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The Shilling House Traditional Cache

This cache has been archived.

Phil100: I've checked this morning and it has definitely gone again. Time to archive I think.

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Hidden : 12/8/2008
Difficulty:
1 out of 5
Terrain:
1 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:

An easy to find micro cache containing a log but you will need to bring your own pencil. The co-ordinates should take you to a location opposite "The Shilling House".

The Montagu Pit Disaster occurred on 30 March 1925 when an influx of water from a nearby abandoned pit flooded the Low Montagu Pit resulting in a total of thirty five men and boys being killed. Two relief funds were set up - one by the Lord Mayor and the other by the local newspapers.

At the time of the disaster, a demonstration house was being built on the West Road by Corolite Construction Ltd. for The Newcastle Daily Chronicle to illustrate the latest building techniques in reinforced concrete. It was designed by Michael Frank Wharlton Bunney and Clifford Makins who had designed about 100 houses for Hampstead Garden Suburb.

The proprietors of The Newcastle Daily Chronicle decided to donate the house as the first prize in a competition, the proceeds of which would go to the Montagu Pit Disaster Fund. The entrance fee to the competition was one shilling (5p) - hence the "local" name - and the prize was to go to the person who was closest to estimating the number of people who used the Newcastle Tramways on the 30 May 1925. The winner was a Mrs Margaret Hayes who moved into the house which was originally called Sherwood before being given a number. Mrs Hayes’ family continued to live in the house for a number of years after she died.

More recently, the house has been restored and renovated by Lin Hopper and c.2002 was being offered for sale at £250,000.

Despite having searched through archived newspapers of the time, I have been unable to find out the correct answer. If anyone knows, I would love to hear from them!!

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Abg zntargvp.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)