Samuel Couchman

PC Couchman and a colleague were called to quell a disturbance at a house in Paper Alley, off Bridge Street, in the Charlton area of Dover. The house was occupied by several men, including a father and his five sons. Some of the men were prize-fighters, sweeps and poachers, and on entering the property the two officers were immediately attacked.

Samuel’s colleague was soon knocked down and in going to his assistance PC Couchman was also struck, kicked and stamped on.

One of the prize-fighters then struck Samuel across the face with a broom handle with a piece of metal attached to it, causing severe lacerations to the officer’s nose and cheek. He died soon after.

Although he’d only served a few months with the police, Samuel had previously served more than twenty-six years in the Royal Marines, receiving a silver medal for good conduct.

He was buried in St. James’ Churchyard, Dover, and left a wife and two children.