Brittain, Betsy 1883 December 29th Calne
On Wednesday evening a sad event marred the Christmas festivities here, an aged woman, named Betsy Brittain, wife of Isaac Brittain, meeting with a shocking death. Deceased, who has lately given way to habits of intemperance, went home the worse for drink, and whilst going upstairs fell backwards and split her skull open, laying the brain bare.
She was taken up and Dr Newton Clare sent for, but life of course was extinct. Her husband was in bed at the time. An inquest has been held.
I think we may assume “Accidental death” for this one – Ed.
Wiltshire Coroner's Inquests 1801-1920 