Poaching and Petty Thieving in St Albans

A Talk by Chris Reynolds

The Stratton Family

After game in 1858

William Stratton, of St Albans, was charged with trespassing in search of game on lands in the occupation of Mr Henry Edwards, the Shafford Estate, in the parish of St Michael, the property of H. H. Toulmin, Esq.

Thomas Blain, the woodman, proved the offence. Defendant was ordered to pay fine of £1, with 18s costs, and in default of payment was committed to goal for one month with hard labour.

H. H. Toulmin retired from the bench during the hearing of this case.

Herts Advertiser 8th May 1858

[Most press reports of minor cases at this date were brief.]