DEATH OF MR. J. T. BOTTLE
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A YARMOUTH AUTHOR
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Yarmouth has lost one of its most interesting citizens by the death, on Saturday, of Mr. Jonathan Tebbs Bottle, who was for many years one of the leading architects in East Anglia. In many ways Mr. Bottle had distinguished himself. In 1879 quite a stir in caused in literary circles by his fine poetic tragedy "Brian Boru," the scene of which was laid in Ireland early in the 11th century. There was a widespread hope and expectation that this "first and tentative effort" as Mr. Bottle styled it would be followed by others. Another poem entitled "Conrad the Pole" was written but never published. The few who have been privileged to read it consider it even finer than "Brian Boru." Mr. Bottle was a staunch Noncomformist, and a good Liberal. He, however joined the Unionists in opposing Mr. Gladstone's Home Rule Bill. As a borough magistrate he attended regularly at the Police Court so long as health permitted. Mr. Bottle had a most extensive acquaintance with English literature, was a zealous advocate of temperance, took keen interest in archeology, and with Sir R. H. I. Palgrave and others did much for the preservation of the remains of the Greyfriars' Cloisters. In 1887 he had, as architect for the new General Hospital, the honour of presentation to H. R. H. the Prince of Wales, afterwards King Edward VII, who laid the foundation stone. For many years Mr. Bottle had been a widower, and he leaves one child, Mrs. W. Tacon Flower.
The funeral took place in Yarmouth Cemetery on Monday afternoon, in ground purchased by Mr. Bottle some forty years ago. The Rev. G. McLackie, who conducted the service in the Mortuary Chapel, spoke in eloquent terms of Mr. Bottle as an honoured and aged saint, and said they were thankful for what he had been as husband, father, citizen and Christian gentleman. Mrs. W. Tacon Flower (daughter), Mr. W. Tacon Flower (son-in-law) and Mr. W. Flower were the family mourners.
The Mayor, the Deputy Mayor, Alderman T. A. Rising, the Rev. D. J. John, Mrs. J. G. Rogers, and Messrs. H. R. Atkins, G. F. D. Preston (Magistrates' Clerk), A. E. Cowl, H. Olley, F. R. B. Haward, H. W. Turrell, A. E. Lark, S. Rivett, H. E. Barbour, J. Starling, W. L. Flaxman, (Congregational missioners), E. F. Cox, F. Johnston (a former pupil), W. J. Hall, J. Brown, and W. Townrow attended to show their respect and esteem. Dr. J. Ryley, Mr E. E. Palmer, and Mr. A. S. Hewitt, sent messages expressing their deep regret for being unable to be present. No flowers were requested, but four fine tributes rested upon the coffin, marked - In loving memory, Nellie, Fred, Edgar, and Frank Bottle; In ever loving memory, from Nellie and Will and the four dearly loved grandchildren; With sincere regard and much sympathy, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Olley; A token of sincere regret from his former pupil, F. R. B. Haward. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Palmers, under the direction of Mr. L. T. Clamp.