Saturday 29 December 2012

17th July 1765

Two pounds of parmivity Candles half burnt 2/-

5 bottles of Kedleston Water 10d

How frugal of Thomas to buy part used candles.  He is really rather wealthy for such thrift! I've no idea what "parmivity" means or whether that is actually the word Thomas means.

Kedleston Water is mentioned in

The history of the county of Derby, Part 1

 By Stephen Glover, published in 1829

which has this to say about the stuff

"The most in repute of the sulphureous waters of Derbyshire rises in the park of Lord Scarsdale, at Kedleston. In a glass it looks very clear and transparent; but in the well, it appears of a blackish blue colour, tinged with purple; and any substance thrown into it, assumes the same appearance. That it is impregnated with sulphur, in some state or form, is not only evident from its strong taste and smell, but likewise from its changing silver to a dark copper colour : and in its passage from the well, a whitish sediment is deposited, which has the appearance of sulphur. That it is also impregnated with other substances, is proved by the experiments of Dr. Short, who observes, that eight pints evaporated, left two scruples of sediment, twenty-one grains of which were a dark brownish earth, and the rest salt : in these respects it appears similar to the water at Harrogate. Kedleston water is principally valued for its anti-scorbutic qualities. When taken inwardly, it acts as a diuretic, and has given relief to persons afflicted with the gravel. It has also been found efficacious, from external application, in various cutaneous diseases, but more especially in ulcerous complaints. In the summer it is frequently used by the inhabitants of Derby as a substitute for malt liquor, at their meals : the charge of car riage (one penny per quart) affording sustenance to a few poor people of the neighbourhood. The temperature of the spring is about forty-seven degrees. Several other sulphureous springs rise in different parts of the county, but have hitherto undergone very little examination."

"Anti-scorbutic" means that it cures/prevents scurvy.  I can't see how it would!

3rd June 1765

Monday.  Miss Biggsby was married to Mr Thos Smith Notts


Not a fascinating entry unless you are descended from Miss Biggsby & Mr Smith

I've put it in for that family historian who will find it with joy!