A HISTORY OF FEATHERSTONE
1920
THE MOTHER AND BABY CLINIC
Throughout
1919 Miss Lee, the health visitor, had held weekly clinics for
expectant mothers and new mothers. Her lectures and occasional ones by a
doctor were well received. A meeting was held in the Lister Hall in
January for members and friends where tea was served.
Afterwards Mr Holiday said there was nothing to compare with a mother's
love for her child, but such love without knowledge might be helpless.
On the other hand a nurse with all her knowledge could
not compete with the mother as regards mother-love. The council had
appointed a nurse to impart that necessary, valuable knowledge touching
the child.
What was needed now was the bringing together of the mother with her
love for the child and the nurse with her knowledge of the child. It was
even more important that the expectant mother should have this
knowledge, so that her child - the greatest gift of God - should have
the foundation of a healthy constitution, and should become in time a
healthy man or woman and a good citizen.
The evening ended with entertainment by the St Peter's Musical Union,
Mrs Smurthwaite, Mr Dobson, Mr and Mrs Vaughan, Mrs Gray, Miss Caton, Mr
Ward, Mr Hobson and Miss Kitson.
Another maternity matter was discussed at the January council meeting. Complicated maternity cases were sent to Leeds Maternity Hospital. The hospital offered the use of beds, payment to be made for each patient based on the actual cost averaging last year £8 16s 6d, and the council accepted.
Another maternity matter was discussed at the January council meeting. Complicated maternity cases were sent to Leeds Maternity Hospital. The hospital offered the use of beds, payment to be made for each patient based on the actual cost averaging last year £8 16s 6d, and the council accepted.
GAS OR ELECTRICITY
At the January council meeting Cr Murphy asked in view of the very
unsatisfactory gas supply they ask the Yorkshire Electric Power Company
if and when they propose to exercise their power to supply electricity to Featherstone.
Cr Maxwell said the standard of Featherstone gas was above that
stipulated by the Government and was better than in Pontefract,
Castleford or Wakefield. People should have their mantles and fittings
looked to. Cr Johnson said if electricity is an improvement why
shouldn't we have it. Cr Maxwell said I've no objection.
Cr Evans said it was remarkable there should be all these complaints
now. Were all these people neglectful? No one had paid more attention to
fittings than he had but he could not get a good light. The gas manager
could not get the public to believe the fault rested with them. The council should either take the gas company over or see that electricity
was supplied.
Cr Poppleton said too much air got into the pipes before the gas
company put the full pressure on. Cr Darlington agreed with him, but
said the gas company had had difficulties. A letter stressed the acute
shortage of men and materials, and said the gas pressure was now above
Government standard. The letter added the majority of complaints came
from customers who neglected to give proper attention to fittings and
burners.
Crs Evans and Ryan said the letter was an insult to Featherstone
people: The fault was poor gas. Cr Darlington said unless an
incandescent burner were used people had not been able to get a light at
all. It was agreed to contact the electricity company to ask their
intentions.
In February the electricity company said they were ready to proceed as soon as allowed under the War Act 1918. The clerk said he had received a letter from the Board of Trade saying that no date had yet been fixed.
In February the electricity company said they were ready to proceed as soon as allowed under the War Act 1918. The clerk said he had received a letter from the Board of Trade saying that no date had yet been fixed.
A WAR MEMORIAL
At a meeting of the War Memorial Committee in January several members
reported on an inspection of the Assembly Rooms which had been suggested
as a war memorial. All except Mr Batten thought it would serve as a
club, institute and public hall if alterations, renovating and painting
were carried out. A cenotaph could be erected in the space facing
Station Lane and the building should have an entrance facing Station
Lane.
The secretary of the Assembly Rooms Company had written offering the
building and contents (except what belonged to the Athletic Club) for
£6,500, and asking for an early reply.
The three local colliery owners would be asked if they would give a
guarantee towards the proposed total cost of about £10,000, and the
workers would be asked if they would consent to a weekly deduction of 6d
per man for two years. On receipt of these replies the tradesmen and
public would be approached and another meeting arranged.
At the next meeting in February held in a packed Regent Street Girls' School Mr Holiday said the committee had decided not sufficient accommodation could be provided for £10,000 if a new building were to be built. Their opinion was the Assembly Rooms should be purchased and another £3,500 spent on making an entrance and providing a cenotaph. He said £30,000 would be required to provide a new building for the purpose suggested. The three local colliery owners would be asked to subscribe £3,000 between them.
Mr Amison disagreed and suggested two monuments bearing the names of all the fallen. What mother wished to hear billiard balls rattling in memory of her fallen son? If no other place could be found the monuments could be placed in the cemetery.
A miner who declined to give his name said the Assembly Rooms should be swept off the board. They had sufficient memorial to the lads who were walking the streets minus legs and arms. They (the committee) are after our money. They'll get nowt o'mine.
There were suggestions for a park and Mr Holiday said from the first meeting the council had been moving to buy Purston Hall estate and were now awaiting a public inquiry.
Another man said he had a wife and six children and it was a scandal and a shame they were trying to take 6d a week from him. Mr Holiday said it was not a tax but a voluntary effort. If the branch meetings turned it down that was an end of it. Whatever scheme was adopted money would have to be raised. Surely the working men of Featherstone wanted some share in whatever memorial was adopted.
Mr Garritty said the miners' branches had dropped a new building scheme because the cost was estimated at £80,000. He supported the committee. The council were doing their best to obtain a park which would be a grand place for the summer, and the Assembly Rooms, when altered and improved, would make a very good place for the winter. He appealed to his fellows not to be selfish and help to provide an alternative to the clubs and pubs. Mr McTrusty suggested an alternative of a cottage hospital, a maternity home and a nursing association.
Mr Holiday then put the committee's proposal about the Assembly Rooms to the meeting and it was heavily defeated. In the end Mr McTrusty's suggestion was agreed providing there was some memorial including the names of all the fallen.
At their February meeting the members of the Nursing Association were in favour of the proposal to use Purston Hall as a cottage hospital. They had to decide if they would maintain it if the War Memorial Committee equipped it.
In May the committee came to the conclusion the Purston Hall scheme was too costly. The cost of converting it was estimated at £2,000, and the yearly maintenance costs would be £2,000. The committee had now decided to recommend a memorial tablet containing the names of the fallen at a cost of about £500 and the forming of a Nursing Association at a cost of about £500 a year. Mr Holiday thought the town should be able to raise this amount. The Tradesmen's and Teachers' Associations had promised to contribute which left about £400 a year to raise.
Mr Darlington said the scheme was very modest. If Featherstone folk were not prepared to make this small sacrifice it spoke very badly for the town. Mr S Batten spoke strongly in favour of a cenotaph but the committee's new proposal was passed. The three local miners' branches would be consulted to see if their members would contribute and a further meeting would be arranged.
In June the representatives of the miners at the three collieries met Dr Steven about forming a Nursing Association as part of a war memorial. He pointed out the advantages to working class families. They promised to recommend to their members that they give financial support.
Two weeks later the War Memorial and Nursing Association Committees held a joint meeting. Mr Holiday reviewed the current situation (the schemes were too expensive and the miners were reluctant to donate weekly) and it was decided no action would be taken with regard to a war memorial. The question of a Nursing Association would be left in abeyance until a more favourable time. It was agreed there was no need to hold a further public meeting.
At the next meeting in February held in a packed Regent Street Girls' School Mr Holiday said the committee had decided not sufficient accommodation could be provided for £10,000 if a new building were to be built. Their opinion was the Assembly Rooms should be purchased and another £3,500 spent on making an entrance and providing a cenotaph. He said £30,000 would be required to provide a new building for the purpose suggested. The three local colliery owners would be asked to subscribe £3,000 between them.
Mr Amison disagreed and suggested two monuments bearing the names of all the fallen. What mother wished to hear billiard balls rattling in memory of her fallen son? If no other place could be found the monuments could be placed in the cemetery.
A miner who declined to give his name said the Assembly Rooms should be swept off the board. They had sufficient memorial to the lads who were walking the streets minus legs and arms. They (the committee) are after our money. They'll get nowt o'mine.
There were suggestions for a park and Mr Holiday said from the first meeting the council had been moving to buy Purston Hall estate and were now awaiting a public inquiry.
Another man said he had a wife and six children and it was a scandal and a shame they were trying to take 6d a week from him. Mr Holiday said it was not a tax but a voluntary effort. If the branch meetings turned it down that was an end of it. Whatever scheme was adopted money would have to be raised. Surely the working men of Featherstone wanted some share in whatever memorial was adopted.
Mr Garritty said the miners' branches had dropped a new building scheme because the cost was estimated at £80,000. He supported the committee. The council were doing their best to obtain a park which would be a grand place for the summer, and the Assembly Rooms, when altered and improved, would make a very good place for the winter. He appealed to his fellows not to be selfish and help to provide an alternative to the clubs and pubs. Mr McTrusty suggested an alternative of a cottage hospital, a maternity home and a nursing association.
Mr Holiday then put the committee's proposal about the Assembly Rooms to the meeting and it was heavily defeated. In the end Mr McTrusty's suggestion was agreed providing there was some memorial including the names of all the fallen.
At their February meeting the members of the Nursing Association were in favour of the proposal to use Purston Hall as a cottage hospital. They had to decide if they would maintain it if the War Memorial Committee equipped it.
In May the committee came to the conclusion the Purston Hall scheme was too costly. The cost of converting it was estimated at £2,000, and the yearly maintenance costs would be £2,000. The committee had now decided to recommend a memorial tablet containing the names of the fallen at a cost of about £500 and the forming of a Nursing Association at a cost of about £500 a year. Mr Holiday thought the town should be able to raise this amount. The Tradesmen's and Teachers' Associations had promised to contribute which left about £400 a year to raise.
Mr Darlington said the scheme was very modest. If Featherstone folk were not prepared to make this small sacrifice it spoke very badly for the town. Mr S Batten spoke strongly in favour of a cenotaph but the committee's new proposal was passed. The three local miners' branches would be consulted to see if their members would contribute and a further meeting would be arranged.
In June the representatives of the miners at the three collieries met Dr Steven about forming a Nursing Association as part of a war memorial. He pointed out the advantages to working class families. They promised to recommend to their members that they give financial support.
Two weeks later the War Memorial and Nursing Association Committees held a joint meeting. Mr Holiday reviewed the current situation (the schemes were too expensive and the miners were reluctant to donate weekly) and it was decided no action would be taken with regard to a war memorial. The question of a Nursing Association would be left in abeyance until a more favourable time. It was agreed there was no need to hold a further public meeting.
COUNCIL HOUSES
At the February council meeting the clerk reported the housing
commissioner had passed the amended plans for the second council house
scheme. Cr Ryan said they were in no way to blame for the delay in
building. The chairman, Cr Darlington said the council had worked hard
and often. They were asked by the Prime Minister to build houses quickly
for heroes to live in. That was the council's object, and if the first
plans had been passed some of the houses would have been up now.
The council knew the needs of the district better than the housing
commissioner or the Ministry of Health, but they had been overruled.
This delay was inexcusable and the public ought to know it was not the council's fault.
At the May council meeting it was announced the final specification for the roads and services had been passed. The Ministry of Health had sanctioned the borrowing of £1,932 for the streets and £800 for the sewers. The Ministry said a circular road must be maintained in front of the church instead of a quadrant angle (a simple bend?). The council had wanted to reduce the cost.
At the May council meeting it was announced the final specification for the roads and services had been passed. The Ministry of Health had sanctioned the borrowing of £1,932 for the streets and £800 for the sewers. The Ministry said a circular road must be maintained in front of the church instead of a quadrant angle (a simple bend?). The council had wanted to reduce the cost.
In June the council decided to borrow the money locally and advertised Local Bonds for Housing in the Express. The Express commented
"Featherstone folk are not asked to give of their savings or earnings
to help to provide healthy, comfortable houses, but they are asked by
the council to lend money (for not less than five years) on the very
best security, and at a good rate of interest, namely six per cent.
Featherstonians ought to come forward in their hundreds in answer to the council's appeal, for by doing so they will not only be helping on a
great movement for the public good, but will have the satisfaction of
knowing their money is well and wisely invested".
Two weeks later the Express commented further "We are pleased to hear the Featherstone Housing Bonds campaign is progressing most favourably. The council have now advertised for tenders for the erection of the houses and we are informed the Bonds have been well supported by members of the council representing all parties. Featherstone Main Colliery have made a most generous offer to their workmen and the other two collieries will probably follow the lead given. The council clerk is confidently expecting numerous applications from tradesmen and others interested".
At the July council meeting it was explained Featherstone Main Colliery would purchase whatever Housing Bonds their employees wanted and allow them to pay for them weekly. On completion they would receive the bonds plus interest. The clerk said so far the scheme had raised £1,500.
A new Rent Act allowed rent increases and the council considered putting up the rent of their 149 tenants by 1s 4d a week. Some councillors objected but Cr Holiday said the scheme was running at a loss and it was their duty to put the scheme in an economic position. The law had prevented them increasing the rents and it now said they could do so, and they should do it in fairness to the ratepayers. The voting was 5-5 and the chairman, Cr Holiday, gave his casting vote in favour of an increase.
At the next council meeting in August the rent increase was brought up again. Some councillors said the Rent Act allowed a 30% increase but 25% was for repairs which had not been done because of the war. The new council houses did not require this so only a 5% rise should be made. Cr Holiday said he would be the last to urge that the council should make a profit, but they ought not to lose more money than necessary. Even with the 30% added the houses would not pay. In the end it was agreed the matter should stand in abeyance pending full particulars as to the financial position. A special council meeting was then held and a rise of 15% was agreed.
The council met Mr Archer regarding the Featherstone Main Housing Bond Scheme and agreed that after overcrowding had been remedied they would consider application for new houses from employees who subscribed to the housing bonds.
The Ministry of Health sanctioned the borrowing of £60,000 for more council houses but reminded the council the Ministry must be satisfied everything possible had been done to raise the money locally.
Cr Ryan attended a meeting of the National Housing and Town Planning Council in Leeds in December and said for the next housing scheme in Featherstone not a brick had been laid yet because plans were submitted to the commissioner in April 1919 for 50 houses and they were rejected again and again. A few days later the council met to consider a reply from the Ministry of Health. Further amendments were suggested and the council decided to accept them and start work as soon as possible.
Two weeks later the Express commented further "We are pleased to hear the Featherstone Housing Bonds campaign is progressing most favourably. The council have now advertised for tenders for the erection of the houses and we are informed the Bonds have been well supported by members of the council representing all parties. Featherstone Main Colliery have made a most generous offer to their workmen and the other two collieries will probably follow the lead given. The council clerk is confidently expecting numerous applications from tradesmen and others interested".
At the July council meeting it was explained Featherstone Main Colliery would purchase whatever Housing Bonds their employees wanted and allow them to pay for them weekly. On completion they would receive the bonds plus interest. The clerk said so far the scheme had raised £1,500.
A new Rent Act allowed rent increases and the council considered putting up the rent of their 149 tenants by 1s 4d a week. Some councillors objected but Cr Holiday said the scheme was running at a loss and it was their duty to put the scheme in an economic position. The law had prevented them increasing the rents and it now said they could do so, and they should do it in fairness to the ratepayers. The voting was 5-5 and the chairman, Cr Holiday, gave his casting vote in favour of an increase.
At the next council meeting in August the rent increase was brought up again. Some councillors said the Rent Act allowed a 30% increase but 25% was for repairs which had not been done because of the war. The new council houses did not require this so only a 5% rise should be made. Cr Holiday said he would be the last to urge that the council should make a profit, but they ought not to lose more money than necessary. Even with the 30% added the houses would not pay. In the end it was agreed the matter should stand in abeyance pending full particulars as to the financial position. A special council meeting was then held and a rise of 15% was agreed.
The council met Mr Archer regarding the Featherstone Main Housing Bond Scheme and agreed that after overcrowding had been remedied they would consider application for new houses from employees who subscribed to the housing bonds.
The Ministry of Health sanctioned the borrowing of £60,000 for more council houses but reminded the council the Ministry must be satisfied everything possible had been done to raise the money locally.
Cr Ryan attended a meeting of the National Housing and Town Planning Council in Leeds in December and said for the next housing scheme in Featherstone not a brick had been laid yet because plans were submitted to the commissioner in April 1919 for 50 houses and they were rejected again and again. A few days later the council met to consider a reply from the Ministry of Health. Further amendments were suggested and the council decided to accept them and start work as soon as possible.
STOLE SHOES IN WAKEFIELD
Fred Wilby of Eleanor Street and Henry Jones of Henrietta Street were
in court in Wakefield in February on a charge of stealing two pairs of
dancing shoes from the King Street Dancing Academy. Willie Swithenbank
and Harry Whitehouse said they left their dancing shoes with the
cloakroom attendant and when they returned for them they were missing.
The
police were informed and DC Riddle stopped the two Featherstone men on
Kirkgate Station platform just before the train left for Featherstone.
He searched them and found each had a pair of shoes in their pockets. He
took their names and addresses and allowed them to get on the train.
When he went to look for them later he found they had given a false
address and it took two days to find them.
They
both pleaded guilty and had nothing to say. The chairman said the Bench
felt they must put a stop to this pilfering and both were fined £5. The
Bench hoped this would be a warning to others. The proprietors should
have exercised more care at the interval and seen the place was properly
locked up; though the fact it was not locked up was no excuse for the
defendants' action.
SHACKLETON AGAIN
Samuel
Shackleton, a deaf mute, was bound over last year for using threats to
Mr J W McTrusty, Ackton Hall Colliery manager, and also sent to prison
for being on enclosed premises (the colliery). In February he was now in
custody again on similar charges.
Mr
W E Clayton-Smith said Mr McTrusty was at a loss what to do. The
prisoner was suffering from imaginary grievances and was continually
threatening Mr McTrusty, who was afraid not only for himself, but for
the safety of the colliery. Perhaps the remedy would be to find the
prisoner work, if they could have some guarantee of his future
behaviour.
Mr McTrusty said the prisoner entered his office and drew his finger
across his (McTrusty's) throat. The chairman said the prisoner had been
examined by the prison doctor who found him sane.
Mr W Pashley, from the colliery, had a paper and pencil conversation
with the prisoner in another room and he promised to be teetotal and not
to molest Mr McTrusty again if work was found for him. Mr McTrusty
promised to settle the work question and the hearing was adjourned until
April. At that hearing it was said Shackleton was in custody again so
there was another adjournment.
The War Memorial Committee had dropped the idea of using Purston Hall as a war memorial because of the cost, and at the May council meeting Cr Edwards suggested it should be used as a caretaker's house, and for games, reading and refreshment rooms. He said the public were demanding this matter should be settled. In July the council agreed this course of action and decided to inform the Ministry of Health.
In August the Ministry of Health agreed to the council borrowing £4,100 to purchase the hall and park but said the purposes for which the loan was required did not come under the class of loan at present issued by the Public Works Loan Board, The council had asked Barclays Bank to loan the money but they had declined.
At the December council meeting Cr Ryan asked when were they going forward with a public park. The Ministry of Health and the banks had refused to lend them money and he suggested Lord Masham could add one more to his list of benefactions by making the town a gift of the hall and park which could be called Masham Park or Lister Park.
Cr Edwards disagreed and said we ought to do it by ourselves, or substitute for Lord Masham the South Kirkby, Featherstone and Hemsworth Collieries Ltd. Cr Garritty said why not ask both?
The chairman. Cr Holiday, said he could not promise anything, but if the workers of Featherstone were so much in earnest about this park why didn't they show it by making a determined effort to raise the purchase money? It was his Lordship's policy to help those who helped themselves. This union of employees and employers was very desirable, but it was not fair one side should be asked to do it all.
A PARK FOR FEATHERSTONE
Last year the council were offered Purston Hall and estate to turn into
a public park for £4,000. They applied to the Ministry of Health for
permission to borrow the money plus £100 for legal expenses. The
Ministry decided to hold a public inquiry and it was held in February in
the council offices before inspector Mr Edgar Dudley,
The council clerk said £1,795 was for the hall and the rest was for
over 27 acres of parkland and plants. He gave details of the hall and
outbuildings and said the land was well wooded and admirably adapted for
a public park. Mr Charlesworth had the hall on loan until May 1922 but
he had said he had no desire to stand in the council's way, and if he
could find suitable accommodation he would give possession earlier.
The clerk said the district was overwhelmingly in favour of a public
park. The grounds would need little laying out, and the lodges and
stables could be put to good use. As to the hall itself, the War
Memorial Committee had suggested it could be used as a convalescent
home, cottage hospital and maternity home as a war memorial.
The inspector said he would advise the Ministry to ask the council to
state more specifically the use the hall would be put to. He was telling
them now so they would have their answer ready. There was no opposition
and the inquiry was concluded.
The photo of Purston Hall and grounds is from a postcard.
The War Memorial Committee had dropped the idea of using Purston Hall as a war memorial because of the cost, and at the May council meeting Cr Edwards suggested it should be used as a caretaker's house, and for games, reading and refreshment rooms. He said the public were demanding this matter should be settled. In July the council agreed this course of action and decided to inform the Ministry of Health.
In August the Ministry of Health agreed to the council borrowing £4,100 to purchase the hall and park but said the purposes for which the loan was required did not come under the class of loan at present issued by the Public Works Loan Board, The council had asked Barclays Bank to loan the money but they had declined.
At the December council meeting Cr Ryan asked when were they going forward with a public park. The Ministry of Health and the banks had refused to lend them money and he suggested Lord Masham could add one more to his list of benefactions by making the town a gift of the hall and park which could be called Masham Park or Lister Park.
Cr Edwards disagreed and said we ought to do it by ourselves, or substitute for Lord Masham the South Kirkby, Featherstone and Hemsworth Collieries Ltd. Cr Garritty said why not ask both?
The chairman. Cr Holiday, said he could not promise anything, but if the workers of Featherstone were so much in earnest about this park why didn't they show it by making a determined effort to raise the purchase money? It was his Lordship's policy to help those who helped themselves. This union of employees and employers was very desirable, but it was not fair one side should be asked to do it all.
DEATH OF JOHN WALMSLEY
FATALLY INJURED SAVING WORKMATE
John Walmsley died in February aged 82. He came to Featherstone over 50
years ago as a contractor and undertaker, and he became a large
property owner. He retired from business eight years ago and had
suffered from ill-health for a few years relinquishing all his public
duties.
During his time in Featherstone he was Overseer of the Poor, a member
of the council, a Guardian of the Poor, on the Featherstone School
Board, a manager of Featherstone National School, and a Justice of the
Peace. He was twice chairman of the council but declined a third year.
He was a prominent member of the Primitive Methodists and was a prime
mover in the building of a chapel on North Featherstone Lane next to his
home, Mount Pleasant House. He was a Sunday School teacher for many
years and taught a young men's class.
His will was published in May and the gross value of the estate was
£30,168. He made provision for his wife during her lifetime and the
residue equally between his four children.
John Walmsley's house near Cressey's Corner is shown above on an enlargement
from a postcard. The Primitive Methodist Chapel with the schoolroom
behind is on the Featherstone Heritage Group photo below.
FATALLY INJURED SAVING WORKMATE
An inquest was held in March into the death of Benjamin Firnstone aged
66 of Leeds Terrace. He was working at the top of an incline in
Featherstone Main Colliery lowering full tubs down one at a time to
George Wright of Ivy Street who was emptying them. He used lockers to
slow them down but forgot to uncouple them and two tubs set off. He
tried to control them but ended up being trapped when they ran into
another tub at the bottom. He was seriously hurt and was taken to
Clayton Hospital where he died the next day from pneumonia.
When the coroner asked Mr Wright how Mr Firnstone came to be in front
of the tubs he said I think he was trying to save me from being hurt.
The coroner returned a verdict of accidental death and said no doubt the
poor fellow had received his fatal injuries by attempting to save the
other man from being crushed.
Mr Darlington, the colliery manager, said Mr Firnstone had worked at the colliery for 40 years, and when he became too old
to work at the coal face they found him a lighter job. That was always
the custom which they did with their old servants. He regretted very
much Mr Firnstone had lost his life by such an unfortunate accident. He
was highly regarded by his employers and his fellow workmen.
BIGAMY AND ADULTERY
In
March Harriet Halford of Featherstone charged Henry Halford of Halifax
with desertion. They were married in 1911 and had two children. Henry
joined the army in 1914 and until January 1919 Harriet received
separation allowance. In August last year he bigamously married a woman
at Chatham and was sent to prison for six months. He had not lived with
Harriet since demobilisation.
She was said to be living with Adam Hirst and was expecting his child.
She said she did not misconduct herself with Hirst until her husband
repeatedly refused to provide for her and the children. She said she had
kept herself right and worked for the children and was not going down
on her knees to ask him to return to her.
Henry said he would take his two children who could live with his
mother. Harriet said she could look after them and always had done. The
hearing was adjourned for a month and the Police Court Missioner was to
see the parties, the defendant to pay his wife 30s a week.
At the resumed hearing in April it was alleged Henry Halford was living
with a Haifax woman at his mother's house. He denied it. Harriet asked
for a maintenance order for the children. Henry said he was willing to
keep the children and asked for them to be given into his mother's
custody.
The chairman said the Bench's opinion is neither party deserve the
slightest consideration. All we are concerned about is the children. The
charge against Henry Halford was dismissed and no order was made about
the children.
THE LABOUR PARTY AND THE COUNCIL
At the first council meeting of the 1920-21 year in April Cr Poppleton
proposed Cr Holiday for chairman. He described him as a man of great
experience, who was in a better position than any other member for
carrying out the duties properly, and who had for years past discharged
those duties ably.
Cr
Ryan proposed Cr Evans. He said a Labour man had never held the
position, and now that Labour had five direct representatives and
another had been elected as an Independent Labour man he thought a
Labour man should be chairman. Cr Holiday had been a very good chairman
but he ought not to monopolise the position. The chairmanship should go
round providing the member was qualified for the position.
Cr
Garritty said no-one would dispute Cr Holiday's qualifications but it
was not right the office should become the monopoly of any man. Cr
Oakley said he did not believe in it going round. It was admitted they
had a good chairman and they should stick to him. He was not going to be
bound by any resolution of the Labour party. He would vote for whom he
liked.
Cr
Evans lost by five votes to four, and then Cr Holiday was elected
unanimously. He said he deprecated the remarks as to there being two
parties on the council - Labour as antagonistic to the other. He had
always tried to avoid any suggestion of party, and he trusted party
politics would not interfere with their work, and that all would try to
do their best for the ratepayers.
Cr Evans said they were the true representatives of labour but not in
any narrow sense. They were of the workers and were thus more easily
approachable than men like the chairman. Cr Holiday said I am sorry if
that is so.
MR GARRITTY RETIRES
Mr Tom Garritty had been secretary of the Ackton Hall Colliery Branch
of the Yorkshire Miners' Association for over 15 years. He retired in
May because of ill-health and a presentation was made to him in the
Featherstone Hotel to mark the miners' appreciation of his work. Mr J J
Murphy presented him with a gold watch and a gold medal, and Mrs
Garritty was presented with a gold chain.
Mr Murphy said Mr Garritty was known throughout Yorkshire for the
soundness of his advice on compensation matters, and time again he had
succeeded in obtaining compensation for members when the committee would
have given up hope. Throughout the 15 years he must have obtained
£1,000 for members which might have been lost but for his expert
knowledge and his determination to see these cases through. On behalf of
the branch he wished Mr Garritty all good, and hoped he would recover
his health.
Mr Garritty said he received the gifts with pleasure. When he accepted
the office he made up his mind to do his duty, and he felt he could
safely claim to have done this. He had done his best to get to know
everything about compensation matters, and he was glad this part of his
work had been very successful.
Mr E Evans of Featherstone Square was the new secretary.
FEATHERSTONE ROVERS RECORD SEASON
The annual report in June for Featherstone Rovers showed they had
turned round a deficit of £60 from last season into a profit of £116
even though ground improvements had been paid for including a
grandstand. During the season 41 games had been won and seven lost. The
team won the Wakefield and District League and Cup, and the Leeds and
District League and Cup. The Express commented the players were
the best paid junior team in the Northern Union, and the outlook for
next season, both from a playing and financial viewpoint is rosy. Their
present proud position must be particularly gratifying to Cr Johnson and
a few others who stuck to the club in the darkest days.
The
annual meeting was held two weeks later. The chairman, George Johnson,
said those present who with him had helped to fight an uphill battle for
many years, would rejoice that for the first time in the club's history
there was a credit balance. Featherstone Rovers had the honour of being
the premier junior club in the Northern Union. He hoped the Rovers
would be so successful next season as to justify their applying for
admission to the Northern Rugby League.
In August there was a get together at the Junction Hotel to present the team with their medals. Mr J W McTrusty, manager of Ackton Hall Colliery, acted as chairman. He said winning four trophies was a grand record, and not only the players and members but Featherstone folk generally were proud of it in their heart. He trusted the Rovers would always keep in mind promotion to the Northern Rugby League.
George Johnson presented the players with their cup winners medals and said they had had a brilliant season, and they had had no superiors and few equals in junior football. This season's prospects were very bright.
Mr McTrusty, on behalf of the players and committee, presented George Johnson with a gold medal as a mark of their esteem. Mr Johnson said the gift was a great surprise. He had been chairman for 14 years and they had been through some dark days. Now they were in the sunshine. Before going into the senior league they must put their house in order. They needed a new pavilion and other improvements. This could be secured by all pulling together. He felt sure this season would be even more successful than the last.
A later presentation of another gold medal was made to George Johnson on behalf of the supporters inscribed to acknowledge his work for the club since 1902.
 |
| The Rovers team with their cups. |
In August there was a get together at the Junction Hotel to present the team with their medals. Mr J W McTrusty, manager of Ackton Hall Colliery, acted as chairman. He said winning four trophies was a grand record, and not only the players and members but Featherstone folk generally were proud of it in their heart. He trusted the Rovers would always keep in mind promotion to the Northern Rugby League.
George Johnson presented the players with their cup winners medals and said they had had a brilliant season, and they had had no superiors and few equals in junior football. This season's prospects were very bright.
Mr McTrusty, on behalf of the players and committee, presented George Johnson with a gold medal as a mark of their esteem. Mr Johnson said the gift was a great surprise. He had been chairman for 14 years and they had been through some dark days. Now they were in the sunshine. Before going into the senior league they must put their house in order. They needed a new pavilion and other improvements. This could be secured by all pulling together. He felt sure this season would be even more successful than the last.
A later presentation of another gold medal was made to George Johnson on behalf of the supporters inscribed to acknowledge his work for the club since 1902.
A SCHOOL WAR MEMORIAL
The culmination of North Featherstone Lane Junior Mixed School's war
work was obtaining money to provide a memorial tablet containing the
names of 27 former pupils. It was made of brass on an oak plinth and it was installed in the school in November in front of a large gathering presided
over by Revd H S Rogers. Miss Alexander, the headmistress, said she was
unable to express her heartfelt thanks for the parents of the dear and
noble boys, but she assured them the teachers and herself valued their
presence.
Revd Rogers said their boys had passed with honour to the other side
and were awaiting the grand reunion. Col Moxon unveiled the memorial and
said how fine a thing it was for the staff and children to raise money
for such a grand object. That beautiful tablet was a credit to all
concerned.
There was also a roll of honour prepared by Percy Rothera which was hung in the school. This together with the tablet cost £46 10s all of which had been raised by the school's efforts.
There was also a roll of honour prepared by Percy Rothera which was hung in the school. This together with the tablet cost £46 10s all of which had been raised by the school's efforts.
FEATHERSTONE FOOTBALLER'S DEATH
THE LISTER BATHS
An inquest was held in November on George Randall aged 25 of Robbins
Terrace who collapsed during a football match at Whitwood. Edward
Beevers, the goalkeeper for Whitwood Wesleyans, said half an hour into
the game he saw Randall lying on the ground. He ran to him and picked
him up. He was carried from the playing area and then from the field.
William Tolson of Whitwood saw that Randall was apparently dead and the
body was taken to his house and Dr Johnson called. he confirmed the
death and the body was taken to the mortuary. Dr Johnson told the
inquest Randall's heart was dilated and both lungs deeply congested, and
he formed the opinion death was due to syncope, consequent on dilation
of the heart, due to over-exertion.
Mr Redpath, foreman of the jury, said he understood Randall had been
gassed in the war and asked if this would cause his death. Dr Johnson
replied it might produce the condition of the lungs but would not result
in death. A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical
evidence.
THE LISTER BATHS
The council asked Mr Bilson to prepare a report on the first ten years
of the Lister Baths. Published in December it began "When the baths were
first opened swimming in Featherstone was practically nil. At the
present time it is rare to see an adult Featherstonian who visits the
swimming bath who cannot swim. 304 ladies and gentlemen gained
certificates and medallions from the Royal Life Saving Society. During
the war some of these young men were not only able to save their own
life but were able to save the life of others through the knowledge they
had gained.
"Jonah Baggott saved the life of a fellow soldier by diving from the
deck of a steamer while crossing to France. Thomas Gwynne had to jump
into the river while crossing a bridge to save himself from the heavy
machine-gun fire. He saved himself and helped his comrades to the bank. H
Wagner saved the life of a soldier in a river in France."
So far 75,160 school children had received instruction in swimming,
diving, and life-saving. The number of adult visitors per year had
varied between 17,823 and 21,881.
A DEPUTY'S MYSTERIOUS DEATH
An
inquest was held in the Gospel Hall in December into the death of John
Lakin, a deputy aged 66 of Featherstone Lane, who died in an accident at
Featherstone Main Colliery. David Davis said he spoke to Lakin as he
passed going towards the engine house. Directly afterwards he heard
Martin Winter shouting from about ten yards away. When he got there he
found Lakin under the first two tubs of a run of five. Three men lifted
the tubs and got Lakin out but he was dead.
Martin Winter said he was driving five full tubs with a pony and he was
behind the last one. He did not see anything of the deputy but when he
uncoupled the pony he saw a man's boot protruding from under the tubs.
The inspector of mines said Winter should have been at the pony's head
instead of at the back, but Mr Darlington, the manager, said Winter was a
regular driver and had not broken any regulations.
Mr Darlington said Lakin was walking with a light on a good wide road
and should have been able to see anything that was coming. The coroner
asked the inspector if he had formed an opinion as to how this man came
by his death. The inspector said there is nothing to form an opinion on.
The coroner summing up said there was no evidence to even suggest how
he came to be under the tubs. This was a mystery and would probably
always remain a mystery. There was no suggestion of negligence or
culpability. The jury returned a verdict of death by misadventure.
1920 NEWS ITEMS
Mr Perry said his wife left him 17 years ago and until recently had been up north keeping house for another man. He had been told they had been wed. He admitted they had stayed together recently at his step-daughter's house.
Mrs Perry denied the second "marriage" and said she was nothing but a housekeeper. She left Mr Perry originally because they were turned out into the street for not paying the rent. Mr Perry would not work at that time. The Bench ordered him to pay 3s 6d a week.
A
presentation was made to Mrs Darlington by some of the women in whose
lives she had taken a deep and practical interest during the time their
husbands and sons were on military service. It took the form of an
illuminated address printed on vellum and framed in oak. It read "We the
mothers and widows of the Featherstone soldiers who served in the Great
War 1914 to 1919 desire to give expression to our regard for you, to
mark our appreciation, and to thank you from our hearts for all you
kindness to us, and for your unfailing devotion to our welfare during
the time of our anxiety. We hope that you will have a long life of
health and happiness, and enjoy the blessing of Peace". Note: the Express report does say 1919, which refers to the Treaty of Versailles signed that year and formally ending the Great War.
Once again the railway company refused to have a subway at the Church Fields level crossing stating their usual reasons. There was a good view on the line in both directions; if reasonable care was taken there was no greater risk to children and adults using the crossing than there was in connection with ordinary street traffic; and there was no necessity for carrying out any special work. The Ministry of Transport pointed out the company were not under any legal obligation to provide a footbridge or subway.
There was a full hall in the Assembly Rooms for a visit of blind musicians from St Dunstan's in aid of their hostel for blinded soldiers and sailors. The Express report said not for many years had the room been so packed and many had to be turned away. The total sum raised from subscriptions, tickets, postcards and programmes was £90 13s 6d.
The Tradesmens' Association meeting decided to support the council in their effort to get the gas supply improved and telling the electricity company to get a move on with its proposal to install electricity in Featherstone. They also agreed to ask the postmaster at Pontefract for an earlier morning delivery and a later collection time. Tetley's brewery were to be asked to restart and keep going the clock on the Junction Hotel or hand it over to the association to put in a more central position and maintain.
An Ackton Hall Colliery pony driver was summonsed for stealing 50s belonging to George Richardson who had drawn his wages before going to work in the Warren House Seam. He had hung up his clothes and later found the money missing. He reported it to the deputy, Emanuel Machin, who ordered the three drivers in the district to be searched. The money was found in Richardson's stocking.
Inspector Battye said the defendant was on probation for a previous offence, and the probation officer said he had had no trouble with him. The colliery company said they were prepared to take him back and the Bench fined him 5s.
At the annual meeting of the Featherstone and District Butchers' Association at the Traveller's Hotel a presentation of two easy chairs was made to Mr S S Hargreaves the past president who had retired from business. Mr Willie Hemingway, the new president, said Mr Hargreaves had been the president through the trying period of rationing and had been most unselfish in his work. He had seen to the needs of other butchers before his own and they could not have had a better president.
Mr Hargreaves said he had worked night and day to ensure Featherstone folk had their meat. Many times he had nicely got to rest when he was aroused to perform the duties of special constable. He was thankful those days were gone.
FEBRUARY When the 9.19pm train arrived at Featherstone it was very late and there was a rush for seats. Mr Thackray and family members were returning to Leeds and in trying to enter a compartment he fell between the platform and the train. Mrs Galloway went to his assistance but also fell. All this happened while the train was pulling up. The wheel of a coach passed over Mrs Galloway's leg severing it. Mr Thackray sustained a scalp wound and suffered from shock. Drs Steven and Finch did everything possible for the injured persons who were then taken to Clayton Hospital in the Ackton Hall Colliery ambulance.
Mr H Marriott of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company wrote to the council to say a scheme to meet the council's concerns was being prepared and would be put before the directors.
The council asked Wakefield Corporation to agree a 20 years' contract for water with a daily minimum of 250,000 gallons and a maximum of 375,000 gallons, reconsideration every five years, and charges to be adjusted yearly on actual cost plus 5%.
Thirty Featherstone and Purston miners were in court charged with non-payment of Poor Law Relief granted on loan during the last coal strike. They were all ordered to make repayment.
Frederick Smith of Pontefract and Harry Pearson of Featherstone were charged with riding on a tub at Featherstone Main Colliery. Charles Richard Davis, undermanager, said it was a dangerous practice and had resulted in serious accidents, and the defendants had been warned before. The chairman said they would be fined 20s each, and unless more notice was taken in these cases the Bench would be compelled to commit them to prison.
MARCH Cr Ryan had sent a letter to the council saying he had decided to resign his seat on the council because after his accident he was not able to devote as much time to the duties as he would like. At the council meeting he said Purston Ward electors had pressed him to remain in office and he had decided to do so from the view-point of duty. The chairman said they would all be glad Cr Ryan was to remain.
At the council meeting a rate of 3s 6d was proposed. Cr Poppleton asked why it had been raised. The chairman said they had to raise the rate because of an increased call from the county council. Cr Ryan said he was against the rise until Featherstone had used all their money in Government securities. The chairman said even with a 3s 6d rate they would have to use that money.
James Margetson, an ex-soldier, was given a pass for 8d at the War Pensions Office in Pontefract for his return fare to Featherstone. He altered it to a value of 10s 8d and presented it at Featherstone Post Office and was paid out. When it was found to have been altered he was taken to court. The chairman said these cases were constantly occurring and the Bench were determined to stop them. The next offender of this class would be sent to prison without the option of a fine. Margetson was fined £10, given a month in which to pay, and in default two months in jail.
The election results for the council were:
North Ward - P Darlington 936, W Kitson (Independent Labour) 543
Ackton and Snydale Ward - A Simpkin 414, J J Murphy (Labour) 282
Purston Ward - T Turton 458, H V Chapman 322, Amison (Independent Labour) 136
South Ward - W H Scholes 245, Ben Dakin (Labour) 245
A recount produced the same totals so the result had to be decided by putting both names in a hat and drawing one out. Mr Scholes had the luck of the draw and was re-elected.
APRIL Miss Roberts retired after 30 years as headmistress of North Featherstone Lane Infants School. At a meeting at the school she was presented with an easy chair from the other teachers in the district plus a purse containing the balance of the money collected, From her staff and pupils she received an umbrella and silver photo frame. Her successor would be Miss Amy Jaques of Featherstone, a West Riding supply teacher.
The Featherstone Station ambulance team won the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway competition in Manchester against 34 other teams. The team was E Simpson (captain), W H Wood, S L Taylor, A Blackburn and W Applegate. They were trained by Mr A Kershaw and received every encouragement from their secretary and stationmaster Mr R S Bailey.
PC Whittaker retired from the West Riding Constabulary after 31 years service. He was stationed at North Featherstone from January 1889 to March 1920.
Once again the railway company refused to have a subway at the Church Fields level crossing stating their usual reasons. There was a good view on the line in both directions; if reasonable care was taken there was no greater risk to children and adults using the crossing than there was in connection with ordinary street traffic; and there was no necessity for carrying out any special work. The Ministry of Transport pointed out the company were not under any legal obligation to provide a footbridge or subway.
There was a full hall in the Assembly Rooms for a visit of blind musicians from St Dunstan's in aid of their hostel for blinded soldiers and sailors. The Express report said not for many years had the room been so packed and many had to be turned away. The total sum raised from subscriptions, tickets, postcards and programmes was £90 13s 6d.
The Tradesmens' Association meeting decided to support the council in their effort to get the gas supply improved and telling the electricity company to get a move on with its proposal to install electricity in Featherstone. They also agreed to ask the postmaster at Pontefract for an earlier morning delivery and a later collection time. Tetley's brewery were to be asked to restart and keep going the clock on the Junction Hotel or hand it over to the association to put in a more central position and maintain.
An Ackton Hall Colliery pony driver was summonsed for stealing 50s belonging to George Richardson who had drawn his wages before going to work in the Warren House Seam. He had hung up his clothes and later found the money missing. He reported it to the deputy, Emanuel Machin, who ordered the three drivers in the district to be searched. The money was found in Richardson's stocking.
Inspector Battye said the defendant was on probation for a previous offence, and the probation officer said he had had no trouble with him. The colliery company said they were prepared to take him back and the Bench fined him 5s.
At the annual meeting of the Featherstone and District Butchers' Association at the Traveller's Hotel a presentation of two easy chairs was made to Mr S S Hargreaves the past president who had retired from business. Mr Willie Hemingway, the new president, said Mr Hargreaves had been the president through the trying period of rationing and had been most unselfish in his work. He had seen to the needs of other butchers before his own and they could not have had a better president.
Mr Hargreaves said he had worked night and day to ensure Featherstone folk had their meat. Many times he had nicely got to rest when he was aroused to perform the duties of special constable. He was thankful those days were gone.
FEBRUARY When the 9.19pm train arrived at Featherstone it was very late and there was a rush for seats. Mr Thackray and family members were returning to Leeds and in trying to enter a compartment he fell between the platform and the train. Mrs Galloway went to his assistance but also fell. All this happened while the train was pulling up. The wheel of a coach passed over Mrs Galloway's leg severing it. Mr Thackray sustained a scalp wound and suffered from shock. Drs Steven and Finch did everything possible for the injured persons who were then taken to Clayton Hospital in the Ackton Hall Colliery ambulance.
Mr H Marriott of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company wrote to the council to say a scheme to meet the council's concerns was being prepared and would be put before the directors.
The council asked Wakefield Corporation to agree a 20 years' contract for water with a daily minimum of 250,000 gallons and a maximum of 375,000 gallons, reconsideration every five years, and charges to be adjusted yearly on actual cost plus 5%.
Thirty Featherstone and Purston miners were in court charged with non-payment of Poor Law Relief granted on loan during the last coal strike. They were all ordered to make repayment.
Frederick Smith of Pontefract and Harry Pearson of Featherstone were charged with riding on a tub at Featherstone Main Colliery. Charles Richard Davis, undermanager, said it was a dangerous practice and had resulted in serious accidents, and the defendants had been warned before. The chairman said they would be fined 20s each, and unless more notice was taken in these cases the Bench would be compelled to commit them to prison.
MARCH Cr Ryan had sent a letter to the council saying he had decided to resign his seat on the council because after his accident he was not able to devote as much time to the duties as he would like. At the council meeting he said Purston Ward electors had pressed him to remain in office and he had decided to do so from the view-point of duty. The chairman said they would all be glad Cr Ryan was to remain.
At the council meeting a rate of 3s 6d was proposed. Cr Poppleton asked why it had been raised. The chairman said they had to raise the rate because of an increased call from the county council. Cr Ryan said he was against the rise until Featherstone had used all their money in Government securities. The chairman said even with a 3s 6d rate they would have to use that money.
James Margetson, an ex-soldier, was given a pass for 8d at the War Pensions Office in Pontefract for his return fare to Featherstone. He altered it to a value of 10s 8d and presented it at Featherstone Post Office and was paid out. When it was found to have been altered he was taken to court. The chairman said these cases were constantly occurring and the Bench were determined to stop them. The next offender of this class would be sent to prison without the option of a fine. Margetson was fined £10, given a month in which to pay, and in default two months in jail.
The election results for the council were:
North Ward - P Darlington 936, W Kitson (Independent Labour) 543
Ackton and Snydale Ward - A Simpkin 414, J J Murphy (Labour) 282
Purston Ward - T Turton 458, H V Chapman 322, Amison (Independent Labour) 136
South Ward - W H Scholes 245, Ben Dakin (Labour) 245
A recount produced the same totals so the result had to be decided by putting both names in a hat and drawing one out. Mr Scholes had the luck of the draw and was re-elected.
APRIL Miss Roberts retired after 30 years as headmistress of North Featherstone Lane Infants School. At a meeting at the school she was presented with an easy chair from the other teachers in the district plus a purse containing the balance of the money collected, From her staff and pupils she received an umbrella and silver photo frame. Her successor would be Miss Amy Jaques of Featherstone, a West Riding supply teacher.
The Featherstone Station ambulance team won the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway competition in Manchester against 34 other teams. The team was E Simpson (captain), W H Wood, S L Taylor, A Blackburn and W Applegate. They were trained by Mr A Kershaw and received every encouragement from their secretary and stationmaster Mr R S Bailey.
PC Whittaker retired from the West Riding Constabulary after 31 years service. He was stationed at North Featherstone from January 1889 to March 1920.
PC Whittaker. A photo from the Featherstone Library Collection.
The council approved a rate of 3s 6d. Cr Poppleton objected and said all the committee's estimates had gone up. The chairman said this was because of the rise in wages and the cost of materials.They would have to cash in their War Bonds and were waiting for the market price to improve.
Because of accidents at the bottom of Station Lane the council decided to ask the county council for danger signals to be placed, and for a speed limit of ten miles an hour in Station Lane below the railway and 100 yards each side of the junction on Wakefield Road.
MAY On Monday the 3rd the Rovers were due to play Hemsworth Colliery in the final of the Wakefield and District Cup. The Hemsworth club said they had no intention of playing on any day except Saturday. The league committee decided the game would be played on the appointed date and if Hemsworth did not turn up then a "Rest of the League" side would play. Hemsworth failed to appear so the "Rest" played. The Rovers won and were presented with the cup.
Twenty-one Purston and Featherstone men were charged with gaming with coins in Banks Lane, Purston. PC Cawthorne said he and PS Mann saw them and several other men they did not know playing for 30 minute. They were all fined between 15s and 50s depending on previous convictions.
JUNE Ackton Hall Colliery won the Wood Shield in the Yorkshire Collieries Ambulance League Competition held at Wath on Dearn. The team, presented with gold medals, was A Kershaw, captain, G W Pashley, J W Brooke and J Parker.
JULY Henry and Aaron Hill, Featherstone bookmakers, were charged with drunkenness in Pontefract. PC's Harley and Haigh said they found them in Corm Market, Pontefract, at 11pm. Aaron was lying on the footpath and his brother was leaning against a wall both were drunk and incapable. Aaron had £64 in his pocket and Henry had £58.
The brothers produced Thomas Firth who said Aaron was not lying on the footpath and they were both capable of taking care and of taking care of themselves. Aaron said they were waiting for a taxi which he had ordered from Featherstone, and they were well able to take care of themselves. The Bench believed the police version and fined them both 10s.
Two inquests were held in the Sharlston Hotel on the same day. The first was on William Jepson aged 46 of Pretoria Street was was found drowned in the dam in Sharlston. The coroner said the evidence does not show any practical reason why he would drown himself and I return an open verdict and do not say how he got there.
The second inquest was on Richard Jones aged 63 of George Street who was found hanging by his braces from a tree in a quarry in Sharlston. He was separated from his wife and had been summonsed for arrears. He had not been able to work since last November. Just over a week previously he had thrown himself into a canal at Agbrigg but was rescued.
The verdict was "Hanged himself while of temporary unsound mind".
At the council meeting it was reported that in 1918, 1919 and so far in 1920 there had been 66 cases of tuberculosis and 23 had died. Many of the survivors were only partially able to work.
The Featherstone and Purston Tradesmen's Association wrote to tell the council Tetley's were willing to give to the town the Junction Hotel clock. Would the council be willing to put it on the council offices? The association would, if necessary, put the clock in working order. The council accepted the offer and thanked Tetley's and the association.
The council approved a rate of 3s 6d. Cr Poppleton objected and said all the committee's estimates had gone up. The chairman said this was because of the rise in wages and the cost of materials.They would have to cash in their War Bonds and were waiting for the market price to improve.
Because of accidents at the bottom of Station Lane the council decided to ask the county council for danger signals to be placed, and for a speed limit of ten miles an hour in Station Lane below the railway and 100 yards each side of the junction on Wakefield Road.
MAY On Monday the 3rd the Rovers were due to play Hemsworth Colliery in the final of the Wakefield and District Cup. The Hemsworth club said they had no intention of playing on any day except Saturday. The league committee decided the game would be played on the appointed date and if Hemsworth did not turn up then a "Rest of the League" side would play. Hemsworth failed to appear so the "Rest" played. The Rovers won and were presented with the cup.
Twenty-one Purston and Featherstone men were charged with gaming with coins in Banks Lane, Purston. PC Cawthorne said he and PS Mann saw them and several other men they did not know playing for 30 minute. They were all fined between 15s and 50s depending on previous convictions.
JUNE Ackton Hall Colliery won the Wood Shield in the Yorkshire Collieries Ambulance League Competition held at Wath on Dearn. The team, presented with gold medals, was A Kershaw, captain, G W Pashley, J W Brooke and J Parker.
JULY Henry and Aaron Hill, Featherstone bookmakers, were charged with drunkenness in Pontefract. PC's Harley and Haigh said they found them in Corm Market, Pontefract, at 11pm. Aaron was lying on the footpath and his brother was leaning against a wall both were drunk and incapable. Aaron had £64 in his pocket and Henry had £58.
The brothers produced Thomas Firth who said Aaron was not lying on the footpath and they were both capable of taking care and of taking care of themselves. Aaron said they were waiting for a taxi which he had ordered from Featherstone, and they were well able to take care of themselves. The Bench believed the police version and fined them both 10s.
Two inquests were held in the Sharlston Hotel on the same day. The first was on William Jepson aged 46 of Pretoria Street was was found drowned in the dam in Sharlston. The coroner said the evidence does not show any practical reason why he would drown himself and I return an open verdict and do not say how he got there.
The second inquest was on Richard Jones aged 63 of George Street who was found hanging by his braces from a tree in a quarry in Sharlston. He was separated from his wife and had been summonsed for arrears. He had not been able to work since last November. Just over a week previously he had thrown himself into a canal at Agbrigg but was rescued.
The verdict was "Hanged himself while of temporary unsound mind".
At the council meeting it was reported that in 1918, 1919 and so far in 1920 there had been 66 cases of tuberculosis and 23 had died. Many of the survivors were only partially able to work.
The Featherstone and Purston Tradesmen's Association wrote to tell the council Tetley's were willing to give to the town the Junction Hotel clock. Would the council be willing to put it on the council offices? The association would, if necessary, put the clock in working order. The council accepted the offer and thanked Tetley's and the association.
North Featherstone children were presented with a mug at the annual treat.
AUGUST The boys' band of the Port of Hull Sailors' Orphans' Homes toured the district and raised £105.
The cricket club held a challenge match between George Johnson's XI and Joe Bradbury's XI to raise funds to defray the cost of a new pavilion. There was a good attendance but the game was rained off after one innings. The Express commented "What a pity the old club's (Featherstone Main Athletic Club) fine building was sold".
Last Christmas the Discharged Sailors' and Soldiers' Association gave a treat to the children of the Featherstone men who gave their lives in the war. There was sufficient money left over to give the same children an outing to Monk Fryston Park. The trip was made in steam wagons loaned by Ackton Hall Colliery and the council. More than 130 of them enjoyed the tea in the Alpine Hall, the aviary, sports and games. Sweets and nuts were distributed for the return journey. The committee hoped to include in the next Christmas treat the children of all the disabled men providing the funds would permit it.
SEPTEMBER A meeting was held at the Purston Vicarage including representatives of the miners and ex-servicemen to make presentations to Revd H Spearing Rogers and his wife in recognition of their efforts during the war in giving invaluable aid to hundreds, and giving memorial services, advice and assistance to innumerable people irrespective of creed. Two cheques totalling £170 18s 10d were given to the vicar and Mrs Rogers.
The vicar in acknowledging the gift said it has come just in the nick of time, for practically more than half of the clergy in England today are bankrupt. If it had not been for you we should have had to face a very hard-up winter.
Council representations to the Yorkshire and Lancashire Railway Company received the usual reply. They decided their was no necessity for a subway at the Church Fields crossing or a bridge at the Halfpenny Lane crossing, or a second ticket collector on a Saturday.
The Featherstone Branch of the National Association of Discharged Soldiers and Sailors wanted premises for social and business purposes and found something suitable in Green Lane opposite the Featherstone Hotel. Lord Masham agreed to loan £2,500 at 5% interest to be repaid over ten years with nothing to pay in the first year to give them a good start. Membership was confined to ex-servicemen but there were about 800 so the venture was expected to be a success.
The Featherstone and Purston Cricket Club gathered at the Traveller's Hotel to celebrate the past season. Both first and second XI's had come second in their leagues and it was suggested they might move to a better league next season. Four tennis courts had been provided and it was proposed to lay four more at an estimated cost of £250. The most pressing needs were a separate ladies' dressing room and a tearoom.
Mr G F Goulding, the secretary, was presented with a rose bowl for his season's work. He said he had done his best without any expectation of a reward, and he would continue to do so. Mr J W McTrusty, the treasurer, praised those who had built the pavilion without cost to the club. The wood had been wangled from Mr Holiday who had not yet been paid for it.
OCTOBER The education sub-committee appointed ex-Sergeant Major Hellewell of Pontefract as school attendance officer at £3 a week plus £20 per annum. There were 30 applications for the post.
The Express announced the death of Tinley Simpson at Salterhebble, Halifax. It commented "He came to Featherstone in 1873 to take charge of Purston School which had then 100 pupils. Twelve years later when the place had grown he was appointed headmaster of George Street School, which post he held for 34 years. Thus two generations passed through his hands and to the last he remained a great favourite with the scholars. A common sight was Mr Simpson walking Station Lane with a boy holding each hand, and others following closely in train. He was for many years choirmaster at Purston Parish Church and after retiring from this post he regularly read the lesson".
Tinley Simpson. A photo loaned by Alice Sykes.
Henry Cuttle was sued for £28 10s by Fred Mills of Oldham after a collision in Huddersfield between his motorcycle and sidecar and Henry Cuttle's car at a road junction. Mr Mills said he and a pillion passenger were thrown yards clear in the accident. After conflicting evidence the judge awarded £25.
The Ministry of Health urged the council to appoint a non-medical man as medical officer but the council ignored it and appointed Dr Buncle as consulting medical officer at a salary of £150 a year, Dr Steven as medical officer at the same salary which included £30 for child welfare work, and Miss Howell of Newcastle upon Tyne as health visitor, in place of Miss Lee who had left because of ill health, at a salary of £200 a year plus £10 uniform allowance. Then Miss Howell resigned before taking up the post and was replaced by Miss K R Brennan of Doncaster.
The Council fixed a rate of 3s 8d for the half year and said great care would be needed to finish the half year without a debit balance. The chairman said with the exception of Pontefract who had a racecourse, the average for other local councils was about 4s 6d. The accountant would produce a financial statement every two months to show how they stood financially.
NOVEMBER There had been a miners' strike for a 2s a day rise. The Express said very little about it or the outcome but when it was over commented "Station Lane was alive with colliery workers yesterday, and there was a brighter feeling and happier faces than there had been during the past few weeks. The officials at the collieries were busy signing-on workers, who are anxious to be back again. At Featherstone Main Colliery some men went down yesterday, and there will, it is hoped, be a general resumption at both collieries today.
PC Chillas saw two men in Ackworth Road, Purston, one carrying a bag, and he went towards them but they disappeared behind some houses. He followed and found a bag in a shed containing a dead cockerel. Thomas Overton and Enoch Baxter were later charged with stealing the cockerel from H F Wagner of Ackworth Road, value 10s.
In court they pleaded guilty and expressed their regret. Supt Fairbairn gave them a good character hitherto so the Bench, who had said the next fowl stealers would be sent to prison, let them off with a fine of 40s each.
A letter was sent to the Express under a pen name to draw the Council's attention to "the worst and most dangerous corner they have which lies end of Willow Lane en route to the cemetery. It is also a danger to the children from the National School - thanks very much to the teachers for seeing the children round this dangerous point. When motors from Leeds, Tadcaster and Castleford are passing daily I have heard many persons scream. Only this last week a butcher in Featherstone nearly threw his motor on its side in saving a little girl's life".
Henry Cuttle was sued for £28 10s by Fred Mills of Oldham after a collision in Huddersfield between his motorcycle and sidecar and Henry Cuttle's car at a road junction. Mr Mills said he and a pillion passenger were thrown yards clear in the accident. After conflicting evidence the judge awarded £25.
The Ministry of Health urged the council to appoint a non-medical man as medical officer but the council ignored it and appointed Dr Buncle as consulting medical officer at a salary of £150 a year, Dr Steven as medical officer at the same salary which included £30 for child welfare work, and Miss Howell of Newcastle upon Tyne as health visitor, in place of Miss Lee who had left because of ill health, at a salary of £200 a year plus £10 uniform allowance. Then Miss Howell resigned before taking up the post and was replaced by Miss K R Brennan of Doncaster.
The Council fixed a rate of 3s 8d for the half year and said great care would be needed to finish the half year without a debit balance. The chairman said with the exception of Pontefract who had a racecourse, the average for other local councils was about 4s 6d. The accountant would produce a financial statement every two months to show how they stood financially.
NOVEMBER There had been a miners' strike for a 2s a day rise. The Express said very little about it or the outcome but when it was over commented "Station Lane was alive with colliery workers yesterday, and there was a brighter feeling and happier faces than there had been during the past few weeks. The officials at the collieries were busy signing-on workers, who are anxious to be back again. At Featherstone Main Colliery some men went down yesterday, and there will, it is hoped, be a general resumption at both collieries today.
PC Chillas saw two men in Ackworth Road, Purston, one carrying a bag, and he went towards them but they disappeared behind some houses. He followed and found a bag in a shed containing a dead cockerel. Thomas Overton and Enoch Baxter were later charged with stealing the cockerel from H F Wagner of Ackworth Road, value 10s.
In court they pleaded guilty and expressed their regret. Supt Fairbairn gave them a good character hitherto so the Bench, who had said the next fowl stealers would be sent to prison, let them off with a fine of 40s each.
A letter was sent to the Express under a pen name to draw the Council's attention to "the worst and most dangerous corner they have which lies end of Willow Lane en route to the cemetery. It is also a danger to the children from the National School - thanks very much to the teachers for seeing the children round this dangerous point. When motors from Leeds, Tadcaster and Castleford are passing daily I have heard many persons scream. Only this last week a butcher in Featherstone nearly threw his motor on its side in saving a little girl's life".
Featherstone National School situated to the left of the junction photo. From the Dr J Gatecliff Collection.
The Rovers were involved in a rough game at Sharlston. Clements had his nose broken and Barraclough had an ankle twisted after being tackled. George Johnson, the Rovers president, said owing to the rough treatment received by their players they will not arrange fixtures with Sharlston. He alleged there was a dead set against some players before they went on the field and that unnerved them. He said "This is what they do to us after all I have done personally, and the club committee have done, to help the Sharlston Club".
The young men of North Featherstone and Ackton purchased an Army hut for £100 and repaired and renovated it. It was opened by Mrs Darlington who wished the committee every success, and a meat tea was provided for 240 guests followed by an evenings entertainment.
DECEMBER
The stokers at the sewage works noticed the dutch barn on the sewage
farm was on fire. They raised the alarm and the fire brigade turned up
and put the fire out. Wheat, oats and oat straw were destroyed and the
structure badly damaged. The damage was estimated at £1,400 and was only
partly covered by insurance.
A gathering of 200 women from all over Yorkshire was held in Featherstone. They represented the Women's Labour Council and two meetings were held in the North Featherstone Primitive Methodist schoolroom. A third meeting was held the next day in the Hippodrome.
A reception was held in the Gospel Hall for the Ackton Hall Ambulance Team who had won the Wood Shield. The secretary said in eight years they had entered 97 competitions and won 33, were second 24 times and third 20 times.
Miss Brennan, the new health visitor, wrote to the council to say she was ill and could not start until January. The council sent a telegram saying unless she replied saying she intended to take up her duties someone else would be appointed. Miss Brennan did reply saying she hoped to make a start on 3 January.
The Wakefield and District League committee considered the allegations of rough play by Sharlston in their game against Featherstone Rovers. Evidence was heard from both clubs and there was a letter from the referee which stated he did not have to caution any player of either side and there was no unnecessary roughness. The committee unanimously decided that Featherstone had no cause for complaint against the Sharlston Club.
The secretary for the Sharlston Club then wrote to the Express to say it appears if a team beats the high and mighty Featherstone Rovers at football they call a special meeting and declare they will under no circumstances arrange fixtures with them again. His club would demand an apology from Mr Johnson and would indefinitely postpone the return league game at Featherstone on New Year's Day unless an apology was forthcoming.
An inquest was held on Nellie Tartt, the 18 months old child of Edward and Daisy Tartt of Victoria Street. The mother said on 17 November she placed a bowl of hot water containing a lamb shank on the table, Her attention was called to another child and hearing a scream she saw Nellie had pulled the bowl over.
Dr Kidd said she was taken to the Dispensary the same day. Dr Poole said Nellie recovered from the shock and began to improve but on 22 December there was a change for the worse and she developed broncho-pneumonia and died on 26 December. A verdict of death by misadventure was returned.