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Overview.
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May 1748: Leased for a Thousand Years
The Rent Roll of the Corporation of Portsmouth lists just two properties in Hilsea: the “Green Post” public house, originally leased on 3 May 1748 to James Robinson at a rent of 13s 4d, and a waste piece of ground on the north side of the same property with no lease, rented at 5s. In 1880, both rents are received from Garrett and Co.
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Dec 1824: Died Suddenly in the Accommodation Van
In December, Captain Castle, lately resident in Southsea, dies suddenly in the “Accommodation Van” near the Green Post in Hilsea. He had traveled from London the previous night and was in good health until the coach reached Hilsea. His body is taken to the Green Post public house, and a Coroner’s Inquest determines he died of apoplexy.
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In December, a gang of body snatchers attempt to exhume bodies from graves in Portsea. They are interrupted by watchmen and flee, leaving behind tools and personal items. Blood traces suggest one of them is wounded. Two suspects, who recently arrived from London, stayed at the Green Post pub the night before. A search of their belongings reveals tools associated with grave robbing.
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Dec 1830: A Groundless Complaint
Engel Short, a cordwainer from Portsea, publicly admits to falsely accusing Samuel Neat of felony in 1830. Neat agrees to forego legal action if Short confesses his mistake and publishes a notice declaring the charge false.
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Robert Henry Marshall is found dead in a turnip field opposite the Green Post. The field belongs to Gatcombe Farm. Bethel Taft, the ostler at the Green Post, hears the report of the pistol.
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Sept 1881: Artillery Driver Dodges Conviction
Draymen using a steam traction engine to deliver beer to Portsmouth discover a barrel missing when they get to the Green Post.
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Mar 1889: Charge Against a Hussar Sergeant
Sergeant William Henry Butler of the 14th Hussars, stationed at Hilsea Barracks, faces a District Court Martial for leaving his post without orders and using abusive language towards a prisoner. The trial reveals that Butler left Hilsea Barracks on the night of March 5th, entered the Green Posts pub, and returned to the barracks later than expected.