Monthly Archives: January 2011

Smoaker Miles: Phantasmagoria, Swimming with Dr Johnson and other stories

John ‘Smoaker’ Miles (1721-94) In Georgian Brighton, sea bathing was a highly regulated affair, with men and women separated to different times and locations and to protect modesty further, compelled to use bathing machines. These were wooden structures where bathers … Continue reading

Posted in Churchyard, Missing Monuments, Royal connection | Leave a comment

Stanley Stokes and the Lynch Mob – East Street 1836

Stanley Stokes, a legal clerk from London, made frequent short trips to Brighton, always lodging in the same boarding house at 64 Ship Street. During his final visit (Saturday May 21st 1836) he was accused of making ‘improper approaches’ to … Continue reading

Posted in Missing Monuments | Leave a comment

Captain Custard and the Northern Extension

The northern extension to St Nicholas Ground (which now includes the popular children’s playground) received its first occupant in 1825, having been formally consecrated by the Bishop of Chichester the year previous. From the Brighton Gazette July 1824: ‘The Bishop of … Continue reading

Posted in Childrens Playground, Northern Burial Ground | Leave a comment