Ellen King

Inquest, 7th July 1884

DESBOROUGH

—AN INQUEST was held at the George Inn, on Monday, before Mr. Parker (coroner), touching the death of Ellen King, daughter of Henry and Sarah King of New-street, Desborough, about 18 months old. The following gentlemen were sworn on the jury:—Messrs. William Baines (foreman), H. Blunsom, A. Baines, L. L. Turner, A. Osborne, J. Turner, J. Goode, J. Cursley, C. Page, G. Marlow, T. Coe, and C. Feakin. The evidence received was that the mother of the child had made a tin of tea for the purpose of her husband to take with him the next day. After the mother's back was turned, the child deliberately caught hold of the can, pouring the contents down its throat and bosom, and causing it such severe injuries, that it died from the effects the next morning. Dr Moore's assistant was called, and he found that the life of the child was hopeless. After the jury had been sitting for about an hour, they found that there was no fault attached to anyone, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

 Northampton Mercury, Saturday 12 July 1884

Note: Ellen was baptised on 5th July, probably as soon as it was realised how serious her injuries were. Henry and Sarah had another child the following year, naming her Ellen.