Isle of Wight Observer, November 5 1859
An event of no ordinary importance (although it seems to attract little or no attention) has just occurred to the inhabitants and visitors of this town; namely, the completion of the laying of the wire in connection with the Telegraph, via Cowes, Sconce Fort, and Hurst Castle; thus opening a communication instantaneously with all parts of the World within the “magic circle”. To illustrate the importance we attach to this circumstance, we will give an example: the laying was completed on Monday afternoon last, and the wire was immediately tested and found “all right”; and the following day a storm arose of such severity as to cut us off from all communication with the mainland, with the exception of the post, via Southampton, at 3.30am. before the gale attained its intensity. No matter how urgent the emergency, there was complete isolation; what greater proof, then, could there be required to prove the absolute necessity and utility of the Telegraph? Of course, we are not surprised at the supineness of the inhabitants generally with regard to this great event; inasmuch as four or five years ago, when a move was made by us to introduce the Telegraph, we could find but one person only to encourage us, and that was Mr Edward Marvin, sen., who joined us in a guarantee to secure £200 -a-year business for three years, which the Company declined unless the guarantee was made perpetual. So things stood till now, and we feel confident the speculation will answer. But why should not the opening of the communication be attended with éclat? Surely many inferior objects are puffed up; and, therefore, the full merit ought not to be withheld from this. But, as the French say, “Chacun a son gout.”
REMOVAL OF AN OLD LANDMARK – The well-known veranda in Union-street has been removed this week, which, to the eye accustomed to the town, gives a very naked appearance to the street. This was one of the landmarks of Ryde, and it was erected near half-a-century ago when the place was a village; and was first used as a lottery office, when those schemes were sanctioned by Government. Doubtless its removal will enhance the value of the property which before seemed buried.
