We had recently a series of 'Ripples' in the area, viz., people who not only made a local mark but whose influence extended out-wards. There were also men and women in every generation who were household names in their parish but whom we have forgotten. In Alcester town such people were often shop-keepers or artisans, people who met the everyday needs of the population. Such a family were the YARNOLDS. They were apothecaries in the 17th century who became very successful. Richard flourished between 1630 and 1650 but the business was continued by his wife Margaret: according to her probate, her house was a large and comfortable one and her goods were valued at £951, a not inconsiderable sum.

Richard and Margaret's eldest son, John, continued as an apothecary into the 18th century and is referred to as a 'gent'. In 1659, when Francis Throckmorton was taken ill at Moor Hall near Broom he sent for physic to Mr. Yarnold of Alcester. The Yarnolds issued their own tokens, the sign of an important business, and in 1688 John was a candidate for High Constable of Barlichway Hundred.

Here was a local name of importance which dimmed in the 18th century and became just a memory. It fits in with honour in the long list of doctors and chemists who have served the Alcester area for three hundred years and more.

Autumn 1995 Index