Henry Peacock

The Henry Peacock Pub is now closed and up for sale, but originally was a thriving public house situated next to the railway line in Starbeck (halfway between Harrogate and Knaresborough).

It was named after after Henry Peacock in the 19th Century when he was master of the local workhouse across the road, hence the weary figures in the background waiting for their bowl of gruel.

Henry and his wife came to Starbeck in 1825 to run the workhouse. Sadly his wife died two years later. Henry married the following year to Jane Dodd who just happened to have £150 in the bank. Within 3 months the money was in Henry’s account and spent within two years.

Apparently Henry was a very interesting character, drifting in and out of poverty of his life, but at the same time very compassionate towards the people in his charge. He died in 1877, ironically alone in the Richmond workhouse.

If you feel like reading more about him try here.

Just to say many, many thanks for the comments of yesterday, made the spotlight too!