Smithdale of Norwich
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Millwrights

Smithdale of Norwich 1847 to 1887+

Thomas Smithdale sn. was born c.1819 in Norwich. His parents were John, born c.1788 in St. Gregory, Norwich; and Susan, born c.1793 in St. Andrew's, Norwich. In 1851, both were given as weavers. He established the St. Ann's iron foundry in 1847. In 1851 he was given as a master iron and brass founder aged 42 employing 5 men and 1 apprentice, living at 12, St. Anns Street, St Peter Per Mountergate with his wife Mary A., 40 and son Thomas jn..

In 1853 Thomas took over the business of Charlotte Buttifant & Son.

Many of the firms' early records survive. Some of the estimates and orders from these books are reproduced below to give a cross section of the kind of work that a millwright and iron founder was doing in the mid-nineteenth century.

Thomas Smithdale employed John Gregory Buttifant in a senior position, as he was responsible for writing estimates that were sent to customers. In February 1853 some work was done for Lord Wodehouse.

Smithdale's Day Book 1853 - 1856
1853
.. Jan 		TINGAY & CO., HARDINGHAM  
New wheel patn. to Malt rolls  
4s.
  
2 new cast iron wheels
with Men's time fitting do. on spindle
turning rolls & fitting frame 		 

£1. 10s.
2 Feb. LORD WODEHOUSE, HARDINGHAM  
Pair Iron wedges to Water Wheel Gudgeon
32 lbs. 4½ oz.
12s.
  
7 Feb. LORD WODEHOUSE, HARDINGHAM  
2 Men, 1 day (each) Hedging Gudgeon Water Wheel shafts


Train
 10s.
4s.		  

N.B. Water Wheel could refer to a Waterwheel driving a watermill or to a scoopwheel driven by a windmill

St. Ann's Foundry, King Street,
Norwich, June 28th 1853
Mr. H. Gambling,
Sir,
Having examined the High_Mill,_Southdown, I beg to say I will undertake to execute the following repairs. viz. 1 new clamp to Stock 34ft long 12"x12". To take down the 4 sails and repair do. with new canvas to vanes, new screws & sail irons where necessary, to ease the neck brass, to make a new tail brass, to find new cogs and gear the wheel to drive the flourmills, with the cogs now in the Mill, one wood rigger to do. - to find cogs and gear 2 stone nuts, and repr. 2 pr. universal joints to flourmills with Men's time at Mill taking down and refixing sails &c. in a workmanlike manner will amt. to the sum of Sixty Four Pounds five shillings.
£64.5.0
I am,
Sir,
£64. 5. 0. Your Obedt. & Hble. Servt.
for Thos. Smithdale,
John G. Buttifant

Having got the order, Thomas Smithdale required some additional labour

TO MILLWRIGHTS
WANTED,
TWO GOOD MILLWRIGHTS. - Apply to T. Smithdale, St. Ann's Foundry, King Street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 2nd July 1853

The actual account for the work reads as follows:

9-7-1853
Mr. Gambling, Yarmouth
    
   
cost
with profit
   

£. s. d.
£. s. d.
  2 14" files
  
4.3.
  King. 6 days
1.8.0.
1.13.0.
  Brister. 5¾ do.
1. 3.11½
1. 8. 9.
  Labourer. 5 do.
12. 6.
15. 0.
16-7. King. 6 days
1. 8. 0.
1.13. 0.
  Brister. 6¼ do.
1. 6. ½
1.11. 3.
  Carrow. 5½ do.
Labourer. 3 do.
John G. B. ¾ do.
1. 0. 2.
7. 6.
3. 1½
1. 7. 6.
9. 0.
3. 9.









19-7.

30-7.

6-8.

13-8.


20-8.
27-8.

Train, J.G.B. and Men
H.C. & Brister, Lodgings
J.G.B. 2¼ days Patterns
3 maces & 3 rings
Sawing clamp
1 Gross 2in. screws
1 do. 1½in. do
50 cogs S. wheel
13 Yards Canvas for Vanes
21ft. Appletree 2.in for Stone nut cogs
Time cutting do.
Gowen. ¾ day Gearing
1 Step 12½ lbs.
4 Brasses Jumper. 3lbs.
Iron for crotches 9lbs.
Time at Mill
Do. shop.
Do. Do.
Do. Do.
Do. at Mill.
Do. at Shop.
Do. Mill.
22 yds. Canvass
Railway Expences and Journeys
5. 0.)_
4. 0.)
7.10½
7.10½
7. 4.
2.10.
1. 6.
11. 2½
9. 2½
7. 0.
8. 0.
3. 0.



7.15. 6.
1.11. 3.
6. 6.
19.10½
5.19. 9½
10. 2.
8. 3. 1.
15. 7.
2.0.0.

9. 0.
10. 1½
15. 9.
7. 4.
4. 6.
3. 6.
10.10½
10. 3½
10. 6.
3. 4½
3. 4½
14. 7.
4. 6.
4. 6.
9. 6. 0.
1.18. 3.
8. 6.
1. 6. 3.
7. 5. 6.
13. 6.
9.18. 9.
17. 5.
2.0.0.

Thus the cost to Smithdale's was £39. 5. 0½ and to Mr. Gambling £48.19.4½

St. Ann's Foundry, Oct. 15th 1853.
J. J. Berney, Esq,
Sir,
I will undertake to make a new segment, spur do, and pinion arm boss, shaft, plummerblock, and brass patterns for a Water Wheel 16ft. diamtr. for the sum of Sixteen Pounds.
£16. 0. 0.
I am Sir,
Your Obdt. & Hble. Servt.
Thos. Smithdale

St. Ann's Foundry, Oct. 29th 1853.
J. J. Berney, Esq,
Sir,
I will undertake to make a new Water Wheel 16 feet diameter on the rim, with segments, arms, bosses, shaft, plummer blocks, brasses, bolts, English oak starts 4 feet long, spur segments and pinion fitted up in a workmanlike manner, ready to fix in a Water Lane for the sum of One Hundred and Twenty five Pounds.
£125. 0. 0.
I am Sir,
Your Obdt. & Hble. Servt.
for Thomas Smithdale,
J. G. B.

N.B. Water Wheel could refer to a Waterwheel driving a watermill or to a scoopwheel driven by a windmill

The above would probably have been a scoopwheel. The Berney family had land on the marshes. The next order was for a waterwheel but it is not recorded whom it was for or where it was required

St. Ann's Foundry, Oct. 29th 1853.
Sir,
I will undertake to make a new Cast Iron Water Wheel 18 feet diameter with spur wheel and pinion, laying shaft, plummer blocks, brasses, bolts, and cast iron water lane with Time fitting up do. and fixing complete for the sum of One Hundred and Fifty five pounds. - the same wheel, shafts, &c. with a Brick Lane will be One Hundred and Sixty Pounds.
Iron Lane. £155.
Brick Lane. £160
I am Sir,
Your Obdt. & Hble. Servt.
for Thomas Smithdale, J. G. B.

The next order came from Messrs. Lucas Brothers, who were builder in Lowestoft. They were building a new church and later built the Lowestoft Central railway station

St. Ann's Foundry, Dec. 19th 1853.
Messrs. Lucas'
Gentlemen,
I will undertake to make, agreeable to tracings and deliver the same at Lowestoft for the St. John's Church the undermentioned goods - viz.
40 lengths of Cast iron guttering.
52 Do. Rain Water pipe.
5 Cistern heads.
33 Clips and 150 wrt. iron pipe nails 6in. long each, including Time making patterns for the sum of Sixty Five pounds Ten shillings.
£65.10. 0.
I am Gentlemen,
Your Obedient Servant,
Thos. Smithdale,
Ironfounder &c.


Thomas Smithdale was listed in White's Directory of 1854 as an iron & Brass founder, engineer &c. at St. Ann's Staith La.


St. Ann's Foundry, Feb. 2nd 1854.
Mr. Latham,
Sir,
I will undertake to put the large Crane (adjt. the Norwich Station) into repair, viz, New Wheel and pinion, pinion bored to fit spindle and hung with one Key, the wheel to be hung with 4 wrt. iron keys, also 2 new 5/8" bolts to catch for the sum of Four pounds fifteen shillings.
I am Sir,
Your Obedient Servant,
for Thomas Smithdale, John G. B.

A turntable was wanted on the railway in February 1854

St. Ann's Foundry, Feb. 27th 1854.
Mr. Latham,
Sir,
I will undertake to make the Castings to Complete the Turntable, viz, a new Top in halves, Centre Pin and cap of Do. Centre plate for Curble Ring and 12 Case Hardened Rolls and deliver the same at the Norwich Station for Ten pounds per Ton.
at £10 per Ton.
I remain Sir,
Your Obedt. Servt,
for Thomas Smithdale, T. S. Jnr.

Bixley towermill was struck by lightning on the 23rd May 1854 and consequently a new sail and half stock were required

Messrs Clare & Son
Gentlemen,
I will undertake to make a new Sail to your mill, thirteen yards long and eight feet wide with all new vanes, levers, flats, pivots, thimbles & Cuthead screws to Do. complete - Also a new Half Stock of Good Memel Timber 40 feet long 12x12 inches, new sail bolts, backstays &c. with Mens time and fixing new half stock and Sail for the sum of Sixty Two Pounds.
I remain,
Gentlemen,
Your Obedt. Servant,
for Thomas Smithdale,
Thos Smithdale Jnr.

St. Ann's Foundry, King St. Norwich, Jan 13/57.
Mr. Elvin, Marsham Mill.
Sir, I will undertake to Cast a Wind Shaft 27Cwt. to turn & fit Tail gudgeon finding all bolts for same ready for fixing for the sum of Nineteen pounds.
£19. 0. 0.
Thos. Smithdale.

Messrs. Clare and Sons were adding a steam mill to their windmill at Bixley. Smithdale was the supplier of the new engine.
St. Ann's Foundry, King St. Norwich, Jan. 13/57
Messrs. Clare & Son,
Gentlemen,
I will undertake to make one Horizontal Steam Engine of eight horse power viz,
One Cylinder Nine inch bore and Twenty inch Stroke with Governors complete & pumps for supplying Boiler, with an Eight foot Flywheel of one Ton weight with Cornish boiler Twelve feet long, Four foot diameter and Two foot flue and plates 3/8" thick to be supplied with Slacking Valve, Safety Valve, Two Gauge cocks and Glass water Gauge with Door frame & fire bars complete.
The above to be completed and fixed to the end of the Fly wheel shaft for the Sum of Two Hundred & Ten pounds.
£210. 0. 0. This price will not include Steam pipe, Suction pipe, Masonry & Brick Work.
Yours Obediently,
Thos. Smithdale.

TO MILLERS AND MILLWRIGHTS
TO BE SOLD A BARGAIN
A Capital CAST-IRON WIND SHAFT and OAK POST, suitable for a Post Windmill
Apply to Thos. Smithdale, St. Ann's Iron Works, King-street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 3rd April 1858.

Two orders from Taverham Paper Mills:
St. Ann's Iron Works, King St. Norwich,
June ..th 1858.
Messrs. Delane, Magnay & Co.
Gentlemen,
I will undertake to deliver & fix on your Works at Taverham one Gas Holder, 13ft. Diameter, 8ft. Deep. made from sheet iron of 14 Gauge with all necessary stays and angle iron.
Cast iron Tank 14ft, Dia., 8ft. deep, ½. thick with columns, Chain pulleys, counterbalance weights with inlet & outlet pipes. The whole to be completed to your satisfaction for the Sum of one hundred & twenty pounds. £120.
I remain,
Yr. Obedt. Servant,
Thos. Smithdale.
P. S. Sir, I think you mentioned to have the New Gas Holder 1ft. longer than the old one which you will perceive I have given in the Sketch forward with the first tender.

St. Ann's Iron Works, King St. Norwich,
Aug 11th 1858.
Messrs Delane, Magnay & Co.
Gentlemen,
I will undertake to complete and Deliver one Bolt Screwing Machine to turn from 3/8in. to 1¼ inches Diameter, with 8 Taps, 8 pair Dies, Nut, Tap & Die holder, Driving Apparatus with reversing Motion & Master Taps & turn key for the Sum of Fifty five Pounds.
£55. 0. 0.
Trusting you will favour me with your order,
I remain,
Your Obedient Servant,
Thos. Smithdale.

Further orders from Colmans of Stoke Holy Cross

St. Ann's Iron Works, King St. Norwich,
Mr. Samuel Colman,
Dr Sir, August 11th 1858.
I beg to say the Price of One Double Hydraulic Press 4ft. 8in. between Columns and Rams by 3ft. with 12in. Diameter casing distance 8in. with 4 wrought iron Columns to each Press 31/8in. Diameter for working Pressure of 400 Tons each, with one set of Gun Metal Double Pumps 2½in. x 1in. Dia. Rams with Double stoppers Complete for the Sum of Two Hundred and Eighty five Pounds.
£285. =. =.
I remain,
Your Obedient Servant,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works, King St,
Norwich, Nov 22nd 1858.
Mr. J. J. Colman,
Dr Sir,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you the Price for Three Single lift Hydraulic Presses 5 feet by 5 feet, with 9 inch Ram and 9 inch Lift with 6 Wrought iron Columns of 3 inches Diameter to each Press and one sett of Gun Metal Double Pumps 2½ inch and one inch Diameter Rams, with 3 setts of Gun Metal Double Stoppers and Stop valves complete for Working pressure of 100 Tons each, with connecting Pipes and Ram Leathers, the above to be fitted and finished in a Workman like manner as per Drawings and forwarded to Carrow Works for the Sum of Four Hundred and Fifty Pounds. £450. 0. 0.
I remain,
Your obedient Servant,
Thos. Smithdale.

Early in 1859 a new windshaft and brake wheel was fitted to a windmill at Burnham Overy for William Anderson.

In the summer of 1859, Smithdales were working on a windmill at Mileham, Norfolk.

The engine of Stalham_smock_mill, which had been installed in 1848, required repairs to the cylinder and piston

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Feby 25/60.
Mr. R. Cooke,
Dear Sir, Having duly considered the Alterations required to be done to your Engine at Stalham Mill I beg to say I will undertake to make a New Internal Cylinder and Metallic Piston for do. to be turned, bored fitted &fixed complete for the sum of twenty one pounds ten shillings.
£21.10. 0.
I am,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, July 10/60
Mr. Long,
Sir, Agreeable to your request I beg to inform you that I am willing to supply you with one 13ft. Turn Table complete, to be delivered at Norwich Railway Station for the sum of sixty five pounds. £65. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

In 1860, Thomas_Smithdale was called upon to carry out some repairs and alterations to Bird’s_Mill at Philadelphia, just off the Aylsham Road.
His account reads: -

Cwt. qr. lb.
£. s. d.
Jan 19.
 Parker. Pattern to 1 shaft.
3 hr.
3. 0.14
2. 5. 6
24
 Barnes. Turning Shaft.
2 hr.
2. 0
Paling. " "
¾ day
7. 6
25
 " " "
½ day
5. 0.
27
 " " "
1 hr.
1. 0.
Feb. 16.
 To 1 shaft.
2. 1. 9.
1. 7.11½
20
 Segger. Turning Mill Shaft.
4. hr. )_
5. 6.
21
 " " " "
1½ hr.)
Mar. 15.
 Thoulness Cutting Key Way in Clutch
3 hr.
1. 0.
Segger. Boring Clutch.
1½ hr.
1. 6.
Apr. 2.
 Lloyd. To Clutch Pattern.
2 hr.
2. 0.
3
 To 3 Clutches.
1. 1.23.
17. 4.
Segger. Boring do.
5½ hr.
5. 6.
5
 Towlson Cutting Key Way in Clutch
6½ hr.
3. 3.
13
 Parker. Drilling Dye to Shafting.
13 hr.
15. 0.
Lawrence. " " " "
1½ hr.
6
Segger. Turning do.
10½ hr.
10. 6.
14
 " " "
7½ hr
7. 6.
Parker. Drilling do.
4 hr.
4. 0.
Lawrence. Fitting do.
1 hr.
3
16
 Segger Turning Shafting
1 day.
12. 0.
to 2 shafts
10. 0. 0.
7.10. 0.
17
 Harrison. Cutting Key ways in Shaft
4½ hr
4. 6.
Keymer. " " " "
+ Keying in Clutches
11½ hr
5. 9.
Lawrence 3 Keys for Shafts &c.
4 hr.
3. 0.

A windshaft was required at Mileham_tower_mill:
St. Ann's Iron Works, King Street, Norwich, July 28/60.
Mr. Tilney,
Sir, I am willing to supply you with One Wind Shaft and Tail Gudgeon, Four Angle Plates & Bolts. Shaft to be Turned Neck + Tail end. The Shaft to weigh 24cwt. The whole to be done in a Workman-like manner for the sum of sixteen pounds, to be completed in one Month.
£16. -. -.
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Aug. 7/60.
Mr. Z. Long,
Attleborough,
Dear Sir, I beg to inform you that I am willing to supply you with one 13ft. Turntable with Single Line complete, to be able to carry any Truck up to 15 Tons weight. To be of good material and sound Workmanship, Delivered at Thorpe Railway Station by the 25th day of August, 1860, and fixed on your premises at Attleboro' for the sum of fifty five pounds sterling.
£55. -. -.
I am,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

A new axle was required for one of the waterwheels at Buxton mill:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Aug. 18/60.
Mr. Howlett,
Dear Sir,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you price for one New Cast Iron Water Wheel Shaft, with 2 Gun Metal Neck Bearings, 2 bridgin Pots, fitted with Wrought Iron Wedges and Screws. to be same size and length as present one at the Buxton end of the Mill. The above to be Turned and fitted ready for fixing in the Mill for the sum of forty-nine pounds, ten shillings. £49.10. -.
The whole to be done in a Workman-like Manner.
Waiting your reply
I am, Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King St. Norwich, Apr. 6/61.
St. Bennet's Abbey Estate, See of Norwich.
I am willing to supply and fix on the above Estate one Water Scoop Wheel and pinion, 28ft. diameter and 12 inches Wide, with Shaft and bearings, Sluice door and frame and Cladding for Water Wheel Race and every other requisite to complete the same according and specification. The whole to be Manufactured of the best Materials and Workmanship for the sum of one hundred and seventy five pounds. The above to include all carriage of Water Wheel &c. to its intended place.
£175.
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Tho. Smithdale.
Mr. Wright,
Norwich.

Mr. Thorold,
Dear Sir,
Agreeable to your request I beg to say I am willing to make & fix at Stoke Mills one set of Stone Pans, with Wheels, Governors & connecting Shaft &c. &c. for do. Also hang one pair of Friction Wheels on Horizontal Shaft and Stone Spindle according to plan and Specification. The Work to be done in a Workmanlike Manner for the sum of fifty pounds.
£50. -. -.
I am,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Bixley towermill required a cistern in December 1860:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Decr. 15/60
Mr. Clare,
Sir,
Having made a calculation of the weight of the Cistern you mentioned, viz, 12ft. long, 3ft. wide & 3ft. Deep. The weight will be 25 Cwt. to include Bolts, Nuts, & Iron Cement, with mens time fitting the same, the price will be twelve pounds, ten shillings.
I am, Sir,
Your Obt. Servt.,
Thos Smithdale.

In 1861 Thomas Smithdale Sr. was given as an iron founder aged 47 employing 25 men and 8 boys living in King Street, St. Peter Per Mountergate with his children Edward, 14; John 12; Mary Ann, 11; Anna M. 5 and Emma, 3. Henry Smithdale was given as an Iron Foundry Man aged 36 born in Heigham. He was living in Wellington Yard, St. Stephen's with his wife Maria, 40, sons Henry, 14, Prentice to Iron Founder; Walter, 12; George, 10; William, 6, and Alfred, 5 months and daughters Eliza, 11; Martha, 8 and Ellen, 3.

In April 1861 a steam drainage mill was wanted by the St. Benet's Abbey Estate. This may have been to replace the windmill at St. Benet's Abbey, the tower of which still stands.
St. Bennet's Abbey Estate, See of Norwich.
I am willing to supply, fix and put to work on the above Estate (exclusive of Builder's Work) one Steam Engine with combined cylinder and every other requisite to complete the same and with Cornish Boiler, Furnace, and all other fittings and connections. The whole to be complete according to Plans and Specification and Manufactured of the best material and finished in the first style of Workmanship for the sum of Six hundred pounds. The above price to include all carriage of Engine, Boiler, and Machinery and every other item.
£600.
I am, Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Tho. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King St. Norwich, Apr. 6/61.
St. Bennet's Abbey Estate, See of Norwich.
I am willing to supply and fix on the above Estate one Water Scoop Wheel and pinion, 28ft. diameter and 12 inches Wide, with Shaft and bearings, Sluice door and frame and Cladding for Water Wheel Race and every other requisite to complete the same according and specification. The whole to be Manufactured of the best Materials and Workmanship for the sum of one hundred and seventy five pounds. The above to include all carriage of Water Wheel &c. to its intended place.
£175.
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Tho. Smithdale.
Mr. Wright,
Norwich.

In 1861 a drainage mill at Norton Subcourse was to be refitted. The mill in question was probably Boyce's Mill, Norton Subcourse (TG403011). A stump remains today with the remains of a 12ft. diameter scoopwheel. The mill had patent sails latterly although Smithdale quoted for common sails.
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 25 May 1861.
Norton Subcourse Drainage.
To the Commissioners of Norton Drainage,
Gentlemen,
I have minutely examined the Mill Tower now standing in the Parish of Norton Subcourse which I find to be a sound and substantial piece of Brickwork, quite suitable for the Work it is intended. I also find that the following work is necessary to be done to put the Mill in good working condition.
Viz.
To New Cap to the Mill, fitted complete with four new sails, and cloths for all. Cast Iron Wind Shaft, neck and tail ends turned up and Cast Iron neck and tail carriages fitted with Bell Metal Brasses and Iron Bolts, New Oak Curble fitted together with Wrought Iron rings and spindle Rolls. New Cast Iron Wallower Wheel and Head Wheel and Gripe to do. with fixings. New Cast Iron Gudgeon for Upright Shaft with Bearing, Turned to do. Plum Block and Brasses with Iron Bolts. The Cap and Sails to be painted with three Coats of Paint. To New Cast Iron Bridge Tree for upright shaft with Bridgen Pot, step Brass and Bolts fitted complete with drawing Screw and Hand Wheel as drawing. New Cast Iron Water Wheel Shaft, 11ft. long, 7" diameter, Turned on Bearings. Two new Plum Blocks and Brasses and Bolts complete for do. as showing in plan.
New Cast Iron Scoop Wheel ring with oak starts, 10ft. diameter or thereabouts with driving pinion and cog segment fitted complete with round rings, Bolts and Screw for do. as shown. One 3" wrought Iron Shaft turned on Bearings, Two Plum Blocks and Brasses and Bolts fitted complete for do. Two Cast Iron Brackets with Bolts to be Bolted to the Wall of the Mill. One Drum Wheel, turned and Bored to be hung upon the aforesaid shaft to carry the strap driven from the Portable Engine as shown. Two cast Iron circular plates for sides of Water Lane and new staple posts for door. To raise the present hood and make it sufficiently large for the New Wheel. The Water Wheel and hood covering to have two coats of Tar and Naptha.
Bricklayers Work to repair the Water Lane and alter the breast and raise the walls of do., to cut the newel hole in Tower to receive the Water Wheel Shaft and Brick up the old one. To Build Brick piers with cement for carrying the end Bearings of Water Wheel Shaft and to cut away and raise the present door heads in Tower to sufficient height to allow a man to have easy ingress and egress and to make doors and door frame fitt. complete.
Seven Horse power Portable Engine with driving strap and every requisite for Working the same complete and also to construct a Building suitable for all Engine House as shown on plan.
Gentlemen, I am willing and hereby offer to execute the whole of the aforesaid Work as per specification for the sum of five hundred and twelve pounds, one shilling. The whole to be completed with the best materials and sound Workmanship.
£512. 1. -.
I have the honor to be,
Gentlemen,
Your Obt. Servt,
Tho. Smithdale.

I should also recommend the present Water Way between the Mill and the Road to be made the same width as the Brick Arch under the road. To take down the present Brick Arch to the springings of its centres and rebuild the Walls perpendicular, one foot three inches higher than the present Arch Way and cover the same with Wrought Iron Girder Plates. Which said alteration can be carried out without making the road higher than at present, And for which I should be most happy to give you a price for the completion of the aforesaid Work should you think it requisite to have it done.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, June 11/61.
Engine. £223.
Building. £172.
Norton Subcourse Drainage.
To the Commissioners of Norton Drainage.
Gentlemen,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you price for a New Brick and Slate covered Building with Chimney shaft 34ft. high. The Building to be Erected upon a planking and Cement foundation, all the walls to be 14" thick, built with good new Kiln brick well grouted and bond Iron laid between every two course of brick, with Cast Iron Window frames, Heads & Sills and Door Head.
The Roof to be of the best foreign timber with Cast Iron Gutter and leading down pipes with pipe drains from the building to the dyke, all the Iron and Wood Work to receive two coats of paint.
One Horizontal Steam Engine of 8 Horse power, with 9¼" Cylinder, Fly Wheel 8ft. diameter, with Cornish Boiler 4ft. High and 12ft. long. the whole to be fitted and fixed in the above building, with steam feed and exhaust pipes, feed pump, throttle valves and Governors and every other requisite for the efficient working of the same. All the above to be of Good sound Workmanship and material, for the sum of three hundred and ninety five pounds.
£395. -. -.
I have the honor to be,
Gentlemen,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.
P.S. Portable Engine and Wood Building for do. £227.
Price for Mill Work. £285. 1. -.
£512. 1. -.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, June 26/61.
To the Revd. John Holmes, Brooke Hall,
Revd. Sir,
Agreeable to your request I have examined the Mill at Brooke and I find the following New Work and repairs are necessary to be done.
viz,
1
 New Cast Iron Wind Shaft, Turned & Fitted, about 15ft. 6" long, Weight about 22 Cwt.
1
 New Memel Timber Stock, 42ft. long or thereabouts, 11" x 12".
2
 New Patent Sails and New whips to do. Sail 8 yards long, 7ft. 6" wide.
4
 New Memel timber Clamps, 16ft. long, for Stocks.
4
 New Memel timber Clamps, 16ft. long, for Stocks.
1
 New Cast Iron Wallower to gear into Head Wheel, Pitched and Trimmed.
2
 New Cast Iron Drums for Sack Tackle, Turned & Bored.
To re-cast the Neck and Tail Brasses for Wind Shaft.
To repair the Head Wheel & Gripe for do. with new Bolts and Strap for do.
with Mens Time at Mill taking down old Sails, Stock and Shaft and refixing the New Work.
with Mens Time at Mill taking down the old Sails, Stock and Shaft and refixing the New Work.
all the above to be completed in a Workmanlike manner, carriage included for the sum of ninety seven pounds, twelve shillings and six pence.
£97.12. 6.
Waiting your reply,
I have the honor to be,
Revd. Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Sept. 24/61.

Mr. Buckenham,
Dear Sir,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you price for the following repairs and Alterations reqd. for the Mill at Attleboro. viz.
1 New Cast Iron Curbel, 13ft diar., fitted up with 16 7/8 Bolts & Nuts.
1 New Pinion for Curbel, 12 " diar., bored to fit spindle.
1 Cast Iron Roll & frame.
2 Plum Blocks, fitted with Brasses and bolts.
1 2" Wrought Iron Spindle.
Borg. Plum Blocks and Turg. Spindle.
Wood Batten for Weather Boards.
Coach Screws & Bolts for the above.
The above Work to be delivered at the Mill and with Mens time fitting and fixg. the same for the sum of sixty three pounds.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

There was a storm in November 1861. One of the casualties was Little_Melton_towermill. Smithdale's were asked to repair the mill. The evidence that this estimate was for Little Melton was that the miller in 1862 was Samuel Burrell and in its latter days the mill carried odd sails. One pair had four shutters per bay and the other had three shutters per bay. It is probable that the latter sails were the ones that Smithdale's supplied, as they would have had a smaller number of castings per sail and consequently would have been cheaper. The original estimate mentions repairing three sails whereas a subsequent estimate only mentions repairing two sails for the reduced sum of £135.8s.1d.
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Decr. 3/61.

Mr. Burrell,
Dear Sir,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you my price for the work necessary at Melton. viz. One New Cap complete, New Cast Iron Curble & Winding Tackle complete. 3 New Sails and one Sail repaired. One New Stock and one stock to be spliced. One Set of Striking Tackle at head and as many New Cast segments for Breake Wheel as required. One new Tail Gudgeon, all the above to be completed and fixed in your Mill in a Workman-like Manner for the sum of one hundred and fifty one pounds.
£151. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Walter Cudbard, one of Thomas Smithdale's employees, who had been working for some time at the paper mill at Taverham, committed suicide there on the 2nd March 1862.

Further equipment was wanted at Taverham paper mills:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Mar.5/62.

Messrs. Delane, Magnay & Co.
Gentlemen,
Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you Tracing and price for Alum Mill, which I should be willing to supply fitted up in a strong and substantial manner with Derbyshire peak Bed Stone + Runners and fixed in your Mill at Taverham for the sum of forty five pounds.
£45. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Gentlemen,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

In reference to the weight of the Solid shaft named in your letter I beg to say the weight will be five tons, five cwt. or thereabouts. The Bearings for the old shaft are in hand and shall be completed as soon as possible.

A further enquiry about the alum mill was answered thus:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Mar. 11/62.
Messrs. Delane, Magnay &Co,
Gentlemen,
In answer to your inquiry respecting the Edge Runner for Alum Mill, upon the same principle as Messrs. E. Reynolds & Co. I beg to inform you that I am willing to supply the following articles to complete the same viz, One Pair of Edge Runner, Bed Stone 2ft. 6" diar., 8" thick, Derbyshire Peak. Cast Iron Ring with slide for do. Cast Iron Upright Shaft, Bridgin Pot and Step Brass, Cross Shaft with collars and Bosses for Edge Stones & Driving shaft, and Pair of Wheels, 3 Plum Blocks and Brasses for do. Driving Drums on same shaft, Wrought Iron Stirrers and Singlers.
The Whole to be Turned, Bored and fitted and delivered at your works for the sum of thirty two pounds, ten shillings.
Waiting your reply,
I have the honor to be,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Messrs. Delane, Magnay & Co.'s response to an estimate:
Taverham Mills,
Norwich,
March 20th 1862.

Mr. Smithdale,
Sir,
We have duly received your Plan and Estimate for the Cistern with agitation but think the price too high as we paid £15.10 for those you saw when they were first introduced some 10 years ago - and no doubt cheaper now. We have received a very nice drawing for a shaft, solid body 8in. with 4 wings parallel, 3in. thick. Can you cast on the slope?
Yours Obedty,
Delane, Magnay & Co.
P.S. Price for a filter Pan about 3ft. 4in. Dia, 2ft. 3 Deep.

A postmill needed some new sails and a fantail. The estimates seem to refer to the post mill at The Knoll, Hindringham. Frederick Clarke was listed as a miller in Hindringham in 1865. The reason for the repairs being needed was probably that the mill had been struck by lightning. Note that the Sack Tackle needed repairing - the route of the lightning to earth - and that the letter is dated July, a common time for thunderstorms. Two estimates were sent in:
St. Ann's,
July 25-1862.

Mr. Clarke,
Sir, Agreeable to your request I herewith send you my price for completing the following Work & repairs at your Mill, viz
2 New Memel Timber Stocks, 44ft. long, 12" x 12".
4 New Pattent Sails, 8yds. long, 7ft. 6" wide.
New Irons for Striking Tackle complete.
New Winding apparatus at Stairs foot complete.
To repair Flour Mill and Sack Tackle, with mens time fixing all the above work with shaft in the Mill for the sum of one hundred and fifteen pounds.
£115. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

July 25 1862.

Mr. Clarke,
Sir, Agreeable to your request I herewith send you my price for completing the following Work and Repairs at your Mill, viz.
2 New Memel Timber Stocks, 44ft. long, 12" x 12".
2 New Pattent Sails, 8yds. long, 7ft. 6" wide, with Vanes altered to suit the same.
2 New Cloth Sails, same size as above.
Striking Tackle repaired with New Irons to do.
New Winding Apparatus at Stairs foot complete.
To repair Flour Mill and Sack Tackle, with Mens time fixing the above Work with shaft in the mill for the sum of Ninety five pounds.
£95. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Another post mill needed some repairs:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 25 Oct/62.

Mr. Drane,
Dear Sir, Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you price for the Work required to be done in your Mill viz,
1 New Set of Winding Tackle to Wind from the stairs foot, complete except the fly as we intend to bring the old fly into use again. To secure the Weather Beam with Cast Iron Brackets and with Iron Bolts to go through the Mill to Tail Beam.
the Work to be delivered and fixed at your Mill including mens time and Cartage for the sum of thirty two pounds, six shillings and six pence, and the old Materials to belong to the contractor.
The above price is for Cash upon completion of the Work.
£32. 6. 6.
Waiting your reply,
I have the honor to be,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

The estimate below refers to the smockmill at Heigham:
S. S. Beare, Esqr,
Sir,
Machinery required for driving the Bark Mill by the Steam Engine, viz, Two 3ft. driving pinions, turned, bored and fitted, one 3" Wrought Iron Shaft, 16ft. long or thereabouts, turned to fit Drums and Brasses. Three pairs of Plummr. Blocks fitted with Brasses and Bolts complete.
One Cast Iron Wall Box and 2 Brackets, One Pair of Large Bevel Wheels, turned, bored and fitted, 30ft. of 5" Leather driving Band or thereabouts. And all Bolts required to fix the same with mens time fixing the Bark Mill and the above Machinery for the sum of Thirty eight pounds.
£38. -. -.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Mr. Smithdale to take down and have the old mill and Bark Mill at Heigham for which he will allow Mr. Beare the sum of Thirty five pounds.
£35. -. -. to be allowed for Mill as above stated.
(Order rec'd June 26-1863.)

TO LANDOWNERS AND MILLERS
TO BE SOLD
AN excellent Smock TOWER WINDMILL with Four Patent Sails, new three years since, with Cast Iron Wind and Upright Shaft, in first-class condition. Can be taken down and re-fixed at a reasonable expence.
For Prices, &c., apply to Thomas Smithdale, St. Ann's Iron Work, King Street, Norwich.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, July 10, 1863.

W. H. Denville, Esqr,
Dear Sir, Having duly considered the subject relative to a Wind-mill and Scoop Wheel for draining as named yesterday I beg to say that I should be willing to remove and fix the Wind-Mill as advertised with New Cast Iron Scoop Wheel 16ft. diameter, with Oak Starts and floats with Wrought Iron Shaft and driving Gear for the same, with Sluice door and hood for covering Scoop Wheel, all the above work to be fixed and put to Work for the sum of one hundred and ninety five pounds.
The above price not to include Brickwork
Waiting your reply
I have the honour to be,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
£195. -. -. Thos. Smithdale.

P.S. In reference to a Steam Engine I beg to say that I could supply one new eight Horse-power Steam Engine, with Cornish Boiler, and all fittings with new Cast Iron Scoop Wheel, Oak Starts and floats, Wrought Iron driving shaft and bearings, All the above Work to be fixed complete and put to Work for the sum of two hundred and eighty pounds.
£280. -. -.
The above price not to include Brickwork.
T. S.

There was a proposal to convert the paper mill at Sheringham into a corn mill:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 18 July 1863.

Mr. Critoph,
Dear Sir, Having duly considered the matter respecting the converting your Mill at Sheringham from Paper to a Flour Mill. In the first place I find your new Pit Wheel will not be sufficiently large to get the proper speed for driving Mill Stones, it will therefore require a New Cast Iron Pit Wheel of not less than 12ft. Diameter, one New Cast Iron Wallower to gear with the New Pit Wheel. I am therefore willing to supply all the undermentioned Articles for the Working of 2 Pairs of Stones, Flour Mill, sifter and Sack Tackle viz.
New Cast Iron Pit Wheel and Wallower, 2 Pairs Cast Iron counter Wheels, Gear'd, pitched and trimmed, one 6" Counter Shaft, with Plumr. Blocks, Brasses and Bolts complete. One Cast Iron Foundation plate and bolts for end of counter shaft. One 4ft. Drum, One 3ft. Drum, Two 2ft. Drums, Turned and bored, for driving Flour Mill, sifter and Sack Tackle, One Pair of 3ft. 6" Peak Stones, fitted with Vats and Hoppers. Two Stone Spindles, Stone Box's and Brasses, turned and fitted complete. Four Cast Iron Columns, Two Bridge Trees, fitted with Bridgen Pots and Brasses. One New Flour Mill, One New Sifter, New Sack Tackle complete. Wrought Iron Shaft for driving Sack Tackle, Sifter, &c. with Cast Iron Brackets & Bolts, all the New Leather Straps for driving Flour Mill, Sack Tackle &c. with mens time at Mill. All the above Work to be delivered, fixed and put to Work for the sum of one hundred and ninety five pounds.
£195. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I have the honor to be,
Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

N.B. As I consider the repairing of the Water Wheel is a carpenters job I think that it would be advisable for you to get your Carpenter to do it and we should be willing to give him any instruction while we are fixg. the work in the Mill.

Thomas Smithdale appeared in Court in November 1863, charged with assaulting an apprentice:
NORWICH POLICE INTELLIGENCE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12,
Before the MAYOR (OSBORN SPRINGFIELD, Esq,), E. WILLETT, J. SULTZER, J. BETTS, and W. J. UTTEN BROWNE.
ASSAULTING AN APPRENTICE. - Thomas Smithdale, of the King-street foundry, was charged with ill-using his apprentice, Perry Green. Mr. Bailey appeared on behalf of Mr. Smithdale. The ill-usage complained of by the apprentice was, that on last Monday, when he went to his work at his proper time, defendant's son pushed him out of the shop; and would not let him work. Plaintiff told him he was not his master and returned to the shop. Defendant then came in and kicked him out. He said nothing to provoke him to the assault. This was not the first time he had been maltreated. He thought from the way his master treated him in comparison to the way he treated the other apprentices, that he wanted to get rid of him. - By Mr. Bailey: I used not to be fighting with another apprentice. I have had to use some force to get tools from an apprentice named Reeve. Reeve may have been using the callipers. - By Mr. Blake: It is usually known that when turning is going on the callipers are in use. - By Mr. Bailey: I asked Reeve for the callipers. It was in consequence of my fighting for these tools that Mr. Smithdale turned me off. I have several times asked to be allowed to work. I may have been complained of myself by the foreman, Mr. Smithdale's son, and the workmen. I have spoilt some things, and have been cut off 1s. for it, and on another occasion 2s. 6d. I have received money for overtime. - Have you stated to the magistrates that although you were entitled to overtime you have not received it? Yes. - Mr. Bailey said that Mr. Smithdale had endeavoured to do all he could for the youth, but from the systematic way in which he misconducted himself he had to turn him off his premises, but in doing so he used no unnecessary violence. - Plaintiff called a man named Dredge, who deposed to seeing Mr. Smithdale turn Green out of the shop. Green said that he should not go, as he had come there to work, and then Mr. Smithdale pushed him out. He did not push him further than the door.
The MAYOR said: The bench are of opinion that Mr. Smithdale was not justified in using his foot in ejecting you (plaintiff), but they still think that your conduct was such as was not creditable to you, and they do not think that there has been a sufficient case of assault made out to convict Mr. Smithdale, and therefore the case is dismissed. - Mr. Bailey was then proceeding to make an application to the bench that he might be allowed to produce witnesses to depose to the character of Green, when the bench reminded him that Mr. Smithdale must make a specific charge in the first place. - Mr. BLAKE said Green had complained to them that his master would not give him employment, and they found he had exceeded their advice. - The bench thought Mr. Smithdale had better take the boy back, and if he misconducted himself to bring him before them. - This course was adopted by Mr. Smithdale.
Norfolk Chronicle - 14th November 1863

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, Feby. 12-1864.

Mr. Cooke,
Dear Sir,
Having carefully gone through the items in reference to a New Water Wheel in Horstead Mills I find there will require three New Cast Iron Ring fitted and bolted together. All new float boards, Back boards and Oak Starts. Bolts and Nuts with Mens time fitting and fixing the same and taking out the old Wheel will be about one hundred and ten pounds and all the old materials.
about £110.-.-.
Waiting your reply,
I am, Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.
50
  Back Boards 12" wide, 9ft long, 1" thick.
50
   Float Boards 12" wide, 9ft long, 1" thick.
150
   Struts, Oak 4" wide 2ft. 6" long 1" thick.
6
  Extra Bolts about 72 long to bolt arms together.
150
   Small Bolts repairing.
150
   Bolts saything about 5".
150
   Wedges about 8" long, 3" Wide, 2" thick.
24
   Oak Wedges, 12" long 6" wide 2" thick for Hanging Water Wheel.
1
   Stone of Gate Nails.
    Time for 3 men, 4 Weeks each.
140ft.
   Oak Plank for Starts.
12ft.
   of 3" Poplar.
    Time 1 Week.

Mr. Critoph of Sheringham obviously considered that French burr stones would be preferable to Derby Peak stones and that the water wheel was either not worth repairing or was not powerful enough...
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 11 Mar. 1864.
Mr. Critoph,
Dear Sir,
Having duly considered the matter relative to the Water Wheel and mill gearing for driving two pairs of stones in your mill at Sheringham viz
To take out the old Water Wheel and refix a new one with cast Iron Rings of Metal not less than one foot deep to form the Bucket sides with New Wood Buckets and new arms to the wheel and all wrt. Iron Bolts for the same. One new Cast Iron Pit Wheel and Wallower. Two New Counter Wheels and Stone nuts geared, pitched and trimmed. One 6" Counter Shaft with plumr. Blocks, Brasses and Bolts, turned, bored and fitted. Cast Iron foundation plate and Bolts for End of counter shaft. 4 Cast Iron Drum Riggers, Cast, turned and bored, for driving flour mill, Sifter and sack Tackle. Two pair of French Burr Stones, 3ft. 8" and 3ft. 6" diameter, fitted with Vats and hopper. Two stone spindles. Two stone Boxes and two Box's and two Damsels, turned and fitted complete. 4 Cast Iron Columns, 2 Bridge Trees & Bridgin Pots, fitted with Brasses. One New Flour Mill, sifter and sack Tackle. Wrought Iron Shaft and Plumr. Blocks, fitted with Brasses and Bolts. 2 Cast Iron Brackets and Bolts, 4 New Leather Bands. All the above to be made of first-rate materials, delivered and fixed at Sheringham including Carting with mens time for the sum of two hundred and fifty pounds.
£250. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I am, Dear Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 23 Apr. 1864.

F. S. Watson, Esq,
Sir, Having duly examined the Water Wheel and Shaft at Itteringham Mill I find it in a most delapidated condition and not in a fit state to be repaired.
I therefore beg to lay before you an estimate. To take out the old Wheel and Shaft and fix in new ones. The wheel to be 16 feet diameter and 8 feet Wide, with three Cast Iron rings well fitted and bolted together, with Cast Iron Starts, Best Memel timber floats and back boards and all necessary bolts and nuts. One new Cast Iron Shaft to weigh about 35cwt., with neck carriages and wall plate with turned journals and Key and planed for hanging Wheel on Shaft, also two Gun Metal Neck Brasses, Cast and bored to fit the Same. Two Cast Iron Bosses and four Angles for hanging pit wheel on New Shaft, the above work, which shall be made of the best materials and sound workmanship for the sum of two hundred and seven pounds, ten shillings.
£207.10. -.
Oak starts, 190. 10. -.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

An engine was wanted at Taverham paper mill:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street, Norwich, 5 April 1864.

Messrs. Delane, Magnay, & Co.,
Gentlemen, Agreeable to your request I beg to hand you price for one Cast Iron Engine as per plan produced (without the Knives and Washing Bundle) will be eighty five pounds delivered at Norwich.
£85. -. -.
Waiting your reply,
I have the honor to be,
Gentlemen,
Your Obt. Servt,
Thos. Smithdale.

Thomas_Smithdale's ledger of 15th February 1865 listed a pair of millstones and items for a steam engine as being booked to Mr. Tilney of Mileham.


Earsham Mills,
Bungay, Mar 9/65.

Mr. Smithdale,
Sir,
Pray what is your price for a good substantial ten horse power horizontal engine with heating apparatus & a 12 horse boiler, price on rail or into craft at Norwich.
Yours Respectfully,
R. H. Clarke.
King Street, Norwich,
March 10th 1865.

Mr. R. H. Clarke,
Dear Sir,
In reply to yours of the 9th to hand this morning I beg to say that I can supply you with a First Class 10 Horse Horizontal Steam Engine made from the same patterns as the one I fixed at Wainford Mills with 12 Horse Cornish Boiler 14ft long, 4ft. 6in. dia with Heating Apprts and all fixings complete, put to work exclusive of Brickwork for the sum of Two Hundred and thirty five pounds.
Awaiting your reply,
I remain, Dear Sir,
Yours respy,
£245. 0. 0. pro T. S., T. S. jr.
P.S. If you would name any day next week I would take the liberty of driving over to see you in reference to the above.

Following his inspection of Earsham mill, Thomas Smithdale sent in his tender for the work required to work the mill by steam power as well as water:
St. Ann's Iron Works,
King Street,
Norwich,
April 4th 1865.

To Mr. Clarke,
Sir,
The following is a list of articles required for driving 4 pairs of Stones in your Mills by Steam Power, Viz
18 feet of 3¼ inch thick Wrought Iron Bright Shafting (or thereabouts), 4 Wrought Iron Crotch Spindles, turned & fitted with Damsels attached.
4 New Maces.
4 2½ In. Plumb blocks fitted with Brasses & Bolts.
3 3¼ in. do. do. do.
3 Cast Iron Brackets for carrying Counter Shaft.
6 Bolts & 6 Wall Plates for Do.
1 4ft. Drum, turned & Bored.
4 3ft. 4in. Do. Do. Do.
4 2ft. 6in Do. Do. Do.
2 Cast Iron Brays for carrying Top End of crotch Spindles.
8 Bolts, Nuts & Plates for Do. with Men's Time fitting and fixing the same in your Mill for the sum of Seventy Two pounds, ten shillings and sixpence.
£72.10. 6. The Whole of the above shall be made of the best materials & sound workmanship and put to work.
Awaiting your reply,
I remain,
Dr. Sir,
Yours Respy,
Thos Smithdale.

Taverham Paper Mills wanted a hydraulic hoist:
King Street, Norwich,
June 10th 1865.

Messrs. Delane, Magnay & Co,
Gentlemen,
Agreeably to your request I beg to say that I have carefully gone through the matter relative to the cost of the Hydraulic Hoist and find it will be about £70 with Pump and driving Wheel fixed.
£70. 0. 0.
I remain, Gentn.
Your Obedt. Servt,
Thomas Smithdale.

King Street, Norwich,
July 11th 1865.
Repairs required to be done at Lakenham Mills.
First Water Wheel to be lifted and leveled with new Packings for same with New Shroudings & Float Boards, bolts, & Nuts where required with Mens Time to ditto.
New Cast Iron Pit Wheel ring in 6 Segments 14ft. diar, 3? inch Pitch, 9 inches broad on Face and new Patterns for Do. Bolts & Nuts where required with Mens Time fitting & Fixing.
One New Cast Iron Pit Wheel Pinion 3ft 6in diar, with new Pattern to Do, bored and fitted with Mens Time.
1 New Cast Iron Bracket for Breast Gear.
To repair Waste sluice gate with 2 New Pinions, 1 New Rack, new Keys with Mens Time to Do.
To lift & level first motion Counter Shaft, 2 New Gun Metal Bearings bored and fitted with Men's Time.
To lift Upright Shaft, one pair Gun Metal Bearings, One Do. for Toe, regear 5 feet Mortice Wheel & retrim 3 Iron Tooth wheels with Men's Time to same.
To Lift and level 2nd motion Shafting on Ground Floor, repair Keeps at each end, one 22 inch Driving Drum, new dies for Fork Lever, 20 new Brass Bearings for ditto and retrim 1 Pair of 4ft Iron gear Wheels with Mens Time.
To Lift and level Shafting in Mechanic's Rooms, 2 Pairs of New Brasses, retrim geers with Men's Time to ditto.
2 New Grates to Wash house (about 1 Cwt. 2 Qrs.)
To lift & Level Shafting in Spinning room, 7 New Brass Bearings, retrim Wheels & put in new wood coggs where required with Men's Time to same.
Lift and level Shafting in Top Room. one new Brass Bearing, retrim Geers with Men's Time to same.
I am willing to undertake to complete all the repairs mentioned in the enclosed of the best material and workmanship for the sum of One Hundred and thirty nine pounds, eight shillings.
£139. 8. 0.
The price for Cast Iron Perforated Plates for drying Room floor (about 515 feet Super) would be Forty Two Pounds.
£42. 0. 0.
Your Obedt. Servt,
pro Thomas Smithdale,
T. S. Junr.

DIED
On the 2nd inst., aged 66, Mary Ann, wife of Mr. Thomas Smithdale, of St. Ann's Iron Works, King-street, in this city, highly respected by all her friends.
Norfolk Chronicle - 19th May 1866

Thomas Smithdale was listed in White's Directory of 1868 as a boiler maker, engineer/ millwright/machinist and ironfounder at St. Ann's Works, King Street and in Harrod's Directory as an engineer and machinist and millwright at St Ann's Iron Works, King Street.

In 1871 Thomas Smithdale Sr. was given as an iron founder aged 51, employing 65 men and 10 boys, living in King Street, St. Peter Per Mountergate with his wife Eliza (23), and sons William (9) and Arthur (2). Thomas Smithdale Jr. was given as a manager at iron works aged 29, living in Synagogue Street, St. Peter Per Mountergate with his wife Sarah A., (29), and daughters Sarah C. (7); Lilly T. (2), and Alice (8 months).

Thomas Smithdale Sr. and Jr. were both in Court in 1871 charged with assault.
POLICE INTELLIGENCE.
GUILDHALL, NORWICH.
WEDNESDAY.
Before R. CHAMBERLIN, R. W. BLAKE, and J. M. VENNING, Esqs.
Thomas Smithdale, junr., iron-founder, Synagogue-street, St. Faith's-lane, was summoned by John Cooper, labourer, Church-alley, St. Julian, for assaulting him on the 7th inst. - Mr. Linay appeared for the complainant; and Mr. Cooper for the defendant. - From the statement of complainant it appeared that on the above date he got over a wall in Synagogue-street, which led to a yard belonging to Mr. Mills, next to the Hop pole gardens, after his little brother, who was playing with some other boys. After he got over the wall defendant followed him, and asked him what he was doing there, when complainant said "It is my business, not yours." Defendant struck him a violent blow in the eye with his fist. - In cross?examination complainant owned that he said to defendant that he was big enough to have a round with him. He also pulled off his coat and put himself in a fighting attitude. - Mr. Sparrow having addressed the bench on behalf of his client, called the father of the defendant who stated that on Monday evening he saw a number of boys playing in the private road leading to his premises, and he told them if they did not be off he would horse-whip them. They then got over a wall leading to Mr. Mill's yard, after which a stone was thrown by one of the boys, which struck him on the right eye. Defendant then got over the wall after the boys, and when complainant made his appearance in the street again, witness struck him three of four times with a whip, as he made use of very foul language towards him. - A witness named Rackham, timber merchant, Synagogue-street, heard complainant threaten to punch defendant's nose, and call him and old b---. The case was dismissed.

Thomas Smithdale, sen. was summoned by the complainant in the above case for unlawfully striking him with a whip, on the 7th inst. - Mr. Linay again appeared for the complainant and Mr. Sparrow for the defendant. - The facts in this case are similar to those in the above, with the exception of the evidence of a witness named John Maxey, who said that he saw defendant knocking complainant about in a very brutal manner, but in answer to a question from Mr. Sparrow could not say what part of the body complainant was struck. - The case was dismissed.

Thomas Smithdale, sen, was then summoned by Jane Cooper, the mother of the complainant in the above case, for assaulting her on the same evening. - Mr. Linay appeared for the complainant, and Mr. Sparrow for the defendant. - Complainant stated that she went to see Mr. Smithdale about striking her boy, and told him he ought to know better, upon which he said if she did not get out of his way he would serve her the same. He then knocked her down, and while she was on the ground kicked her in the chest, and she became insensible. - The complainant was examined by Mrs. Springfield, female searcher, who said the complainant had a large dark bruise on the right breast, which she did not think was caused by a kick. - Mr. Rackham, timber merchant, stated that he saw complainant go up to defendant and pull his hair; she also tried to pull him down, when she fell to the ground. Witness swore positively that defendant did not kick or strike her, or call her any foul names. - The case was dismissed.
Norfolk Chronicle - 18th August 1871

In 1871, Thomas Smithdale's brother died in China.
DIED.
SMITHDALE, On the 15th October, at Shanghae, China, William Smithdale, aged 47, deeply regretted by a large circle of friends. He was a native of this city.
Norfolk Chronicle - 23rd December 1871

In Her Majesty's Court of Probate.
To Emma Smithdale, late of Norwich, in the County of Norfolk, Widow.
TAKE NOTICE, that a Citation was issued under Seal of Her Majesty's Court of Probate, dated 13th day of April, whereby you are cited to appear within Thirty Days after publication of this Notice, and accept or refuse Letters of Administration of the personal Estate and Effects of WILLIAM SMITHDALE, late of Nankin, in the Empire of China, Ironfounder, deceased, or shew cause why the same should not be granted to THOMAS SMITHDALE, the natural and lawful Brother of the said deceased, with an intimation that in default of your appearance or that of Susan Smithdale, the natural and lawful Mother of the deceased, the Judge of our aforesaid Court or the Registrar of the Principal Registry thereof will proceed to grant such Letters.
H. L. STRONG,
Registrar.
Norfolk Chronicle - 11th May 1872

William Smithdale was born c.1827 in St. Peter Permountergate, Norwich. In 1851 he was given as an ironfounder living with his parents, brother Frances (20), also an ironfounder and sister Mary (23).

SMITHDALES LEDGER
          
 
CAPON. STOKESBY
Days
Hours
lbs.
Rate
£. s. d.
1872
per day
Dec. 10 8 Fly stocks 5 ft. 6" long 3¼ x 3
1 4" Deal x 9. 14 ft. long
6 flicks 5/8 Redwood 19 ft. long
1. 9. 7
11
 1 Fly casting 1238
25
19/-
4. 3
14
 To Fly Vanes 1238 BUCK, I.
5
5/6
3. 1
Man to mill 1238 R. JOHNSON
7
6¾
7/-
2. 14. 3
Man to mill EASTOE
7
6¾
7/-
2. 14. 3
21
 12 5/8 Washers
3
8 9/16 Bolts & Nuts
2. . .
  Man to mill JOHNSON, R
6
4½
7/-
2. 5. 6
  Carriage
1. . .
  To Neck & Tail Brass 1238 Johnson, E.
1
1¼
5/6
6. 3
  Wood 13" 6 x 6 dry oak
  ..........12" 12 x 1½ pine
  Man to mill EASTOE
6
4½
7/-
2. 5. 6
  Carriage
1. . .
14
Train 2 men R. JOHNSON & EASTOE
1. 2
23
 1 Step brass 1269
15¾
1/6
1. 3. 7½
30
 1 Cast Iron Neck 1269 to Stone Spindle  
16
 19/-
2. 8½
1873
        
Jan 4
Work on Boss & Thumbscrew  
6
  
6
3. . .
Time on 1269 BROWNE & HART  
 
10/4
5. 2
Turning to 1269 BAILEY  
7
  
10/-
7. 9
Dec. 28
Boring Step pot 1269 BAILEY
3¼
  
10/-
3. 7
Jan. 4
Help on 1269 PIGGEN Jr.  
½
  
3/6
2. . .
11
 To Bearing for Stone Spindle EASTOE  
1½
  
5/6
10
          __________
£14. 15. 11
__________

POLIC INTELLIGENCE
GUILDHALL, NORWICH.
Before A. F. C. BOLINGBROKE, E. K. HARVEY, W. J. UTTEN BROWNE, and S. REEVE Esqs.
Thomas Smithdale, of St. Ann' Iron Works, was summoned by William A. Palmer, his apprentice, for breach of contract. - Mr. Linay was for complainant, Mr. Sparrow for defendant. - The dispute arose as to payment for Good Friday, when complainant absented himself from work. On his asking to be paid for the day, his master refused. After an altercation between them defendant told him to leave, pushed him out of the office, and told him to keep away. Complainant took him at his word, and had not been to work since. This being so, Mr. REEVE said that complainant had clearly put himself out of Court, and the case was dismissed. - Mr. Sparrow informed the Bench that complainant was a troublesome apprentice, and had made use of bad language on the occasion alluded to.
Norfolk Chronicle - 26th April 1873

To Millowners and Fen Drainers.
To be SOLD CHEAP, A CAST IRON WINDSHAFT, with Neck and Tail Carriages, 4 Cloth Sails, 4 Clamps, and Cap, in good condition, suitable for a Marsh Mill.
Apply to Thomas Smithdale, St. Ann's Iron Works, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 27th September 1873

In 1874, Smithdale's set up a mustard mill, known as the Gothic Mustard Works. Needless to say, this decision did not go down well with Messrs. J. J. Colman & Co.
SMITHDALE'S NORWICH MUSTARD,
GUARANTEED PURE,
AND MANUFACTURED FROM THE FINEST SEED.
TEST its Quality with any other Maker. Purity and flavour second to none. TRADE MARK "BEEHIVE."
To be obtained of all respectable Grocers and Druggists in the Kingdom; and at GOTHIC WORKS, KING STREET, NORWICH.
Analytical Report by FRANCIS SUTTON, F.C.S.: -
"This Mustard consists entirely of White and Brown Mustard Flour, and is therefore Genuine Mustard."
Norfolk Chronicle - 12th September 1874

TO MILLOWNERS AND MILLERS.
TO BE SOLD, a Bargain, a CAST IRON WATER WHEEL, in Three Rings, 14 feet diameter, 10 feet wide, with Shaft and Carriages for ditto. Pit Wheel and Wallower, with Column and Brays for Stone Hurst.
The above equal to new. - For particulars apply to T. Smithdale, St. Ann's Iron Works, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 5th December 1874

In May 1875, Thomas Smithdale rescued a boy from the river:
Rescue of a boy from Drowning. -- On Sunday afternoon Mr. T. Smithdale, sen., of St. Ann's Iron Works, observed a lad named Bullard, living in Thorn-lane, about seven years of age, who was playing by St. Ann's Iron Works, fall into the river. He at once jumped in and brought the lad out, just as he was disappearing beneath a wherry. This is the second time Mr. Smithdale has rescued persons from drowning.
Norfolk Chronicle - 29th May 1875

In November 1875, Thomas Smithdale sued Henry Paddle, a miller of Hoveton for non-payment of an account:
NORWICH COUNTY COURT.
(Before E. P. PRICE, Esq., Q. C., Judge)
THOMAS SMITHDALE v. HENRY PADDLE. - This was an issue from the Court of Queen's Bench, in which an action was brought to recover the sum of £20.13s.6d., the balance of a claim on account rendered. - Mr. Carlos Cooper (instructed by Mr. G. W. G. Barnard, from the office of Mr. E. C. Bailey) was counsel for the plaintiff, a millwright, engineer, &c. in Norwich; and Mr. T. C. Blofield (instructed by Mr. H. B. Miller, of Miller, Son, and Stevens), appeared for the defendant, a miller at Hoveton, who paid £14 odd into Court, contending that that was sufficient to cover his liability. - On looking at the items in the account, his honour suggested that the matter was of a description which might with great propriety be left to some independent practical man; but the plaintiff objected to one or two names which were mentioned, his Honour said that that being so, he had now the power, and would exercise it, of calling to his help a couple of millwrights, who would sit with him at the next Court as assessors, and if they charged ten guineas a day the plaintiff might have to pay it. - The plaintiff said he only wanted what was just and right. - After a good deal of "higgling," it was agreed on both sides to refer the question to Mr. Lefevre, machinist, &c., Prince of Wales'-road, with a request that he should look the work, and that judgement should be entered for what he reported was fair between the parties.
Norfolk Chronicle - 27th November 1875

NORWICH COUNTY COURT.
(Before E. P. PRICE, Esq., Q. C., Judge)
THOMAS SMITHDALE, machinist, Norwich, v. HENRY PADDLE, miller, Hoveton. - This case was an action which came on as an issue from the Court of Queen's Bench, at the November sitting, when Mr. Carlos Cooper appeared as counsel for the plaintiff, and Mr. T. C. Blofield for the defendant. - Deducting a set-off which he admitted defendant had against him, the plaintiff's "clean" demand was £20.13s.6d. for work and labour &c. - after what for a time looked like an insuperable difficulty in finding a referee to investigate the dispute between the litigants, it was mutually agreed to leave the differences to the arbitration of Mr. Lefevre, machinist, Prince of Wales-road, Norwich; and he now reported that, having inquired into the matters referred to him, he found that the plaintiff was entitled to £4.14s.3d., in addition to the sum which the defendant had paid into Court, and for which judgement was entered in his favour accordingly. On the question of costs, Mr. Cooper asked that these should be allowed on the scale of the Superior Court, which Mr. Blofield opposed. His Honour said that he had had hundreds of far more important cases; and as he could not conscientiously say that it was of a nature which rendered it undesirable that it would have been entered in the County Court, he would only certify for costs being granted on the scale in operation here. Mr. E. C. Bailey and Messrs. Miller, Son, and Stevens, were the solicitors concerned.
Norfolk Chronicle - 25th December 1875

In 1877, Smithdale's built a drainage mill and advertised it for sale. The mill is the one known as Breydon North Wall mill.
For sale by Auction at Freethorpe, a Millman's House and Brick Tower, Self-winding Water Mill, recently erected by Messrs. Smithdales, sufficiently powerful to drain 1000 Acres.
Near New Road, Acle Straight.
Norfolk Chronicle - 18th August 1877


ENGINEERING PUPIL. -A Vacancy occurs for a respectable Youth to learn the ENGINEERING and MILLWRIGHTING, including a Term in the Drawing Office. Moderate premium required. - Apply to T. Smithdale & Son, Engineers, St. Ann's Iron Works, King Street, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 15th September 1877

In 1878, Smithdale's exhibited a new Turbine Pump, Engine and Boiler combined at the Agricultural Show in North Walsham and were awarded a Silver Medal.

In October 1878, one of Thomas Smithdale's hens was stolen. However, the thief was caught in the act.
POLICE INTELLIGENCE.
GUILDHALL, NORWICH.
MONDAY.
Before the MAYOR (J. D. Smith, Esq.), W. J. UTTEN BROWNE, T. WELLS and E. K. HARVEY, Esqs.
Henry Charles Baldwin, labourer, King's-road, Lakenham, was charged with stealing a hen, the property of Mr. Thos. Smithdale, engineer, King-street. - Mr. Linay defended. - Police-constable Robert Sidney said he was on duty on Sunday morning in Synagogue-street, at about three o'clock, when he heard footsteps in the street. Witness secreted himself and saw the prisoner go up to Mr. Smithdale's yard door, which he unlocked, and then went into the yard. Witness waited about ten minutes, and saw the prisoner return, and go in the direction of St. Ann's Staithe. He followed him, and on overtaking him asked prisoner for what purpose he had been on Mr. Smithdale's premises. Prisoner replied that he had been feeding his horses. Witness enquired what he had in his pocket and prisoner answered "Nothing." Witness then searched him, and found the hen in his pocket. Prisoner said in reply to a question, that he had bought it in Marlingford. Sidney took him into custody on that statement, and on the way to the police station prisoner said, "I told you a lie when I said I bought it at Marlingford; I bought it from a man on the Hill." - Mr. Smithdale, of St. Ann's Iron Works, said the fowl produced was his property to the best of his belief, and was worth about 2s. 6d. - In answer to Mr. Linay, prosecutor said prisoner had been in his employ about two years. It was his duty to feed the horses at five o'clock in the morning. Witness had missed fowls for about three months past. - William Calf, who objected to taking the oath, but made the declaration, said he fed prosecutor's fowls, and he recognised the one produced as his property because it "wore" ten toes. - In answer to Mr. Linay, witness said it all depended upon the breed as to the number of toes a fowl had. This was a cross between an English "Darkin" and a Bramah - a "mongrel" in fact. (Laughter) - On this evidence the prisoner pleaded guilty, and Mr. Linay having spoken in defence, the Bench sentenced prisoner to three calendar months' imprisonment.
Norfolk Chronicle - 26th October 1878

p. 114

1873
Jan. 17

BURGH C. C. C. (Berney Arms)
(Burgh Castle Cement Company)

No. Order 20
ALEXANDER at B. A.
(workman)
Smithdales Panxworth Ledger

Smithdale's Day Book 1878 - 1880
1879
Aug. 18		 Mr. HORSLEY, Sculthorpe
1 pair of brasses 9 lb.

Smithdale's Day Book 1878 - 80


1878
Mon. Sep. 16 HOCKERING MILL
1 pkt. ¾ Tacks
1 Skein Twine
3 Needles
1 Gal. Paint Oil 		.
.
Wed. Sept. 18 HOCKERING MILL
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
    
24 ft. Run of Weatherboard          
2½ lbs of 2½ in. Gate Nails    
2½
  
1 cwt. of White Lead
1
0
0
  
.1 cwt. of White Lea
Mon. Sept. 23 HOCKERING MILL
Putty    
7
1 Gln. Oil  
4 do
.
.
  
.
Wed. Sept. 25 HOCKERING MILL
White Lead
1
0
0
.
Mon.. Sept. 30 HOCKERING MILL
4 Glns. Boiled Oil      
6 pts. Turps
.
.
  
.
Sat. Oct. 5 Mr. Howard HOCKERING MILL
2 doz. Levers & 1 doz. Plates
0
0
16
.
Mon. Oct. 7 HOCKERING MILL
1¼ Clout Nails
0
0
2
           
Sat. Oct. 19          
2½ lbs. Black paint (ex Marlingford)

Sat.Oct. 26 HEMPTON MILL
1 10" Flat Saw file .
.
Mon. Oct. 28 R. LEAMON's Exors. HEMPTON MILL
Carriage of Stocks etc.
For Binham . . . 6s. 7d.
. HOCKERING MILL
2 st. White Lead
2 gals. Paint Oil
 
R. LEAMON's Exors. HEMPTON MILL
4 Gals. Paint Oil      
.
Tues. Oct. 29 R. LEAMON's Exors. HEMPTON MILL
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
White Lead
2
0
6
6 Pts. Turps  
Putty
.
.
14
.
Thurs. Oct. 31 Exors. of R. LEAMON Esq. HEMPTON
.2 doz. each Levers
0
1
14
right & left  
.
Sat. Nov. 2 Exors. of R. LEMMON
3" Wrt. Nails
0
0
4
2" Cvut Nails
.
.
2
2" Brads
.
.
1
2 doz. 3" screws cut  
1 doz. Sail Bolts 3½ long
.
.
2½
1 Gross 2" Screws No. 14
.
.
.
¼ St. 4" Cut Nails
.
.
3½
.
Fri. Nov. 8 HEMPTON MILL
Cr. Old Cast Iron
1
3
0
.
. Exors. R. LEMMON
Old Brass
0
1
8
.
Mon. Nov. 11 HEMPTON MILL
½ Gal. Parafin Oil  
½ Gal. Mustard "  
.
Tues. Nov. 12 Exors. R. LEMMON
1 Neck bearing & block
0
3
23
1 Tail end
9
1
0
.
Wed. Nov. 13 HEMPTON MILL
1 Tail Brass
0
0
 12½
1 Thrust " . . 15 - 2oz.
.
. Exors. R. LEMMON
1 Step Pot & Cap
0
3
10
6 Travellers & frame
2
0
18
.
. Exors. R. LEMMON
1 Neck Brass
0
1
9
1 small Brass for thrust plate )
.
.
1 pr. Brass Striking Rods )
.
.
1 Thrust " )
0
6½
.
Thurs. Nov. 14 Exors. R. LEMMON
1 14" Rough Sq. file .
.
Fri. Nov. 15 Exors. R. LEMMON
5 Bracketts
3
2
19
.
. HEMPTON MILL
2" Brads . .
2¾
.
. Exors. R. LEMMON
2 doz. ½" Coach Screws 3" long 0
0
8½
18 5/8 4½ .
.
5½
5/8 6 .
.
9½
.
Wed. Nov. 20 Exors. R. LEMMON
2 Bracketts
1
1
24
3 ditto
1
3
4
.
Thurs. Nov. 21 Exors. R. LEMMON
10 Boy Posts
3
1
4
.
Exors. R. LEMMON
1 Fly Boss cover
0
1
19
20 Washers  
   
1879  
   
13 Jan. Mr. Howard HOCKERING MILL
Windshaft  
1 12 inch rough file  

Smithdale's Day Book 1878 - 80


1878
Mon. Aug. 26 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
    
Putty    
14
    
1 Putty Knife        
1 Hook        
.
Tues. Sept. 3 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
4 pr. Window Frames
0
3
20
    
2½ lbs of 2½ in. Gate Nails    
2½
  
1 cwt. of White Lead
1
0
0
  
 
Thurs. Sept. 5 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 Gall. Paint Oil      
.
Mon. Sept. 9 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
½ Gal. Turps      
.4 Glns. Paint Oil
 
Tues. Sept. 10 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
6 prs. Window Frames      
.
Thurs. Sept. 12 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 12in. Rough File      
20ft. of 3 x 11 red Deal      
11 ft. of 5 x 4      
2lbs Russian Tallow      
1 Pint Oil Mach.      
2½ lbs. Black paint      
1 Worm & Worm Wheel
0
3
4
2 Yards Sail Cloth      
7ft. x 1' 6 in. of 3 in. Oak Plank      
.
Fri.. Sept. 13 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 Worm & Worm Wheel
0
3
4
           
Cr. 1 Wheel
0
1
21
    
.
Wed. Sept. 18 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Cr. 1 cwt. White Lead          
.1 cwt. of White Lea
Sat. Sept. 21 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 Bundle Nails, 3, 4 &5 flat pnts
3" Gate Nails 		   
5
7
.
Mon. Sept. 23 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 Pitch pine Stock 60 ft.      
ex W & W 91½ ft.    
1
2 pieces ¼ rod
2 pieces Sheet Lead 11 ft. 6" x 6"
 
Tues. Sept. 24 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 gross ½ Coach Nails      
.
Mon. Sept. 30 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 gross 1" screws      
1 gross ¾" ditto      
 
Wed. Oct. 2 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 piece Secondhand Oak
5 ft. x 12" x 5" 		       
1 piece Oak 6 ft. x 15 x 1          
.
Fri. Oct. 4 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
White Lead
1
0
0
    
1 Gal. Boiled Oil
½ gal. Turps
Putty
 
Sat. Oct. 5 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Carriage of Stock to Mill    
15s.
.
Mon. Oct. 7 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
3 Sailbolts .      
1 Gal. Boiled Oil      
 
Sat. Oct. 12 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
3 Gals. Paint Oil      
.
Tues. Oct. 15 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1 doz. No.12 2½" screws      
6 ft. 2" x 1¼ x 1½ (2 Hornbeam Ribs)    
3 doz. 1½" screws
4 ft. x 12" sq. Red Deal
1 doz. ¾ screws
 
Sat. Oct. 19 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
1½ lbs. Black Paint
        
2 st. White Lead
2 gals.Paint Oil
 

.Mon. Oct. 28

 MARLINGFORD WINDMILLL
1½ lbs. Mixed Nails
0
0
1½
    
 
Sat. Oct. 5 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Cr. 1 Cast Iron
1
1
0
  
.2 St. White Lead
2 Gals. Paint Oil
 
Thurs. Oct. 31 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Spirits of Salts      
2 Sticks Solder      
 
Mon. Nov. 4 MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Mixed Nails      
.
1879
 
May. 20 Mr. Cadderwold MARLINGFORD WINDMILL
Nails & wedges. files      

Smithdale's Day Book 1878 - 80


1878
Mon. Sep. 2 BERNEY ARMS MILL
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
    
1 Lock    
   
1 pr Joints        
2 Guy Ropes        
.
Fri. Sep. 6 BERNEY ARMS MILL
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
    
1 doz. Coach screws    
2¾
    
6 Sail Bolts    
1
  
2 doz. ½ in. washers    
½
  
1 Gall. Linseed Oil      
 
Mon. Sept. 9 BERNEY ARMS MILL
1 5/8 Bolt    
½ lb
From Stores
 
Fri. Sept. 20 BERNEY ARMS MILL
Canvas      
3s.
.
Tues. Sept. 24 BERNEY ARMS MILL
Marshman's time assisting Millwright
5s.
.
Wed. Sept. 25 BERNEY ARMS MILL
Cr. by Old Lead    
2½ lb
Putty     17    

White Lead

 0 0 0    
.
Tues Oct. 15 T. T. BERNEY, Esq.BERNEY ARMS MILL
8 ft. ¾ Weatherboard

   
9 2½" Screws
 
Fri. Oct. 17 BERNEY ARMS MILL
2 Castings
0
1
19
 

Smithdale's Day Book 1878 - 1880
1878
Wed. Nov. 6
1 Red Deal 7 ft. x 9" x 3" 		Mr. DANIELS. THRIGBY  
   
 

1 Wheel, 1 Barrell
1 Spindle & 1 Handle

£1. 10s.
Cwt.
0
qrs.
2
lbs.
18

Thurs. Nov. 7
Mr. DANIELS. THRIGBY 		 
(File, various items of wood, nails & bolts)  
 

Smithdale's Day Book 1882
May 22 STRUMPSHAW MILL Mr. HOLMES
 
Cwt.
qrs.
lbs.
    
Stone spindle  
3
0
9s.
  
.
June 2 STRUMPSHAW MILL
1 stone box
1
15
4s.
7½d
1 ring for ditto
4
6d.
 
June 5 STRUMPSHAW MILL
2 wall plates    
Tye bars & plates
 
June 8 STRUMPSHAW MILL
1 chimney ring      


Smithdale's Panxworth Ledger
T. W. DANIEL, Thrigby Hall
   
 
1882 Xmas To a/c rend. Thrigby Farm
1882 Xmas Trigby Drainage Mill
1882 Xmas Stokesby Drainage Mill
1882 Xmas Stokesby Farm a/c
1881 Xmas Thrigby Flour Mill
1882 Xmas Thrigby Flour Mill
£9.
2. 14.
3.
2.
10.
----
43.
----
10.

13.
17.
16.
17.
----
15.
----
8
8
7
6
2
0
--
7
--

Smithdale's Day Book No. 22
1887
11 August
To regear stone nuts
T. W. DANIEL, THRIGBY MILL

Smithdale's Order Book 1886 - 1888
1887
18 Oct.
1 stud to water tap
DANIELS. THRIGBY MILL

Smithdale's Day Book No. 21
1888
5 May
To regearing Crown Wheel with 48 new Apple tree coggs
To turning bearings in sack tackle shafting
and 1 new loose collar
To turniung bearings in Flour Mill counter and 1 new collar shrunk on spindle
To 4 new Pair of gun metal Brasses 7 lbs
1 new Pair of shackles 4¼" square 1" x ¼
4 lbs cast nails
2 ft. of oak 4" x 3"
4 ft. of deal 9" x 3"
1 new straining gate
4 ft. x 2 ft. x 4" x 3"
1 new 3/8" x 2 ft. bolt
Man's time at Mill
See time books

PRESS BROS. UPTON FLOUR MILL

Smithdale's Day Book No. 22
1888
5 May
1 new straining gate to Flour Mill counter shaft
4 new Pair of Brasses bored and fixed
MR. RIX, UPTON MILL

Smithdale's Day Book No. 22
1889
25 Jan
1 new mace cast and fitted
1 new step Pot bored to toe
Men to mill and 1 new stone tracer
MR. RIX, UPTON MILL

Smithdale's Day Book
1889
21 June
To cutting and welding Power rod
2 new 5/8" x 13" Bolts
Nuts and Plates
Man's Time
UPTON FLOUR MILL

Smithdale's Day Book
1889
25 July
rep. UPTON MILL
2 new sedgements and rep. wood curb

26 July
For UPTON MILL
2 sagments


£5



2 qrs. 8 lbs
MR. RIX, LINGWOOD

Smithdale's Day Book
1889
.. Sept
Man to Mill to Curb
1 doz. 5/8" Bolts
2 segmants
1 curb do
1 ... plate etc.
UPTON FLOUR MILL

PANXWORTH IRON WORKS,
Blofield.
10.8.89

re UPTON Wind Mill
Spencer Rix, Esq.
Dear Sir,
Having completed the repairs to the Mill Curb so far as your last order authorised. In examining the remaining portion of segments I find them all broken but one: Caused by the unsound condition of the wood curb underneath. I also find the end of one sheertree and weatherbeam that should be attached together completely rotted off. In fact the entire Cap is in a very dangerous state and liable top be carried off in a heavy wind. These repairs can not be done only by takjing off the stocks, sails and cap.
Yours obediently,
THOS. SMITHDALE,
A. E. S.
Smithdales. Panxworth Time Book - 1888-1890

Thomas Smithdale & Son were listed in Hamilton's Directory of 1879 as engineer, iron & brass founders, millwrights, boiler makers and machinists at St. Ann's Iron Works and at Panxworth. Thomas Smithdale is also listed as a genuine mustard manufacturer at the Gothic Works, King Street. Thomas Smithdale Jr. is listed as residing at 3, St. Faith's Terrace, St. Faith's Lane.

ON SATURDAY NEXT,
PANXWORTH IRON WORKS,
NORFOLK,
About Eight Miles from Norwich and Eleven from Yarmouth.
To Engineers, Foundrymen, Agricultural Implement Makers, and Others,
GEO. STOCKINGS is instructed by Mr. T. SMITHDALE to Sell by Auction, At the Royal Hotel, Norwich, on Saturday, July 5th, 1879, at One for Two o'clock in the Afternoon, in One Lot, the above valuable
FREEHOLD ESTATE
Comprising a Block of well-arranged and substantially-erected BUILDINGS, consisting of a Warehouse, Turning and Fitting Shop, Foundry (with Pattern-loft over), a Smith's Shop, with Two Forges, Coal-shed, Two Stables (with Carpenter's Shop over), a Workman's Cottage, and substantially-built RESIDENCE, containing entrance-hall, front sitting room, office, kitchen, wash-house, pantry, six bedrooms, and gardens, situated fronting the road from Salhouse and Blofield to South Walsham, and in the occupation of the Proprietor.
The Whole Property is well-built, in excellent repair, and from its eligible situation for easy carriage by water or rail (being within One mile of Ranworth Staithe, and Three Miles of Salhouse Station), is adapted for carrying on an extensive Business.
Early possession may be obtained.
Further particulars and Conditions of Sale may be obtained of Messrs. Bailey, Cross, and Barnard, Solicitors, Surrey Street; and of the Auctioneer, Orford Hill, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 28th June 1879

1880
Thurs. 5 Jan.
NICHOLSON, Miller, Horning
6 Bill Drifts
by Thurgate, "Waggon & Horses"
Smithdale's Day Book 1876/80

In 1881, Thomas Smithdale Sr. was given as living in St. Anns House, King Street, St. Peter Mountergate with wife Eliza (38), sons Arthur (12); Harry (6); Charley (4), and Walter (1), along with daughters Edith (14), and Susan (3). Henry Smithdale was given as an Iron Moulder aged 34 living in Green Lane, St. George's Colegate with his wife Eliza (32), sons James (12), and George F. (7) and daughter Eliza (9). William Smithdale was given as an Iron Moulder aged 25 living at 19 Regent St., St. Stephen's, with his wife Elizabeth M., (22); also given that year was Elizabeth Smithdale (23), daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Hook. She was given as a foundryman's wife and was then living with her parents, in Mariners La., St. Ethelred. Alfred Smithdale was given as lodging at 4 Kennet Wharf, London, Middx, also there was Edward Johnson. It is probable that they were working away on a job at the time of the census.

There was an accident at the foundry in September 1882 as a result of which an employee lost his life.
The late Accident at an Iron Foundry.
The City Coroner (E. S. BIGNOLD Esq.) held an inquest at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital on Monday, on the body of Geo. Dye, 48, a foundryman, lately in the employ of Messrs. Smithdale, King-street, who died at the institution on Friday from injuries which he received while at work on the 6th inst. - The jury having viewed the body, the following evidence was taken: - Edward Howard, latheman at Messrs. Smithdale's foundry, said he had known deceased as a fellow-workman for about five months. On Wednesday, 6th inst., at about ten o'clock in the morning, deceased and himself were at work in the turning-shop. Dye had occasion to go up a ladder and for the purpose of placing a connecting strap upon the shaft and an emery wheel. When ascending the ladder deceased undid the strap and allowed it to rest upon the revolving shaft, and on reaching another stave of the ladder placed his hand on the shaft. His hand was caught by a strap and drawn over the shaft, and deceased was thrown completely over it also. The machinery was displaced, and the deceased's hand flew out of the strap, and he fell down onto the bricks below, a distance of about nine feet. As soon as witness saw him drawn in he called out to the engine driver to stop the engine, which was done as soon as possible. the stopping of the engine, however, made no difference, for the accident occurred and was over in a moment, and deceased had fallen away from the shaft after the first revolution. Deceased was at once put into a cab and taken to hospital. Two other men were at work in the same room and saw part of the accident, but witness was the only one who saw how it occurred. Deceased had called him just before to help put on the strap. - By the foreman (Mr. Foad.) He had seen deceased connect the shaft with the emery-wheel on a previous occasion. - Mr. Thomas Smithdale, jun., one of the proprietors of St. Ann's foundry, said deceased had been in his employ about nine months. He had not the least reason to think that deceased was intoxicated at the time of the accident. The deceased had occasion on the morning in question to take the "rough" from off a bolt, and his strict duty would to have been to have used a file, but he probably thought that it would more quickly and easily done by the emery-wheel. Witness considered the matter purely accidental, and no blame was to be attached to any one. Neither deceased or any other man should have endeavoured to connect the strap with the shaft while in motion; on the contrary, they were all cautioned not to do so. - By a Juror: The deceased worked at a planing machine, and had been acquainted with machinery all his life. - Mr. D. D. Day, house surgeon at the Hospital, deposed that the deceased was brought in on the 6th inst., suffering from injuries to his arm and both knees. The right arm was very much crushed, and from the effect of such injuries, the deceased died about mid-day on Friday last. He was quite conscious and able to speak, but never blamed any person as contributing to the accident. Deceased spoke of it as an accident, and said something about working with his left hand instead of his right. - Joseph Seago, another workman in the employ of the firm, stated that it was a general rule, with which all the workmen were acquainted in engineering establishments, that connecting straps are not to be placed on shafts while in motion. As a fact, they often connected the straps with the shaft while the shaft was in a very slow motion. When a workman wanted to affix a strap he had only to apply to the engine driver to stop the shaft, and it would be done immediately. Witness believed workmen did sometimes run the risk of connecting the strap when the shaft was at full speed, but they did this at their own risk, and contrary to all rule. The deceased, he was sure, was not intoxicated. - By the Foreman: - There was a printed rule in the establishment, cautioning the men not to place the straps while the shafts were in motion. - Susannah Dye, widow of the deceased, deposed that her husband was 48 years of age last December. She had no reason to think that the injuries from which he died were purely accidental. - The jury on the evidence returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."
Norfolk Chronicle - 23rd September 1882

Smithdale & Sons were listed in Eyre's Directory of 1883 as ironfounders &c. in Synagogue Street.

ST. ANN'S IRON WORKS,
TO BE SOLD, by Private Contract, the large Freehold PREMISES, King Street, Norwich, with Frontage to the River.
Apply to Mr. Alfred Kent, Solicitor, St. Andrew's, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 28th July 1883

In September 1883 , the Panxworth iron works were again for auction. However, the premises were not sold and were re-advertised in October 1883.
PEREMPTORY SALE
PANXWORTH IRON WORKS,
NORFOLK,
One Mile from Ranworth, and about Three Miles from Brundall, Acle, and Salhouse Railway Stations.
TO ENGINEERS, FOUNDRYMEN, AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT MAKERS, AND OTHERS, STOCKINGS & MILLS, are instructed to Sell by Auction, without reserve, on Friday, October 19th, 1883, all the
VALUABLE MACHINERY,
FOUNDRY PLANT, AND AGRICULTURAL
IMPLEMENTS
Comprising a six-horse-power engine on strong iron carriage wheels, by Ransome and Sims; a very strong wall drilling machine with over-head motion, will admit 16 inches spindle rise and fall, 20-inch table rise by rack, and adapted for hand power. 8-inch centre cam round slide and surfacing lathe, with 16ft. 6in straight bed and over-head motion, 10 inch centre screw cutting lather with 8ft. gap bed, hand rest, set of change wheels, 2 face plates, and catch plates, 4 claw chuck and overhead motion. 3 horse power vertical boiler, with cross stay tube and 12ft. chimney, a pair of angular 3-horse power engines with massive fly?wheel, small horizontal engine, by Blyth of Yarmouth, an excellent planing machine to plane 6ft. x 2ft. x 2ft. 6in., by Buckton of Leeds, capital punching and shearing machine, will admit 6 inches of jaws, with punches and dies, by Smithdale, good 5ft. by 2ft. 3in. circular saw bench with fast and loose pullies, &c., by Smithdale, lengths 40ft. 2? - 24ft. 1¾ and other shafting, with couplings, drums, brackets, and plummer blocks complete, excellent mill tackle with overhead shaft, plummer blocks, &c., complete with a powerful foundry crane, with 18ft. jib, with double purchase gearing, chains, pulleys, and box bar, 8ft. circular tank and force pump; all the valuable Foundry Plant, consisting of 120 moulding boxes, core boxes, coal mill, ladles, 5 tons of black and loam sand, Smith's Stock, consisting of 2 pairs of bellows, forge troughs, anvils, bottom and top tools, old and new shoes, together with all the valuable castings, patterns, Agricultural Implements, consisting of new chaff engines, horse works, root pulpers, oat crusher horse boxes, &c., and about 10 tons of old iron, timber; and also the
HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE
And other Effects.
Catalogues may be had at the Offices of the Auctioneers, Orford Hill, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 6th October 1883

"ST. ANN'S IRON WORKS,"
KING STREET, NORWICH.
TO MANUFACTURERS, SAW MILL PROPRIETORS,
CORN AND COAL MERCHANTS, AND OTHERS.
STOCKINGS AND MILLS have received instruction from the Mortgagees, to Sell by Auction, at the Royal Hotel, Norwich, on Tuesday. April 8th, 1884, at Six for Seven o'clock in the Evening, in Three Lots, the substantial and well-built Brick and Tiled FREEHOLD PREMISES, lately forming a part of the
"ST. ANN'S IRON WORKS."
Lot 1. - The extensive Block of BUILDINGS, having important frontages of 45ft. 2in. to the Private Staithe, and an average depth of 90 feet.
Lot 2. - The substantially-built BUILDING, with two floors having a frontage of 41ft. 9in to St. Ann's Staithe, very suitable for Granaries.
Lot 3. - The Brick and Tiled BUILDING, having a frontage of 31ft. 6in. to St. Ann's Staithe, and a frontage to the river, very suitable for a Coal Merchant.
Immediate Possession will be given.
Further Particulars and Conditions of Sale may be obtained of the Auctioneers, Orford Hill; and of Messrs. BAILEY, CROSS, & BARNARD,
Surrey Street, Norwich,
Vendor's Solicitors.
"ST. ANN'S IRON WORKS,"
KING STREET, NORWICH,
TO ENGINEERS, FOUNDRYMEN, AGRICULTURAL
IMPLEMENT MAKERS, AND OTHERS.
STOCKINGS & MILLS have received instructions from the Mortgagees to Sell by Auction, without reserve, on the Premises, on Tuesday, April 8, 1884,
The Valuable MACHINERY, comprising a powerful Pillar Drilling Machine, set of Boiler-plate Bending Rolls, Punching and Shearing Machine, with 1-foor shears, to shear plates 11 inches deep, powerful Smith's Crane, 5 Iron Forges, 5 pairs 12?arm Iron Racks, Vices, and other Effects.
Sale to commence at 11 for 11.30 a.m. punctually.
Catalogues may be obtained at the Offices of the Auctioneers, Orford Hill, Norwich.
Norfolk Chronicle - 22nd March 1884

In 1885, Thomas Smithdale was a witness in a Court case against Robert Holmes, coal merchant, who was charged with having deficient scales. Thomas Smithdale was employed to check and adjust the scales. The case was dismissed.

1888
31 May
FOSDICK STOKESBY
2 Wall plates. One Wheel box
Smithdale Order Book - 1886 -1888

Thomas Smithdale & Son were listed in White's Directory of 1887 as engineers, millwrights, iron & brass founders, boilermakers & manufacturers of turbine pumps &c. St. Ann's Iron Works, Synagogue Street. Thomas Smithdale was listed as living in Panxworth and Thomas Smithdale Jr. was listed as living in Mountergate Street.

The firm moved to Acle, Norfolk in 1897. A branch office was opened in Huntingdon, Huntingdonshire in 1900. They traded until 1974, when all the plant and effects were sold by auction on the premises on the 17th April of that year.

While researching family history, I discovered that Elvin Spencer Bulley was an employee at Smithdale & Sons, Acle before enlisting in 1915, and subsequently, becoming a war casualty.

18164 Lance Corporal Bulley, 9th (Service) Battalion Norfolk Regiment who died on Sunday 17th September 1916, aged 32 years. He had lived in Acle for nine or ten years before enlisting and worked as a moulder at Smithdale's foundry. He was captain of Acle Football Club and a member of the Bowling Club. At the time of his death his brother was fighting beside him in the same trench and was wounded a few hours earlier. He is buried in the Guillemont Road Cemetery on The Somme.
Pat Bulley - 18th November 2008


The Breydon North Wall mill still stands; work having been done to stop it deteriorating and it retains most of the machinery.

Smithdale family tree
Smithdale Family Tree - donated by Mark Abel, Denver towermill - 26th February 2011

I came across your site after searching for Smithdale mustard. It has long been family folklore that my mother's family once owned a mustard mill and I was glad to find it referenced here. The story goes that Colman offered Thomas Smithdale a partnership in mustard making but the old man refused. Had he decided otherwise my family may have been much richer!
My mother was the daughter of Blanche Smithdale who married a Thomas Levell. Blanche was sickly person and may indeed have been diabetic, a condition that has come down the line to me. Consequently my mother spent much of her time in the care of Gladys and Ethel Smithdale. I remember visits to Aunt Gladys at the Acle forge from my childhood. Aunt Ethel had married and moved to Caister where she and her husband made a fortune in the blossoming holiday camp market. Visits to Aunt Ethel's were accompanied by warnings of 'best behaviour... or else'. I also remember visiting Aunt Daisy who had married a market gardener. (These were my mother's aunts; to me of course they were great aunts.)
On one such visit, I met my mother's cousin Harold and my mother made great play of the fact that we both sported the 'Smithdale Conk'... what I may describe as a handsomely protuding nose, but may be described perhaps less favourably by others! It is apparently a family characteristic.
I know not if any of this is pertinent to you, but I can add to the Blanche line of the family tree.
Blanche Smithdale and Thomas Levell had only my mother Margaret Levell, though she was the surviving baby of a set of twins. Margaret married a Denis (sic) Clarke from Norwich. They had three children: Theresa, Patricia and Anthony (me, the youngest).
I gather incidentally that the Norfolk Rural Life Museum at Dereham has the main forge and many implements from the Acle forge.
Anthony S. Clarke - 17th September 2011

Just been doing a bit of extended research on my "family". My Grandfathers older brother Frederick James Rutledge married 3 times. His second wife was Daisy (Daisie) Grace Smithdale. Found she was one of at least 11 children born to Thomas Smithdale and Eliza Jane Wymer as on you internet tree. Daisie and Frederick had 2 children, Gerald 1909 and Donald 1912 . It appears Gerald married Stella Morgan and had Gordon 1939 and Olwen 1940. Cannot find any futher info on Donald. I tried to contact the offspring of the "Rutledge " side of the family, writing letters etc but never having any replies. The fact that the Smithdales had a thriving Empire in Norfolk, reminds me of another branch of my ancestors who were Agricultural Iron Manufacturers in Rothwell Northants!
Also noticed that Thomas Smithdale was married before Eliza, to Mary Ann Tucker and had at least 5 children. I think the Smithdales populated that area of Norfolk!!
Anne Rutledge - 23rd January 2016

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