History of Chelmsford

Chelmsford, High Street 1892
Reproduced courtesy of The Francis Frith Collection.

History of Chelmsford >> Chelmsford Snippets

Chelmsford Snippets

When researching for this website we often find a little snippet of information on a location or subject which may be of interest. Here is one for Chelmsford.

Times March 10 1800.

Essex Assizes

Henry Hunsden, the boy of eleven years of age, who stole various Bank Notes out of the letters from the Post Office at Chelmsford, was yesterday convicted and received sentence of death; but [Judge] Baron Hotham, informed him that there was great reason to believe that he would receive the Royal Mercy.

The little convict fainted away, and was supported in the Gaoler’s arms while sentence was passing upon him.

Before Baron Hotham left the town he respited him until the first of May next, in order that due consideration may be had in what way mercy can be best extended to him, consistent with due administration of public justice.