Research Forum

Sir William Erskine Baker
published by on Wed, 08/01/2014 - 12:44

Hiya All

This is a general query - the above gentleman resided at Banwell Castle. I am looking into the area and found that he died at Banwell Castle, but can't find out how. Is there any way to find out his cause of death without sending for the certificate?

Many thanks

Mike

Comments ..

Submitted by Pat Hase on Wed, 08/01/2014 - 14:05

As his age was given as 72 when he died it is likely that he died of natural causes. If there had been an inquest or a post mortum I'm sure there would have been an account of it in the local press. You might try contacting Roy Rice who is a member of this society but is also very much involved in the history of Banwell and may well be able to help you.

Submitted by on Wed, 08/01/2014 - 15:02

This as well as a further obituary was in the Bristol Mercury and Daily Post of Tuesday 20 December 1881:
Death of General Sir William Baker, KCB -
On Friday last the death of the above baronet took place very suddenly at his residence, Banwell Castle. The deceased gentleman was in his usual health up to lunch time on Friday. At that hour he retired to his room. His protracted absence occasioned Lady Baker some anxiety, and she went to his apartment to ascertain the cause. When she reached his room, she found Sir William prostrate, in an unconscious condition. Dr Bisdee was immediately summoned, and arrived at the Castle at 1:15 PM He found the deceased gentleman suffering from cerebral effusion and apoplexy. From the first he gave no hopes. at 6:30 the medical man noticed a great cxhange for the worse. His patient gradually grew worse, and expired very calmly at 8:45....