July 27. — The keelmen of the river Tyne refused to work, and would let no keel pass down the river, in consequence of the fitters loading the coals with ten chaldrons of coals, instead of eight which was the statue measure. They were in such a state of insubordination, that the riot act was read by order of Ralph Sowerby, esq., mayor of Newcastle, and four companies of soldiers were sent to Sandgate to keep the peace. During this affray, Walter Blackett, esq., M.P., and alderman of Newcastle, (afterwards Sir Walter Blackett, bart.), received a cut on the head by a keelman. Matters in dispute were at length adjusted, and the keelmen resumed their labours. [LRS]

 

 

• LRS — Local Records or Historical Register of Remarkable Events by John Sykes, Published in 1833 in two volumes