Something will turn up.....

This modern stone in York cemetery marks the site of a public grave which is of interest to anyone familiar with the writing of Charles Dickens. Alfred Dickens, younger brother of Charles, lived near York and it is possible Charles met Richard Chicken on a visit to see his brother. For a time Alfred Dickens and Richard Chicken worked in the same office so Charles must have heard many stories and anecdotes from and about this noted York eccentric.
The Chicken family lived in St. Mary’s Row, Bishophill, producing baby Chickens at regular intervals, and according to a neighbour, 'bathing them every Sunday morning in the yard in full view of everybody who wanted to look'. Despite this sanitary regime (or perhaps because of it) five of the little Chickens died of typhoid fever. 
Later, the family moved to Bilton Street in Layerthorpe and then Union Terrace. Despite his limited income as a clerk he continued to hatch Chickens at regular intervals and money was always tight. By now Chicken was known all over the city for his Micawberish way of life particularly his elaborate begging letters. 
He died in the workhouse and was buried in a Public Grave which cost 4s 6d with an additional charge of 4s 6d for the use of the cemetery hearse. An old school friend paid the 9 shillings owing.
Taking part in Taphophile Tragics