges to the north west where it flows back into the Lumley Park Burn just east of Floater's Mill Bridge. It is this mill race which would have chanelled the water sufficiently to turn a water wheel at the mill for grinding corn.

Above: 1874, Floater's Mill (corn)

Little has changed in the layout of the mill or the mill race between the above two maps. In 1874 there appear to be formal 'gardens' to the south of Floater's Mill, bordering the road.

Above: 1859, Floater's Mill. Map by Thomas Henry Malby.

Although this map is of a much larger scale, Floater's Mill was of sufficient importance or significance to be specifically marked on this map (centre).

Above: 1850, Floaters's Mill. Map by Christopher Greenwood.

The above map does not name Floater's Mill but it is marked by a mill wheel centre-right of map.

Above: 1843, Floater's Mill. Map by John Thomas William Bell.

Floater's Mill is clearly marked at the centre of the above map and this map is sufficiently detailed to show that the mill race was in place by this time.

Above: 1839, Floater's Mill. Map by William Colling Hobson.

Floater's Mill is marked at the centre of this map.

Above: 1820, Floater's Mill. Map by Christopher Greenwood.

The above map does not name Floater's Mill but it is marked as a mill wheel at the centre of the map. This is the earliest map found to date which shows a mill at this location.

Above: An old map with modern map overlaid showing the course of the Mill Race artificially coloured in blue - the watercourse used to turn the mill's wheel

Above: An old map with modern map overlaid showing where the Mill Race flowed under the mill and entered the Lumley Park Burn just to the east of Floater's Mill Bridge

Chronology:

1684: Durham University, Durham Probate Records: pre-1858 original wills and inventories (1681-1699), 1684: DPRI/1/1684/P13

Thomas Physick, yeoman, of Floaters Miln within the parish of Chester in the Street in the county of Durham [Chester-le-Street, County Durham]; also spelt Phisick

1705, February 16th: Durham University, Durham Probate Records: probate bonds 1676-1705 DPRI/3/1704/B274, 16 February 1705

Administration bond; Paule Burdon, butcher, of Floters Mill in the parish of Chester in the street

1768, May 8th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of James Shorton, son of Henry Shorton of Nigh Floater's Mill farmer and Ann his wife. (Note: could 'Shorton' be a corruption of the name 'Sherraton'? See elsewhere on this site - eg. John Sheraton was farmer at Dun Cow Farm for many years)

1776: ....."by February 1776, Ralph Lambton had granted way-leave from Floater's Mill to Bird's Nook for 20,000 chaldrons of coal a year to pass under the terms of a 21 year lease"

Source: Beastall T.W., A North Country Estate, 1975

1777, January 15th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Ann Mowbray, daughter of Michael, waggonman and wife Jane

1777, June 15th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Ann Mowbray, daughter of Michael Mowbray of Floter's Mill, waggonman and Jane his wife

1777: ....."Samuel Smeaton..... advised on the wagon way and suggested Memel or Riga wood for the bridge to carry it over the stream near Floater's Mill. Between May 1777 and February 1778 the area was transformed as the new works were completed."

Source: Beastall T.W., A North Country Estate, 1975

1778: Newcastle Chronicle 16 May 1778

Notice is hereby given that the parishioners of the parish of Houghton-le-Spring, in the County of Durham, to intend to ride and perambulate the boundaries thereof, on Thursday the 28th day of May inst. and on the succeeding day or days, till the same are finished; and for that purpose will meet at nine o’clock in the morning of the said 28th day of May in a certain lane leading from Fence Houses to Floter’s Mill and will proceed from thence by the north and west parts of the said boundaries.

1780, July 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Michael Mowbray, son of Michael Mowbray near Floater's Mill, farmer and Jane his wife

1782, July 28th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of George Mowbray, son of Michael Mowbray nigh Floater's Mill, farmer and Jane his wife

1783, October 29th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of Hannah Warton, wife of William Warton near Floater's Mill

1785, March 20th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Joseph Mowbray, son of Michael Mowbray of Floters Male (sic), farmer and Jane his wife

1787, October 21st: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Ralph Mowbray, son of Michael Mowbray of Floters Mill, farmer and Jane his wife

1798: Thomas Findley - News Article

"The Durham Agricultural Society, at their Spring meeting, lately held in the City of Durham, adjudged and paid the following rewards, viz. to Mr Tho. Davison, of Oxenlefield, near Darlington, five guineas, for the best stallion for harness horses; and five guineas to Mr Thomas Findley, of Floater's Mill, near Lumley, for the best stallion for hunters."

Source: Newcastle Courant, 14th April, 1798

1799, June 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Hannah Mowbray, born Nov 22 1798, 3rd daughter of John Mowbray of Floater's Mill, farmer native of Lambton by his wife Isabella Watson native of Corbridge, Northumberland

1801: ....."the Lambton enterprise sank a new pit on their land near Floater's Mill to connect with Lumley workings in the Hutton seam."

Source: Beastall T.W., A North Country Estate, 1975

1803, March 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of Mary Ann Donnison, died 29 Feb 1804, daughter of William Donnison, hind

1808, April 17th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Robert Donnison, Born 22 Mar 1808, 1st son of Robert Donnison of Floter's Mill, miller, native of Piddington, Hallgarth, by his wife Jane Hay, native of Lamesley

1809:.... "As the wet, difficult Fifth Pit gave up, Houghton Gate continued to produce well and the hole near Floater's Mill proved to be productive."

Source: Beastall T.W., A North Country Estate, 1975

1809, October 12th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of Hannah Snaith, died 10 Oct 1809, wife of Michael Snaith, butcher, 24 years, consumption

1818, February 8th: Penshaw All Saints Church. Burial of Mary Allan, 61 years

1818, June 25th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of Mary Finley, age 84

1818, Durham County Advertiser 25 July 1818

Deaths. At Floater’s Mill, near Chester-le-Street, lately, Mr Thomas Findley, aged 84, much respected.

1819: Floater's Mill Bridge is stated to be the work of Ignatius Bonomi (1787-1870), consisting of a 17ft span.

Source: A Biographical Dictionary of Civil Engineers in Great Britain and Ireland 1500-1830 Vol.1, edited by A.W. Skempton.

1819: Robert Donnison

Document Ref.: Add.MS. 791 19 May 1819

Assignment by Edward Shipperdson of Durham and others (trustees of Walter Carles Hopper) to Robert Donnison of Floater's Mill, Co. Durham, of an estate held by lease at Moor House, Houghton-le-Spring.

Parchment 2mm.

Source: Durham University Library Special Collections Catalogue.

1819: The Newcastle Courant etc. (Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England), Saturday, February 6, 1819; Issue 7426

Great and Little Lumley Association for Prosecuting Felons, etc.….

…. Wm. Donnison, Floter’s Mill Farm. Robt. Donnison, Floter’s Mill.

1822: John Buddle (Viewer and Colliery Manager to the Third Marquess of Londonderry from 1820 to 1843): letter written at the Colliery Office Pensher to Lord Londonderry dated 30th August, 1822:

"Croudace is going on with the bridge at Floater's Mill. He pressed hard for a money subscription of £50 but I stuck to a contribution of stones and labour. He fell to £25 cash. I stuck to the stones and after a pause of three weeks, he has taken the stones with good grace."

Source: Letters of John Buddle to Lord Londonderry, 1820-1843, Surtees Society, 2013

1822, January 1st: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of William Sanderson, illegitimate son of Mary Sanderson. This child was born at Floter's Mill

1823, October 8th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Thomas Finley Donnison, son of Robert Donnison, miller and Mary. (NOTE: Thomas Finley Donnison's name appears on the gravestone pictured below.....)

1825, March 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Mary Jane Donnison, daughter of Robert Donnison, miller and Mary.

1826, February 21st: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of John Snaith, 20 years

1826, October 22nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Thomas Hewitson, son of Fenwick Hewitson, banksman and Elizabeth.

1828: William Donnison, farmer, Floater's Mill

Source: William Parson & William White, History, Directory and Gazetteer of the Counties of Durham and Northumberland, 1828

1828, September 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of William Donnison, 68 years

Above: the gravestone of William Donnison (d. 1828) in the churchyard of Chester-le-Street Parish Church

1829, November 11th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of John Smith Donnison, son of Robert Donnison, miller and Mary

1831, November 2nd: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Baptism of Matthew Donnison, son of Robert Donnison, miller and Mary

1833: Robert Donnison - News Article

"Whereas late on Saturday night the 7th, or early on Sunday morning, the 8th of September 1833, some wicked and malicious person or persons, did wilfully and designedly, set on fire the stable and cow house at Moor House, belonging to Mr Robert Donnison, of Floater’s Mill. Notice is hereby given that whoever will give Information of the Offender or Offenders, shall be paid, upon conviction, a reward of one hundred Guineas, on application to the said Robert Donnison, by the unanimous agreement of Lumley, Pensher, West Rainton, Newbottle and Pittington Associations – Floater’s Mill, Oct. 5, 1833."

Source: The Newcastle Courant, Saturday, October 12, 1833; Issue 8281

1834: "The township contains….. A corn-mill at Flotters…."

Source: An Historical, Topographical, and Descriptive View of the County Palatine of Durham: Comprehending the Various Subjects of Natural, Civil, and Ecclesiastical Geography, Agriculture, Mines, Manufactures, Navigation, Trade, Commerce, Buildings, Antiquities, Curiosities, Public Institutions, Charities, Population, Customs, Biography, Local History, &c, Volume 1.

1834, September 26th: Chester-le-Street, St Mary & St. Cuthbert's Church. Burial of Hannah Donnison, 74 years

1837: William Storey

"Registered No.: 3041. Place of Abode: Floater's Mill. Nature of Qualification: Freehold House."

Source: The proceedings and poll at the election for two knights of the shire to represent in parliament the northern division of the county of Durham, as taken 7th and 8th August, 1837. Also, the speeches on the day of nomination and at the declaration of the poll

1839: "The Wynyard and Durham Fox Hounds will meet on Monday, March 25, at Floater’s Mill"

Source: The Newcastle Courant, Friday, March 22, 1839; Issue 8575

1839: Durham County Advertiser 25 October 1839

The Chase. The Wynyard and Durham Fox-Hounds will meet on Monday, Oct. 28th, at Woodwell House; Thursday, Oct. 31st at Floater’s Mill; and on Saturday, Nov. 2d, at Stoney Gate, each day at half-past ten o’clock.

1841: Census Return

Robert Donnison (50), Miller

Mary Donnison (40)

Thomas Donnison (15)

Mary Donnison (15)

Hannah Donnison (12)

John Donnison (10)

Matthew Donnison (7)

Richard Appleton (25), Ag. Lab.

Ann Robson (15), D.S.

Robert Hamilton (5)

1841: Newcastle Journal 23 October 1841

Sporting Intelligence.

The Chase.

The Wynyard Fox-Hounds meet on Monday the 25th October at Hallgarth; on Thursday the 28th, at Floater’s Mill; on Saturday the 31st, at Warden Law; on Tuesday the 2d November, at Hawthorn; and on Friday the 5th, at Stoney Gate – each day at half past ten.

1846:

Particulars of Payments: Bridges, Repairs of.

When Paid: May 3

To whom paid: Thomas Winter

Bridges: Floater's Mill

Nature of Work: Mason work

Amount Paid: £6 9s 10d.

Source: House of Commons papers, Volume 6, Part 2.

1845: Durham Chronicle 11 April 1845

….. County Bridges. Mr Bonomi next read the County Bridge Report. It was as follows – Floater’s Mill Bridge, near Chester-le-Street. The dwarf wall, recommended at the last Sessions to be built at the bottom of the embankment upon which the road of this bridge is raised, is in progress and will soon be finished.

1849: Robert Donnison - News Article

"Lost on the 26th of April, a black cocker dog, with three white feet and with muzzle, belonging to Mr Robert Donnison, Floater’s Mill. Whoever will bring the same to its owner will be handsomely rewarded; any person detaining him after this notice will be prosecuted."

Source: The Newcastle Courant, Friday, May 11, 1849; Issue 9101

1849, September 7th: Chester-le-Street, Penshaw All Saints Church. Burial of Thomas Harrison, 43 years

1850: Donnison - News Article

"Lost, between Chester-le-Street and Newcastle-on-Tyne on February 7, a black cocker dog, with white feet and breast. Whosoever will bring the same to Mr Donnison, Floater’s Mill, will be handsomely rewarded for their trouble and whoever detains him after this notice will be prosecuted."

Source: The Newcastle Courant, Friday, February 15, 1850; Issue 9141

1851: Census Return: Floater's Mill

Robert Donnison, Head, Married, 64, Miller, born Durham

Mary Donnison, Wife, Married, 55,

John Donnison, Son, Unmarried, 22, Miller, born Durham

Matthew Donnison, Son, Unmarried, 21, Miller, born Durham

Elizabeth Dunn, Servant, Unmarried, 18, General Servant, born Durham

Anthony Brown, Servant, Married, 35, Servant, born Durham

Robert Laws, Servant, Unmarried, 22, Servant, born Durham

1851: Durham County Advertiser 19 September 1851

Married. At Houghton-le-Spring church on Tuesday last, Robt., third son of Mr Donnison, of Floater’s Mill to Ann, only daughter of Mr Robt. Liddle, of the Red Lion Inn, Houghton-le-Spring.

1856: Matthew Donnison - News Article

"As Mr Matthew Donnison, Floater’s Mill, near New Lambton went to work with some shearers in an oat field a few days ago, he took his double-barrelled gun with him. He loaded both barrels and after the gun had been carried down the field, to be near him as the work progressed, he put it under a stook to keep it from a shower of rain. Some time afterwards, he very imprudently sent a boy named Henry Carr, about 12 years old, to bring the gun to him and as the boy was pulling it by the muzzle out of the stook, the left barrel fired and the contents were lodged in his bowels. He was removed home and died about twelve o’clock the same night. – Newcastle Journal"

Source: Liverpool Mercury etc (Liverpool, England), Saturday, October 4, 1856.

1856: "The township contains….. A corn-mill at Flotters…."

Source: History, Topography, and Directory of the County Palatine of Durham: Comprising a General Survey of the County, with Separate Historical, Statistical, and Descriptive Sketches of All the Towns, Boroughs, Ports, Parishes, Chapelries, Townships, Villages, Wards, and Manors. To which are Subjoined A History and Directory of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and a List of the Seats of the Nobility and Gentry.

1857: "The township contains….. A corn-mill at Flotters…."

Source: The History and Antiquities of the County Palatine of Durham: Comprising a Condensed Account of Its Natural, Civil, and Ecclesiastical History, from the Earliest Period to the Present Time; Its Boundaries, Ancient, Parishes, and Recently Formed Parochial Districts and Chapelries, and Parliamentary and Municipal Divisions; Its Agriculture, Mineral Products, Manufactures, Shipping, Docks, Railways, and General Commerce; Its Public Buildings, Churches, Chapels, Parochial Registers, Landed Gentry, Heraldic Visitations, Local Biography, Schools, Charities, Sanitary Reports, Population, &c.

1858: Durham County Advertiser 30 April 1858

Houghton-le-Spring petty sessions.

27th April, before Jos. Simpson and W.R. Robinson, Esqrs, and J.S. Nichol, clerk.

Neighbours’ Quarrels. Elizabeth Bone and Ann Bone, of Floater’s Mill, were charged by Matthew Donnison, of the same place, with depositing filthy matter on the highway on the 17th and 18th instant. They had thrown the filth on the highway in front of Mr Donnison’s house in order, as the latter alleged, to annoy him. On promising not to be guilty of the like conduct in the future, they were discharged on paying the costs.

1859: Durham County Advertiser 21 October 1859

Report of the County Bridge Surveyor.

The first report of Mr Crozier, the Bridge Surveyor, was next read as follows:

Gentlemen – since my appointment in June last, I have visited several of the county’s bridges and found them in good repair. I have, however, deferred my regular inspection till after the 15th of this month, the date mentioned in the contracts for having the stones deposited on the bridges. The following bridges have been repaired during the quarter, viz…… Floater’s Mill …..

1861: Census Return:

Matthew Donnison, Head, Married, 30, Miller and Farmer, born Durham Lumley Park

Elizabeth Donnison, Wife, Married, 29, Miller and Farmer's Wife, born Durham Lumley Park

Mary Donnison, Daughter, Unmarried, 2, Miller and Farmer's Child, born Durham Lumley Park

Robert Donnison, Son, Unmarried, 8 mo., Miller and Farmer's Child, born Durham Lumley Park

George Swalwell, Servant, Unmarried, 16, Miller, Durham ?

Mary Story, Servant, Unmarried, 17, House Servant, born Durham Painshaw

1861: Durham Chronicle 12 July 1861

Deaths. At Little Thorp, near Easington, 8th inst., aged 64 Mary, the devoted wife of Mr Donnison, late of Floater’s Mill.

1861: Durham Chronicle 11 October 1861

Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses.

Mr Arthur T. Crow has been instructed by Mr M. Donnison, who is declining farming, &c., to sell by auction, on Monday 21st October, 1861, at Floater’s Mill, within three minutes’ walk of Fence Houses Station, the whole of the valuable farming stock, implements of husbandry, farm produce and brewing utensils. Particulars in future advertisements and hand-bills.

Bishopwearmouth Sale and Appraising Offices, 53 Sans Street, 8th October, 1861.

1861:Durham Chronicle 18 October 1861

Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses.

Mr A.T. Crow has the honour of receiving a commission from Mr Matthew Donnison, to sell by auction, on Monday 21st Ocotber, 1861, at Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses, the valuable and extensive farming stock &c., upon the above farm, comprising:

Horses:

1. Grey horse, 8 years, 16 hands

2. Bay horse, 8 years, 16 hands

3. Bay horse, 4 years, 15¾ hands

4. Bay horse, 4 years, 16 hands

5. Bay horse, 5 years, 15¾ hands

6. Bay filly, 2 years, By Emperor.

7. Bay yearling filly by Minisford Lad.

Cows, &c.:

Four geld cows (in forward condition); two Shot Pigs.

The implements of husbandry enumerate Long Cart, New Coup Cart by “Mitcheson,” Rail Cart in good order, Water Barrel and Frame (new), Three Ploughs, Scuffler, Two Pairs of Four Bull Harrows, Pair of Three Bull Harrows, Pair of Potato Harrows, Large Wood Roller, Turnip Drill, Two Turnip Cutters, Two Oak Hecks, Two Long Ladders, Two Stone Troughs, a large quantity of Sacks, Pokes, Weights and Scales, Cow Chains, Shaft, Trace and Plough Gears for two Draughts, Stable and Dairy Utensils, a splendid collection of Fancy Poultry, Four Hives of Bees, Two Bee Houses, Garden Tools, &c.

The Farm Produce consists of 4½ acres of potatoes (which are free from disease), 5 wheat stacks, 8 oat stacks, 2 new land haystacks (10 and 12 tons) and 2½ acres of swede and white turnips. The hay, straw and turnip to be consumed upon the premises.

Also a quantity of brewery utensils and blacksmiths’ tools, consisting of brewing copper up to four half-barrels (with lead cooler attached), drying kilns with doors and bars, troughs, mash tub, 15 ankers, half-barrels and three-quarter hogsheads, pair of 36-inch bellows, vice, anvils, old and new iron and sundry tools.

Also a portion of the household furniture.

Sale to commence with the farming stock punctually at twelve o’clock.

Bishopwearmouth Sale and Appraising Offices

53 Sans Street, 12th October, 1861.

1861: "Deaths. At Easington, on the 7th inst., aged 76, Mr Robert Donnison, late of Floater’s Mill."

Source: The Newcastle Courant, Friday, December 13, 1861; Issue 9755

1863: Durham County Advertiser 16 January 1863

Deaths. At Floater’s Mill Farm, near Fence Houses, William Hall, aged 11 years.

1865: William Donnison

To be Let – And entered to at May-day next. The undermentioned FARMS in the Parish of Chester-le-Street:

Lumley White House Farm, consisting of 298 acres, more or less, of excellent arable and pasture land, 128 acres being rich old grass, as at present occupied by Mr John Selby Arthur.

Black Row and Woodstone House Farm, near Fence Houses Station, on the North Eastern Railway, consisting of 148 acres, or thereabouts, of excellent arable and pasture land, in the occupation of Mr Wm. Best.

Floaters Mill and Farm, situate within a quarter of a mile of the Fence Houses Station on the North Eastern Railway, consisting of a powerful water corn mill and 103 acres, or thereabouts, of good arable and pasture land, as at present occupied by Mr Wm. Donnison.

William Bagshaw, at Lumley Castle, will show the above farms to applicants; and conditions of letting and all other particulars will be given by James Rutherford, Pelaw, near Chester-le-Street.

Pelaw, Chester-le-Street, Nov. 1, 1865.

1868: Nicholas George Oliver

Source: Register of Voters for the Northern Division of the County of Durham 1868-9 and Poll Taken 24 November, 1868.

1866: Newcastle Journal 06 September 1866

Grand Bazaar at Lumley Castle.

In aid of the fund for liquidating the debt on Lumley Church. This bazaar will continue open today at eleven o’clock and tomorrow at two o’clock. There will be a ball at the close of the bazaar today, commencing at nine o’clock. Admission to the ball: Gentlemen, 1s 6d. Ladies, 1s.

Rev John Dodd, Lumley Parsonage, Secretary

John Crawford Esq., Lumley Park House, Secretary.

Mr Oliver, Floater’s Mill.....

1866: Newcastle Daily Chronicle 26 December 1866

Found at Floater’s Mill, near Fence Houses Station, on Tuesday, the 18th December, seven fat sheep. The owner can have them again by applying to N.G. Oliver, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses and paying expenses.

1867: Newcastle Daily Chronicle 05 November 1867

To be Let, the Cottage at Shincliffe, pleasantly situated close to Durham, containing four rooms and convenience, with large garden. Rent £14 per year. Apply to N.G. Oliver, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses.

1871: Census Return: Floater's Mill

Nicholas G. Oliver, Head, Married, 37, Miller and Farmer employing two labourers, born Pittington

Elizabeth Oliver, Wife, Married, 37, born Cornforth

Ida Oliver, Daughter,Unmarried, 5, born Gilesgate

Alexander Pringle, Servant, Unmarried, 15, Cartman, born Scotland

Margaret Mason, Servant, Unmarried, 18, born Cumberland Carlisle.

1871: Newcastle Guardian and Tyne Mercury 23 December 1871

Deaths. At Floater’s Mill, on the 16th inst., aged 36, Mr Nicholas Oliver, farmer.

1873: News Article

"Suspicious discovery at Lumley. On Friday, while William Taylor, hind to Mr John Crawford of Lumley Park Farm, was proceeding through the fields, near the above village, he found at the spot known as Brough’s Gill, at the river side, a petticoat and pair of white cotton stockings, stained with blood. Information was given to Police Constable Walton, who is stationed at Lumley; and upon further search being made by the above officer, he found several articles of clothing near to Floater’s Mill, amongst which were a woman’s chemise, &c, in the same bloody condition. The affair is being investigated."

Source: Northern Echo (Darlington, England), Monday, January 13, 1873; Issue 943

1879: Shetland Times 26 April 1879

….. The weather is still cold and anything but Springlike…..

….. I see too, from the newspapers, that the swallows have at length crossed the Channel. They were seen in Paris ten days ago and now they have made their welcome appearance at Floater’s Mill, near Fence Houses.

1881: Census Return: Floater's Mill

David Tindale, Head, Married, 38, Miller and Farmer, born Durham Fishburn

Margaret Tindale, Wife, Married, 40, born Coxgreen

William Todd Tindale, Son, Unmarried, 18, General Workman, born Washington

John George Tindale, Son, Unmarried, 12, Scholar, born Coxgreen

Joseph Archbold Tindale, Son, Unmarried, 10, Scholar, born Pensher

David Tindale, Son, Unmarried, 7, Scholar, born Newbottle

Frederick Robert Tindale, Son, Unmarried, 4, Scholar, born Floater's Mill

Mary Jane Tindale, Daughter, Unmarried, 5 mo., born Floater's Mill

Laura Garbutt, Servant, 16, General Domestic Servant, born Yorkshire Scarborough

1882: Durham County Advertiser 03 November 1882

Death From Drowning at New Lambton.

A strange dream. The body of a boy named Joseph Woods, aged ten years, the son of a workman at Lambton Colliery, was recovered on Monday morning from a brook which flows past that place, having been in the water since Friday last. Deceased had accidentally fallen into the stream and was drowned, notwithstanding efforts made to save him, nor could the body be found. On Monday morning, a young man named Thomas Ovington joined the searching party and he informed P.C. Acon that during the previous night he had dreamed that the body was in a hole at the old bathing place below the dam at Floater’s Mill. Thither the party proceeded and the body was recovered.

1883: York Herald 28 November 1883

Deaths. Tindale – November 25th, at Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses, aged eight years, Frederick Robert, youngest son of David Tindale.

1884: Durham County Advertiser 16 May 1884

Woodstone House and Floaters’ Mill, Fence Houses (Under distress for rent).

Mr Shadforth will sell by auction on Monday, May 19th, 1884, the value of the farming stock and household furniture belonging to the late John Tindale and sons, consisting of 4 milch cows, several young beast, 1 pig, 2 coup carts, 1 long cart, 3 draught horses, thrashing machine, chaff cutter, roller, clod crusher, grubb and other harrows, ploughs, corn drill, turnip do., 2 lead milk bowls and the household furniture. Sale at twelve o’clock. Durham, May 14th, 1884.

1884: Durham County Advertiser 15 August 1884

Woodstone House, Black Row and Floater’s Mill Farms.

Mr A.T. Crow has received instructions from the executors of the late Mr John Tindale to sell by auction, on Monday, August 25th, 1884, the away-going crop consisting of 25 acres splendid white wheat, 26 acres tartar oats and 20 acres barley. Credit on approved security or a discount allowed for cash. The sale to commence at 3 for 4 o’clock punctually. Sunderland, 12th August, 1884.

1884: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 22 August 1884

Local case in the High Court.

Yesterday, in the High Court of Justice (Chancery Division), before Mr Justice Wills, Mr Rawlings Q.C. (instructed by Mr A.T. Crow jun, of Sunderland), made an application on behalf of George Tindall and William Tindall, of Houghton-le-Spring, against John Tindall and David Tindall, of Woodstone, Fence Houses, farmers, to restrain the two last-mentioned persons, and Mr Shadforth, auctioneer, Durham, from selling the away-going crops of corn at Woodstone House and Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses. Wm. Tindall and George Tindall are the executors under the will of the late John Tindall, of Woodstone House, farmer, whose estate consisted of away-going crops, farming stock, &c. John Tindall and David Tindall instructed Mr Shadforth to sell, but as they were entitled to no interest under the will, the trustees instructed Mr A.T. Crow, of Sunderland, to sell. The judge granted the injunction restraining Mr Shadforth from selling and directed that Mr A.T. Crow should sell the away-going crops and estate and account to the trustees. John and David Tindall were also restrained from further interference.

1885 Electoral Roll: David Tindale

1886: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 27 April 1886

A horse belonging to Mr David Tindall, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses, was reported a week ago to be suffering from glanders and yesterday, another horse belonging to the same gentleman became afflicted.

1886: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 30 April 1886

Two horses, belonging to Mr William Tindale, Floater’s Mill, Ferryhill (sic), were successively attacked about a week ago with glanders, and have died.

1887: "Floater's flood" is the local name of a great flood which carried away Floater's Mill, near Houghton.

Source: The Monthly Chronicle of North Country Lore and Legend, Vol. 1.

1887: Shields Daily News 12 January 1887

Accident to Emigrant’s House at Fence Houses.

Yesterday morning, about half-past eight, as some emigrants were coming from Lumley to Fence Houses Station, to take train for Liverpool, en route for America, they suffered a serious mishap, which was fortunately unattended with either loss of life or broken limbs, but both of which contingencies seem to have been avoided in the most miraculous manner. As the emigrants, with their luggage, seated on a rolley, were nearing Floater’s Mill, which is on a descent, the driver, John Edward Kell, moderated the speed and applied the brake but on making the turn, owing to the dangerous state of the road, the waggon skeated for 15 yards and then completely overturned, quite upsetting the party, with their luggage, but fortunately without doing any damage beyond that of the rolley about £5. The occupants, beyond a severe shaking, were in no way injured and this is all the more surprising as there was a helpless invalid amongst the party. The party left Fence Houses Station at nine o’clock, apparently little worse for their mishap.

1887 Electoral Roll: David Tindale

1887: Durham County Advertiser 25 November 1887

To Be Let.

Floater’s Mill and Farm, a few minutes’ walk from Fence Houses Station. The mill is worked by water power and the farm consists of 68 acres of good land, about 38 acres are in tillage and the remainder in fine old pastures, from three to five acres each and being in a populous district it is well adapted for a dairy farm. To an energetic man it presents a rare opportunity for doing a good business. Apply to J. Hall, Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street.

1888 Electoral Roll: David Tindale

1890 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1891 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1891: Census Return: Floater's Mill

Thomas Brown, Head, Married, 42, Farmer and Miller, born Durham Gateshead Fell

Elizabeth A. Brown, Wife, Married, 43, born Durham Pensher

Benjamin Brown, Son, Single, 21, Farm Labourer, born Durham Burnmoor

Margaret A. Brown, Daughter, Single, 20, born Durham Pensher

Thomas Brown, Son, Single, 18, Farm Labourer, born Durham Pensher

Alfred Brown, Son, Single, 9, Scholar, born Durham Birtley

Daniel W. Hall, Brother-in-law, Single, 36, Farmer, born Durham Pensher

Frances Pearson, Servant, Single, 16, General Servant (Domestic), born Durham Esh

1892 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1893 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1893: News Article

Bishopric Rhymes.

The following are amongst the many rhymes relating to certain places in the County of Durham, and are recorded by Denham. The first does not appear to convey any special intelligence:-

Seaton Sluice / And Hartlepool Mill / The one goes round / The other stands still

The next refers to an enclosed wayside spring of water of excellent quality near Stainton, Barnard Castle:-

The water of Hezzle Well / Will make tea by itself

The third refers to four places in the parish of Chester-le-Street and one in that of Washington:-

Picktree and Pelaw / And Pickelton on the hill / Lambton and Biddick / And Johnie Floater’s Mill

Source: The Newcastle Weekly Courant, Saturday, February 11, 1893; Issue 11378.

1894 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1896 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1897 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1898 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1899 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1899: Durham County Advertiser 24 March 1899

Chester-le-Street Highway Authority.

The usual meeting of this committee of the Rural District Council was held on Thursday sen., Mr Peter Oswald, chairman, presiding…..

….. Bridges. The Surveyor suggested that as the County Council had ordered the committee to take over the New Bridge at Chester-le-Street and Floter’s Mill Bridge, the two other county bridges at Chester-le-Street and Lamesley be added to the list. Mr Renwick again drew attention to the unsatisfactory state of the New Bridge Bank. He urged the committee to take some steps for the improvement of the bank. The chairman said if the County Authority and Lords Durham and Scarborough could be prevailed upon to reconstruct the New Bridge it would settle the matter. No half-way means would meet the requirements. The Clerk was instructed to write the Council again.....

1900 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1901 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1901 Census Return: Floater's Mill

Thomas Brown, Head, Married, 52, Farmer, Employer, born Durham Low Fell

Elizabeth A. Brown, Wife, Married, 53, born Durham Burnmoor

Thomas Brown, Son, Married, 28, Farmer's Assistant, Worker, born Durham Pensher

Alfred Brown, Son, Single, 19, Farmer's Assistant, Worker, born Durham Birtley

Mary J. Brown, Daughter-in-law, Married, 30, born Durham Kelloe

Daniel W. Hall, Brother-in-law, Single, 44, Farmer's Assistant, Worker, born Durham Burnmoor

Margaret Frost, Servant, Single, 22, General Servant, Worker, born Durham Spennymoor

Bessie Brown, Grandaughter, Single, 3, born Durham Lumley

1902 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1902: Thomas Brown, Farmer, Floater's Mill

Source: Kelly's Directory of Durham

1902: News Article

"Assaulting the police at Lumley.

John Tomlinson was charged with being drunk and disorderly and with assaulting P.C. Johnson at Lumley on the 5th inst. – The officer named deposed to finding the prisoner lying on the ground near Floater’s Mill, Brecon Hill, very drunk. If he had moved a foot and a half, he would have fallen 50ft. Witness tried to get him home but the defendant became very violent and kicked and struck him. P.C. Hugill gave evidence in support. Defendant pleaded not guilty. He admitted that he had too much drink but said he was treated disgracefully. He was fined the costs of the court for being drunk and 10s and costs for the assault.

Source: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette, 16th May 1902

1903: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 13 March 1903

Deaths. Donnison. At No. 1, Devonshire Street, on the 12th inst., aged 77 years, Mary, widow of the late Wm. Donnison, formerly of Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses. Cortege leaves residence at 2 o’clock on Monday 16th inst.

1903 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1904 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1905 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1906 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1907 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1908 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1909 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1909: Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser 06 April 1909

Locomotive Driver Summoned.—Robert Robertson was charged by P.C. Horn with allowing a locomotive road engine to stand on a bridge at Floater's Mill, Fence Houses on the 29th August, and fined 10s and costs.

1910 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1911 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1911: Mentioned as "Old Mill" in book

Source: George Parkinson, True Stories of Durham Pit Life, page 6

1911 Census Return: Floater's Mill

Thomas Brown, Head, 62, Married, Farmer, Employer, born Co. Durham Low Fell

Elizabeth A. Brown, Wife, 62, Married, born Co. Durham New Lambton

Alfred Brown, Son, 29, Married, Assisting on Farm, Worker, born Co. Durham Birtley

Elizabeth A. Brown, Daughter-in-law, 28, Married, born Co. Durham Pelton

Thomas Wm. Brown, Grandson, 4, born Co. Durham Little Lumley

Arthur Brown, Grandson, 2, born Co. Durham Little Lumley

Isabella Watson, Servant, 32, Single, Domestic Servant, Worker, born Co. Durham Chester Moor

James Cain, Servant, 40, Single, Farm Labourer, Worker, born Newcastle Northumberland

1912 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1913 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1913: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 17 February 1913

Wanted – a good general; must be able to milk. Apply, with references, to Brown, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses.

1914 Electoral Roll: Thomas Brown

1914: News Article

"Brown – at Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses, on the inst. aged 65 years, Thomas, beloved husband of Elizabeth Eleanor Brown. Interment at Burnmoor Churchyard on Wednesday."

Source: Newcastle Journal, May 18, 1914

1915 Electoral Roll: Alfred Brown

1916: Chester-le-Street Chronicle and District Advertiser, June 2, 1916

Rural Tribunal.

Ralph Wylam, 34, Chester Lodge on the Lambton Estate, married, a woodman, was appealed for by Mr Bond on behalf of the Earl of Durham. Mr Bond stated that he had other three men. All of whom were over military age. All the men of military age had gone but this one. They were proposing to cut and sell a quantity of timber for commercial purposes. Exempted until December 31st.

Alfred Brown, 34, farmer and contractor, married, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses appealed on his own behalf. He had 50 acres of land of which 37 was tillage. He employed his brother who was 44 years of age. He did a lot of carting work for which he employed two or three men. His brother looked after the eight cows. Appeal failed.

Arthur Tindale, 29,married, butcher, Gill Crescent, Fence Houses, appealed for exemption on business grounds. Postponed until end of July

1916: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 17 November 1916

Strong girl wanted for farm; must be able to milk. Apply Mrs Brown, Floater’s Mill, Fence Houses.

1918 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1919 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1920 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1921 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1922 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1923 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1924 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1925 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1926 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1927 Electoral Roll: Elizabeth Brown / Alfred Brown / Elizabeth Ann Brown

1928 Electoral Roll: Thomas Langton / Annie Langton / Thomas Langton junr / Alfred Allen

1929 Electoral Roll: Thomas Langton / Annie Langton / Thomas Langton junr

1930 Electoral Roll: Thomas Langton / Annie Langton / Thomas Langton junr / Alfred Allen / Thomas Harland / Violet Flintoff

1931 Electoral Roll: Thomas Langton / Annie Langton / Thomas Langton junr / Alfred Allen / Thomas Harland

1931: Durham Chronicle, 28 August 1931

Fence Houses.

Boy Injured by Bus Accident.

On Saturday morning, a Northern bus driven by F. Pedley, of Chester-le-Street, was on its way to Consett from Sunderland and when at Floater’s Mill Bridge, Primrose Hill, near Fence Houses, a boy named James Powney of 14 John Street, Bank Head, suddenly darted across the road in front of the bus. The driver steered to the right to try and evade the boy but the mudguard caught him and knocked him down. The bus pulled up within its own length. The boy was taken to Dr. J.R. Hall’s surgery and it was found he was suffering from a lacerated wound in the head, which had to be stitched. He was also suffering from other injuries and was consequently taken to the Children’s Hospital, Sunderland. P.C. Nairn was soon on the scene. An eye witness named Mr J. Bates, a miner, was sitting on the bridge and saw Powney and other three boys throwing pieces of stick into the water at one side of the bridge and then running to the other side to see them coming through the bridge. Powney was caught by the bus as he was doing this.

1933: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 07 August 1933

Lumley Sixth Pit Level Crossing.

In consequence of repair works to the Lambton, Hetton and Joicey Collieries Company’s level crossing at Lumley Sixth Pit, the road between Floater’s Mill farm and Finchale Terrace, Lumley, will be closed to through traffic on Monday, 14th August and Tuesday 15th August, 1933. Alternative route from Floater’s Mill Farm to Finchale Terrace via north end of Gill Crescent.

William J. Merrett, County Engineer and Surveyor.

County Surveyor’s Office, Durham, 5th August, 1933

1934: Thomas Langton - News Article.

The late Mr G. Bowmer.

The funeral of the late Mr George Bowmer, aged 70, late of Oxclose Farm, Washington, who died at the residence of his niece, Mrs K. Dryden, at Woodstone House Farm, Fence Houses, took place at Burnmoor on Saturday. The Rector of Burnmoor, the Rev A.J. Gadd, conducted the service. The chief mourners were: Mr H. Bowmer and Mr J. Bowmer, brothes; and Mesdames K. Dryden, Routledge, Thompson, T. Eltringham, Russell, Mackie, A. Eltringham, the Misses I. Bowmer, K. Dryden, Snaith and Messrs G. Eltringham, G. Bowmer, R. Eltringham, H. Dryden, A. Eltringham, G. Walker, E. Dryden, T,. Routledge, H. Eltringham, J. Littlefair and R. Eltringham – all nieces and nephews. Others present Messrs Henderson sen. and jun., Lumley Farm; Mr T. Langton, Floaters Mill Farm; Mr R. Dick (the Earl of Scarborough’s Agent); Mr R. Wilson, Black House; and Messrs H. Wilson, J. Forster, J. Doughty, M. Sweeney and M. Armstrong.

Source: Chester-le-Street District Chronicle, March 24, 1934

1934: News Article

"At St. Barnabas Church, Burnmoor, on Saturday, Miss Dorothy Brown, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs T.F. Brown, of Fence Houses, and late of Floater’s Mill Farm, Fence Houses, was married to Mr Robert William Mill, second son of Mr and Mrs D.R. Mill, of New Lambton"

Source: Chester-le-Street Chronicle, October 6, 1934

1938: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 26 September 1938

Cars In Collision at Road Junction.

Fence Houses Doctor Hurt.

Occupants of Other Vehicle Uninjured. Two motor cars were involved in a collision at the Floater’s Mill Farm at the junction of the roads leading to Fence Houses and Lumley Sixth Pit yesterday afternoon. One was driven by Dr. H. Russell, of Gill Crescent, Fence Houses and the other by Miss Dorothy Atkinson, of Deaf Hill Terrace, Trimdon, who was accompanied by her father and mother. After the collision, Dr. Russell’s car struck a telegraph pole. Dr. Russell was taken to his home in Miss Atkinson’s car. He was suffering from severe bruises and was badly shaken. Miss Atkinson and her parents escaped injury.

1941: Thomas Langton - News Article

"Farmer’s Death – The interment of Mr Arthur Smith (53), farming and carting contractor, of Stot’s Pasture Farm, Junction Row, Fence Houses, took place at Burnmoor… Chief mourners…… Mr T. Langton, Floater’s Mill Farm."

Source: Durham Chronicle, July 18, 1941

1942: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 14 March 1942

Burnmoor Cricket Club raised two guineas by a whist drive and dance for the local Warship Fund and Mrs T. Langton, Floater’s Mill Farm, made a cushion which was won by Mr W. Harrison, Fence Houses, and realised £8 10s.

1945: Thomas Langton / "Langton, Thomas, Floater's Mill Farm, Fence Houses, Co. Durham"

Source: Coates' Herd Book, Volume 91

1946: Thomas Langton - News Article

Burnmoor Wedding.

Wedding took place at St Barnabas’s Church, Burnmoor, today, the Rector, the Rev A.J. Gadd, officiating, of Miss Miriam Langton, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Tom Langton, Floaters Mill Farm, Fence Houses and Mr William Arthur Oliver, only son of Mr and Mrs A.B. Oliver, of Finchale Terrace Woodstone Village. The bride has been for 8½ years in the Civil Sevice at the R.O.F. Birtley. The bridegroom, whose father is an official at Lumley Sixth Pit, has recently been demobbed. On the clerical staff of the Lambton, Hetton and Joicey Collieries, he is an amateur centre forward for Gateshead Reserves. He was attended as best man by a fellow P.O.W., Mr John Cowie. The groomsmen were Messrs Edward Dawson and Lancelot Lee. A reception was held in Lumley Sixth Pit Welfare Hall and afterwards the couple left for Llandudno.

Source: Sunderland Echo, March 23, 1946

1946: Thomas Langton - News Article

Mr W.A. Oliver – Miss M. Langton. Wedding was solmenised at St Barnabas’ Church, Burnmoor, on Saturday, the Rector, Rev A.J. Gadd officiating, of Miss Miriam Langton, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Tom Langton, Floaters Mill Farm, Fence Houses and Mr William A. Oliver, only son of Mr and Mrs A.B. Oliver, Finchale Terrace, Woodstone Village. The bride has been for 8½ years at the R.O.F., Birtley; she was dressed in white figured velvet. Bridesmaids were in sky blue crepe-de-chine, viz. Misses Joyce I. Stephenson, Helena F. Dawson (cousin), Jean Buck (cousin of bridegroom) and small attendant was Margaret E. Butler. Bridegroom, whose father is an official at Lumley Sixth Pit, has recently been “demobbed” after serving in the Tyneside Scottish. He was for five years a p.o.w. in Germany. He is on the clerical staff of Lambton, Hetton and Joicey Collieries Ltd. He is an amateur with Gateshead Res. (centre forward). Best man was a fellow p.o.w. (Mr John Cowie), the groomsmen being Mr Edward Dawson (cousin of bride) and Mr Lancelot Lee (cousin). Reception was in Lumley Sixth Pit Welfare Hall and afterwards the couple left for Llandudno.

Source: Durham Chronicle, March 29, 1946.

1947: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 27 October 1947

Births. Oliver – At Floater’s Mill Farm, Fence Houses, Oct. 23 to Mr and Mrs W.A. Oliver (formerly Miriam Langton), a son (Kenneth). Both well.

1951: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 17 February 1951

Lumley Beck to be cleaned.

Mr M. Elliott presided at a meeting of Little Lumley Parish Council when members were informed that the N.C.B. had accepted liability to clean the beck at the east side of Fence Houses road. In reply to a request from Burnmoor Parish Council it was agreed to light the roadway from Floater’s Mill Farm to the railway crossing and the clerk was instructed to ascertain the cost. To a Ministry of Fuel request for economy street lighting will be extinguished at 3 a.m. Mr J. Brown stated that efforts to have a public convenience built at Gill Crescent had been successful. Precepts for lighting of £200 (an increase of £30) and £100 (decrease of £45) general expenses fund were agreed to.

1951: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 13 April 1951

Births. Oliver – At Floater’s Mill Farm, Fence Houses, April 11, to Mr and Mrs W.A. Oliver (nee Langton), a daughter. Both well. Grateful thanks to nurse.

1951: Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 20 July 1951

Dene Damage: Council Warns.

After hearing reports of further damage in Brecon Hill Dene, Little Lumley Parish Council decided last night to have warning notices erected. The N.C.B. is to be asked to supply stone for repairs to the footpaths in the dene. A deputation is to interview Mr T. Langton, farmer, of Floater’s Mill, with a view to his sharing the cost of fencing the entrance to Brecon Hill Dene. The North East Electricity Board has informed the council that the lighting of the houses at Houghton Gate will be completed shortly; the Board also suggested a lighting scheme at the crossroads at this point but the council is to carry out a scheme of its own. A request is to be made to the Chester-le-Street R.D.C. for the erection of an aged people’s shelter at a position to be selected by the Council’s architect.