Brother John (1810-1869)
One of Henry’s older brothers was named John (not to be confused with another John Dennis of the same dates, who was transported to Tasmania). This John was another whose life was claimed by the black stuff.
Derby Mercury 28 April 1869
INQUEST. — An inquest was was held on Thursday, the 15th inst., at the Bird-in-Hand Inn, Measham, before Joseph Sale Esq., coroner, on the body of John Dennis, aged 60, collier, who died on Wednesday, from the effects of being seriously injured by a fall of coal while working at the New Field Colliery, at Moira, on the 13th of April. Mr. Edward Hogg, the bailiff at the colliery, William Bradford, and Benjamin Wright, colliers, who worked with the deceased were called as witnesses. — A verdict of “Accidental Death” was returned.
It appears that the death was on 14 April.
Benjamin Wright was married to Hannah Dennis, a distant cousin of John and Henry.
This is perhaps the most poignant of all reports. Not because of its content, but because of its brevity. The title. The facts, but not all. No reason. No family. Just one more life ended suddenly. One more family in distress. An “accident”? – Bullshit! This type of incident happened far too frequently to be truly accidental.
Sources:
– Findmypast – newspaper records
– CMHRC
– Andrew’s Kindred
Andrew's Kindred 