Sheffield Independent – Wednesday 02 November 1927

Missing Barmaid Sequel.

Verdict Of “Found Drowned.”

The mystery of the missing Elsecar barmaid was closed, yesterday, with an inquest at Wombwell. The girl was Matilda Peace Burton, aged 28. Her disappearance a fortnight ago caused a sensation, and the girl’s body was taken from the canal at Wombwell on Sunday morning.

Deceased’s brother, William Burton, miner, 45, Lundhill row, Wombwell, said his sister had been employed by Mr. and Mrs. Newby for about 11 years, and for the past two years was barmaid and servant at the Milton Arms. Witness saw his sister on October, the night before her disappearance, and she then appeared to be in night spirits.

She had a cold, but remarked that she was getting a little better. She promised to come and see witness either the same night or the following day.

Mrs. Fanny Newby said the girl had complained about not being able to sleep.

Dr. C, W. Jardine said the condition of the body was consistent with it having been in the water for about a fortnight. The cause of death was drowning. The doctor mentioned an unusual condition of the brain that would cause nervousness and headache. The Coroner, Mr. C. J. Haworth, said there waa no evidence show how or when the girl got into the water. A verdict of Found drowned” was returned.