GREEN DRAGON (GEORGE & DRAGON), TALBOT LANE

Initially known as the George & Dragon, Joseph Bellamy bought the property in the late 1860s. He set up a hosiery trimmer and described himself as as a brewer in 1871. It was still recorded as George & Dragon, by 1875, but by 1880 the name changed  to the Green Dragon.

Joseph still registered as a brewer now lives in Preston Street. It seems Joseph Bellamy then took on managers or tenants, keeping hold of the freehold.

Thomas Payne, circa 1882. Frederick Blossom, circa 1883. Benjamin Fern, 1884. John Griffin, 1885. John Jackson, circa 1886. Joseph Cayless, circa 1890. All followed in quick succession, Joseph Blower was the last landlord when the Green Dragon closed in 1895.

Shapes Brewery Sileby supplied the beer, then in 1891, Joseph Bellamy described himself as a hosiery trimmer – having gone full circle.

Demolition of the Green Dragon circa 1896

Joseph Bellamy still owned the freehold and then sold to the Railway Co for £2,200 including the two adjoining cottages, for the building of the Great Central Railway. Joseph Bellamy died in 1905, he was now described as a ‘gentleman’ (thanks to Chris Jinks).

Demolition work, ready for the Great Central Railway (photo’s Newton collection LRO)

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