Powys Digital History Project

Care of the poor 5
John Hamer of Rhayader
An appeal for out relief
In 1836 one John Hamer of Rhayader fell into difficult circumstances and appealed to the Rhayader Union for financial help. The following extract from the Board of Guardians Minute Book records the appeal.
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R/G/C/8/1/1		 extract from Minute Book
  The entry reads:-
"Ordered - That the Overseer of the Borough of Rhayader be directed to pay the sum of 2/6d [2 shillings and 6 pence] a week towards the support of John Hamer pauper of this Borough and 3 children until further directions. An order was accordingly signed."
  In January 1837 however the Union issued a harsh judgement which changed things for John Hamer and his family for the worse.
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R/G/C/8/1/1		 extract from Minute Book 
  This entry from the Minute Book reads:-
"From the reports of the Overseers of Rhayader it appeared that John Hamer a pauper is possessed of the following goods over and above what is necessary for his uses. In the King's Head in Rhayader: nine chairs (Turners) in the Overseers estimation of the value of 2/6d each; one bench and table of the supposed value of 2/6. In his house over and above what appears necessary. Two tables worth about 15/-. One cross saw worth about 5/- together with sundry other articles. It was then ordered that the sum of 4/6 a week be heretofore allowed be discontinued untill the said goods be disposed of and the proceeds properly applied".
  One cannot help but wonder just how empty the house was before the Overseers were satisfied and restored the 4/6d weekly relief. 
  There are 19 pages on Care of the Poor. Use the box links below to view the other pages