Saltaire War Diary: 7 January 1916

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Shipley Tribunal

The first meeting of the Shipley Tribunal appointed to consider appeals by “Derby” recruits to be put into later groups, was held last night. A total of sixty seven men had given notice of appeal.
The Tribunal consists of Councillors T Hill (chairman), T F Doyle, C E Learoyd, F Rhodes and Mr Ernest Illingworth. A former member of the Council, Mr J A Burton represents the military authorities on the Tribunal.

Children Entertained

At the invitation of the Shipley War Service Club over 400 children between the ages of three and ten whose fathers are with the Forces, were on Thursday last entertained to a social gathering at the Saltaire Institute.
An appetising tea was served in the social rooms of the Institute, and this arrangement left the Victoria Hall free for the entertainment and the distribution of toys from a Christmas tree. A Punch and Judy Show, a conjuring entertainment, and magic lantern exhibition, with games and dances at intervals, all appealed strongly to the youthful mind. Sir and Lady Denby, who had done a great deal for the welfare of the Shipley soldiers, visited the gathering.

Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital

At the last monthly meeting of the Governors, Mr B Allsop presiding, there were present in addition to the chairman, Miss Dunn and Messrs W Cryer and F Lister. The hon. Secretary (Mr E Clifford Fry) reported that the number of out-patients treated during the past month were 79, and in-patients 17. The number at present in hospital was 9. The following subscriptions and gifts had been received:-
Collections (Hospital Sunday) – St Paul’s Church £2, Providence Wesleyan Chapel £2, Windhill Wesleyan Mission £1 1s 3d, Rosse Street Baptist Church £1 3s, Bethel Baptist Church 8s 5d.
Employees Sir Titus Salt, Bart, Sons and Co., Ltd., £8 17s 9d.
Employees C F Taylor and Co., £6 14s 4d.
Employees J Parkinson and Son, £6 6s 8d.
Employees Airedale Combing Co., Ltd, £2 1s 9d
Staff Midland Railway Station, £2 0s 1d
Bradford City Tramways (technical department), £1 1s.
Joint subscriptions
Windhill Industrial Co-operative Society, £25
Shipley Amateur Operatic Society, £15
Keighley Bros., Ltd., £1 1s
At Christmas Mr Harry Roberts kindly sent three brace of pheasants to the hospital.

Assault

At Otley, today, Jack West (22), an iron turner, of Shipley, was charged with having committed an assault on Nora McNicholas, an eight year old Baildon girl, in Saltaire Park on January 5th.
Mr H A Demaine of Bradford, in applying for a remand until Tuesday, said that the youth came of highly respectable parentage and he had been under the doctor for some time. Reasonable bail would be forthcoming.
Superintendent Warburton objected to bail on the grounds that the charge was too serious. A remand was granted until Tuesday, bail being refused.

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Saltaire War Diary: 14 January 1916

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Shipley Recruiting Tribunal

Under the first four groups called up the Shipley Tribunal have dealt with 66 appeals, 50 of which (chiefly cases of men employed in “reserved occupations”) have been granted. Several of those whose claims were not agreed to have intimated that they will appeal to the Central Tribunal in London.

Insurance Committee

The annual meeting of the Shipley District Insurance Committee was held at the Saltaire Institute on Thursday evening last.
The clerk (Mr T Laxton) read a communication from the County Committee stating that the Commissioners had extended the term of office of the present committee until the 31st March next. They reserved to themselves the right to further extend the period of office or to terminate it.
Councillor H Williams the chairman for the past year asked for the nomination of a chairman for the extended period.
Mr E A Dean proposed and Mr J Stephenson (Bingley) seconded the appointment of Mr J Alderson (Shipley) as vice-chairman for 1916 and the motion was unanimously adopted.
Mr Alderson, in taking the chair, thanked the committee for the compliment paid him, spoke of the work of the organisation and its possibilities during the coming year.

Women Liberals

Although they possess no recognised committee for dealing with comforts for the troops, the members of the local Women’s Liberal Association have done an enormous amount of work since the outbreak of the war.
The work is kept going by the voluntary offerings of the members, who at each meeting make a collection. The first parcel of comforts supplied by the Shipley Women Liberals, was sent to Mrs Asquith, for distribution, whilst later, Mrs Percy Illingworth had, in them a very enthusiastic band of supporters. Much had been done for the Belgians.
The last parcel was forwarded to the Saltaire Congregational Sewing Party. It is proposed to send the next parcel to Lady Denby, who is keenly interested in the work of helping the soldiers and sailors and who is prepared to supply any local soldier or sailor with comforts.

Shipley Textile Society

The next meeting of the Shipley Textile Society will be held in the Technical Schools on Monday, January 17th, 1916, when a lecture will be given by Mr Ellis Foster (of Messrs. Prince Smith and Son). The subject will be, “Combing: A Comparison of Different Combs”. Chair to be taken at 7.30pm by Mr Stephen Binns. The meeting is free and open to the public.

A meeting has been arranged to the City of Bradford Technical College Textile Department on Monday February 14th 1916. Lady friends invited. Members desiring to go on this visit are requested to give their names to the secretary (Mr W Scott) on or before January 17th 1916.

Old Saltaire Cricketer’s Death

One of the best bowlers the Saltaire Cricket Club has produced died on Wednesday, in the person of William Beaver of 6 Victoria Road, Saltaire.
The deceased, who had attained his 70th year was the first professional engaged by the Saltaire club, and was the club’s groundsman for a considerable period. His love of sport never left him. Last year he received a medal for the best performance in a veterans cricket match at Saltaire Park, and he also won first prize in a veterans bowling handicap at Crowgill Park, Shipley.

Lantern Lecture

A social gathering was held at the Saltaire Wesleyan Sunday School on Saturday evening, in aid of Foreign Missions. The first half of the evening was taken up with the presentation of a missionary sketch depicting a scene in the life of an Indian Pundit’s family. It was taken part in by Miss E Deacon, Miss Ruby Ashby, Miss Elsie Bentley, Miss May Bentley, Miss Eva Newall, Miss Elsie Hardaker, Miss Gladys Moore, Mr A Midgley, Mr A Raistrick. Two children also assisted – Misses Mary Allsop and Hilda Thomas.
The remainder of the programme consisted of a lantern lecture entitled, “Trinidad,” delivered by the Rev. W B Mattinson. The reverend gentleman has spent many years in Trinidad as a missionary, and his stories of native life and customs there were highly entertaining. Mr William Raistrick had charge of the lantern.
The proceeds amounted to upwards of £3.

Marriage

St Peters Shipley 8 January 1916
Walter Ives, 23, wool combing overlooker, of Cottingley, married Elizabeth Crabtree, 22, of 10 George Street Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 21 January 1916

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Overlookers

The Saltaire weaving overlookers had their annual supper and concert on Friday at the Victoria Hotel. After a substantial repast, songs glees, duets etc. were rendered by Messrs P Seddon, H Sutcliffe, F Bradshaw, W Holroyd and H Holmes.
Mr A Whitham who presided, proposed the loyal toast, and said that as a result of the war the nation and the Throne had been welded more closely together than they had ever been before. The toast was proposed by Mr W Storey, who had said that although passing through strenuous times he was pleased to say the firm had a year of unbroken prosperity.
Altogether a very enjoyable evening was spent.

Institute Club

The annual meeting of the Saltaire Institute Club was held on Wednesday evening at the Saltaire Institute. Prior to the meeting, Mr E C Fry (chairman of the committee) entertained the members of the Free Libraries Committee of the District Council and the officials of the club to tea. Mr Fry presided at the meeting which followed.
In presenting the annual report and balance sheet, Mr F White (hon. sec. and treasurer) said that there was a decrease in membership of ten. There were 122 members, and in all probability this number would decrease still further during the present year. Twenty four members had joined Hi Majesty’s Forces, and out of that number two had obtained commissions after serving in the ranks, namely Second Lieutenant A R Jukes and Second Lieutenant T R Ibbetson. The committee heartily congratulated both of them upon their promotion.
The usual billiard handicaps had been played, and the club had only lost one match up to the present in the Shipley Billiard League, and were hoping to carry off the cup this year.
The club had been in existence about eight years, and during that time £315 had been handed over to the council from the profits. The amount paid in rent was £80, and in addition a new billiard table was bought at a cost of £57 to replace one taken for the use of the members of the Fire Brigade, making in all a total of £452. £102 had been paid to the council for gas, and £115 had been spent on billiard requisites and recovered billiard tables. The financial statement for this year showed a balance in the bank of £1 8s 6d, whist the cash in hand amounted to 13s 0d.
Mr J Walker was appointed hon. sec. and treasurer, and the following elected to the committee: Messrs. E C Fry, T Oxley, E N Armitage, H Feather, J Stringer and S Holdsworth.
Mr Fry, who presented to the club a framed roll of honour containing the names of the members with the colours, asked the executive committee to accept the gift which he had prepared, and to have it placed in the club room so that visitors might read, mark and learn who the men were who had sacrificed so much for the sake of their country.
A vote of thanks to Mr Fry was proposed by Councillor Thos. Hill (chairman of the District Council), who complimented the committee on the business-like manner in which they conducted the club.
Councillor C E Learoyd seconded and remarked that he was a member of the Institute club before he was eight years of age. (Laughter). The opinion had been expressed that some use might be made of some portion of the building, but whether the idea was practicable or not remained to be seen. It was the duty of the Libraries committee to try and popularise the Institute and to get people to take appreciate more the advantages of the reading room, and library. He was convinced that when the war was over, a great future awaited the Institute, and the Victoria Hall, as well as the buildings generally.
Councillor E Cowgill, who supported the resolution of thanks, said that the gift presented to the club by Mr Fry, would be a memento more valuable in his opinion, than anything else hanging in that room. A man could do no more than offer his all to the service of his country as those men had done.
Mr Fry briefly responded, and added that the welfare of the Institute club, had become part of his life interest, and almost part of his very being.

Church Parade

Arrangements have been made for a church parade to take place at the Parish Church on Sunday afternoon, the 30th inst. The Shipley Volunteer Corps accompanied by the band are to attend. They will fall in at Albert Road and the Derby recruits, members of the Recruiting Committee and the canvassers are requested to join in behind the Volunteers.

Saltaire Child’s Death

At an inquest held on the body of a child named Ralph Thorpe, aged 3 months, at the Saltaire Institute on Tuesday a verdict of “Death from natural causes” was returned. The mother Mrs Willie Thorpe, of 20 Dove Street, Saltaire stated that as usual the child went to bed on Saturday night. At about two o’clock she fed it and then fell asleep. When she awoke on Sunday morning about seven o’clock, the baby was dead. He had slept on the outside of the bed.
Coroner (Mr E W Norris): “Are you sure the baby’s head was not underneath the bed clothes?” “I am quite sure.”
Dr John Emerson said he had made a post mortem examination, and in his opinion the child died from asphyxiation.

Shipley Child’s Death

An inquest was held on Friday (14th), at the Saltaire Institute on the body of a child named Lawrence Richard Pickard, aged three years and eleven months, who died suddenly on the previous day. Evidence was given by Emily Pickard of 10 Melbourne St. Shipley, grandmother, who said that for two years the deceased had resided with her. The child’s mother was dead and his father worked in the South.
On the Wednesday he went to school and in the evening retired to rest about 8 o’clock, when he complained he was sick. At six o’clock next morning he seemed worse. She took him downstairs and placed him in front of the fire. Dr Emerson was sent for but before his arrival at seven o’clock the child had died. Witnesses stated the child suffered from black measles and convulsions.
Dr Emerson said that when he received the summons to attend the child he was at a case which he could not immediately leave, but when he did arrive at the house at about seven o’clock, the child had passed away.
As the result of a post mortem it was found that there was inflammation of one lung and also evidence of tuberculosis in the liver and lungs.
A verdict of “Death from natural causes” was returned.

Saltaire Congregational Prize Distribution

Upwards of 150 prizes have been obtained by the scholars at the Saltaire Congregational School.
Mr G Sutcliffe, who for ten years has capably discharged the duties of organist and choirmaster at the church, was the recipient of a canteen of cutlery on the occasion of his leaving to take up a similar appointment at the Salem Congregational Church in Manningham.

In Memoriam

Mosley – In loving memory of my dear husband, Stephen Mosley, who passed away Jan, 22nd, 1905.
6 Shirley Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 28 January 1916

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Saltaire Soldier’s Thrilling Experience

Private Norman K Gregory of the 16th West Yorkshire Regiment, youngest son of Mr and Mrs Gregory of Victoria Road, Saltaire, has written to a friend relating his experiences during the voyage from this country in Egypt. He says:-

“It is the evening of Christmas Day, and I wish I could just transport you to where I am. It is a real education and I cannot help thinking that after all it is but a dream.
We arrived here last Tuesday (21 December 1915), I cannot tell you where I am but we are in tents on a big tract of sand. The sand is a comfortable bed, yet a great nuisance. We have to tie cloths around our rifles and even then the sand gets through somehow or another. Naturally we ate a large amount of it too.
Our sea voyage was a trifle too anxious and exciting for my liking. I was seasick for about three days in the Bay of Biscay, and had a sort of throw-me-over-board feeling. After I recovered I enjoyed the life until we cut a 3,000 ton steamer in two. The accident occurred about midnight and it was anything but pleasant waking up to that. We rescued most of the people on board, and I thought at first we were going down. Chased by submarines! How does that sound? It is a fact, I can assure you. We sent a shell into one of them, and were rewarded by a torpedo, which missed us by about 10 yards, thank goodness!
We called at Malta on the way here, but we were not allowed to land. It looked picturesque enough and was my first scene of the Oriental. However, we are ready for anything and I feel in the best of health, which is a good thing.
It is winter here and the natives are cold, but for us it is as hot as a midsummer day; if anything the sun is more powerful, so I don’t know what it will be like when summer does come. Down near to where we are encamped it is a fascinating sight to see the open-air cafes, etc. I have seen all kinds of nationalities, but I don’t care much for the Arabs.
We are not allowed in the native quarter, nor do I possess a desire to go there. I suppose we shall have a good deal to go through, in the course of which, I might enhance my knowledge and broaden my views of life.
We had a first class dinner on Christmas Day considering the circumstances. We had stew, Christmas pudding (cold), oranges, apples, dates and figs etc., - a right tuck in. We are hoping that next Christmas will find us back at home.”

Saltaire Institute as a Cinema Theatre

The proposal to establish a cinema theatre at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire has collapsed. The West Riding County Council (the licensing authority) required structural alterations estimated to cost £800 (value c£65k in 2016), and the special committee of the Shipley Council appointed to negotiate with the Imperial Animated Picture Company, who were anxious to lease the hall, are not prepared to recommend to the Council the expenditure of that sum.
The alterations included:-
New exits would have to be provided.
The side galleries could not be used unless exits into Exhibition Road were made.
The west gallery would have to be underdrawn with 6ins of concrete.
Alterations to the seating would be necessary.    
Councillor Cowgill (chairman of the Libraries Committee) stated that critics of the scheme came from “a circumscribed quarter of the town” and that these critics should now be prepared to suggest other means of preventing the place from being a burden upon the rates.

Congregational Church

The annual supper promoted by the men associated with the Saltaire Congregational Church and Sunday school took place on Saturday evening when a large number partook of the repast.
Those who presided over the tables were Mrs Pringle, Mrs W Bayliffe, Mrs Hustler, Mrs Stobart, Miss Jessop, Miss Margeson, Miss Witts, Miss Harris, Miss F Bayliffe, Miss Sutcliffe, Miss Spiers, Miss Bray, Miss Riley and Miss Harrison.
The following members of the 1st Saltaire Troop of Boy scouts under Drummer G Glover rendered valuable assistance. Privates J Dennison, E Exley, W Wade, H Whitham, F Stellings, J Hustler and O Hustler.
Subsequently a toast list interspersed with vocal and instrumental items was gone through under the presidency of the Rev P Drummond Pringle (pastor). Others present were Mr J W Sowden, Mr Thomas Whiteley, Mr Walter Popplestone, Mr Nathaniel Clark, Mr C A Pollard, Mr P G Wilson, Mr B Laycock, Mr H Williamson, Mr S Illingworth and Mr Wilfred Bayliffe.
Mr Wilfrid Bayliffe submitted the toast of the “Sunday School,” devoting his remarks mainly to the subject of the Young Men Class of which he is secretary. He said that fifty of their young men had enlisted, and they were expecting shortly to have their members further depleted. Three of their members had been killed – Driver Sam Shackleton, Corporal Joe Stead and Private Sam Spencer.
He (the speaker) was convinced that the young men would come back from the war with quite a different conception of life, and would put much more enthusiasm into the work of the school.
The class had been remarkably well served during the past year by such able leaders as Mr C A Pollard and Mr F G Wilson who deserved great credit for their endeavours to maintain interest in the class. The young men were proud of their leaders and hoped to have their services for years for many years to come.

Salts Hospital Board

The monthly meeting of the Governors of the Sir Titus Salt Charity was held at the Saltaire Hospital on Wednesday evening. Mr B Allsop (chairman) presiding, and the other members were present Mrs Salt, Miss Dunn, Mr E L Baumann, Mr W Cryer, Councillor A Gill, Councillor John Pitts and Mr T Kendall.
It was stated that there were eleven in-patients at the hospital at the present time, and there had been fourteen operations performed during the month.
The following subscriptions had been received:-
Sir Titus Salts Ltd - £21
Midland Railway Company - £25 5s
Independent Order of Oddfellows (M.U.), Shipley District - £5 5s
North Bierley Guardians - £2 2s
Postmaster, Shipley (gains and fines) – 12s 6d
Misses Knott (thanks-offering) – 10s
Employees Charlestown Combing Co Ltd - £5
Employees Baildon Combing Co Ltd - £2 4s 10d
Employees Scott Engineering Co Ltd - £2 4s 6d
The weavers at Saltaire Mills - £1 3s 4d
Employees of Lee and Crabtree - £1 2s 6d
The Midland Railway Engineering Dept. - £1 1d
Employees of J R Fyfe and Co – 15s
Employees of the Shipley Urban District Council (Gas Dept.) – 11s 8d
Saltaire Congregational Church - £1 11s

A letter was read from Mrs Fyfe, resigning her position of Governor owing to indifferent health. A resolution was passed to the effect that the Governors received the resignation with much regret and thanked Mrs Fyfe for her services during many years.

Double Presentation

Two presentations took place on Monday night at the Saltaire Congregational Sunday school. The members of the choir gave to Mr Geo Sutcliffe (organist and choirmaster), on the occasion of his leaving to take up a similar post at the Salem Congregational Church, Manningham, a handsome French clock (suitably inscribed). The gift was handed to Mr Sutcliffe by Mr N Clarke, who voiced the good wishes of the choir for the recipient’s future success. Mr F Dracup spoke in a somewhat similar strain, and Mr Surcliffe made a neat little speech in accepting the present.
Mr Robert Gill, who has been a member of the choir for forty years, was also presented with a cake stand by his colleagues as a mark of appreciation for his long services. The veteran vocalist was heartily congratulated on the way in which he had stuck to the choir and the hope was expressed that he would live long to enjoy the use of the gift.
Mr Gill is popular not only amongst local musicians but also in sporting circles. So long has he been scorer of the Saltaire club that he is regarded by the members as indispensable.

Soldier Home

Pioneer-Sergeant Samuel Thomas Green of the 8th Battalion West Riding Regiment, who was wounded in action at the Dardanelles on August 21st last has arrived at his home, 13 Rhodes Street, and has had a very hearty reception by his numerous reception.

Workers Educational Association

The first of a series of ten lectures to be delivered under the auspices of the Workers Educational Association, by Mr G W Gibson, M.A. (of Halifax), on “The Growth of Democracy in Europe since 1815,” was given last Thursday evening at the Technical School.

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Saltaire War Diary: 4 February 1916

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Saltaire Generations

There are two generations of the family of Mr William Campbell, postmaster at Saltaire, serving their country in the war. Son Thomas, and his two sons, Fred and Tom, are all doing their bit in trying to defeat the enemy.
Sapper Thomas Campbell, although over 50 years of age, joined the forces on the outbreak of the war, and he is now serving on the Continent in the signalling section of the Royal Engineers. He is a native of Saltaire and before joining the forces was engaged in the Telegraphic Department of the Leeds Post Office. He is a crack billiards player, and has shown his exceptional abilities in this connection even since he went to France.
Sapper Fred Campbell, who is 20 years old, is also in the signalling section of the Royal Engineers. Before the outbreak of the war he was a telegraphist of the staff of the “Leeds Mercury.” He learnt telegraphy with his grandfather, and while living in Shipley was a companion of Corporal Driver, who has been awarded the D.C.M. In a letter to his mother, Sapper Campbell, gives a vivid account of the trying times experienced in the Sulva Bay evacuation. He says:-

“I am writing this letter in a very awkward position. No doubt before you receive this you will have read of the “Evacuation of Sulva Bay”. The bay was my base from the first day I arrived on the Peninsula (12th October) until the never to be forgotten night of the 19th and 20th of December. My experiences during this time were somewhat varied, but suffice to say my last night in Gallipoli will be put down as one of my red letter days.
About a fortnight before the evacuation I was appointed to join the Brigade on Chocolate Hill. Now Chocolate Hill had suffered more casualties than any other particular point along our front – the signal office had been blown in once. You can imagine I felt a little nervy on my way to my new post. My chum, Heller, and myself were relieving two divisional men working the Brigade Divisional Headquarters line. We arrived all right, though of course we had to go through the usual excitement of dodging stray bullets and snipers. We had a guide who knew the road perfectly so we don’t mind much. But I must confess the bullets were a little too lively, whizzing past our heads or our sides. I had very little sleep the first night on Chocolate Hill.
As the next fortnight gradually wore on, the rumours increased regarding an evacuation of Sulva. We often argued in the signal office how it would be done, and who would be left behind until the end to keep up communication. As the time drew near, and things were more or less settled, my chum and I arranged to toss for who should stay behind. The man who went ahead had a two and half hours start of the others, so would have a very good chance of getting clear if anything did happen.
Well, we tossed and I lost, so I had to stay behind to the very last. Everything arranged, it came to the last night. At eleven o’clock the majority of the troops left, leaving a few men to hold the whole line. Just fancy! A few men holding a Turkish army on a front of five or more miles. Two of us, a battalion operator and myself, in the office about 600 yards from the firing line, with our officer. This was the situation for two and half hours, everything was quiet! Not a rifle shot was heard, unless it was that of an occasional sniper. The Turks seemed to have become quiet as ourselves. Every now and then I would look up at the watch. At 1.30 am we were to leave, never have I known time to go so slowly. The battalion operator and I would talk and smoke to keep ourselves alive.
At last the O.C. arrived, ‘Everything quiet Campbell?’ ‘Yes sir; all quiet on our front’. ‘Right! Let the division know’. This done we broke communication with our neighbouring brigade. ’Now, Campbell, let the Division know we are closing down’ ‘Right, sir’. You can imagine how pleased I was to pack my set ready for starting. At last we said ‘good-bye’ to the officer. After cutting the line we met our O.C. at the bottom of the hill. So I can say I was one of the last two British soldiers on Chocolate Hill. Everything went off splendidly. We got away without a single casualty, unless you count a man hit on the head by a stray bullet a casualty; he was just behind me. The march down to the boat nearly killed me. I hope I shall never have another like it. After knocking about from one place to another we are now resting, and a well-earned rest too. I do hope it is some time before we go into action again”

While a member of the Airedale Cycling Club Mr William Campbell secured second prize in a 30 mile race, when 72 years of age. This was a marvellous feat for the old gentleman considering his years.

Missing Soldier

Sergeant W S Marshall, of the second Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, elder son of Mr and Mrs Marshall of 29 Whitlam Street, Saltaire, has been missing since November 11th 1914. He was a reservist and was called up on the outbreak of the war.
The last letter his wife received from him was dated November 5th 1914 at which time he was in good health. This week word has been received from the authorities that no further news had been received concerning him, and that he had not been traced as a prisoner of war.
Sergeant Marshall formerly resided at 30 Bishop Street, Manningham. His wife is at present living at 8 Buxton Street, Manningham.
His brother, Harold, is in the navy.

Saltaire Youths with the Colours

Two sons of Mr and Mrs John Gregory, of Victoria Rd., Saltaire, are in the Army. The youngest son Private Norman K Gregory enlisted in the Bradford “Pals” and is a former member of the office staff at Messrs. Driver Bros., (of Silsden). He has some thrilling experiences during the voyage from this country to Egypt.
The second son, Private Gilbert Gregory, enlisted in September of 1914, in the 16th West Yorkshire Regiment. Prior to enlisting he was employed at Bradford by the National Telephone Company.
The eldest son, Mr Arthur Gregory is not we are sorry to say in the enjoyment of good health. He was formerly secretary of the Saltaire Cricket Club for which organisation he rendered yeoman service. Up to being stricken down by illness four months ago, he was employed by the National Telephone Company as assistant manager for the Western Lancashire District.
Mrs S A Green of 12 Whitlam Street, Saltaire, has three sons and a son in law serving in the army.
Private A E Green who is in the 1st 6th Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment is home on short leave. He enlisted in August of 1914, and went to the front in April of 1915. He has been in hospital for sixteen weeks suffering from rheumatic fever. At present he is having a well-earned rest at home.
Private Charlie Green enlisted in November of 1914, in the Royal Field Artillery. He is now in a hospital in Sheffield.
Bandsman Willie Green enlisted on the same date as his brother Charlie, and he is now in training at Wareham. He is a member of the band of the 12th Worcesters.
Mrs Green’s son-in-law, Private Arthur Kitchen, enlisted in November of 1915 in the Seaforth Highlanders. He is training at Ripon.

New Production

The Amateur Thespian Society are to produce “The Yeoman of the Guard” at the Saltaire Institute during the week commencing Feb 14th.
The society was formed in 1913 and originated with the St Paul’s Young Men’s Association. In the year they played “The Pay of the Pied Piper,” whilst last year they played “Iolanthe.” Since its formation the society has made great progress. The president is Mr F Rhodes, and Mr W Ward is the secretary and treasurer. On this occasion, the proceeds will be for the local charities.   

Volunteers

An interesting event in connection with the Volunteer movement at Shipley took place in a field adjoining the grounds of Ferniehurst, Baildon, the residence of Mg G C Waud, on Saturday, when the Shipley Volunteers were formally “taken over” by the 3rd Battalion Bradford Volunteers.
About 300 of the Bradford members of the Battalion paraded with the Shipley Company, which was 160 strong, opposite the latter’s headquarters, the Albert Road School, Saltaire, and headed by the Shipley Brass Band, and the battalion’s drum and bugle band, proceeded
to Ferniehurst. A considerable number of “Derby” recruits who been drilling with the volunteers in Bradford and Shipley joining the procession.

Recruiting Tribunal

At the meeting of the district Recruiting Tribunal, on Monday night, 16 men were granted postponement of service, 12 were found to be in reserved occupation, and instructions were given for 25 to be notified that their written statements were not regarded as satisfactory, but that they may appear personally in support of their application if they wish. In only one case was a definite refusal recorded.

“At Home”

Lady Denby is to open the “At Home” at the Saltaire Wesleyan Church tonight. The proceeds are to be distributed between the Shipley Wesleyan Soldiers’ Fund and the Red Cross Society. Both Lady Denby and Sir Ellis are keenly interested in all the local work for the soldiers but more particularly in the efforts of the Shipley Wesleyan Soldiers’ Fund Committee.

Marriages

29 January 1916 at St Pauls Shipley
Arthur Henry Long, 29, master painter of 2 Birkland Terrace in Shipley married Nora Boocock, 28, of 10 Mawson Street in Saltaire.

29 January 1916 at St Peters Shipley
Robert John Thompson Middleton Rutherford, 25, clerk of 21 Shirley Street in Saltaire married Ethel Moore, 25 of 11 Katherine Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 11 February 1916

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Local Lads Doing Their Bit

Mrs Sam Bower of 10 Maddocks Street Saltaire has five sons and two son-in-laws serving in the Army. The second son, Private Gordon Bower, enlisted in October 1915 in the 1st 6th West Yorkshire Regiment, and a week ago he went to France. Private Harold Bower, the third son, who is in the 2nd 6th West Yorkshire Regiment is at present in training. He enlisted in October 1915.
Private George Bower who is serving with the 2nd 6th Duke of Wellington’s Regiment and is in training. He enlisted in December of 1914. Private R Roebuck (son-in-law) is in France serving with the Army Service Corps. He enlisted in October of 1914. Private S Hardcastle (son-in-law) is in the 1st 6th West Yorkshire Regiment. He enlisted in November 1914. For several months he has been at the front, where he has had many exciting experiences. Some time ago he was wounded and on his recovery he was sent to Mansfield.

Mrs Bower’s other sons, Mr S Bower and Mr John Bower, have attested under Lord Derby’s scheme.

(Author’s note – I can find no record of S. Bower. The 1911 census states there only four brothers.)

Notification of Tuberculosis

Mr Jennings Alderson (chairman), presided at the monthly meeting of the Shipley District Insurance Committee last Thursday evening at the Saltaire Institute. A resolution had been passed at the previous meeting urging that cases of tuberculosis should be notified to the insurance committee as well as to the local public health authorities, and at Thursday’s meeting a letter was read from the county committee stating that this suggestion could only be carried out into effect as a result of further legislation. The Chairman remarked that the resolution of the Shipley Committee asked the county authority to take the necessary steps to secure legislative action.
Dr Firth (Baildon) said it was compulsory for practitioners to notify to medical officers cases of pulmonary tuberculosis. There were however, various other forms of the disease. Doctors did not receive any fee for the notifications of births, and they were inclined to object to the tendency of the authorities to increase their clerical work.
Alderman H Dunn observed that medical officers of health should supply to the insurance committee copies of the notifications received from the doctors who were attending the cases.
It was decided to communicate further with the county committee on the subject, urging that the legislation was necessary.

“Olde English Faire at Saltaire”

Patriotic “At Homes” were held at the Saltaire Wesleyan Sunday Schools on Friday and Saturday under the style of the “Old English Faire.”
In addition to helping the general fund in Shipley for the provision of comforts for local soldiers and sailors, the ladies associated with the three Wesleyan Churches in the (Saltaire, Shipley, and Hall Royd) districts are sending gifts to the men from these churches who have joined the forces. It was with the purpose of assisting the fund for the latter purpose, and also the British Red Cross Society that the “Faire” was organised.
The opening ceremony was performed on Friday evening by Lady Denby. Mr S Harland presided and was supported by Sir Ellis Denby, the Rev. David Ashby, and the Rev W B Pattinson.
The opening ceremony for Saturday had been well arranged and from a spectators point of view exceedingly pretty indeed. The actual opening was daintily performed by Miss Mary Roberts (elder daughter of the late Mr B F Roberts, and of Mrs Roberts, The Knoll, Baildon), and Miss Doreen Constantine.
An interesting feature of the ceremony was the procession on to the platform of about forty young children, each of whom handed to Miss Roberts a small donation in aid of the object of the “Faire.” Contributions were added by the “chairman” and Miss Roberts, and with evident the latter announced that the children’s offering amounted to £12.
The stalls were well patronised and they realised an amount of £120.

Death

Mr Henry Stolworthy, a member of the North Bierley Board of Guardians, who resides at 49 Caroline Street, Saltaire, has just (7th February) suffered the loss of his wife. The sympathy of his large circle of friends and acquaintances, will go out to him at this period of sadness.

Internment

Eliza Dewhirst, aged 70, of 22 Titus Street in Saltaire, 9th Feb at St Paul’s Shipley.

Saltaire War Diary: 18 February 1916

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Girls High School

In aid of the local War Relief Fund, the pupils of the Girls’ High school, Saltaire, are engaged in the preparations of a dramatic and musical entertainment entitled, “The Sea Power of England” (by Lady Stachey), which will be produced shortly.

Shipley Textile Society

The next meeting of the Society will be held in the Technical Schools on Monday February 21st, when a lecture will be given by Mr T Barrett (of the Bradford Technical College). The subject will be, “Pencil and Brush in Textile Design.”
Chair to be taken at 7.30pm by Mr W Popplestone (Director of Education).
The meeting is free and open to the public.

Shipley Corps

Company Orders for week ending Sunday February 27th 1916
Saturday Feb 19th – General parade, Albert Road, 2.15pm
Sunday Feb 20th – Church parade to St Peter’s (a good attendance is requested), Albert Road 10am
Monday Feb 21st – 1) Platoon No 1, Otley Road, 8pm; 2) Platoon No 2, Rifle Range, 7.30pm; 3) Signallers Section, Albert Road, 7.45pm.
Tuesday Feb 22nd – 1) Platoon No 3, Albert Road, 8pm; 2) Derby Recruits, Albert Road, 8pm.
Wednesday Feb 23rd – 1) Shooting (for all members), Rifle Range, 7.30pm; 2) Signallers’ Section, Albert Road, 7.45pm; 3) Military Council, Albert Road, 8pm; 4) Band Practice, Albert Road, 8.15pm.
Thursday Feb 24th – 1) Platoon No 1, Rifle Range, 7.30pm; 2) Platoon No 2, Albert Road, 8pm; 3) Derby Recruits, Albert Road, 8pm.
Friday Feb 25th – Platoon No 3, Rifle Range, 7.30pm.
Saturday Feb 26th – No parade.
Sunday Feb 27th – General parade, Albert Road, 10am
By Order – F Rhodes.

Saltaire War Diary: 25 February 1916

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Shipley Recruiting Tribunal

The first open meeting of the Shipley Recruiting Tribunal is to be held tonight at Somerset House, under the presidency of Councillor Thomas Hill (chairman of the Shipley District Council).
Twenty-two applications for postponement of military service will be dealt with, and for the first time the Tribunal has the power either to grant absolute exemption or to exempt men service until definite dates.
All the claims except two are made by the men’s employers, and the occupations represented in addition to the textile industry, include shop assistants (butcher, tobacconist, grocer), painters, farmers, clerks and dentistry.

Local Soldiers Promotion

The news of the promotion to Sergeant of Allan Walsh, R.R.A., who, before the war resided with his wife at 4 Fern Place, Saltaire, will be welcome news to his numerous friends in the district. He enlisted at the outbreak of the war and went to France in July, 1915.
So far he not sustained the slightest injury. His promotion to sergeant was exceedingly popular with the men of his company, and, as an instance of the affectionate relationship which exists between the men and himself, in a recent letter to his wife, Sergeant Walsh said that he had received an offer of the rank of Quartermaster Sergeant in another company, but so insistent were the men that he should remain with his old comrades, that he had decided to refuse the proffered appointment and stay where he was. So delighted were the men that in order to demonstrate their gratification they made a collection amongst themselves and with the money raised brought a handsome signet ring, bearing the R.F.A. crest and presented it to Sergeant Walsh. The latter in his letter, adds that the present will be valued as one of his most treasured possessions as long as he lives.
He has recently been in a rest camp behind the firing line, but expresses the hope that he will soon go forward again, as he prefers the actual fighting to the monotony of the camp. He is shortly expecting to come over to this country on leave. Sergeant Walsh was only married shortly before going to France.  

  Convalescent

The numerous friends of Mr Arthur Gregory (of Lytham), formerly secretary of Saltaire Cricket Club, will be pleased to hear that he is progressing surely if slowly. Arthur has had a hard time of it, and once it was feared that he would be unable to pull through.
He has just gone into the country to recuperate. That he may soon be restored to health and strength is the sincere wish of all who know him. In a letter which we have received from him, Mr Gregory, who is Assistant Traffic Manager for the West Lancashire District (General Post Office), says that after his “rest,” he hopes to be able to continue his “innings,” and not to be “out” for many years to come.

Salts Hospital

The monthly meeting of the Board of Governors of the Sir Titus Salt Charity was held on Wednesday night, at the Hospital. Councillor C E Learoyd presided in the absence of Mr B Allsop (chairman). The others present were, Mr E L Baumann, Mr Walker Cryer, Mr T Kendall, and Mr F Lister.
The monthly report stated that there had been 69 out-patients, and eleven in-patients at the beginning of the month, nineteen had since been admitted, making a total of thirty. The number of patients discharged was twenty-five and at the time of the meeting there were five in the hospital.
The following donations were sent: Messrs J Parkinson and Son, £10; Bradford Dyers Association, £5 5s. and a number of rabbits from Mr Crabtree, of Burnsall.

Marriages

St Pauls Shipley - 19 February - William Haworth, a fitter aged 28, of 5 Rhodes Street Saltaire married Lucy Birch Bamforth, aged 25, of Staveley Grange.
St Peters Shipley – 21 February – William Johnson, a driver in the Royal Field Artillery aged 24, of 37 Caroline Street Saltaire married Sarah Elsie Wakefield aged 24, of 6 Lockwood Street Saltaire.

Burial

22 February – Hirst Wood – May Smith, aged 24, of 16 Jane Street Saltaire

In Memoriam

Brook – In loving memory of Thomas Brook, who departed this life Feb 24th 1915.
He is gone, he is gone to the regions of light;
He was with us last year, but in heaven tonight.
To part with my father was a trial severe,
Yet he is far better off with Jesus than here.
From his daughter, 16 Whitlam Street, Saltaire 

Saltaire War Diary: 3 March 1916

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Tribunal – First open Meeting – Friday 25th February

The first meeting in public of the Shipley Recruiting Tribunal was held last Friday (25th February) at the District Council Offices (Somerset House). Councillor Thomas Hill (chairman) presided and other members of the Tribunal present were Councillors C E Learoyd, T F Doyle, F F Rhodes and Mr Ernest Illingworth. Mr J A Burton J.P. attended (military representative).
Twenty-two applications by or on behalf of men who had attested under Lord Derby’s scheme were considered. Of these, ten were refused, eight were granted postponements, and three were declared to be exempt through their being at present engaged in reserved occupations, whilst one application was withdrawn.
Appeals were made by Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd., on behalf of Mr Joseph H N Roberts (described as managing director), Mr Harry Griffiths (chief clerk, and foreman in the worsted coating department), Mr James A Midgley, (designing room clerk) and Mr Percy G Baker (clerk of works).
Mr C H Briggs was present on behalf of the firm.

With respect to Mr Griffiths, the chairman said that the Tribunal had carefully considered the appeal but from the particulars given they were unable to find sufficient grounds to grant the application.
Mr Briggs: I am sorry to hear you say that Mr Chairman. This man is indispensable to us on the manufacturing side of the business. Several men have gone out of this department, and if Mr Griffiths is not allowed to remain, the business will be dislocated. I appeal to you to grant him exception. It takes some time to train a man for this particular work and we cannot put a woman in. Neither can we get a man to take his place. Mr Griffiths is present, and will answer any questions you care to put to him.
The Chairman: He is not the chief man in this department?
Mr Briggs: No, but one man cannot do everything.
The Chairman: There is a head of the department?
Mr Briggs: Yes, but he is not always at Saltaire. He goes to Bradford every day and has a multitude of other duties to perform. Therefore there must be someone to take up certain particular parts of his work.
The Chairman: The point that weighed with the Tribunal was that he was not the head of the department. Cannot you bring another man in to do his work or lift someone up into his position?
Mr Briggs: You cannot lift them up because we have not men to lift up.
The Chairman: How many men have you lost out of your department?
Mr Griffiths: Four out of a total of nine
Mr Burton: I do not find this man’s name in the list you supplied me with of men likely to require consideration. When did you discover that he would be indispensable?
Mr Briggs: The name had been overlooked, but we sent a special request to you afterwards.
The Chairman: I am very sorry that the tribunal cannot allow this appeal.
Mr Briggs remarked that if the company took a different view he supposed they would be able to make a further appeal. The Chairman replied that he understood there is a district tribunal, but the clerk (Mr I Lindow) will give you full particulars.

In regard to Mr James Arthur Midgley, Mr Briggs said the former held an important position, and the company could not well do without him.
The Chairman: How many men are there in the department?
Mr Midgley: There were nine, but three have already gone, three were called up under the Derby scheme, and one is awaiting orders from the Navy. I am the only one for whom the firm is appealing.
The Chairman: You have replaced these men with girl clerks. I suppose there will be a head of the department?
Mr Briggs: Mr Harry Roberts is the head of that department.
The Chairman: So that Midgley is in charge under Mr Roberts
Mr Briggs: Mr Harry Roberts wished me to especially his name. He appeals to you to grant this application.
Mr Burton: May I ask, are the circumstances likely to be easier in a month’s time than they are now?
Mr Briggs: I am afraid from the way in which you are handling these cases, the circumstances are going to be worse. You have got my back against the wall now, and I have to fight for these men because if we do not get them excused there is going to be a dead-lock in our business such as never ought to arise or be threatened. We must have somebody else to manage matters at corners or else, where are we going to be – I cannot tell you where.
Councillor Rhodes: There will be dislocation all round, Mr Briggs.
Mr Briggs: I was told that there is inconvenience all round.
The Chairman: In this case we appreciate the fact that this department has done a good deal to help the cause for which we are all fighting, and the Tribunal will grant the he should be put back to May 1st so that arrangements may be made in the meantime to ease the situation.

With respect to Mr P Gordon Baker, Mr Briggs said that the Tribunal had already received a good many particulars. With the Tribunals permission he would add some more facts.
The Chairman intimated that they were fully alive as to the man’s duties and while they admitted that he held an important position they were of the opinion that he could be replaced by a man who was ineligible for the Army.
Mr Briggs observed that that was hardly the proper way to look at the matter. In his opinion the man who occupied the position today was the best man and should be allowed to remain. “We should not be asked to go back” added Mr Briggs, “We want to go forward.”
The Chairman: We have a duty to perform and we are only following out our instructions. If the position can be filled by a man ineligible for the Army it should be so filled.
Mr Briggs: This man was put into his present position three years ago because he was a capable man 
The Chairman: We know for a fact that a position such as he holds can be easily filled, temporarily by a component man.
Mr Briggs: I must differ from you with respect to it being easily filled.
Mr Illingworth: I should like to ask if they have a staff of mechanics at the mill.
Mr Briggs replied in the affirmative and at the same time, he would remind them they owned about 850 houses in addition to the mills, and it would take a man years to make himself familiar with the duties that are now being carried out by Mr Baker.
Mr Burton: But you must make an effort
Mr Briggs: We have made an effort.
Mr Burton said he was urged to impress upon everybody the need for personal service to the nation.
The application was refused.

The application on behalf of Mr Joseph Greenwood, (warehouseman in the Yarn Department at Sir Titus Salt Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd.) was withdrawn.

Mr Briggs said that Mr J H N Roberts was unable to appear personally as he had to go to London.
The Chairman: Mr Roberts must be fully acquainted with the Lord Derby scheme, and also with the fact that all available men are necessary. The Tribunal wonders what reason he had for thinking that the regulations under the Derby scheme did not apply to him.
Mr Briggs said that Mr Roberts was the managing director of the company, and also the manager of the wool department and the dress goods and linings department. He was of the opinion that Mr Roberts should be classified under the reserved occupations.
Councillor Rhodes: What do you mean by saying he is the manager of the wool warehouse?
Mr Briggs: He is the manager of that department.
Councillor Learoyd: There are men who do the work under him?
Mr Briggs: Yes
Councillor Rhodes: But that department would go on without him
Mr Briggs: No – Mr Harry Roberts is the manager practically of the whole concern, in his father’s absence.
Councillor Rhodes repeated that the department could go on as well without Mr Roberts.
Mr Briggs: I think you would not say so if you knew anything about it.
Councillor Rhodes: I know a good deal about it.
Councillor Learoyd suggested that Mr Roberts could scarcely be expected to be responsible for the various departments referred to by Mr Briggs.
Mr Briggs: Do not attempt to depreciate Mr Roberts in my presence!
Councillor Learoyd: There is no question of depreciation whatever. We are trying to get to the facts of the case. We are here to do our duty, and we have to be exceedingly careful. Mr Roberts is an attested man and there are lots of people watching this case. That remark was uncalled for.
Mr Briggs: I beg your pardon if I have made a mistake.
The Chairman: You have put on your appeal form that he is in a reserved occupation.
Mr Briggs: Well I thought, being so closely in touch with the wool trade, he might be designated as such.
The Chairman: We cannot trace his position amongst the reserved occupations.
Mr Burton: If he had been described as the head of the wool sorting he might have come within the list.
Mr Briggs: If a mistake has been made in the wording, there remains the means of amending it. Undoubtedly he is the head of the wool department, the dress goods and lining department, and spinning.
Councillor Rhodes: It is utterly impossible for one man to be the head of all those departments.
The Chairman: What proportion of the managers in the employ of the firm, have joined the colours.
Mr Briggs: We have none; they are nearly all over military age.
The Chairman: The application is refused.
Mr Briggs: The clerk must take our notice to appeal against your decision. I must tell you gentleman that you are seriously interfering with the management of our business in taking the line of action you have done. You cannot make a managing director out of anybody.
Councillor Learoyd: I think these remarks should not be allowed
Mr Burton: You cannot address the Tribunal now after they have given their decision.
Mr Briggs: Very well sir.

A “cramper” at Sir Titus Salt Bart., Sons and Co., Ltd., applied to be put back for domestic reasons, stating that he was the only support of an aged aunt, the latter being in receipt of the old age pension.
Mr Burton: You are asking the Tribunal to exempt you from being called up as a soldier because your absence would cause great distress and trouble to your relative?
The Cramper: Yes
Mr Burton: If you joined the Army and paid your aunt 6d. a day, she would receive a grant from the government of 9s. – It is a question whether I could allow her 6d. per day.
The application was refused.

Tribunal – Thursday 2nd March

A meeting of the Shipley Military Tribunal was held last night (Thursday 2nd March), at Somerset House. Councillor Thomas Hill (chairman) presided, and in addition to the clerk (Mr I Lindow) were Councillors F Rhodes, C E Learoyd, T F Doyle, and Mr Ernest Illingworth.
The Clerk said that he had received the following letter, under date Feb 28th, from the firm of Sir Tuts Salt, Bart., Sons and Co., Ltd.,-

“Dear Sir, - I have to say that no further appeals will be made to your Tribunal for reservations in regard to names submitted to you on the 21st February, being the fourth lot of groups. I am instructed by senior principal to say that these works will be closed as soon as possible after Mr J H N Roberts has gone (as he is summoned to report himself at Keighley on the 8th March), as he – my senior principal – does not feel equal to carry on this undertaking alone. The strain would be unbearable.
We have been asked by the Board of Trade to do what was possible to keep up our export trade, and with this object in mind our Russia representative returned to Russia at the end of December and orders are being sent on by him regularly, which we cannot execute, and we are recalling him. The same remarks applies to our Buenos Aires representative. It is impossible for us to continue trading if our office, and particularly our shipping clerks are withdrawn. – Yours faithfully C H Briggs, Sec. Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons and Co., Ltd.

After that letter, proceeded the clerk, he received notices of appeal to go to the Central Appeal Tribunal to object to the decision of the Shipley Tribunal. The appeals were in respect of Mr J H N Roberts, Mr P Gordon Baker and Mr James Arthur Midgley. In the case of the first two, the Tribunal refused exemption, whilst in regard to the other he was granted exemption until May 1st. He had that day, in respect of those appeals, received the following letter from Sir James Roberts, Bart. :-

Milner Field, Bingley March 2nd, 1916
Dear Mr Lindow, - I was asked this morning if I had any objection to the letter written by Mr Briggs on the 28th ult. going into the newspapers. Not having seen the letter since it was written, I had not a clear idea of its contents, and I sent word to the mill asking for a copy, which I have before me.
Since that was written a notice of appeal has been given, and should the decision of your Tribunal be upheld, the letter will again apply. It must not be thought that the decision to close down has been lightly come to. It has taken too many years of laborious effort to build up a business like ours for that to be the case.
There is no unwillingness on my son’s part to serve. Early on in the war he pressed me hard to consent to his enlistment. I pointed out to him that that was impossible, that if I could not have my frequent holidays in Scotland I could not do my work, and if he were not at Saltaire the business would have to shut down.
I was warned two years ago by Dr Brein Russell that I must take my holidays if I wished to continue long in business, and at the same time he told me that humanly speaking I could with care expect a long life. I said I was anxious to live, to bridge over the interval until my two grandsons could take a hand in my business. If this prospect was removed, one of the main incentives would be gone.
You must not take this appeal that it is to be made as being made by my son. It is being made for my benefit, for the benefit of Saltaire, and of the country. My son says that two members of your Tribunal are West Ward, and therefore Saltaire representatives on the District Council and he assumes that in voting against exemption in his case, they consider that they are acting in accordance with desires of the Saltaire people. I think we have shown no disinclination to do our bit.
At the beginning of the war when we were on short time, we intimated that the rent collector would not be paying any calls, and no arrears of rent would accrue. We promised that in cases where heads of families were in service, the income of the family would be maintained. Since October 1914, my place in Scotland has been given over to the reception of wounded soldiers at my own entire cost.
Mr Briggs’ letter of the 28th ult. looks rather bald. I am informed that its contents were widely known within an hour or two after it was written. You may cause that letter to be published if you think any useful object is to be attained, but if you do, let the contents of this letter be published along with it in their entirety.
I learned of the decision of your Tribunal with much surprise, as Mr Burton had told me that the Advisory Committee (including himself) were unanimous that my son’s was a case for exemption.
I ought to have been present at the Guildhall meeting yesterday, but instead I was forced home by ominous premonitions of pneumonia. I have read the speeches made there, through the whole of which the importance is insisted upon, not only of providing the men, but of keeping up our industries.
The necessity of closing down at Saltaire I contemplate with horror, the loss would be enormous, to me and others, and I need hardly say that physical limitations are the only ones that could cause this step to be taken. What I wish to do is to clear myself of responsibility for taking such a step.
Yours very truly, JAMES ROBERTS
P.S. – I am rather tired with writing this letter – too tired to take a copy of it. May I ask you to be good enough to let me have a typed copy.

The Clerk added that copies of the first letter had been sent to the London Authorities, but no reply had yet been received.
Councillor Learoyd observed that the receipt of the letters did not affect that Tribunal at all. They had made their decision according to the evidence placed before them and to the best of their judgement, and the matter was finished so far as they were concerned.
Councillor Rhodes said that if there was an appeal to the Central Tribunal it would be necessary for the Tribunal to state on the application form the reasons for their refusal of the application at Shipley.
The Clerk: These appeals are here, and this Tribunal before separating tonight will have to decide upon the reasons for the decision before the reasons for the decision before these forms can be sent to London.
The Chairman: I take it that after all the talk there has been, these two letters should be published.
Councillor Learoyd: I take it they will be published.
Councillor Rhodes: There is no objection.
Councillor Rhodes: The letters have nothing to do with our work, and when that is done our responsibility finishes.
Councillor Rhodes: We have no power to reconsider anything now.
Councillor Learoyd: We have no power nor any desire.
Councillor Rhodes: Even if we had, we have no power.
Councillor Learoyd: There was no dissentient voice. The Tribunal was absolutely unanimous in arriving at the decision.
The Chairman: I quite agree with what Councillor Learoyd says. We have done our work to the best of our ability, and we cannot undo it now. The letters have now been read, and I propose that they be handed to the Press.
Councillor Rhodes: I second that with pleasure.
The Chairman: That they be given to the Press to do what they like with them.
Councillor Rhodes: I think they ought to be handed over. It makes no difference to us what the Press do with them.

Shipley Times Editorial – Don’t Bully the Tribunal

Those who were present at the first open meeting of the Shipley Recruiting Tribunal, on Friday evening, must have been struck with the thought that there is a right and a wrong way of stating a case.
These tribunals are constituted by Parliament for dealing with claims for exemption and by those who go before them they should be regarded in the same light as are a judge and jury in a Court of Assize, and should be treated accordingly. It should also be borne in mind that attempts to brow beat or bully a court of this kind generally recoil on the heads of those who resort to such methods. People who honestly feel they are entitled to exemption on personal or business grounds, or because they are engaged on work of national importance, should confine themselves to evidence in support of their claims, and not make comment which is calculated to discredit the bona-fides of the Tribunal.

At the next sitting the Tribunal will have a large number of claims for exemption, including several men who have conscientious objections to fighting the enemy. These are the first cases of the kind, which the Tribunal have had to deal with, and it will be interesting for the public to know what attitude the Tribunal take on this exceedingly difficult question. All other cases are considered by the military representative before being sent to the Tribunal, but these are dealt with by the Tribunal itself, and decided upon evidence which the appellants can adduce that their objections are genuine, and not adopted merely for the purpose of securing relief from military service.

(NB Colin Coates: In a report in the Yorkshire Post, dated Mar 1916, it stated that Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons and Co., Ltd., paid £10, 000 annually in rates to the local council. This would be worth c£800,000 in 2016).

Shipley Soldiers Comforts Fund

The concert which was held at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire on Wednesday evening in aid of the Shipley Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Comforts’ Fund was, from a musical point of view a great success, but the audience was by no means commensurate with the high quality of music provided.
The promoters had been fortunate in securing the gratuitous services of an accomplished band of artists, and it is to be regretted that the goodwill of the performers was not more amply rewarded by a larger attendance.

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Organist wanted for Windhill Spiritual Church and School; state terms –
Apply to Mr Kitchen, 7 Mary Street, Saltaire.

Death

Parkinson – On the second inst. At 3 Albert Road, Saltaire, Ernest Parkinson, the youngest son of Frank Buxton Parkinson and Sabina Parkinson, in his 18th year. Internment at Nab Wood Cemetery, March 4th at 2 o’clock.
(Authors note - 3 Albert Road is now re-numbered as No 5).

Saltaire War Diary: 10 March 1916

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Appointment of Officers

The annual meeting of the Shipley West, South and Central Wards, Polling District Unionist Association was held last week. The reports for the year were adopted, and the following officials were appointed for the West Ward:-
Chairman – Mr J A Burton
Hon. Treasurer – Mr T H Cockshott
Hon. Secretary – Mr W H Bland
Hon. Auditor – Mr E C Fry
Delegate to the Shipley Division Unionist Association – Mr J A Burton
Delegates to the Shipley Unionist Association – Messrs. G H Eady and F B Parkinson
Delegates to the General Council – J E Kaye and J E Wilson.

(Colin Coates: Saltaire was in the West Ward.)

Prudential Agent’s “Annual”

The eighth annual tea and social, promoted by the Shipley Branch of the National Association of Prudential Agents was held last Thursday, when a company of about thirty agents, and their wives, took tea together at Messrs. Hardcastle and Frankland’s café in Saltaire.

(Author’s note – Misses Hardcastle and Frankland ran a confectionery business at 20 Bingley Road from c1903 to c1923. Since 2006 the building has been Lloyds Pharmacy.)

Popular Preacher

The Saltaire Wesleyans have again been fortunate in securing the services of perhaps the most popular preacher of their denomination – the Rev. Mark Guy Pearce of London. He preaches morning and evening next Sunday in the Saltaire Wesleyan Church, and gives his popular lecture on, “A bit of bread” on the Monday evening.

Fishing Contest

Owing to the exceptionally rough weather prevailing on Saturday, February 26th, the Saltaire Angling Association were unable to carry through their fishing contest. This match will now be held on Saturday, March 11th, at the advertised time and place.

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Confectionery – Wanted Female Baker – Apply GH Wood, 57 Bingley Road, Saltaire

Letter to the Editor
(Published in the Yorkshire Post – Wednesday 8 March 1916)

Re Saltaire Mills
To the Editor of the Yorkshire Post
Sir, - Like many others who know Saltaire, I have been greatly interested in the correspondence you recently published regarding the future of the above mills. If they were closed this would be a calamity not only to Saltaire, but also to the nation, and every step should be taken to prevent it. May I therefore put forward the following suggestions:-

1. That Sir James Roberts should see convincing evidence is produced to the Central Tribunal that his son Mr J H N Roberts is the acting responsible manager of the mills, and that, if Sir James is well, he and his son should appear in person in support.
2. If the appeal is unsuccessful, that the whole of the workplace and inhabitants of Saltaire and district, the Shipley District Council, and the Bradford Chamber of Commerce, should present a petition to Sir James Roberts asking him to make strenuous efforts to carry on. Sir James is not only a captain of industry, but also a born organiser.

Certainly a large factory with resources almost unequalled in the North for dealing with materials in their rawest state on the railway and canal sides, and turning it out again, dyed, finished, and packed ready for home, Colonial, or foreign trade, should not be closed down in these days, - Yours, etc.
H Barker – Ripon, March 7, 1916.

Saltaire War Diary: 17 March 1916

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Military Tribunal

A meeting of the Shipley Recruiting Tribunal was held on Friday evening at Somerset House, Councillor Thos. Hill (chairman) presided, and others present were Councillors F Rhodes, C E Learoyd, T F Doyle, and Mr Ernest Illingworth, together with Mr J A Burton, the military representative.
There were thirty-one cases for consideration, the bulk of which were unmarried men. The appeals were refused entirely in six cases, seven were postponed, four claims to be in certified occupations were allowed, three applications were put back to May 1, two to June 1, four to July 1 and five to August 1.

(Colin Coates: There were no cases from Saltaire in the report, although not all thirty-cases were reported on.)

Theft from Salt Schools

John Pickles, a Guiseley soldier, and a fifteen year old Windhill boy were charged at the West Riding Police Court, Bradford, on Monday with stealing two overcoats from the Salts Schools. Pickles was further charged with being absent from his regiment, the 11th West Riding.
It was stated that the coats belonged to two boys who attended the Salts School, and were stolen on Thursday afternoon last. One was valued at 35s, and was subsequently sold to a business man named Philip Cooper, who carries on business under the name of Winestone, in Saltaire Road, Shipley. And who stated that he gave 2s 6d for it. The other coat was found in the possession of the boy, who was wearing it. Two days prior to the theft the boy had sold his own overcoat to the man Cooper.
On being charged the boy said, “A soldier stole them, and he gave me this one.”
Both pleaded guilty, and it was stated that the boy had not previously given any trouble. He had, however, expressed a desire to join the Navy.
In reply to the Chairman, the boy said he met the soldier at Shipley. Pickles suggested that they should take the coats.
The Chairman asked the boy if he was prepared to stick to his work and behave himself in the future, but the lad replied that he did not want to go back to that class of work.
The father said that the lad wanted to join the Navy, and he was prepared to let him do so if the Bench set him at liberty.
The boy was bound over for twelve months and placed under the supervision of the Probation Officer.
It transpired that Pickles had been in the Army nineteen months. He had been sent as a member of an escort for another absentee, and instead of turning up absented himself.
He was committed to goal for one month for the theft of the coats, and at the expiration of the sentence was ordered to be handed over to the military authorities on the charge of being an absentee.
Cooper was reprimanded by the Chairman for giving such a small price an article which he must he must have known was worth much more. He must have known that the coat was worth 35s. On hearing this Cooper laughed, whereupon the Chairman of the bench observed: “You need not laugh; you might be found yourself in a difficult position. I hope you will take this as a warning.”

Fishing Match in the Aire

The Saltaire Angling Association held a fishing match on Saturday, under rather rough weather conditions, at the Baildon Bridge length of the Aire. The following were the prize winners:-

1. J H Roberts, Bradford (13 ½ oz.) Silver medal heaviest fish
2. J Bowe, Bradford (3 oz.)
3. T Hartley, Shipley (2 ¾ oz.)
4. H Thornton, Shipley (1 oz.)

The prizes were on the sweepstake system.

Billiards – Shipley and District League

Saltaire Institute, receiving 200 points, beat Idle Liberals, who received 125 points, 1230 to 1207 in the semi-final, played this week. Details as follows (Saltaire player first):-

F White 107 v A Stansfield 150
E Armitage 138 v A Simpson 150
F Stringer 150 v W Keighley 139
N Sanctuary 150 v H Russell 87
R Illingworth 150 v J Cordingley 123
H Jolley 102 v F Ryecroft 150
R Power 143 v J Briggs 150
A Thompson 90 v E Raistrick 133

Marriage

11 March 1916 at St Peter Shipley
Arthur Roberts, 45, Widower, wool comber, Bingley married Hannah Stephenson (nee Illngworth), 51, widow, 32 Helen Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 24 March 1916

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Batch of Objectors at Shipley

A meeting of the Shipley Military Tribunal was held on Wednesday evening at the Council Office. Councillor Thomas Hill presided and other members present were Councillors C E Learoyd, F Rhodes, T F Doyle and Mr Ernest Illingworth and Mr J A Burton (representing the Military Authorities).
There were 52 cases to be dealt with and of these 22 were conscientious objectors. A large number of the public attended and the accommodation of the room in which the Tribunal was held was taxed to its utmost.
(Of the reported cases one was from Saltaire).
Fred Rennard, an overlooker at Saltaire Mills said he knew he could have got exemption by claiming to be in a reserved occupation, but his conscience would not allow him to appeal on that ground. He did not believe all that he read about the atrocities in Belgium.
Mr Burton: Would you like to leave the wife whom you recently married to the tender mercies of the Germans?
Rennard: I am claiming to stop here to look after her.
Mr Burton: By asking her to cook your breakfast and dinner?
Rennard: Well I need looking after.
Mr Burton: I cannot congratulate your wife!
The application was refused.     

Military Tribunal – Editorial from the Shipley Times

A large batch of “conscientious objectors” appeared before the Shipley Tribunal on Wednesday evening, and they brought a good many sympathisers with them. It was evident to the careful listener that most of them had been trained for the occasion, but even with their statements cut and dried they by no means made a creditable show.
One man objected to everything and really did not know what he wanted. Even when the Tribunal granted what he asked for, he observed, “I shall appeal against your decision.”
With one or two exceptions, these men of conscience had the same tale to tell, and their attitude was well summed up by the Military Representative, who said they were prepared to remain in England enjoying all the comforts and privileges they could get, while others were making great sacrifices to maintain those priceless possessions.
One man who, singularly enough is in the Army Pay, actually declared that “there is no work in England to-day that is not either directly or indirectly connected with the war.” Still this same person objected to being connected with the military machine. The truth is that he is ready to render service to the nation provided that he remains in perfect safety in England, has a good bed, regular meals and receives good wages. What a sensitive conscience and what a patriotic spirit!
After sitting through the whole business we could not help thinking that had been much “conscientious humbug.” Men who are determined to escape military service can soon discover that they have extraordinarily sensitive consciences. Those who have a desire to preserve their own skins and spend their lives in comfort and ease, need to be constantly remind that others are pouring out their life’s blood for their country, which is not without its conscientious cowards.
We have heard some of these latter profess to be so gentle that they “couldn’t kill a fly.” Poor things! The wonder is they ever grew up. Wives whose husbands have fought for their country in this supreme crisis in our history, and fathers and mothers whose sons are nobly ding their duty in the battle line, will read the paltry excuses of many “conscientious objectors” with feelings of indignation and disgust.

Saltaire Institute Society

An effort is to be made to revive the reputation which the Saltaire Institute (part of the Salt Schools Trust) formerly enjoyed for high-class educational and re-creative facilities. To that end a Saltaire Institute Society has been formed, with Sir Ellis Denby as president, and it is gratifying to know that the movement has won the cordial approval and support of the Salt family and of a number of prominent residents, including several who took an active interest in the work of this character carried on at the institute several years ago.
Lady Denby is forming a ladies committee to assist in the realisation of the objects of the society.
For obvious reasons the committee (which includes the local clergy and ministers, the chairman of the Shipley District Council and Education Committee) are not attempting anything in the nature of an extensive programme for the remainder of the present season. They have, however, made arrangements for two lectures, the net proceeds of which will be handed over to the Shipley Branch of Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild.
Mr Filson Young, the war correspondent and novelist, will give the first lecture on the “Navy in the Present War.”
The second lecture is arranged for Wednesday April 12th and will be given by the well-  known writer and “Spy,” Mr William Queux, the subject of the lecture being, “The German Spy.”
The Institute Society has secured the services of two capable officials in Mr J Douglas Smith (who has been prominently connected with amateur operatic work in Bradford) as secretary and Mr E Clifford Fry as treasurer.

(Colin Coates: Mr Filson Young published the first book about the sinking of the RMS Titanic, called Titanic, published in 1912 only 37 days after the sinking.)

Marriage

St Peters – 18 March 1916
Albert Jones, aged 23, mechanic, of 13 Ada Street Saltaire married Maggie Cash, aged 21, of 31 Whitlam Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 31 March 1916

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Sir James Roberts and His Son
(Report in the Yorkshire Evening Post – Wednesday 29 March) 

A good deal of interest centres in the appeal of Mr J H N Roberts which came before the Appeal Tribunal of the West Central District of the West Riding of Yorkshire at Bradford this afternoon.
Mr Roberts, who is the son of Sir James Roberts, is managing director of the firm of Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons and Co. (Ltd.), of Saltaire Mills, which employ some 2,500 people and pay something like £10,000 per annum in rates to the Shipley District Council. Over a month ago a claim was laid before the Shipley Military Tribunal, which refused the application.
Mr C H Briggs, who made the application at the Shipley Tribunal a month ago, said that Mr Roberts, in addition to being managing director, was also manager of the wool department and of the dress goods and linings department.
Sir James Roberts in a letter to the Tribunal said: “There is no unwillingness on my son’s part to serve. Early on in the war he pressed me hard to consent to his enlistment. I pointed out to him that that was impossible, that is I could not have my frequent holidays in Scotland I could not do my work, and if he were not at Saltaire the business would have to shut down. You must not take this appeal that is to be made as being made by my son. It is being made for my benefit, for the benefit of Saltaire and of the country.
I think we have shown no disinclination to do our bit. At the beginning of the war, when we went on short time, we intimated that the rent collector would not be paying any calls, and no arrears of rent would accrue. We promised that in cases where heads of families were in service, the income of the family would be maintained. Since October 1914, my place in Scotland has been given over to the reception of wounded soldiers at my own entire cost.”

Sir James Roberts in making the appeal to-day, said that having regard to the publicity which had been given the given to the case, and to certain allegations which had been made against himself, he should be glad to make a short statement.
At the present time, when most people were doing everything possible, and were given their best in order to win this war, he had felt the allegations rather severely to the effect that he had threatened to close the Saltaire works if his son was not relieved from military service. He need hardly say that unless he thought his son indispensable to the Saltaire business his son would have enlisted a year ago.
Sir James said he observed to his son at the time that he would not deserve the name of Englishman if he was not anxious to go to into the Army at that time. But without his son’s assistance it would be impossible for him to carry on the business at Saltaire. During the previous two tears he had found it necessary, in order to keep himself fit, and in condition, to spend something like one third of that time in Scotland.
Sir James said the he had difficulty in persuading his son that it was his duty to give up the idea of enlisting, which he did with considerable reluctance. When the group system was adopted, his son said he supposed there would be no objection to his attesting, and Sir James agreed; and his son attested within a few days of the adoption of the system.
When the application for exemption came before the Advisory Committee, which was composed of gentlemen all over the Shipley Parliamentary Division, Sir James saw the military representative within a few days after the meeting, at which the application was considered, and he was informed there was no demur on the part of any of the members of the Committee that his son was indispensable to the business. These representations he supposed would be made to the Shipley Tribunal, and Sir James considered the matter so far as any suspense or anxiety as to what would happen to his son was at an end, because under Rule 17 –
The military representative at this point interrupted, and asked Sir James to confine himself to the facts of the case.
Sir James, proceeding, said he was asked, after the application had been refused by the Shipley Tribunal, what was to be done in the case of additional applications for exemptions that would shortly come before the Tribunal, and he told Mr Briggs that, having regard to the fact that his son was called up on the 8th of March, they might be withdrawn. He told Mr Briggs that he could not carry on the business without his son, and that he could repeat that if he thought proper to the Shipley Tribunal.

At this point, the military representative suggested that he should examine Mr Roberts, who stated that in the original notice the claim was that he was in a reserved occupation, but the appeal notice was on different lines.
Mr Roberts said he was 29 years of age, and had been in his father’s business for 12 years, holding a responsible position for eight years. He was an active managing director.
The Military Representative: Do you consider in the national interests that it is necessary for you to remain with your father?
Mr Roberts: Yes
The Military Representative: Would it be possible to carry on your father’s business, if you were not there?
Mr Roberts: I don’t think so. It usually depends on my father’s health.
The Military Representative: Is your father not in good health?
Mr Roberts: Not particularly.
The Military Representative: Does your father regularly attend the business?
Mr Roberts: He is at the mill about two-thirds of the year.
The Military Representative: Do you regularly attend the Saltaire mills?
Mr Roberts: Yes
The Military Representative: What holidays are you in the habit of taking?
Mr Roberts: A fortnight in September and probably another seven or eight days.
The Military Representative: To come down to the bed rock, are you indispensable in the business or are you not? Are you the controlling mind when your father is not at the works?
Mr Roberts: Yes
The Military Representative: But your father is only away for about three months in the year?
Mr Roberts: Four
The Military Representative: Would it not be possible for your father at a time like this not to go away for so long?
Mr Roberts: I don’t think so.

Another member questioned Mr Roberts, who said there were two directors of the firm, his father and himself. He agreed that was less than the usual number in a large firm.
Another member: You say that no efficient substitute could be obtained to take your place?
Mr Roberts: Yes
Another member: Why do you say that?
Mr Roberts: It would take considerable training.
Another member: But there are people in the mill who know the work besides you?
Mr Roberts: No, not the work, the general supervision.
Another member: They could easily learn it?
Mr Roberts: I don’t think so.
Another member: Is there any serious hardship to yourself or the firm if you left?
Mr Roberts: I would not suffer myself, but the business would lack control.

The Tribunal retired to consider a batch of cases, including Mr Roberts’s, and on returning to court they intimated that no statement was to be made as to the result of appeals in individual cases.
(Author’s note – The tribunal was presided over by Mr Duncan Law and the Military Representative was Second Lieutenant E M Molesworth.)

Appeal Refused
(Report in the Yorkshire Post – Thursday 30 March)

Though the decision was not officially announced separately, our Bradford correspondent understands that the tribunal refused Mr Roberts’ appeal. As no application was made for leave to make further appeal in case of an adverse decision, it is assumed that further application will have to be made if another appeal is to be made.

Comforts for the “Pals”

It is well known that many local men are serving with the “Pals” at the front, and since leaving Egypt where they were originally drafted to, and taking up their quarters in France, many letters have been received complaining of the intense cold.
This week the Ladies’ Committee that is connected with the Saltaire Institute, have forwarded to Capt. Watling, 16th West Yorks. Regt., a number of parcels containing scarves and mittens to be distributed among the Shipley lads.
This is the first opportunity the Ladies’ Committee have had of doing anything for the “Pals” since they went on active service, and the fact that they are remembered by the good people at home will be appreciated. The secretary of the committee is Mrs J L Foy.

Patriotic Children

A children’s concert held on Saturday afternoon at the house of Mrs Guerin, Victoria Road, Saltaire, in aid of the supply of postage stamps for the wounded soldiers at the Bradford War Hospital has realised £1 10s.
The youthful artistes – not one of whom exceeded the age of ten – had worked enthusiastically for a few weeks, rehearsing and selling tickets – printed by Master Jack Rooum – at one penny each for their concert.
The names of the children were Misses Ethel Burgess (10), Maud Guerin (10), Clara Saynor (10), Carla Rhodes (9), Edna Pearson (9), Alice Bould (5) and Master Jack Rooum (7).

(Author’s note - Maud Geurin (1906 – 1975) lived at 73 Victoria Road with her parents, Lewis & Jane Elizabeth. Maud married Harold Lockwood 25 July 1927 at St Pauls Shipley.)

Salts High School

Dealing with the finances of the Salt High Schools, the chairman said that a year ago the boys’ school showed a balance to the good of £264, whilst the girls’ school was overspent to the extent of £1,634.
The figures were now £308 to the good on the boys’ school and £1, 817 owing by the girls’ school, leaving a net deficit of £1,509. A year hence it was estimated that this adverse balance would have been increased to £1,710.
Councillor T Hill: What a pleasant outlook!
In the discussion which ensued the financial position of the Salt High Schools was attributed to some extent to the reduction of the fees a few years ago. The suggestion was made that the Shipley District Council should be asked to pay fees in respect of Salt scholarship holders.
Miss Unwin said that the difference in the financial position of the two schools was partly accounted for by the fact the boys’ school go a larger proportion of scholarship pupils whose fees were paid by the county authorities.

Small Ad

Wanted – Female Assistant for Bakery; to sleep out. – Apply Miss Charlesworth, 2 Victoria Road, Saltaire.

Silver Wedding

Craven – Wilson – On the 25th March 1891, at Saltaire Congregational Church, by the Rev J A Hamilton, Percy Lot, son of Lot Craven, Rock Bank, Bradford, to Lucy Ann Wilson, niece of the late Benjamin Ingham (dyer), Birk Lane Shipley – Bolton View, Bradford.

Thanks

Smith – Mrs Smith and family thank all relations and friends for the kindness and sympathy shown to them in their sad bereavement – 72 George Street, Saltaire.

Marriage

St Peters, Shipley – 25 March 1916
Harry Atkinson, 22, a riveter, married Emma Beanland, 20.
They both lived at 15 Caroline Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 7 April 1916

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Mr Harry Roberts Enlists

Though allowed three days in which appeal against the decision of the District Tribunal on Wednesday of last week, Mr J H N Roberts, managing director of Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Co., Ltd., Saltaire Mills, presented himself for service at the recruiting headquarters at Keighley on the following day, and was granted fourteen days leave of absence in order to arrange his affairs.
Mr Roberts is the only surviving son of Sir James. He has taken an active part of the business, and he and his father are the only managing directors of the concern. Sir James has made it clear that it was from no desire on the part of his son that an appeal for exemption has been made. In fact Mr Roberts expressed a desire to enlist more than a year ago, and when the Derby scheme was inaugurated he was one of the first in Saltaire to attest.
Mr Roberts takes an unusual interest in the Shipley Veterans Association, of which he is president, and he is very popular amongst those with whom he comes in contact with.

Queen Mary’s Guild

The Shipley Branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild is to be addressed on Tuesday next, at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire, by Lady Catherine Milnes Gaskell, who is acting as president for the West Riding in connection with the guild.
At the request of Lady Milnes Gaskell, the organisation of the work in Shipley was undertaken by Lady Denby, and there are now no fewer than 600 members of the branch participating in the work of making the special garments required in military hospitals. About 3,125 garments have already been sent to the authorities in York, whence they are distributed to various hospitals.
On the occasion of Lady Milnes Gaskell’s visit Lady Denby is entertaining the members of the local branch to afternoon tea.

Drowning Tragedy at Saltaire

The body of a woman was recovered from the River Aire, near Hirst Mill, Saltaire on Wednesday, and it has been identified as that of Mrs Elizabeth Nicholson, wife of Mr Oliver Nicholson, civil engineer, 12 Oakfield Grove, Oak Lane, Bradford. She was sixty-three years of age, and had recently suffered from influenza.

(Colin Coates: Elizabeth Roberts was born c1853 in Lincolnshire. She married Oliver Nicholson 1 February 1875 at Bradford Cathedral. They had six children, but Elizabeth outlived all but one of them.) 

Marriage

St Peters Shipley 6th April 1916
Ernest Longbottom, a soldier aged 23 from Girlington, married Mabel Elsie Giles, aged 27, of 48 Victoria Road Saltaire.
(Mabel had two brothers, William Giles and Frank Giles who both served in WW1.)

Saltaire War Diary: 14 April 1916

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Suicide

Mr E W Norris (Deputy District Coroner) and a jury of which the foreman was Mr Richard Dewhirst, held an inquest yesterday (Thursday) at the Shipley Fire Station, on the body of a butcher named Thomas Butler, of 12 Helen Street, Saltaire, who was found with his throat cut on Tuesday afternoon at the Shipley Slaughterhouse.
The first witness called was Jane Elizabeth Butler, wife of the deceased who said her husband was a journeyman butcher and slaughter man, and was 28 years of age. She saw him for the last time alive at about half past ten on Tuesday morning.
In answer to questions by the Deputy Coroner, witness said her husband had constantly suffered from colds, but had not been medically attended of late. He had no worry or trouble that she was aware of. About a fortnight ago he complained about pains at the back of his head. He happened an accident some 14 years ago when a 100 pounds fell on his head.
“Had your husband attested under the Derby Scheme? – No”
John Lambert, tripe dresser of 2 Mount Street Shipley, said he last saw the deceased at the Shipley Slaughterhouse at about quarter to two on Tuesday. At the time witness was in the waiting room, and deceased went past on his way to the lavatory. Not long afterwards witness heard a scream as of someone groaning, and on the door being burst open by him and the manager of the slaughterhouse deceased was found lying in a pool of blood.
Joseph Charles Parker, a butcher of 22 Dockfields Road Shipley, admitted having burst the door of the lavatory open. The deceased’s throat was clean cut through to the bone. The last time he saw Butler alive he was unusually quiet.
Sam Hill, butcher, said the deceased had been in his employment about 12 years. He cried out several times about pains in his head.
The jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased had cut his throat whilst of unsound mind.
(Author’s note – Thomas Butler was born c1888 in Hampshire. In 1911 he was living at 12 Helen St. with his wife Jane, daughter Lilian aged 2 and son Edward aged 1.)

Dogger Bank Battle

Mr Filson Young, the famous writer, who as Lieutenant in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, was on board H.M.S. Lion during the battle on the Dogger Bank, gave a lecture at the Saltaire Institute on Wednesday night, on “With the Battle Cruisers in the North Sea”.
The chair was occupied by Sir Ellis Denby, president of the newly formed Saltaire Institute under whose auspices the lecture was given. There was a large audience, and the lecturer was followed with rapt attention from start to finish.

Cricket

The Saltaire Cricket Club is this season looking forward to a successful season, although the outlook doesn’t look so promising. Practically the same team as last year with the exception of the clever batsman Syd Smith, who has already enlisted in the R.A.M.C., will be available. He joined at the back end of last season.
The club will again have the services of the world’s greatest bowler, S F Barnes, and in addition A Welburn, the clever batsman who played last season with Great Horton and H I Pratt, the well-known Bradford League Cricketer, who needs no introduction.
All the committee and players have attested, and the majority of the second eleven players and members have done likewise. One of the members, namely Arthur Driver, has already won the D.C.M.
We understand that the club is going to strongly support youthful talent this season, and there will be a good chance to discover some promising young talent.
None of the veterans seem inclined to launch out, but the club is hoping to persuade them to do so should necessity arise. One of the staunchest veterans of the club, namely the late Mr W Beaver has passed away during the year.
(Colin Coates notes: Arthur Driver born 13 December 1894 died 1973. In 1911 he was a bank clerk living at 18 Victoria Avenue in Shipley.

Marriage

St Peters – 8 April 1916 –
Fred Ogden, aged 21 of 26 Rhodes Street, Saltaire married May Doris Bacon, aged 18, of 31 Constance Street, Saltaire.

Death

Abbott – Ridley, the dearly loved child of Whitely and Harriet Zilla Abbot, who died April 9th, 1916, aged 7 years, 53 George Street, Saltaire. Thanking friends for their kind sympathy and floral tributes.

Burial

12 April 1916 –Hirst Wood - Bernard Gaunt Stenson, aged 8 months, of 26 Shirley Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 21 April 1916

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Saltaire Institute Society

The seal of public approval has been set upon the newly-formed Saltaire Institute Society, which bids well to attain its object of reviving the reputation which the Institute formerly enjoyed for high-class lectures. Shortly arrangements for the next season are to be discussed.
When times are happier than they are at present the Society hopes to make the magnificent institution given to the district by Sir Titus Salt a really “live” centre for intellectual and social enjoyment.
The Society has been fortunate in securing as secretary, Mr Douglas Smith, some idea of whom enthusiasm may be gathered from the fact that he personally sold £30 worth of tickets for the two lectures given recently.

Anniversary Service

At the Saltaire Congregational Church on Sunday, special anniversary services were held, the preacher in the morning was the Rev F Wrigley, B.A., and in the evening the preacher was Professor E J Price (United College, Bradford).
Special anthems were rendered by the choir. The morning anthem was, “Oh Worship the Lord” (Alfred Hollins), and in the evening the anthem was “Blessed be the God and Father” (Dr Wesley). The soloists were Misses Lilian Brown and Elsie Hill. The organist was Mr W Sutcliffe (chapel organist). Collections on behalf of the church Funds realised £6 18s 8d.

Billiard League Finance

The annual balance sheet of the Shipley and District Billiard League, just shows a balance on the right side of 16s 1½d. Club collections at matches have been contributed as follows:-
Shipley Working Men’s Club, £1 10s 3½d
Shipley Liberal Club, £1 9s
Windhill Liberal Club, £1 3s 6d
Saltaire Institute Club, 13s 1d
West Ward Liberal Club, 13s 6d
Friendly Hall, 11s 5½d
Windhill Conservative Club 1s 6d.
Total £6 7s 4d.
In subscriptions, £4 4s has been paid, and 7s 6d was the proceeds of the play-off game with West Ward Liberal Club. In the semi-final, 13s 8½d was realised at the Working Men’s Club, and 8s at the Windhill Liberal Club, whilst in the final played at the Shipley Liberal Club, 17s was collected. The “Rest” match at the Saltaire Institute brought in 10s.
This year’s grant to the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital amounted to £8 8s.

Well-known Anglers Death

We deeply regret to record the death of Mr William Henry Pickles, who for a long period had been a most enthusiastic angler. Not only in local contests but also over a much wider area he was a well-known competitor.
He had been associated with the Saltaire Angling Association since its inception in 1867; and in addition to serving on the committee was secretary for a period of eighteen years. Some time ago the members recognised his services by making him a suitable presentations. Mr Pickles was in his 70th year.

Cricket Season Opens

Saltaire won their opening game in the Bradford Cricket League on Saturday 15th April. In a low scoring game Saltaire scored 128. In reply Queensbury only scored 38 with Sydney Barnes taking seven wickets.

In Memoriam

Thornton – In loving memory of Arthur Thornton, who passed away on April 18th 1915, in his 61st year; also of his daughter, Beatrice Alice Burnett (nee Thornton), who died March 30th 1915, in her 26th year.
Deeply Lamented
From mother, sons and daughters, 68 Victoria Road, Saltaire.
(Colin Coates: Arthur Thornton had four sons who served in the war – Albert, Arthur, Edwin and Robert.)

Thanks

Mrs Butler, widow of the late Thomas Butler, 12 Helen Street, Saltaire, desires to return thanks for kind expression of sympathy and floral tokens in her sad bereavement.

Saltaire War Diary: 28 April 1916

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Libraries Committee

The Library report for the month of March, showed the number of borrowers’ cards in force as 2,813, and the issue of books as – Saltaire, 5023; Windhill, 2,470.
The application of the Shipley Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Comforts Fund for permission to use the rooms at the Institute and the Carnegie Hall, in connection with their monthly street collections, was agreed to.
It was recommended that Messrs. Cowgill, Hill, and Hirst be a sub-committee to make an inspection of the Saltaire Institute and the Victoria Hall, and report as to the work required in the painting, cleaning, and decorating both inside and outside these premises.
Councillor Cowgill, in moving the adoption of the minutes of the Libraries Committee said they had asked the council to approve the appointment of a sub-committee to go into the question of getting out some estimates as to the repairing and decorating of the interior and exterior of the Saltaire Institute.
He did not think that any member of the Council or very few people outside who knew anything about the Institute would deny the necessity for a thorough renovation. They would all agree, of course, that it might be questionable to whether the present was the proper time to put the scheme into operation.
At any rate he hoped the Council would sanction the appointment of that sub-committee. It would simply make investigations, and report later on as to what they thought was the probable cost of going through the whole Institute with the possible exception of the Victoria Hall. Not only the inside but the outside needed attention.
It had been pointed out to the Libraries Committee more than once that the stonework required attending to. It was weathering considerably, and he might add that special attention had also been drawn to the condition of the stone lions in front of the Institute. They were weathering badly in certain places. It was advisable that some work of a protective character should be done, particularly to that ornamental part of the building.
The minutes were adopted.

Saltaire Angling Association

From Mr Pickles, the secretary of the Saltaire Angling Association, we learn that the River Aire is now in splendid condition for angling. During the last week-end a few nice trout were taken from the Cottingley Bridge length. One angler had a nice basket of six fish averaging over eight ounces. The annual match on Shipley Feast Monday will this year take place at Ulleskelf.

Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital

The annual meeting of the Board of Governors of Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital was held on Wednesday night.
Mr B Allsop was unanimously re-elected chairman, on the motion of Mr E L Baumann, seconded by Councillor C E Learoyd, both members speaking in terms of high praise of the services rendered to the Board by Mr. Allsop.
In taking the chair, Mr Allsop said that the number of in-patients and out-patients during the past year constituted a record for the institution. Owing to the increased price of commodities the expenditure on upkeep had gone up considerably, but fortunately they had an increased income from subscriptions and donations, which in present circumstances was very gratifying.
Mrs F F Rhodes, a new member of the Board, was thanked for having obtained promises of annual subscriptions to £ 9 8s. Mrs Titus Salt said a donation of eight guineas from the Shipley District Billiard League was very creditable to that body. Mr W Cryer explained that the donation was the result of collections made at the league matches. Reference was made also to a “thank offering of £10.

Death of Octogenarian

One of the oldest residents of Saltaire was interred at the Parish Church burial ground on Saturday, in the person of Mrs Allen. The deceased, who was in her eighty-fifth year, was in her earlier days a prominent worker at St. Peter’s Church, and one of the pioneers at that church.
She was a native of Saltaire and until recently her home was in Titus Street. Her son, Mr Harry Allen, is well-known in the district, at one time being a book keeper in the employ of the Windhill Co-Operative Society. He is at present secretary to Messrs. Sheldon in Leeds.
(In 1911 Mrs Allen was living at 3 Titus Street in Saltaire.)

In Memoriam

Shackleton - In loving memory of my dear son, Sam, who lost his life on the troopship, Monitor, April 16th 1915

             We often sit and think of him
            And often call his name
            But the only answer that we get
            Is his picture in a frame.

40 Helen Street, Saltaire.

Marriage

22 April 1916 at St. Pauls Shipley.
John Morrison, a labourer aged 20, married Edith Adelaide Wilkinson, also aged 20.
They both lived at 30 Rhodes Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 5 May 1916

Sample advertisement:

The Gala Committee

At a meeting of the Gala Committee of the Shipley and District Friendly and Trades Society held on Thursday evening, it was decided that owing to the war the usual annual gala given in Saltaire Park should be abandoned this year.
The meeting further decided to substitute in its place a house to house collection, the nett proceeds of which will be devoted to the Saltaire Hospital and other local charitable organisations.
The society has also made arrangements to hold their annual street collections in aid of the Saltaire Hospital and for the purchase of recommends for convalescent homes on Saturday May 13th where it is hoped everybody will wear the chosen favour – the jasmine flower.

Viola Day

Next Saturday is “Viola Day” and the proceeds are for that worthy organisation, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Comforts Fund.
It is hoped to set up a record on this occasion, and all those desiring of assisting the committee may obtain a supply of boxes and flowers by calling at the Victoria Hall (Saltaire), Somerset House (Shipley), or Carnegie Library (Windhill).
Next week a further batch of parcels will be sent out to the local lads with the colours. The packing and dispatching will be carried out under the supervision of Mr W V Ambler, sec.

Saltaire Angling Association

The Saltaire waters have, says Mr Pickles, fished very well this holiday. Several anglers have had good sport, accounting for nice baskets of trout. Messrs. Sellers, Hartley and Dove taking 20 fish between them average ¾ lb. Mr Thornton had very good sport at Grassington getting 12 fish, his best was 1lb 3oz, and he had several weighing ¾ lb each. This tells us the trout are moving well in our waters.

Cricket

In the Bradford Cricket League, Saltaire beat Laisterdyke by six wickets. Laisterdyke scored a modest 58 with Sydney Barnes taking six wickets. In reply Saltaire got the required runs easily with Barnes finishing unbeaten on 15.

Small Ad

Apprentice wanted for the Plumbing trade, good opportunity for suitable boy – J E Kay, Registered Plumber, Saltaire.

Death

Pouncey – Alma, beloved husband of Eva Pouncey, 2 William Henry Street, Saltaire.          

Internment

St Pauls Churchyard 5 May 1916
Mary Ann Todd, aged 71, of 47 Caroline Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 12 May 1916

Sample advertisement:

The Saltaire Institute

The first general meeting of the Saltaire Institute Society recently formed with the object of reviving interest in the Institute (part of the Salt School Trust) was a held a week ago.
Sir Ellis Denby (president) was in the chair, and there was a large attendance amongst others present being Lady Denby, Mrs F W Rhodes, Miss Wheatley Jackson, Mrs G A Bauer, Miss Haddon, Thos. Hill (chairman of the District Council), Councillor F Rhodes, Rev F B Hope (vicar of St Peter’s Church), Rev P Drummond Pringle (Saltaire Congregational Church), Mr J Douglas Smith (hon. sec.), Mr E Clifford (hon. treasurer), Mr W R Plunkett, Mr J E Shackleton, Mr Walter Popplestone (Director of Education), Mr Walter Scott and Mr C Ingham.
The financial statement presented by Mt Fry, showed that the income from the subscriptions, and the two lectures had been £131 4s and the expenditure was £71 9s, leaving a balance of £59 15s, out of which it was decided to give £20 to the Shipley Branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild and £10 to the Shipley Soldiers and Sailors Comforts Fund.
In replying to an enquiry as to whether the Council could do anything in the way of improving the exits of the Victoria Hall, Councillor Hill observed that the Council was very shy of starting any alterations in the Victoria Hall because there were so many criticisms by the residents of Shipley. As soon as the Council suggested an alteration to the Hall, they began to tread on somebody’s corns. At the same time he agreed that alterations were necessary. As a matter of fact the Libraries Committee had already had a meeting with a view to considering certain alterations to the doorways.
With regard to the outside of the building, it had never been attended to since it was built, and it required attention. To make the necessary improvements, however, meant the expenditure of money, and they should not lose sight of the fact that the building although a very valuable one to the town, had been a great burden to Shipley. Last year it cost the ratepayers £200. (Note - £200 is worth “c£16k in 2016). They had a splendid array of patrons for the building but unfortunately none of them paid any rent, (Laughter).
Proceeding, Councillor Hill said that the outside repairs alone would cost something like £300. It was apparent, therefore that the scheme of renovations would be a big job. The question of altering the exits was somewhat puzzling to him and he did not know how it was going to be done. 
Councillor F Rhodes was glad to know that the Institute Society had the interests of the Saltaire Institute at heart, and that members were looking forward to raising money for the renovation fund. If the Institute Committee would help the Council with the decorations of the interior, the Council would look after the outside repairs, (Applause).

Funds

The secretary of the Soldiers and Sailors Comforts Fund acknowledges:-

• Per E C Fry (hon treasurer Saltaire Institute Society) part proceeds of two lectures, £10
• Per Councillor T F Doyle, proceeds of concert and dance held in Victoria Hall, April 22nd, £4 4s 3d
• Street collection “Viola” Day, May 6th , £6 9s

Saltaire Rose Society

The Rose Show, which for thirteen years has been such a popular event in Saltaire Park, will not be held this year. It need scarcely be said that the only reason for this decision is the war. A number of residents of Shipley Glen promoted a small exhibition last year for the benefit of local war funds and the committee of the Saltaire Rose Society have offered to co-operate with them in any similar effort which they may decide to make this season.

Victoria Hall

On Wednesday and Thursday next, 17th and 18th, the famous musical comedy, “The Girl in the Fair”, will visit Saltaire.
Miss Gladys Garner will take the part of the fascinating Suzanne, one of the most attractive figures in musical comedy. The equally effective part of Hubert, will be played by Mr Douglas Vine. The other parts will be in equally capable hands, and a thoroughly enjoyable entertainment may be anticipated.
Seats may be booked at Mr B Allsop’s stationer, Commercial Street.

Small Ad

For Sale, Sofa, in green leather, good condition, cheap, apply between 6.30pm and 8pm, 61 Victoria Road, Saltaire.

Marriage

The marriage took place on Tuesday, 10th May 1916, at the Registry Office, Bradford, of Corporal Arthur George Brown, Royal Engineers, George Street, Saltaire, and Miss Annie Harris, Victoria Road, Saltaire.
The bridegroom fought on the Gallipoli Peninsular, and has spent the last two months at the Front in France. He was married at 9 am and at 10.25 am he left Bradford, for the continent with the best wishes of his many friends, that he might have good luck and a safe return.

Saltaire War Diary: 19 May 1916

Sample advertisement:

Saltaire Soldier Accidently Killed

Mrs Skirrow, who lives with her parents, Mr and Mrs H Wainwright, of 7 Dove Street, has received intimation of the death of her husband, Harry Skirrow. He was with the 20th West Yorkshire Regiment and he died from injuries accidently received when training at a grenade school.
Corporal Skirrow, who was 24 years of age, and joined his regiment a year ago, had previously served for five years in the Shipley detachment of the Royal Army Medical Corps. His wife is left with two little children. He was formerly employed by Messrs. Waite Bros., painters, of Shipley, from whom the widow has received a letter of sympathy.
His last letter home, posted the day before he met his death, and addressed to his wife stated that he had been moved up the line some 12 miles. He added:-
“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’ .”  
The Rev. F G Goddard (the chaplain of the battalion) writing to Mrs Skirrow says:-
“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 realisation of the presence of Christ in times of stress and danger. I have so often seen it, and may you experience it too.”
Sergeant J O’Brien wrote:-
“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.”

The Lions at Saltaire

At a recent meeting of the Shipley District Council it was stated by Councillor E Cowgill (chairman of the Libraries Committee) that both the inside and the outside of the Saltaire Institute requires renovating and the condition of the stone lions in front of the Institute and the Girls’ High School are “weathering” badly.
Recognising that the Institution is in need of repair, and that something must be done to arrest the decay of the “lions,” the Council have appointed a committee to go into the whole matter and report.
It is interesting to recall the fact that the stone lions referred to were originally designed by the sculptor Mr Thomas Milnes for the base of the Nelson Column in Trafalgar Square, and that they represent Vigilance, Determination, War and Peace. Sir Edward Landseer, however, subsequently received the commission for the lions for Trafalgar Square and Sur Titus Salt bought the models by Mr Milnes and had them placed in their present position at Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 26 May 1916

Sample advertisement:

Click on image to magnify

“Shipley Council against Conscription”

Mr H Bayliffe, of 17 William Henry Street, Saltaire, secretary of the above organisation sends us the following:-
“Under the auspices of the Council, a great open-air demonstration was held on Shipley Glen, on Sunday May 21st. at which the following resolution was unanimously carried: That this meeting expresses its uncompromising hostility to the proposals of the Military Service Bill (No 2) now before Parliament, believing such to be a grave menace to the political and industrial development of organised labour, it especially condemns its proposals for the automatic conscription of lads of 18; the effect and intention of which is to establish permanently a system of military conscription in this country.”

Saltaire Congregational Church

At the Saltaire Congregational Chapel on Sunday, the Sunday school anniversary was held. The preacher in the morning was the Rev. Hugh Jenkins (of Batley), and in the evening the Rev. Matthew Stanley occupied the pulpit. In the afternoon an address to the scholars was delivered by the Rev F H Toseland (Shipley).  The collections amounted to £30.

Veteran Cricketers

Messrs. Sir Titus Salt Bart. Sons and Co. Ltd, the owners of Saltaire Park, have again granted permission to the Shipley Veterans to play a cricket match in the park on June 21st.
These matches have taken place in the park for some years past, and are always a source of pleasure to the veterans, and at the same time helpful to their benevolent fund. The ages of the players average over seventy. On this occasion it is hoped that a party of the Chellow Dene Council Veterans will take part in the match.

To Our Readers – Growing Scarcity of Paper

In view of the Government’s drastic restrictions on the supply of paper, and the difficulties caused by labour shortage, all publishers of newspapers are urgently asking newsagents to reduce their unsold copies to the lowest possible margin.
We appeal to our readers to assist by placing a definite order with their newsagents for the weekly delivery of the “Times and Express” instead of buying it here and there. This will materially help to meet the demand without waste of paper and labour, and it will benefit both the country and ourselves.

Saltaire Defeated in Cricket Clash

The presence at Idle of the greatest batsman and the greatest bowler, who were on opposing sides, exercised a potent spell over the sporting public, and as real cricket weather prevailed for the first time this season an attendance of between four and five thousand persons was the result. The actual receipts at the turnstiles were £65 (worth c£5,100 in 2016).
The wicket at Idle where the opposing teams were Idle and Saltaire, was not hard, but it was by no means without life, and the game was full of animation. Batting first Idle only amassed 73, a total which the wise men did not consider sufficient. As the Idle men won by 20 runs the result proves how unwise it is to put faith in prophets.
Opening the innings for Idle, Hobbs was the top score with 24. Barnes took four wickets. When Saltaire batted Barnes opened for them but he could only score seven runs; Hobbs took seven wickets.

Saltaire War Diary: 2 June 1916

Sample advertisement:

Soldier’s Death

Corporal C S Whalley of the 3rd Royal Dublin Fusiliers, has died at his home, 35 Ada Street, Saltaire. He was called up as a reservist at the beginning of the war, and was sent to France, being subsequently invalided to Gravesend Hospital in November 1914. He was afterwards drafted to the Dardanelles, but later had to be brought to Cork Hospital in Ireland. He had left there on the 16th of December last and since been at home.
Corporal Whalley was formerly employed in the finishing department at Saltaire Mills. He had, before the war, seen active service, having been in India and Egypt.
His name is on the Roll of Honour at the Saltaire Wesleyan Church from where some eighty men have joined the forces. Corporal Whalley, who was thirty-two years of age, leaves a widow. The funeral takes place this afternoon at Nab Wood Cemetery.

Diphtheria Cases at Saltaire

In moving the minutes of the School Staff Sub-Committee, Councillor F Rhodes referred to the fact that an epidemic of diphtheria had broken out in the in the neighbourhood of the Albert Road Council School in Saltaire. On visiting the school he found that five cases had occurred in one class, a fact which he considered rather singular.
The sub-committee had been in consultation with the Medical Officer of Health (Dr Foster), and in consequence the whole class of forty-five scholars had been sent home, and the classroom was isolated.
The epidemic had caused quite an alarm in the neighbourhood, and several of the mothers had taken their children away from the school. In addition to the forty-five sent home, thirty had been taken away by their parents.
An impression had got abroad that the school was going to be closed until after the Whitsuntide holidays, but that was not correct. At the same time the committee would have seriously to consider the advisability of closing the school if any more cases were reported. As they had all occurred in one classroom, it made one think the condition of the classroom was largely the cause of the outbreak. Some of the scholars had sisters in other classes, who were in their usual health.
Unfortunately, one of the children had died. The sub-committee had taken what steps they could to prevent the spread of the epidemic, and if they were not sufficient, more drastic action would be taken.
Councillor Doyle: Will the classroom be closed until after the holidays?
The Chairman replied that it would be closed to the children. As soon as the matter was brought to his notice, the classroom was immediately closed. It was not known really that the classroom was at fault, and it ought to be possible to find out what was the cause of the outbreak. If the room was not at fault, it should be cleared of any suspicions. It was better that the outbreak should have been confined to one classroom, than have the whole school affected. It was only natural that the parents should be alarmed.
Councillor Doyle wanted to know how many scholars there were in the class that was affected.
Councillor Rhodes: Forty-Five.
Councillor Doyle: Is that the exact number? I have heard today that the class is much larger, and that there were about 60 scholars attending. It was only a small room.
County Alderman Dunn remarked that he was glad the outbreak was confined to one class, and he did not think the infection came from the classroom. There was an outbreak not many miles away from Shipley, some months previously, and in the schools in the area affected, every child had a swab taken from its throat, this being sent to the bacteriologist at Wakefield. If Dr Foster would do the same in the present instance, it might be possible to prevent the spread of the epidemic. It should be done without the slightest delay and investigations should be made with respect to the sanitary conditions of the houses in which the children lived.
Whatever the cause was, it must be traced and stopped. There was nothing wrong with the classroom and he did not think there was any risk of any of the children still attending the school being affected.
Miss Unwin said it was a very serious matter. All the pens and pencils ought to be burned, for the disease was largely spread by contact. One child would put a pen or pencil in its mouth, and then another child would do the same thing afterwards. That was how the disease was spread. The same remarks applied to the books which had been used. The children wet their fingers and turn the pages over. It was a bad habit amongst children, and matters of that nature should be looked into. The germs were not so much in the air as in the case of scarlet fever.
It was stated by the Chairman that steps were being taken to cope effectively with the epidemic.

Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital

At the meeting of the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital Board, on Wednesday evening, Mr B Allsop (chairman) presiding, it was reported that there were at present 96 out-patients. At the las meeting there 11 in-patients, and 11 had since been admitted, making a total of 22. Fifteen of these had been discharged, leaving seven in hospital.
Dissatisfaction was expressed with the condition of the laundry, but it was recognised that owing to the shortage of labour, it was not possible to affect any improvement at present.
Mr Walker Cryer said that it would be a great convenience if the Matron could send a telephone message to the Police Station every night, stating the number of beds at liberty. This information would greatly assist the police in case of a raid by enemy aircraft. In a reply to a remark made by a member that an air-raids were like an outbreak of fire and occurred when least expected.
Mr C E Fry said that in case of an air-raid the hospital telephone could not be used. Mr Cryer observed that if they waited until the raiders actually came, the police would be too busy with the telephone for other purposes.
The Chairman said that if the police wanted any information it could be obtained from the Matron.

Cricket

Over three thousand people watched Baildon Green have the better of a drawn game against the home team at Saltaire Park

Death

Ripley – On the 31st May, at 28 Mary Street, Saltaire, Margaret Ann, the beloved wife of John Thomas Ripley. Funeral will leave the above address at 2 o’clock prompt on Saturday, June 3rd, for St Peter’s Church. Internment at Crag Cemetery Windhill.

Saltaire War Diary: 9 June 1916

Sample advertisement:

Soldier’s Funeral

The funeral Corporal C S Whalley of the 3rd Royal Dublin Fusiliers, of, 35 Ada Street, Saltaire rook place at Nab Wood Cemetery, Shipley on Friday (2nd June).
A service, largely attended, was held at the Saltaire Wesleyan Chapel, the Reverend W B Mattison officiating.
A detachment of the Army Service Corps stationed at Bradford attended, and there were also present a number of soldiers who, before joining the forces, were connected with the Saltaire Wesleyan Church and Sunday school. The coffin was mounted on a gun carriage, and draped in a Union Jack.
After the internment the “Last Post” was sounded by the cornetist of the military band which was present. There were many beautiful floral tributes. The funeral was in the hands of Mr William Whitfield.

Diphtheria Outbreak at Shipley

The committee appointed by the Shipley Education Committee to investigate the outbreak of diphtheria at the schools and especially at the Albert Road School, Saltaire, have had several meetings, and have come to the conclusion that the schools are in no way responsible for the outbreak, and that the sanitary conditions of the schools and of the town generally are quite satisfactory.
They are of the opinion that the infection has been spread amongst the children by personal contact. Although there have been some deaths from the disease, there is nothing to justify public alarm.
There have been three cases notified since the matter was first discussed and the sanitary authorities are satisfied that everything possible is being done to prevent the spread of the disease.

Holiday Muddle

A meeting of the workpeople at Saltaire Mills was held after working hours on Tuesday night to consider the question of the postponement of the Whitsuntide holidays. The meeting was addressed Sir James Roberts, who was accompanied by Mr C H Briggs, secretary of the company.
Sir James described the present times as exceptional and serious. It had always been his practice, and always would be so long as he was connected with Saltaire, to confer with the workers on serious questions.
This was no ordinary war between soldiers of different countries, but one that affected the very youngest in the nation, and in the settlement of which the youngest worker in the mill could do something.
He was most unwilling to make any request that they should forego their holidays and he felt that in the past the work people had not any grounds for complaint so far as the question of holidays was concerned. It would hearten our soldiers who were making the greatest sacrifice to know that our ineligible workers were doing their bit by giving up their holidays.
As an example of the ferocity and unscrupulousness of the enemy he referred to the news of the killing of Lord Kitchener and his staff, and expressed the opinion that so long as Germans were allowed to be at large, whether naturalised or not, whether known by their original German or Anglicised names, we might expect the continuance of this kind of experience as a result of their perfect spy system.
This year circumstances called for different consideration from last year. He took holidays as a matter of necessity, and he would like the workers to have as much holidays as was necessary, but this year the situation was different.
Sir James asked if the children’s Whitsuntide celebrations were to take place and was told they had been deferred. This he said was an added reason why work should continue.
The question was put to the vote, and there was a unanimous show of hand in favour of postponement.
It was then decided to postpone the Whitsuntide holidays until the usual holiday at Shipley Feast.
Before the meeting terminated Sir James intimated to the workers that he was exceedingly proud to think that they had unanimously assented to what he thought was a patriotic course to adopt.
The school children of Bradford will after all have their Whitsuntide holidays. The Education Committee came to their decision yesterday.

Letter to the Editor of the Yorkshire Post

Sir – Now that so many people are of the opinion that the sinking of HMS Hampshire and the loss of Lord Kitchener were due to the action of some German agents in this country, it is possible, though hardly probable, that some action will be taken by the authorities.
I notice that Sir James Roberts, in an address to the workers at Saltaire Mills, advocates the internment of all aliens of enemy country birth – naturalised or un-naturalised – and surely this should be done.
22, Barry Street, Bradford, June 8.

Salts School Sports Day

The annual athletic sports in connection with the Salt High Schools, were held on Wednesday afternoon in Saltaire Park, which had been placed at the disposal of the school by Sir James Roberts.
In spite of the uninviting state of the weather there was an excellent attendance of scholars, parents and friends. Since the outbreak of the war, the proceeds of the sports have been handed over to the various agencies working on behalf of the soldiers and sailors, and on this occasion it was expected that the amount realised would be about £12.
The 24 events attracted a large number of competitors. The prizes, including a silver cup given by Mrs Titus Salt and competed for each year were distributed by Mrs W Claridge of Idle.   

In Memoriam

Wallace – In loving memory of a dear husband and father, James Wallace, who passed away, June 10th 1915.
One year has passed since that sad day
When one we loved was called away.
God took him home it was his will
But in our hearts we love him still.
Kind thoughts they linger near our hearts.
And tears they often flow,
And to the place where he is laid
Our footsteps often go.

From Wife and Daughters, 3 Dove Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 16 June 1916

Sample advertisement:

Prisoners of War Tag Day

The Tag Day which is to take place in Shipley, to-morrow (Saturday) on the initiative of the Ladies Committee (Saltaire Institute) has for its object the assistance of those unfortunate soldiers from the town who are prisoners of war.
Those who have from time to time, read the Press reports of the hardships which these brave fellows have had to endure at the hands of an unscrupulous foe, will at once recognise that to-morrows effort is even more than usually deserving of  generous public support.
The noble work of the Ladies Committee requires no commendations. Ever since the needs of our gallant men become known, the ladies have worked devotedly to alleviate as much as possible the hard conditions under which they are serving.
There are some 15 or 16 Shipley soldiers and sailors in the hands of the enemy, and while these men have not been neglected in the past, it is felt that something more might be done for them in the future.
The letters occasionally received from them confirm that newspaper reports with respect to their plight, and if sufficient money is raised to-morrow, it is proposed to send a parcel each week to the men.
A revision of the list is being made, and relatives of prisoners of war should see or send full particulars to Mrs Foy, the energetic organising secretary, Saltaire Institute.

(Colin's note – Jane Nevins, born Glasgow 1854. She married Joseph Lawrence Foy 20 July 1880 at Holy Trinity Bingley. They had one son; Laurence (1881 – 1937). Joseph worked as a head teacher, in 1911 the family lived at 18 Bradford Road in Shipley. Living at 72 Manor Lane in Shipley Jane died 12 March 1933 and was buried at Hirst Wood Cemetery in Shipley. Her husband joined her when he died 19 January 1935.)     

Wounded Horses Tag Day

Don’t forget the Tag Day at Shipley on June 24th for the sick and wounded horses in the British Army. Also the Grand Procession of Horses on that date through the principal streets of Shipley, Saltaire and Windhill.
Any Manufacturers, Merchants or Tradesmen wishing to let their horses take part in the above procession will they please write the Secretary, and he will arrange for them.
We shall be glad of all the Lady Helpers we can get for June 24th, and our Secretary will attend the following places at the time stated to distribute boxes on Thursday night, June 22nd.

Carnegie Library 5.45 to 6.45pm
Somerset House 7.0 to 8.0pm
Saltaire Institute 8.0 to 9.0pm

We think this is a very worthy object. Will you come and help to make it a success? – Tom F Slade, Sec., 13 Oakfield Terrace, Carr Lane, Windhill.

 Donations

The Hon. Treasurer of the Shipley Soldiers and Sailors Comforts fund, requests me to acknowledge the receipt of 10s, given anonymously by a soldier, on leave from the Front, in appreciation of parcels sent to him and £3 from Miss Byles, describes the gift as a small contribution from the proceeds of the recent entertainment given by the pupils of Salts Girls High School.

Shipley Tribunal

A sitting of the Shipley Military Tribunal took place on Friday evening (9th June). There were 21 cases dealt with, the majority of which, including eleven employees of Sir Titus Salt, Bart, Sons and Co Ltd (Saltaire Mills), were taken in private.

Cricket

In the first round of the Priestley Charity Cup Saltaire beat Idle. Batting first Saltaire scored 73, in reply Idle could only muster 31 runs, with the great Jack Hobbs only scoring six runs.

Marriages

St Pauls 10th June – Norman Constantine, 23, railway porter of 24 Rhodes Street married Selina Kendall, 22, of 36 Dockfield Road, Shipley

St Peters 10th June – Edith Harvey, 26, of 2 Katherine Street married Frank Laycock, 26, a gunner from Bradford.

Saltaire War Diary: 23 June 1916

Sample advertisement:

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Prisoners of War Tag Day

The ladies committee for providing clothing comforts for soldiers and sailors, held a street collection last Saturday on behalf of the military prisoners of war. About 150 collectors took out boxes. The collection was organised by Mrs Foy, who is the hon. secretary of the committee.
Parcels of food are now being sent out regularly by this committee to Shipley men who are prisoners of war in Germany. Recently a little present of handkerchiefs was sent to 70 Shipley boys at the front.
The headquarters of the committee are at the Saltaire Institute. Saturday’s collection was considered very satisfactory in view of similar efforts in adjoining districts.

Recruitment Meetings

The Shipley Volunteer Force are to hold two recruitment meetings on Monday evening. They will have the assistance of a number of the officers from Bradford, and the proceedings will be enlivened by the band who gave a magnificent concert in Lister Park on Saturday. The first meeting is to be held in the Market Place at 8.15 and the other at Saltaire, near the tram shed, at 9.15.
By the way, Councillor Frank F Rhodes (honorary commandant of the Shipley corps) is strongly on favour of local tribunals making it a condition that men granted exemption from military service for special reasons, should attend drills with the local volunteer force. It is somewhat of an anomaly, he says that while the Shipley Tribunal, of which he is a member, refuse to impose such a condition, the tribunals in neighbouring towns adopt that course, and as a result the Shipley Corps train such men from other towns, while they get none of their own.
On this point the following letter has been received by Mr Lindow (Clerk to the Shipley Tribunal):-

3rd Battalion West Riding Volunteers, Shipley Company
To the Clerk of the Shipley Tribunal
Sir, - May I draw your attention to the fact that many tribunals all over the country are now only granting exemption on conditions that the men agree to put in a reasonable number of drills per week with the local volunteer force.
The District tribunals at Leeds, Bradford, Keighley, and Baildon have such a condition, and I would suggest, in the best interests of the men, that the Shipley Tribunal should require the same conditions to be observed.
Many of the Derby recruits have received great advantage from their training with this corps, and the officers and non-commissioned officers freely offer the same advantage to men seeking exemption. – I am sir, your obedient servant, E S Sharpe, Commander.

Gift

Sir James Roberts, Bart., of Saltaire, has offered £10,000 to the University of Leeds for the foundation and maintenance of a professorship of Russian language and literature. His munificent gift has been gratefully accepted by the University Council.

(Colin’s note - £10,000 is worth c£790k in 2016.)

Electrician Badly Injured

A somewhat serious accident occurred on Saturday morning to an electrician named James Lancaster of 41 Titus Street, Saltaire. It appears that Lancaster was engaged upon an electric fuse at Briar Field Mills and was filing a nut at the rear of a switchboard.
Unfortunately the file came into contact with a live wire, causing it to fuse. Lancaster’s clothes caught fire and he his hands and face were severely burnt. He was also suffering from shock.
After first-aid had been rendered to his injuries he was removed in the ambulance to the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital and detained.

Veteran’s Gathering

On Wednesday afternoon before a fair sprinkling of spectators, the annual veterans’ cricket match took place in Saltaire Park. The encounter was inaugurated some years ago by the Rosse Street Baptist Veterans’ Association with a view to raising money towards a benevolent fund, the object of which is to provide comforts for any necessitous member of the association who chances to be ill.
The fund being in a fairly prosperous condition this year, it was decided to give the proceeds of the match to the Shipley Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Comforts Fund.
Mr Dean’s team (Shipley Veterans) opposed Mr Robinson’s team (composed of local veterans and friends) with a comfortable win enjoyed by Mr Robinson’s team.
After the match an excellent tea was partaken of at the Café. In the evening an enjoyable social gathering was presided over by Mr Wm. Hulme.

(Colin’s note – William Hulme was born in Liverpool in 1847. He married Clara Preston in Bradford in 1876. They had four children. Clara died in 1908. In 1911 William was a rent agent living in Frizinghall. He died in 1933.)

Marriage

WALKER – FEATHER – On June 20th, at Rosse Street Baptist Church, Shipley by the Rev. H W Burdett. Herbert, son of Mrs W Walker and the late Wm. Walker of Shipley, to Emma Elizabeth Feather, daughter of Mrs Mitchell and the late James Feather of Saltaire.

(Colin’s note – Emma Elizabeth Feather was born in 1892, in the same year her father died. In 1901 she was living at 18 Titus Street with her widowed mother. In 1911 she was a dressmaker living with her mother and step-father at 47 Rhodes Street.)

Saltaire War Diary: 30 June 1916

Sample advertisement:

Transcription: SIR TITUS SALT'S HOSPTIAL, SHIPLEY
The Governors are prepared to receive the names of Painters willing to tender for the work of painting the exterior woodwork etc. of this Hosptial.
Applications for specifications to be sent to the Clerk on or before 16th July.
THOS. LUXTON,
Clerk to the Governors.

Shipley Corps

The meeting at the top of Albert Road, Saltaire was presided over by Councillor Thomas Hill (chairman of the District Council), and addressed by the same speaker.
Councillor Hill who takes a deep interest in the volunteer movement, spoke of the splendid work which had been done by the Shipley Corps. There were many who for various reasons could not join the corps, but all could help. It was a voluntary movement, and was worthy of support.
The members were doing their best to make themselves ready to render whatever assistance the nation might require of them, and the people of the district ought to help and encourage them in every possible way.
Some argued that there were plenty of men to defend our country, but no one could foresee what would happen. If the regulars were required for service abroad, the volunteers would then be able to take their places here. It was up to all do everything they ought to make the movement a great success. (Applause). 

Salts Hospital Governors

A meeting of the Governors of the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital was held on Wednesday evening, at the Hospital, Mr B Allsop presiding. Other members present were Councillors C E Learoyd, John Pitts, Messrs. Walker Cryer, Francis Lister, T Kendall, Miss Dunn and Mrs. Rhodes.
The Clerk (Mr Thomas Luxton) reported that the number of out-patients were 70. The in-patients at the beginning of the month numbered 7. Twenty had been admitted, 17 discharged and 10 remained.
A letter was read from Dr Ellis, volunteering to assist at the hospital in case the calling up of doctors’ place the staff in difficulties. The offer was accepted and the doctor thanked for the same.
The following gifts have been received: - Mrs M J Brown (for attention), 10s; Mrs Bailey (for attention), £2; Employees Lee and Crabtree, £1 12s 6d; Flowers received from Mr J W Hind.

Diphtheria

It was reported in the minutes of the School Canteen Sub-Committee that Dr Foster (School Medical Officer) had inspected 135 children, and had discovered 28 cases requiring medical treatment.
The Medical Officer also referred to the outbreak of diphtheria amongst the school children during the past month. It was only a limited outbreak, he said, and mainly affected the children attending Albert Road School.
Six cases occurred in a few days in one class (Standard I.) He deemed it advisable to send the children of that class home on 26th of May until after the Whitsuntide holidays. The throats of 36 children were swabbed and the swabs sent to Wakefield for bacteriological examination. All gave negative results with one exception, and the child who gave a positive result was isolated from the other children until a second swab gave a negative result. The children were removed to Stoney Ridge Hospital with one exception. 
Libraries Committee

At the meeting of this committee a letter was read from Lady Denby, on behalf of the Committee of the Queen Mary Needlework Guild, asking for the use of Victoria Hall and other rooms at the Institute for a bazaar, on the 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th September next, in connection with an effort to raise £500 for the purchase of a hut for the Y.M.C.A., and to aid the funds of Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild. The committee acceded to the request, and agreed to allow 25 per cent off the ordinary charges for the room.
The Chairman of this Committee submitted a time-table showing the employment of the Libraries Staff, and asking the consent of the Committee to the adoption of a half-day closing for the two libraries. The alteration would enable the half-day holiday to be arranged, and would effect some economy in expenditure. The Committee recommended the Libraries be closed on Wednesday afternoons for a period of three months as an experiment.
Councillor Cowgill said that recommendation in regard to the closing of the Libraries was made in order to facilitate the work of the staff, and in order to secure certain economies. It would not inflict any hardship whatsoever upon the public.
Councillor Linley seconded. Councillor Reynolds suggested that some other day would have been better, seeing that Wednesday was the shopkeepers’ half day holiday, and that was the only opportunity that they had to get their own books.
Councillor Cowgill replied that his experience was that shopkeepers did not spend their time in the libraries on Wednesday afternoons, but went into the country. He did not think that to close on a Wednesday afternoons would inflict any hardship upon shopkeepers.
The minutes were adopted.
At the Free Library at Saltaire, the number of books borrowed during May was 5,129.
(Colin’s note: As a comparison, in 2014 Shipley Library averaged 1125 books borrowed per month.)

Marriage

27 June 1916 at St. Peters Shipley
Tom Harrison, 24, Soldier of 8 Shirley Street in Saltaire married Ethel Spurr, 22, of 38 Titus Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 7 July 1916

Sample advertisement:

Volunteer Recruiting Meeting

The local corps of Volunteers, of which Councillor F Rhodes is the hon. commandant, are continuing their vigorous recruiting campaign.
On Friday night they held two successful meetings – one in the Market Place and the other at Saltaire. The chief speakers were Sergeant-Major Heptonstall, Second Commander Lund, Platoon Commander Henderson and Sub-Commander Bullas. Much enthusiasm has been aroused by these meetings, and many recruits are being enrolled.

Geologists Visit Saltaire

The members of the Leeds Geological Association took place in an interesting excursion on Wednesday evening. They walked under the leadership of Mr W P Walker (science master at the Saltaire School) from Allerton to Saltaire by way of Chellow Dean and Nailor Rough. Singularly good opportunities were presented of examining the glacial features of the district, including examples of overflow channels and cols.
The route taken by the visitors lay over ground covering lower coal measured shales and sandstones, and the upper beds of the milestone grit. It was pointed out that the Halifax hard bed and soft bed coal were worked formerly and that several mines had recently been re-opened.

Accident

Early on Thursday morning, at the works of the Airedale Combing Company, Shipley, Harry Bland of 10, Dover Street, Bingley, an employee, was standing on a ladder repairing a shafting, when the ladder shifted, and he fell a distance of about 12 feet.
He was removed to the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital suffering from a wound at the back of the head and bruises on the right shoulder.

Shipley Technical School

In the City and Guilds of London examinations, the following students at the Saltaire Technical College passed in woollen and worsted weaving (Div. II, Grade 1) :- Walter Sharp, Austen G. Airey, Norman Hodgson. 

Thanks

Mrs N Walker and family desire to thank all kind friends for their kind expressions of sympathy in their recent bereavement – 5 George Street, Saltaire.

(Colin’s note – This refers to the death of John Edward Walker, who was known as “Neddy”. Neddy and his wife, Sarah Jane, had three sons who fought in the war: Harold, Herbert and Wilfred.)

Saltaire War Diary: 14 July 1916

Sample advertisement:

Transcription:
SHIPLEY AND SALTAIRE ADULT SCHOOLS
ON SUNDAY MORNING, July 16th 1916,
at 9 o'clock, at
THE NEW CHURCH
(\Opposite the Wesleyan Chapel, Saltaire),
MISS SALT (Late of Milner Field)
Will Speak on
"The New Nation: Its Beauty and Peace."
Afternoon 3.15,
ROSSE STREET SUNDAY SCHOOL
MISS SALT speaks on
"Ideals in War time."
Discussions and questions invited.

Conscience Man in Caravan

Norman Sanctuary, of George Street, Saltaire, appeared at the Skipton Police Court on Tuesday on a charge of being an absentee under the Military Service Act.
It was stated that prisoner was found living in a caravan at Austwick, and that when charged by a military officer from Bradford, said that the prisoner was given notice to appear on about June 12th. He had appeared before the local Tribunal in February, but his claim was dismissed, and appeared before the Central Tribunal with the same result.
The prisoner now said that he based his appeal on conscientious grounds, but he was unable to be present at the Appeal Tribunal. He asked that the case should be adjourned in order that he might secure legal representation.
Replying to questions, the prisoner said that his circumstances had entirely changed since the hearing of the appeals. At that time there was himself and a brother at home. The latter, however, was now serving in France. Consequently, there was only himself left to keep his father and mother who were 73 years old.
The Chairman said that they could not deal with this matter, and a fine of 4s was imposed, and the prisoner being amended to await a military escort.

(Colin’s note –The brother referred to is, Fred Sanctuary)
  

Work of the Ladies Committee

As the result of the recent Veterans’ Cricket Match in Saltaire Park, the very gratifying sum of £10 18s 6d has been handed over to the Shipley Ladies’ Committee Soldier’ and Sailors’ Clothing Comfort’ Fund.
In acknowledging the receipt of this amount, the secretary of the Fund (Mrs J Foy) has written to Mr James Cousin as follows :-

“We think it is a splendid donation and all send our very best wishes. We trust the veterans will all be spared to see the end of this dreadful war, and that they may be able to play many more cricket matches.”
Mrs Foy also gives the following interesting particulars of the work of her committee. “At the outbreak of the war, the Ladies Committee was formed to deal with War Distress, and they have been working continuously since then. When the men at first enlisted, they had often to await many weeks before they got their clothing, so the committee arranged to fit up with a complete change of clothing all Shipley men (who needed it) as they enlisted. Each man received two shirts, two pairs of socks, a belt, a scarf, a sleeping cap, one pair of mittens, and often an overcoat. When the Government became able to clothe the men then this was not needed.
Last December we sent out 512 Xmas parcels among which were 400 home-made cakes. Altogether we have sent out 12,000 articles of clothing. In addition we are now taking charge of our Shipley prisoners in Germany, and are sending out four or five parcels every week.
For the last two weeks each parcel contained:-
Bread (2 loaves)
Biscuits (1/2 lb)
Dripping (1/2 lb)
Nut Butter (6 ½ lbs)
Corn Beef (1 tin)
(Treacle 1 tin)
Swiss milk (1 tin)
Oxo cubes (1 tin)
Sugar (1/4 lb)
Tea (2 ozs)
Cigarettes (2 packets)
Soap (1 tablet)
One pair of socks and one handkerchief
We believe the prisoners are practically starving, and I am sure the veterans will feel great pleasure in knowing that they have contributed to the alleviation of the suffering of our brave lads.”

Attempted Suicide

At the Bradford West Riding Police Court on Monday, a charge of attempting to commit suicide was preferred against William Bone, metal polisher, of 25 Constance Street in Saltaire.
Superintendent Keel said that the defendant had changed his occupation, and said he did so for fear he was being followed by a gang of Lancashire men, and he was trying to get out their way.
He had a large family and there was some lotion in the house. On Sunday night, the wife went out, and on her return the defendant said, “I have done it; I have tried to finish myself; I have taken an egg cupful of this lotion”.
The doctor would say that it was not a deadly poison; still the man’s intention was there, as he said he was about to finish himself, and he had been in a depressed condition.
The defendant was remanded for a fortnight in order that he might be medically examined.

Saltaire War Diary: 21 July 1916

Sample advertisement:

Shipley Tribunal

At the last two sittings of the Shipley Tribunal there were forty-three cases down for hearing, including sixteen from Sir Titus Salt Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd., and eight from Windhill Co-operative Society which were considered in camera. Of the nineteen that remained, six made claim for exemption on conscientious grounds.
The first of these was William Lonsdale, a weaving overlooker, employed by Sir Titus Salt Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd. The applicant said that he appealed on conscientious grounds, and also for business reasons. His trade was in the reserve list.
The Chairman (Councillor Thomas Hill): The question of your being engaged in a reserved occupation rests with the Tribunal – Decidedly.
And what about the other grounds – As a Christian I do not feel that I can bring myself to such a state of mind as to enable me to train in order to kill a fellowman.
Mr Burton (military representative): How long have you held these views – Practically all my life.
You have a wife and two children? – Yes
Well would you not take any steps to defend your wife and children? – Yes I would.
Supposing you were placed as our Allies in Belgium were placed and you had no chance, the power of the Germany being what it was and the villages and towns being over-run, would you invite them into your house or would you strive to protect your wife and children? – One can scarcely tell what one would do.
What do you think you would do? – I would do my best to protect them.
That is all you are asked to do now – It is a different thing altogether. You are asking me to prepare myself to slay my fellow men.
No it is making yourself fit to protect them – I am not going to prepare beforehand for an emergency of that kind. I believe if everybody would accept my views such wars as this would not be possible.
But you see they have not accepted your views. The country is in danger, and the Germans have not accepted your views. On the contrary they have been preparing for war during 30 years. Do you seriously tell the Tribunal that, as an Englishman, you wish to remain at home in England enjoying the freedom of an Englishman and will not lend a hand to those hundreds of thousands of men who are fighting your battles and mine today?
The Applicant: I think I am lending a hand in trying to create a better opinion. I have nothing more to say.
The Chairman: Are you basing your appeal on your conscientious objection or on your trade? – No, I am claiming for –
The Chairman (interrupting): Either yes or no.   
The Applicant: Well, I am claiming on both grounds.
Mr Burton: Your business claim is not before the Tribunal.
The Chairman: Your appeal will be refused, and you will be sent to non-combatant service.
The applicant was in accordance with his request handed an appeal form.

Herbert Bayliffe, a weaving overlooker, also employed at Saltaire Mills, sought exemption for conscientious reasons.
The Chairman: How long have you held these views? – Oh, a good many years. I was brought up with them.
Mr Burton: You heard the questions I asked Mr Lonsdale? – Yes, sir.
Do you feel the same conscientious objections to taking part in helping your country? – Yes
Are you married? – Yes.
How would it be with regard to your own household? Do you think there was ever a better time when man could use the muscle and strength that God had given him, than when he is called upon to defend those who are near and dear to him? Do you think God has given you muscles in order that you may stand by and see how other people use theirs? – They are not to fight with.
You have made up your mind? – Oh yes.
I suggest that the Tribunal find you some work that will give you an opportunity of using your muscles while the other men are fighting.
The Chairman: Your appeal is refused, but you will be given a certificate for non-combatant service – Can I have an appeal form please?
Yes, but I should like it to be understood that it is not necessary for us to give those forms when asked for. The Tribunal have the power to refuse to do so if they think fit.

James Ince, employed at Saltaire Mills as a spinning overlooker, asked the Tribunal to excuse him from serving with the colours because of his conscientious objections to war. He had been teaching children a knowledge of Jesus Christ he said, and to take up arms would be inconsistent with that teaching. In his opinion the Tribunal would be acting disloyalty to the country if they sent conscientious objectors to the army. In any case he would not kill; he could not after the stand he had taken during his life. Furthermore, if he had to attend a military or civil court, he would be obliged to swear by the Bible, the latter, however told him he had not to –
Mr Burton (interrupting): I would not go into that sort of thing I were you for everybody who has read the Bible knows that a very large part of the Old Testament describes the courage and soldiery qualities of the Jews – I was referring to the New Testament.
You said the Bible – Further I have a pledge which I took in the presence of 400 men to serve the Lord Jesus Christ. If you would like to see it, it is there.
No, I do not want to appear to be wanting in respect to your conscientious objections. I would like you to look at the matter for a moment in this light. You are living in England and earning your living in England – I suppose.
As a Christian you have been taking sufficient interest in your country’s affairs to know that there is a terrible war going on – Yes.
You know how the war arose, and what the result will be if we are not successful along with our Allies in beating the enemy. You know that, and you also know that hundreds of thousands of men answered the call of their country and are now fighting on the battlefield like men. Others who are not fighting, are doing work of national importance while you remain here gathering your living as usual. Christians always show gratitude. How do you wish to show as a Christian that you appreciate the efforts of those who are maintaining the safety and freedom of this country? – I cannot take part in killing.
Mr Burton (interrupting): Then what else would you do? – To go into the R.A.M.C. would be to pass under military authority. I am quite willing as a Christian to give up my present occupation if the Tribunal consider it is not of national importance, and help to nurse soldiers who have been discharged from the army. Once these soldiers are well again they can re-enter the army and I shall not be responsible.
Mr Burton: There are plenty of ways in which you can serve, but the man who wants to tell himself what he has to do, and when he has to do it, is not of much use. When the country is in straits and fighting for its life, there must be some organisation, and it cannot be left to you or any other Christian, to say what you will do. You must be told like thousands of others. You are asked to do work which is not killing, and suggest the Tribunal should ask you to join the army.
The Applicant: You have not said whether my work is of national importance or not yet.
Do you appeal on business grounds? – I claim as a conscientious objector, but my work is of national importance. I should not have a conscience if I refused to do work which the tribunal thinks is of national importance.
The Chairman: Your appeal will be postponed to November 1st seeing that you are engaged as a spinning overlooker.

Victoria Hall Trades Exhibition

The Trades Exhibition which is being held at the Victoria Hall is providing exceedingly popular. It is open daily from 2 until 5pm and from 6.30 till 9.30pm, and 10pm on Saturday. There is no charge for admission until after 6.30, when visitors will be expected to pay 1d. It must be understood that the exhibition is not held to realise a profit but to make the public acquainted with valuable food preparation etc.

Saltaire Adult School

Sunday last will long be remembered at the above school by a large number of people who assembled there in the evening to hear Miss Salt (a descendant of the founder of Saltaire) who opened the lesson on “The New Nation – Its Beauty and Peace.” In her most inspiring address Miss Salt said she thought the lesson would be better entitled, “Peace and Beauty,” as we could never have beauty unless there peaceful surrounds.
The word “Peace” had nearly gone from our vocabulary. It was now an opportune time for a great Christian push forward on the lines of peace, and the abolition of war. War was the cause of hatred, envy, fear, selfishness, and greed, which only tended to undermine our civilisation. The sooner we get back to the teaching of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, the sooner we should be live peaceably and harmoniously with all mankind.
Discussion followed and Miss Salt’s reply brought to a close one of the most memorable gatherings ever held in connection with the Adult School movement at Saltaire.
(Colin’s note – The Miss Salt referred to is Mary Isabel Salt, the only daughter of Titus Salt Jnr. In 1916 she was aged 40.)     

Death

Crabtree – July 18th at 34 Dove Street, Saltaire, Elizabeth the widow of Samuel Glover Crabtree.

Saltaire War Diary: 28 July 1916

Sample advertisement:

Saltaire Governors

A meeting of the Sit Titus Salt Hospital Governors was held on Wednesday night, Mr B Allsop presiding.
The monthly report submitted by Mr Fry stated that the out-patients during the month numbered 70, and the in-patients 10; the additional number admitted was 16, bringing the total up to 26, of whom 20 had been discharged, leaving 6 in at the moment.
The donations included flowers from Mrs Greenwood, Ivy House, Shipley; Mr Holland, Old Glen House; The Salt Schools (Girls); St Paul’s Sunday School  (buns from the Sunday School), £1 2s 6d received from the firm of Sir Titus Salt, Bart., and Co., whilst the employees of Messrs. Fyfe, Kemp and Co. subscribed 12s 8d.

Library

The number of books issued at the Saltaire Free Library during June was 4,858.

Appointments

Miss Ethel Knowles, B.A., and Miss Dorothy Thornton, B.Sc., have been appointed assistant mistresses at the Girls High School, Saltaire, the former at a salary of £120 per annum and the latter at £110.
(Colin’s note - £120 is worth c£9,500 in 2016)

Exam Success

At the examinations of the Incorporated Society of Musicians, held in Bradford, Harold Willington was successful in passing Grade 1, Pianoforte; Miss Lillie Watson passed Grade 3 with distinction in Pianoforte, and Miss Annie Raistrick passed Grade 3 with distinction in Singing. They are pupils of Miss Hilda Cooke, Saltaire.
Miss Adeline Laughlin, pupil of Annie Sanctuary, Saltaire, was again successful in gaining honours at the London College of Music examination held recently in Bradford.
(Colin’s note – Annie Raistrick was a sibling of Miles Raistrick who served in WW1. Miss Hilda Cook lived at 223 Bingley Rod.

Workers Educational Association

Another of those delightful rambles promoted by the Shipley Branch of the Workers’ Educational Association was held on Saturday with Mr W P Winter, B.Sc., (Science Master of Salt Schools) as a guide. The ramble took the form of a nature study, and as Mr Winter has an inexhaustible fund of knowledge on many subjects, which he freely imparted, the party were able to see the district in which they live from a different point of view.               

Scholarships

The following Shipley scholars have been awarded scholarships tenable at the Salt Schools for four years from August 1st of this year:-
Walter Driver, 18 Victoria Avenue (Albert Road Mixed School)
John P Cutler, 5 Clifton Place (Central Upper Standard Boys’ School)
William E Smart, 40 Wellington Crescent (Church of England Mixed School)
Ethel Bradley 263 Bingley Road (Albert Road Mixed School)
Ena Beck, Glen View Road (Albert Road Mixed School)
Alice Mason, 27 Alexandra Road (Central Upper Standard Girls’ School)
Elsie London, 6 Bradford Road (Central Upper Standard Girls’ School)
Nellie Wilcock, 20 Leyburn Grove (Otley Road Mixed School)
Nellie Riddiough, 16 Commercial Street (Otley Road Mixed School)
Constance Cropper, 22 Norwood Street (Otley Road Mixed School)

Saltaire Wesleyan C.C.

In the minutes of the Shipley Higher Education Sub-Committee, it was stated that a letter was read from Mr J W Hampson on behalf of the Saltaire Wesleyan Cricket Club, who owe the sum of £11 5s 6d. to the Education Committee in respect of one and half years’ rent of the recreation fields in Albert Road, asking that as nearly all the members of the club had joined H.M. Forces and the fields had not been used by the club this year, the Committee would accept one years’ rent (£7 10s) in settlement.
It was decided that as, in deference to the wishes of the Saltaire Wesleyan Cricket Club, about two years ago the Education Committee declined the application of another cricket club, consisting partly of old Salt School boys, to rent the fields, the Committee do not now consider that they are called upon to make any reduction from the amount of rent due from the Saltaire Wesleyan Cricket Club.

Appointment

The Shipley Education Committee agreed to the appointment of Miss Gladys S Harrison of Lancaster, as instructress in physical exercises at the Shipley Salt Girls’ High School and the Yeadon and Guiseley Secondary School at a salary of £120 per annum.
It was further resolved that the days and hours during which Miss Harrison will be required to teach at the two schools to be decided by Miss Byles (headmistress of the Salt Girls’ School), and Mr Dalton (Headmaster of the Yeadon and Guiseley School).

Small Ads

Wanted – an apprentice butcher. Apply A Rhodes & Son, Katherine Street, Saltaire

Wanted – young woman for housework and assist shop, no baking. – Thornton, Titus St, Saltaire. 

Saltaire War Diary: 4 August 1916

Sample advertisement

Transcript: SHIPLEY EDUCATION COMMITTEE. QUALIFIED TEACHERS of Commercial Geography, Millinery, House Painters' and Decorators' Work, Typewriting, and Building Trades' Subjects are required for Evening Classes at Shipley Technical School for the coming Winter Session. Teachers of Shorthand and Commercial Practice are also required for the Wood End Evening School. Forms of application for all the appointments may be obtained from the EDUCATION OFFICE, and should be returned so as to reach the Office on or before MONDDAY, the 14th AUGUST. WALTER POPPLESTONE, Director of Education, Education Office, Saltaire Road, Shipley. 3 August 1916.

Saltaire Soldier’s Distinction

Sergeant G C Milne, A.C.S., who is attached to the 2nd Bradford “Pals” (son of Mrs Milne of 39 Mary Street, Saltaire) has been awarded a certificate of merit. He has won this honour for excellent work in dressing the wounded during and after the attack of July 1st 1916, Colincamps sector of trenches. He helped to carry eleven wounded men on night of July 2nd, from front of our wire at much personal risk.
Before enlistment Sergeant Milne was employed by Messrs. Butterfield galvanisers, Shipley.

(Colin’s note - Colincamps is a commune in the Somme department in Picardie in northern France.)

League President’s Rebuff at Saltaire

Mr. J Booth (president of the Bradford Cricket League) was amongst the big crowd who witnessed the interesting game at Saltaire Park on Saturday, and, strange to say, he was refused admission to the pavilion.
He was desirous, of course, of securing a place on the balcony, but was denied the enjoyment of seeing the encounter from that exalted position.
As a rule, privileges are afforded heads of organisations, and one would expect that the chief official of a sporting fraternity would receive sportsmanlike treatment. This however, is hardly what was given to Mr. Booth on Saturday. What his feelings were we cannot say, but under similar circumstances most people would have been badly “nettled.” Without any boast or brag, Mr. Booth can fairly claim to have done more for the League than any other individual, and to say the least, the rebuff he received at Saltaire is a poor reward for services which we believe few if any other person could have rendered.

Saltaire Angling Association

The annual fishing contest was held at Ulleskelf on Monday July 31st. The first prize of £2 was won by Jesse Mitchell.

(Colin’s note – Ulleskelf is a small village on the River Wharfe, four miles from Tadcaster.) 

Soldier's Death

The death took place on July 16th of Private Tom Hodgson eldest son of Mrs. Hodgson (of Malton), late of St Paul’s Rd, Shipley. Prior to joining the A.S.C. as a butcher he was employed by Mr. Sam Long, Saltaire.
After having completed his training he was drafted out with his company to Egypt, and subsequently to Mesopotamia. Official notice has been received by his mother that he died at Basra from effects of heat.

(Colin’s note – Sam Long died in 1906. However his son Charles was a butcher at 14 Victoria Road in Saltaire – the business may have been in his father’s name.)

Small Ad

Wanted an apprentice butcher. Apply A Rhodes and Son, Katherine Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 11 August 1916

Sample advertisement

Click on image to magnify

Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital

The annual report of the Saltaire Hospital states that: The Governors desire to record their appreciation of the wider interest in their work evidenced by the increased subscriptions of some organisations and subscriptions which have not previously assisted.
The financial position is, however, each year a source of anxiety to the Board, and, while every economy is used, the continual increase in prices of all supplies, surgical, medical and domestic, make it necessary to appeal for a wider sympathy and support throughout the area in which the work and usefulness of the hospital are so well known. The individual subscriptions are up last year, but the Board thinks there are many friends who might support them if the need of the hospital occurred to them.
There is a gratifying increase in the employees’ increase, but there are many factories and workshops still not represented in the list of subscribers.
Unfortunately, the collections from places of worship show a considerable reduction, and while the Board recognises the many calls on everyone for other funds, the work of the hospital must go on, and is brought into so many homes that they appeal for this list to be increased on the next Hospital Sunday.
The substantial and gratifying increase in the Hospital Demonstration proceeds and Tag day preceding, coupled with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Flower Show, were very cheering to the Board and evidence of a vast amount of preliminary work by the committee arranging these affairs.
The proceeds from the Friendly and Trade Societies Annual Gala, the special Charity Match of the Saltaire Cricket Club, the donation from the Shipley Amateur Operatic Society, the grant from the Bradford Cricket League, all show that wider interest referred to earlier, and have enabled the Board to carry out much useful work..
There is a considerable deficit on the pension account, and it is not the intention of the Board to add to the list of pensioners until this balance can be satisfactorily dealt with.
A misunderstanding appears to exist in the minds of some patients admitted to the hospital on the Board’s scales of fees for paying patients. The free use of the hospital is limited by the Trust Deed to those who are not able to pay for the services so efficiently and willingly rendered by the hon. medical staff. When, on the recommendation of a member of the honorary medical staff, other cases are admitted, the Board’s scale is found to be most moderate; and in future the Board, having regard to the increasing cost and upkeep of the hospital, have decided to make no reductions or allowances whatever.

Ordered to Rest

Sir James Roberts, Bart., has been ordered by his medical adviser to take a complete rest, and he left his residence (Milner Field) on Wednesday morning. This is the first occasion in his long and arduous business career that Sir James has had to take a respite from commercial activity owing to health considerations.

Death from Sunstroke

A man about 57 years of age was found in Otley Road, Shipley, on Thursday afternoon in a state of collapse, due to sunstroke, and he was conveyed to Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital.
In his possession was a Workers’ Union contribution card, with the name “C Buck” on the cover, and a signet ring he was wearing bore the initials “C.B.” It afterwards transpired that the man was a paperhanger from Keighley, who had for some time been off work. Notwithstanding all that could be done for him the man passed away on Saturday afternoon, the body being subsequently removed to Keighley.

The Late Mr R J Grierson

News reached Shipley yesterday (Thursday) of the death after a long illness of Mr Robert J Grierson of 71 Oakland Avenue, Metheun, Essex County, Mass., USA and formerly of Saltaire.
According to a report in an American newspaper – “He was born in England, October 13th 1849, but had resided in Methuen for about 25 years. He was employed as a carpenter up to about five years ago, when he retired. He was a member of the Loyal Victoria Lodge I.O.O.F., M.U. Those who survive are a wife, Ruth, daughters, Mrs Samuel Foss, Mrs David Fortune, Mrs Harold Knapton and Mrs Linda and Edna; sons James of Connecticut, Harry of South Windham, Me., and Ernest of Boston.”
We may add that for some years Mr Grierson was employed as a carpenter by the Saltaire firm, and he did work repairing to the cottage property. 

(Colin’s note – In 1891 Robert John Grierson lived with his wife, four sons and two daughters at 2 Bath Buildings (now demolished) in Saltaire. He married Ruth Beckwith 12 December 1874 at Bradford Cathedral. The family left for America around 1893. Robert and John had three daughters born in America.)

Interment

Hirst Wood Cemetery – 7 August 1916
Alice May Scarfe aged 32 of 70 George Street, Saltaire.

(Colin’s note – Alice May Scholefield married Herbert Scarfe 23 September 1909 St Pauls Shipley. Herbert worked as an overlooker.)

Saltaire War Diary: 18 August 1916

Sample advertisement

Transcript: Shipley and District Hospital Demonstration Committee
OPEN AIR CONCERT in Shipley Park (kindly lent by Sir James Roberts) on SUNDAY, AUG. 27th at 2.45 p.m. In connection with the above, a PUBLIC REHEARSAL will be held at Musical Union Rooms, Commercial Street
On THURSDAY, AUGUST 24th, at 8.0 p.m.
CHORUSES- "And the Glory," "O Father, whose Almighty Power," "Hallelujah."
ORCHESTRA BAND - Conductor, Mr W Sutcliffe
ALL SINGERS ARE HEARTILY INVITED

Hospital Demonstration

For the fifth year in succession there is to be held a demonstration on behalf of the local hospitals. A procession comprising the local Volunteers Corps, Church Lads Brigades, Boy Scouts, Scholars and Teachers of the various Sunday Schools will parade the principal streets on their way to Saltaire Park.
The demonstration, we may add is arranged by no particular creed, or social or political organisation. It originated in a somewhat remarkable manner. A certain townsman some five years ago, had a son treated in the Saltaire Hospital, and so grateful was he by this excellent treatment his son had received that he determined to demonstrate his gratitude in a practical way. The result is seen in this annual effort on behalf of the hospitals. Since the initiation of the movement in 1911 over £200 has been raised, and last year no less a sum than £115 was made by the Saturday and Sunday events.
It has been arranged that the Windhill section shall meet at 2 o’clock in the Windhill Recreation Ground, whilst the Shipley section will meet at the same time in the Shipley Market Place. Others will join the procession en route. The Shipley Brass Band and the Canal Ironworks Brass Band will head the procession. In previous years excellent assistance has been rendered by the Salvation Army Band, at one time a highly efficient body of musicians which, however has lost many of its members as the result of the nation’s call.
Councillor Thomas Hill (Chairman of the District Council) will preside over proceedings in the park. The Chairman of the Committee which has the affair in hand is Councillor J Waugh; the secretary, Mr D B Chadwick of Westgate, who’s assistant is Mr W Robinson, whilst the treasurer is Mr Tom Kendall.
In the event of the weather being unsuitable the demonstration will be held in the Victoria Hall.

Cricket Apology

A fortnight ago we commented in our Editorial Notes on the fact that Mr J J Booth, president of the Bradford Cricket League, was refused admission to the pavilion at Saltaire Park on the occasion of the match between Saltaire and Idle teams, and after pointing out what wonderful things he had done for England’s national game we declared that he not only deserved courteous treatment, but also to be done great honour.
Mr Booth has now received a letter from Mr F Atkinson, secretary of the Saltaire Club, giving an explanation and expressing profound regret of the occurrence. In his reply, Mr Booth assures the club that he accepts the explanation, and that so far as he is concerned, the matter is now at an end.

A Little Hero Complimented           

An inquest was held at the Saltaire Institute on Friday afternoon by Mr E W Norris (Deputy District Coroner) and a jury of which the foreman was Mr John Blackwell, 6 Avondale Road, with respect to the death by drowning of a schoolboy named William Henry Farnell, 12 years of age the son of Police Constable Farnell of 20 Rhodes Street.
From the evidence of several witnesses who were called it appeared that on the previous afternoon, the deceased went to bathe in the River Aire just below Lumb Hirst Mill in Saltaire. He was accompanied to the spot by a companion named Lawrence Atkinson of 7 Bromley Road Shipley, who however did not go into the water.
Soon after entering the water, Farnell found himself in difficulties, he having got into a hole in the river bed, and shouted for help. Atkinson and a number of other young boys who were now playing in the vicinity heard the shouting and naturally rushed to the bank. One of them named Leavens Park rushed into the water and reached the deceased with his face downwards in the water, he got hold of him and did his utmost to keep his head above the surface of the water.
Although only ten years old, this young boy, Park, whose home is at 74 George Street, Saltaire, was successful in bringing Farnell in an unconscious condition to the edge of the water. At this point a man named John Snowden, a herbalist of 25 Irvin Street, Bradford, came upon the scene, and assisted them to the bank. The little hero, Park, was none the worse for the experience, but Farnell succumbed, although artificial respiration was tried for an hour by Snowden.
The jury returned a verdict of “Accidentally Drowned.”
At the instance of the foreman of the jury, seconded by Mr W Thornton, a vote of condolence was passed to the parents of the boy Farrell, and the Coroner remarked that he would like to add that the small boy, Park, had acted with excellent common sense and a good deal of promptitious which might under other circumstances have been the means of saving life. The man, Snowden, added the Coroner, also deserves a word of commendation for the strong effort he put forth to save the deceased.
(Colin’s note – Leavens had an older brother, Thomas William Park, who lost his life in WW1.)

Russian Duchess to Visit Saltaire

H.I.H. the Grand Duchess George of Russia has promised to open the Patriotic Bazaar which is to be held at Victoria Hall, Saltaire, in the later part of September. It is hoped to raise by this enterprise £800 - £500 for a Y.M.C.A. Hut, and the balance for the local branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild.
Over 10,000 articles have already been dispatched by the branch to hospitals for the use of our wounded soldiers and it is hoped to be able to continue this good work during the winter months.

Saltaire War Diary: 25 August 1916

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Soldier Awarded

The Military Certificate of Merit for gallantry and devotion to duty in taking part in a dangerous raid at the Front in France on the night of June 29th, has been secured by Private Herbert Atkinson of Saltaire. 

Technical School Examinations

The following students at the Technical School were successful at the Royal Society of Arts Examinations:-
Wilson Bartle – French Stage II 2nd Class
Mary Gwendoline Thornton – Shorthand Stage II 1st Class
Edith Binns – Shorthand Stage II 2nd Class
Arthur G Lane – Bookkeeping Stage II 1st Class
George Read & Roy Knox – Bookkeeping Stage II 2nd Class

Shipley Corps

Company Orders for week ending Sunday September 3rd 1916
Saturday August 26
No Parade
Sunday August 27
Memorial Service at Primitive Methodist Church, Saltaire Road. Albert Road 10.00 am. Procession and Demonstration in Saltaire Park, Market Place 1.45pm
Monday August 28
Williamson Cup, Platoons No 1 and 2, Rifle Range 7.30pm
Tuesday August 29
Williamson Cup, Platoon 3, Rifle Range, 7.30pm
Wednesday August 30
Williamson Cup, all members, Rifle Range 7.45pm
Signallers Section, Albert Road 7.45pm
Military Council 8pm
Thursday August 31
Signallers Section, Albert Road 7.45pm
Platoons No 1 and 2, Albert Road 8pm
Recruits, Albert Road 8pm
Friday September 1
Signallers Section, Albert Road 7.45pm
Platoons No 3, Albert Road 8pm
Recruits, Albert Road 8pm
Saturday September 2
No Parade

By Order, F E Williamson Sub- Commander

Thanks

Mr and Mrs Farnell and family wish to thank all relations and friends for their kind expressions of sympathy in their recent sad bereavement, also for floral tributes – 20 Rhodes Street.

(Colin’s note – Helliwell Farnell 1848 – 1916)

Saltaire War Diary: 1 September 1916

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Memorial Service

A special service was held on Sunday, at the Primitive Methodist Chapel, in memory of three members of the congregation who have laid down their lives for their country. One of whom was Thomas Horsfall, from Saltaire, who was killed in action on July 1st.
The Shipley Volunteers band attended and so did the Saltaire Corps of Boy Scouts.

Hospital Sunday at Shipley

The fifth annual demonstration on behalf of the local hospitals took place on Sunday at Shipley. A procession, comprising the 3rd West Riding Volunteers (Shipley Company), Special Constables, Boy Scouts, and the scholars and teachers of the different Sunday schools in Shipley, Windhill and Saltaire, headed by the Shipley Brass Band and the Shipley Canal Ironworks Band.
They paraded through the principle thoroughfares of the town on their way to Saltaire Park, kindly placed at the disposal of the committee by Sir James Roberts Bart., where a sacred concert was given by a massed orchestra under the conductorship of Mr William Sutcliffe. Selections were also rendered by the Canal Ironworks Band, under the direction of Mr Handel Parker, and the Shipley Brass Band, under the conductorship of Mr P Ambler (formerly of the Black Dyke Band).
The proceedings were presided over by Mr Thomas Hill (Chairman of the District Council). £22 17s 3d was raised, and the “flag day” on Saturday brought in £38 8s 6d.
(Colin’s note – Total raised was £61 54s 9d, which is worth c£4,800 in 2016.) 

Saltaire Wedding

A large congregation assembled at the Saltaire Wesleyan Church on Saturday last at the wedding of the Rev. Francis B Hudson, Wesleyan Ministry of Ferryhill, County Durham, only son of Mr Frank Hudson of Frizinghall to Miss Elsie Mildred Bentley, fourth daughter of Mr Joseph Bentley, of Nab Wood, Shipley.
The ceremony was conducted by the Rev Levi James (Bingley) assisted by the Rev David Ashby. The bride was attired in a gown ivory crepe de chine trimmed with real Brussels lace and pearls. Her veil of Brussel net was caught up with orange blossom and pearls. She carried a bouquet of arum lilies and white heathers.
The bridesmaids were Miss May K Bentley and Miss Dora L Bentley (sisters of the bride), Miss Florence Hudson and Miss Aggie Hudson (sisters of the bridegroom), and Miss Mackintosh, of London (niece of the bride).
The bridegroom was attended by Mr Arthur Saville who acted as best man and Sergeant Chas J Wilkes. The bride was a member of the Bradford Festival Choral Society, and is well known in musical circles. After the ceremony a reception was held in the Metropole Hotel in Bradford and subsequently the newly married pair left for the Yorkshire Dales.
(Colin’s note – Joseph Bentley, father of the bride, was the managing director of the Metropole Hotel.) 

The “White Scourge”

The Rev. W Bowker, president of the Shipley and District Friendly Society and Trade Union Insurance Council, said at a meeting of that body on Tuesday, that recently he had been requested to visit certain persons suffering from tuberculosis.
At the first place he went to – namely in Hargreaves Square, Shipley – he found that the sufferer had been in the trenches for eight months. Strange to say that although he had been away so long he had not been missed. That showed what notice public bodies took of cases of that kind.
On visiting another case at Saltaire, he learnt that five up grown persons had died in the same house from tuberculosis since 1912. That showed the ravages of the “White Scourge” and the necessity for doing everything they could to wipe out the disease.

Interments

The Registrar of the Cemetery reported that there had been 22 internments (11 residents and 11 non-residents) during the month of August, making a total of 138 internments (53 residents and 85 non-residents) since the 1st April 1916.

Small Ad – For Sale

Singer’s Sewing Machine Cabinet and Table – nearly new, cheap – H Lamb, Gordon Terrace, 53 Bingley Road, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 8 September 1916

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Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital

At last week’s meeting of the Governors of the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital Mr B Allsop (chairman) presiding, Mr C Fry (clerk) reported there were 85 out-patients. The number of in-patients at the date of the last report was six; there had since been admitted 27, making a total of 33 of whom 26 had been discharged. There were now 13 in the hospital.
Amongst the donations was a gift of £75 from the Shipley and District Trades and Friendly Societies Gala Committee. In acknowledging this gift, the chairman said the donation was exceptionally satisfactory because the committee had not had a gala this year, and the amount had to be collected. The board felt that it was a very generous donation.
It was reported there no requisitions during the month, whereupon Councillor C E Learoyd suggested that a pair of white gloves should be given to the chairman (Laughter).

“Our Day”  

The British Red Cross Society and the Order of St John of Jerusalem will be holding an “Our Day” on Saturday 16th September. The aim is to help our sick and wounded soldiers at home and abroad.
Anyone desirous of helping please apply to – H Carr, Honorary Secretary, 60 George Street, Saltaire.

Soldier Wounded

Robert Lincoln Thorntonis amongst a list of wounded soldiers published in the Yorkshire Post dated Friday 8 September 1916.

Small Ad

Wanted – female assistant for bake house – Apply Wood, 57 Bingley Road, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 15 September 1916

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Harvest Festival

Harvest Festival services were held at the Saltaire Congregational Chapel, Victoria Road on Sunday, when the Reverend P Drummond Pringle (pastor) preached appropriate sermons to excellent congregations, both morning and evening. The interior of the church had been beautifully decorated. The collections amounted to over £7.

Workers Education Association

The Shipley Branch of the Workers’ Education Association concluded their summer programme on Saturday with a ramble and lecture on “Nature Study and Bird Lore”. A party of about forty members, including Sir Ellis Denby, Mr W P Winter, the Reverend James Jack, Mr J Huddlestone, Mr Bower, Mr Lightowler, and Mr T B Knox (secretary), met on the bridge at Saltaire at 2.30.
Mr Parkin (president of the Ornithological and Vertebrate Section of the Yorkshire Naturalists’ Society) was the guide and lecturer. Proceeding to the triangular patch of rhododendron, at the Saltaire entrance to the Carriage Drive, the lecturer referred to the migratory habits of birds, and pointed that this patch was a resting place for the wagtails on their return journey in the springtime.
Mr Parkin reminded his audience that the section of woodland from Saltaire to the Glen was the most prolific in bird life of any district with which he was acquainted. He further pointed out that the enclosed woods and shrubberies led to increased bird life, because of the protection it afforded them.
Mr Winter, who is science master at the Shipley Technical Schools, added to the interest of the ramble by explaining specimens of plant life found on the journey.

Saltaire Technical School

The classes of the Saltaire Technical School will be re-opened on Monday next, and all youths, young men and women who are able to attend should do so and thus prepare themselves to the fullest extent for the duties which they will later be called upon to undertake.
Arrangements have been made for the training of workers in a great variety of crafts in the textile industry, and men and women engaged in many branches of commercial work. This development will enable many students to take up the study especially suitable to their needs, at a lower fee than in previous sessions, and the Education Committee commend the development as an important one in the interests of students.

Death

Rhodes – Thomas Anderson Rhodes, the beloved and only son of Thomas and Winifred Mary Rhodes, aged 6 years, died September 8th, at 14 Katherine Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 22 September 1916

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Soldier’s Death

Arthur Willie Keighley, of 49 Thompson Street Shipley died in the Military Hospital at York on Sunday. The deceased attested under the Derby scheme about 12 months ago, and joined the Northumberland Fusiliers nearly a month ago.
The circumstances of Private Keighley’s death was the subject of a coroner’s inquiry at York on Tuesday.
His widow, Annie, was the first to give evidence. She said that about a week after her husband reached Strensall Camp she received a telegram saying he was ill, and asking her to go and see him. He told her he twice reported “sick” and had been told to “get on” and he gave her to understand that he had been neglected.
Capt. Russell, the deceased’s company officer, said Keighley first reported sick on September 6th and up to 10th he was reported to the medical officer, given medicine and ordered for light duty. On the 11th he was admitted to the brigade hospital, and on the 14 removed to York.
When the witness received notice that Keighley’s food had to be altered, he sent him milk and eggs mixed up, soup, and milk puddings from the officer’s quarters. He never heard any of his subordinates insinuate that Keighley was not as ill as he said he was or that he was told to “get on” or anything of that sort. He had never been kept on parade when he had reported sick, and everything possible had been done for him.
Capt. Sheedy, R.A.M.C., doctor at the camp said Keighley was suffering from diarrhoea. He was never put on duty during his sickness.
Dr. Micklewaite, of the York Military Hospital said death was due to gastro-enteritis. From what he heard of the case, he was of the opinion that Keighley had received due and proper attention. In reply to Mrs. Keighley, Dr. Micklewaite said the York hospital was certainly different to that at the camp, and Keighley would naturally feel that he would be better looked after at York.
Mrs Keighley: He said it was the only kindness that had been shown him. Mrs. Keighley also asked if her husband had been marched while suffering from diarrhoea.  - Capt Russell: No.
Mrs Keighley: My husband was a truthful man and he told me he had.
The Coroner said that if Mrs. Keighley desired it, he would adjourn the inquiry but she did not think it necessary adding: “They cannot bring him back again.” Though she was not at all satisfied, she had no desire to continue the inquiry.
The jury returned a verdict of death from natural causes.

Shipley Wedding

The marriage took place at the Shipley Parish Church on Saturday of Mr John Bould, son of Mr George Bould, Saltaire and Miss Edwina, daughter of Mr W E Haley of Dene Bank, Dockfields, in Shipley. The bride who was given away by her father, wore a brown costume with hat to match. She was attended by Miss Alice Bould (sister of the bridegroom) and Miss Myra Haley (sister of the bride), who wore navy blue costumes. Police Sergeant Wigglesworth (uncle of the bride) acted as best man, and the officiating clergyman was the Rev W Bowker (curate). The bridegroom was formerly associated with the St Paul’s Boys Brigade, by the members of which he was greatly esteemed.

Result of Hospital Demonstration

Although the proceeds of the demonstration held in Saltaire Park a few weeks ago, have not amounted to the total expected, the actual receipts are gratifying, and the committee are to be heartily congratulated.
At a committee meeting held last Thursday evening, it was announced that the Sunday’s receipts totalled £25 3s 11d, the whole of which was handed over to the Sir Titus Salt Hospital. The receipts on Saturday amounted to no less than £38 14s 7d, but of this sum £19 8s 6d was paid out in expenses.
The hospital benefitted to the extent of £64 10s, therefore as a result of the two days efforts. Since the demonstration was inaugurated five years ago £269 19s 5d has been raised for the Saltaire Hospital, which is by no means a small achievement.

Saltaire War Diary: 29 September 1916

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Transcript:
THE INSTITUTE, SALTAIRE
SEPTEMBER 27th to 30th
PATRIOTIC BAZAAR
To provide a hut for the Y.M.C.A and funds for the Shipley branch of
Queen Mary's Needlework Guild

Shipley Military Tribunal

 The Shipley Military Tribunal met at Somerset House, on Friday evening to consider the cases of men who had previously been granted certificates of conditional exemption. A heavy list of cases was dealt with, the number of claims exceeding 70. Many of these were heard in private.
Mr C H Briggs, on behalf of Sir James Roberts, and representing the firm of Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd., appealed for 19 employees, the public being excluded during the hearing. The following were the decisions:-
Harry Procter, condensing overlooker – Dec 31st
Wilton Storey, weaving overlooker – Dec 31st
Harry Ingham, condensing overlooker – certificate withdrawn
Fred Ridgeway, apprentice woolsorter – certificate withdrawn
Thomas Priestley, yarn packer – Dec 31st
George Fawcett, spinning overlooker – Dec 31st
S Thornton, twisting overlooker – Dec 31st
Fred Irwin, weaving overlooker – certificate withdrawn
Fred Cooper, piece packer – Dec 31st
D Middleton, weaving and drawing overlooker – Dec 31st
A Jowett, weaving and drawing overlooker – Dec 31st
William Binns, weaving overlooker – Dec 31st
J Whitehead, stoker – adjourned to the next meeting of the Tribunal
J N Keighley, spinning overlooker – Dec 31st
W Bayliffe, spinning overlooker, reported to have received work at a Government works.
 Alfred Slingsby, spinning overlooker, Dec 31st
J H Walker, twisting overlooker, Dec 31st
Thomas Hewitt, spinning overlooker, Dec 31st
Ernest Platt, foreman of yarn department, Dec 31st

Royal Visitor at Saltaire

The Grand Duchess George of Russia was accorded the heartiest of receptions on her visit to Shipley on Wednesday. Her Imperial Highness came to the town for the purpose of opening the patriotic bazaar.
In honouring the town by her presence, Her Highness not only assisted the promoters of this praiseworthy effort towards the attainment of their two fold object – raising money for a Y.M.C.A. hut, and making sinews of war for the local branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild – but she gave much encouragement to that large band of women who gave much encouragement to that large band of women who have been engaged ever since the war began in voluntary work for our soldiers and sailors.

Saltaire Library

At the Saltaire Library during August 4,250 books were issued.

Marriage

25 September 1916 at St Peters Church in Shipley
Colin Holgate, aged 19, mill hand, married Elizabeth Alice Groncutt, aged 23. Both were living at 6 Higher School Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 6 October 1916

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Transcription:
JOHN KENDALL, Coal Factor, Exporter, Colliery Agent and General Canal Carrier, Hay and Straw Mechant, has commenced business on
HIS OWN ACCOUNT.
Give him a trial, and he will do his best to please you, both in quality and price.
Address - 82 Kirkgate, Shipley. Tele. 555

 

Syllabus 1916/17 Saltaire Institute Society

Presidents: Sir Ellis Denby and Lady Denby
Syllabus of Lectures, Concerts and Recitals on Wednesday Evenings at 8pm
Lecture Course (in the Victoria Hall)
Oct 11 – Mr John Foster Fraser – What I saw in Russia.
Oct 25 – Mr Alexander Watson – Miscellaneous and Dramatic Recitals.
Nov 8 – Mrs St Clair Stobart – My experiences with the Serbian Army in the Great Retreat
Nov 22 – Dr Houston Collinson, Miss A Wheatley Jackson, Mr Charlesworth George – Humorous Sketches on the Pianoforte and Vocal Items.
Dec 6 – Professor H Turner – A Voyage in Space
Jan 17 – Professor W Bateson – Heredity
Jan 31 – Mr Richard Kearton – Big Game in Africa.
Feb 14 – Miss Olga Haley, Mr Herbert Johnson and the Edgar Drake String Quartette – Chamber Concert.
Mar 14 – Concert or Lecture.
Study Course (in the Lecture Theatre)
Oct 18 – Mr W P Winter – Spiders
Nov 1 – Debate: Chairman – Sir Ellis Denby
Nov 15 – Professor Armitage – The Drift of the Culture of Ancient Egypt across the Whole World at about 100 BC.
Nov 29 – An evening with Dickens.
Jan 24 – Mr W Edwards – The Discoveries in Crete made by Sir E Evans.
Feb 7 – Debate: Chairman – J A Burton.
Feb 21 – Professor Garstang – Food and Fishery Investigations in the North Sea.
Mar 7 – Social and Dramatic Evening.

Terms for Full Membership - £1 1s, 18s 6d and 5s.
For privileges see Handbills and Prospectus.
Prices of Admission for Non-Members – 2s 6d, 1s 6d and 6d.
Early Application is requested.
The ballot for reserved seats will take place tonight (Friday) at the Institute at 9pm
Note – The 1s 6d seats will be reserved for Mondays for the full series only.
Prospectus may be obtained at the Institute of from J Douglas Smith, Hon. Sec., The Grove, Moorhead, Shipley.   
 
Left for Scotland

Mr Wilfred Bayliffe has left the Shipley district to take up a post at Kilmarnock, Scotland. He has been closely associated with the Saltaire Congregational Church and Sunday school, and has acted as secretary of the Young Men’s Class. Other religious organisations have also had the advantage of his ready help and his services have been much appreciated.
As a member of the Shipley Distress Committee, he has rendered useful service, and he was a prominent official of the Shipley Sunday School Cricket League. About twelve months ago he joined the Shipley Branch of the Independent Labour Party, of which he was recently elected social secretary, and much was expected of him by local Socialists.
He is a son of Mr Fred Bayliffe, the esteemed secretary of the Shipley Liberal Association.  

Breach of Lighting Order

Thomas Kendall, fish frier, Victoria Road, Saltaire, was summoned at the Bradford West Riding Court for a breach of the Lighting Order.
The defendant said he was sorry for what occurred. His little boy had been suffering from whooping cough, and on the night when the offence was committed was in bed. Defendant and his wife while sitting in the house, heard the lad coughing, and his wife hurried upstairs to give the child a drink, never thinking about the blind not being drawn. There was a knock at the door and defendant was much surprised on opening it to find that a policeman was there.
No complaints of any description had ever been made against them before.
Mr Cragg: Did you give that explanation to the constable?
The defendant: Yes
The Chairman (Dr Ellis): It is a serious offence, but the Bench are disposed to accept your statement, and you will be fined 10s.

Small Ad

For Sale – Special offer of four April hatched 1916 Black Minorca Cockerels, hatched from eggs costing 10s 6d, sitting, cheap – Apply 14 Albert Road, Saltaire.
(Colin’s note – renumbered to 27 in 1928. Home to Fred Greetham and his wife, Annie Louise, from 1915 to 1929.)

Saltaire War Diary: 13 October 1916

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Passing of a Saltaire Tradesman

The death of Mr Briggs Feather, a well-known Saltaire tradesman, who died suddenly last week-end, came as a shock to a large circle of friends. For the greater part of his life, he had been associated with the Saltaire Road Wesleyan Church, and he, along with Mr J Speak were largely responsible for the resurrection of the little Mission at Baildon Green about 16 years ago.
The funeral took place on Tuesday at Nab Wood Cemetery, a short service being conducted at the Wesleyan Church prior to the internment. The officiating ministers were the Rev. T Ogden Taylor (former circuit minister at Shipley, and a personal friend of the deceased), and the Rev W B Mattinson (circuit minister).
In his address, Mr Taylor paid an eloquent tribute to the memory of Mr Feather, and reminded the congregation that he officiated at the funeral of the late Mr John Briggs (father of the deceased) and at the wedding of the deceased. He was also present at the baptism of the latter’s eldest child, took part in the wedding ceremony of the latter and officiated at the baptismal ceremony of the deceased’s grandchild.

The principal mourners were:-
Mrs Feather (widow),  Mr Frank Feather(son), Mr & Mrs H Dalby
Miss Olive Feather,  Mrs Lund,  Mr & Mrs J Hanson
Mr J Lund,  Miss Lund,  Mr & Mrs J Keighley
Mrs J Feather,  Mr P Feather,  Mr H K Feather
Mrs B Dennison,  Miss Whalley,  Mrs Mitchell
Mr & Mrs J Feather,  Mr & Mrs Edwin Ellis, Mr & Mrs J E Kay

Others present were:-
Mr W A Burrow,  Mr W A Denby,  Mr W E Metcalfe
Mr Jowett,  Mr W Holdsworth,  Mr W Smith
Mr A Raistrick,  Mr A Milton,  Mr J Speak
Mr G Bailey,  Mr J Haste,  Mr S Bairstow
Mr W Brigg,  Mr G W Briggs,  Mr J Smith
Mr J Wigglewsorth,  Mr Geo Morrell,  Mr A Dalby
Mr L Denison,  Mr H Batt,  Mr S Whittingham
Mr Thos Rhodes,  Mr & Mrs C Batty,  Mr Layfield
Mr Kennedy (Manchester)     Mrs Brayshaw,  Mr Ernest Stuart
Mr J Halliday,  Mr Enos Feather

The bearers were:-
Mr E Emmett, Mr H Whitfield, Mr Harry Batt, Mr Joe Haste, Mr Edward Earnshaw, Mrs Ernest Patchett.
Floral tributes were received from “The family,” Lady Denby, “The trustees of the Saltaire Wesleyan Church,” “Baildon Green Wesleyan Church, “and from numerous tradesmen and friends.

Lecture at Saltaire by Mr John Foster Fraser

The recently published announcement of lectures by the Saltaire Institute Society are diverse in character and the first, delivered at the Saltaire Institute on Wednesday evening by the famous traveller and author, Mr John Foster Fraser, was a fitting “send off” for the session. There was a large attendance and the chair was occupied by Sir Ellis Denby.
The chairman said that the second venture of the Saltaire Institute Society was already an assured and complete success. Thanks to the many patrons and subscribers, they were already well on their way towards covering their expenses for the whole of the session. As they were aware, the society was not out to make money, they were out for the purpose of giving their very best in the way of lectures to the public of Shipley.
The chairman was sure they would agree with him that they had made an excellent start this evening, in obtaining the services of Mr John Fraser. It was singularly appropriate coming as it did immediately after the visit of H.I.H The Grand Duchess George of Russia, that they should hear a lecture on the great country of Russia, our great ally.

Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital – Comforts Wanted

To the Editor of the “Express”
Sir, - We are again attending to wounded soldiers, and have at the moment eighteen in the hospital. They will greatly appreciate any comforts additional to the regulation diet, and any gifts of luxuries, money to buy cigarettes etc., or offers of motor drives may be made direct to the matron at the hospital.
When one remembers the generous response to my last appeal, which amply sufficed for that time, one knows that the present appeal to add to the pleasures of our brave boys during their convalescence will be readily answered.
Thanking you for your insertion. – Yours etc.
E Clifford Fry, Hon. Sec. Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital, October 10th.

Death

Heaton – On October 11th, 1916 at 16 Titus Street, John Heaton, in his 60th year. Interred at Nab Wood Cemetery on Friday the 15th.

Small Ad

Wanted, strong girl for the grocery business – Hunters, Titus Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 20 October 1916

Sample advertisement

Click on image to magnify

Wounded Soldiers Entertained

The Shipley Ladies’ Committee for Clothing Comforts for Soldiers and Sailors, of which Mrs C H Simmonds is chairwoman and Mrs J L Foy the energetic secretary, and whose headquarters are at the Saltaire Institute, have been prominently associated with the work of serving the soldiers since the commencement of the war.
Eventually they interested themselves on our prisoners of war, and evidence that their efforts have been immensely appreciated is found in abundance in the many letters which the secretary has received from time to time.
Their latest venture, if we may be allowed to use the term, was the entertainment of sixty wounded soldiers at the Saltaire Institute on Tuesday. The affair was one of the merrier and brightest of its kind held in this district. The expenses were entirely deferred by subscription raised by the committee itself, and members are deserving of the highest praise.
Forty of the guests hailed from the Field House hospital, and were accompanied by two of the nursing staff. Eighteen attended from the Salt’s Hospital, along with the matron, Miss Mitchell.
Prior to the tea, games and songs were indulged in, and many of the men found recreation in the billiard room, which had been kindly thrown open for the use of the honoured guests. The proceedings after the tea were obviously much to the liking of the men who showed their hearty approval of the concert programme in no mistaken fashion.
A feature was a monologue and ventriloquial sketch by Mr Arthur Feather, who has given nearly seven hundred entertainments before soldiers. Miss Wheatley Jackson, Mr Charles Simmonds and Mr Harold Illingworth contributed songs, Mr Joe Charlesworth recited and Miss Madge Illingworth gave exhibitions of dancing.
Some idea of the gratitude of the guests may be gathered from the following letter which was received by Mrs Foy on the day after the party:-
“Dear Madam, - On behalf of my comrades present at the Salt’s Hospital I wish to thank you and the ladies and gentlemen of Shipley who supplied such a glorious afternoon’s and evening’s entertainment for us yesterday. I think I can safely say it was a fine time – the finest we have spent since this terrible war started. The ladies and gentleman must have worked very hard to give us such a glorious day. When we leave Shipley to go back again to our duties and our comrades ask us where we stayed in “Blighty,” I am sure that none of us will be ashamed to say that one of the finest places in England was Shipley, - I remain, on behalf of the boys, yours sincerely, W Browfield.”
(Colin’s note – Miss Wheatley Jackson was the daughter of Wheatley Jackson. Her name was Mary Dorothy. She was born in Shipley in 1883, lived her whole life in Shipley, before dying a spinster 19 March 1962. She was buried in Hirst Wood Cemetery.) 

Annual Cricket Match

The annual charity match played at Saltaire Park a week or two ago resulted in the sum of £22 18s 4d being handed over to the Saltaire Hospital. The amount was somewhat less than the sum raised last year.

Sir James Roberts

Our readers will be pleased to hear that Sir James Roberts is improving in health. He is feeling better, he says, than he has felt for a long time. As regards the rumour that a number of Bradford gentlemen have bought the business and mills, as well as the village at Saltaire, Sir James says it has no foundation in fact.
Although he has had over fifty years of strenuous occupation in the worsted trade, he declares that it would be a great grief to him to sever his connection with the Saltaire firm. When he began his association with Saltaire Sir James had four sons, but now he has only one, and he has donned khaki; still there is no prospect of his selling out or closing down.

Workers Educational Association

A large gathering of the members and friends of the Shipley Branch of the Workers’ Educational Association, assembled at the Saltaire Institute on the occasion of the winter’s work.
Mr W Popplestone presided, and welcomed the visitors, and briefly explained the objects of the Association. Short addresses were given by Mr Joe Hudson and Mr G H Thomson (Leeds), the district organiser, Mr G D V Light (Bradford), and Councillor E Cowgill. The last named highly commended the work of the W. E. A., and spoke of the pleasure it gave him as chairman of the Libraries Committee to support the W.E.A. in the work they were doing.
A very highly appreciated musical programme was sustained by Miss Elsie Hill and Miss Florence Jowett, Mr D Oliver and Mr A Carpenter, the accompanist being Mr W Sutcliffe. Mr J Senior gave two recital which were must enjoyed.
The secretary (Mr T B Knox) gave an outline of upcoming work. He said the lectures included “Russia,” “Egypt,” “Music,” Astronomy,” “Nature Study,” “Education,” “Weather Lore,” “The National Insurance Act,” and “Tramway History.” Several of the lectures are to be illustrated. During the evening 15 members were added to the roll, which now numbers nearly 100 members, and 9 affiliated societies.

Invitation

The Shipley Golf Club extend a cordial invitation to the wounded soldiers at Saltaire Hospital to make use of the Moorhead links at any time when the weather is favourable.

Saltaire War Diary: 27 October 1916

Sample advertisement

Transcript:

Tommy: "The boys will have the best though they rough it in the trenches."
Chemist: "Quite so; our standard is the best."
Tommy: "Yes! the chapps insisted on my getting their things from Taylors as soon as I get back to Blighty."
Tommy's Needs. Whatever you get him - be sure it is good. The best way to be sure is to get it at Talors. You can Rely on TAYLORS DRUG CO. LTD. CHEMISTS
BRIGGATE SHIPLEY
Also at BRADFORD, LEEDS, KEIGHLEY, BINGLEY, etc.

Shipley Military Tribunal – Saltaire Firm Employees

The following were the decisions in the Salt’s cases:-
R Firth, mason, refused but not to be called up before Dec 1st
Alfred Bartie, steam fitter, Feb 28th
F H Reddy, warehouse clerk, Feb 28th
H Smith, pattern room man, Feb 28th
J Horsfall, warehouseman, Feb 28th
F Andrews, warehouse order clerk, Feb 28th 
J White, warehouseman, refused
S Riley, warehouseman, refused
Harry Firth, presser, refused
G B Armstrong, piece washer, Dec 31st
A E Ingham, yarn clerk, Dec 31st
Leonard Knowles, dye vessel minder, refused
S Walsh, scourer, adjourned 14 days
W Walker, dye vessel minder, refused
J F Baker, piece percher, Feb 28th
Tom Willis, weaving overlooker, Dec 31st
W Holroyd, weaving overlooker, Feb 28th
H Bradshaw, weaving overlooker, Feb 28th
T H Harniers, roving stock keeper, Dec 31st
J Collinson, worsted spinning overlooker, Dec 1st
D Armitage, cutter, Feb 28th
F Scarfe, worsted spinning overlooker, Dec 31st
J Iredale, soap boiler, March 31st
E Milner, worsted spinning overlooker, Feb 28th
S Mansfield, finisher, Feb 28th
H Poole, combing overlooker, Dec 31st
A F Stenhouse, coatings designer, Feb 28th

Serious Accident at Shipley

A serious accident occurred yesterday (Thursday) morning at the Airedale Mill Company’s works. A youth named Shirley Hartley (17) got both hands fast in a machine, and before he could be released his left hand had been taken off and his right arm up to his elbow.
The unfortunate youth is now lying at the Saltaire Hospital. His father was a market gardener, and for a long time lived at Little Beck Hall, where he died about nine years ago, leaving a wife and three children, of whom Shirley is the eldest. Mrs Hartley is the daughter of the late Ben Preston, the poet.

Miss Stell’s Concert

Shipley is at last beginning to assert itself as a town inclined for musical progressiveness, and with the greater need for funds for war and charitable work there have come the more frequent opportunities for musical undertakings.
Miss Stell, L.R. A. M., of Shipley, who is music mistress at Keighley Grammar School, had arranged a concert of unique interest and importance, on behalf of the local branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild and the Polish Fund.
The Saltaire Victoria Hall was, however, only moderately well filled when the concert opened. The artist were drawn from various quarters, and all, I think, fulfilled my expectations. They were; Soprano, Miss Alice Stell; contralto, Miss Lillie D Chipp; bass, Mr Charlesworth George; solo violin, Mr John Dunn; solo pianoforte, Miss Maud V Stell  (who promoted the concert as a whole); and elocutionist, Miss Ivy Chipp. Accompaniments were shared by Mr Albert Jowett, Mr Sam Midgeley and Miss Stell.
A noteworthy feature was the debut of Miss Alice Stell, a singer of whom there is every promise of a more than local success.
Saltaire Hospital Board

The Governors of Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital met on Wednesday evening. Mr B Allsop (chairman) presided and there were also present Mrs F Rhodes, Miss Dunn, Councillor C E Learoyd, Mr Walter Cryer, Mr E L Baumann, Mr T Kendall, Mr E C Fry (hon.sec.) and Mr Tom Laxton (clerk).
The report showed for the four weeks ended October 25th, the number of out-patients was 64. The number of in-patients at the date of the previous report was 10; there had since been admitted 41; 28 had been discharged, leaving in at the moment 23.
The Hon. Secretary reported that in response to an inquiry from the Advisory appointed by the War Office to inquire into the supply of nurses, they had stated that they had 24 beds, and that 23 were now occupied. 18 of the patients were soldiers. They had four nurses with certificates for three years training and the matron and the sister. The nurses were supplied under the arrangements with the North Bierley Board of Guardians.
The Chairman remarked that with only one bed at liberty they might be in a serious position unless they have made further provisions in case of an accident. The Board decided to arrange for a few extra beds in case of an emergency.
On the motion of Councillor Learoyd, seconded by the Chairman, it was decided that Mrs Hayes and Mrs Banks Fearnley be added to the Ladies Committee to attend to the comforts of the wounded soldiers.

The Salt Schools – Annual report of the Governors

The report in regard to the Boys High School says that it is a matter for satisfaction that, notwithstanding the present demand for the services of boys in the local industries and in the making of munitions, and the high wages paid, the number of boys in the school has been maintained at 128-130 throughout the year.
Further changes have been taken place in the staff, as assistant have joined His Majesty’s Forces. Once again, all the boys who were presented this year for the Oxford Local Examinations were successful. A fine spirit of industry prevailed among the boys during the year the year, and the general tome and discipline have been exceedingly good.

The year has been a good one, says the report of the Girls High School. The school has well maintained its numbers, and gives promise of continued increase. The health and attendance numbers of the girls have been very good, a considerable number of pupils having never been absent nor late throughout the year.
It is to be regretted, however, that so many girls leave school at the age of fourteen or fifteen years. Secondary schools are planned for pupils to remain up to sixteen years or older, and it would be well if parents realised that a Senior Oxford Local Certificate has a distinct value in the commercial as well as in the educational world. A mere smattering of French is of very little use, but girls who leave school out of the Upper Fifth Form have generally a fairly good knowledge of two foreign languages.

With the departure of large numbers of students to join His Majesty’s Forces, or engaged in the making of munitions, and the absence of many women students deterred by the lighting restrictions from leaving their houses in the evenings the attendances at the Technical School have been smaller then in several previous years.
The Governors cannot emphasise too strongly the need for Technical Education to youths under eighteen years of age, and to woman and girls, who desire to render service to their Country in the present national stress, as well as to worthily fill their place in the work of the Nation after the war. There is need for more wide spread knowledge and skill in our great industries, and for more extended use of Science in attempting the solution of industrial problems.
Whilst the effort and assistance which have been for several years past by employees of labour have been much appreciated, it is desirable that such examples be followed by other forms who have not hitherto produced facilities for the further education of their work people.

The Governors have pleasure in again congratulating the staff of the three colleges on the very successful work which they have accomplished during the year.

Soldier Wounded

Bombardier Fred Woodward, 20 Helen Street, Saltaire, has been wounded in the left arm. At the time he received the wound Woodward had been in France for nearly two years.

Saltaire War Diary: 3 November 1916

Sample advertisement:

Wounded Soldiers Entertained

A party of between fifty and sixty wounded soldiers was entertained at the Saltaire Congregational School, on Saturday afternoon and evening. The arrangements were carried out by the lady members of Shipley Golf Club, the host being Mr C H Tinsley. Mr J C H Ingham presided over the proceedings.
In presenting prizes to the men who were most successful in various competitions, Mr Tinsley said that the head of a Dutch firm with whom he and his partner did business had kindly offered a sum of money to be spent for the enjoyment of soldiers and they thought they could do no better than ask the ladies of Shipley Golf Club to spend it for them (applause).
After tea, a pleasant entertainment was given by Mrs Sands, Miss Bever, Miss Bower, Miss Davy, and Mr Stocks (humourist), Mr R A Millington being the accompanist.
Mr J W Sowden, in proposing a vote of thanks to Mr Tinsley, the ladies of the committee and the entertainers mentioned that Mr Tinsley was thoughtfully providing a present of postage stamps to the soldiers. One of the soldiers seconded the motion, which was carried with acclamation.

Lecture

Saltaire Institute Society, Wednesday, Nov 8th, 1916.
Mrs St Clair Stobart will deliver her thrilling and highly interesting lecture, illustrated with Lantern Slides entitled “My Experiences with the Serbian Army in the Great Retreat”.
Mrs Stobart has had an extensive experience in the Balkans, having been through the Balkan War.
Admission 2s 6d, 1s 6d and 6d (children under 16 half price). Tickets may be obtained and seats reserved at the Library Saltaire Institute.
Doors open 7.30, commence at 8 – S Martin, Deputy Honorary Secretary.

Disgraceful Conduct at Saltaire Reading Room

Councillor Cowgill has from time to time had considerable trouble at the Saltaire Reading Room – he had no complaints from Windhill – with some person or persons defacing the periodicals.
It was not long ago he had a batch of magazines brought before his notice in the office at Saltaire, and the writing which had been put upon the magazines was simply abominable. Before he was able to put the magazines back upon the table, he had to get a piece of India rubber and erase the stuff from the paper. It was not fit for any pure-minded or decent persons to see.
He had not mentioned the matter before, nor would he have done so now, but for the fact that the same thing had occurred again. It was no use providing literature if they were going to have evil minded people abusing such literature.

Marriage

28 October 1916 at St Paul’s Shipley
Edwin Gordon Thornton, an army clerk aged 24 of 68 Victoria Road in Saltaire, married Maud Dean, aged 24 of 96 Otley Road in Shipley.

28 October 1916 at St Peter’s Shipley
William Henry Metcalfe, a warehouseman aged 28 of 3 Daisy Place in Saltaire, married Annie Louisa Dinsdale of 16 Mary Street in Saltaire.

28 October at St Peter’s Shipley
Fred Johnson, a 48 year old widower who worked as an overlooker, of 19 Albert Terrace in Saltaire married Susannah Briggs of 39 Titus Street in Saltaire.

Silver Wedding

Haley – Preston. – At the Saltaire Wesleyan Church, October 30th 1891, James Haley of Shipley to Julia Preston of Saltaire.

Burial

St Pauls, 2 November 1916 - Pickles Bennett, aged 63, of 23 Ada Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 10 November 1916

Sample advertisement

OLD GOLD AND SILVER
Urgently Needed
BEST PRICE GIVEN
W. A. BUTLAND, Jeweller
KIRKGATE, SHIPLEY

Absentees in Court

At the Bradford West Riding Police Court on Monday, Garner Hartley, woolsorter, of 23 Rhodes Street, Saltaire and William Hodgson, clerk, of 27 Maddocks Street, Saltaire, were both fined 40s under the Military Service Act and remanded to await an escort.

Shipley Military Tribunal

A meeting of the Shipley Military Tribunal was held at Somerset House last Friday evening. The applications included the following from employees at Saltaire Mills:-

James Ince, described as a spinning overlooker, based his appeal on conscientious grounds, and added he was employed upon work of national importance. A previous application had been granted on business grounds. (Colin’s note see diary 21 July 1916). 
The Chairman: Have you been medically examined?
The applicant: No
The Chairman: You are still in the same occupation?
– Yes
Mr Burton: Although you are a conscientious objector, you will quite understand that the country has a claim now upon the services of every man of military age? – I would rather not discuss the war, Mr Burton.
Have you ever thought of the war at all? I do not wish to show any disrespect to your conscientious objections, but I want you to tell the tribunal how you can do your “bit” as the phrase it. Have you made any sacrifices?
– My life has been all sacrifice. It has never been anything else.
Mr Burton: But that does not answer my question. Have you thought of any way in which you can do your “bit” along with the millions of others who are now making sacrifices of all kinds in the trenches? – According to Tribunal’s decision on my last appeal, they decision was I was engaged upon work of national importance. Therefore as a conscientious objector I appeal on grounds of national importance.
I wish you would answer my question. I asked you to tell me of the way in which you can take your place alongside the thousands of men and woman throughout the United Kingdom, who are making sacrifices to for their country. Have you thought it worthwhile to consider the matter? – I stated on my last appeal that I did not.
Mr Burton: I will not trouble you anymore.
The Chairman: You state here one or two reasons, but the point is are you claiming on conscientious grounds, or on the occupation you are in? – I am claiming under the provisions of the Military Services Act. It distinctly states that a conscientious objector – Councillor Rhodes (interposing): We want an answer, yes or no. We get no nearer to an answer.
– Oh yes we do. Under the Military Service Act, and also on account of my work, which is of national importance I claim exemption. I am still in the same occupation for which I was given postponement before.
Mr Burton: It was granted upon the firm’s application – No it was not
Are you sure?
– My appeal was made under the Military Service Act.
Councillor Rhodes: What are you claiming on now? – As a conscientious objector, and on account of my work.
The Chairman: No that is not the point
Councillor Rhodes: You are wanting to appeal on both. Will you take one or the other?
– I am taking the Military Services Act.
Councillor Rhodes: You want both.
Mr Burton: I ask the Tribunal to study the natural interests in either case. Whether you claim as a conscientious objector, or as a being in a certified trade, it is immaterial. I put it to the Tribunal that the needs of the nation over-ride both.
Councillor Doyle (addressing the applicant): You have just said that when you before the Tribunal on the last occasion, they gave you exemption because they were engaged upon work of national importance.
– The applicant: Yes, I said that in my appeal.
Councillor Doyle: Then why have you found it necessary to do anything further than appeal on those grounds now?
– I have entered my appeal according to instruction, and it is left for you to judge. I have a few words to add, if you will allow me.
Mr Burton: Yes if you have any facts.
– I was going to say that since my last appeal I have had two managers from other firms, who have promised me exemption, and one has promised me 6s a week more.
Mr Burton: Promised you exemption! Will you give me the gentlemen’s name?
– I shall give you no names.
Mr Burton: In any case, I will make a note of it, and if it is required, will you substantiate that statement?
– Well, they promised to appeal (laughter).
Mr Burton: Ah! That is different. It is no use saying anything more. I wish you would try to be frank. Whether you are a conscientious objector and engaged in a reserved occupation or not, you are certainly not frank. I am not going to trouble you further. For you to say that someone has promised to get to you exempted, and then to say that someone has promised to appeal for you, are two different things.
The Chairman: Your appeal will be refused, but you will be granted a certificate for non-combatant service only.
The applicant intimated that he would appeal against the decision of the local Tribunal.

Application was made by the firm of Sir Titus Salt Bart, Sons and Co. Ltd., for Thomas Arthur Briggs, described as the foreman over the wool department. Mr Charles Briggs, father of Thomas and a manager at the Saltaire Mills made the application. He said that he had been unable to bring T. M. Briggs with him, as he was at the London Wool Sales. In this case exemption was asked for until Jan 1st.
He (Charles Briggs) had been instructed by Sir James Roberts to tell the Tribunal that firm had wired off to Port Elizabeth in South Africa to release T. M. Briggs, their wool buyer. The latter had received the wire and had replied that he would return to England at the earliest opportunity, which would not be before the end of the year. When this man arrived, Thomas Arthur Briggs would join the army. He would give the Tribunal an undertaking that his son should join up on January 1st.
Postponed to Dec 31st.

(Colin’s note – we have no record of whether Thomas joined the army or not.)

The decisions of other cases from workers at Saltaire Mills were as follows:-
Alfred Bartle, a plumber – adjourned a week
A Wigglesworth, warp twister – Feb 20th.

Shipley Women’s Liberal Association – Annual Meeting

The Honorary Mrs Oswald Partington was re-elected president. The following ladies were elected vice-presidents:-
Lady Byles, Lady Denby, Mrs P H Illingworth, Mrs Bever, Miss Gotthardt, Mrs T Hill, Mrs Ingham, Miss Ilingworth, Mrs F W T Newboult, Mrs G Sanctuary, Mrs Titus Salt, Mrs F Shaw, Mrs S Smith, Mrs J W Sowden, and Mrs Spencer.
The other officers elected were: Chairman, Mrs Ingham; honorary treasurer and honorary secretary, Miss Dunn, assisted by Miss L Sayner; honorary auditor Mr A Cousin; executive committee of 12 members; refreshment committee of 12 members; lecture committee of  6 members.

Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild

The Shipley branch of the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild have sent to the Saltaire Hospital gifts of sheets, pillow cases and slippers, and have also made the Shipley Soldiers and Sailors gifts of shirts, socks etc.
In aid of augmenting the fund for the District Councils Christmas parcels, a whist drive and bridge drive will be held at the West Ward Liberal Club, Saltaire, next Friday afternoon at 2.45, whilst on the following Wednesday, Nov 22nd, a bridge drive will be held at the Unionist Club, Shipley at 2.45. The proceeds of both events will be given to the above object. 

In Memoriam

Fieldhouse – In loving memory of Jabez Fieldhouse, who died Nov 6th 1914
Deeply regretted.
Days of sadness still come o’er us.
Hidden tears oftimes flow;
For memory keeps our dear one near us,
Although he died two years ago.
- From his wife and Family, 7 George Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 17 November 1916

Sample advertisement

Transcript: Special Offer for Soldiers
All Pocket Books and Wallets, 3/6 and over, purchased
by or for Soldiers and Sailors, are subject to 1d in the shilling discount at
J Walker's, Wainman Street, Shipley.
SEE OUR WINDOWS FOR POCKET BOOKS

Salt’s Hospital – Comforts for Wounded Soldiers

The Ladies’ Committee acknowledge with pleasure the substantial help accorded to provide funds for furnishing the wounded soldiers with comforts.
The workers at Saltaire Mills are coming forward handsomely, and the Committee are more than pleased to think that it is clear that our wounded men shall not go short if the workers can help it.
No one can say how long subscriptions to this cause may be required, and while the large donations are most welcome to build up a reserve, the committee would like to hint that regular small subscriptions given weekly are very acceptable.
The committee acknowledge with thanks the following gifts:
The Winders of Saltaire Mills (proceeds of social and dance), £8 7s 6d.
The Reelers and Hankers at Saltaire Mills, 18s.
The Weavers at Saltaire Mills, cakes, stamps, cigarettes.
Various gifts have been received, such as bacon, cakes, tinned fruits, cigarettes, books, magazines, money etc., from the following:
The Moravian Church, Rosse St. Sunday School, Baildon Masonic Lodge
Miss Payne Girls School, Mrs Brooks & Mrs Helliwell of Jane Street.
Mrs Harper & Mrs Clough, Mrs Smith, Mrs R Eccles
Mrs Swithenbank, Miss A Helliwell, Mrs Rand
Mrs Clapham, North Street, Baildon, Mrs Hardacre & Miss Pells of Baildon
Mrs Woodhead, Mrs Barraclough, Mrs Kitchen
Mrs Walker, Mrs Parker, Mrs Oates
Mrs Tillotson, Miss Booth, Mr Burton
Master Jeffrey Fry, Miss Marjory Fox, Mrs Dennison, Unionist Club
Mrs Illingworth, Mr Coultice, Mrs Holliday
Mrs Tempest, Mrs Oddy, Mrs Boardman
Mrs W Illingworth, Mrs Ackernley, Mrs Boyce
Mrs McHarg, Mrs Taylor, Mrs Briggs
Mrs E Briggs, Mr M Bower, Mrs Ezra Illingworth
Mrs T J Hayes, Mrs Coulter, Mrs A Sowden
Mrs Walker, Mrs Rand, Mrs Wolmersley
Mrs Denby, Mrs Emmerson, Mrs Stork
Mrs Bradley, Mrs Tymms, Mrs Clifford Roberts
Mrs Ezra Naylor, Mrs Percy Metcalfe, Mrs Wilson Bibby
Miss Dracup

The managers of the Princes’ Hall has most kindly given a general invitation to the wounded soldiers to visit the hall any afternoon free of charge. This is much appreciated.
Mr Ed. Waddilove very generously sent tickets for the Lifeboat Matinee, which the boys thoroughly enjoyed.
Mr Bolton, of Victoria Road, has kindly lent a gramophone, so extra records would be very welcome.
As the committee can buy tobacco, etc., duty free from the Queen’s London Fund, small money subscriptions for this purpose are preferable to gifts. The boys appreciated the three walking sticks from Lady Denby.
A further list of subscriptions will appear next week.

Social and Dance

A successful social and dance was held in the Royal Café, Saltaire on Saturday last when a party of wounded soldiers were entertained to supper. The affair was arranged by a party of winders employed at Saltaire Mills.
During a short interval Miss Smith, of Windhill, gave a Highland song and dance and responded to an encore with a Dutch song and dance. Mr Slingsby’s band was in attendance. Mr Sedgwick and Mr Clifton officiated as M. C’s. There was an attendance of over 200. Sergeant Woolley, in moving a vote of thanks for the hospitality so kindly showed them, said that he and his pals had had a most enjoyable evening.
The proceeds which have been handed over to Shipley Soldiers Comfort Fund realised £8 7s 6d.

Culture of Ancient Egypt

An interesting lecture was delivered in the Lecture Theatre at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire, on Wednesday evening by Professor Armitage, who spoke upon the subject of “The impact of the Culture of Ancient Egypt across the whole world at about 1000 B.C.” The lecture was illustrated by a number of lantern slides.
The Rev P Drummond Pringle (pastor of the Saltaire Congregational Church) presided, and in introducing the lecturer, remarked that Professor Armitage came fully equipped for giving the most complete information on the subject on which he was to lecture. He had made the subject a life-long study and he was well acquainted with the ground of that ancient civilisation.

Small Ad

Fires without wood or paper. Use the New Firelighter; will light hundreds of fires; never fails; price 1s each, - Agent, 2 Maddocks Street, Saltaire.

Thanks

Miss E Clegg and family wish to thank all friends for their floral tributes, and for their sympathy in their sad bereavement – 62 George Street, Saltaire.
(Colin’s note – this refers to the death of Harriet Clegg (nee Kaye) born 1844 died 1916. Her spinster daughter, Emily was born in 1873. Emily lived at 62 George Street until 1930, after which she lived in Shipley.)

In Memoriam

Wood – In ever loving memory of my dear mother, Mary Jane Wallace Wood, who died Nov, 18th, 1912.
The loving a friend may soon be forgotten,
Even that of a sister or brother,
But the love that shall live through the ages of time,
Is the sweet cherished love of a mother.
- Mr and Mrs Wallace Wood, 9 Rhodes Street, Saltaire.

(Colin’s note – Mary Jane Wallace Wood (nee Earnshaw) was born in 1863 and died in 1912. Her son Wallace Wood was born in 1890 and died in 1952. He lived at 9 Rhodes Street until 1921 after which he lived in Shipley.

Saltaire War Diary: 24 November 1916

Sample advertisement

Transcription: POSTING TIMES FOR PARCELS FOR THE BOYS OUT THERE. B.E. Forces, France & Belgium.
Letters, Dec. 16th. Parcels, Dec. 11th
Egyptian Ezpeditionary Forces.
Letters, Dec. 2nd. Parcels, Nov. 25th.
Salonika Forces.
Letters, Dec. 2nd. Parcels, Nov. 25th.
You'd better sent then that
CHEMICO BODY SHIELD NOW!
The best XMAS PRESENT you can buy.
WARMTH, COMFORT and PROTECTION.
Agent J. C. HAINSWORTH
20, KIRKGATE, SHIPLEY.

Soldier's Death

Private J Halliday of the West Yorks., and only son of Mr and Mrs W Halliday, of 19 Constance Street, Saltaire, has been killed in action by the bursting of a trench mortar shell. He enlisted in November 1914 and had been in France for 14 months. He was 18 years of age, and prior to the war was employed by Messrs. John Robson & Son Shipley.
In a letter to the parents, the Rev. R Whincup says: “I am so very sorry for you in your great affliction. But your boy has died a very honourable and gallant death, and this a very great thing to have done. The death of all these fine boys in the Bradford Territorials is such a trouble to me.”
Second-Lieutenant E D Stansfield writes:- “It has been a great shock to all of us in D Company, as he was extremely popular amongst all ranks, being recognised as a jolly good fellow, and a soldier who could invariably be relied on to do his duty whatever job was given to him. On behalf of all members of D Company I beg to offer you the most sincere sympathy in your sad bereavement.” 

Successful Concert

What was described as an Alfresco Entertainment was given at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire on Saturday, by a number of local young ladies for the benefit of the Shipley Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Christmas Parcel Fund.
The event was arranged by Miss Annie Cockshott, of 51 Barrett Street, and the high quality of the entertainment provided reflected great credit on her. Miss Cockshott is herself a vocalist, and she is enthusiastic in any work which has for its object the assistance of the dependents of soldiers and sailors. As a result of the effort the handsome sum of £13 10s. has been realised. A number of wounded soldiers from the Saltaire Hospital attended by invitation.
The chief artistes were Miss G Bennett, Miss Mary Hill, Mr A Garrad, Miss Mary Kendall, Miss K Wensworth, Miss E Park, Miss B Ball, Miss Mary Goulden, Miss Edna Pearson and Miss Cockshott. Mr A Dean was the accompanist.
(Colin’s note – Alice Cockshott was born 1900 in Shipley. She married Walter Bramham in 1923. Annie died in 1950 and Walter died in 1954. They lived all their lives in Shipley.)

Popular Saltaire Huntsman

A few days ago, Mr John Lockwood, better known as “owd John” – reached his eightieth birthday, and in celebration of the event a suitable presentation has been made to him by those of his friends who, like him, are followers of the Airedale Beagles.
Mr Lockwood first followed hounds sixty-seven years ago in the Honley district, and has hunted regularly ever since. His acquaintances include all the masters and huntsmen within fifty years of Saltaire.
The old gentleman has been twice married, and each partner has borne him eight children, all of whom are still alive. His second wife had six children before her marriage to John.
 (Colin’s note – John Lockwood was born 13 November 1836. He married Ellen Schofield in 1857. Ellen died in 1875. John then married Hannah Buckley in 1878. John lived for a short while in George Street in Saltaire. He died in 1921 whilst living in Shipley.)

Marriages

18 November 1916 – St Pauls Shipley
Alfred Milton, aged 27, a wool sorter of 1 Dove Street, Saltaire married Margaret Walker, aged 26 of Shipley.

22 November 1916 – St Peters Shipley
Matthew Lambert, aged 41, a miner from Nottingham, married widower Betsy Lister (nee Garett), aged 39 of 38 Mary Street in Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 1 December 1916

Sample advertisement:

Transcription:
HOLMES' Grand Christmas Bazaar
of High-class and Distinctive Toys is now open.
Clockwork trains, Meccano and Building Outfits, Soldiers, Forts and Guns, Entrenchments and Dug-outs, Mechanical Toys, Beautiful French Dolls Dressed and Undressed, Dolls' Houses, Furniture and Cots, Dolls' Lingerie and Trousseau Sets, Dolls' Prams, Plush and Nursery Toys.
An early visit is respectfully invited. Parcels laid aside until required.
JOHN HOLMES & CO. (Ltd.), DARLEY STREET, BRADFORD.

Soldier’s Death

Gunner Herbert Cooper (18), younger son of Mr and Mrs Harry Cooper, of 1 Katherine Street, Saltaire has been killed in action in Salonika.
Herbert joined the forces on the 8th of April 1915, and he went to France in July of the same year. After a stay there of four months he went to the near East. Before entering the army he was serving an apprenticeship to a Bradford architect.

Soldier’s Merit

Private Sam Jeffrey, Bradford “Pals,” son of Mr and Mrs Henry Jeffrey of 14 Constance Street, Saltaire, has obtained the “Certificate of Merit”. It reads as follows:-
“For gallantry and devotion to duty on November 13th 1916. When a dug-out was blown in by shell-fire he voluntarily dug out the wounded, and helped in removing them at considerable risk to himself, owing to the heavy bombardment.”
Before joining the army he was employed as a gardener by Mr Hockley, of Nab Wood, Shipley, and previous to that he had worked for a considerable time at the Saltaire Mills. He is 36 years old. In his last letter home he said:-
“I am pleased to tell you that I have received the certificate of merit for helping to save wounded from a dug-out that had been blown in. I and a number of stretcher bearers were fastened in a deep dug out with six wounded men, and we had to dig ourselves out. We carried two of the wounded who had broken legs to a place of safety. It was very hot work at the time. I consider myself lucky to come out without a scratch.”

Saltaire Hospital

A meeting of the Governors of the Sir Titus Salt Charity was held on Wednesday, Mr B Allsop (chairman) presided. Others present were Mr Walker Cryer, Mr T Kendall, Councillor C E Learoyd, Mrs Rhodes, Miss Dunn and Mr Thos. Luxton (clerk).
The monthly report showed that there had been 77 out-patients. There were 23 in-patients at the beginning of the month; 29 had been admitted and 32 discharged, leaving 20 inmates at present.
The secretary (Mr E Clifford Fry) reported that a large number of articles had been received from Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild and from the British Red Cross Society.

“Dickens” Lecture at Saltaire

Under the auspices of the Study Course of the Saltaire Institute Society, a lecture was delivered at the Institute on Wednesday evening by Mr F J Fuller (headmaster of the Salt Boys’ High School), entitled “Charles Dickens.”

Great Loss to Shipley

The death took place on Thursday last of Mr William Fry, who for forty years, was chief librarian at the Saltaire Institute. Born in May 1837, he was in eightieth year, and not until less than three years ago did he fail to carry out his duties at the Saltaire Institute. He lost the sight of the left eye, and resigned his office, but in view of his long service and accumulated experience, he was given a position by the Shipley District Council as consulting librarian. In the meantime his strength had gradually failed and yesterday morning, about an hour after he had partaken of breakfast, he passed away.
Mr Fry was the son of Mr Humphrey Fry of Wellington (Somerset). He came first to Otley, where he was employed on the railway. There he was brought into association with Mr John Scriven, who pointed out to Mr Titus Salt the qualifications of Mr Fry for the management of the fine educational trust which was being established by Sir Titus Salt. From that time forward, Mr Fry was closely associated with all the educational affairs of Saltaire – the High schools, the Institute and the Technical School. For a considerable period he also discharged the secretarial duties of Sir Titus Salt’s Charity.
During comparative recent years, in which the management of educational affairs has been passing through various changes, there have been consequent alterations at Saltaire. For a time Mr Fry retained secretarial control at the High schools, then later the whole of the educational affairs of Saltaire passed into the hands of the Shipley Educational Committee, with Mr Popplestone as secretary and Director of Education. Mr Fry, however, continued to render useful service at the Institute.
Mr Fry married Miss Mary A Dunn, also of Wellington. There are five sons and two daughters. The eldest son, Mr Arthur Fry, is an artist in at Belfast; Mr Ernest Fry is in business in London; Dr Percy Fry is in practice at Sowerby Bridge; Mr Clifford Fry is secretary of Messrs John V Goodwin and Co., Bradford; and the Rev Cecil Fry is curate of Beeston (Notts.).
At the meeting of the Shipley Educational Committee on Tuesday, Councillor C E Learoyd (chairman), made a reference to the death of Mr William Fry. The deceased gentleman’s work had been the subject of satisfaction to those who had employed him in a public capacity. All were sorry he had been taken away even though he was ripe in years and full of honours. He moved that a letter of condolence be sent to the relatives. The members signified their approval of the resolution by rising in their places.
Mr B Allsop, chairman of the Governors of Sir Titus Salt’ Hospital alluded sympathetically at a meeting of that body on Wednesday night to the death of Mr William Fry, who was for many years secretary to the Governors. Although, he said, Mr Fry had reached a ripe age, the Governors, he was sure were all very sorry to learn of the death of an old servant who had done so much useful and conscientious work for the town for over forty years. The family, he was sure, would have the deep sympathy of every member of the Board.
Councillor E Cowgill (chairman) at the last meeting of the Libraries’ Committee, pointed out that Mr Fry had held a public position in the town for the past 44 years, and been in the service of the Council since 1902. He referred in appreciative terms of the way in which Mr Fry had served the town in various capacities, and he moved an instruction to the clerk to forward a resolution of sympathy with the family on the death of Mr Fry. The resolution was unanimously agreed to by the members signifying their by rising in their places.
The funeral took place at Nab Wood Cemetery, on Saturday afternoon. The service was conducted by the Rev P Drummond Pringle, pastor of the Saltaire Congregational Church.

The principal mourners were Mrs G L Armstrong and Miss Fry (daughters), Mr W Arthur Fry, Mr Ernest B Fry, Dr. Percy V Fry, Mr E Clifford Fry and the Rev G Cecil Fry (sons), Mr G L Armstrong (son in law), Mrs E C Fry (daughter in law), Mr Alfred Marshall (Otley), Miss Brearley (housekeeper), Nurse Henslaer, and Miss Bell (for many years chief assistant at the Shipley Libraries).

Saltaire Cricket Club

The annual general meeting of the Saltaire Cricket Club was held at the Victoria Hotel (the club’s headquarters) last Thursday evening. Mr J A Burton presided.
In his annual report, Mr Fred Atkinson (honorary secretary) said;-
As was the case last year, there was doubt as to whether cricket should be played or not. The Bradford League Committee unanimously decided to go on with it. Their reward has been duly acknowledged by the public, who have attended the matches in record numbers.
Our receipts this year are a record for the Club. On the 15th of July we had record gate for any one match, the opponents being Keighley. The total receipts (tax included) amounted to the sum of £489 0s 10d (worth c£36k in 2016). We have materially helped the country to the extent of £80 7s 4d, due of course to the entertainment tax. The profit on the year’s earnings is £12 12s 5d and we have a balance in hand of £39 2s 6d.
We had great hopes of lifting the cup this year, but once again our hopes were dashed. In the league we finished seventh; we played 20 matches of which 8 have been won, 6 lost and 6 drawn.
We all deeply regret the loss of one of our oldest members, namely J W Beaver, who was associated with the club for over 40 years, both as a groundsman and as a player. Another we deeply mourn for is Mr Naboth Firth’s son, Joe, who gave his life for his country. Joe was a very promising cricketer.
With regard to our charity cricket match and tag day, we were able to hand over to Sir Tutus Salt’s Hospital the sum of £22 10s 4d.
I think a word of special praise should be given to Mrs Joe Lamb, who has voluntarily looked after the pavilion all season.
Reference was also made to the fact that Turner Driver, an old member of the club, had been successful in obtaining the D.C.M.
The following officers were elected:-
President, Sir James Roberts; secretary, Mr Fred Atkinson; auditors Councillor T F Doyle and Mr Firth; committee, Messrs. E Butterfield (chairman), J Lamb, A Myers, H Noble, B Lambert, J Driver, H Hutton, R Gill, F Normington, J Halliday, E Lindley, W G Bateman, J Lockwood, A Milner, W B Keighley, B Riley, Schofield and Lupton.
The appointment of financial secretary was left with the committee.
 (Colin’s note – Joseph Firth was born 1896 in Shipley. He died in France 1 July 1916. His family lived at 2 Queens Road in Shipley.)

  Football

Woodend v Saltaire Albion
These two clubs met on Saturday last under very unfavourable conditions. Towards the finish the game became very rough, the referee having to administer several cautions. The two goalkeepers played very well, both doing some fine saving.  Kelcher, Smith and Parker were the pick of the winners, while Booth, Padgett and Horne played well for the losers. Score; Saltaire 5 goals; Woodend 2 goals.   

Death

Bairstow – October 15th, at Camden, New Jersey, Edmund Gordon, youngest son of John Bairstowand Elena Bairstow, formerly of Saltaire, aged 26.

Saltaire War Diary: 8 December 1916

Sample advertisement:

Transcription: Pullan's "The Shipley Drapers."
Are making a very fine display of
CHRISTMAS BLOUSES
Now the Moon is bright it will repay to walk along and view
OUR WINDOWS
Practically all our Blouses are made in Shipley; they are all roomy and well cut.
Commercial Street, SHIPLEY

Saltaire Hospital

Our wounded soldiers have spent a very pleasant week, having been entertained by the Congregational Church, War Service Club, Khaki Club, Pompoms Troupe, Saltaire Wesleyan Church (café chantant and entertainment) and the Wellfield Moravian (tea, supper and entertainment.)
Mr Buisson and Mrs Nicholson gave the boys a very enjoyable evening of music and readings at the hospital. 
We have received the following letter written by a wounded soldier at Saltaire Auxiliary War Hospital:

On behalf on my wounded comrades and myself I would like to thank the people of Shipley for the very great kindness they have shown for us in many ways. You may not think we appreciate your kindness in providing us with such splendid times as you have done, and are doing, but if you were to peep into our cupboards, when we speak among ourselves, you would realise how much you are doing for us, and be amply repaid.
No I won’t say repaid, for we can never repay you. Some if not all of you, have loved ones at the front doing their “bit,” and as I heard a lady say, you are trying to do your “bit.” But it is not a bit, ladies and gentleman, it is a very great lot.
When we boys have to go and take our places again in the fighting line, think of what a happy memory we shall take with us. Thinking and talking over the happy time we have had with you will help us to pass many a dreary hour. Many times I have heard my chums say, “If I got wounded again I would come to Shipley.” What greater proof than this could you all have of our appreciation and thanks? None, my friends, and wherever we go the memory of the good times and friends we have made will be carried with us.
There are many friends who have subscribed and supplied us with many dainties for our meals. To these, no mere words of ours can express our thanks. All have been very good to us in many ways, and my chums all wish me to say, “Thank God we are Englishmen.”
H Evans.

Comforts for Saltaire Soldiers

The sum of over £13 was raised for the Saltaire Congregational Church Soldiers and Sailors Sewing Party as the result of an entertainment organised by Miss Dracup and café held in the Sunday School in Victoria Road, Saltaire on Saturday evening.
Mr C H Briggs presided and the Rev P Drummond Pringle (pastor of the church) was amongst the assembly. A delightful programme was provided and it was greatly enjoyed.

A Voyage in Space

Professor Herbert Hall Turner, Savilian Professor of Astronomy at Oxford University, delivered an interesting lecture on Wednesday at the Victoria Hall, Saltaire, under the auspices of the Saltaire Institute Society. There was a large audience. Sir Ellis Denby occupied the chair.
Professor Turner conducted his audience on an imaginary journey in space, the means of travel being the telescope.
Death

Palliaser – On December 5th, at 3 Baker Street, Saltaire, Harry Palliaser, the beloved husband of Martha Hannah Palliaser, in his 52nd year. Funeral on Saturday next, December 9th, at Nab Wood Cemetery, leaving the above address at 2 O’clock prompt. Friends please accept this (the only) intimation.

Saltaire War Diary: 15 December 1916

Sample advertisement:

Transcription:
Children's Week at SOMERS'
Orders for Santa Claus must be given early
TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.
Soldiers from 1/- per Box Red Cross Waggons 3/6
Forts, Dolls, Eskimos, Teddy Bears, etc. etc.
Tel. 279. 42, Westgate, Shipley

Shipley Military Tribunal

A meeting of the Shipley Tribunal was held at Somerset House on Friday evening, Councillor Thomas Hill, (chairman), presided. The applications dealt with numbered fifty, which included 9 by the firm of Sir Titus Salt, Bart, Sons and Co. Ltd.
L Crossland, described as a painter, and employed by Sir Titus Salt, Bart., sought exemption. He said he would be 40 years of age this month, and explained that he was a member of the fire brigade. Before becoming a painter he was a warper.
Mr Burton: Are you a skilled warper now? – It is a few years since I was on the job.
The reason I asked is, because the time may come when a man who does know a trade such as you mention might be asked to take the place of a younger man, who was indispensable to the textile trade – I could take up warping again.
The Chairman: It would help the Tribunal if you could get work as a warp dresser, and then come here and give particulars of what you have done. For that purpose you will be put back until January 31st.
Councillor Doyle explained that the Tribunal desired him to replace a younger man for the army.
Mr Burton said: The real object was to liberate a younger man – Yes I see.
An enquiry at the employment bureau might help you, perhaps.
The Chairman: The point is to get a job where a younger man is liberated. If you can come back to the Tribunal with a satisfactory arrangement, the members will consider your case favourably.
The decisions in the other Saltaire Mills cases were; -
William Mills, maker up and packer, March 31st
Thomas Bancroft, turner, March 31st
Thomas Petty, grease extractor, March 31st
Herbert Speight, heald knitter, March 31st,
James Moir, piece passer, February 28th
James Sykes, assistant manager burling department, March 31st
A F Wilson, hydraulic packer, March 31st.

Treat To Wounded Soldiers

The wives and mothers of the men of the Shipley Division of the St John Ambulance Brigade, now serving their King and Country, were glad to do their “bit” by entertaining the wounded soldiers at present at the Saltaire Auxiliary War Hospital.
A splendid tea was provided, and was presided over by Mrs Bonner, followed by an enjoyable entertainment. Songs were rendered Mrs Weldon, Mrs Knox and Lieutenant Gross, who is leave recovering from his wounds, and at present a guest of Mr and Mrs Douglas of Church Lane. Mrs Dibbs played selections on the pianoforte; Miss Peggy Bonner was an efficient accompanist.
The Rev W Maynard, Dr Bonner, and Mr W E Sutcliffe did everything in their power to make the guests happy and comfortable. The convenient schoolroom was kindly lent for the occasion by the members of the Bethel Baptist Church. Mr and Mrs Gray (as caretakers) gave valuable help.

Salt’s Auxiliary War Hospital
(Report written by the Ladies Committee)

I wish that every mother in Shipley who has a wounded boy lying in some far away hospital could have the solace of knowing that her son was being as well cared for as the boys are cared for at Salt’s Auxiliary War Hospital.
We would like to acknowledge a very welcome addition to the hospital funds, a sum of £5 sent in by Mr Harry Laycock of The Grove, Moorhead who collected the sum from his friends.
The Commanding Officer of the Salvation Army (Adjutant Soper) left at the Salt’s Hospital today a basket of fine fresh eggs. We can only say we acknowledge with real feeling the significance of this very welcome gift. Every housekeeper knows that at present fresh eggs are a luxury, and every contributor may rest assured that the gift is fully appreciated.
Mrs Atkinson, of Robert Street in Windhill, and her friends, have sent in a present that contained a quantity of  Gillett razor blades and shaving sticks for all the boys – really a most welcome and practical idea.
Through the week our boys have been  well entertained by the Reelers of Saltaire Mill at The Café, Windhill, New Jerusalem Chapel and had a capital entertainment; Mr Walton, ventriloquist and Lyric Quartet. The Shipley Musical Union brought and fetched our lame boys, and their evening was a great pleasure.
We had from Miss Mitchell (matron) – who has voicing the wishes of the boys – a request for the loan of a small piano. If any lady or gentleman could lend such an instrument to us they would be conferring a great favour, and very largely contributing to the enjoyment of the boys.

Operation

Mr Jonas Dean, a well-known member of the Rosse Street Veterans Association, Shipley, has recently undergone a somewhat serious operation at the Saltaire Hospital. He is in the best of spirits, and his numerous friends will be pleased to hear that he is making satisfactory progress towards recovery.

Salt Schools

Professor Gilbert Murray, President of the Salt School for 1916, has recovered from his illness, and has fixed Monday evening, 8th January, 1917, for the delivery of his presidential address in the Victoria Hall, Saltaire.

District Insurance Committee

The monthly meeting of the committee was held on Thursday last, at the Institute, Saltaire under the presidency of Mr Jennings Alderson (chairman). It was remarked that the committee’s term of office would expire on 31st December, unless it was extended by the Commissioners. It was also reported that the application for sanatorium benefit to date were 203, and that 55 of the applicants had died, leaving 148 at present under treatment and supervision. During the month 65 applicants had been granted dispensary treatment and one hospital treatment. The grants for extra nourishment numbered 15. The business of the meeting was mainly formal, and there was no other item of public interest.

Inquest – Taxi-Cab Accident at Shipley

An inquiry was held on Monday afternoon at Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital, by E Norris (deputy coroner), in reference to the circumstances attending the death of James Emmott (77) of High Bank Cottages, Moorhead Lane in Shipley, who was knocked down by a taxi-cab on Friday evening, Dec 1st, and died at the hospital on Friday last. Mr A V Hammond represented the family of the deceased, and there was also present Inspector Foulkes.
Charlie Emmott, who became famous as a Rugby footballer, and who is now a well-known broker, residing at 8 Ostler Street, Shipley, gave evidence of identification, said that his father’s sight was good, but that he was rather deaf. For an old man, he was a good walker, and every Sunday walked to and from Morton.  In answer to question by Mr Hammond, witness said his father had enjoyed excellent health, and used to help him (witness) with his work.
James Herbert Halliday, of West Bank, The Grove, Moorhead, Shipley, stated that on the evening of Dec 1st he engaged a taxi-cab to take him to Bradford. Whilst travelling down Moorhead Lane at a rate of not more than eight miles an hour, he suddenly caught sight of Mr Emmott in front of the car. Before the driver could pull up the man was struck. Replying to questions by Mr Hammond, the witness stated that the shock was only slight. The man was unconscious when picked up.
Miss Hannah Mitchell, matron of the hospital, stated that when Mr Emmott was admitted he was suffering from concussion and from abrasions of the face and hands. Dr Sharpe, who attended to the patient, appeared to think that the injuries were scarcely sufficient to account for the man’s death, and that he would recovered had it not been for his great age. He never thoroughly regained consciousness.
Herbert Greenwood, 27, Ostler Road, Shipley who was about thirty yards higher up the road when the accident happened, also gave evidence.
Albert Fozzard of 9, Trafalgar Street, Bradford, the driver of the taxi-cab elected to give evidence. He was driving very carefully, he said, as the night was very dark, and inclined to be foggy. The Bradford regulations allowed head lamps to be used and he preferred to have them, but he had none on the night of the accident. He had sidelights. He was within seven or eight yards of Mr Emmott before he saw him. He seemed to them to be standing in the road, his attention attracted by a man with a flash-lamp higher up the road. He started to walk across towards the causeway, crossing the front of the car and he (witness) was unable to avoid a collision.
Replying to the Coroner, the witness said he had not time to sound his horn. In reply to Mr Hammond he said he considered Moorhead Lane a dangerous road on such a night.
The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death,” and exonerated the driver of the taxi-cab from blame.

Wanted

Smart Errand boy or Girl – Apply Jas. Smith and Sons, Gordon Terrace, Saltaire.

Marriage

9 Dec 1916 – St Pauls Church Shipley
Alfred Garner, 26, Cloth Finisher of 70 Saltaire Road married Beatrice Green, 23, of 23 Albert Road.
(Colin’s note – 23 Albert Road is now numbered 45; Beatrice had three brothers who served in WW1 – Albert, Charlie& Willie.) 

 In Memoriam

Harrison – In loving memory of Eliza Harrison, a devoted wife, and mother, who died December 11th, 1915.
 – From husband and daughter, 14, Titus Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 22 December 1916

Sample advertisement:

Salt’s Auxiliary War Hospital
Wounded Tommies in Clover

Some folk wish for things and think the things should come because they are wished for in a good cause; just as if the public ought to know instinctively. Other folk, more practical, ask with confidence for the things they want, knowing that they will come if the cause is only good enough.
For some time the boys had whispered amongst themselves that a piano would be a real boon and provide them with many hours diversion. These whisperings reached the ears of the matron (Miss Mitchell), who thereupon looked round for a suitable place in which to put one, when it came. This was practical forethought, for it would be useless asking for a piano and then finding it could not be housed.
A suitable place being found, the matter was then mentioned to the Editor of this journal, who simply wrote a paragraph saying that the loan of a piano would be very welcome. The very same day a considerable disturbance was heard on the stairs of the Salt Hospital, and after much tugging and heavy breathing the carriers put the piano in its place. It is all very easy. We decide a thing is needful or desirable, and mention it to the Editor of the “Express,” and our wants are quickly supplied.
Mrs Giles of 48 Victoria Road, Saltaire has lent us the wished-for instrument, and the Ladies’ Committee sincerely thank her on behalf of the boys, and hope her kindness will meet with its reward directly or indirectly in favours shown to her two soldier sons who are away.
Christmas holidays are close at hand and we are all engaged in supporting the traditions of the past, doing our best to make these days as bright as bright and as cheerful as we can. We may have meatless days, but we couldn’t think of “pudding less” Christmas days. Christmas puddings, had therefore, to be made, and during their preparation the boys were invited into the sacred precincts of the kitchen, each to give a stir for luck. Alas! Before he could be stopped one of them stirred the batter the wrong way, and quite a commotion ensued.
The Committee acknowledge with thanks the following:-
Miss Payne’s Class, Central Schools, various gifts.
Mr Metcalfe, Gordon Terrace, box of soap.
Mr Joseph Thorpe, 85 Bradford Road, cigarettes.
Windhill Congregational Primary Dept., fruit etc. and 10s.
Mrs Walker, Mrs Arthur Sowden, Miss Newhall, and Mrs Fox all gave cakes.
Lady Denby, two waistcoats.
Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild, four pairs socks.
Mrs Davy’s Working Party, six pair socks.
Mr Helliwell, 4 Jane Street, collected amongst fellow workers £1.
Mrs Wood, 25 Victoria Road, sent 10s 6d. contributed by the reelers of Saltaire Mills. These workers subscriptions are much appreciated.
Mrs Soyer, 13 Ashfield Road, sent three surgical mittens to be worn over splints, a most useful and acceptable gift for injured or wounded arms.
Other gifts were received from Mr Seeger, 10s; Mr Halliday, Mrs Boyce, Mrs Birbeck.

Music Exams

Leslie Vickerman and Joseph Smith, pupils of Miss Annie Sanctuary of Saltaire, were successful in passing first-class (primary division) at the examination of “The London College of Music” held recently in Bradford.

Concert Proceeds

The concert organised by Miss Maud V Stell, and given at Saltaire, on October 19th, realised the sum of £48, of which half has been handed to the Polish Victim’s Relief Fund, and half to the Queen Mary’s Needlework Guild.
(Colin’s note - £48 is worth c£3.8k in 2016.)

Marriage

St Peters Church Shipley 16 December 1916
Stanley Thornton, a textile overlooker aged 24 married Mary Ethel Ridgway, aged 23, both living at 15 Shirley Street in Saltaire.
(Colin’s note – Stanley was born 18 October 1892 in Stanley (near Wakefield). He died 1 May 1920 aged just 27. He was buried in St Pauls Churchyard.) 

Death

Clark – On Dec 13th, Mary Ann, of 39 Victoria Road, Saltaire. Interred at Undercliffe Cemetery.

In Memoriam

Crossley – In loving memory of our dear mother, Easter Crossley, who died Dec 19th 1915.

One Year has passed since that sad day,
When one we loved was called away;
God took her home, it was his will,
But in our hearts we love her still,
We often sit and think of her,
And think of how she died;
And wished we could have said good-bye
Before she closed her eyes.
- From her daughter and sons, 39 Dove Street, Saltaire.

Saltaire War Diary: 29 December 1916

Sample advertisement:

Click on image to magnify

Salt’s Auxiliary War Hospital
How Tommy Spent Christmas Day

Letter to the Shipley Times from an unknown soldier in Saltaire Hospital

“With thanks to the kind people of Saltaire and Shipley and the efforts of our Matron, Miss Mitchell, the hospital larder contained all the things to ensure a festive time for us. The rooms were tastefully decorated and everything done to make the place as bright, home-like and cheery as possible.
On Christmas Day one of the wards was converted into a dining room.  Beds were pushed aside and a long table ran down the centre of the room. Every seat was occupied as a message from the King was read by Dr. Sharpe, after which we all joined in singing the National Anthem.
With this flow of patriotism having subsided, the door was flung open a great roast turkey was laid before the Matron at the head of the table. With skill and dexterity she carved the Turkey, and the others that followed, to give us all an ample portion. Having vanquished the Turkey, next came the Plum Pudding. It entered in flaming glory, decked with holly. Then to finish off there was delicious trifle and crackers. We were then entertained by the Shipley Band, and the Salvation Army Band, both of who played music that we greatly appreciated.
Following a few hours spent in contemplative serenity on our beds, the ward served as concert room where the daughter and nieces of Councillor Rhodes entertained us with songs and carols.
Our festivities did not end on Christmas Day, we have since then been entertained and had supper at both the Rosse St Chapel and the Salvation Army Citadel.
We cannot thank the people of Saltaire & Shipley enough for the way they are looking afters us. One of the boys came in here weighing 5st 7lbs, and within six weeks he had gained 2st 6lbs.
We wish you all a happy New Year and a speedy return of your loved ones.”

A “Rum” Question

The monthly meeting of the Sir Titus Salt’s Hospital Board was held at the Hospital on Wednesday evening, Mr B Allsop (chairman) presiding and others present were Miss Dunn, Councillor C E Learoyd, Mrs Frances Lister, Mr Walker Cryer, Mr E L Baumann, Mr Clifford Fry (hon sec) and Mr Thomas Luxton (clerk).
It was stated in the monthly report that the number of out-patients at the last meeting was 56 and in-patients 20. There had since been admitted 22, making a total of 42, of whom 20 had been discharged, leaving 22 in hospital up to date.
There has been some difficulty in obtaining a sufficient quantity of sugar, and the members were advised to get in touch with the Royal Commission. Articles had been given to the Hospital as follows:-
The Windhill Spiritualist Church, rest chair
British Red Cross Society, 36 rugs, to be used in place of blankets
Mr Coulter, Nab Lodge, large turkey
Sir James Roberts, none couples of rabbits
Mrs Clifford Roberts, two fowls
A Large number of gifts had also been sent in, and a full list supplied to the Soldiers’ Comforts Sub-Committee.
Application was made by a ward maid for war bonus.
In the general accounts it was reported that the Hospital Sunday collections were:-
St Peter’s Church, £2 2s.
Providence Wesleyans, £2
Bethel Baptist Church, 11s
Rosse St. Baptist Church, 11s
Total £5 18s
From the following employees:-
T Webster and Co., £1
Sir Titus Salt Bart., Sons and Co. Ltd., £9 11s 2d
Messrs. Lee and Crabtree, £1 5s
Total £11s 16s 2d.
Other donations were:-
I.O.O.F. (M.U.), Shipley, £7 7s
Mrs A Northrop, £5
Cryer Bros., £1 1s
Total £13 8s.
There was a grand total of £31 2s 2d.
(Colin’s note - £31 is worth c£2.5k in 2016)

Miss Dunn pointed out that whilst the members of the Ladies Committee had decided not to provide a bottle of rum for the inmates of the hospital for Christmas Day, one had been secured.
The Chairman: Well, it is the usual thing.
Councillor Learoyd said the question was one of principal and if the Ladies’ Committee had agreed not to supply the rum, the officials of the hospital had no right to over-ride that decision.
Mr Baumann: But you would not spoil the Christmas dinner, would you?
Councillor Learoyd said it made no difference to the principle involved whether the puddings were spoiled or not. When the members of a committee had spent their time voluntarily in considering a question, their decision ought to be respected. It was not a matter of whether or not the supplying of rum was advisable or inadvisable, when the Board had said that rum should not be supplied, it should have never been supplied.
Mr Baumann said that rum was absolutely essential for Christmas puddings and mince pies, and no doubt the matron had thought the committee had overlooked the item.
Councillor Learoyd said in doing so on her own the matron would be doing so on her own responsibility, and the Board should have an explanation of the whole matter.
Mr Fry said that the explanation given to him was that Mrs Northrop had handed the matron £5 with the observation that £3 was to be placed in the hospital accounts, and the rest could be disposed of as she (the matron) thought fit. That being the case, the matron had bought a supply of rum. Mr Fry added that when the committee had decided not to supply the rum their ruling should have been obeyed.
The Chairman remarked that the matron could have obtained the rum in some other way. It was customary to supply rum every year.
Mr Baumann repeated that the rum was absolutely essential.
Councillor Learoyd protested that when the committee had decided against rum the officials had no business to run counter to their orders. He would refuse to sit on a committee if what was passed was not carried out.
Mr Baumann said that doubtless the matron thought the committee had overlooked the item.
Councillor Learoyd: She is not paid for thinking in that way. She is paid for doing as she is told.
Mr Baumann said the matron was not, and should not be, an automaton.
Mr Cryer said that if the matron had received the balance of the £5 referred to, to spend as she wished, she was quite in order in spending it as she had done.
Mr Baumann said he held no brief for the matron, but they would all agree that she filled the position splendidly. If they continued giving those little “pin-pricks,” they might be losing her someday, and then it would be up with the whole show.
Councillor Learoyd said that should not alter the question. The Ladies’ Committee had the right to be obeyed.
Mr Baumann: She could have kept the money.
Councillor Learoyd said if Mrs Northrop had given £5 on the stipulation that £2 of it might be used for some other purpose than given to the hospital funds, the amount should not have appeared in the accounts.
The Chairman said he did not exonerate the matron from blame. She should have carried through the decision of the Ladies Committee.
Mr Baumann: You must give her a little latitude.
Councillor Learoyd: I should not bother anymore
Mr Baumann said it would not look like Christmas without a drop of rum.
Councillor Learoyd: Then move a vote of censure upon the Ladies Committee
Mr Baumann: Very well, I will do; they deserve it.
Miss Dunn said that many of the wounded soldiers were mere boys.
Mr Baumann said the men in the trenches received half a tumblerful of rum every day, and the drop they would get in the hospital would not hurt them.
The Chairman said the rum was used for cooking purposes.
Mr Baumann observed that the Ladies should not have decided against supplying the rum.
Councillor Learoyd: In that case the Ladies Committee was wrong, and the matron was right (laughter).
Mr Cryer moved that the accounts be passed subject to the matron being invited to discuss the question with the Board at the close of the public business.
Mr Baumann said that the Ladies Committee had done wrong in prohibiting rum.
Councillor Learoyd: You have no power to censure people who do public work without being paid for their services.
The motion was seconded by Mr Lister, who remarked that if anyone ordered poison without authority they should pay for it (laughter).
The motion was carried, Councillor Learoyd and Mr Baumann being the only dissentients. 

Marriage

25th December 1916 St Peters Shipley
Joseph Watts, soldier aged 25, married Emma Hauxwell, aged 27, both of 29 Shirley Street in Shipley.

Death

Midgley – On December 23rd, 1916 at 12 Dove Street, Saltaire, Thomas aged 79 years; Interred at Nab Wood Cemetery, on Tuesday December 26th.