From the Maidstone Journal 17th October 1857.

Stone Street Ward.

Rumours of bribery, on the part of the wealthy candidate, are right but we would advise those who are dust tempted to follow the example of Steve those friend, and make sure. At a meeting of liberals, the novelty of a grand illumination, exhibiting the initials, C. A. With, For Cipher, a butter Firkin, attracted a crowd of little boys outside the barley sheaf beer house, where and are Cole meeting was held.

Local news on this day 23 February 1861.

On Thursday 21st February, Maidstone and other towns felt the effects of a strong gale. In parts of the town, the roofs of several buildings were damaged, chimney pots, tiles, and slates were blown in all directions. At the Militia Barracks, a large stack of chimneys were blown down, carrying away with them a portion of the roof over the buglers' room.

At the "Barley Sheaf," Upper Stone Street, a stack of chimneys were blown down and the side of a house was blown in, at Union square. A stack of chimneys were also blown down at the house occupied by Mr Birchall, pipe maker of Earl Street.