On this Day in 1834

First gas illumination in the North / Durham and Reform

"A grand dinner was given at the Assembly Rooms, Newcastle, to the Earl of Durham, by his friends and admirers, in that town. The chair was taken by W. H. Ord, esq., M.P., who was supported by the noble Earl and W. Ord, esq., William Hutt, esq., M.P., Sir W. Chaytor, Bart., M.P., Cuthbert Rippon, esq., M.P. Dr Headlam, the recorder of Newcastle, W. W. Burdon, esq., and J. Losh, esq., officiated as vice-presidents. The Countess of Durham and a number of ladies were also present, and the proceedings, which were very animated, lasted until near midnight. The front of the Assembly Rooms was illuminated in gas jets with a crown and "William IV," and the words "Durham and Reform." This was the first gas illumination ever seen in the North, and was much admired."

From: T Fordyce, J. Sykes. Local records; or, Historical register of remarkable events which have occurred in Northumberland and Durham, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Berwick-upon-Tweed..., published 1867

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1834 Assembly Rooms, Newcastle Newcastle upon Tyne