Thomas Helliker

I quite often go shopping in Trowbridge as I find it is much quieter and more relaxing than visiting Bath which is very busy full of students and tourists - I have been researching into the history of the Trowbridge and  recently visiting it's Museum which is well worth a visit.

Trowbrige and the surrounding area once had a fair number of Mills and  came across this sad tale of Thoams HELLINKER a young shearman apprentice .   When Littleton Mill was burned down in protest at the  introduction of  machinery, he was apprehended on false accusation despite having an alibi and protesting his innocence.  Although he probably knew those who had started the fire, he steadfastly refused to name them then charged and sent for trial at Salisbury where he was subsequently found guilty and was hanged at Fisherton Gaol on his 18th birthday on March 22 1803 despite public outrage.  It is likely that he had been framed by powerful clothiers determined to make an example. 

 Thomas is buried in St James Churchyard Trowbridge - a wreath is laid each year in remembrance by White Horse Trades Union Council.

Today I visited the town to see if a wreath had been placed yesterday - and was heartened to see that it had indeed .- I placed a fir cone on his tomb and stood awhile remembering such a brave lad