Jabez Good was an
eccentric character who earned respect from the people of Burgh. He
achieved many things in his 81 years before his death in 1911. Jabez,
the local barber wrote 'A Lincolnshire Glossary', in this can be found
the meaning of dialect, a form of language spoken by local people.
Apart from writing,
he was an artist, sign writer and taxidermist. Jabez became an accomplished
wood carver and in Burgh church stands a fine example of his workmanship,
a lectern which takes the form of a magnificent eagle. He carved a self
portrait and entered it into the London workman's exhibition, in 1870
he was awarded a medal for this fine work. Today, his great-great nephew
is the proud owner of the carving.
1857 was the year
Jabez Good opened his shop, it was situated at the corner of Orby Road.
The barber's chair still exists today and is owned by Burgh History
Group. Next to his shop, Jabez established a museum, he collected many
artefacts one of which was said to be a pair of Oliver Cromwell's boots.
He decided to close the museum in 1888, a two day auction was held at
the Bell Hotel but the items fetched much less than expected.
Jabez also served
as the Parish Clerk. He often used his skills to help out at local events,
he made a whipping post and pillory for display purposes. He also designed
the triumphal arches that were erected at the East and West end of Burgh
as part of the coronation celebrations for King George V and Queen Mary,
on June 22nd 1911. Just three months after this he died,
he was buried in Burgh church yard but it is not known exactly where
he lies, sadly, his grave was unmarked.
