WILLIAM STOKES

THE LATE MR. WILLIAM STOKES

Yesterday Mr. William Stokes, of St. John's Road, was laid to rest in the Newbury Cemetery. He was a somewhat remarkable man. Born and brought up in Somersetshire he removed to Newbury In middle life, and was for quarter of century in the employ of Mr. W G. Adey as carpenter and wheelwright.

The deceased was however better known as a water finder, and was employed by many gentlemen around Newbury; he claims to have never failed; indeed a number of striking successes on his part are on record. He disclaimed all knowledge of the origin of his powers, or control over his nerves in the presence of springs. He laid much stress upon the formation of his head, and was accustomed to state that many years ago a Somersetshire diviner selected him as a likely person to use the rod. The only noticeable peculiarity in his head was that it was fuller at the back than elsewhere, increasing gradually from the temples, but did not present any strongly marked distinctive feature either in shape or size.

He was of a highly nervous temperament, and little disposed to talk of his alleged powers unless questioned. He bore a high character for probity and rectitude; for the greater part of his life time he was an abstainer, neither did be smoke. He was also a Wesleyan.

Before proceeding to the cemetery, the body was taken to the Wesleyan Chapel, where a service was held conducted by the Rev H. Burson.

Mr . Hanington had charge of the arrangements.

Newbury Weekly News and General Advertiser - Thursday 25 January 1894