Shocking Carriage Accident at Rothwell

25th March 1894

A shadow has been cast over the Easter festival at Rothwell by the death, the result of a carriage accident, of Miss Florence Brown, daughter of Mr. A. Brown, confectioner, &c., of Rothwell. It appears that on Sunday afternoon Miss Maud Tailby and Miss Nellie Kilborn, of Desborough, accompanied by Miss Georgina Brown and the deceased lady, all of Rothwell, went out for a drive in a little four-wheeled pony carriage. All went well until they had descended the steep Windmill Hill, from Kettering to Rothwell, and about a quarter of a mile from the latter place. When the foot of the hill was reached Miss Tailby, who was driving, touched the pony with a whip, and the animal suddenly plunged forward, thus causing the front portion of the carriage to touch its flank. This naturally caused the animal to increase its speed, and, Miss Georgina Brown becoming alarmed, jumped out of the carriage, calling to her sister Florence to follow her example. Beyond a few bruises Miss Georgina Brown was uninjured, but her sister, who had followed her, fell with a sickening thud to the ground. The other occupants fortunately retained their presence of mind, and did all they could to stop the frightened pony. Although stunned by her fall, Miss Georgina Brown at once ran to her sister's aid, but it was apparent that she had sustained very serious injuries. A young man from Kettering rendered all the assistance in his power, and fortunately at this period Mr. T. Dunkley, the captain of the Rothwell Fire Brigade, arrived on the scene. Mr. and Mrs. Dyke, who were driving to Kettering to catch a train, came by a minute or two later, and very kindly gave up their vehicle for the conveyance of the unfortunate young woman to her home. Dr. John More was speedily in attendance and did his best for the injured girl; but despite all his efforts she died about four o'clock on Monday morning. It is supposed that the deceased's skull was fractured. The unfortunate young woman, who is about 22 years of age, was widely known throughout this district, and much sympathy is felt for her relatives.

At the New Inn, Rothwell, on Tuesday afternoon, the inquest was held by Mr. J. T. Parker.

The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

 Northampton Mercury, Friday 30 March 1894