Fred Sanctuary was the son of Jacob Sanctuary. Jacob was born 1843 in Norfolk. He married Margaret Ann Brook 18 May 1867 at Kirkgate Chapel Bradford. In 1871 & 1881 they lived at 13 Titus Street in Saltaire with Jacob working as a warp twister.

Fred, the third of six children, was born 22 August 1875 in Saltaire. In 1891 & 1901 the family lived at 75 George Street in Saltaire with Fred working as a bookbinder. By 1911 they had moved to 21 George Street.

Fred enlisted 3 April 1916. He served as a Private with the 21st (Service) Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment. He saw active service in France from 15 June 1916; his battalion was involved in the Somme offensive. Fred was transferred to the 766th Employment Company of the Labour Corps 17 December 1918. He was discharged 11 April 1919, at which time his family had moved to 11 Ferrand Road in Shipley. Fred never married and he moved with his family to 25 Ferrand Road around 1925. His father, Jacob, died in 1935 aged 92.

In the 1939 Register, Fred, a bookbinder, was living with his brother Norman at 25 Ferrands Road. Fred died 17 March 1941 and he left his estate of £2100 16s 4d (worth c£120,000 in 2020) to Norman.

 

William Thomas Sanctuary was the son of George Sanctuary. George was born 10 January 1857 in Cullingworth. He married Hannah Maria Broadley in 1876. In 1881 they were living at 46 George Street in Saltaire with George working as a worsted spinning overlooker.

William, the third of six children, was born 1882 in Saltaire. In 1891 the family were living at 28 Albert Road (renumbered now as 55). In 1901 & 1911 they were living at 68 George Street in Saltaire. William worked as a worsted design weaver; then later as an insurance inspector. William married Alice Green 10 May 1913 at St. Pauls Shipley.

William served in the war and survived. He is remembered on the Roll of Honour at Saltaire United Reformed Church.

 

George Henry Sayner was the son of Henry Sayner. Henry was born 1864 in Skipton. He married Clara Foulds 10 November 1888 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1891 they were living at 25 Titus Street in Saltaire with Henry working as a worsted overlooker.

George, the fourth of nine children, was born 3 October 1895 in Saltaire. He was baptised 2 October 1903 at Saltaire URC. In 1901 the family were living at 45 Titus Street in Saltaire. By 1911 they had moved to 21 Maddocks Street in Saltaire with Henry a worsted spinner manager and George a textile worker. They lived here throughout the war.

George served his country and fought in the war. Having survived the war he married Faith Astridge 17 November 1919 in Hampshire. They had six children including William Henry (1920-2003), Audrey Joyce (1923-1994) and Lawrence (1927-1975). Faith died in 1967 and George died 14 March 1977 in Hampshire.

George’s younger sister, Ruby Sayner, served her country in WW2.

 

Edward Scarfe was the son of John Scarfe. John was born 1857 in Bradford. He married Alice Ann Burnley 31 July 1876 at St. Wilfrid Calverley.

Edward, the second eldest of nine children, was born 1879 in Idle. The family lived in Idle in 1881 & 1891 with John working as a weaver then as a stone quarryman. By 1901 they had moved to 20 Constance Street in Saltaire where they remained until after 1919. Edward worked as a stone dresser then as a wool warehouseman.

Edward enlisted 2 March 1916 with the 87th Training Reserve Battalion. He was mobilised 9 December 1916 and served with the Welsh Regiment before being transferred to the Labour Corps. Edward served in Salonika in Greece from 10 March 1917 to 27 December 1918. He was discharged, no longer physically fit, 5 March 1919.

After the war Edward lived at 29 Titus Street in Saltaire. In 1939 he moved to 58 Owlet Road in Shipley where he remained until his death in 1949. Edward had a younger brother, William, who also served his country and fought in the war.

 

William Scarfe was the son of John Scarfe. John was born 1857 in Bradford. He married Alice Ann Burnley 31 July 1876 at St. Wilfrid Calverley. The family lived in Idle in 1881 & 1891 with John working as a weaver then as a stone quarryman.

William, the seventh of nine children, was born 1888 in Idle. By 1901 the family had moved to 20 Constance Street in Saltaire where they remained until after 1919. William worked as a spinning doffer then as a wool sorter.

During the war William served with the York & Lancaster Regiment. After the war William lived at 29 Titus Street in Saltaire until his death in 1930. William had an elder brother, Edward, who also served his country and fought in the war.

Arthur Schofield was the son of Willie Schofield. Willie was born 1866 in Leeds. He married Alice Maud Mary Middleton in 1893 at St. James Bolton Bradford.

Arthur, the eldest of four sons, was born 23 August 1895 in Bradford. In 1901 & 1911 the family were living in Bradford with Willie working as a railway porter. From 1915 to 1918 the family lived at 4 Caroline Street in Saltaire. Serving as a Corporal, Arthur married Lilian Marjorie Jackson 9 March 1918 at St. Peters Shipley.

Arthur and Lilian Schofield on their wedding day.

Corporal Arthur Schofield.

They had a daughter, Doreen May, born 1 April 1921 and a son, Dennis Arthur, born 18 February 1929. They lived at 27 Helen Street, Saltaire in 1920;

In 1921 they were living at 14 Queen Street, Shipley. Arthur was a plate layer working for Midland Railway. They moved moving to 6 Albert Terrace, Saltaire in 1922. From 1930 Arthur and his family lived at 29 Ada Street in Saltaire. In the 1939 Register Arthur Schofield was working as a postman.

Extract from a report in the Shipley Times 1 February 1956:

At the annual general meeting of the Shipley Branch of the Union of Post Office Workers held on Tuesday evening last week a pleasing ceremony took place when presentations were made to three of their members including Mr A Schofield postman 29 Ada Street. Mr Schofield was presented with an electric blanket.

Arthur and his wife were still living at 29 Ada Street in 1960. Arthur had a younger brother, Percy, who also served in and survived the war.

 

Percy Schofield was the son of Willie Schofield. Willie was born 1866 in Leeds. He married Alice Maud Mary Middleton in 1893 at St. James Bolton Bradford.

Percy, the second eldest of four sons, was born 1897 in Bradford. In 1901 & 1911 the family were living in Bradford with Willie working as a railway porter. In 1911 Percy was working in a worsted mill. From 1915 to 1918 the family lived at 4 Caroline Street in Saltaire.

Percy was a Gunner in the Royal Field Artillery when he married Elsie Taylor 13 July 1918 at St Peters Shipley. Elsie was a spinner living at 72 George Street in Saltaire. The married couple lived in Saltaire all their lives; firstly at 29 Ada Street, then 72 George Street from 1931 to 1936 and lastly at 37 Ada Street until Percy's death 29 May 1955.

In 1921 both Percy and Elsie were working at Saltaire Mills. Percy was a dyer’s labourer, Elsie was a spinner.

In the 1939 Register, Percy was a dyers labourer living at 37 Ada Street with his wife Elsie and their daughter Edna Schofield, a shorthand typist born 2 January 1923.
Percy had an elder brother, Arthur, who also served in and survived the war.

 

Schofield, Sam
1 December 1883 – 20 June 1974

Sam Schofield was the son of John Thomas Schofield. John was born c1858 in Chapel Allerton. He married Maria Lupton in 1882.

Sam, their second child, was born 1 December 1883 in Oastler Road, Shipley. In 1891 the family were living in Bradford. In 1901 they were at 20 Gordon Terrace (renumbered 89 Bingley Road) in Saltaire. Sam was working as a wool comber; his father was a potato dealer.

Sam married Sarah Leach, 24 July 1905 at St. Paul’s Shipley. They had a son, Samuel, born 23 January 1906, and they lost a child in infancy. In 1911 they were living with Sarah’s parents at 11 Wycliffe Terrace, Shipley. Sam was a glass & china dealer.

Sam served in WW1 with the North Staffordshire Regiment. After the war he lived with his family at 60 Briggate, Shipley.

In the 1939 Register Sam was a fruitier living at Lynwood, Cliffe Lane, Baildon. He would live the rest of his life here.

Report in the Shipley Times 24 July 1957: -

How would you have liked to live 70 years ago, is a question I often ask myself. It must have been exciting on the face of things, and yet was it? Work in the mill as a half-timer at the age of eight definitely would not have been my cup of tea. and yet everything seemed to move in a very lackadaisical fashion. No need to worry about buses, there weren’t any, it was a case of walking! No need to worry about missing Marilyn Monroe at one cinema because there was another good film on the other, for it was a case of making the best out of a sing-song at home or at the local. Yes, I’m sure that when analysing the position closely. I and the majority of teenagers have lot to be thankful for. It was a hard life, as many of us will have been told time and time again by one of a previous generation. However, credit where due and I have found that the majority have tried to move with the times, and it must have been a difficult thing.

This week, I called on another old Shipleyite, whose face will be very familiar to the biggest part of Saltaire people, more so perhaps than his name, Sam Schofield, hawker, and up to five years ago market tradesman.

Born in Oastler Road, Shipley. Mr. Schofield went to Albert Road School, and at the age ten went as a half-timer to Salts Mill, laying the bobbins in the spinning department. He worked the inevitable three weeks for nothing and then earned the fabulous sum of one shilling and ninepence a week.

At the beginning of the Boer War, Sam went as an apprentice to Parkinsons, but remarked that the firm was twenty times bigger now than it was then.

After a short stay with the firm, he left and began on his own account, as hawker in Saltaire. He had to be up at between five and six o’clock every morning, he still keeps to this early morning routine, and travel to St. James’s Market, Bradford, where he bought his wares, which were green groceries.

He was only 18 years old and he found the work was very difficult. However, he stuck to it, with his pair of baskets, and trailed round from door to door, day in and day out.

This start of his own, however, led on to a better job, for he was soon able to open a stall in Shipley Market Place, in 1907. The market only opened on a Friday then, but as Mr. Schofield pointed out there were no buses to Bradford, and Baildon people used to walk down to the centre of Shipley on a Friday and keep the traders more than busy.

“It was a good market,” he said with pride, he looked back over the many hundreds of times had set up shop there. The rent for the stalls at the back was 1s., whereas if you preferred to have a stall on the front row you had pay the extra sixpence.

There was a bit of everything in the market 50 years ago, Mr. Schofield told me, with stalls varying from the quack doctors to the vegetable line. He can remember all the old characters who used to frequent the Market Place. Owen Conolly, Arthur Laycock and the Farrars in particular. In his opinion, the traders themselves were more friendly than they are today, and this drew many more people.

They did not shut up until after eleven on most occasions, and the stalls were lit with the ancient flare lamps which were filled with paraffin. On a windy night, Mr. Schofield often witnessed stalls blown over, and set on fire with the lamps.

During the 1914-18 war, Mr. Schofield served with the North Staffordshire Regiment, and was twice wounded in France, Comparing fighting in those days with modem conditions, he spoke of the long spells which he spent in the trenches whilst in France, seeing very little daylight from one week to another. They also spent a great deal of time marching, for transport was almost nil.

After this break, he returned to his stall in the Market, and carried on there until five years ago when he retired, though he still appears to be a busy man. The stall with his name on the top still carries on under the management of his grandson.

Mr. Schofield told me, that instead of congestion building with motor vehicles like it did in the old Market Place, horses and wagons caused the trouble in the olden days.

He remembers on one windy night he left his stall which was just below the old fountain which used to be in the Market Place. The wind blew the cover off the stall and wrapped it round the top of a nearby lamp, blotting out the light. “The new market will be a big improvement because it is on the level," he said. “I think that it should be success and pay its way.”

Mr. Schofield’s other big interest has been the Shipley Working Men’s Club and we worked out that in the last 25 years he had walked approximately 10,690 miles to reach the club!

At the present time Mr. Schofield lives at “Lynwood” which is behind the Wellfield Moravian Church, at the bottom of Baildon Road, and six nights a week for the past 25 years, since he built his cottage, he has walked the three-quarters of a mile there and back without fail. Quite some achievement, and quite a distance!

He remembers the Working Men’s Club when it was in the houses adjacent to Modern Paviors, almost 60 years ago. The present building, he told me was originally the home of a doctor, and it was extended in 1911 and 1921. He is a life-member and trustee, and has been member for 51 years, being the second longest-standing member of the club.

Many years ago. Mr. Schofield was a keen and able concertina player. During the Boer War, there used to be many drinking parties in the streets at Saltaire and off Valley Road, and he and a group of other lads played at these functions. They also formed a concertina band, with about half a dozen players. He played a few chords for me but said that he had not played for a long lime, because of stiff fingers.

However, on the whole. Mr. Schofield has enjoyed the best of health and has not had, or been to, a doctor since he was 22, over 50 years ago!

A lover of animals all his life. Mr. Schofield used to deal with horses and owned one pony for over 20 years. He even used to go on his holidays by horse. Setting off with his wife who died a little over a year ago, he would go by horse and cart to Morecambe, spending the night en route and arriving at his destination next day. Then they would spend a few days at Morecambe and move on to Blackpool and then to Fleetwood before coming leisurely home.

There was very little motor transport on the roads then, and people were much more steady, he said "To-day everyone is hurry, and they don’t seem to get there much quicker. Indeed many of them don’t get there at all!”

Mr. Schofield lives with his grandson and his wife in the cottage, and they keep pigs and poultry. He has had many score of dogs, and his grandson has a hut full of budgies.

“I don’t reckon myself old,” said this versatile personality. “They get old when they don’t want to do ’owt, but there’s still plenty for me to do, and I want do it!”

Sam died at Lynwood, 20 June 1974. In his will he left £19,278.

 

George Henry Scholefield was the son of Samuel Scholefield. Samuel was born c1834 in Mirfield. He married Mary Jane Charnard (Mary was 23 years younger than Samuel) 6 October 1877 at St Pauls Denholme. In 1881 & 1891 the family were living in Denholme with Samuel working as a newsagent & postmaster.

George, the twelfth of fourteen children, was born 27 October 1898 in Denholme. By 1901 the family were living at 67 George Street in Saltaire with Samuel working as a commercial clerk. In 1911 they were living at 47 Titus Street in Saltaire with George working as a bobbin carrier.

George served in and survived the war. He lived with his widowed mother at 70 George Street in Saltaire. George married Alice Jennings in 1927. From around 1932 they lived in Bingley. George died in 1981.

George had two brothers who served in the war; Sam, who sadly lost his life & Jesse who survived the war.

 

Jesse Scholefield was the son of Samuel Scholefield. Samuel was born c1834 in Mirfield. He married Mary Jane Charnard (Mary was 23 years younger than Samuel) 6 October 1877 at St Pauls Denholme.

Jesse, the eldest of fourteen children, was born 1877 in Denholme. In 1881 & 1891 the family were living in Denholme with Samuel working as a newsagent & postmaster. By 1901 they were living at 67 George Street in Saltaire with Samuel working as a commercial clerk. In 1911 they were living at 47 Titus Street in Saltaire.

Jesse served as a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy during the war. In serving his country he contracted malaria. After the war he was a Civilian Instructor in the Royal Air Force.

Jesse was for many years a mason with the St George's Lodge in Gillingham, Kent. Moving back to the area he became a member of the Shipley Unionist Club.  He lived with his widowed mother at 70 George Street in Saltaire, moving with her to Baildon around 1935. Jesse died 5 September 1936 in Saltaire Hospital. He was buried three days later in Hirst Wood Cemetery Shipley.

Jesse had two brothers who served in the war; Sam, who sadly lost his life & George Henry who survived the war.

 

Joseph Scholefield was the son of William Scholefield. William was born 1857 in Batley. He married Jane Ann Lister 8 July 1882 at St Peters Birstall.

Joseph, the middle son of three, was born 16 January 1888 in Batley. He was baptised 11 March 1888 at St Saviours Brownhill. In 1891 the family were living in Batley with William working as mechanic. In 1911 Joseph was working as a printer and living with his Aunt, Francis Jane Scholefield, at 9 Well Croft in Shipley.
Joseph married Minnie Alderson 25 September 1911 at St Pauls Shipley. They lived with Minnie's parents at 43 Rhodes Street in Shipley.

Joseph served in and survived the war. He died 27 November 1956 at Beckett Hospital in Barnsley. His widow, Minnie, was living at Darton near Barnsley.

 

Sam Scholefield was the son of Samuel Scholefield. Samuel was born c1834 in Mirfield. He married Mary Jane Charnard (Mary was 23 years younger than Samuel) 6 October 1877 at St Pauls Denholme.

Sam, the second eldest of fourteen children, was born 13 December 1878 in Denholme. He was baptised 12 January 1879 at St Pauls Denholme. In 1881 & 1891 the family were living in Denholme with Samuel working as a newsagent & postmaster. By 1901 they were living at 67 George Street in Saltaire with Samuel working as a commercial clerk. In 1911 they were living at 47 Titus Street in Saltaire with Sam working as a hotel waiter. Sam married Ada Leach 31 July 1911 at St. Peters Shipley. They lived with Ada's family at 11 Wycliffe Place in Shipley.

Sam served as a Private with the 9th Battalion Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment. Sam died 13 April 1916. He was buried in Etaples Military Cemetery near Boulogne in Northern France. Sam is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St. Pauls & St. Peters.

Sam had two brothers, George Henry & Jesse, both of whom served in and survived the war.

 

Fred Scott was the son of Charles Scott. Charles was born 1841 in Idle. He married Ellen Dawson, 16 July 1865, at St. Wilfrid’s Calverley.

Fred, the middle child of three, was born, 22 September 1877, in Windhill. In 1881 the family were living in Eccleshill with Charles working as a stone by mason. By 1891 they had moved to Idle with Fred working as a doffer.

Fred married Emily Jennings, 13 June 1900, at St. Wilfrid’s Calverley. Emily was born, 19 June 1877. They had two daughters, Annie, born in 1901 and Ethel in 1911. In 1911 they were living in Idle with Fred working as a stone mason.

Fred fought in and survived the war. From before 1918 to 1920 he lived with his family at 6 Caroline Street in Saltaire.

In 1921 they were living at 11 Westcliffe Road, Shipley. Fred was a plasterer working for Fred Walker, Master Plasterer. In the 1939 Register they were living at 8 Alexandra Road, Shipley, with Fred working as a journeyman plasterer.

Fred died in 1955 in Bradford district.

          

John Alfred Scull was the son of James Scull. James was born c1865 in Wiltshire. He married Emma Morgan 5 September 1885 in Ingrow. In 1891 they were living in Bingley with James working as a weaver.

John, the youngest of three children, was born c1898 in Saltaire. From before 1896 to after 1907 the family lived at 39 Ada Street in Saltaire. By 1910 they had moved to 2 Helen Street with John working as a card cutter. His mother died in 1913 and his father died in 1925. By 1918 John was living with his father at 9 Ada Street. John served as a Lance Corporal with the Notts & Derbyshire Regiment. In June 1918 he was reported as a prisoner of war.

John married Grace Holmes in 1916. They had two daughters; Eileen born in 1917 and Beatrice in 1921. Working as a woolsorter John emigrated to Australia aboard the "Esperance Bay", departing from London 1 February 1927. His wife and children joined him in July of the same year.

 

Harry Seavers was the son of Thomas Seavers. Thomas was born 1852 in Leeds. He married Ruth Wood in 1883.

Harry, the eldest child and only son, was born 22 October 1883. He was baptised 23 December 1883 at St. John's Baildon. In 1891 the family lived at 21 Helen Street in Saltaire, with Thomas working in the leather industry. By 1901 they were living at 34 Titus Street in Saltaire with Thomas a leather salesman and Harry a mill worker. In 1911 they were living at 16 Albert Road (renumbered 31 now) in Saltaire. Harry married Margaret Hunt 24 July 1913 in Shipley. They had a daughter, Mary, born 8 December 1916 and a son, Maurice, born 4 January 1922.

Harry enlisted 8 December 1915 and he was held in reserve until he was mobilised 15 August 1916. He saw service in France from 11 January 1917 to 23 April 1917 as a Private with the 3rd Battalion Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment. Harry was disciplined for "losing by neglect government property" 28 February 1917. He had lost his breech stick, periscope and periscope stick. His punishment was to pay for the lost goods.

Having received a gun shot wound in his upper right arm Harry was discharged unfit for duty 5 April 1918. He lived with his family at Wycliffe Place and later at Wycliffe Road. Harry died in 1954; he is remembered on the Saltaire URC Roll of Honour.

 

Harry Seed was the son of Nathan Garside Seed. Nathan was born 1855 in North Bierley. He married Leah Smith 1876 in Bradford. In 1881 they were living in North Bierley with Nathan working as a wool sorter.

Harry, the fourth of six children, was born on 10 May 1882 in Buttershaw, Bradford. He was baptised 28 November 1886 at Bradford Cathedral.

Harry married Hannah Maria Marshall, 2 June 1906, at St Mary’s Burley in Wharfedale. They had three sons: Arthur, born 8 December 1908; Fred, born 14 September 1911; and Albert, born15 December 1916.

In 1911 they were living in Burley in Wharfedale, with Harry working as a bricklayer. From around 1916 they lived at 24 Helen Street in Saltaire and that is where they remained for the rest of their lives. Their son, Albert died in 1919.

Harry enlisted with the 6 th Battalion East Surrey Regiment and survived the war despite being severely wounded 20 May 1918. In 1921 he was a bricklayer working for Messrs. Chippendale Bros. in Shipley.

Report in the Bradford Observer 1 December 1952: -

GAS PIPE BLAZE

A short circuit in the electric wiring ignited a gas pipe under the bedroom floor at the home of Mr. Harry Seed. of 24 Helen Street, Saltaire, yesterday (30 November). The occupant put out the fire and the Fire Brigade had an escape of gas to deal with. Damage was caused to the floorboards.

Harry died in 1959.

 

Roger Sellers was the son of Rodger Sellers.Rodger was born 1864 in Audley in Staffordshire. Rodger served with the South Yorkshire Regiment and the 7th Battalion Royal Dragoon Guards. Working as a miner, he married Hannah Marsh 20 July 1884 at St John's Royston near Barnsley.

Roger, the fifth of seventeen children, was born 1894 in Shafton near Barnsley; Rodger was working as deputy in a coal mine. In 1901 the family were living at Shafton with Rodger working as a contractor employing miners. By 1911 they were living at 31 Crow Nest Road in Bingley, Rodger was working as a wool comber and Roger a labourer for a machine maker. By 1913 they had moved 21 Rhodes Street in Saltaire.

Roger served in the war with the 6th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. Having survived the war, in 1928 he was living with his brother William, who also fought in the war, in a caravan in Dockfield Road in Shipley.

["Sellers" was also spelt as "Sellars".]

 

William Sellers was the son of Rodger Sellers. Rodger was born 1864 in Audley in Staffordshire. Rodger served with the South Yorkshire Regiment and the 7th Battalion Royal Dragoon Guards. Working as a miner, he married Hannah Marsh 20 July 1884 at St John's Royston near Barnsley.

William, the third of seventeen children, was born 1891 in Monk Bretton near Barnsley; Rodger was working as deputy in a coal mine. By 1901 the family were living at Shafton near Barnsley with Rodger working as a contractor employing miners. By 1911 they were living at 31 Crow Nest Road in Bingley, Rodger was working as a wool comber and William a wool washer. By 1913 they had moved 21 Rhodes Street in Saltaire.

William served in the war with the Royal Field Artillery. Having survived the war, in 1928 he was living with his brother Roger, who also fought in the war, in a caravan in Dockfield Road in Shipley.

["Sellers" was also spelt as "Sellars".]

 

Harold Sands Shackleton was the son of Arthur Shackleton. Arthur was born c1873 in Saltaire. He married Lily Sands 16 Apr 1896 at Saltaire URC.

Harold, the eldest of two children, was born c1897 in Saltaire. In 1901 the family were living at 15 Gordon Terrace in Saltaire with Arthur employed as a clerk in Saltaire Mill. By 1911 they had moved to Wainstall Lodge in Halifax with Arthur working as a cashier manager in a worsted mill.

Harold served as a Lieutenant with the 9th Battalion Tank Corps. He was awarded the Military Medal and he was "Mentioned in Despatches".

Harold died 26 August 1918 and his grave can be found in Windmill Military Cemetery in Monchy-Le-Preux near Arras in France. Harold is remembered on the headstone of his parent's grave in Nab Wood Cemetery Shipley. Harold is not remembered on any Roll of Honour in the Shipley area. He his however remembered on the gravestone of his parents in Nab Wood Cemetery Shipley. 

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Harry Shackleton was the son of John William Shackleton. John was born c1865 in Saltaire. He married Annie Smith 13 August 1887 at Bradford Cathedral. John was a steam pipe fitter living at 35 Titus Street in Saltaire and Annie was a worsted weaver living at 29 Dove Street in Saltaire.

Harry, the second of four children, was born c1895 in Saltaire. In 1901 the family were living at 156 Oakworth Road in Keighley, with John a warehouseman in a worsted factory. By 1911 they were living at 2 Joseph Street in Shipley with Harry an apprentice overlooker. John died sometime before 1915 and his widowed wife, Annie, moved to 40 Helen Street in Saltaire. Harry by then was an overlooker working in Airedale Mills.

Harry served are as gunner with the Royal Field Artillery. He survived the war marrying Eliza Jane Swales 12 June 1920 at Bradford Cathedral. Harry died in 1944, aged 49. Sam Shackleton, a younger brother to Harry, served and sadly died as a Driver with the Royal Field Artillery.

 

Sam Shackleton was the son of John William Shackleton. John was born c1865 in Saltaire. He married Annie Smith 13 August 1887 at Bradford Cathedral. John was a steam pipe fitter living at 35 Titus Street in Saltaire and Annie was a worsted weaver living at 29 Dove Street in Saltaire.

Sam, the third of four children, was born 1896 in Keighley. In 1901 the family were living at 156 Oakworth Road in Keighley, with John a warehouseman in a worsted factory. By 1911 they were living at 2 Joseph Street in Shipley with Sam and his father working as warehousemen. John died sometime before 1915 and his widowed wife, Annie, moved to 40 Helen Street in Saltaire. Sam was by then working in Saltaire Mills and he attended Saltaire Congregational Church and Sunday school.

John served as a driver with the 147th Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. In April 1915 his mother received a letter from Sam in which he said he was in the best of health and spirits and hoped he would be spared to see his mother and brothers again. He was unable to tell them where he was, but he went as far to say that he as "over the sea". Sometime ago he received, amongst other things, a pocket Bible from Lady Ellis Denby, and according to his letter he prized it very much and always carried it with him.
 On the 16th April 1915 the British Troopship "Manitou" was attacked by the Turkish torpedo boat "Demir Hissar" in the Aegean Sea. Although both the torpedoes that were fired missed the "Manitou", the order had been given to abandon ship. There were 646 men aboard out of whom fifty one lost their lives by drowning and exposure. Sadly Sam was amongst the dead.

The Rev P. Drummond Pringle conducted a memorial service for Sam at the Congregational Church on Sunday 23rd May 1915. The bell ringers tolled a peal of muffled bells prior to the service. The 1st Saltaire Troops of Boy Scouts marched from their headquarters in Albert Road to the church.

Sam is remembered on the Helles Memorial situated in the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey. He is also remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St Peters and the Congregational Church.

Harry Shackleton, an elder brother to Sam, survived the war, serving with the Royal Field Artillery as a Gunner.

 

Tom Humfress Shackleton was the son of William Stabler Shackleton. William was born c1843 in Bradford. He married Betsy Hawkesby 9 December 1866 at Bradford Cathedral. Betsy died before 1871. Widowed William married Susannah Humfress 6 December 1873 at Bradford Cathedral.

Tom, the second youngest of five children, was born c1888 in Norway. In 1901 the family were living at 7 Whitlam Street in Saltaire with William a machine minder in the mill. By 1911 they had moved to 18 Dover Street in Shipley. William was a night watchman in wool combing shed and Tom was shop assistant in a boot & shoe shop. Tom married Lillie Pemberton 25 February 1914 at St Peters Shipley. Tom was a salesman living at 19 Victoria Road in Saltaire.

Tom served as a Private with the 1st/7th Battalion Duke of Wellington's (West Riding Regiment). Tom died 26 April 1918 and he is buried in Brandhoek New Military Cemetery No 3 near Leper in Belgium.

Tom is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and St. Pauls.

 

Arthur Sharp was the son of Benjamin Sharp. Benjamin was born 13 August 1858 in Bingley. He married Mary Ann Clark 5 August 1880 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1881 they lived at 26 Helen Street in Saltaire with Benjamin working as a joiner. By 1887 they had moved to 33 Helen Street.

Arthur, the second youngest of eight children, was born 25 July 1893 in Saltaire. He was baptised 10 September 1893 at St. Pauls Shipley. The family moved around Saltaire as follows:-

1895	43 Victoria Road (renumbered now 69)
1898	39 Dove Street
1899	24 George Street
1903	2 Higher School Street

Benjamin died 3 April 1910 leaving his widow, Mary Ann living with her children at 2 Higher School Street. In 1911 Arthur was at Candahar Barracks in Hampshire with 6th Battalion Duke of Wellington's West Riding   Regiment. Arthur survived the war; he died in 1946.  

Arthur had three brothers who served their country and fought in the war; James & William who died and & Walter who survived.

 

James Harry Sharp was the son of Benjamin Sharp. Benjamin was born 13 August 1858 in Bingley. He married Mary Ann Clark 5 August 1880 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1881 they lived at 26 Helen Street in Saltaire with Benjamin working as a joiner. By 1887 they had moved to 33 Helen Street.

James Harry, the sixth of eight children, was born 25 June 1891 in Saltaire. He was baptised 1 August 1891 at St. Pauls Shipley. The family moved around Saltaire as follows:-

1895	43 Victoria Road (renumbered now 69)
1898	39 Dove Street
1899	24 George Street
1903	2 Higher School Street

Benjamin died 3 April 1910 leaving his widow, Mary Ann living with her children at 2 Higher School Street. In 1911 James was an apprentice overlooker. He married Ethel Hartley 13 May 1914 at St. Pauls Shipley. They had a son William (known as Bill) born 25 September 1915 in Saltaire.

James served as a Lance Sergeant with the 2nd/6th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. He died 11 April 1917 at Ecoust - St. Mien in Northern France. His widow received a letter of condolence from Captain George Gordon which read as follows:-

I have been ill or I should have written sooner to tell you how your husband died and what a loss he is to all in B Coy. He and two officers and his platoon were taking cover in a cellar, while waiting to go into action, when a shell hit the side of the house and brought it down on the vaulting of the cellar, which collapsed and buried them. It happened about noon on the 11th, and then engineers were hard at work digging them out ten minutes afterwards. I have never seen men work as the engineers worked, and it is one consolation to me now and will be to you, that everything that was humanly and possible was done to save your husband and those who were with him.
We found your husband about 6 o'clock and tried hard to revive him, but without effect. He was not disfigured. We buried him the same day beside the cemetery of the village. A cross marks his grave and soon the engineers will have put up a better cross with name and regiment engraved on it. All his effects are being collected and are being sent home. They should reach you within the next few weeks. I cannot do much to console you. You loss is too great, but I feel for you from the bottom of my heart. Your husband was one of the best soldiers in the battalion and the friend of everybody in his company. As his Company Commander I feel his death and the death of his comrades more than I can say.

James had an older brother, William, who also died in the war and two younger brothers, Arthur & Walter, both of whom survived the war.  James is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St. Peters & Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel.

This photograph was taken on 11 May 2012, at the grave of James Harry Sharp at Ecoust - St. Mien in Northern France.

Left to right: David William Sharp (Great Grandson),  Michael Barry Sharp (Grandson), James David Sharp (Great Great Grandson). In Remembrance of William Sharp (son of James Harry Sharp) who died on 8 May 2002.

[Compiled with the help of David William Sharp, great grandson of James.]

 

Walter Edwin Sharp was the son of Benjamin Sharp. Benjamin was born 13 August 1858 in Bingley. He married Mary Ann Clark 5 August 1880 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1881 they lived at 26 Helen Street in Saltaire with Benjamin working as a joiner. By 1887 they had moved to 33 Helen Street.

Walter, the youngest of eight children, was born 1 December 1896 in Saltaire. He was baptised 3 January 1897 at St. Pauls Shipley. The family moved around Saltaire as follows:-

1895	43 Victoria Road (renumbered now 69)
1898	39 Dove Street
1899	24 George Street
1903	2 Higher School Street

Benjamin died 3 April 1910 leaving his widow, Mary Ann living with her children at 2 Higher School Street. In 1911 Walter was a bobbin doffer in Saltaire Mill. He married Harriet Rushworth 3 January 1917 at St. Pauls Shipley.

Walter signed up 31 January 1913 only to be discharged medically unfit 28 August 1914. However he did see action when he joined the 6th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment 16 November 1914. Having survived the war he was discharged 3 April 1919. Walter died in 1970.

Walter had three elder brothers who served their country and fought in the war; James & William who died and Arthur who survived.

 

William Sharp was the son of Benjamin Sharp. Benjamin was born 13 August 1858 in Bingley. He married Mary Ann Clark 5 August 1880 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1881 they lived at 26 Helen Street in Saltaire with Benjamin working as a joiner. By 1887 they had moved to 33 Helen Street.

William, the third of eight children, was 1885 in Saltaire. The family moved around Saltaire as follows:-

1895	43 Victoria Road (renumbered now 69)
1898	39 Dove Street
1899	24 George Street
1903	2 Higher School Street

William, a cloth finisher, married Millicent Ann Whaites 30 July 1904 at St Pauls Shipley. Millicent was living at 40 Titus Street in Saltaire. After marriage the couple lived at 158 Union Street in Shipley, in 1911 William was working as a dyer. They had a daughter, Lily, born 11 January 1906 and an unknown child who died as an infant.

William joined the 2/6th Battalion The Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment before the war commenced. Until 3 February 1915 they were based at Belle Vue Barracks in Bradford, but William was allowed to live at home. The battalion then moved to Dumb Mills at Frizinghall and after that they moved to numerous places across the country.

Link to larger photograph >

William had reached the rank of Company Sergeant Major as his battalion sailed from Southampton for Le Havre in France 6 January 1917. They moved by train to Frevent and the following day to Bonnieres. They went to Amplier 22 January 1917 and the following day they marched to Rossignal Ferme.

William died 28 January 1917 and he was buried at Couin British Cemetery 15 kms east of Doullens. William is not remembered on any Roll of Honour in the district of Shipley.

William had a younger brother James who also died in the war and two younger brothers, Arthur & Walter, who survived the war.

[Compiled with the help of David William Sharp, great grandson of James.]

 

Arthur Sheard was the son of William Sheard. William Sheard was born c1855 in Liversedge. He married Mary Ellen Saxon 26 June 1880 at St Peter's Birstall. In 1881 they were living at Hightown, Liversedge. William was a card lettering machine tender. William died sometime before 1897, leaving his widowed wife with four children to bring up. She married Briggs Pinder 18 April 1897 at Whitechapel in Cleckheaton. By 1901 she was living with her four children, but not her second husband, at Cleckheaton. By 1911 she had moved, again without her husband, to 33 George Street, Saltaire.

Arthur was the youngest of their four children, born c1888 in Cleckheaton. In 1911 he was living with his mother and he was a warehouseman in the mill. He married Lavinia Dennison at Christ Church, Windhill 2 April 1912. At the time of his marriage Arthur was employed as a shoemaker. Just before war broke out Arthur made an appearance at the Bradford West Riding Police Court facing a charge of wife desertion.

Arthur died 22 May 1918 at Morton Banks Military Hospital in Keighley. He was a driver with "D" Battery, 51st Brigade, Royal Field Artillery. They were attached to the 9th (Scottish) Division. In 1918 they were fighting in the Somme.

The day following his death his four year old daughter, Hilda, died too. They were buried together in Shipley (Hirst Wood) Cemetery. His mother who died 23 September 1924 is buried alongside them.
Arthur is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and St. Peters.

 

Albert Sheldon was the son of William Sheldon. William was born, 16 February 1870, in Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. He married Sarah Ann Eastwood in 1898 in Skipton.

Albert, the second of eight children, was born 13 September 1898 in Skipton. In 1901 they lived in Skipton with William working as a railway porter. In 1911 they were still living in Skipton with William working as a lamplighter. By 1918 they were living at 59 George Street in Saltaire.

Albert fought in and survived the war. He served with the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve.

In the 1921 census he was a blacksmith living with his parents and siblings at 59 George Street. He worked for Sowden & Son, Loom Makers in Shipley. Albert married Sarah Elizabeth Corker 3rd Qtr 1921. She was born 5 January 1900. They had a daughter, Betty, born in 1923. By 1931 they were living at 1 Howard Street, Shipley. In the 1939 Register, Albert was a foreman wool warehouseman. Albert died 16 March 1986 at 25 Welwyn Avenue, Wrose.

William, father of Albert, also served his country and fought in the war. Albert's brothers Fred and Robert fought in WW2.

 

William, the only son of George Sheldon & Mary Pickard, was born, 16 February 1870, in Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire.

William joined the King’s Royal Rifles on 31 March 1888. and served in the Manipur Disaster of 1891, at the relief of Chitral in 1895, and at the relief of Ladysmith.

William married Sarah Ann Eastwood in 1898 in Skipton. They had eight children: Ethel (b 1897), Albert ( b13 September 1898), Harry (b 6 December 1901), Maria (b 12 November 1904), Louis (b 2 August 1906), Fred (26 December 1909), George (b 27 March 1912), and Robert (b 21 July 1922).

In 1901 they lived in Skipton with William working as a railway porter. In 1911, still living in Skipton, he was working as a lamplighter.

William enlisted 30 September 1914 and he was held in reserve until mobilised, 28 March 1915. He was a Motor Lorry Driver with the Army Service Corps and was in France from 3 October 1915 to 27 October 1916. William was discharged unfit for duty, 3 October 1917.

When discharged he was living with his family at 59 George Street, Saltaire, where they remained until 1926 when they moved to 24 Mary Street in Saltaire. In the 1921 Census William was a chauffeur for John Henderson Ltd. Top Makers, in Shipley. He then worked for the Alfresco Garage, Frizinghall. He retired on his 80th birthday.

William moved with his family to 49 Hirst Wood Crescent, Shipley, around 1935. William died, 17 February 1952, at 76 Greenfield Avenue, Windhill. He was laid to rest in Nab Wood Cemetery alongside his wife, Sarah, who had died just one month earlier, 17 January 1952.

Albert, William's eldest son, served his country and fought in the WW1. Sons, Fred and Robert fought in WW2.

 

Samuel Sidebottom was the son of Jeremy Sidebottom. Jeremy was born 1846 in Glossop Derbyshire. He married Mary Jane Towl 1870 in Bradford. In 1871 they were living in Horton, Bradford with Jeremy working as a stationer's assistant.

Samuel, the fifth of nine children, was born 18 October 1876 in Bradford. In 1881 the family were living in Heaton and in 1891 they were in Manningham. In 1895 Samuel was reported as being a porter at Frizinghall Station.

Samuel married Maria Fillingham, 22 August 1900, at St. Pauls Shipley. In 1901 they were living in Long Preston (village between Settle & Skipton) with Samuel working as a railway porter.

By 1905 they had moved to Leeds and in 1911 they were living in Kirkstall. They had a son, Herbert born 1905. By 1918 they were living at 5 Amelia Street in Saltaire.

Samuel served as a Gunner in the Royal Field Artillery. He volunteered in December 1914 and saw active service from July 1915. After the war he returned to working on the railways and he and his family continued to live in Amelia Street until around 1925. By 1931 they were living at 45 George Street in Saltaire.

In the 1939 Register he was working as a railway parcels foreman. In 1945 they were living at 1 Albert Road in Saltaire. Samuel died in 1953.

 

Otto Silvester was born c1884 near Salt Lake City USA. He came over to this country with the famous Buffalo Bill as an expert knife thrower. He came to live in the Shipley district around 1912 and was employed by Mr. W.P. Butterfield, tank maker from Woodbottom, Baildon. Subsequently he worked for Mr. W. Marshall, a roundabout proprietor.

Otto served in the South African War (11 October 1899 to 31 May 1902) where he was badly wounded. After the war he served in India.

Otto enlisted 5 January 1915 and he saw action in France with the 1st Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. He took part in the Battle of Neuve Chapelle (10-13 March 1915) where he was unconscious for 48 hours. He was discharged unfit for service 26 June 1915 having lost 5 stones in weight since he regained conscious. He was wounded in the right arm, got two bullets in the left arm, two in the left groin and pieces of shrapnel in the right ankle and right shin bone. His sight was also affected as a result of having a bullet penetrating his head. At the time of his discharge he was living at 31 Rhodes Street in Saltaire.

Otto working as an engine driver married Clara Wade 18 December 1915 at St Peters Shipley. They lived with Clara's family at 41 Rhodes Street in Saltaire. Otto died in the 4th Quarter 1918, he is not remembered on any Rolls of Honour in the Shipley area.

 

Simpson, Arthur
27 April 1879 – 19 March 1945

Arthur Simpson was the son of Joseph Simpson. Joseph was born, 21 October 1854, in Pateley Bridge. He married Mary Ellen Beck in 1874 in Pateley Bridge.

Arthur was born, 27 April 1879, in Pateley Bridge. In 1881 the family were living at Bewerley, Pateley Bridge, where Joseph was a quarry worker. In 1891 they were living at 9 Wycliffe Place, Shipley.

Arthur, a stone dresser, married Rachel Edwards, 13 November 1897, at St. Paul’s Shipley. Rachel was born, 26 November 1880, in Trentham, Staffordshire. They were both living at 23 Ada Street, Saltaire. They had eight children: -

Kate – born 1899
Tamar – 1901
Annie – 1904
John Beck – 1906
Arthur – 1908
Levi – 1911
Mary Ellen – 1914
Douglas Foch – 1918

In 1899 they were living at 47 Thompson Street, Shipley. In 1901 they were living at 20 (renumbered 25) Edward Street, Saltaire.

By 1906 they were living in Bingley, moving to Colne, Lancashire around 1908. In 1911 they were living in Sowerby Bridge. In 1914 they were at Barnoldswick, Yorkshire.

Arthur served in WW1. By 1918 he was living with his family at 34 George Street, Saltaire. In the 1921 census, Arthur was an unemployed quarryman. He had been working for John Sagar & Sons. In the 1939 Register he was a stone mason & builder living with his wife at 33 Westgate, Baildon. In 1943 they were living at 48 George Street, Saltaire.

Arthur died, 19 March 1945, at 43 Mary Street, Saltaire. Rachel died, 11 May 1952, at 7 Caroline Street, Saltaire.

 

Arthur Simpson was the son of John West Simpson. John was born 1872 in Pateley Bridge. He married Martha Ann Halliday 20 October 1894 at St. Pauls Shipley. Martha was living at 8 Shirley Street in Saltaire.

Arthur, the second of four children, was born 14 March 1897 in Shipley. He was baptised 14 April 1897 at St. Pauls Shipley. From 1901 the family lived at 18 Dove Street in Saltaire with John working as a labourer.

Arthur served as a Private with the Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment. Here is a report from the Shipley Times 20 September 1918:-

"Second Time Wounded - Pte. Arthur Simpson is on his way to a hospital in England with thigh wounds. Fifteen months ago he was shot in the jaw, and he returned to the front three months later. He worked at the Saltaire Mills and joined up when he became 18."

Arthur married Kate Simpson 14 December 1921 at Saltaire Congregational Church. [Note: that they shared the same surname.] They had three children, including Rachel Annie, born 14 February 1922, and Kathleen Mary born 6 June 1927.

By 1929 they were living at 18 Caroline Street, Saltaire. In 1930 they were at 36 George Street, Saltaire.

In the 1939 Register, Arthur was a textile dyer living with his family at 26 Netherfield Road, Baildon. By 1945 they were at 26 Westcliffe Road, Shipley. In 1949 they were at 5 Alexandra Road, Shipley. In 1960 they were at 22 Baker Street, Shipley.

Arthur died in 1984. He is remembered on the Roll of Honour at Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel. Arthur's younger brothers, Harry Redvers, served in WW1 and Herbert served in WW2. Arthur's widow, Kate, died 2 December 1990.

 

Harry Redvers Simpson was the son of John West Simpson. John was born 1872 in Pateley Bridge. He married Martha Ann Halliday 20 October 1894 at St. Pauls Shipley. Martha was living at 8 Shirley Street in Saltaire.

Harry, the third of four children, was born 22 August 1900 in Shipley. He was baptised 25 October 1900 at St. Pauls Shipley. From 1901 the family lived at 18 Dove Street in Saltaire with John working as a labourer.

Harry served in and survived the war. He married Dorothy Hannah Bentley 31 July 1926 at St. Johns Baildon. They lived in Shipley up to 1936, from when they lived in Baildon. Harry died in 1988.

Harry's older brother, Arthur, also served in WW1 and his younger brother, Herbert, served in WW2.

 

Harry Skirrow was the son of John Skirrow. John was born c1867 in Shipley. He married Nellie Church in 1891.

Harry, the eldest of three children, was born 31 December 1891 in Shipley. He was baptised 24 February 1892 at St. Pauls in Shipley. In 1901 they were at 3 New York in Shipley with John working as an iron foundry labourer. John died in 1903 and he was buried 31 March 1903 at Hirst Wood Cemetery Shipley. His widow, Nellie, married Thomas Hardaker 3 July 1905 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1911 Harry, working as a decorator & painter, was living with his step father at 8 Park Street in Shipley.

Harry married Elsie Wainwright 14 October 1911 at Bradford Cathedral. Elsie was living with her parents, Harrison Wainwright & Emily Hudson, at 7 Dove Street in Saltaire. They had two children and lived with Elsie's parents in Dove Street. Whilst working as a painter for Messrs Waite Bros. in Shipley, Harry served for five years with the Shipley detachment of the Royal Army Medical Corps. By1914 he was living with his wife and children at 32 Whitlam Street in Saltaire.

Image: Harry Skirrow with wife, Elsie, and child

Harry enlisted as a Private with the 20th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own (West Yorkshire Regiment). By June 1915 he had been promoted to Lance Corporal. When Harry died 4 May 1917 he had reached the rank of Corporal. Here is an extract from a letter he wrote home the day before he died:-

I am on the firing line, but at present am going through a course of bombing behind the trenches. The farmers go on working within three-quarters of a mile from the firing line as if nothing was amiss and the big guns boom out and shake the whole country-side. It is rare fun to watch old Fritz trying to bring our airman down, and every shot they fire is further off than the previous one.
I am in danger, but cheer up I know God will watch over me and bring me safely back to 'Blighty' . I am all right so far.
You know what thunder is like; well it is a thousand times worse than that out here. The first time you hear the noise of the guns it makes you shake all over like a leaf, but you soon get used to it.
It is funny that when a man is in danger his thoughts fly straight to his loved ones at home, and many a man gets down and prays - men even who never think of when at home, and those who think there is no God want to come out here. It will be soon be proved to them there is. The war will be over this summer, and with a bit of luck I will be soon back in 'Blighty' .

Here is an extract from a letter written by the Rev. F. G. Goddard, battalion chaplain, to his widow, Elsie:-

I may be the first to write to you the sad news of the death of your poor husband Corporal H Skirrow. Apparently he came out her as one of a new draft and was attached to the 12th West Yorkshire battalion, of which I am chaplain. The poor fellow was killed at the grenade school on Thursday (May 4th) through an accidental explosion. The funeral took place at 5.15 pm., and I officiated at the last rites.
Your address was found among his letters. Whenever possible I write myself to the relatives. Poor souls! You must have had an anxious time, and must have often have dreaded the arrival of such a letter as this. I write to tell the relatives what I can and to assure them that though away from home their dear ones are looked after, and given every sympathetic attention.
It is additionally sad when our poor boys get killed in this way, but still you must always realise for your comfort that he did his duty and died doing it, and one cannot do more. He was new to the battalion, so I had not got to know him beyond perhaps a general glimpse. Still he was one of "ours". In all sincerity I pray that God's presence and comfort may be with you in this, your hour of trial. I can write from experience of the staying and steadying power of the realisationof the presence of Christ in times of stress and danger. I have so often seen it, and may you experience it too.

Here is an extract from a letter written by Sergeant J. O'Brien:-

It is, with deepest regret I send a few details concerning the unfortunate accident which befell your husband. He was at the bombing school receiving instruction in grenade-throwing when a grenade exploded and killed him instantly.
It was my sad duty to convey his body to the camp, where he received a soldier's funeral. I can assure you that everyone here and at the school express their deep sympathy with you. Although accidently killed, he gave his life none the less for his country. He could have done no more had he been killed actually in the firing line. He was buried with full military honours, comrades from various units acting as mourners.

You can find Henry's grave in Reninghelst Cemetery in Popringe, Belgium. Henry is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and St. Peters. Elsie, his widow, married Enos Warrener in 1919 and they lived at Buttershaw in Bradford.

 

William Slater was the son of Alfred Slater. Alfred was born c1875in Shipley. He married Marie Gaunt 1 August 1898 at St. Pauls Shipley. Marie was living at 18 George Street in Saltaire.

William, an only son with a younger sister, was born, 9 December 1898, in Shipley. He was baptised, 25 January 1898, at St. Paul’s, Shipley.

In 1901 they were living in Shipley with Alfred working as a labourer for a loom maker. By 1911 they had moved to 14 Mary Street in Saltaire, then by 1918 they were living at 5 Lockwood Street in Saltaire.

William served as a Private with the Northumberland Fusiliers. He was reported missing but then in August 1918 his family received the news that he was a Prisoner of War.

After the war he continued to live with his family in Lockwood Street until 1923. It is unclear what happened to him after this. In the 1921 Census he worked a skip sider in the spinning department at Saltaire. His father and sister, Clara, worked there too.

William is remembered on the Roll of Honour at Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel.

 

Edward Slinger was the son of Charles Slinger. Charles was born c1851 in Harrogate. He married Mary Ann Bramley in 1873.

Edward, the fourth of eleven children, was born 14 December 1877 in Knaresborough. The family lived at Knaresborough with Charles working as a farm labourer. Charles died in 1892. In 1899 Edward, working as a bricklayer's labourer, married Annie Pringle in Knaresborough. Annie was born 4 January 1878 in Easington, East Yorkshire. Before she was married Annie had a son, Samuel, born 14 October 1898. Samuel took the Slinger surname.

They lived in Knaresborough upto around 1914. They had two children; Edward born 1900 & Hilda born 1905. In 1914 they moved to Union Street in Shipley.

Edward served in and survived the war. From 1915 to 1922 he lived with his family at 19 William Henry Street in Saltaire. Their daughter, Hilda, died in November 1918 aged just 12. She was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery Shipley 25 November 1918. From 1923 until his death they lived at 22 William Henry Street. Edward died in 1951. He was buried 3 October 1951 at Hirst Wood Cemetery Shipley.

He had two brothers, William & Samuel, who served in and survived the war.

 

Samuel Slinger was the son of Charles Slinger. Charles was born c1851 in Harrogate. He married Mary Ann Bramley in 1873.

Samuel, the fifth of eleven children, was born 19 January 1880 in Knaresborough. The family lived at Knaresborough with Charles working as a farm labourer. Charles died in 1892.

In 1899 Samuel, working as a bricklayer’s labourer, married Mary Wilson: they lived in Knaresborough up to around 1915. They had four children including; Lily born 1900, Leonard born 1908 and Charles Wilfred born 1910.

Samuel served in the Royal Army Corps and he survived the war. In 1918 he was living his brother, Edward, at 19 William Henry Street in Saltaire. From 1919 to 1933 he lived with his family at 13 Whitlam Street in Saltaire. In around 1935 they moved to Baildon. In the 1939 Register they were living at 21 Green Road, Baildon with Samuel working as a bricklayer’s labourer.

Report from the Shipley Times 13 May 1959: -

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Slinger, of 21 Green Road, Baildon, today (Wednesday) celebrate their diamond wedding. Mr. Slinger was born at Knaresborough, and Mrs. Slinger at Leyburn, and they were married at Bilton Parish Church, Harrogate. They are both 79 years of age.

During the 1914-18 war, Mr. Slinger served with the 4th Battalion. West Yorkshire Regiment, and afterwards he and his wife settled in Saltaire, where they lived in Whitlam Street for 13 years, before going to live at Baildon 23 years ago.

He worked for Mr. Albert Chippindale and Mr. John Chippindale as builder's labourer, and then for W. P. Butterfield Ltd., for over ten years, before retiring when 74 years of age.

One of the big delights in retirement is his cottage garden, which he tends himself.

Mr. and Mrs, Slinger have two married sons, two married daughters, and six grand-children.

Samuel died 30 August 1962. He was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery alongside his wife, Mary, who died 16 March 1962, aged 82.

Samuel had two brothers, William & Edward, who served in and survived the war.

 

William Slinger was the son of Charles Slinger. Charles was born c1851 in Harrogate. He married Mary Ann Bramley in 1873.

William, the eldest of eleven children, was born 1873 in Knaresborough. The family lived at Knaresborough with Charles working as a farm labourer. Charles died in 1892. In 1911 William was a bricklayer's labourer living with his widowed mother in Knaresbrough.

William enlisted with the Army Service Corps 26 June 1918; by then he was living with his brother, Edward, at 19 William Henry Street Saltaire. William was discharged 6 May 1919, by which time he had moved to Union Street in Shipley.

William had two brothers, Edward & Samuel, who served in and survived the war.

 

George Smalley was the son of Thomas Smalley. Thomas was born c1858 in Windhill. He married Emily Allison (of 8 George Street Saltaire) 20 May 1885 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1891 they were living at 26 Fanny Street in Saltaire with Thomas working as a weaver.

George, the second youngest of five children, was born 14 June 1892 in Saltaire. In 1901 the family were living at 13 Constance Street in Saltaire. In 1911 they were living at 3 Edward Street (renumbered now as No 8) in Saltaire with George a mechanic's labourer.

George enlisted 17 July 1915 and saw active service with the Labour Corps. He was discharged 10 March 1919. George married Selina Denby in 1920; they lived in Hirst Wood Crescent in Shipley. George died in 1972 in Claro.

 

19 August 1898 – 1 August 1984

Albert Smith was the son of Herbert Ellison Smith. Herbert was born c1875 in Shipley. Working as a greengrocer Herbert married Sarah Ann Powell, 14 July 1896, at Bradford Cathedral.

Albert, the second of five children, was born 19 August 1898 in Shipley. The family lived in Union Street in Shipley. In 1911 Herbert was a railway plate layer and Albert a part time doffer.

Albert was a member of the Salvation Army Band in Shipley. It was a bandsman he served in the war with the Leicestershire Regiment. In 1917 he married Sadie Milner. She was born 9 July 1898 in Shipley. During the war they lived with Sadie’s parents at 7 Shirley Street in Saltaire.

Albert suffered a wound to his left armpit, 21 March 1918. It was reported in the Shipley Times, 19 April 1918, that he was recovering in a hospital in Southport.

Albert & Sadie had a daughter, Elsie, born 23 February 1919. In 1921 they were living at 9 Caroline Street, Saltaire. Albert was a food stuff warehouseman working for S. J. Hayes, Chef Peas Co., 60 Diamond Street, Bradford. They had living with them, Albert’s brother, Willie Smith. Albert & Sadie remained at 9 Caroline Street until around 1928.

In 1938 & 1939 they were living at 12a Victoria Road, Saltaire. By 1945 they were at 255 Bingley Road, Shipley. From around 1955 to after 1960 they were at 15 Wilmer Road, Shipley.

Sadie died, 4 January 1978, in Bradford District. Albert died, 1 August 1984, in Staincliffe, North Yorkshire.

 

Craven Smith was the son of Fred Smith. Fred was born 1861 in Openshaw in Lancashire. He married Emily Sutcliffe in 1884.

Craven, the eldest of eleven children, was born, 7 December 1883, in Addingham. The family lived in Addingham in 1891 & 1901 with Fred working as an engine tender in a mill.

Craven, a stoker in a silk mill, married Sarah McGuire in 1909. She was born, 21 April 1883. They had at least three children - Mary, born 1910, Leana 1917, and Denis 1922.

In 1911 they were living in Addingham, but by 1915 they had moved to 9 Helen Street in Saltaire. Craven served with the Bradford Pals, and he survived the war.

Report in the Shipley Times 9 September 1930: -

FELL THROUGH WINDOW.

Late on Saturday (30 August) night Craven Smith (45). unemployed labourer, Helen Street, Saltaire, fell through a window at his home. He was taken to the Saltaire Hospital suffering from head injuries and a fractured thigh, being later removed to Clayton Institution.

Craven and his family moved to 42 George Street in Saltaire about 1933.

In the 1939 Register he was a general labourer and through the Shipley Employment Exchange he had enrolled in the National Defence Corps. Craven died in 1951.

 

Francis Emery Smith was the son of Emery Smith. Emery was born c1844 in Bedfordshire. He married Selina Sizer in Hertfordshire in 1865. They lived in Cambridgeshire until 1901 when they lived at 6 Higher School Street in Saltaire with Emery working as a labourer in the mill.

Francis, the sixth of nine children, was born, 10 February 1884, in Cambridgeshire. His father, Emery, died 22 May 1907.

In 1911 Francis was a wool sorter living with his widowed mother at 24 Jane Street in Saltaire. Francis served in and survived the war. He continued to live in Jane Street until about 1939 when he moved to 2 Myrtle Place in Saltaire.

Francis married Ruth Smith (they shared the same surname) in 1936. In March 1945 he was presented with a gold watch to commemorate working in Saltaire Mill’s wool department for 50 years. Working as a foreman wool sorter at Saltaire Mills, Francis gave evidence at an inquest in December 1945 following the accidental death of fellow worker, Leonard Harry Tyas.

Francis died 18 November 1952.

 

Frank Smith was the son of John William Smith. John was born 1863 in Bradford. He married Jane Houghton in 1887. From before 1891 they lived at 35 Ada Street in Saltaire with John working as a warehouseman. John died 6 February 1909 and was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery, Shipley. By 1914 widowed Jane was living with her three sons at 1 Higher School Street in Saltaire.

Frank, the eldest of three sons, was born 11 October 1887 at "The Hirst", Hirst Mill in Shipley. In 1911 Frank was working as an iron founder. Frank served as a Sapper with the Royal Engineers. Having survived the war he continued to live in Higher School Street. Frank died 24 August 1967, having never married.

Above: Frank Smith

Above centre: Frank Smith. For larger image, click here >

Frank Smith: Second row back, third from left.
For larger image, click here >

Images courtesy of Carolyn Jozefek.

Frank had a younger brother, George, who also served in the war. 

[Compiled with the help of Carolyn Jozefek, granddaughter of George Smith, with many thanks.]

 

George Smith was the son of John William Smith. John was born 1863 in Bradford. He married Jane Houghton in 1887. From before 1891 they lived at 35 Ada Street in Saltaire with John working as a warehouseman. John died 6 February 1909 and was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery, Shipley. By 1914 widowed Jane was living with her three sons at 1 Higher School Street in Saltaire.

George, the youngest of three sons, was born 17 June 1895 at 35 Ada Street in Saltaire. George started work as a bobbin taker in Saltaire mill in 1907.
In WW1 George served with Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment. Having survived the war, he was a wool sorter when he married Maud Hodgson Wilson in 1926. The married couple lived all their lives at 1 Higher School Street.

In 1953 through the Yorkshire Observer, George received a long certificate for his long service at Saltaire Mills. Maud died 24 December 1955 after being knocked down on a zebra crossing on Bingley Road.

On 19 December 1957, George was presented with a gold watch for having worked at Saltaire Mills for 50 years. George was a member of Salts Bowling Club. George died 27 July 1966. George had an elder brother, Frank, who also served in the war.

George Smith, above. Image courtesy of Carolyn Jozefek.

George Smith, above. Image courtesy of Carolyn Jozefek.

In 1953 through the Yorkshire Observer, George received a certificate for his long service at Saltaire Mills.
Image courtesy of Carolyn Jozefek.
For larger image, click here>

[Compiled with the help of Carolyn Jozefek, granddaughter of George, with many thanks.]

 

Gilbert Smith was the son of Kirk Smith. Kirk was born c1862 in Horsforth. He married Sarah Jane Senior 15 December 1883 at St. Georges Leeds. In 1891 the family were living in Headingly with Kirk working as a warp dresser.

Gilbert, the youngest child of seven, was born c1900 in Saltaire. By 1901 they had moved to 25 Jane Street in Saltaire. Kirk died in 1903. Gilbert fought in and survived the war.

Gilbert had four brothers, (William, Harold, Leslie and Hardy) and a brother-in-law, George Henry Bower, who also fought in the war.

 

Hardy Smith was the son of Kirk Smith. Kirk was born c1862 in Horsforth. He married Sarah Jane Senior 15 December 1883 at St. Georges Leeds.

Hardy, the third child of seven, was born c1888 in Burley, Leeds. In 1891 the family were living in Headingley with Kirk working as a warp dresser. By 1901 they had moved to 25 Jane Street in Saltaire. Kirk died in 1903.

Hardy fought in and survived the war. He had four brothers, (William, Harold, Leslie and Gilbert) and a brother-in-law, George Henry Bower, who also fought in the war.

 

Harold Smith was the son of Kirk Smith. Kirk was born c1862 in Horsforth. He married Sarah Jane Senior 15 December 1883 at St. Georges Leeds.

Harold, the fourth child of seven, was born c1889 in Burley, Leeds. In 1891 the family were living in Headingly with Kirk working as a warp dresser. By 1901 they had moved to 25 Jane Street in Saltaire. Kirk died in 1903. Harold worked as a boy in the Saltaire Mills then afterwards he worked at the Canal Ironworks at Shipley  

Harold enlisted with the Royal Field Artillery 25 September 1907. He served in India from 3 March 1911 to 16 October 1914. He then saw action in France until he was invalided home 22 Jan 1915. Having been promoted to Corporal in January 1914 he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant 23 January 1915.  Then later in the year he was promoted to Lieutenant as he was training troops at Retford in Nottinghamshire. In 1918 he was awarded the Military Cross. In 1918 his was still residing at 25 Jane Street. Harold had four brothers, (William, Leslie, Hardy and Gilbert) and a brother in law, George Henry Bower, who also fought in the war.

 

 

 

 

James Smith was born c1881 in Bentham North Yorkshire to parents unknown. He married Susan Margaret Shackleton 28 July 1910 at the Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel. In 1911 they were living at 11 Titus Street in Saltaire with James working as a caretaker at the Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel. In 1912 they had a daughter, Agnes.

James, living at 19 Victoria Road in Saltaire, enlisted 24 June 1916 and was mobilised 10 March 1917. He served as a Private with the Lincolnshire Regiment before being transferred to the Labour Corps 16 January 1918. James was discharged 6 May 1919 and lived with his family at 1 Buxton Street in Shipley. By 1922 they had moved back to Saltaire living at 5 Fern Place.

 

Joseph Smith served in and survived the war. In 1918 he was living with Milner family at 9 Albert Road (renumbered 17) in Saltaire. His relationship with them is not known.

 

Leslie Smith was the son of Kirk Smith. Kirk was born c1862 in Horsforth. He married Sarah Jane Senior 15 December 1883 at St. Georges Leeds.

Leslie, the eldest child of seven, was born c1886 in Burley, Leeds. In 1891 the family were living in Headingley with Kirk working as a warp dresser. By 1901 they had moved to 25 Jane Street in Saltaire. Kirk died in 1903. Leslie fought in and survived the war. He had four brothers, (William, Harold, Hardy and Gilbert) and a brother-in-law, George Henry Bower, who also fought in the war.

 

William Smith was the son of Kirk Smith. Kirk was born c1862 in Horsforth. He married Sarah Jane Senior 15 December 1883 at St. Georges, Leeds. In 1891 the family were living in Headingley with Kirk working as a warp dresser

William, the sixth child of seven, was born c1895 in Burley, Leeds. He was baptised 12 June 1895 at St. Matthais Burley.  In 1901 the family were living at 25 Jane Street in Saltaire. Kirk died in 1903. In 1911 widow Sarah was still living at 25 Jane Street with William a worsted mill worker.

William survived the war having served with the Royal Field Artillery. Living at 25 Jane Street and working as a warehouseman William married Margaret Ellen Smith 6 December 1919 at St. Peters Shipley. From before 1929 they lived in Bingley.

William had four brothers, (Harold, Leslie, Hardy and Gilbert) and a brother-in-law, George Henry Bower, who also fought in the war.

 

John Charles Spalding was the son of Charles Spalding.

Charles was born 22 December 1877 in Shipley. He married Annie Kaiser at Bradford Cathedral, 21 November 1898. Annie was born in Germany. 26 May 1873.

John was the eldest of eight children. He was born in Shipley 25 January 1899 and baptised at St. Paul’s Shipley. In 1901 the family were living at 158 Union Street in Shipley. By 1911 they had moved to 4 Katherine Street in Saltaire. Charles was a fishmonger and son John was a scholar who delivered milk as a part time job.

John died 25 July 1917 aged just eighteen. He was a Private in the 1st /5th Battalion of the Kings own Yorkshire Light Infantry. The regiment had been transferred to the 148th Brigade 49th West Riding division in 1915. In July 1917 they were on the Belgian coast in preparation for Operation Hush. John is buried in Ramscappelle Road Military Cemetery, a few miles from the town of Nieuwpoort, on the Belgian coast.

John is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and St. Peters.

 

William Harold Speedie was the son of David & Marion Speedie.
David was born c1842 in Scotland, Marion thirteen years his younger was born in Fort William.

William, the middle of three children, was born c1888 in Bridlington. In 1891 the family were living in Bridlington with David working as a tailor. David before 1901; his widow, Marion, lived with their three children at 15 Sackville Street in Bradford. Marion was a charwoman and William a mill hand.

William, living in Oak Lane, Manningham married Isabella Naylor 15 November 1916. Isabella was born 30 July 1889 in Saltaire to parents Jonathan Naylor and Rachel Got. The family lived at 24 Constance Street before moving to 19 Maddocks Street.

William served as a Lance Corporal in the 5th Battalion, Alexandra Princess of Wales Own Yorkshire Regiment. For his wedding he obtained special leave of absence from military duties at West Hartlepool. Not long after his wedding William was fighting in France where he was seriously wounded. He was conveyed to a French hospital, the matron of which wrote to Mrs Speedie requesting her to visit. Isabella arrived in France to find William badly wounded and unconscious. She remained several days and during intervals of consciousness he recognised her. She was with him when he died on 4 May 1917, and was present at the military funeral the following day.

On Sunday evening 20th May 1917 the Rev H. Taylor conducted a service to the memory of Lance Corporal William Harold Speedie. The service took place at Saltaire Road Primitive Methodist Chapel in Shipley where only a few months earlier William had been married. William's grave can be found in Mont Huron Military Cemetery, Le Report in Northern France.

William is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and St. Pauls.

 

Holdsworth Spencer was the son of John Spencer. John was born c1843 in Ireland. He had four children from 1864 to 1879 to an unknown wife. As a widower he married Grace Iredale 17 July 1871 at Bradford Cathedral.

Holdsworth, the second of five children to Grace, was born 1877 in Saltaire. In 1881 & 1891 the family lived at 27 Shirley Street in Saltaire. John worked as a mechanic then as an iron turner; Sam was a doffer in 1891.

Holdsworth, working as a stone mason, married Ada Anderson in 1897. In 1901 they lived at 14 Ada Street in Saltaire. They had five children; Lily (b1898), John (b1900), William (b1902), Edith (b1906) & Arthur (b1909). By 1911 they had moved to 126 Leeds Road in Windhill.

Holdsworth served as a Private with the 2nd/7th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. He died 12 May 1917 and he is remembered on the Arras Memorial in Northern France. He is also remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood and Windhill Parish Church.

Holdsworth had a younger brother, Sam, who also gave his life in serving his country.

 

Sam Spencer was the son of John Spencer. John was born c1843 in Ireland. He had four children from 1864 to 1879 to an unknown wife. As a widower he married Grace Iredale 17 July 1871 at Bradford Cathedral.

Sam, the fourth of five children to Grace, was born 1882 in Saltaire. From 1881 the family lived at 27 Shirley Street in Saltaire. John worked as a mechanic then as an iron turner; Sam was a stone mason in 1901.
Sam married Edith Bennett 1 December 1906 at St Pauls Shipley. They had a daughter, Gladys, born 1908. They lived at 10 Fanny Street in Saltaire with Sam working in the finishing department at Saltaire Mills.

Sam served as a Private with the 1st Battalion Royal Scot Fusiliers. They formed part of the 9th Brigade who were one of the first Brigades to see action in France. Sam died 22 September 1914 as his battalion fought in the First Battle of Aisne.

As reported in the Shipley Times there was memorial service held for Sam on Saturday 17th October 1914 at Saltaire URC. Here is an extract from the report:-

"The pastor, the Rev. P. Drummond Pringle conducted the service. A peal of muffled bells was rung by the church ringers under the leadership of Mr. A. Riley. The choir were in attendance and Mr. W. Sutcliffe officiated at the organ. The church was filled with worshippers who had gathered to express their sympathy with the widow and the other relatives of the deceased. Following a short address by the pastor the organist played the Dead March from Handel's "Saul". The impressive service was brought to a close with the singing of the National Anthem. Mrs Spencer and daughter wish to thank all relatives and friends for kindness shown to them in their sad bereavement, also for letters of sympathy."

Sam is remembered on the memorial at La Ferte-Sous-Jouarre, a small village 66km east of Paris. He is also remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St. Pauls, St. Peters & Saltaire URC.

Sam had an elder brother, Holdsworth, who also sadly lost his life serving his country.

 

Charles Spiers was the son of Arthur Spiers. Arthur was born c1857 in Bedfordshire. He married Mary Ann Green 18 March 1885 in Derbyshire.

Charles, the third of five children, was born 1894 in Derbyshire. In 1901 the family were living in Horsforth with Arthur working as a railway signalman. By 1911 they had moved to 22 Shirley Street in Saltaire with Charles working as a railway porter. He married Emily Amelia Wood 16 December 1914 at the Primitive Chapel Saltaire Road Shipley; Charles was working as a commercial traveller.

Charles served in and survived the war. After the war was over he lived with his family at 29 Titus Street in Saltaire.

 

Herbert Stancliffe was the son of John Stancliffe. John was born 1860 in Litton near Arncliffe North Yorkshire. He married Tamar Heywood in 1885. Following her death in 1896 he married Barbara Dudgeon Leslie 4 August 1899 at St. Johns Wetherby.

Herbert, the second of five children, was born 1887 in Headingly. In 1891 & 1901 the family lived at Wetherby with John was working as a gardener. In 1911 Herbert was working as a gardener and he was lodging with other gardeners in Ilkley. Herbert married Maude Moorby 28 December 1912 at St Pauls Shipley. They lived with Maude's parents at 34 Rhodes Street in Saltaire. They had two children; Gerald (1920 - 1960) & Barbara Joan (1924 - 2008).

Herbert served in the war with Royal Army Medical Corps (possibly an ambulance driver). In 1940 he was head caretaker & gardener at Low Moor Cemetery in Bradford. He retired in 1953 and lived at 16 Dale Street Low Moor. Following a bout of flu both Herbert and his wife contracted pneumonia from which they never recovered. Maud died 14 March 1963 and Herbert died two days later, 16 March. Harold had three brothers, Harold, Gilbert & Walter, all of whom served in the war as riflemen.

[Compiled with the help of Kathleen Armistead, a granddaughter of Herbert & Maud.]

 

George Stead was the son of Thomas Stead. Thomas married Hannah Wood in 1875. Thomas was an absent father, so Hannah raised her family by herself.

George, the fifth of eight children, was born in Leeds in 1885. In 1891 the family were living at 4 Well Croft in Shipley. By 1901 they had moved to 35 Westgate in Shipley with Helen working as a confectioner and George as a worsted spinner.

Working as a foreman painter George married Eva Judson 30 July 1910, and they had a daughter Evelyn (b1911). In 1911 they were living with Eva's parents at 22 Ada Street in Saltaire.

George, living at 31 Wycliffe Road in Shipley, enlisted 7 June 1915. He was mobilised immediately and served with the Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. He was promoted to Corporal 21 November 1918 then to Sergeant 6 January 1919.

George was discharged 27 May 1919 and lived with his family at 25 Titus Street in Saltaire. They moved to 23 Dallam Avenue in Shipley in 1929, returning to Saltaire in 1945 when they lived at 6 Dove Street. By 1954 they were living at 43 Hirst Wood Crescent in Shipley.

George had an elder brother, Joseph, who also served in the war.

 

Joseph Stead was the son of Thomas Stead. Thomas married Hannah Wood in 1875. Thomas was an absent father, so Hannah raised her family by herself.

Joseph, the fourth of eight children was born in Leeds in 1883. In 1891 the family were living at 4 Well Croft in Shipley. By 1901 they had moved to 35 Westgate in Shipley with Helen working as a confectioner and Joseph as a painter and decorator.

In 1915 he was living with his brother, George, at 22 Ada Street in Saltaire. He served as a Corporal with the King's Own Scottish Borderers. His brother George also served in the war.

 

Edward Stenson was the son of James Stenson. William was born c1859 in Holmfield Ovenden near Halifax. He married Elizabeth Ann Murray in 1889. In 1891 they were living in Bradford.

Edward, an only son with two younger sisters was born c1892 in Bradford. His father died before 1901 leaving his widowed mother living at Otley Road in Shipley with her three children. By 1911 they were living at Kirkgate in Shipley with Edward working as a coppersmith.

Report in the Shipley Times 7 June 1907 as follows: -
PITCH AND TOSS AT BAILDON.
Shipley Youths Summoned.

At the Otley Police Court, today, before Mr. E. P. Arnold-Forster (in the chair), Mr. GL A. Robinson, Mr. F. Holmes, and other magistrates-George Millar, boatman, Shipley; William Hind, labourer, Shipley; and Edward Stenson, apprentice, Shipley, were summoned for gaming by playing pitch and toss at Baildon on 25 May.
P.C. Anderson said that on the day in question he was on the Otley Road, Baildon, in uniform, when he saw two youths on the footpath by the river side gaming with coin. He went home and came back plain clothes. On return he found that the boys had been joined by three others, getting over the bridge the five youths passed under, and afterwards he saw them gaming behind a building. He was a distance of about 200 yards away, and gradually worked up to them. Ho saw money change hands frequently. When he made himself known the youths ran away, and he gave chase.
P.S. Holiday, who was coming in the opposite direction, stopped them. Hird, however, got away, and after a race of about 700 yards witness caught him. Hind thereupon threw himself down and began struggling. He refused to give his name and address, which had to be obtained from another sergeant. Miller and Stenson said they expected they would have to stand by it, and Hird said he didn't care a _____.
P.S. Holiday said that while he was holding two of the defendants, one of the lads said he had "picked up three pints" and he didn't care a _____, so long as had got so much out of the job. S
Stenson, the only defendant who appeared, was fined 2s 6d and costs, and Hird 7s 6d and costs or seven days, and Miller 5s and costs or seven days.

Edward married Maud Gaunt 28 July 1913 at St. Peters Shipley. Maud was living at 13 George Street in Saltaire. They lost a son, Bernard Gaunt Stenson, when he died in April 1916 aged just 8 months. He was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery, Shipley 12 April 1916. Edward served in and survived the war. He lived with his family in Saltaire for the rest of his life:
1918 - 26 Helen Street
1919 -16 Fanny Street
1926 - 9 Mawson Street
1945 to his death 49 Caroline Street.

Report in the Shipley Times 21 November 1919 as follows: -

An accident occurred at the wool warehouse of Saltaire Mills on Wednesday morning (19 November) when Edward Stenson of 16 Fanny Street had the misfortune to break his right leg.
It appears that, along with two other workmen, he was pushing a sack car containing a bale of wool, when the latter overbalanced and fell on his leg. He was promptly removed to Sir Titus Salt's Hospital.

Edward died 15 March 1957 at St. Luke's Hospital in Bradford. He was buried 19 March 1957 at Hirst Wood Cemetery Shipley. In his will he left £498 5s 5d to his widow Maud (worth c£12,000 in 2019).
Maud died in 1983 aged 96.

 

Christopher Stephenson was the son of William Stephenson. William was born c1849 in Scarborough. In 1881 he was a coal porter in Scarborough living with his wife Sarah Ann and their children.

Christopher, the second youngest of seven children, was born 1885 in Scarborough. In 1908 whilst living in Shipley he married Isabell Mcann 5 September 1908 at St Pauls Shipley. Isabell lived at 29 Dove in Saltaire. They had a daughter, Elsie, born 1910. In 1911 they were living at 1 Fanny Street in Saltaire with Christopher working as a wool warehouseman.

Christopher signed up to join the Army 6 May 1904 and he was transferred 6 May 1907 to the Army Reserve. He was called up as war was announced and 10 August 1914 he was in France as a Private with the 2nd Battalion  Duke of Wellington's West Riding Regiment. He was reported missing 24 August 1914 following the Battle of Mons.

His wife, living at 25 Thompson Street in Shipley, was relieved when 11 December 1914 she received a postcard from him. The postcard was dated 18 November and he told her he was a prisoner of war at Doeberitz in Germany. In his message Christopher asked that "when you write home do not say anything about the war, only let me know about home affairs."

Christopher was repatriated 14 December 1918 and he was discharged from the Army 19 March 1919.

 

Stirk, Frank Chester
1888 – 12 October 1929

Frank Chester Stirk was the son of Benjamin Stirk. Benjamin was born 1849 in Skipton. He married Kate Vince in 1877 in Skipton. In 1881 they were living at 22 Campbell Street, Keighley with Benjamin working as a joiner.

Frank, the youngest of five children was born in 1888 at Clitheroe in Lancashire. His father died in 1890 in Clitheroe. In 1891 Frank was living at 5 Sarah Street in Keighley with his widowed mother.

Frank, a wool sorter, married Ada Hartop, 29 May 1909, at St Paul’s Shipley. At first, they lived with Ada’s parents at 24 Helen Street in Saltaire before moving to 34 Dale Street in Shipley. They had three children: Edith, born 23 February 1910; Ethel, born 20 February 1912; and Jack, born 22 November 1913.

Frank served in WW1 enlisting with the Northumberland Fusiliers, 29 June 1916. In 1917 Frank was transferred to the Labour Corps.

In Cologne, Germany, 3 September 1919, he was found guilty of disobeying orders by selling cigarettes bought from an army canteen to a German civilian. He was given 28 days Field Punishment No. 2. He left the army, 2 December 1920.

Around 1929 Frank and his family moved to 24 Melbourne Street in Shipley. Frank died 12 October 1929 and he was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery in Shipley.

Report in the Shipley Times 12 October 1929: -

SHIPLEY MAN’S SUICIDE.

The District Coroner (Mr. E. W. Norris) recorded verdict of “suicide while of unsound mind” at an inquest held at the Clayton Institution on Tuesday (15 October) on the death of Frank Chester Stirk, aged 41, of 24 Melbourne Street. Shipley. In the evidence submitted by Mrs. Ada Stirk (widow), it was stated that Stirk had been in Menston Asylum suffering from mental depression for three months, and was discharged on 3 September, but that had never tried or even spoken of taking his life previously.

Since he came out of the Asylum, he had not seemed quite well, and on 8 October, when his wife went to work at 7 a.m., he had told her he was going to visit his brother at Castleford.

Mrs. Stirk stated that she returned home at 5.5 p.m. and noticed that Stirk’s hat and coat were still in the house, and after discovering that the gas would not light, she went upstairs, and found Stirk in bed in the attic with the gas on full, the window closed, and a rug placed under the door.

She then summoned Dr. Sharpe, who had Stirk removed to Salt’s Hospital, and afterwards to Clayton.

Dr. Cunliffe stated that when Stirk was admitted to Clayton on the evening of 8 October, he was quite unconscious, and various modes of treatment such as oxygen and artificial respiration were tried to bring him round.

The following day was he still unconscious and very difficult to feed and remained much the same until Friday (11 October), when his temperature began to rise. On Saturday (12 October) he collapsed and died during the evening.

In his opinion, Dr. Cunliffe said that death was due to paralysis of the respiratory centre of the brain, which was caused by coal gas poisoning.

His widow Ada died in 1954.

 

[Revised 20 November 2020]

Fred Stobart married Esther Harris in 1915. In 1918 whilst serving his country he was living with his wife’s mother, Margaret Jane Harris at 15 Victoria Road in Saltaire.

In 1935 he was living with his wife at 18 Albert Road in Shipley . By 1945 they had moved to 14 Constance Street in Saltaire.

 

Lionel Norris Storey was the son of Thomas Sadler Storey.

Thomas was born 1 November 1856 in Northallerton. He married Sarah Ann Broadley 3 January 1880 at St John the Baptist Halifax. In 1881 & 1891 they were living in Norwood Green, Hipperholme cum Brighouse with Thomas working as a nursery gardener.

Lionel, the youngest of seven children, was born 1897 in Saltaire. In 1901 the family were living at 5 Amelia Street in Saltaire. By 1906 they had moved within Saltaire to 49 George Street. In 1911 Lionel was working as an office boy for a worsted manufacturer.

Lionel served in the war as a signaller in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve.

Working as a cost accountant he married Edith Fearnley 8 December 1920 at St Margaret’s Frizinghall. They had a daughter, Dorothy Winnifred born 19 October 1921.

Lionel emigrated to Canada to find work as a harvester. He sailed from Liverpool, without his wife, 27 July 1923. Lionel settled in Saskatoon in Canada where his wife and daughter joined him in 1924. Lionel died 11 July 1943 in Saskatoon.

Lionel had a brother, Wilton Sadler Storey, who worked in Saltaire Mills.

 

Norman Crabtree Studley was the son of William Studley. William was born c1847 in Malton. He married Esther Ann Crabtree in 1868 in Bradford.

Norman, the second youngest of five children, was born 21 August 1881 in Shipley. He was baptised 20 October 1881 at Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel. In 1891 the family were living in Shipley with William working as a commercial traveller. In 1901 Norman was living with his brother-in-law, Fred Haste, at 37 Victoria Road in Saltaire. Norman was working as a printer's compositor. Norman married Lily Rhodes in 1910. In 1911 Norman was living with his wife and parents at 7 Granville Terrace in Holbeck.

The wedding of Norman Crabtree Studley to Lily Rhodes.
Photograph thought to be taken outside the Saltaire Wesleyan Methodist Chapel.
[Updated 16 March 20198 - previously and incorrectly stated as outside the Providence Methodist Chapel, the Shipley side of Baildon Bridge.]
Image courtesy Catherine Parker, with thanks.
For larger image, follow this link >

Norman served as a Private with the 27th Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers (Tyneside Irish). He died 28 April 1917 and he is remembered on the Arras Memorial in Northern France. Norman is also remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St. Pauls and Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel.

 

Benjamin Sutcliffe was the son of Aquila Sutcliffe. Aquila was born 4 April 1863 in Wibsey. Working as a dyer's labourer he married Juliet Gresswell 9 April 1887 at St Pauls Shipley. His bride had been living at 21 William Henry Street in Saltaire.

Benjamin, the youngest of six children, was born 1898 in Bowling. He was baptised 27 July 1898 at St. Stephens Bowling. In 1901 the family were living in Bowling, by 1911 they had moved to 16 Rhodes Street in Saltaire with Benjamin working part time as a spinner. By the beginning of the war they were living at 8 Rhodes Street.

Benjamin enlisted 3 July 1916 and he was held in reserve until mobilised 29 June 1918. He did not see any fighting in France, being stationed at West Hartlepool with the 4th Battalion Prince of Wales's Own West Yorkshire Regiment. In December 1919 he went to Italy where he served with the 79 General Hospital Royal Army Medical Corps. Benjamin was discharged 25 October 1919.

Ben Sutcliffe with his wife, May		Ben Sutcliffe at his sister's wedding

Benjamin, working as a mechanic, married Emma May Symmonds 31 July 1926 at St. Pauls Shipley. By 1930 they were living at 53 Wilmer Road in Shipley. By 1945 they had moved to 13 Elm Road in Shipley were they were still living at in 1962. Emma died in 1969 and Benjamin died in 1976.

 

Edward Sutcliffe was the son of John Sutcliffe. John was born c1851 in Eccleshill. Working as a cloth weaver he married Emily Robinson 2 February 1879 at Bradford Cathedral. From 1881 to after 1901 they lived in Eccleshill with John working as a fish dealer.

Edward, the third of five children, was born 1887 in Eccleshill. In 1901 he was working as grocer's errand boy. After John died in 1912 Emily lived with her children at 2 Albert Terrace in Saltaire. Working as a cowman Edward enlisted 2 March 1916 and he was mobilised 14 March 1917 serving with the Lincolnshire Regiment. He was transferred to the 49th Labour Corps 23 June 1917 and he joined the 406th Agricultural Company.

Edward served in France from 8 September 1917 until 12 February 1920. He was discharged 13 March 1920.

 

Thomas Sutcliffe was the son of William Sutcliffe. William was born 1849 in Denholme. He married Jane Thomas 26 December 1868 at Bradford Cathedral.

Thomas, the fourth of seven children, was born 1877 in Shipley. In 1881 & 1891 the family lived in Shipley with William working as an overlooker. By 1911 Thomas was an out of work labourer living with Mary Mooney and her children at 14 New York, Saltaire Road Shipley. By 1917 Thomas & Mary were living at 22 Albert Terrace in Saltaire, where they remained until 1930 (their relationship is not known).

Thomas, a munitions worker, enlisted 2 March 1916 with the Lincolnshire Regiment. He was mobilised 4 January 1917 as a Private with the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. Thomas went to France 14 April 1917, where he briefly saw action with the Durham Light Infantry before being transferred to the Labour Corps 30 April 1917. He returned to England 23 October 1917 having received gunshot wounds to his left leg and right foot 14 October 1917. Thomas was discharged 18 March 1918 medically unfit for service.

 

Willie Sutcliffe was the son of Greenwood Sutcliffe. Greenwood was born c1865 in Halifax. He married Georgiana Chadwick 13 February 1886 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1891 they were living at 5 Herbert Street in Saltaire with Greenwood working as a cotton warp dresser.

Willie, an only son with an elder sister, was born 1895 in Thornton Bradford. In 1901 the family were living at 9 Whitlam Street in Saltaire. By 1911 they had moved to 23 Victoria Road in Saltaire with Willie working as a warp dresser's errand boy. Willie spent the rest of his life here. Willie served in and survived the war. He never married and he died on 17 April 1948 at Salts Hospital. In his will he left £2161 18s 5d to his married sister, Floran Thomas (worth over £68k in 2014).

 

John Edward Sutton was the son of John Sutton. John was born c1861 in Birmingham. He married Sarah Louisa Line, 30 September 1883, at Bitterswell in Leicestershire. In 1891 they were living in Haworth, Yorkshire. John was a carter. They had three daughters before they had their only son.

John Edward was born in Haworth 15 July 1898 and was baptised 4 September 1898 at St Michael's Haworth. By 1901 the family had moved to Saltaire, living at 5 Shirley Street. John was a carter at the woollen mill, where his two eldest daughters also worked. By 1911 they had moved to 27 (renumbered 53) Albert Road. John was a horse driver at the mill; his three daughters were all weavers at the mill. John Edward, aged 12, was a scholar and part time spinner.

John Edward was conscripted 2 March 1916. He joined the 1st Battalion of the Queens Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment at Bradford 12 April 1917. By this time his family had moved to 7 Melbourne Street in Shipley. He had previously served six months with 2/6th Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment. He was transferred to the 5th Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers 1 September 1917 then he was posted to France with the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers 13 October 1917. He went to Italy with his battalion 12 December 1917, returning to France 24 April 1918. John Edward rejoined the 1st Battalion Queens Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment as a Private. They were attached to the 3rd Army 5th Division and took part in the Battle of Albert, 21 to 23 August 1918.

John Edward died 23 Aug 1918, aged 20, and his grave can be found at Foncquevillers Military Cemetery. This is in the Somme region of France and lies twelve miles north of Albert. He is remembered on the Rolls of Honour at Nab Wood, St Pauls and St Peters.

 

Frank Swallow was the son of Samuel Swallow.   Samuel was born c1854 in Butterley. He married Mary (maiden name unknown) and lived in Liversedge working as a coal miner.

Frank, the second of four children, was born 1880 in Liversedge. In 1901 he was a Private (regiment unknown) at Chatham Barracks in Kent. Frank married Frances Jane Jessop 11 July 1908 at St Pauls Shipley. In 1911 they were living without children at 1 Helen Street in Saltaire with Frank working as a railway porter. By 1914 they had moved to 26 Caroline Street in Saltaire. 

Frank served in and survived the war, living at 22 Rhodes Street in Saltaire in 1918. From 1931 onwards he lived in Shipley. Frank died in 1940.

 

Charley Clement Swift was the son of Charles Cawkwell Swift. Charles was born c1853 in Sheffield. He married Phoebe Prest in 1878 in Sheffield. In 1881 & 1891 they lived in Sheffield with Charles working as a spoon & fork filer.

Charley, the third of five children, was born 5 November 1891 in Sheffield. In 1901 & 1911 the family were living in Idle. In 1911 Charles was working as a watchman in a worsted mill and Charley as an overlooker.

Charley fought in and survived the war. In 1918 he married Sarah Ann Kitchen and they lived with Sarah's parents at 2 Dove Street in Saltaire. By 1925 they were in Shipley, returning to 6 Lockwood Street in Saltaire around 1932. They moved back to Shipley around 1934, returning to Saltaire in 1955 to live at 24 Dove Street.

Sarah died in 1959. Widower Charley married Henrietta Crank, sometime in the fourth quarter, 1965. Henrietta was born, 13 May 1894, in Northwich, Cheshire.

Charley died 30 October 1979 at 24 Dove Street. In his will he left £6,607 (worth c£35,000 in 2020).

Widow Henrietta went on to live with her friend Lily Smith at 2 Mawson Street. She died 18 February 1993 at 5 Ferncliffe Court in Shipley.

[Compiled with the help of Rachel, a relative of Henrietta.]

 

Norman Swithenbank was the son of Charles Swithenbank. Charles was born 1871 in Shipley. Charles married Mabel Holmes in 1895.

Norman, the eldest of two children, was born 22 August 1896 in Bradford. He was baptised 24 September 1896 at St. Mary Magdalene Manningham. The family lived in Bradford in 1901 with Charles working as a lithographic printer. In 1911 the family were living at 29 Maddocks Street in Saltaire with Norman working as a clerk in a textile factory.

Norman enlisted as a Private with the Royal Army Medical Corps 26 October 1915. He saw service in France from 16 October 1916. Norman was captured by the Germans and became a prisoner of war 21 March 1918. He was repatriated 3 January 1919. Norman, working as a weaving overlooker, married Ethel Maud Herdy 3 April 1920 at St. Judes Manningham. They lived at 5 Princess Street in Shipley until 1928 when they moved to 23 North Bank Road in Shipley. Norman died in 1976.

 

James Sykes was the son of Walter Sykes. Walter was born 16 October 1847 in Huddersfield. He married Louisa Paxman in 1875.

James, the fourth of eight children, was born 14 March 1880 in Bingley. In 1881 the family were living in Bingley with Walter employed as a warp dresser. By 1891 they were living at 37 Ada Street in Saltaire. Louisa died in 1892.

Widowed Walter married widow Mary Brecknell (nee Longbottom) in 1896. The marriage was short lived as Walter died later in 1896. In 1901 James was living with his stepmother at 12 Constance Street.

James married Annie Maria Stansfield 8 September 1906 at St Paul's Shipley. In 1911 they were living, with no children, at 28 Dove Street. James was working as a stockroom man.

James served in WW1. At a meeting of the Shipley Tribunal on 10 May 1918 James was decertified, which meant he was longer exempt from military service. He enlisted with the R.A.F. 2 August 1918 and he was discharged 30 April 1920.

In 1921 James was working at Saltaire Mills as an assistant in the burling & mending room. He was living with his wife at 28 Dove Street.

By 1931 they were living at 39 Glenaire Drive in Shipley. In 1939 he was working as a burling mending manager.

The Shipley Times (12 March 1941) reported that James had completed 50 years' service at Saltaire Mill and he had been presented with gifts and a framed certificate. Annie died in 1947, James in 1951.