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151
A new engine and escape ladders were shortly afterwards
provided, and instructions given for the inspection of the
same from time to time by the Churchwardens. Improvements
and additions were made to the system by virtue of
statutory powers at the commencement of the next
century (6 Anne, cap. 31, 1708). Stop blocks and firecocks
were introduced, and with them a special Fire Rate
to defray the expenses of the increased service. The
arrangements are set forth in the minutes thus:—
Wednesday, 3rd August, 1709. The Vestry took into consideration
the Act of Parliament for making more Effectual an Act made
in the sixth year of the Reigne of her p'sent Majty Queen Anne
For the better preventing of mischiefs that may happen by
Fire And finding thereby that severall Engines, Stop Blocks,
Fire Cocks, Keyes and other Implements and materials are
directed by the said Act to be prepared, and upon perusal of
an Estimate of the charge of the sd severall things laid before
this Vestrv as follows Vizt:—
An Estimate of the charge of the Fire pluggs &c.
£
s.
d.
For a Hand Engine
16
0
0
For three brass socketts or fire cocks with three
brass screws for the pipes
20
0
0
For one hundred and four yards of Leather pipe
for the Engine at Five shillings per yard
26
0
0
For one hundred and sixty Fire pluggs with the
iron work thereto belonging at six shillings
each
48
0
0
For one hundred and sixty paintings
10
0
0
For Iron, Crows, Tubbs, and Implements
10
0
0
Totall
£130
0
0
Collecting. Sallary to the Engine keeper. Rewards
to the Engine keepers & turn cocks. Accidental
repairs of the Engines, pipes, & other incident
charge thereto belonging.
It is Agreed by this Vestry that the sume necessary to be Rais'd
for Defraying the charge of the things before menconed be One
hundred & seaventy pounds. And Whereas the said Act of
Parliamt has directed such sume & sumes of mony as shall be
requisite & necessary for the Ends aforesaid, to be rais'd in
such manner as by Law they may doe for the maintenance &
Reliefe of the Poor.
Resolved That a Rate be made accordingly upon the inhabitants