REJOICING AT NEWBERRY HALL

The Leinster Express 11 March 1871

REJOICING AT NEWBERRY HALL

On Thursday evening last there were rejoicings for the return of Alexander Pilkington, Esq., Eldest son and heir to Fredrick Pilkington, Esq., J.P., of Newbridge Hall, County Kildare. Shortly after the war broke out between France and Prussia Mr Pilkington, with a few other young gentlemen, went to Paris and joined a company of Franc-Tireurs. On several occasions throughout the campaign the conduct and bravery of Mr Pilkington and his companions were brought under the notice of the generals in command, and the rank of captain was conferred on Mr Pilkington. When he arrived at Enfield station he proceeded in his father’s carriage to within a short distance of the village of Carbury, where about five hundred men met the carriage, unharnessed the horses, and drew it home at a rattling pace to Newberry Hall, cheering most lustily all the way. Here a large number of ladies and gentlemen awaited his arrival. A bonfire was lighted on the hill of Carbury a display of rockets and fire-works of all description was made both in demesne at Newberry and on the hill, where a liberal supply of refreshments was dispensed to those present. The greatest good humour prevailed. Mr Pilkington’s health was often toasted. In the evening a number of ladies and gentlemen were invited to dine at Newberry Hall. Next day a number of Mr Pilkington’s friends went out rabbit shooting in the demesne. Such proofs of good feeling must be very gratifying to Mr Pilkington, and show that his efforts in giving extensive employment, as justice of the peace, and as a friend to the working classes have met with general approval. – Irish Times.