Cricketer Thomas Humphrey (1839-1878) [Plot82]
Thomas was born 16th January 1839 in Mitcham. At the age of 23 he was playing first-class cricket for Surrey. He was known as the “Pocket Hercules” for although he was short, he could hit powerfully, he was considered one of the best all-rounders, of the day. During his career he scored 6,687 runs in 381 innings, being not out 18 times. His brothers, John, William, and Richard were also first-class cricketers. Thomas formed a successful partnership with Harry Jupp, they became known as ‘The Surrey Boys’. He played his last match for Surrey in 1874 at the age of 35 and then became landlord of the Cricketers Inn in Westcott, then he moved to the Ram Inn followed by the Jolly Butcher both in Dorking. Sadly, his health broke down, he died of congestion of the lungs in Brookwood Asylum, he was 39 years of age.
Many associates and friends donated to pay for his memorial.
