PEACOCK – OLD PEACOCK – MECHANICS ARMS, 26 SOUTHGATE STREET

An article in the LC relating to the history of Leicester, records that in 1692 water was to be supplied from the Soar in lead pipes from Castle Mill to the Peacock Inn Southgate Street.  Often confused as the nearby Peacock (Old Peacock), on Highcross Street/Peacock Lane corner. This property seems to date from at least that period as behind the facade stood a timber framed one.

By circa 1820-30, it was run by Ann Smith who auctioned the Peacock, brewing vessels, F&F and all her household goods. (the above could relate to the Peacock 1 Highcross St, although both are listed separate in directories) (See Peacock Highcross St listing)

There seems to be a lull in listings until 1869, (now maybe a different building) when Joseph Beck is recorded as landlord of the Mechanics beerhouse. (the Old Peacock in Highcross St closed for demolition about this time) This is confirmed at the Brewster Sessions, when Josiah Beck transferred the licence to George Benton.  Joseph Hames followed in 1875,  John Swingler, 1879.  Swingler reverted the name back to the Peacock by 1881, and stayed there until circa 1900, when William Winifred took control.  Edwin Heaps followed, circa 1902.

Thought to be The Peacock-Mechanics, 26 Southgate Street.

The court records of 1870-80 can be confusing as in April 1874, Emma Fowls was found guilty of breaking five panes of glass at Mr Hames’, Peacock.

The Peacock was a John Bell & Co Ltd of Burton house.(BHS).  It closed in April 1915, under the compensation scheme.  To no avail, the owner valued the stock at £200 more than was paid £120 paid to tenant. The below photos show the premises owned and occupied by G.R. Sherwin boot repairers. David H Shewin confirmed it was once an old coaching Inn, although for the past 100 plus years has been run as a boot & shoe manufactures.Again some confusion as the Turks Head is sometime listed at this address.

Peacock photos above  from the Laura Evans collection, taken by her Grandfather, Tom Bassett.

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