Agnes Mary Darby was the daughter of Thomas Darby. Thomas was born c1861 in Ireland. He married Harriet Evelyn Horsfall, 1891, at Ecclesall Bierslow. They had 10 children but seven died in infancy.

Agnes was born in 1904 in Sheffield. In 1911 Harriet and her children were living without Thomas at 123 Union Street in Shipley. By 1918 they were living at 8 Helen Street in Saltaire.

In July 1917 and June 1924, Agnes volunteered as a collector for Saltaire Hospital flag days. In the 1921 Census, Agnes and her older sister, Norah, were out of work. They were both employed at Saltaire Mills. Agnes was a bobbin doffer, Norah a spinner

(Colin’s note – many were out work in 1921 due to the Miner’s Strike.)

Agnes, who never married, died in 1932.

 

Norah Darby was the daughter of Thomas Darby. Thomas was born c1861 in Ireland. He married Harriet Evelyn Horsfall 1891 at Ecclesall Bierslow. They had 10 children but seven died in infancy.

Norah was born 7 March 1900 in Sheffield. In 1911, Harriet and her children were living without Thomas at 123 Union Street in Shipley. By 1918 they were living at 8 Helen Street in Saltaire.

Extract from a report in the Shipley Times 20 June 1919 as follows:

An examination of the employees of Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons, and Co., Ltd., Saltaire Mills, who recently attended a course of ambulance instruction at the Cafe, Saltaire, has resulted as follows: —Passed for First Aid Certificate): — Norah Derby.

In the 1921 Census, Norah and her younger sister, Agnes Mary, were out of work. They were both employed at Saltaire Mills. Norah was a spinner, Agnes a bobbin doffer.

(Colin’s note – many were out work in 1921 due to the Miner’s Strike.)

In 1939 Norah was living with her mother doing household duties in Bradford. Norah, who never married, died in 1985 in Bradford.

 

Charles Davy was the son of Charles Davy. Charles snr. was born c1806 in Wellington, Somerset. He married Hannah Buller 8 June 1833 in Wellington.

Charles, the third of seven children, was born 1839 in Wellington. In 1861 the family were living in Wellington with Charles snr. working as mason and Charles as a carpenter.

Charles married Martha Penny 25 December 1863 in Wellington. They had five children, including Arthur James Davy who served in WW1. By 1879 they were living at 10 Herbert Street in Saltaire where Charles remained for the rest of his life.

Charles died in November 1898. Report from Bradford Daily Telegraph 16 November 1898 as follow:

This morning an inquest was held at Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital, before Mr J. E- Hill, relative to the death of Charles Davy (60), joiner, who received fatal injuries by falling from ladder whilst following his employment at Saltaire Mills.
Instead of fetching a longer ladder to repair a hoist the deceased placed a short one on a wicker skip, which gave way. The Coroner remarked that it was very foolish thing do.
A verdict ‘Accidental death’ was returned. Mr C. H Briggs, on behalf of the Saltaire firm, expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Charles was buried 17 November 1898 in St Paul’s churchyard in Shipley.

 

Arthur Dawson was the son of Thompson Dawson. Thompson was born 1831 in Guiseley. He married Elizabeth Pratt 1 August 1852 in Calverley. They had eight children.

Arthur, a twin, was born 14 April 1868 in Calverley. He was baptised 28 August 1870 at St Wilfrid’s Calverley. In 1871 the family were living in Calverley with Thompson working as a weaver. In 1881 & 1891 they were at 5 George Street in Saltaire with Thompson working as a spinning overlooker. From before 1895 they had moved to 73 George Street.

Arthur started work aged just 11 in 1879 in Saltaire Mill, on the same day as his twin sister, Maria, started. Arthur worked aa a wool sorter. Arthur married Mary Hannah Webb 6 April 1895 at St Paul’s Shipley. They had a son, Cecil, born 31 December 1899. In 1901 they were living at 2 Spurr Road in Shipley, by 1911 they had moved to 11 Springwood Avenue.

Arthur died in 1946.

 

Margaret Walburge Hanson was the daughter of Frederick William Hanson. Frederick was born January 1858 in Bradford. He married Caroline Parkinson 9 October 1881 at St Wilfrid, Calverley. They had eight children, but three died in infancy. By 1888 they were living at 52 Titus St in Saltaire.

Margaret was born, 15 January 1892, in Saltaire. She was baptised 10 February 1892. In 1901 the family were living at 5 Gordon Terrace (renumbered 59 Bingley Road). By 1911 they had moved to 23 George Street.

Margaret worked as a part-timer in Saltaire Mills before working as a café waitress. She married Joseph William Dawson in 1924 in Whitby. Joseph was born in 1888 in Scarborough. They had a daughter, Margaret, born 1926, in Blackburn, Lancashire.

In the 1939 Register they were living in Blackburn where Joseph was a civil engineering manager.

Margaret died in Blackburn in 1961. Joseph died in Chichester, Sussex in 1969.

 

Maria Dawson was the daughter of Thompson Dawson. Thompson was born 1831 in Guiseley. He married Elizabeth Pratt 1 August 1852 in Calverley. They had eight children.

Maria, a twin, was born 14 April 1868 in Calverley. She was baptised 28 August 1870 at St Wilfrid’s Calverley. In 1871 the family were living in Calverley with Thompson working as a weaver. In 1881 & 1891 they were at 5 George Street in Saltaire with Thompson working as a spinning overlooker. From before 1895 they had moved to 73 George Street.

Maria worked at Salt’s Mill for 55 years. She started work aged just 11 in 1879. Maria’s twin brother, Arthur, started work in the mill on the same day as she did.She was a burler before she retired in 1934. In November 1937 she was presented with a wristlet watch for her long service.

Maria, still at 73 George Street, died in 1962. She never married.

 

Geoffrey Dean was the son of Arthur Dean. Arthur was born 23 October 1885 in Baildon. Arthur served in WW1 with the Royal Army Medical Corps. He married Beatrice Ellis in 1916. They lived at 3 Stone Street, Baildon with Arthur working as cotton warp dresser then as a fish fryer.

Geoffrey was born 12 June 1926 in Baildon. He died in 1982.

Report from the Shipley Times 9 November 1955 as follows:

A 29-year old Baildon motor driver, employed by Salts (Saltaire) Ltd, was given a conditional discharge, on payment of costs, after pleading “Not Guilty” to driving without due care and attention in Victoria Road, Saltaire on 16 August.
He was Geoffrey Dean of Stone Street, Charlestown, Baildon, who was defended by Mr S Temple-Milnes.
Mr. W Wilson, prosecuting, said that Dean was reversing his car into the main entrance of Salts Mill in Victoria Road, about 9 a.m. on 16 August when he struck a woman walking in front of the entrance. It was the prosecution’s submission that Dean had been negligent in reversing and had failed to keep a proper lookout.
Mrs. Gladys Watmough. shopkeeper, of Coach Road, Baildon, said she had been walking along the pavement up Victoria Road, and was crossing the entrance of Salts Mill where the pavement was discontinued for a while, when she was struck by Dean’s vehicle, which was only going at a very slow speed. She was knocked down but unhurt. She did not see the car before she began to cross.
In evidence Dean said that there were several cars near the entrance at the time and these may have blocked Mrs. Watmough’s view of his car. He had sounded his horn as he began to reverse and the first, he saw of Mrs Watmough was when she appeared in his rear mirror. She was walking with her head down and he had no chance to avoid her. The car was “crawling” at the time.
Mr. Temple-Milnes suggested that Mrs. Watmough was crossing at a very busy entrance and she had failed to keep a proper look-out. Dean had done all that was required of him and he alleged that the negligence had been on the part of Mrs. Watmough and not on Dean. As stated, Dean was given conditional discharge on payment of costs.

Opening paragraphs from a report in the Shipley Times 30 March 1955 as follows:

Salts A.F.C. Public Meeting MEMBERS AGREE WITH OFFICIAL DECISION TO APPLY FOR YORKSHIRE LEAGUE STATUS
Who knows what possibilities are ahead of Salts? In ten years we may making application to join the Midland League later may become Bradford City and Bradford City may become Salts! said Mr. Geoffrey Dean playing member, when he supported players and officials' decision to make an application for Yorkshire League membership at a public meeting of Salts A.F.C. in the mill canteen last Tuesday night. There was an attendance of about 60.

Geoffrey played cricket for Baildon, regularly topping the batting averages. Opening paragraphs of a report from the Shipley Times 21 October 1959 as follows:

BRADFORD CRICKET LEAGUE CENSURE SALTAIRE AND BAILDON CLUBS
Geoff. Dean Not to Skipper Team for a Year
At a meeting of the Bradford Cricket League Committee last Friday a decision of a special inquiry to fine Saltaire £5 for a breach of the rules was overruled by the committee and instead Saltaire were censured. In connection with the same matter Baildon were censured and Geoffrey Dean, of Baildon, was refused permission to captain the Saltaire side for twelve months.

Report from the Shipley Times 11 November 1959 as follows:

GEOFF DEAN SIGNS FOR SALTS
Geoffrey Dean, whose name hit the cricketing headlines a month ago after the Bradford Cricket League refused him permission to captain Saltaire Cricket Club for a year, has signed as a professional for Salts, members of the Bradford League first division.
Geoff Dean has played for Baildon for almost 20 years, and he has gained a reputation throughout the league as a fine attacking batsman and first class close-in fielder.
The Bradford League refused him permission to play for Saltaire after an inquiry into an allegation that Dean had been approached to play for Saltaire before the allowed date. Saltaire and Baildon were both censured. A Salts official said yesterday (Tuesday) that they were very pleased to have got hold of Dean, he signed his forms on Monday.

 

Denison, Eva Mary (nee Lavelle)
28 October 1901 – 2004

Eva Mary Lavelle was born, 28 October 1901, in Shipley to William Lavelle and Annie Ibbitson.

In 1911 Eva was living with her parents and siblings at 6 Hargreaves Square, Shipley. Her parents worked as woolcombers. From before 1918 they lived at 14 Caroline Street, Saltaire. In the 1921 Census, Eva was a worsted warper working in Saltaire Miils. Her father was a woolcomber for Francis Willey in Shipley.

Eva married John Redvers Denison in 1929. John was born, 12 March 1900, in Saltaire. In the 1939 Register they were living in Mossley, near Oldham. John was an expeditor & production assistant manager at a wool combing & worsted spinning company. He also served as a special constable in the Lancashire Police Force.

John died in Bradford in 1983. Eva died in 2004 in Bradford.

 

Gordon Harold Davison was the son of John Preston Denison. John was born 23 May 1850 in Guiseley. He married Emma Elizabeth Pickard 27 October 1872 at Bradford Cathedral.

Gordon, the second youngest of five children, was born 25 September 1880 in Esholt. He was baptised 14 November 1880 at St Paul’s Esholt. In 1881 & 1891 the family were living at 34 Princess Street. John who was a spinning overlooker at Saltaire Mills died in 1885. In 1901 Gordon was an overlooker living with his widowed mother at 34 Beatrice Street in Shipley.

Gordon married Jeannie Wilkinson in 1904. They had a son, Charles Frederick, born in 1907. In 1911 they were living with Gordon’s mother at 19 Elliot Street in Shipley. She died 4 September 1913

Report from the Shipley Times 7 June 1918: -

MILL TO FARM

At the West Riding Appeals Tribunal at Leeds, one of the appellants was Gordon Harold Denison, a farmer, Crook Farm, Baildon, who had been granted exemption till June 1st., with further right of appeal. Against this he appealed.

The local tribunal pointed out that the man had been a drawing overlooker in the Saltaire Mills, and he had recently commenced farming. He was now in partnership with another man, and it was thought that the latter could manage the farm.

Appellant admitted that he only left the Saltaire Mills six weeks ago but held that he had had a farm since November last. He had always known about farming. He had given £1,200 for the farm. The reason he did not go back to the mills was because he had happened an accident.

Adjourned for fourteen days for re-grading.

Report from the Shipley Times 21 June 1918: -

At the West Riding Appeals Tribunal Leeds, June 13th, the case of Gordon Harold Denison, Crook Farm. Baildon. 37, married. and Grade 2, was gone into.

Mr. Arthur Willey, solicitor, Leeds, his advocate. said the case had been adjourned order that the man should be regraded, he had been Grade 1, and was now Grade 2.

Originally, he worked at a mill under a protection card, but met with a serious accident, which affected his back, and took a farm acres, including 51 acres arable, at Baildon. He was now entirely engaged in farm work.

The case was referred to the War Agricultural Executive.

Major Dent remarked that only Grade 1 men were being taken from the farms.

(There is no record of Gordon serving in the war)

Gordon and family resided at Crook farm until 1926. From 1927 they lived at 24 Victoria Road in Saltaire, where Gordon remained until his death 15 September 1954. In the 1939 register he was working as a jobbing gardener. His wife Jeannie died in 1950.

Their son, Charles, died 1 September 1947 in Baildon.

In his will Gordon left £747 5s 3d (worth c£21,000 in 2020) to his niece Doris Evelyn Webster. She was the daughter of Gordon’s eldest brother, Robert William Orlando Denison. Both Doris & Robert worked in the mill.

 

 

John Preston Denison was the son of Robert Denison. Robert was born c1817 in Yeadon. He married Nanny Preston 3 February 1840 at St Oswald’s Guiseley. They had at least five children

John, their second child, was born 23 May 1850 in Guiseley. The family lived in Yeadon were both Robert and John were weavers. John married Emma Elizabeth Pickard 27 October 1872 at Bradford Cathedral. They had five children.

In 1881 the family were living at 34 Princess Street in Shipley.

John who was a spinning overlooker at Saltaire Mills died in 1885. Two of his sons, Robert William Orlando & Gordon Harold, also worked in Saltaire Mills.

John’s widow, Emma, died 4 September 1913, at 19 Elliott Street in Shipley. In her will she left £113 6s 2d (worth c£13,500 in 2020).

 

 

John Redvers Denison was the son of Robert William Orlando Denison.

Robert was born, 22 May 1873, in Esholt. He married Harriet Naylor 28 November 1896 at the Wesleyan Chapel in Charlestown, Baildon.

John, the middle child and their only son, was born, 12 March 1900, in Saltaire. In 1901 & 1911 the family were living at 36 Caroline Street in Saltaire. From 1914 to 1919 they were at 3 Harold Place, then from 1921 to 1926 at 3 Albert Road (renumbered 5).

In December 1922 John attended the annual ball of Saltaire Mill’s Spinning Department in Victoria Hall. The evening was presided over by his father.

John married Eva Lavelle in 1929. Eva was born, 28 October 1901.

Report from the Shipley Times, 16 October 1937: -

The record attendance at the annual dinner the Salts (Saltaire) Amateur Bowling Club, held at the Royal Cafe, Saltaire. last Friday evening was a compliment to the energetic and courteous secretary (Mr. J. R. Denison) who after seven years’ splendid service in that capacity, has resigned his position, consequent upon having received an appointment at Manchester.

Mr. Denison has been in the employ of Salts (Saltaire). Ltd., at Saltaire Mills for twenty-five years. He commenced work at the mill as a boy and during the last few years has been connected with the spinning and forwarding departments.

In the 1939 Register John was living with wife in Mossley, near Oldham. John was an expeditor & production assistant manager at a wool combing & worsted spinning company. He also served as a special constable in the Lancashire Police Force.

John died in Bradford in 1983.

 

Denison, Robert William Orlando
22 May 1873 – 09 May 1949

Robert William Orlando Davison was the son of John Preston Denison.

John was born 23 May 1850 in Guiseley. He married Emma Elizabeth Pickard 27 October 1872 at Bradford Cathedral.

Robert, the oldest of five children, was born 22 May 1873 in Esholt. He was baptised 29 June 1873 at St Paul’s Esholt. In 1881 & 1891 the family were living at 34 Princess Street. John who was a spinning overlooker at Saltaire Mills died in 1885.

In 1891 Robert was an apprentice spinning overlooker. He married Harriet Naylor 28 November 1896 at the Wesleyan Chapel in Charlestown, Baildon. They had three children: - Doris Evelyn born 27 July 1898, John Redvers born, 12 March 1900 and Mary Winifred born 1 September 1906.

In 1901 & 1911 the family were living at 36 Caroline Street in Saltaire. From 1914 to 1919 they were at 3 Harold Place, then from 1921 to 1926 at 3 Albert Road (renumbered 5). By 1928 the were living at 7 Ivy Grove in Shipley, where Robert spent the rest of his life.

Report from the Shipley Times 16 December 1921: -

SILVER WEDDING CELEBRATION.

A very pleasant function took place at the Cafe Royal, Saltaire. on Saturday evening, December 3, when Mr. and Mrs. Denison celebrated their silver wedding, There were about 80 guests present, Mr. and Mrs. Denison being the recipients of a large and varied number of gifts, along with many letters of congratulation and good wishes.

Mr. Denison has a life-long connection with firm of Sir Titus Salt, his father being overlooker at the same place.

By 1922 Orlando (the name he was known by) was a spinning manager at Saltaire Mills.

Excerpt from a report in the Shipley Times 22 December 1922: -

INTERESTING SOCIAL GATHERING

Ostensibly arranged for the purpose of presenting a cheque for £27 10s. to Mrs. F. Feamley Rhodes, on behalf of the Salt Hospital, the result of the recent dance promoted by the spinning department of Saltaire Mills, a social gathering, presided over by Mr. Orlando Denison (manager of. the spinning department), was held at the Royal Cafe, Saltaire, Wednesday evening.

In October 1934 Orlando was reported as being the manager of both the spinning and twisting departments.

Report from the Shipley Times 13 October 1934: -

It is quite evident that the directors take a keen interest in the welfare of the playing fields provided by the firm of Salts (Saltaire) Ltd. regarding the finances of the various sports sections. Mr. Orlando Denison said it was the firm’s wish that they should combine, and the firm paid the rates and the wages bill which amounted to about £300 per year, he thought their suggestion was justified. The firm, he said, had no desire to destroy the present arrangements, but considered that their proposal would be beneficial, especially to those sections who found it difficult to make ends meet. The matter was left for the careful consideration of the various sections, and I have doubt they will fall in with the directors’ wishes.

Harriet, Orlando’s wife died 12 March 1949; Orlando les than two months later, 9 May 1949.

Report from the Shipley Times 06 July 1949: -

FORMER MILL DOFFERLEAVES £5,523

Mr Robert William Orlando Denison, 7 Ivy Grove, Shipley, spinning manager, for 68 years an employee at Salts Mill, left £5,523 (net £5,484) it is revealed in his will, published yesterday.

Mr Denison, who started work at the mill at the age of ten as a doffer, worked two weeks without receiving pay before earning 1s 6d per week.

(£5,523 is worth c£200,000 in2020)

Gordon Harold Denison, a younger brother of Orlando, also worked in the mill.

 

 

Dewhirst, Elsie May (nee Bullock)
24 January 1906 –????

Elsie May Bullock was born, 24 January 1906, in Shipley to Herbert Bullock & Annie Elizabeth Watson. In 1901 they were living at 28 Dale Street in Shipley with Herbert working as a bricklayer. By 1911 they were living at 38 Ashley Road in Shipley with Herbert working as a bricklayer. By 1915 they had moved to 3 Caroline Street in Saltaire. Herbert served in WW1 and was killed in action 1 July 1916.

In 1921 Elsie was living with her mother and siblings at 3 Caroline Street. She was working as a doffer in the spinning department at Saltaire Mills.

Living at 35 Caroline Street, Elsie married Willie Dewhirst, 26 December 1932, at St. Peter’s, Shipley. Willie was born, 14 March 1908, and was a stamper living at 22 Ada Street, Saltaire.

In the 1939 Register, Elsie was a spinner living with her incapacitated father-in-law, Willie Dewhirst snr, at 47 Woodcot Avenue, Baildon. It is unclear what happened to Elsie after this.

 

James  was born c1811 in Hebdon Bridge. He married Rhoda Rushworth 2 August 1832 in Halifax. They had 6 children (including Leonard Dewhirst, below). In 1851 they were living in Hebden Bridge with James working as a constable and a clogger.

In November James' father died as a result of an accident at Saltaire Mills. Report from Bradford Observer 6 December 1860 as follows: -

On Saturday, an inquest was held by Mr. G. Dyson, coroner, at the Ring of Bells, Shipley, on the body of James Dewhirst, aged 50, who met his death at the new dyehouse, at Saltaire.

It appeared by the evidence that the deceased was assisting to fit up the gas pipes, and had lost his hammer in the forenoon. Shortly before two he ascended a ladder that was placed against a shaft, near to the bevil wheels. His clothes were caught in the cogs of the wheels and he was drawn into their iron grasp. It is needless to say that death was instantaneous. No blame attached to any group, but the unfortunate deceased. The jury returned a verdict of  “accidental death.''

Mr. Salt, with his usual liberality, is allowing the widow of the deceased 10s. per week, until the youngest child (now eight) is thirteen years of »ge, and, after that time, she is to be allowed 6s, so long, as she resides at Saltaire.

James was buried 2 December 1860 at Hirst Wood Cemetery, Shipley. His widow, Rhoda, died in 1879.

 

James Dewhirst was the son of Leonard Dewhirst. Leonard was born c1852 in Copley, Halifax. He married Sarah Jane Brown 17 January 1874 at Bradford Cathedral.

James, the youngest of three children, (including Rhoda and Sarah Harriet) was born 18 February 1880 in Saltaire. In 1881 the family were living at 18 Dove Street with Leonard employed as a tin plate worker at Salts Mill.
Sarah Jane died in 1883. Widowed Leonard married Louisa Lambert 29 March 1884 at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 4 Dove Street.

James, a mechanic of 8 (renumbered 15) Albert Rd, married Edith Rose Goldsbrough 25 September 1905 at St Paul’s Shipley. In 1911 they were living with Edith’s parents at 39 Rhodes Street in Shipley. They had a son, Arthur, born 29 March 1908 and a daughter, Grace Alice, born in 1911. They had another son and daughter. By 1918 they were living at 33 Dover Street in Shipley, moving to 21 Lynton Drive around 1937.

Report from Shipley Times 28 September 1955 as follows:

Mr. and Mrs. J Dewhirst, of 21 Linton Drive, Shipley, celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last Sunday. Married at Shipley Parish Church on September 25, 1905,  both can claim a lifelong association with the town. Prior to his retirement some seven years ago. Mr. Dewhirst was an employee of Salts (Saltaire) Ltd., where he received a long service award. Thev have two sons, two daughters and five grandchildren.

To celebrate the event, a family party was held at Hoyle Court, where some 30 guests were entertained. Among many beautiful flowers received was bouquet of cream roses from their grandchildren. Mr. and Mrs. Dewhifst are both active and in good health.

James died 22 February 1959 and was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery, Shipley. Edith died 12 January 1972.

 

Leonard Dewhirst was the son of James Dewhirst. James was born c1811 in Hebdon Bridge. He married Rhoda Rushworth 2 August 1832 in Halifax. In 1851 they were living in Hebden Bridge with James working as a constable and a clogger.

Leonard, the youngest of 6 children, was born in 1852 in Copley, Halifax. In November 1860 his father died as a result of an accident at Saltaire Mills. In 1861 widowed Rhoda lived with her children at 19 Titus Street in Saltaire. By 1871 they had moved to 40 Titus Street. Rhoda died in 1879.

Leonard married Sarah Jane Brown, 17 January 1874 at Bradford Cathedral. In 1881 the family were living at 18 Dove Street with Leonard employed as a tin plate worker at Salts Mill.They had three children (including Rhoda born 1874, and Sarah Harriet born 1875 and James Dewhirst, born 1880). Sarah Jane died in 1883.

Widowed Leonard married Louisa Lambert 29 March 1884 at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children (including Arthur Dewhirst, born 1894 ). In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 4 Dove Street. In 1905 they were living at 8 (renumbered 15) Albert Rd. By 1908 they were living at 3 George Street.

Report from Shipley Times 5 March 1920 as follows:

Mr. Leonard Dewhirst, of 3 George Street, Saltaire, has a  fine record of service with the Saltaire firm, with whom he has been employed for 60 years. Born at Copley, near Halifax, in 1852, Mr. Dewhirst came to Saltaire when only 18 months old, and when the village of Saltaire was being built. When he was 8 years age, his father, Mr. James Dewhirst. who was a pipe fitter at Saltaire Mill, was killed while repairing a wheel, and Mr. Leonard Dewhirst then started work in the mill learning spinning. When he was 11. he left the spinning and entered the tinner's ehop, learnt tinning, and been employed in the tinners’ shop ever since. Mr. Dewhirst was the constructor of the first iron pleasure boat which was launched the river at Saltaire. This boat, built about 40 years ago, had a seating capacity for 16 persons, and six of these boats, which have now been replaced by others, were built.

Leonard died in 1923, Louisa in 1927.

 

Rhoda Dewhirst was the daughter of Leonard Dewhirst. Leonard was born c1852 in Copley, Halifax. He married Sarah Jane Brown, 17 January 1874 at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children (James Dewhirst, born 1880, Rhoda born 15 March 1874, and Sarah Harriet born 1875).

Rhoda was baptised 3 May 1874 at Saltaire Wesleyan Methodist Church. In 1881 the family were living at 18 Dove Street with Leonard employed as a tin plate worker at Salts Mill.

Rhoda's mother, Sarah Jane, died in 1883. Widowed Leonard married Louisa Lambert, 29 March 1884, at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 4 Dove Street.

By 1911 Rhoda, and her sister Sarah, were living at 1 Edward Street (re-numbered 6) in Saltaire. She would remain here the rest of her life.

Above: Left to right - Sally b 1876. Rhoda b 1874.

Above: Rhoda is driving and sitting in the sidecar is Sally.

Rhoda worked at Salt’s Mill for over 54 years. In October 1937, working in the Spinning Dept, Rhoda, was one of 24 employees who were given long service awards by the Managing Director, Mr R W Guild, at a function in the Royal Café. Rhoda was presented with a wristlet watch.

Rhoda, who never married, died in 1959.

For more information on the Dewhirst family, follow this link>

 

Sarah Harriet Dewhirst was the daughter of Leonard Dewhirst. Leonard was born c1852 in Copley, Halifax. He married Sarah Jane Brown 17 January 1874 at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children (James Dewhirst, born 1880, Rhoda born 15 March 1874, and Sarah Harriet born 4 November 1875 in Saltaire).

Sarah Harriet was baptised 2 January 1876 at Saltaire Wesleyan Methodist Church. In 1881 the family were living at 18 Dove Street with Leonard employed as a tin plate worker at Salts Mill.

Sarah Harriet's mother, Sarah Jane, died in 1883. Widowed Leonard married Louisa Lambert 29 March 1884 at Bradford Cathedral. They had three children. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 4 Dove Street.

By 1911 Sarah, and her sister Rhoda, were living at 1 Edward Street (re-numbered 6) in Saltaire. She would remain here the rest of her life.

Above: Left to right - Sally b 1876. Rhoda b 1874.

Above: Rhoda is driving and sitting in the sidecar is Sally.

Sarah worked at Salt’s Mill for over 51 years. In October 1937, working in the Reeling Dept, Sarah was one of 24 employees who were given long service awards by the Managing Director, Mr R W Guild, at a function in the Royal Café. Sarah was presented with a walnut clock with Westminster chimes.

Sarah died, a spinster, 10 March 1963 aged 88 at Calverley Hospital, Thornbury, in Bradford.

For more information on the Dewhirst family, follow this link>

Elizabeth Dibb was the daughter of James Dibb. James was born c1845 in Idle. He was working as a wool sorter when he married Sarah Wood 14 April 1868 in Keighley.

Elizabeth, the sixth of eleven children, was born 22 March 1877 in Keighley. She was baptised 29 July 1877 at St Andrew’s in Keighley. In 1881 the family were living at 23 Moorhead Lane in Shipley. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 12 Gordon Terrace in Saltaire (re-numbered 73 Bingley Road). In 1911 they were at 9 Moorhead Lane.

James died in 1917 and was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery in Shipley. From before 1921 widowed Sarah and her children lived at 209 Bingley Road in Shipley. The family, including spinster Elizabeth, would remain there until 1958. Sarah died in 1930 and was buried alongside her husband in Hirst Wood.

Elizabeth worked in Salt’s Mill for over 50 years. She started in 1887 when she was aged just 10. In October 1937, working in the Weaving Dept, Elizabeth and her sister, Susannah, and her brother Harry, were amongst 24 employees who were given long service awards by the Managing Director, Mr R W Guild, at a function in the Royal Café. Elizabeth was presented with a wristlet watch. In the 1939 register Elizabeth is shown as being disabled.

Elizabeth, who never married, died in 1962 when she was living at Nelson in Lancashire. She was buried with her parents at Hirst Wood.

 

Harry Dibb was the son of James Dibb. James was born c1845 in Idle. He was working as a wool sorter when he married Sarah Wood 14 April 1868 in Keighley.

Harry, the fourth of eleven children, was born 1 March 1874 in Keighley. He was baptised 29 July 1877 at St Andrew’s in Keighley. In 1881 the family were living at 23 Moorhead Lane in Shipley. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 12 Gordon Terrace in Saltaire (re-numbered 73 Bingley Road).

Harry married Emily Shepherd 27 November 1902 at St Paul’s in Shipley. In 1911 they were living at 106 Bradford Road in Shipley. They had a son, Frank William born 4 March 1914. They moved to 12 Grange Avenue in Shipley around 1924. His wife, Emily died September 1931, aged 54. She was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery, Shipley. . Harry worked in Salt’s Mill for over 55 years. He started in March 1884 when he was aged just 10. He worked in the spinning dept for about eight years. He then moved to the manufacturing side and he worked in the costing dept for over 35 years.

Extract from a report in the Yorkshire Factory Times 3 July 1924: -

To mark his retirement after thirty years' service at the Saltaire Mills, Mr. Arthur Whitham, the weaving manager, has been presented with a Jacobean oak clock with chimes, subscribed for by the employees in the coatings department, the departmental managers, and friends.

Presenting the gift, Miss Emily Laycock, one of the weavers with the longest service, said she had known Mr. Whitham throughout the period of her service at the mills, and he had at all times been a fair-dealing gentleman.

Mr. H. Dibb spoke as to the sterling worth of Mr. Whitham.

Mr. Whitham suitably responded and asked the employees to give the same help and sympathy to the management as they had given to him.

In July 1935 Harry was one of four men who attended a presentation in the board room at the Mill for long service. He was presented with a watch. In October 1937, Harry and his sisters, Elizabeth and Susannah were amongst 24 employees who were given long service awards by the Managing Director, Mr R W Guild, at a function in the Royal Café. Harry was presented with a certificate. In the 1939 register Harry was still working and living with his sisters and son at 209 Bingley Road in Shipley.

Harry died 12 January 1948 and he was buried with his wife in Hirst Wood Cemetery. In his will he left £3817 (worth £140k in 2019) to his son.

Extract from a report in the Shipley Times 21 January 1948: -

The death has occurred of Mr. Harry Dibb, of 209 Bingley Road, Shipley, at the age of 74. He was the second son of Mr. & Mrs. James Dibb.

Mr. Dibb was well known to North of England naturalists and in North country climbing circles.

For over 50 years he was employed in the offices of Salts (Saltaire) Ltd., retiring about 12 months ago

The funeral took place at St. Peters, Shipley on Thursday afternoon (15 January). The Rev. T. B. Cornish (vicar) officiating.

Extract from a report in the Shipley Times 16 November 1955: -

CARTWRIGHT HALL GIFTS

For over 30 years the late Mr. Harry Dibb. of Shipley, spent his annual holiday mountaineering in North Wales, the Lake. District and Scotland, and from the photographs he took on those expeditions he made lantern slides.

His sisters, Misses Elizabeth and Susan Ann Dibb, of 209 Bingley Road, Shipley, have now given his collection slides, over 1,400 number, to the Cartwright Memorial Hall. Bradford.

 

Susannah Dibb was the daughter of James Dibb. James was born c1845 in Idle. He was working as a wool sorter when he married Sarah Wood 14 April 1868 in Keighley.

Susannah, the eldest of eleven children, was born 28 January 1869 in Keighley. She was baptised 29 July 1877 at St Andrew’s in Keighley. In 1881 the family were living at 23 Moorhead Lane in Shipley. In 1891 & 1901 they were living at 12 Gordon Terrace in Saltaire (re-numbered 73 Bingley Road). In 1911 they were at 9 Moorhead Lane.

James died in 1917 and was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery in Shipley. From before 1921 widowed Sarah and her children lived at 209 Bingley Road in Shipley. The family, including spinster Susannah, would remain there until 1958.
Sarah died in 1930 and was buried alongside her husband in Hirst Wood.

Susannah worked in Salt’s Mill for over 57 years. She started in 1880 when she was aged just 11. In October 1937, Susannah, and her sister, Elizabeth, and her brother Harry, were amongst 24 employees who were given long service awards by the Managing Director, Mr R W Guild, at a function in the Royal Café. Susannah was presented with a certificate. In the 1939 register Susannah is shown as being retired.

Susannah, who never married, died in 1954 and was buried with her parents at Hirst Wood.

 

Amy Llewellyn was the daughter of James Llewellyn. James was born 26 March 1880 in Millom, Cumberland. He married Esther Steele, 13 October 1901, at Holy Trinity church in Millom. James & Esther had seven children all born in Millom, who would all eventually work in Saltaire Mill.

John Charles (1902-1957) 3 Lapstone Road
Olive (1903-1970) 3 Lapstone Road
Frank (1905-1963) 20 Devonshire Road
James (1906-1984) 17 Lapstone Road
Amy (1907-1985) 17 Lapstone Road
Esther (1915-2001) 17 Lapstone Road
Dorothy (1917-1991) 17 Lapstone Road

Amy, their fifth child, was born 12 December 1907 at 17 Lapstone Road in Millom.

Click to magnify

Image: The Llewellyn children

In 1911 the family were living at 17 Lapstone Road, here James was an iron ore miner. Amy attended Lapstone Road School; she also attended the Wesleyan Sunday School. In August 1916, Amy won the 100 yds flat race at a sports day organised by the Loyal Duddon Lodge of Oddfellows at St George’s Vicarage Field in Millom. The following year she won the 75 yards race at the same venue.

In 1919 Amy moved with her family to Saltaire where she worked in Saltaire Mill. In 1919 she lived with her parents at 2 Edward Street (originally 7 Bath Buildings). From 1920 they were at 26 George Street. Amy along with her siblings, was a member of Saltaire Mills Gymnastic Club. In 1927 Amy was a student at Shipley Technical & School of Art Evening Institute. In September she passed an exam in cookery.

Amy married Ronald Dickinson in 1938 at Saltaire Wesleyan Methodist Church. Ronald was born 30 January 1913 in Bradford. His mother died in 1935, after which he lived with a relative of his grandmother.

Click to magnify

Image: Ronald Dickinson (left, who married Amy Llewellyn) with his brother-in-law, Ellis King (who married Esther Llewellyn).

Ronald served in WW2 in the Royal Navy, initially on the transatlantic convoy protection as a sick berth attendant. He served on the RMS Aurania, a commandeered Cunard Liner. He had a couple of near misses: The ship ran into an iceberg in the same area where the Titanic was sunk. They limped into Halifax, Nova Scotia and then onto Newport News, Virginia for repair. On the voyage back they were torpedoed twice, but they managed to undertake some repairs and limped into the Clyde. The Germans announced over the radio that the ship had been sunk, which the family heard about, but they did not tell Amy until it was confirmed. So everybody was very surprised as he walked back into Saltaire. The ship then went in for a refit and Ronald was transferred to HMS Ganges in Suffolk, a large land based hospital.

Amy & Ronald had two children: Dinah born in 1942 and John in 1947. They initially lived in Wilmer Road, Shipley. When Amy’s mother, Esther, died in 1947 Amy inherited her house at 15 Titus Street, Saltaire. Amy & Ronald lived here the rest of their lives. Amy had met Ronald at the St John Ambulance Division Shipley. Later Ronald we be the Superintendent of the Saltaire Division. After the war Ronald briefly worked as a male nurse at St Luke’s Hospital in Bradford, he was a volunteer fireman at Shipley and a special constable. Later he worked at Keighley Lifts, where he was a first aider, a role he continued until his death.

Both Ronald and Amy died at St Luke’s Hospital in Bradford, Ronald in 1971, Amy in 1985.

(Compiled with the help of John Rolfe-Dickinson, son of Amy & Ronald.)

Frank Dickinson was the son of George Dickinson. George was born c1843 in Follifoot, near Harrogate. He married Jane (marriage date and maiden name unknown). In 1871 they were living at 41 Helen Street in Saltaire with George working as a labourer. By 1881 they had moved to 3 Whitlam Street.

Frank, the youngest of seven children, was born 16 December 1879 in Saltaire. In 1891 he was a bottom pegger; in 1901 he was an overlooker. Frank married Ann Moss in 1903. They had a son, Allan born 19 Oct 1908. In 1911 they were living at 58 Marlborough Road in Shipley, where Frank would remain the rest of his life.

Report from the Shipley Times 3 June 1953 as follows:

The award of the 0.B.E. to Mr Dickinson, of 58 Marlborough Road, Shipley in the birthday honours announced on Monday will be welcome news to many of Mr. Dickinson’s friends and business associates.
He became the first full-time secretary of the Bradford and District Power-Loom Overlookers' Society in 1915. and in 1949 he was appointed a director of U.K. Wool Disposals. Ltd. Mr. Dickinson has been secretary of the Yorkshire Association of Power-Loom Overlookers ever since its inception in 1921. He was one of the founder members of the National Association of Unions in the Textile Trade 1916,  was its chairman from 1943-46 and is still in Executive member Mr. Dickinson served the Wool Control Board in both world wars; He was connected with the formation of the Wool Textile Industrial Council and has been a member of the management committee of the General Federation of Trade Unions since 1936. He has been a member of Bradford Employment Committee since 1920 and a member the Appellant Tribunal, for conscientious objectors' appeals since 1940.
In Shipley Mr. Dickinson is a vice - president of Northcliffe Amateur Bowling Association and a member of Shipley Musical Union. He was born in Saltaire and commenced work at Saltaire Mills when he was 10 years of age.

Frank died in 1962.

 

George Daniel Dickinson was the son of George Dickinson. George was born 10 August 1862 in the USA. He married Frances Kerwin 27 November 1889 in Bradford Cathedral. In 1891 & 1901 they lived in Bowling with George working as a printer compositor.

George Daniel, the youngest of three children, was born 23 August 1904 in Bradford. In 1911 they were living at 12 Hastings Avenue in Bradford. In 1939 George Daniel was a dyer living with his widowed father at 67 Reginald Street in Bradford.

George Daniel married Thelma Sutcliffe in 1940. By 1949 they were living at 14 Staybrite Avenue in Cottingley.

Extract from a report in the Shipley Times 10 February 1954 as follows:

TELEVISION DAY AT SALTAIRE MILLS
For 40 minutes on Monday evening a skeleton staff took over the mill and answered the questions of BBC commentators Jean Metcalfe and Brian Johnston.
The programme took viewers through every department in the mill, and they heard local people explaining their own particular line.
Other employees who were interviewed were Mr. Jack Goodall of 25 Fernbank Drive, Baildon, the dyeing and finishing manager, and Mr. G D. Dickinson, of 14 Staybright Avenue, Cottingley, the head dyer.

George Daniel died in 1983.

 

Dickinson, Ronald - Mill Worker / WW2 Roll of Honour

Mary Alice Dixon was born, 24 January 1901, in Laisterdyke, Bradford to Lily Tetley and Albert Dixon. Mary Alice was baptised. 24 February 1901, at St. Marys, Laisterdyke.

In 1901 they were living in Laisterdyke with Albert working in a woollen mill. He died in 1903. Mary’s widowed mother married widower Arthur Gresswell in 1907. They lived at 43 Mary Street until after 1915. From before 1918 they lived at 6 George Street, Saltaire.

In the 1921 Census, Mary was a spinner working at Saltaire Mills, In the 1939 Register she was an inmate at the West Riding Mental Hospital in Menston.

From before 1945 to 1948 Mary was back living at 6 George Street. Having never married, Mary died in 1986.

 

Florence Matilda Jowett was born, 21 June 1888, in Saltaire. She was one of ten children born to Francis William Jowett & Emily Ann Stead.

In 1891 they were living at 10 Dove Street in Saltaire; in 1901 at 32 Dove Street, and by 1911 they were at 4 Fern Place.

Florence married Allan Walsh, 8 May 1915 in Saltaire. They had a daughter, Elsie May, born, 11 March 1916. They lived with Florence’s parents at 4 Fern Place in Saltaire. Allan served in WW1.

In the 1921 Census they were living with Florence’s parents at 4 Fern Place. Allan was a window cleaner working for himself, Florence was a burler & mender at Saltaire Mills. From 1924 they lived at 6 Titus Street in Saltaire. In the 1939 Register Florence was a burler & mender, Allan was working as an engineer’s driller.

Allan died 3 rd Qtr. 1940. Widow Florence married Harry Dobson in 1946.Florence died 14 January 1955 at 6 Titus Street.

 

Donnett, Richard
1 July 1885 – 27 September 1950

Richard Donnett was born 1 July 1885 to George Donnett & Ann Hellewell. He was baptised 2 September 1885 at St. Michael & All Angels, Bradford.

In 1891 the family was living at 127 George Street, Shipley, with George working as cabinet maker. By 1901 they had moved to 3 Amelia Street, Saltaire. Richard would spend the rest of his life here.

In the 1911 Richard was a wool sorter and his father a joiner in a mill. Richard married Mary Hannah Padgett 10 May 1913.

Marriage Notice in the Shipley Times: -

DONNETT – PADGETT

At Bethel Baptist Church, on 10 May, by the Rev. E. Hardin, Richard Donnett, of Saltaire, to Mary Hannah, eldest of William Padgett, of Windhill.

Excerpt from a report in the Shipley Times 20 July 1917, referring to a meeting of the Shipley Military Tribunal: -

R. Donnett, woolsorter, employed by Sir. T. Salt, Bart., Sons and Co., 32 years of age, said his father lived with him. The father had no income. He had broken his arm 23 years of age, and it had not been of much use since. He had not received a single penny compensation, but received the old-age pension last year.

Exemption was granted to 31 October.

There is no record of Richard serving in the war.

In July 1947 at a ceremony in the Board Room of Messrs. Salts (Saltaire) Ltd., Richard was presented with a long service certificate and an inscribed gold watch, for having servedthe company as a wool sorter for 50 years.

Richard died 27 September 1950. In his will he left £243 14s 3d. His widow, Mary, died 11 July 1959, at 3 Amelia Street. In her will she left £798 15s.

 

Doyle, Arthur - Mill Worker / WW1 Roll of Honour

Thomas Francis Doyle was born c1855 in Bradford the eldest child of James (born c1831 in Ireland) and Bridget Doyle. In 1871 the family were living in Wyke with James working as a labourer and Thomas as a millhand. By 1881 they were living in Horton with Thomas employed as an overlooker.

Thomas married Ada Robinson in 1882. They had at least eight children. Four of their sons: Albert Richard, Arthur, Harold Robinson & Thomas Henry served in WW1. (Harold Robinson also served in WW2.) In 1881 they were living in Bowling and in 1901 they were at Horton. Ada died in 1903.

Widowed Thomas married Ellen Priest 22 December 1904 at St Mary’s Gomersal. Ellen was 17 years younger than Thomas. From before 1911 to 1929 they lived at 30 George Street in Saltaire. Around 1930 they moved to 13 Albert Road.

Thomas died 6 March 1933.

Report from the Shipley Times 11 March 1933 as follows: -

The Saltaire district lost one of its best-known residents Monday, when the death look place of Mr. Thomas F. Doyle, of 13 Albert Road.

Mr. Doyle was man of many interests and was a prominent figure in the political and social life of Shipley, while in his youth he had gained moderate fame in sporting circles. Although a native of Bradford, Mr. Doyle had resided at Shipley for well over thirty years and was a departmental manager at the firm of Messrs. Salt’s (Saltaire) Ltd.

He was perhaps best known for his political activities. In 1913 he contested the West Ward as a Labour candidate and was elected a member of the Shipley Urban Council, but om four subsequent occasions he was returned unopposed as an Independent candidate for the same ward.

In all he served on the Council for 14 years, and rendered valuable service as chairman of the Baths, Public Health, and Promenade Concert Committees, and vice-chairman of the Education Committee. During the war he was a member of the Military Service Tribunal.

A very keen musician. Mr. Doyle was a past president of the Shipley Musical Festival, with which he was associated for many years. He was also a member of the committee of the old Saltaire Institute Society, and a past president of the Mills Male Voice Choir.

Mr. Doyle was also a former chairman the Shipley 1.L.P, a past president of the Saltaire Mills Bowling Club: member of Laycock’s Debating Society, Bradford: a speaker on political economy; a member of the Astronomical Society; and a member of the old Shipley Operatic Society.

As a young man he was an enthusiastic Rugby Union player and played wing three-quarter for the Buttershaw Club. His brother, Eddie Doyle, was the famous Bradford and Yorkshire full back.

 

Dracup, Frank   
26 October 1875 – 2 August 1959

Frank Dracup was the son of William Dracup. William was born c1832 in Horton. He married Martha Waddington 9 April 1855 at St Paul’s Shipley. In 1861 they were living at 34 Whitlam Street in Saltaire with William employed as a mechanic. By 1871 they were living at 35 Victoria Road (re-numbered twice, firstly to 52 then to 78).

Frank, the second youngest of nine children, was born 26 October 1875 in Saltaire. He was baptised 21 May 176 at St John’s Great Horton.

Frank married Mary Elizabeth Raistrick, of 20 George Street, 11 May 1898 at St Paul’s Shipley. In 1901 they were living at 26 Fanny Street in Saltaire. They had one daughter, Nellie, born 7 June 1904 (Nellie died 5 April 1950). In 1911 they lived at 17 Maddocks Street in Shipley. In 1939 they were living at 5 West End Terrace in Shipley, where they would remain the rest of their lives. Frank worked as a centre lathe turner.

The Shipley Times (12 March 1941) reported that Frank had completed 50 years’ service at Saltaire Mill and he had been presented with gifts and a framed certificate.

Report from the Shipley Times 12 May 1948 as follows:

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Dracup, of 5 West End Terrace, Shipley, celebrated their golden wedding yesterday. Mr. Dracup is 72 years of age and Mrs. Dracup 71. They have one daughter and one granddaughter.
For over fifty years Mr Dracup was employed in the maintenance department of Salts (Saltaire) Ltd, and he was the recipient of a gold watch and an illuminated address on the completion of his fifty years’ service. He retired in 1946. Both Mr. and Mrs. Dracup are keen co-operators and have been members of the Windhill Co-operative Society Ltd. for fifty years, and to Mrs. Dracup belongs the honour of being the first woman director of the society. She is also a life member of the Windhill Co-operative Society's Women’s Guild.
In local musical circles Mr. Dracup is exceedingly well known. He is a life member of the Windhill Musical Union, and at one period was the deputy-conductor.
The celebrations in connection with the golden wedding were held 77 Kirkgate, Shipley, the residence of their daughter (Mrs. West), when several relatives were entertained to tea. The guests included Mr. and Mrs. Harry Normington, of Merton Street, Shipley, who were the best man and bridesmaid respectively at the wedding of Mr and Mrs. Dracup fifty years ago. The maiden name of Mrs. Normington was Miss Mary Jane Benson.

Mary died 18 May 1953 and was buried at Nab Wood Cemetery Shipley. Frank joined her when he died 2 August 1959.

 

Edgar Drake was born 1867 in Bradford, his father was James Drake, mother unknown. In 1871 they were living in Clayton with James working as a stone merchant. In 1881 & 1891 they lived in Bradford where Edgar was an office errand boy then a spinning overlooker.

Living in Manningham, Edgar married Mary Gawthorp, 29 October 1892, in Bradford Cathedral. They had three children: Nellie born 1895, James 1898 & Herbert 1900.

In 1901 they were living at 27 Jane St in Saltaire where Edgar was an overlooker in the mill. They moved to 14 Ferrand Rd in Shipley around 1910, by 1914 they were at 15 Oastler Rd. From around 1918 they were living at 15 Rhodes St.

Edgar died 4 April 1934. He was buried in Nab Wood Cemetery, Shipley .

In the 1939 Register, Mary, his widow, was living with her daughter and her husband, Colin Holgate, at 15 Rhodes St.

Mary died 7 March 1949. She was buried alongside Edgar.

 

Hilda Spence was born, 14 May 1891, in Pateley Bridge to Mary Marshall and William Spence.

In 1911 they were living at 5 Bath Buildings, Saltaire. Hilda worked as a spinner and her father was a gardener.

Living at 27 George Street, Saltaire, Hilda married Samuel Devine, of 13 Caroline Street, Saltaire, on the 25 December 1920 at St. Peter’s, Shipley. Samuel was born c1890 in Glasgow. They had a daughter, Kathleen, born 21 October, 1921.

In the 1921 Census they were living with Hilda’s parents at 27 George Street. Hilda was a drawer at Saltaire Mills. Samuel worked as a packer for T. G. Porter, paper merchants, 21 Bond Street, Leeds.

In the 1939 Register Hilda was not living with her husband. She was a textile worker living with her daughter and widowed father at 2 Hillside Cottages, Shipley.

Samuel died in 1940. Widow Hilda married Walter Arthur Dukes in 1943. He was born c1889 in Leicestershire.

Walter died in 1964 in Idle. Hilda died in 1979 in Whitehaven, Cumbria.

 

Charles Durham, born 27 January, was the son of Samuel North Durham & Emma Petty. He was baptised 22 July 1894 in Calverley. Samuel, a lamplighter, died in 1896. Widower Emma married Arthur Marston in 1901.

In 1911 Charles was a spinning jobber living with his mother at 6 Park Street, Windhill. Working as a cloth finisher he married Mary Dean (born 9 November 1897) 11 April 1925 at St Paul’s, Shipley. She was a confectioner living at 15 Earl Street, Shipley. They had a daughter, Audrey, born 27 August 1929. From 1935 to 1939 they lived at Wells House, Shipley. Charles served in the Royal Navy in WW2.

Report in the Bradford Observer 14 November 1940: -

No news has been received of Leading Sick Berth Attendant Charles Durham, of Bradford, and Radio Officer Richard Shackleton, of Keighley, members of the crew of the merchant cruiser Jervis Bay, sunk by a German raider in the Atlantic. Durham, whose home is at 627 Bolton Road, Bradford, is 45 married, and has an 11-year-old daughter, Audrey.
As the surgeon of the Jervis Bay is among the survivors, Mrs. Durham is hopeful that her husband is also safe. A Reservist, he was called up on the outbreak of war, and was immediately drafted to the Jervis, Bay. His wife last saw him a year ago when he was on leave.
Throughout the last war Durham, served with the R.A.M.C. and was awarded the Mons Star. Since his youth he has been a member of the St. John Ambulance Brigade, Saltaire Mills division. He is a cloth finisher at Saltaire Mills. He was vicar's warden at St Chrysostom's Church before the war. His parents were the late Mr. and Mrs. Sam Durham, of Windhill.

His body was never recovered, he was pronounced as dead, 5 November 1940.

He is remembered on the Naval Memorial at Chatham.

His widow, Emma, died 15 April 1978 at 6 Pelham Road, Eccleshill. In her will she left £10,116.