Extracts from
The
Wellington Journal
and
1912
relating to Broseley and District
Broseley
Local History Society
2004
27th January 1912
A
shocking burning fatality occurred on Thursday evening at Broseley. Agnes May
Hanley, aged two years and nine months, the daughter of Harry Hanley, a moulder
in the Coalbrookdale Works, was placed in the charge of a neighbour, Louisa
Williams, whilst the mother was at work in the pipe manufactory. About five o’clock
Mrs. Williams went out of her house and locked the door, leaving three children
inside, including Agnes, but when she returned in five minutes she saw through
the window the child Agnes in flames. She failed to unlock the door, and two
men with Harry Southern broke open the door, and brought the children out of
the house. Agnes was brought beyond recognition and expired shortly afterwards.
The boots of a 10 months-old baby were also burnt, but the daughter of Mrs.
Williams fortunately escaped injury.
The
inquest will be held today (Saturday).
3rd February 1912
THE
FUNERAL of Mr. J. C. Lister (only surviving son of the late Mr. J. C. W.
Lister) took place on Monday, the service being held at All Saints’ Church, the
rector (the Rev. A. C. Howell) conducting. Miss Hilda Watkis, L.R.A.M., played
Chopin’s and Beethoven’s “Funeral Marches,” and the hymn sung was “Jesu, lover
of my soul” (Mr. Lister’s favourite). The burial service was at the cemetery.
The mourners were Messrs. James Lister of
VICTORIA
INSTITUTE.— The annual meeting of members was held on Tuesday, Alderman Prestage
presiding. The accounts presented by the secretary were passed, showing a
balance in hand of £2 7s. 10d. The Trustees re-elected, as their representatives
on the Managing Committee, Messrs. J. Nicklin (chairman), H. E. Clark, W.
Francis, and A. Scott; while Messrs. H. H. Wase, A. Smith, and W. Edge were
re-elected as representatives of the members. Votes of thanks were passed to
Alderman Prestage for presiding, and to the honorary secretary (Mr. T. Jones)
for the manner in which he had carried out his duties.
3rd February 1912
NEW BROSELEY INDUSTRY,
PROPOSED BACON FACTORY.
A
well-attended meeting was held on Wednesday at
Captain
the Hon. George Forester presided, and said that it was very unfortunate that
Mr. Corner, the expert, had been taken ill, and was unable to attend. Mr.
Shuker and others ought to be congratulated on trying to do something to bring
some employment into the district. (Applause.) They all agreed that it was very
badly wanted, and no one would be more pleased than himself to see his native
town in a flourishing condition once more, and for that reason he told Mr.
Shuker that he would he pleased to preside that day. (Applause.) He thought that
Mr. Shuker, the organiser of the meeting, would be able to give them some
details as to what be proposed to do, and how be considered that a bacon
factory would pay and give employment, as these were the reasons for the
proposal to start a factory. Revival of rural home productions should be encouraged
by co-operative enterprise. They all knew that the two political parties were
quite agreed that to revive these things they must get more people back to the
land. He promised to do his best to help on the movement in any way he could.
(Applause.) With reference to the feeding of pigs, cottagers said that pigs
sold cheap, but to purchase the bacon it was a different tale. (Laughter.) With
reference to the methods to be adopted, they wanted small shareholders to bring
to the small investors, in order to give everyone an interest in the factory,
and if they did that he was certain it was the best way of making the thing
prosper. (Applause.)
Mr. S.
H. Shuker (secretary) then addressed the meeting prior to which he read a
telegram from Mr. Corner (expert) from London, stating that he much regretted being
too unwell to attend the meeting. He also read a letter from Sir C. S. Henry,
M.P., stating that when the matter assumed a concrete form he would be prepared
to give it his consideration. Mr. Beville Stanier, M.P., wrote stating that a
previous engagement at Shrewsbury prevented him from attending the meeting at
Broseley, but he hoped they would be able to start a bacon factory, for he was
sure it would, be of an immense amount of good to the farmers and also to the
consumers of bacon.— Mr. Thomas Parker, of Coalbrookdale, also wished the
venture a success.— Mr. Shuker went on to say that the reason for starting this
industry was the decline of other industries in the neighbour-hood, and also
the amount of unemployment. He was of opinion that there was no more important
question before the British public than that of the food supply of
Captain
Forester then proposed “That this meeting approves of a scheme for starting a
bacon factory for Broseley, and that a general committee be formed to obtain
the exact amount of support from farmers, small holders, and cottagers.”— Mr.
Harry Onions seconded the proposition, which Mr. A. W. Bishop supported, and it
was carried.
In
reply to Mr. T. Griffiths, Mr. Shuker said that the factory world employ about
32 hands.— Mr. Griffiths thought that that would not go very far to abolish
unemployment in Broseley. He asked if it was possible to raise 10,000 hogs to
run a factory.- Mr. Bishop said that it meant 200 pigs a. week.-Mr. Shuker
replied that it was in the power of the people to do so.
A
General Committee of 30 was found, who afterwards met, and appointed Mr. Shuker
as secretary.
3rd February 1912
CHILD BURNT TO DEATH.
A BROSELEY FATALITY.
On
Saturday at Broseley Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry into the death of
Agnes May Hanley, two years and nine months old, who died from burns received
the previous Thursday.
Harry
Hanley, father of deceased, stated that he lived at Legge’s Hill. The last time
he saw the child alive was early on Thursday, when he went to his employment.
She was in bed. The other child was ten months old. They were both in charge of
Louisa Williams, a neighbour, who looked after them every day whilst he and his
wife were at work. Witness returned from work at 4-30 p.m., and just after he
arrived a woman named Griffiths ran into his house and told him that he had
better go down to his children because one was on fire. He went at once with
his wife, and found deceased lying on the floor of the kitchen in Louisa
Williams’s house, still on fire. Two men, named Speke and Griffiths, were
attending to deceased. Dr. J. G. Boon was sent for, and promptly came, and the
child’s injuries were attended to. The children had been looked after by Miss
Williams for two months for 2s. 6d. a week. There was a fireguard in the house.
Louisa
Williams, single woman, Legge’s Hill, said that
The
Coroner— You are paid to look after these children, and you left them alone. Is
that a right thing to do?
Witness—
I am sorry I have ever had any-thing to do with the children.
The
Coroner— That is not the question, You had no right to have left them.
In
reply to the foreman, witness said that she had not been out before that day,
and she took the beer home.
William
Boden,
Mary
Pope, Legge’s Hill, widow, grandmother to deceased, said that she was called to
the house by Boden. She carried the child home, where it died the same evening.
Dr. J.
G. Boon, Broseley, stated that death was due to shock caused by the burns.
The
Coroner said that it was not a proper thing to do to leave young children in
the house by themselves where there was fire. Miss Williams should certainly
have got someone to keep an eye on them when she went out. There was no doubt
in his mind that this was an accident, contributed to to some extent by the
children being left alone in the house, He did not think there was any evidence
to say that there was a case of manslaughter.
The
verdict of the jury was that deceased died from burns accidentally received.
The
Coroner cautioned the witness Williams to be more careful in the future how she
looked after any children committed to her care.
17th February 1912
LICENSING SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before
Councillor J. H. A. Whitley (Mayor), Captain the Hon. Geo. Forester, Alderman
D. L. Prestage: Dr. G. D. Collins, Alderman J. Davies, Messrs. B. Maddox and W.
Roberts.
LICENSING
BUSINESS.— Mr. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’ clerk) read the annual report
of Superintendent Tait, which stated that during the year two licensed persons
had been proceeded against under the Food and Drugs Act, one was dismissed, and
one ordered to pay costs. With these exceptions the whole of the houses had
been conducted without complaint. The
STEALING BACON.— Louisa Williams, single woman, Broseley, was charged with stealing 2lb. of
bacon, value 1s. 6d., belonging to the Iron-Bridge and Coalbrookdale
Co-operative Society.- Walter Legge, manager of the branch shop at Broseley,
said that he missed a piece of bacon in the shop, and he went outside and asked
Williams if she had any bacon in her possession that she had not paid for…
17th February 1912
DETERMINED ATTITUDE.
Under
the auspices of the Shropshire Miners’, Engineers’, and Furnacemen’s Federation,
a mass meeting was held in the Oakengates Primitive Methodist Schoolroom on
Thursday’ evening. The official notice convening the meeting stated that the
business would be: “To make arrangements for giving notices on February 17th,
re minimum wage; to make any other arrangements in the event of a strike being
declared.” Copies of the following notice were distributed, and it was stated
that each miner in the Shropshire Federation would receive one for the purpose
of filling up and to hand in to-day (Saturday):— “I hereby tender 14 days’
notice to cease work, re minimum wage.” Mr. A. Hoggins (president of the
association) presided, and was supported by Mr. W. Latham (secretary) and Mr.
C. Matthews (treasurer).
The
Chairman said the notice convening the meeting fully explained its objects.
They had recently taken a ballot on the question it referred to, and he thought
they all knew exactly how they regarded it. He would now appeal to everyone who
voted in the ballot for a minimum wage to tender their notices on Saturday as a
further step towards the realisation of their wishes. They would admit that
they had been passing through a trying time, and had had a very complex question
to deal with. It was practically impossible to have a uniform wage throughout
the country owing to certain local circumstances being against it, but through
their leaders and the Miners Federation they were seeking to do their utmost to
obtain for them an irreducible minimum in every locality. The Shropshire
Federation, by an overwhelming majority, had already decided upon a minimum so
far as they were concerned. There must, at the present moment, be a great
burden on the minds of the men who had the welfare of the thousands of miners
at heart, and also sympathetic consideration for those who were dependent upon
the coal trade to continue their industries; because there could not be the
slightest doubt that the national strike would be a very serious thing for the
country if one had to take place. It would be so comprehensive that hardly
any-one in the land would not, in some measure, feel its effects. But the
miners had come to a point at which they could not draw back, and they must
boldly face the battle if one were forced upon them. They were an army of men
moving to effect industrial emancipation, and they would not cry “halt!” till
they got it. The local leaders had not been without care or thought in this
matter; and in urging the men to send in their notices on Saturday they had not
lost sight of the fact that something else would then have to be done. The
leaders did not ask the men to follow them blindly, and they would see that
some provision was made for them when the crucial moment came. He hoped they
would all nerve themselves for the conflict, and that when they met again it
would be to celebrate the achievement of a victory they had always had in view,
and a triumph in the purpose they had ever set before them. (Applause.)
Mr.
Latham then addressed the meeting. He said the man who was against the Miners’
Federation was against himself. They had never heard him say—nor had the possibility
ever appealed to him—that they were going to settle this great dispute without
a strike. The most optimistic among them were now also convinced that if it
were going to be settled at all it would have to be done with a strike, and to
his own mind settlements without a strike were hardly worth the paper they were
written on. (Hear, hear.) Everybody had been trying to avoid “a national
disaster.” Some said it would be “murderous,” an “appalling calamity.” In that
particular sense a good many had been murdered since he was a child—by bad ventilation,
insufficient timber, and the want of some protection that might have saved the
human race; and a good many had been murdered by being underfed, and men and
women had died broken hearted because the battle of life had been too hard.
(Hear, hear.) He was convinced that the miners were not getting their quid pro
quo—they were not getting sufficient out of their labour to keep body and soul
together. (Applause.) If the miners’ leaders were hob-nobbing with colliery
officials, then he could understand that the men would have some cause to fear;
but in this instance their leaders were actuated by a deep-rooted conviction
that the demand made for under-ground workers was a just and righteous one,
and, if the men would hold on like grim death, a battle would be fought in this
country which would end in making the century bright with the glory of
conquest. (Applause.) How did they stand that day? He had just come from the “seat
of war,” where it had been his honour and privilege to represent his own
county. Every stone had been turned to effect a settlement, but Northumberland
and
In some
cases a little had been taken off what the men originally demanded, but what
was to be given for
24th February 1912
DEATH
OF MR. W. POTTS.— On Friday last week Mr. William Potts (third and youngest son
of the late Mr. George Potts, solicitor, by his first marriage, and brother of
Mr. Edward Bagnall Potts, Bank House, who died in the month of October last),
passed away at his apartments High Street. The deceased gentleman, who was 69
years of age, had suffered from blindness for many years. He possessed a kind
and sympathetic nature, and was esteemed by all classes of society. The remains
of the deceased gentleman were quietly laid to rest the cemetery on Tuesday.
The service in the church (Mr. Milnes, lay reader, reader the lesson), and at
the grave-side was conducted by the Rev. A. C. Howell (rector). Mr. Milnes
played with feeling, “O Rest in the Lord,” as the cortege entered the church,
and a funeral march on leaving. In accordance with the wish of deceased the
funeral was of a simple and unostentatious character. As an evidence of respect
blinds were drawn and shops shuttered at nearly every place on route to the
place of interment. The mourners were Mr. F. H. Potts (brother), Dr. Collins
(brother—in—law), Mr. George Potts, and Mr. Robert Potts (nephews). Others
present included:— Mr. J. A. Downes, Alderman D, L. Prestage. Dr. Edwards,
Messrs. William Price, Ernest Price, P. H. Martin, John Pountney, and William
Francis. The Rev. R. de Ricci (rector of Jackfield) and the Rev. W. A. Terry
(vicar of Benthall) and Miss Allen (Benthall) were present at the church.
Beautiful wreaths were contributed by Mr. and Mrs. Allan McGregor, “Purnwurtsley,
Oxon,” “Bank House”. Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Heywood (Tickwood Hall, Much Wenlock),
and Mrs. Price and Sons.
2nd March 1912
INDUSTRY AT A STANDSTILL
The
strike of miners is now general through-out the Kingdom, among the last to come
out being the colliers employed by the Lilleshall Company in the Mid-Shropshire
Coalfield, whose notices expire at noon to-day (Saturday).
The
controversy with regard to the minimum wage took a new turn on Thursday owing
to a speech which Mr. Asquith addressed to the miners’ delegates at a meeting
at the Foreign Office. The Prime Minister announced to the miners that in the
opinion of the Government a case has been made out for ensuring to the
underground workers, with adequate safe-guards, a reasonable minimum wage. They
do not intend that the resistance of a minority of employers shall definitely
delay the attainment of this object. If it cannot be secured by agreement, it
will be secured by the Government “by every means which is necessary for its
effective attainment.” At the same time the Prime Minister urged the miners, if
the principle of the minimum wage were recognised; to allow a reasonable
latitude of discussion in regard to particular rates— that is to say, not to
adhere strictly to the schedule of minimum rates already put forward by them.
If the Government were to make themselves responsible in this matter, he said,
they must be allowed to discuss with the representatives of both sides the
question whether as regards any particular figure applied to any particular
area it was a reasonable figure.
There
have been numerous conferences during the week between the Government, coalowners,
and men, with a view to arriving at a settlement in the dispute, but last night
Mr. Asquith found it necessary to state in the House of Commons that the
conferences between the various parties had been broken off. He will make a
fuller statement on Monday.
The
Home Secretary, in reply to Mr. Kier Hardie in the House of Commons on Thursday,
said that troops would be sent to any place only on a requisition of the magistrates,
and every care would be taken that troops would net be sent until their
presence was absolutely necessary.
An
erroneous impression appears to have got about in some quarters to the effect that
the Territorial Force can be called upon for strike duty. This is not the case;
the Territorials cannot be utilised for such a purpose.
POSITION
IN
On
Thursday evening a mass meeting of miners was held in the Primitive Methodist
Schoolroom, Oakengates, under the auspices of the Shropshire Miners’, Surfacemen’s,
and Enginemen’s Federation. There was a very good attendance, the meeting being
called to consider the present situation. The chair was occupied by Mr. Charles
Matthews (treasurer), who referred to the great issues that were before the
country, and the efforts that were being made to secure the minimum wage for
miners in the country, to get which they would have to fight hard. They had a
just cause, and he hoped they would have success in their efforts to gain the
best advantages. — Mr. Alfred Hoggins (President of the Federation) apologised
for the absence of Mr. William Latham (agent), who was away in
This
decision will affect between 2,000 and 3,000 men in the county.
Several
industries in the immediate neighbourhood of Iron-Bridge will be closed during
the strike. Relief committees have been formed to alleviate the distress, which
is expected to be very acute.
The
MAYOR
OF
In view
of the strike, the Mayor of Shrewsbury (Major Wingfield) advises all consumers
of coal in the borough, whether for business or household purposes, to be as
economical as practicable. As there will probably be a rush for coal when the
strike ends, it may not be obtainable for many days after, and it is therefore
advisable to begin to economise at once. In this connection he also invites the
co-operation of all consumers of water and light to avoid waste of water, gas,
and electric light, and to be as economical with them as possible, and so
assist the Corporation and the Shrewsbury Gas Company to maintain their
supplies. Though, as he says, there is no immediate necessity to curtail any of
the supplies, a little saving, if generally adopted by all at once, may be
worth much in a month’s time.
Advice
of this character is equally applicable to all towns in the county, and coal
consumers in general should take to heart the words of the Mayor of Shrewsbury.
OVER A MILLION IDLE.
Yesterday
over a million colliery workmen were idle in
Northumberland
and
Lancashire
and
and
North Wales 15,161
__________
1,031,967
9th March 1912
SUFFERING AMONG THE POOR.
A week
has now passed since the coal strike became general, and there is no indication
of any appreciable progress towards peace. The miners’ executive and a committee
of the coal-owners have had numerous conferences with the Government, with, unfortunately,
no result. The majority of the owners agreed to the Government proposals, but
the men have definitely refused to entertain their suggestions.
A
general rise in the price of bread has been decided upon. Reports from various
parts of the country indicate that distress among the poor is increasing, and
there is a further large addition to the number of workers thrown out of
employment in other trades than the coal industry
THE POSITION LOCALLY.
Paralysing
as the general effects of the strike have been throughout the country, it would
still be too early to write of its more serious economic detriment to the
Apart
from the restricted train service and the local limitations, it cannot be said
that much inconvenience has yet been caused to the general public in
The
conduct of the
Passing
through the whole area affected by the strike between, Madeley Wood and
Owing
to shortage of fuel several furnaces at the Midland Carriage Works,
At
Oakengates the Snedshill Ironworks and Priorslee Steelworks have been closed
all the week, and both the furnaces at Priorslee are damped down. Some 600 or
700 men are thus affected in the iron and steel departments, and many in other
departments are also thrown out of work. At the New Yard Engineering Works at
A mass
meeting of miners was held in the Primitive Methodist Schoolroom, Oakengates,
on Monday, when Mr. A. Hoggins presided over a crowded attendance of miners
engaged in the Lilleshall Collieries and members of the Shropshire Federation.
A lengthy address was delivered by Mr. W. Latham (agent and secretary), who
passed in review the course of events up to the present crisis and gave a resume
of the proceedings and negotiations in London, already reported in the public
press, and urged the men to be loyal and true. It was decided to remain firm to
the rates of wages already agreed upon by the federation for the district, and
it was decided to transfer the money belonging to the union front the Post
Office to Lloyds Bank for the better convenience of carrying out their strike
pay.
The Royal
Oak Assembly Room, Madeley, was on Monday crowded with miners to hear addresses
from Mr. A. Hoggins (president of the Shropshire Miners’ Federation) and Mr. W.
Latham (miners’ agent). Mr. T. Tranter presided, and Mr. W. Instone (secretary)
also occupied a seat at the table. In the course of their addresses the
speakers explained that what they were asking for was 7s. a day for skilled
workmen, for all over 21 years of age, and for lads over 14.— Mr. Latham proposed
‘‘That this meeting approve of the conduct of the Miners’ Conference last week,
and pledges itself to stand by the resolution not to resume work unless the
minimum wage as laid down by the federation be conceded to the workers of the
Madeley Wood Colliery Company.— The motion was unanimously carried.
Another
meeting of miners was held at Madeley last night, addressed by Messrs. W.
Latham and Hoggins. Mr. Latham spoke in favour of the men keeping the furnaces
going, but the meeting decided not to go to work unless the proprietors
guaranteed the minimum.
The
Madeley Wood Co. yesterday gave the furnacemen fourteen days’ notice.
On
Tuesday a meeting, of local colliers belonging to the Miners’ Federation was
held at Hanwood, where they were addressed by Mr. W. Latham, the miners’ agent
for
On
Monday a meeting of the Joint Conciliation Board of the G.W. and L. and N.W.
Railway Companies was held at
Operations
at the brick and tile works in the Iron-Bridge district are practically suspended,
in fact a manager informed a JOURNAL representative that no more bricks will be
made till after the settlement of the strike. The Iron-Bridge Gas Company have
sufficient coal in stock to last six weeks, and there is also no likelihood of
a shortage of water, the Harrington Joint Water Committee having wisely
prepared for the strike.
In the
course of an address to a large company of confirmation candidates assembled in
St. Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, on Wednesday, the Bishop of Lichfield, referring
to the labour unrest, said that he did not know where the blame lay, he did not
pronounce who was to blame, but they could not help feeling at a time like this
that if all our people were Christians a section would not use the weapons they
were now using to injure their fellow creatures in order to secure things for
themselves which doubtless they believed to be right and just.
10th March 1912
OLD BAPTIST
CHURCH.— At a meeting of the Church on Monday the Pastor (Mr. J. Gilpin)
tendered his resignation of the pastorate, which was accepted.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:—Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
J. Nicklin, T. I. Griffiths, and A. A. Exley, with Messrs. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson
(surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (collector), and E. Abberley
(water inspector).—The Collector re-ported that there was an adverse balance
in, the two accounts of £40.— Mr. Oakes stated that the rate was coming in very
slowly— there appeared to be no money in the place. — There was a record list
of rate-defaulters, which the meeting decided to deal with at the next meeting—
The Collector added that the sum of £310 was yet to be collected.— The surveyor
presented his books, showing that his expenditure for the month amounted to
£50.— On the motion of Mr. Nicklin, it was decided to purchase a snowplough for
the town. The proposer pointed out the remarkable work that Lord Forester’s
plough had executed in removing the snow in the town. — Mr. E. Abberley
informed the meeting that all the water mains in the district were in good
working order, but he reported that all the water pipes at the isolation
hospital were frozen up. He was instructed to look into this matter.— Mr. Herbert
said that there was only one case of scarlet fever notified to him since the
last meeting. There had been one fatal case of phthisis.— The Clerk presented
his estimate of expenditure for the next 12 months, which the meeting
considered. The amount to be raised by a rate was £1,459, and it was decided,
on the motion of the Chairman, supported by Mr. Exley, to levy a general
district rate of 3s. in the pound, an increase of 2d.
A
SUPPER in connection with the United Football Club was held on Tuesday at the
Fox Room, when Dr. J. G. Boon presided. After the repast the usual toasts were
honoured, and these who took part in the “smoker” which followed were Messrs.
L. Dixon, W. Oakley, H. Southern, J. Quinn, H. Aston. F. Glover, E. S. White,
G. Gough, J. Edwards, W. Wilde, S. Tonkiss, and J. Evans.
DEATH
OF MR. T. JONES.- On Friday last week Mr. Thomas Jones suddenly passed away, in
his 58th year, at his residence, Wesley House,
16th March 1912
MEN
ANXIOUS TO RETURN TO WORK.
There
are indications of a restive spirit among the coal strikers, more especially
among the non-unionists, in some districts. In Scotland particularly the men
outside the union ranks are showing anxiety to return to the collieries, and at
two pits in Lanarkshire work was resumed on Thursday. A small pit near
The
Miners’ Federation announced on Thursday night that they had submitted to the
joint conference being held between Ministers, coal-owners, and miners,
resolutions accepting Mr. Asquith’s proposal for local negotiations on certain
points in the presence of “a neutral person” after the questions relating to the
schedule rates for coal-getters and the minimum rates for day men and boys had
been settled. It is believed that the conference may last several days yet.
OUTLOOK IN
There
is no perceptible change in the attitude of the
Some
men are working at the Kemberton Pits but simply for the purpose of getting
clod-coal to keep certain furnaces alive, and this has been sanctioned by the
local union. It is gratifying to find that the behaviour of the strikers
remains admirably peaceful.
Considerable
inconvenience has been experienced at
On
Wednesday a numerously-attended mass meeting of the Lilleshall Company’s miners
was held at Oakengates. Mr. C. Matthews (district treasurer) presided. He said
that they had done their first round, and had started upon the second, which
they looked like finishing, as he could not see that there was any alteration
in the position of affairs. He hoped that they would continue to be as
peaceable as hitherto. He criticised the appointment of special constables for
the district. Mr. A. Hoggins (president of the Shropshire Miners’ Federation)
gave a general survey of the situation. He said that the strike should not be
settled by Act of Parliament. He did not believe in compulsory arbitration, for
it would do away with their right to strike, and they would rather have a
peaceful settlement. A telegram was received from the agent (Mr. Wm. Latham),
who was in
A largely-attended
mass meeting of miners was held on Thursday at Madeley, which was presided over
by Mr. T. Tranter. Mr. A. Hoggins (president of the Shropshire Miners’
Association) addressed the meeting, and said that he hoped the negotiations in
A
further restricted train service at ordinary fares was brought into operation
on the Great Western Railway yesterday. The company also announce by
advertisement that their goods train service will be curtailed, and they will
be unable to accept certain classes of goods specified in the advertisement
until further notice.
16th March 1912
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Mr. J. H. A. Whitley
(mayor). Lord Forester, Captain G. Forester, Dr. G. D. Collins Messrs. W. J.
Legge, J. Davies, B. Maddox, and W. Roberts.
TOWN
COUNCILLOR FINED.— George Keay, licensed victualler, Broseley, and a member of
the Wenlock Town Council, was charged with omitting to cause three of his
horses to be sufficiently fed. Mr. H. R. Phillips (Shifnal) prosecuted, and Mr.
H. W. Hughes (
23rd March 1912
TOWN COUNCIL.—
WEDNESDAY. Present:— Councillor J. H. A. Whitley (mayor). Lord Forester, Aldermen
A. B. Dyas, W. J. Legge, D. L. Prestage, G. Lloyd, J. Davies, and T. Cooke,
Councillors W. Bishop, C. Edwards, G. Forester, W. G. Dyas. T. I. Griffiths, A.
A. Exley, W. J. Milner, T. Morris, G. D. Collins, R. Clarke, J. Nicklin, J.
Roberts, and Mr. P. H, Potts (town clerk).
THE
BROSELEY ROAD.— Alderman Dyas asked the clerk if he had heard anything
respecting the Iron-Bridge and Broseley roads_ — The Clerk said that he had
asked for a grant of £75 per mile to keep these roads in good repair, and the
county clerk had replied that he would duly submit their application to the
Roads and Bridges Committee.— Alderman Prestage said that the roads were in a
very bad state.
23rd March 1912
COAL
STRIKE. — In accordance with the recommendation of the Archbishop of Canterbury
and York, and by the expressed wish of the Bishop of Hereford, services of “humble
prayer and intercession” were held at both the morning and afternoon services.
These were conducted, and special sermons were preached by the Vicar (Rev. W..
A. Terry).
23rd March 1912
PARISH
CHURCH.- A handsome brass plate has been erected in the church to the memory of
Miss Hilda Devereux Hansen by her sister (Miss C. Hansen) and a few who were
very fond of her. The deceased lady, who died in May last, and lies buried in
the churchyard near her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Thursfield, late of
the Grange, Much Wenlock, was much beloved in the locality for her many good
works, and her loss has been keenly felt. The inscription of the brass tablet
is as follows:—“To the most loving memory of Lil, Hilda Devereux Hanson, who
fell asleep May 21st, 1911. She lived to help others, and was beloved by all
who knew her. Erected by a few who loved her very dearly. Many waters cannot
quench love, neither can the floods drown it.’”
23rd March 1912
P.S.A.—
The usual meeting was hold on Sunday in the Congregational Chapel. Mr. J. E.
Hartshorne (president) occupied the chair, and carried out the devotional part
of the service. There was a fairly good attendance. The Rev. I. Brentnall.
(Dawley) delivered an able address on “True Patriotism”, Miss Taylor
(Iron-Bridge) gave a fine exposition of the solos, “The Heavenly Song” and “Our
Blest Redeemer”. Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presided at the organ. A collection was
taken in aid of the National Brotherhood funds.
MEN’S
OWN.— On Sunday afternoon a service for men only was held in the
A CALL
TO PRAYER.— This was the heading of a notice, issued by the Rev. A. C. Howell
(rector) in reference to a service of intercession held in the
A
VESTRY
MEETING.— A general meeting of ratepayers was held in the Town Hall on Thursday
evening for the purpose of appointing churchwardens and auditors (in connection
with the Church and Town Hall accounts) and nominating overseers for the
ensuing year. The Rev. A. C. Howell (rector) occupied the chair. The Rector
again chose Dr. Collins as his warden, and on the proposition of Mr. A. E. Wiggins,
seconded by Mr. Arthur Smith, Mr. J. A. Downes were re-elected people’s warden.
Messrs. A. Scott and H. E. Clark were re-appointed as auditors. The following
were nominated as overseers, out of which number the magistrates will select
two to serve the office:— Messrs. E. S. White (Broseley). W. Meredith (Jackfield).
A. M. Williams (Broseley). W. H. Smith (Jackfield), W. Kenyon, (Broseley), and
W, E. Price (Jackfield). Rector proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the
churchwardens for the excellent services rendered by them during the past year,
which was seconded by Mr. H. E. Clark and carried nem. con. A vote of thanks
proposed by Mr. H. E. Clark, and seconded by Mr. A. E. Wiggins, was also given
to the churchwardens for the great improvement made in the churchyard by their
instructions and supervision. Mr. H. E. Clark proposed a vote of thanks to the
choirmaster (Mr. W. H. Griffiths) and choir for the services rendered by them
during the past year, which was seconded by Mr. E. Oakes, and carried
unanimously. A cordial vote of thanks passed to the auditors and overseers. The
Rector, in referring to the finances of the church, said that they were more
than paying their ordinary expenses, but there were certain matters requiring attention
which he considered should have been done years ago, but they required money.
He also spoke in favour of a more expeditious mode of delivering the mails to
Broseley and an earlier despatch, more particularly on Sundays, the present
method, he said, necessitating so much Sunday labour at the Post Office and
preventing the officials attending the church services. The matter was
discussed by Dr. Collins, Mr. H. E. Clark, and others, and the Rector was
instructed to write the usual authorities with a view of obtaining an earlier
despatch on Sundays.
23rd March 1912
MINIMUM
WAGE BILL INTRODUCED. The joint conferences between the coalowners and the
miners having failed to arrive at a settlement of the coal dispute. Mr. Asquith
last weekend promised to bring in a Minimum Wage Bill, and this he did on
Tuesday, the Bill passing its second reading on Thursday, as reported in the
proceedings of Parliament in another column.
The
Parliamentary Correspondent of “The Times”, commenting on the situation says:
The passage of the Bill is regarded as a fore-gone conclusion, but the Cabinet
have definitely resolved not to accept the amendments sought by the Miners’
Federation. They are determined to remain firm in this attitude, and this being
so it remains doubtful how far the miners will accept the measure, when passed,
as a settlement. Owing to the number of amendments which have been put down it
is thought likely that the Lords will not have the bill before them till
Monday. In Ministerial circles on Thursday evening, in view of the Cabinet’s
refusal to accept the miners’ amendments, the view was taken that while in some
districts a number of the men would probably begin to return to the pits as
soon as the Bill is passed a general resumption of work was not to be expected
until Easter.
It is
three weeks since the colliers laid down their tools, and consequently the
strike is having a very serious effect throughout the country as not only are
the miners at play, but many thousands of workers in other industries are
temporarily thrown out of employment through lack of coal, and the distress,
especially in the poorer quarters of the large towns, is very acute.
A
meeting of local miners was held at Oakengates on Monday. Mr. Alfred Hoggins
presided, and said that although victory seemed before them it would have been
more satisfactory to have secured it by other means than by Act of Parliament.
Both coalowners and men stood firm to their own views on the principle of the
recognition of the minimum wage, hence it had been found necessary for the
Government to step in. — Mr. William Latham (local agent) gave an exhaustive
review of the situation, and a report of the recent conferences and negotiations
that had taken place in London on the minimum wage question. He strongly resented
the charge that had been made against them that it was a selfish strike. He
asked, were not the coalowners selfish? The miners, in their desire to secure
justice, had shown that they were not selfish; if they had been those miners in
the English federated area (where the principle of the minimum wage had been
conceded) might have said that they would go to work and leave Wales and Scotland
to look after themselves, but they went in for a national settlement of the
question, and they had the sympathy of other trades unions with them, as was evidenced
by a letter (which he read to the meeting) conveying a resolution passed at a
meeting of the Wellington Branch of the Amalgamated Society of Railway
Servants, containing a resolution expressing the congratulations of the meeting
to the miners on the stand they had taken for the minimum wage, wishing them
every success in their efforts, and calling upon railway men to assist them in
their endeavours to establish the principle of a minimum wage. Mr. Latham also
spoke on the details of the minimum wage for the Shropshire coalfields,
particulars of which have already been published.— Reference was made to the
few men working at Madeley colliery in order to keep the Bliss’s Hill furnaces
going, and it was stated that an assurance had been given that no coal should
be raised at all for selling purposes. A resolution of confidence in the
federation leaders was passed, and Mr. Latham was thanked for his report.
In
order to restrict as far as possible the dislocation of traffic caused by the
strike, some of the large railway companies have been securing supplies of fuel
from provincial coal merchants, and substantial orders have been placed by one
company with Mr. Alfred Morris,
During
the present week the position in
The
conditions at Shrewsbury arising out of the coat strike have not up to the
present reached that stage which would warrant the Mayor of the Borough (Mayor
C.R.B. Wing-field) calling together his special committee to provide relief for
the poorer classes. There is still a fair stock of coal at the yards of the
coal merchants, but prices are prohibitive so far as many among the working
classes are concerned, and assistance in this direction has been forthcoming
from the Mayor and other local residents, who have generously sent into the
town large quantities of wood for free distribution. The Mayor himself has
forwarded nine loads, Mr. Sparrow (Albrighton Hall) two loads, Mr. C. E.
Jenkins (Cruckton) five loads, and Mr. H. F. Rogers (Oakley Manor) has placed
at the disposal of those who are in want of fuel two large piles of wood at
In many
districts no concerns have been harder hit than gasworks. At Madeley the inhabitants
have had to resort to primitive means of illumination, owing to the shortness
of coal at the gasworks, and smaller Gas Companies have been faced with a similar
difficulty. The gas consumers of
A
meeting of members of the Wellington Branch of the Amalgamated Society of
Rail-way Servants was held on Sunday, when the following resolution was
carried:— “That this meeting congratulates the miners in making such a stand
for the minimum wage, wishes them every success in their efforts, and calls
upon railwaymen to assist them in their en-deal ours to establish the
principle.” The resolution was read at a subsequent meeting of miners at
Oakengates, and was received with cheers.
If the
Madeley Wood Company blow out the Blists Hill Furnaces, as it is rumoured they
intend to do, many in the Madeley district will regret the coal strike, as it
is estimated that 250 hands will be thrown out of employment.
The
closing of ten brickworks in the Iron-Bridge district has added 500 people more
to the unemployed army, and many families are now feeling the effects of the
strike very acutely.
During
the existence of the strike only a few hands will be kept going at the
Jack-field Encaustic Tile Works, and it is very much feared that good orders
will be lost to the district. There is not the slightest doubt that there are
families who will be unable to recover themselves.
During
the week the pit-mounds in the Madeley district have been occupied with men,
women, and children, who toiled hard for the “slack”, which some years go
was discarded, and many are picking up a
good week’s wage by their sales, which are proving a god-send to the people.
SHOP LOOTING NEAR WREXHAM.
The
first story of shop-looting owing to the strike in the North Wales Coalfields
comes from Rhos, near Wrexham. The food carried off included 150lb. of sugar, a
large number of eggs, a quantity of bacon, flour, &c. There had been no
arrests up to the hour of going to press.
30th March 1912
THE
SCHOOL.— The children attending the Broseley Wood Infants’ School received the
prizes given by the Local Education Authority for regular attendance on
Thursday afternoon, ending the year ending December 31st last, the attendance
was very good, the high percentage of 93 for the whole year being attained.
Mrs. Prestage, who was accompanied by Alderman D. L. Prestage, and Miss
Collins, distributed the prizes, and afterwards addressed the children upon the
importance of regular attendance and punctuality, her remarks being listened to
with great attention. The children expressed their thanks by hearty clapping,
and the proceedings ended with the National Anthem. The first 13 children named
below made perfect attendances, and the other over, 95 per cent.:— Tom Watkins,
Harry Watkins, Ralph Green, Willie Thomas, Frank Minton, Harold Anthony, Cecil
Legge, Harold Brown, John Jones, Nellie Gittings, Linda Tench, Edith Griffiths,
Gladys Hall, John Parry, Edward Shaw, Bertie Rowe, Leonard Walmsley, James
Lister, Ben Thompson, Leonard Hill, Ronald Malyneaux, Ben Kitson, Percy Gough,
Thom Morris, Geo. Edwards, Tom Smith, Albert Owen, Reggie Davis, James Hall,
John Hatton, Arthur Gittings, Geoffrey Garbett, Frank Kitson, Leonard Tart,
Arthur Templar, Hattie Tonkiss, May Hewson, Doris Garbett, Esther Perks, Jennie
Davis, Nancy Dewstone, Annie Taylor, Lily Evans, Kelly Shaw, Gladys Dudley,
Drusilla Potts, Evelyn Edwards, Fanny Garbett, Lucy Roden.
P.S.A.—
The usual meeting was held on Sunday in the Congregational Chapel. The Rev. W.
S. Hall (vice-president) occupied the chair, and carried out the devotional
part of the service. Mr. Doodson (Coalbrookdale) gave an interesting address,
and special hymns were sung, Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presiding at the organ.
CONFIRMATION.—
Bishop Mather, on behalf of the Bishop of Hereford, administered the rite of
confirmation in the
THE
CHURCH SCHOOLS.— The prizes for attendance given by the Wenlock Education
Committee were distributed at these schools on Friday last week by Mrs. D. L
Prestage. Miss Downes, Miss Collins, Alderman Prestage (chairman of the School
Attendance Committee), and Messrs. J. A. Downes, G. D. Collins, and W. Francis
(school managers) were also present. Before the prizes were distributed, an
explanation was given of the system adopted in allotting the prizes, and
emphasis was laid on the fact that the double qualification of regularity and
punctuality was necessary to secure a prize. Evidence of regularity was shown
by the fact that nearly half the boys obtained a prize, although the percentage
required was 98, while the percentage of punctuality for the whole school for
the past year was 99.7. Among the prize-winners the following boys were neither
late nor absent:— Wm. Garbett (five years), Arthur Tonkis and Arthur Wilde (4
years), Percy Dixon, Herbert Bangham, Thos. Goodall, Jas. Hall, and Wm. Hayward
(3 years), Chas. Preece, Wm. Owen, Hector Smith, Wm. Jones, John Roberts, Cyril
Ball, Cecil Wilde, Cyril Morris, Arthur Meredith, Thos. Roberts, and Sidney
Smith (2 years), George Wase, Richard Rivers, Ed. Gainham, Baden Britton,
Harold Bowen, Chas. Shuker, Cecil Gittens, John Felton, Sidney Hill, Wilshaw
Weekes, Leonard Felton, John Watson, Percy Evans, Abram Britton, Wm. Meredith,
and Leslie Gallier (1 year). In the girl’s department 22 prizes were awarded
for model attendance, and 42 for regularity. The girls who made perfect
attendance were: Nellie Bentley and Elsie May Legge (6 years), Alice Lears (4
years), Louie Price, Nellie Davis, Nellie Fry, and Winnie Gittings (3 years),
Agnes Gough, Louie Garbett, Gwendoine Gittings, Annie Wilkes, Doris Minton,
Nancy Butler. and Olive Davis (two years), Emily Gough, Edna Felton, Effie Garbett,
Bessie Preece, Alice Humphries, Emily Whalley. Annie Lears, and Dorothy Green
(1 year). In the Infants’ School perfect attendances were made by John Evans (3
years), Annie George and Jessie Harris (2 years), Donald Rowe, Wm. Barber, Wm.
Pearce, Edith Gough, Sarah Preece, Lottie Gittings, Brenda Colley, Sarah J.
Harris, Annie Gallier, Nellie Hall, Alice Gittings, and Selina Harris (one
year).
PETTY SESSIONS- TUESDAY.
Before Councillor J. H A. Whitley
(Mayor), Captain Geo. Forester, Dr. G. D. Collings, Aldermen A. B. Dyas and D.
L. Prestage, and Mr. E. W. Shorting.
SLEEPING
OUT.— Reuben Davies, drover, Broseley, was charged by Police-constable Reeves
with sleeping out, and was sentenced to seven days’ imprisonment.— Francis
Smith, an old Broseley offender, was charged by the same officer with sleeping
out, and was sentenced to one month’s imprisonment with hard labour
30th March 1912
CONSIDERATE
EMPLOYERS.-With characteristic thoughtfulness for the well-being of their
employees, Messrs. Maw and Co. are making advances in money to the married
workpeople (male and female) during the coal strike, the amount to be repaid by
easy instalments on resumption of work
The
passing of the Miners’ Minimum Wage Bill by Parliament is the first definite step
in the direction of hastening the end of the great coal strike, which has
thrown practically the whole of the industries of the country into a state of
chaos, and inflicted untold misery in the homes of thousands of the poorer
classes.
The
coalowners’ representatives in London met on Wednesday, and recommended the
owners generally, in spite of their objection to the measure, to make every
endeavour to give effect to its provisions; whilst the same day the conference
of the Miners’ Federation resolved after a sharp division of opinion to take an
immediate ballot of the miners as to whether they were in favour of resuming
work pending a settlement of the minimum rates of wages in the various grades
by the district boards to be appointed under the Act.
A Press
Association telegram last night states that Mr. Ashton, the miner’s general
secretary, advises the men to vote for the resumption of work.
In the
most favourable circumstances it is expected that the general strike must continue
until Easter, although individual pits may be reopened in the meantime. If when
the ballot returns are received on Wednesday next week it is found that a
majority of the men are in favour of resuming work, it will not be possible to
get them back into the pits until the following week. If, on the other hand,
the majority should vote against returning to work until the local minimum
rates are fixed, there is a prospect that the struggle may be prolonged for
four or five weeks.
In
certain parts of
Last
weekend several hundreds of colliers resumed operations at the Brynkinallt
Mines at Chirk, the bulk of the coal raised being acquired by the Great Western
Railway Co. The proprietors of the colliery have not joined the coalowners’
federation, but most of the men are members of the North Wales Miners’
Association. The wages paid to the colliers before the strike were at the minimum
rate claimed for the district in the schedule, and the men are now being paid
at the same rate. So content were the men with their lot that they joined the
strike most reluctantly. They were among the last of the colliers to leave the
pits, just as they have now been among the first to return. About 400 of the
strikers who still remain out marched on Wednesday to the colliery to ask the
reason why the pits were opened. They were well armed with a variety of
cudgels, including rails lifted from fences and branches of trees, and made a
formidable and menacing spectacle. The nine policemen who remained at the colliery
through the night had been reinforced by 40 constables who were posted in the
pit-yard. A deputation of the strikers were received by Mr. Craig, the head of
the firm, who made it clear to them that, as long as the men wanted to work, he
must keep the pit open. He said he certainly would not stop the pit so long as
men chose to come. The deputation returned to the waiting crowd, and repeated
what Mr. Craig had said to them. The spokesman said that Mr. Craig had made it
clear to them that he had not persuaded his men to return to work, but that
they came back of their own accord. There were repeated calls for the local delegate
of the Brynkinallt employees to the North Wales Miners’ Association, but on
being assured that he was not about the strikers returned to Cefn.
On
Wednesday night a detachment of Infantry detrained at Preesgweene, a station
within a distance of two miles from the Brynkinallt Colliery. The guard
consisted of half a company of the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry, under the
command of Captain Atcheson, which was despatched from
Orders
were issued for the 3rd Suffolk Regiment to leave Aldershot on Wednesday night
for
The
first of the ballots to be taken among the miners on the question whether there
shall be an immediate resumption of work was held on Thursday at Chirk. About
350 men voted, and the majority was in the proportion of nearly five to two in
favour of a return to work.
Although
a number of owners had announced that their pits would be re-opened on Thursday
there was a very poor response on the part of the colliers, and it is doubtful
whether more than a few hundred additional men returned to work. As a body the
men seem decided to remain on strike until the result of the ballot is known
and the Federation has sanctioned a return to work.
During
the week there have been serious riots in the Cannock Chase coalfield, and
considerable wanton damage has been done by the strikers to colliery property.
At a
meeting of Wellington Board of Guardians, on Thursday, the chairman (Mr. E.
Holmes) stated that acting upon the instructions of the Board, and a suggestion
made by the Local Government Board Inspector for the district, the master of
the workhouse had secured a quantity of wood so that any applicants for relief,
who were willing to work, might he given temporary employment in cutting up the
wood, and receiving payments for it. Since then a copy of the following
resolution had been received from the Oakengates Urban Council:— “That this
Council urges upon the Wellington, Shifnal, and Newport Boards of Guardians to
hold a meeting with all possible speed to consider the great distress in this
urban district, owing to the miners’ strike, and suggests that they hold such
meeting in this immediate industrial centre, to avoid the necessitous poor
travelling to either Wellington, Shifnal, or Newport.” He (the Chairman of the
Board), thought that that would be a very difficult matter to carry out, but as
the resolution had been passed, and sent on to them for their consideration, it
was their duty to express some opinion upon it. He had also received a letter
from a clergyman on the same subject, and he wrote and told that gentlemen what
they had done with the consent of the Local Government Board, and also that if
any genuine applications for work came to them they world try to find some
employment for them. He, however, believed, that no application had yet been
received.— Mr. Frost (master): Not one.— Mr. T. Taylor said that neither the
urban nor the rural members of the Board needed to be reminded of their duties
by a resolution of the kind sent to them from Oakengates; and he thought that
the Oakengates Urban Council should be informed that the Wellington Guardians
were quite capable of attending to their own business. (Hear, hear).— Mr R.
Cadman said that he did not think that resolution represented the feeling of the
whole of the members of the Oakengates Council.— Mr Manning said that he had
been making systematic inquiries relative to the condition of the poor in the
mining portion of their area, and he found that a great deal was being done by
voluntary effort, and in no instance could distress be said to have become
actually acute. Four specific applications for relief had been made to him, but
he found on going to the houses that in three of them there appeared sufficient
plain food for immediate requirements, and in the fourth a woman was chopping
up boiled eggs to feed the birds they kept. (Laughter). The result of his own
investigations in the neighbourhood of Oakengates was that, owing to voluntary
effort, matters were not nearly so bad as some people had represented them to
be.— Mr. Brothwod said that in Oakengates, Hadley, Ketley, and other contiguous
places, arrangements had been made to feed the children daily. He thought that
each district should look after itself.— Mr. Austin asked if the applications
for out-relief had been at all abnormal, and the Clerk said that they had not;
nor had the applications for admission to the house. A letter was read from the
Clerk to the Shifnal Guardians asking what course the Board intended to take
with reference to the Oakengates resolution.— It was agreed that Oakengates
Council and the Shifnal Guardians be informed that the Board intended to look
after its own poor, and would leave other authorities to do the same.
The
miners at the Most Hall Colliery, near Hanwood, resumed work on Monday. They
are non-union men. There has been no attempt to interfere with them in any way.
A
public meeting, convened by Alderman A. B. Dyas (ex-mayor), was held at Madeley
on Monday to consider what steps should be taken to alleviate the distress
amongst the families of those who were destitute through the strike. The Rev.
E. Bulstrode Pryce (vicar) presided over a meagre attendance. —Alderman Dyas
said that he had called the meeting, not that there was immediate distress, but
he thought it was no use waiting until the wolf was at their doors, but that
they should be ready to take action. He had a fund in hand from an old relief
fund opened 30 years ago, amounting to over £8. The Mayor of Wenlock
(Councillor J. H. A. Whitley) and Sir C. S. Henry, M.P., had promised help in
the matter. (Applause.) People working at other industries were suffering, and,
as for the colliers, he believed that some would be glad to get to work
again, but ‘‘they were afraid of their
necks”.— Mr. W. Ward said that there were cases of acute distress in the
district — not particularly among the miners, but among other people affected
by the strike.— Dr. Droop expressed the opinion that by assisting the colliers,
who had their strike pay, they would probably prolong the strike.— Alderman
Dyas said that he was sorry for the poor people thrown out of work through the
blowing out of the furnaces, and he could see nothing but the workhouse staring
them in the face.— The Vicar stated that only those people who were suffering
through the strike would be relieved.— A committee to collect subscriptions was
appointed.
At
Ironbridge on Monday a public meeting was held to appoint a committee to collect
funds and arrange for relieving those in need of assistance. Mr. T. Parker
presided over a good attendance.- Mr. J. W. White, who had called the meeting,
explained the position of the Coalbrookdale and Iron-Bridge Relief Committee.—
The Chairman condemned the action of the colliers, adding that people of other
industries were in a worse condition than the miners. The miners, he said, had
had a grievance for some time, and fostered it until they decided on this
terribly mistaken step, and in 12 months’ time they would all regret this step.
This action of the colliers meant the destruction of democracy. They must,
however, help the innocent and starving. (Applause.) He received telegrams from
Sir Chas. S. Henry and Captain Forester offering to subscribe to the scheme.—
Mr. W. S. Malcolm (managing director of the Coalbrookdale Works re-marked that
there was no distress in Coalbrookdale. He also thought that there should have
been more notice given of the present meeting.— After a great deal of discussion
the Rev. W. Hamlyn proposed that the existing committee be asked to undertake
the collection of funds and arrange for the relief of those in need of
assistance in Iron-Bridge, and that the fund in the hands of the committee form
a nucleus of the fund.— Mr. T. D. Thomas seconded the motion, which was
carried.
A
special meeting of Oakengates Urban Council was held on Monday to consider the
great distress in the district owing to the strike. The Chairman (Mr. C.
Woodhouse) said that some people considered it the duty of the Council to see
what they could do to alleviate the distress. What had been done by the
religious bodies was very commend-able, and they as a Council representing
various shades of opinion ought to do some-thing in the matter.— Mr. R. L.
Corbett said that it was the duty of the Guardians primarily to whom the
distressed had the right to apply for relief. In regard to the Provision of
Meals Act, he had seen Mr. Wale, who had informed him that before anything
could be done the County Council would have to be called together.— Mr. Teece
said that, as a Guardian, he should do his utmost for the distressed.— Mr. A.
Hoggins said that the parents of two-thirds of the children at Wrockwardine
Wood were either on strike or were affected by it. He understood that steps
were being taken on behalf of the Education Committee for the feeding of the
school children.— Mr. F. A. Maddock, C.C., said that if they had to wait for
the County Council there would probably be another strike. He asked them not to
rely on the County Council, or else the poor children would be dead. He thought
that it would be wise to approach the Guardians, so that something could be
done immediately. In his opinion it was useless to start a voluntary fund.— Mr.
G. Davies said that he was as loyal as any man; but if they could put on a
penny rate for Coronation festivities, they ought to be able to put on a
similar rate for the feeding of the poor children. The idea was that the County
Council had started at the wrong end in appointing special constables to break
heads; he believed in relieving hunger before breaking heads. He suggested that
they employ some of the unemployed men to break stone.— Mr. R. L. Corbett moved
“That this Council urges upon the Wellington, Shifnal, and Newport Boards of
Guardians to hold a meeting with all possible speed to consider the great distress
prevalent in this district owing to the miners’ strike, and suggests that they
hold such meeting in this immediate industrial centre to avoid the necessitous
poor having to travel either to Wellington, Shifnal, or Newport.” - Mr. P. A.
Maddocks, seconded.- Mr. S. Wixon thought that such a resolution was a
reflection upon the Guardians. — Mr. G. Davies said that he wanted to give work
and not charity.— The motion was carried.— Mr. George Davies proposed that the
Council employ a number of men (not being in receipt of strike pay) two days
per week to break cinders, and that preference be given to married men with
families.— Mr. Hoggins seconded.— The Surveyor said that he could find work at
the Donnington Wood cinder hill.— The motion was carried, and it was decided to
pay the usual rate of wages, three shillings per day.-Mr. R. L. Corbett
proposed “That this Council appeals to persons resident in the urban district,
who are in a position to do so, to undertake to give breakfasts or dinners to
six or more children each day, and that they ascertain from the schools the
names of the necessitous children of those who are not in receipt of strike or
lock-out pay”. Mr. Corbett said that he would willingly take the first six.—
Mr. F. A. Maddocks seconded.— Mr. Davies said that the Council ought to do
something as a body, and suggested that they provide soup-kitchens in various
parts of the district.— Mr. Hoggins said that what had already been done in the
district in providing free breakfasts was commendable, and he thought it would
be more effectual and practical if they were to assist those already engaged in
that work.— Mr. Corbett’s motion was carried.
On
Monday a mass meeting of the Lilleshall Company’s miners was held at Oakengates.
Mr. C. Matthews (district treasurer) presided, and said that they had had that
morning an interview with the officials of the Lilleshall Company on matters of
important business, and it was for the men to decide what should be done in
relation to it. Referring to the miners’ allowance coal, he said that coal was
being drawn for the men, and he thought that the company were anxious to draw
all the coal that was due to the miners, if the men were willing to get it.—
Mr. Alfred Hoggins (district president) said that at the request of a number of
the officials of the various lodges a deputation was arranged to meet the
officials of the company in order to ascertain the truth or otherwise of the
rumours that were prevalent in regard to the raising of coal for other purposes
than supplying the miners’ coal. He had seen Mr. Greene, and he assured him
(Mr. Hoggins) that the rumours were incorrect, and that there had not gone one
pound of coal for any other purpose than was agreed upon by their agent (Mr. W.
Latham). They had received a resolution from the Blast Furnacemen’s Association
asking for the same concession to be made for the furnacemen in relation to
their house coals (which were due) as had been made in relation to the miners. He
said that the furnacemen were in full sympathy with them, and hoped the miners
would be victors in the fight. They were fellow trades unionists, and he (Mr.
Hoggins) believed that they were strongly in sympathy with them, and he appealed
to them to grant to the blast-furnacemen the concession they had asked for,
viz., to go to the pit and draw sufficient coal to supply the furnacemen’s
coal. On the question being put to the vote, it was decided by a large majority
not to grant the concession asked for. The Lilleshall Company wanted to know
why they could not do the same for them as had been done at Madeley in regard
to raising coal to keep their furnaces going, and promised that not one pound
of coal should be sold; the company asked for this so that they could be ready
when a settlement was reached, and that they would not make any coke until a
settlement had been arrived at.— It was unanimously decided not to allow any
coal to be raised, only what was required for the miners themselves.— It was
reported that certain stallmen had been engaged at the Freehold Pits (Donningion
Wood Colliery) in clearing the roads, which he (Mr. Hoggins) believed were in a
dreadful condition, and that the general opinion of the men was that such work
should only be done by daywork men, who usually performed such work. It was
resolved to ask that the stallmen should be stopped, and that the proper
roadmen carry out the work.- In reviewing the general situation, Mr. Hoggins
said that Shropshire was to have a District Board of its own, instead of being
connected with the Midlandland Federation, and it would be for them to say what
the minimum wage should be for the district.— A resolution was passed expressing
the great appreciation of the meeting of the good work done by the Oakengates
Brotherhood in providing free breakfasts for necessitous children.
It was
stated in the meeting that a number of non-union men had gone to work at Mr. R.
Cadman`s pits at Ketley Bank, and the men on leaving the meeting proceeded in a
body up to the pit. Here they were met by Inspector Jones and a number of
police officers, and the Inspector informed the men that Mr. Cadman would have
all possible protection to work his pits. A deputation, consisting of Messrs.
B. Dallis,
Another
mass meeting of miners was held at Oakengates on Thursday, when Mr. A. Hoggins
presided over a crowded meeting. He said that he was disappointed with what
they had got, but they should make the best of it, and he thought it was their
business to accept the bill.—Mr. W. Latham (agent) said that the question now
was whether they should resume work. (Cries of “No.”). He said that the moment
for excitement had gone. For the first time in their history Parliament was
going to govern and control the wages of the workmen. There was not a more
law-abiding citizen than the miner; the way they had conducted themselves had
simply staggered the world, and he was proud of the class to which he belonged.
They had been given an Act of Parliament, and though they might not like it,
rather than be defeated by poverty, and shot down by soldiers, they would take
it. Though the Act was not what they desired, it was the best they could get
with a limited number of Labour members and supporters of labour. Speaking of
the ballot, he said that it was not to be taken in order to ascertain whether
they would accept the act, but whether they would resume work or not. There
would be a lively time in this district if the new district board did not give
them the minimum wage, which in that district would be 7s. per day.— Mr. John
Bayley,
Mr.
Samuel Atherton, who employs the majority of miners now on strike in the
Han-wood district, is allowing the villagers to collect sticks from the
Bleachfield Woods owned by him. He has placed no restrictions whatever on the
people, and large numbers of women and children have carried off piles of
firewood every day since the strike commenced. His kindness is greatly
appreciated by the villagers, who would have been entirely without fuel but for
this generous concession.
The
Cambrian Woollen Mills at
Lord
Harlech has opened his park to the poor of Oswestry to enable them to pick
wood. Lord Powis is also allowing, the poorer inhabitants of Welshpool to take
timber from his woods, and to the cottagers and tenants on his estate he is
selling coal from a reserve stock at prices prevailing before the strike.
By the
Duke of Sutherland’s orders wood has been distributed amongst the cottagers on
the Lilleshall estate during the week.
The men
employed at Moat Hall Colliery pits, Annscroft, near
The
G.W.R. and L. and N.W. Railway Companies owing to the continuance of the strike
cannot afford the usual facilities for travel during the Easter holiday period.
Excursion, week-end, Saturday to Monday, market, pleasure party, and other
cheap tickets will not be issued.
6th April 1912
By a
majority of 42,998 the members of the Miners’ Federation of Great Britain have
declared against resuming work pending a settlement of the minimum rates of
wages by the district boards to be appointed under the Mines (Minimum Wage)
Act. The Executive Committee of the Federation, after long deliberation on
Thursday, resolved to submit the question of a return to work to a National
Conference to be held in
The
figures of the ballot give the following results.— number of Federation member
588,000, number of votes recorded 445,024 against resuming work 244,011, in
favour of resuming work 201,013; majority against resuming 42,998. In the
ballot which was taken in January on the question of giving notice, 561,522 men
voted. Of these 455,801 were in favour of giving notice and 115,721 against.
Little more than 50 per cent., therefore, of those who were prepared to strike
in January are now anxious to continue the strike.
The
number of miners at work is growing daily. The
District
boards for two important coalfields were appointed on Wednesday. At a conference
in Cardiff it was resolved that the members of the existing South Wales Conciliation
Board should constitute the joint wage board under the new Act, with Lord St.
Aldwyn as the independent chairman; and at a meeting in Manchester the
coalowners and miners’ representatives appointed delegates to the new board,
over which Judge Bradbury will preside.
Yesterday
week the Iron-Bridge Relief Committee distributed 100 tickets to the value of
1s. up to 2s., to the most needy cases in the district. The gift was repeated
on Thursday Mr. J. W. White is the treasurer, and Mr. W. Davies (secretary).
In
consequence of the Madeley Wood Company putting out a notice on Monday that the
Kemberton and Meadow pits would be open on Tuesday for the colliers to return
to work, the secretary of the local Lodge (Mr W. Instone) hastily summoned a
mass meeting on Monday to consider the matter. Mr T. Instone presided over a
crowded room, and remarked that he had known nothing about the meeting until he
heard the bellman. He thought that their agent (Mr. Latham) should be present
before they decided anything. He asked the men if they were going to work or
not, they responded with a great cry of “No.” The meeting was thus adjourned to
Tuesday when Mr. T. Tranter presided, and the men listened attentively to the addresses
of Messrs A. Hoggins (president of the association), and W. Latham (miners’
agent). Mr. Latham expressed the hope that the men would remain true to the
great purpose they had at heart, and the meeting unanimously decided to remain
firm to the federation, and not to return to work until the result of the
ballot was declared.
A
feeling of great relief was produced in Mold and district on Tuesday, when it
be-came known that the coal strike, so far as it affected Bromfield Colliery,
Mold, was practically at an end. On Monday morning about 100 colliers assembled
at the offices and stated that they had decided to “sign on,” and re-start work
in accordance with the offer made by the management. They were told to come
again later, and in the afternoon, about two o’clock they assembled in still
larger numbers, and informed the manager (Mr. Thomas Jones) that all present
were agreeable to an immediate resumption of work as they could not see that
anything was to be gained by a prolongation of the strike in that district. Mr.
Jones addressed the men, and said it was not the wish of the company to
exercise the least pressure. If, as they stated, they were desirous of
restarting work he would make arrangements for them to begin that Monday evening
and others on Tuesday morning. He wished them plainly to understand, however,
that it would be impossible to take all the men back immediately, on account of
the condition of the mine. Besides the hundred or so men who were already
engaged in tunnelling and keeping the roads in order, he would be able to put
another hundred men on, and others would be engaged gradually. It would be some
few months before anything like the former number of men, between 700 and 800,
could be taken on. Mr. Jones made it clear that there was no ill-feeling or
bitterness on the part of the employers, who fully realised the circumstances.
Interviewed later, Mr. Jones informed a press representative that men would be
taken back gradually each day. The difficulty was that men and boys could only
be taken on in certain proportions according to the nature of the work they
did; and for the present they had ample names on the books to meet requirements.
About a hundred men returned to work on Monday night and Tuesday morning.
Everything passed off peaceably and not the slightest opposition was offered.
Some time, probably a week or two, must elapse before the tinplate works at
Mold can restart, as there they are not only waiting for coal, but are waiting
for steel from the Brymbo Steelworks. The managing director of the tinplate
works (Mr. J. T. Morgans) has very kindly granted loans of money to workmen who
were in necessitous circumstances, and this concession has proved a great boon
to many men. Much assistance in alleviating distress has been given by Mr. P.
T. Davies-Cooke (Gwysaney) and Captain Pennant Lloyd, R.N. (Pentrobin), who has
kindly allowed fuel to be gathered on their estates, and have distributed food
of various kinds, including rabbits, to men, women, and children. The
distribution of soup daily to school children at the Market Hall has also done
much to relieve the poignancy of the distress.
Full
work has been resumed at the Brynkinallt-Collieries, Chirk, and the collieries
in the Ruabon, Wrexham, and Moss districts are preparing for work. Messrs.
Craig, the owners of the Brynkinallt Collieries, sent two truck loads of coal
to Oswestry for distribution among the poor of the town on Monday. A meeting
was told on Wednesday between the representatives of the
Although
the ballot figures for Oakengates district are included in those of the
The men
working at the Arscott Colliery, Hanwood, belonging to Mr. Smallshaw, all
resumed work on Monday last. The Hanwood miners employed by Mr. S. Atherton
will probably start work in full swing on Tuesday next. They were met by Mr.
Atherton at the pit mouth on Thursday, and it was decided to open the pit on
Tuesday next— a prospect very pleasing to the men employed. The people living
in the
13th April 1912
GENEROSITY.—
The distress in this town and Jackfield is very acute, and what the inhabitants
would have done without Lord Forester’s kind help is difficult to imagine. His
lordship has given of everything largely, including a great quantity of wood,
whilst he has opened up a coal mine in Benthall Edge where deserving cases obtain
coal daily, and this alone has proved a god-send to the poorer members of the
community.
MARRIAGE.—
A pretty wedding was celebrated in All Saints’ Church on Wednesday, the
contracting parties being Mr. Arthur Cyril Walker of The Inett, Broseley (second
son of Mr. Edmund Walker, The Lye, Morville), and Miss Dorothy Grace Ledger
(eldest daughter of Mr. E. H. Ledger of West Holm, Oswestry). The ceremony was
performed by the Rev. A. C. Howell (Rector). There was a large gathering of
friends of both bride and bridegroom to witness the function. The bride, who
was handsomely attired in a dress of ivory crepe meteor, trimmed with Brussels
lace and pearls, and wore a wreath of real orange blossom (given by Miss
Potts), and a veil, and carried a very choice bouquet of carnations, lilies of
the valley, and white heather (gift of the bridegroom) was escorted by her
father, who gave her away. The bridesmaids were Miss Winifred Ledger (sister of
the bride), and Miss Lilian Walker (sister of the bridegroom), who were prettily
attired in Mandarin blue voile, trimmed hand-painted satin and point lace, with
hats to match; they wore gold bangles and carried bouquets of pink carnations
and lilies of the valley (gifts of the bridegroom). Mr. Ernest Walker (brother
of bridegroom) acted as best man. A reception was afterwards held in the Town
Hall, a good number of relatives and friends being present. The bride’s
going-away attire was a light grey coat and skirt, with Tegal straw hat trimmed
with Saxe blue satin. Later in the day the happy couple left in a motor-car for
their future home.
13th April 1912
MEN RESUME WORK.
The
general coal strike, which began on March 1, was declared on Saturday by the
representatives of the miners to be at an end. These representatives, forming a
conference of the Miners’ Federation, met in
In
Now
that fresh coal supplies are beginning to reach the manufacturing centres there
are indications in many quarters of a revival of industry. The railway
companies also are showing greater activity. The returns for last week of most
of the leading companies have been issued, and show that the loss of traffic
sustained during the fifth and final week of the strike was not quite so severe
as in the preceding week. This was due to increased passenger traffic during
the holidays. The loss in gross receipts of 25 companies for the five weeks of
the strike exceeded three millions sterling.
At a
first meeting of the Shropshire Miners’ Board at
A
meeting of miners was held on Good Friday at Oakengates Mr. A. Hoggins presiding.
The Chairman said they had met after practically a five weeks’ national strike,
and it was to their credit that they had stood loyal to the resolutions of the
federation, the strike having shown to the country the power of combination and
organisation. They were not a defeated party, for it was a fact that they had
won— they had got the principle of a minimum wage established. To get all that
was in the Act required all the moral fibre that was in them, for they meant to
have the rates that had been scheduled. If they were to continue their loyalty
they must now return to work.- Mr. W. Latham (agent) said that they had met to
consider the question whether they should resume work pending a settlement of a
minimum wage by the district boards. They had been instructed by their
executive to resume work. Referring to the formation of the district boards, he
said that for many years they had belonged to the Midland Federation, who had
been a great help to them in the past, but now help was most needed they found
that they had been trusting to a broken staff, and he strongly criticised the
action of being broken off from the Midland Federation, and said that there was
no use of a federation if they were to be divided into sections. The moment had
come for need of the best intelligence of the county, for now was the supreme
moment for the destiny of the Shropshire miners, for a good many years lay
within the next few weeks, and they must have linked hands, for they had to
fight their own fight. They ought to have no trouble in establishing the schedule
rates for the district, for they had been admitted by an employer on the board
to be the average wage. Mr. Latham then gave a general survey of the situation,
in which it was shown in this district that 1,415 had voted for returning to
work and 428 against, and he asked them to confirm that and also the resolution
of the national executive. A vote was taken, and the resolution was confirmed,
and it was decided to return to work.— Most of the pits accordingly began work
on Saturday and Easter Tuesday, and much gratification is felt throughout the
district at the resumption of work.
The men
employed at the Kinlet and Highley Pits, near Bridgnorth, numbering about 600,
have been out of sympathy with the strike from the commencement, and when they
were informed that the funds had run out they decided to return to work at
once.
Work
has been resumed at the Kemberton and Meadow pits in the Madeley Wood coal- but
in consequence of the Blest’s Hill Furnaces having been blown out upwards of
200 workmen have been thrown out of employment.
4th May 1912
DISTRICT
COUNCIL.- Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
T. I. Griffiths. G. D. Collins, and G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson
(surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E.
Abberley. (water inspector).— Mr. Herbert reported one case of scarlet fever
and diphtheria at Jackfield, and also one case of scarlet fever at Broseley. A
number of nuisances were reported by the officer, and the usual orders, were
made.— Mr. Keay expressed his opinion that a good many people would begin to
wish that they had no property. He thought it would be a good thing if the
world went altogether. (Laughter.)- It was reported that there was an overdraft
at the bank for £300— The Clerk said that they would soon begin upon the new
rate.
Dr.
Collins brought up the question of the “fair nuisance”, stating that the noise
at midnight on Tuesday was most hideous. He suggested that the fair should be
held a distance from the town.— Mr. Keay said that he would have no objection
for the fair to be held at his end of the town.—The Chairman said that the best
way to deal with the matter was for the residents to memorialise Mr. Jenkyn, asking
for an abatement of “the nuisance.” — The matter was left with the clerk, who
was asked to communicate with the landlord. - The Surveyor reported that his
expenditure for the month was £19 8s. 2d. A letter was read from Dr. J. G.
Boon, who enclosed a packet of nails which he had picked up at Barrett’s Hill.
Considering that their rates were so high, he thought that better material
should be put on the roads!— The meeting was of opinion that the nails had been
thrown on the road by the inhabitants and the matter was referred to the
Surveyor. The Chairman made reference to
the recent fire at the Dean Farm, and spoke of the smart work of the fire brigade,
who turned out and were at the place in 15 minutes, and saved a large portion
of the farm buildings. Their work was smart, and he considered that they ought
to have some credit for it. (Hear, hear.) Mr.
Abberley reported that all the water mains were in good working order. The
consumption of Harrington water was on the increase.
11th May 1912
TITANIC
DISASTER FUND.— A collection on behalf of this fund was made at the afternoon
service on Sunday in the
18th May 1912
DEATH
OF MR. JAMES LEE.— On the 11th inst. Mr. James Lee passed away at his
residence. 49, Crew’s Park, Broseley Deceased was 68 years of age, and in his
early days was in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co. at the Old Works, Benthall,
eventually entering the service of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co., as a
packer, in which capacity he continued until his death. He had been a member of
the “Rose of the Vale” Lodge of Oddfellows (Iron-Bridge) for about 46 years,
and the lodge was strongly represented at the funeral, the members wearing the
usual regalia of the Order. His remains were interred in the cemetery on
Tuesday. The Rev. A. C. Howell (rector) conducted the service in the church and
at the graveside. The mourners were Messrs. James and William Lee (sons),
Arthur Brown, James Speake, Robert Lee, and George Williams (nephews), and Mr.
T. E. Patten (brother-in-law). There was a large gathering present, among whom
were: —Mr. C. C. Bruff, Mr. W. Smith (representing the firm of Messrs. Craven,
Dunnill and Co.), Mr. C. W. Hughes and Mr J. Watkins (representing the office
staff), and Mr. F. Smith (representing the employees), Messrs. W. Francis
(Church View), W Edge (Mill House), T. R. Hill, T. Edwards, R. Watkins, A.
Harvey, Geo. Higgins, T. Marlow, W. Leadbetter, Arthur Shaw, and James Davies
(King Street), by whom the funeral arrangements were carried out. Mr. H. Foster,
P.O., read the Oddfellows’ address at the graveside. Beautiful wreaths were
contributed by the family, relatives, and friends of deceased, including one
from the office staff and employees of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co.
18th May 1912
OLYMPIAN
SOCIETY.— At a meeting on Friday last week, Mr. J. H. Grainger presiding,
tenders were accepted for prizes, booth, and refreshment tents. The Mayor
(Councillor H. A. Whitley), as advertised, is giving prizes for the best horses
in the tilting competition.
BOROUGH
COUNCIL.— WEDNESDAY.
Present:—
Councillor J. H. A. Whitley (mayor), Aldermen A. B. Dyas, J. Davies, D. L.
Prestage, F. G. Beddoes, and W. J. Legge, Councillors B. Maddox, G. D. Collins,
J. E. A. Wolryche-Whitmore, A. L. Hayes, J. Roberts, G. Keay, J. Jinks, R.
Clarke, A. A. Exley, W. G. Dyas, W. F, Bryan, T. Morris, C. Edwards, and W. J. Milner, Mr. I.
H. Potts (town clerk), and other borough officials.
The
Clerk stated that the Chief-Constable had approved of the plans suggested by
the Justices to alter the Much Wenlock Police Station, but they have to be
submitted to the Home Office.— Mr. Herbert presented the plans which were
explained by the clerk.
The
amount of the quarterly bills, &c., to be paid, the Mayor said, amounted to
£405 0s. l1d. There was a sum in hand of £122, leaving to be raised by a rate
£282 19s. 9d. The rateable value of the borough was £54,811. He moved that a
borough rate of 1½d. in the pound be levied.— Alderman Dyas seconded, and the
motion was carried.
Alderman
Dyas presented a report of the Main Roads Committee, which was adopted. The
meeting decided to accept from the County Council £1,864 per annum towards the
cost and maintenance and repair of the borough roads for a period of three
years.- The question of tar spraying the roads was left to the Sanitary
Committee.— A sub-committee, was appointed to draw up a letter to the County
Council, who offered the sum of £100 towards the repair of the Broseley and
Iron-Bridge road, ascertaining what the County Council were prepared to do in
the future with these roads.— Mr. Maddox- stated that the new bridge at
Iron-Bridge was being worn, and moved that the surveyor be instructed to give
attention to the bridge and its approaches.— Alderman Prestage seconded.— Mr.
Maddox said that a weight limit would have to be arranged.— Alderman Prestage
considered that the bridge was efficient for the work of the district.— The
motion was carried.
The
Mayor said that the next business was to pass a resolution on behalf of the
Wenlock Sanitary Committee instructing the town clerk to apply to the Public
Works Loan Commissioners and others for a loan of £5,000 for the purpose of the
Much Wenlock sewerage scheme, and to order the borough seal to be affixed to
the mortgage deed and other documents relating thereto.— The. Clerk explained
that the sanction of the Local Government Board had been obtained for borrowing
£6,000, and that the scheme had commenced, and before long the contractor would
require some money. The Wenlock Sanitary Committee wished to apply for £5,000.—
Mr. Edwards, in proposing a motion to the above effect, remarked that the
scheme was forced upon them. — Mr. Maddox said that he seconded the motion with
reluctance, and Wenlock had his deepest sympathy. He hoped that it would not be
forced upon other parts of the borough.— The motion was carried.
The
Mayor said that they had now to pass a resolution instructing the town clerk to
obtain a loan of £1,500 towards the amount paid to the Montgomery County
Council under the agreement as to the dissolution of Salop and Wenlock with Montgomery
in respect of Bicton Asylum, and to order the borough seal to be affixed to the
mortgage deed and other documents relating thereto. — Alderman Davies proposed
a resolution to this effect, which was seconded by Alderman Dyas, and carried.
The
public analyst reported that all the three samples of milk that he had analysed
were genuine.
Mr.
Buckland reported that he had audited the elementary education accounts; in
which there was nothing special to draw the Council’s attention.
Mrs. W.
G. Owen (Dale End) was appointed representative manager of the
With
reference to the Shops Act the Clerk said that he had posted up notices concerning
it in the borough, and the question was now to appoint an inspector. He did not
think that his duties would be very heavy.— Mr. Symonds stated that until the
closing orders were made in the borough they could do no work.— The Clerk said
that meant that the Town Council could make an order that all the shops closed
on a certain day.— Alderman Beddoes thought that they could trust the people as
to what day they should close. He did not think there would be any difficulty
in the borough.— The question was referred to the General Purposes Committee.
A
communication was received from the County Council criticising the
unsatisfactory arrangement of the Broseley Isolation Hospital.— Dr. Collins
said that he did not think there would be any difficulty to staff or make the
necessary arrangements at short notice.— The Clerk was instructed to reply to
the County Council to that effect.
A
letter was also read from the County Council asking the Borough Council to proceed
with a sewerage scheme for the Iron-Bridge and Broseley districts without
delay. — The clerk was ordered to inform the Council that the matter was under
consideration.
Mr.
Symonds, inspector of weights and measures presented his annual report upon the
administration of the Weights and Measures Acts in the borough. He had made 332
surprise visits of outdoor inspection, which were more than required by the
Board of Trade, and he was pleased to report that he had met with no case
requiring a prosecution.— Mr. Symonds was thanked for his satisfactory report.
1st June 1912
PRESENTATIONS TO LORD FORESTER AND
CAPTAIN FORESTER.
A
pleasing and memorable ceremony took place on the Victoria Memorial Green on Saturday,
when the poor inhabitants of Broseley and Benthall gratefully acknowledged the
extreme kindness during the coal strike of Lord Forester and Captain Geo.
Forester by presenting them with an enlarged framed photograph of the Foxholes
Mines in which they appeared. The inscription read:— “Presented to the Rt. Hon.
Lord Forester and Captain G. C. B. W. Forester by the poor of Broseley and
Benthall as a slight memento of their generosity during the coal strike of 1912’’.
Councillor J. Nicklin presided, and was supported on the platform by Lord
Forester, Captain Geo. Forester, Mrs. Forester and son, the Rev. A. C. Howell,
the Rev. W. A. Terry, Dr. J. G. Boon, Messrs. T. I. Griffiths, E. C S. White,
and W Bishop. The Jackfield Band was present, and under the direction of Mr. G.
W. Aston discoursed some excellent music. The Boy Scouts, under the command of
Scoutmaster W. Edge and Assistant Scoutmaster Leonard Wase were also in
attendance. There was a large crowd present.
Councillor
Nicklin referred to the many kind acts of the Forester family, adding that Lord
Forester was always ready to ameliorate the sufferings of the poor of that
parish, and it was a pleasure to him to render what assistance he could during
the late lamentable strike. (Applause.) There was consequently an out-burst of
feeling among those who benefited that they should do something whereby they
could recognise his lordship’s kindness, and that was the object of their
meeting together that day. (Applause.)
Dr. J.
G. Boon (chairman of the committee) then made the presentation amid great
enthusiasm. He said that it was a great honour to him to be asked to make the
presentations from those who suffered during the recent coal strike
presentations got up by themselves and paid for with their coppers. (Applause.)
Many homes would have been fireless had it not been for his lordship’s kindness
in giving wood away in large quantities and coal free during the time of need.
(Applause.) He knew that no words of his could express the deep gratitude which
was felt in Broseley and Benthall to the Forester family. (Applause.) It was
also a very great pleasure to him to have to make at the same time a
presentation to Captain the Hon. Geo. Forester, the worthy son of a worthy
father—(applause)— who took a very active part in this generous work
(Applause.) The King, he added, had this week made Capt. Forester a Knight of
the Order of
Lord
Forester said that he had not expected anything from them, but he would say
that the feeling which prompted them to offer those mementos he fully
appreciated. He was glad that he had had some wood and coal handy to give away.
(Applause.) The poor had all suffered through strikes, and he saw that there
was another strike in
Captain
Forester remarked that it was very kind of them to have given his father this
appreciation of their feelings to him, but it was, still more kind of them to
have also given one to him, because he did not consider that he deserved it in
the very slightest. He did not give them the wood or coal, but he did try to do
all he could to help his father’s action, which they had so generously
acknowledged that day. He would say with pride that the family he belonged to
had always tried to do their duty to alleviate any distress when any crisis
arose such as the late strike. (Applause.) Actions of this kind, he maintained,
drew the different classes together, instead of widening the breach.
(Applause.) As long as he lived he should value the photograph amongst his
cherished possessions from his old friends of Broseley and Benthall.
(Applause.) He added that he would now make a third presentation from the poor
of Broseley and Benthall to his very great friend, Dr. Boon. (Applause.) He
then handed to that gentleman a similar photograph, which, the Captain said was
a little surprise to him. He also referred to the good work that the doctor did
among the poor of the town. The Captain also referred to the keen interest and
great help which Mr. A. C. Edwards (secretary) had taken in the distribution of
the coal, and handed to him a handsome pipe and cigarette-holder in case.
Dr
Boon, in acknowledging the gift, stated that that was the biggest surprise he
had ever had, and he preferred that picture to being knighted, (Laughter.) He
hoped they would never have another winter in Broseley like the last.
(Applause.)— Mr. Edwards also returned thanks.
Mr.
Griffiths proposed a vote of thanks to Dr. Boon for making the presentation,
which was seconded by Mr. W. Bishop, and carried with musical honours.— The
Rev. A. C. Howell proposed that a vote of thanks be tendered to the Victoria
Institute, the band, and Boy Scouts, which was seconded by the Rev. W. A. T.
Terry, and carried.- On the motion of
Mr. E. C. S White, seconded by M. G. P. Bagley, a vote of thanks was accorded
Mr. Nicklin for Presiding.— Cheers for
Lord Forester and family concluded a memorable event.
The
following gentlemen composed the committee and carried out the arrangements:—
Dr. J. G Boon (chairman), Messrs. J. Evans, R. Blood, W. H. Ball, F. Ball, H.
Mason, R. Clinton. J. Broadhurst, W. Gainham, and A. C. Edwards, the last-named
proving an energetic secretary.
8th June 1912
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Alderman F. C. Beddoes, Captain
Geo. Forester, Councillors B. Maddox and W. Roberts.
THE
TRANSFER of the Falcon Inn, Much Wenlock, was granted to Councillor T. R.
Horton; and that of the Duke of Wellington, Coalport, to Geo. Downes.
DRUNK
IN CHARGE.— Richard Childes, Posenhall, was summoned for being drunk in charge
of a horse.— Sergeant Morris stated that he saw defendant and another man named
A. James in charge of three horses. Defendant was riding the first horse, and
was in a drunken condition. Witness had the horses stopped, and put the team in
charge of James.— Defendant was ordered to pay costs.
8th June 1912
BURIAL
BOARD. — The quarterly meeting was held on Wednesday, with Alderman D. L.
Prestage in the chair. The clerk (Mr. F. H. Potts) reported a balance of £7 1s.
2d. in hand. The other business was of a formal character.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Lord
Forester, Councillors J. Nicklin, T. J. Griffiths, G. Keay, and Messrs. F. H.
Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E.
Oakes (collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).— Mr. Herbert reported
that there had been no notifiable infectious disease cases since the last meeting.
He also reported a number of nuisances, and the usual orders were made.— The
Clerk reported an adverse balance on the two accounts of £363 13s. 8d., and the
collector was instructed to proceed with the collection of the new rate.- The
Surveyor stated that his expenditure for the month was £17 10s. 3d. — It was decided
to paint the steam roller water cart.— Mr. Abberley reported that since the
last meeting he had made a general inspection of the water mains in Broseley
and Jackfield, all of which he found were in good working order.- The Secretary
of the Fire Brigade made application for the annual subscription of £10. — Mr.
Nicklin said he was asked to make a further application for a little assistance
in insuring the men.— Mr. Keay asked if it was a rule with all councillors to
make an allowance, for what was the use of insuring the men and paying the fire
brigade as well?— The Chairman said the Council was not liable.— It was decided
to make a grant of £12 to the brigade.- Mr. Griffiths brought up the question
of the closing of the Coalport ferry boat. He thought there should be a public
road across the river, and thought the Council should take steps in the matter—
Mr. Keay considered there should be a footbridge.— Mr. Griffiths said he had
heard there was a possibility of Messrs. Maw and Co. taking over the boat, but
only to be used for their own work people. He thought a footbridge would cost
£150, and that Madeley Council should join them in the scheme.— Mr. Keay
considered the work should be done by the local bodies.— Mr. Griffiths said the
question was whether they could erect a footbridge and charge toll until it was
paid for.— The Clerk said they would have to obtain an Act of Parliament before
they could take tolls. The river was a highway, and they had no right to throw
anything over it.— The Madeley Wood Company,
the Clerk said, paid £500 for the landing rights on the Jackfield side.-
The Clerk was eventually instructed to write the Company offering them a grant
to keep the boat on.
15th June 1912
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.- Present:- Alderman
A. B. Dyas (chairman) and W. J. Legge, Councillors B. Maddox. W. F.
Bryan, A. F. A Wolryche-Whitmore, W. Roberts, S. R. Maw, R. Clarke, and S.
Jinks, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert
(sanitary inspector), and A. O Callear (water inspector and collector). —
Mr.
Maddox raised the question of the Coalport ferry boat, which had been a means
of passage over the
6th July 1912
ROSE
SHOW.—A successful open rose show was held on Saturday at the Lord Hill, the
proceeds being placed in the Hospital Sunday box. Mr. T. Marlow gave a prize
for the largest number of points. Mr. H. Aston carried out the secretarial
duties with satisfaction. The prize winners were:— 1 J. Coney. 2 W. Shaw, 3 H.
Russell, 4 T. Marlow, special E. Shaw.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present Alderman P. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J.
Nicklin, G. D. Collins, T. I. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, G. Keay, and T. Doughty,
Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector),
E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).— Mr. Herbert
reported the district free from notifiable infectious disease. He also reported
a number of nuisances, and the usual orders were made.— The Clerk reported an
adverse balance on the two accounts of £305 without signing cheques that day.—
Mr. Keay: It is easy to sign cheques, Mr. Chairman. You can sign a cheque for
£1,000, and only have £1 in the bank.— The Chairman having remarked that there
was so much money to come in, Mr. Keay observed that they did not know what was
coming in — they were only certain of death.— After some discussion the
collector was instructed to issue summons against two persons for the
recovering of the water rent.— Mr. Keay considered that the regulations were “rotten”,
and he wished that all the people would apply for a reduction in their
assessment. The people were now living on the verge of bankruptcy.— The
Chairman said that the regulations had been in existence over 20 years. “You
(to Mr. Keay) are doing nothing but disturbing the meeting. Let’s get on to business.
You place me in the chair and won’t give the other members a chance to speak.”
—Mr. Keay: They have spoken.— Mr. Abberley reported that all the water mains at
Broseley and Jackfield were in good working order.— With reference to the
Coalport ferry, the Clerk said that he had written the Madeley Wood Company
about the matter, and had also seen Mr. Oakes from the Madeley Wood Company’s
office, who plainly showed to him that the company had been losing £30 a year.
He had asked Colonel Anstice to keep the ferry open till the end of this month,
which the company were doing. Mr. Doughty said that the boat was 70 years old.—
Mr. Griffiths was of opinion that it would cost about £500 to erect a bridge
over the Severn.— Mr. Nicklin: What can we do in the matter?— Mr. Keay: Let it
die.— The Chairman: You (to Mr. Keay) are rather rude to interrupt another
member when he is speaking!— Dr. Collins observed that if Madeley Council were
willing to help them they might do something.— Mr. Keay: We cannot do what we
like, or else we should have what we like.— Mr. Griffiths said that the present
boat was not safe, and there was no doubt but what the ferry would be closed.—
Mr. Nicklin proposed that the clerk be instructed to ask the Madeley Council to
consider the question with them, with a view of making some arrangement.— Mr.
Doughty seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
6th July 1912
PRESENTATION.—
On Saturday in the school-room Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Jones, on the occasion of
their marriage, were presented with a walnut coal vase and pictures by a number
of the parishoners in recognition of Mr. Jones’s faithful services as postman
of the parish for 15 years. In the absence of the vicar (the Rev. W. A. Terry)
the presentation was made by Mrs. Terry in a few words suitable to the
occasion, and Mr. Jones suitably responded.
CHOIR
TRIP. On Monday the members of the Church Choir, together with the Vicar and
organist, proceeded with the Severn Valley Choir Trip to
13th July 1912
BOARD
OF GUARDIANS, Friday Week.—Present: Mr. J. Clayton (chairman), Revs. E.
Delstrode Pryce, E. Party, Dr. G. D. Collins, Mrs. Lloyd, Messrs. C. Edwards,
G. Windsor, H. Hughes B. A. Rhodes, J. Davies, T. Doughty, G. Keay. C. C. Brunt,
W. J. Legge, J. Parton, J. Simpson, J. E. A. Wolryche-Whitmore, J. E.
Hartshorne. A. A. Exley, A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (clerk), F. W. Derry (deputy clerk)
G. Watson (master), J. C. Mole and W. Edge (relieving officers).— Mr. Shuker’s
(Broseley) tender for supplying the house with bread at 5d. per loaf was accepted.—
The Master reported that the number of vagrants admitted to the house since the
last meeting was 30.— Messrs. Parton and Norgrove reported that they had
visited the house and found everything in good order.— The Clerk informed the
Board that the Devonport nurse had returned her travelling expenses.
DISTRICT COUNCIL.- WEDNESDAY
Present:—.Aldermen
A. B. Dyas (chairman), W. J. Legge, and F. G. Beddoes, Councillors W. F. Bryan.
W. Roberts, W. G. Dyas, B. Maddox, J. Jinks, S. L. Maw, and R. Clarke, with
Messrs. P. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), and H. Herbert (sanitary
inspector)…
Mr.
Maddox moved the resolution of which notice had been given— “To consider the
question of the Coalport Ferry, and move a resolution.” He said that it would
clear the ground for them, having heard what the town clerk had told them, and
seeing that the ferry would close at the end of the month he thought that
immediate steps should be taken to confer with Broseley in view of a passage
being made over the river not with a ferry but with a foot-bridge. He informed
the Council that since the erection of the free bridge it had been in his mind
to obtain a scheme for a footbridge at Coalport, and in November last year an
engineer came down to look at the place and promised to submit a scheme. In
January a sketch was sent down, with an approximate estimate for a footbridge,
showing the cost to be about £250 or possibly less. In a conversation he had
with Mr. W. Griffiths, also Councillor T. Griffiths, they had expressed their
willingness to grant a landing on very easy terms. From what the clerk had said
it had been suggested that the loss of £30 per annum should be made up to the
Madeley Wood Company to continue a ferry boat, but it would be seen that for
about £10 a year in interest a sum could be loaned to carry out a bridge
scheme. In fact, he had been in-formed that a gentleman had been asked some
time ago to prepare data for a footbridge, and he worked out the cost at £150.
He asked the Council to agree to a conference with the members from Broseley,
and moved that the Madeley Council agree to meet them in the same proposition
as the members on the Joint Water Committee.-
Councillor Jinks seconded. — Mr. Maw expressed his approval of some steps
being taken to provide a passage over the river.— Mr. Legge thought that the
number of per-sons could not be numerous who crossed the river seeing that it
did not pay the Madeley Wood Company to run the ferry. He considered that it
was not the time to involve the ratepayers in further cost to erect another
bridge. They had only just paid off the balance on the new bridge. — Mr. Roberts
supported.— Mr. Bryan said that he could see no harm in appointing a committee
to consider and report, but beyond that they must not go. It should be
understood that the committee could only meet and draw up a report. They should
have no authority to spend any money.— The Chairman pointed out to Mr. Bryan
that the terms of the resolution were simply to consider and report.—In reply,
Mr. Maddox pointed out that as the representatives of the people, it was their
bounden duty to do their best in the public interests, and endeavour to provide
means for a safe passage over the river. It was not a pleasant feeling for
those people who had to cross the river in the winter season when the river was
in flood by a worn-out ferry-boat. Of course those who were not placed in such
difficulty had no thought or feeling for other people. He suggested that a
special meeting of the Council be called to consider the report of the
committee.— The motion was carried.
20th July 1912
Letters to the Editor
THE COALPORT FERRY.
In your
last issue is a report of the Madeley District Council’s discussion on the
closing of the Coalport ferry. Some members appear to think that this crossing
is not of importance because of the Madeley Wood Company’s statement that the
boat does not pay. Surely the people have been patient long enough, and now
think it time that the Council should do something to ensure a safe passage for
the workers who live on opposite sides of the river to which their work lies.
It is the duty of the Council to safeguard the ratepayers’ money. But are we
passengers of the ferry not ratepayers? Do they think we should grumble to have
some of our own money spent on ourselves? I guess not! A bridge will not only
benefit the workers, but the tradesmen of the district also.
20th July 1912
EMPLOYEE’S
TRIP.— The office staff of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co. had their annual
trip on Saturday, when they drove to Bridgnorth. The route taken after leaving
the works and Broseley was down the leafy avenue of
3rd August 1912
ROSE
SHOW.— A successful rose show was held on Saturday at the Lord Hill, and was in
every respect a success. Mr. George Potts was judge, and the proceeds will be
devoted towards the hospital fund. Prize winners:— Rose class.—1, J. Boden; 2,
T. Jones; 3, D. Boden. Buttonhole class—1, H Russell, 2,
MARRIAGE
IN AMERICA.— On July 13 at
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
J. Nicklin, T. Doughty, A. A. Exley, T. I. Griffiths, and D. G. Collins,
Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary
inspector), E. Oakes (collector) and E. Abberley (water inspector).— Mr.
Herbert reported the district free from notifiable infectious disease. He also
reported a number of nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.— The Clerk
re-ported an adverse balance on the general district and water accounts of
£276.— Mr. Abberley’s report was considered satisfactory.— After some
conversation Mr. J. Nicklin proposed, “That the recommendation of the joint
sub-committee that a footbridge be erected at Coalport to take the place of the
ferry be adopted.” — Mr. Doughty seconded the motion, which was unanimously carried.
10th August 1912
BOROUGH
COUNCIL. Wednesday.— Present:— Aldermen D. L. Prestage (chairman), T. Cooke. A.
B. Dyas, F. G. Beddoes, J. Davies, and W. J. Legge, Councillors W. G. Dyas, C.
Edwards, W. Roberts, A. A. Exley, R. Clarke. J. Roberts, A. L. Hayes, T.
Morris, W. J. Milner, B. Maddox, W. Bishop, J. Nicklin, and G. D. Collins, Mr.
F. H. Potts (town clerk), and other borough officials.— Mr. Maddox said that
three months ago an order was given to the surveyor to repair the new bridge
and its approaches at Iron-Bridge, but nothing yet have been done. He maintained
that when an order was made in the Council or committee it should be carried
out by their servants.— Alderman Cooke asked if the work was to be done on the
borough account, for he considered that they had no right to spend borough
money on district roads.— Mr. Maddox added that the town clerk had said that
the borough having taken over the bridge, the bridge and landings were the
property of the borough, and they were within their right to repair the same.-
Alderman Cooke still maintained that no district road could be repaired by borough
money.— The Chairman said that the approach to the bridge was a part of the
bridge, and the surveyor was instructed to carry out the work. — The Chairman
said that the borough accounts had been passed, and the bills due and coming
due for the quarter amounted to £495 10s. 6d.; there was a sum in hand of £227,
leaving £267 to be raised by rate. He moved that the accounts be paid, and that
a borough rate of 1½d. in the pound be levied. Alderman Davies seconded the
motion, which was carried. Alderman Cooke presented a report of the visitors to
the Joint Lunatic Asylum, and moved the adoption of the same, which was
seconded by Alderman Davies, and carried.— The Chairman said that they were
indebted to Alderman Cooke for the great interest he took in the work of the
asylum. He (the speaker) paid a visit to the place a short time ago, and was
astonished to see how orderly the whole place was. The inmates were very well
looked after.- Alderman Dyas presented a report of the Main Roads and General
Purposes Committee, which was adopted.— The clerk was instructed to write the
County Council asking for a grant of £75 as the authority’s share from the Road
Board, and if allowed the Council decided to devote it to the proposed improvement
of Iron-Bridge Market Square, the work to be done at once.— The Council agreed
to accept £100 from the County Council towards the upkeep of the Broseley and
Iron-Bridge road, Madeley Sanitary Committee to have £20 and Broseley £80, and
no doubt, Alderman Dyas remarked, the Broseley people would appreciate Madeley’s
kindness. (Laughter.)— Committees were appointed to see to the carrying out of
the alterations at the Iron-Bridge and Much Wenlock Police Stations. The question of appointing an inspector
under the Shop Act was deferred to a special meeting.— The Clerk read the borough
auditor’s report, which was of a satisfactory character. They complimented the
town clerk and rate collectors on the excellent manner in which the books were
kept— Mr. Roberts, in moving the adoption of the report, said that each
collector appeared to have made it a study to keep his book properly as well
efficiently.- In seconding the motion
Alderman Dyas expressed his pleasure at hearing those remarks of the auditor.
—The Clerk was of opinion that all the collectors should in future see that
their books were closed on the 31st of March.— The report was adopted.—The
Chairman said that the next business was to pass a resolution ordering that the
Infectious Disease (notification) Act 1889, should apply within the borough to
cerebro-spinal fever, acute poliomyelitis and pulmonary tuberculosis.—The clerk
said that he had to obtain a resolution of Council, which had to go to the Local
Government Board and they would order the matter to be published.—Alderman
Cooke proposed the above resolution; Alderman Beddoes seconded, and it was carried.
17th August 1912
PROPOSED
FOOTBRIDGE AT COALPORT.- The sub-committee appointed to consider this question
reported that in their opinion a foot-bridge should be erected at Coalport at a
cost not to exceed £250, and that the amount should be borne equally by the
Madeley and Broseley wards.— The Town Clerk stated that the resolution had been
passed by Broseley —Councillor Dyas asked if the amount quoted would be the
total expenditure for bridge and landings, as the report did not make it
clear.— Councillor Bryan said he would like to know if an estimate had been
received for erecting the bridge.— The Chairman formally moved the adoption of
the report.— Mr. Maddox, in seconding said that Broseley had shown a generous
spirit in offering to pay one half of the cost, seeing that their rateable
value amounted to little more than one half of that of Madeley. It might be
that the Broseley working people employed at the different works near to
Coalport would receive the greater benefit. Still the larger question was that
of making provision for all who at any time desired to cross the river. It had
been stated that only a few persons had used the old ferry, but that was caused
by the workpeople choosing to walk the longer distance over the new bridge, and
from the fact that there was no passage sufficiently early for them to get to
their work in a morning. A fairer way to look at the question was if a free passage
were provided, how many persons would it benefit. For a century and a half, he
had been informed, a passage across the river had existed, and this alone
proved the necessity for a bridge. Of one thing he was quite certain, that the
majority of the electors approved of the action that had been taken, and were
in favour of the proposal.- Ald. Leg
said that although, a member of the sub-committee he voted against the
proposal. It had been stated that only 50 people used the old ferry, which
meant that Madeley was asked to spend £125 to benefit from 20 to 25 persons. He
considered the time most in-opportune, as the, rateable value of the ward was
declining. There was a loss of £175 in rates from the Madeley Wood Co. closing
their works. There were two large houses empty at Coalbrookdale. They had
reduced the rate 1d. this year, which meant £80, and in his opinion, there
would be a deficit balance on March 31st of at least £400. He was of opinion
that the Council ought not to further increase its liabilities.— Mr. Bryan said
that. they were indebted to Mr. Legge for the figures he had given with regard
to their financial practice, but he considered that a footbridge was necessary
for people who had to cross to their work, and on these grounds he supported
the adoption of the report, but would like to know if the amount of money
required could be spread over a period for repayment.— Mr. Whitmore agreed with
the last speaker’s remarks.— Mr. Clarke suggested an appeal being made to the
works of Messrs. Maw and Co. also the Coalport China Works. If a sum of money
could be raised in this way it would lighten the burden for the ratepayers.—
Mr. Jenks thought the suggestion a good one, and appealed to Councillor Maddox,
as he had been successful in a previous scheme.— Mr. Roberts said that he had
listened to the gloomy picture drawn by Alderman Legge with regard to their finances,
but surely if Broseley could afford to contribute one half of the cost Madeley
had nothing to fear, and while it was true that some works were closing, there
was a prospect of others opening, and to his mind there was an absolute
necessity for a bridge.— Alderman Beddoes said that he should refrain from
voting unless it could be shown clearly that the sum of £250 was the total
amount to be spent on the bridge and landings, and that no further liability
would be incurred.— In reply to questions Mr. Maddox said that an engineer from
the Hennebique Ferro-Concrete Co., visited the site last November, and
submitted an estimate with plans of a foot bridge consisting of a complete span over the river, the roadway to
be five feet wide. The question of landings had been gone into some time ago,
and Mr. Bruff kindly consented to find a landing on the Madeley side. Mr.
Sydney Maw also offered a landing on the Jackfield side. Since then, Mr. W.
Griffiths had expressed his willingness to assist by allowing a landing on his
ground. The question of spreading the rest over a period had been under
consideration by the committee, and there would be no difficulty in making
arrangements for this to be done.— On the question being put to the meeting,
Messrs. Whitmore, Maddox ,Jinks, Roberts, and Bryan, voted for the adoption of
the report, Ald. Legge and Mr. Clarke against, and Alderman Beddoes and Mr. W.
Dyas were neutral.
7th September 1912
DISTRICT
COUNCIL.- Present Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin,
and T. I. Griffiths, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H.
Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (collector), and E. Abberley (water
inspector).- A letter was read from the London and North-Western Railway
offices in London with reference to the complaint of the rapid speed at which
the company’s motor-dray was driven through Broseley and Jackfield. The Company
promised to look into the matter at once.— Mr. Herbert reported the district
free from notifiable infectious disease. — The meeting was pleased to hear this
statement.- The Officer also reported a number of nuisances, which were ordered
to be abated. — The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand of £104 on
the general district rate account, and an adverse balance of £104 on the water
account.— The Chairman remarked that their position had improved since the last
meeting, but there was still outstanding on the general district rate account
the sum of £193.— Mr. Oakes presented a big list of rate defaulters, which was
carefully gone through by the members, and the collector received the usual
instructions to take proceedings for the recovery of the rate.— The Surveyor
informed the meeting that his expenditure for the work was £19 9s. 4d. His
application to order 600 tons of stone for the roads in the ward was allowed.
He was also instructed to order a snowplough. —Mr. Abberley reported that all
the water mains in the district were in good order.— With reference to the
proposed new footbridge at Coalport in the place of the old ferry, the Clerk
stated that the Madeley District Council had decided to meet the Broseley
Council to discuss matters and make arrangements for the carrying out of the proposal.—
Mr. Griffiths asked if the Madeley Wood Company would allow someone to have the
use of the ferry-boat in the meantime by paying a nominal sum for the landing
rights.- The Clerk: Is the boat safe? I think the Madeley Wood Company would
lend the boat, but would take no risk.- Mr. Griffiths believed that the men who
had been looking after the boat would take the risk and pay for the landing. He
would be contented to take what he could get.— The Clerk said that he would
write Colonel Anstice on the matter.
21st September 1912
DEATH
OF AN OLD RINGMASTER.- There was buried
on Monday at the Cemetery a well-known figure in the of Abraham Bezman, who was
one time ringmaster to the Lord John Sanger. Relatives and attended the funeral
HOSPITAL
SUNDAY.- parade of the Broseley and District Friendly Societies was held on
Sunday afternoon. A procession was formed near the Mission Hall, Broseley Wood,
marching thence through the principal streets to the
21st September 1912
JACKFIELD RECTOR’S DEATH,
THE LATE REV. R. DE RICCI.
A gloom
was cast over the
On
Monday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry at the Rectory. Before the jury
viewed the body the Coroner remarked that he was voicing the sentiments and
feelings of the jury in sympathising with the family of the late rector in
their sudden bereavement.
Colonel
R. H. Morrison,
Laura
Elsie Bowen, domestic servant, Jackfield Rectory, stated that on the previous
Friday she saw the rector in bed. He made no complaint, although she thought he
looked very ill. Mrs. de Ricci
told her that deceased had a bad leg and was staying in bed to rest it. He took
his meals as usual. On Saturday witness thought that the rector looked much
better, having more colour. He had no tea that day, but she tooks his supper on
about 7 o’clock in the evening, and he ate it all right. About ten minutes to
nine Mrs. de Ricci rang the bedroom bell, and witness went directly upstairs
and found the master lying on his face on the landing. He was groaning. She
called the cook, Sarah Fletcher, who came immediately, and between them they
lifted him on his back. They propped him up with pillows on the landing where
he fell and covered him. The rector kept saying “I’m fainting.” Witness
immediately went for Dr. Edwards.
Sarah
Fletcher cook at the Rectory, gave evidence as to being present in one of the
rooms with Mrs. de Ricci when the rector suddenly expired.
Dr. Fox
Edwards said that the cause of death was heart failure.
The
jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.
The funeral
of the rev. gentleman took place on Wednesday amid every manifestation of
sorrow. Every house in the village had drawn blinds, and at the Tumbling Sailors
the Union Jack floated at half-mast. The remains were interred in
21st September 1912
THE
MARRIAGE took place at
28th September 1912
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Mr. J. H. A. Whitley
(Mayor), Alderman T. Cooke, and Captain the Hon. Geo. Forester.
TRANSFERS.—The
license of the Three Tuns, Iron-Bridge was transferred to Mr. Geo, Williams;
the Red Lion, Madeley, to Mr. J. Richards; and the Talbot Inn, Broseley, to Mr.
Thos. Davies.
No
LIGHT.— William Rutter, the eleven-year-old son of Samuel Rutter, fishmonger,
Broseley, was charged with driving a vehicle without a light.— Police-constable
Churm said that when he was in Waterloo Street, Iron-Bridge, he saw a horse and
cart coming in the direction of the free bridge. There was no light; he stopped
the horse, and asked why there was no light. Defendant replied that he did not
know that the light was out.— Defendant pleaded guilty, stating that he had
taken some furniture to Kemberton for Mrs. Scott.— The mother of the lad said
that the father was not well, and that was the reason the lad was in charge of
the lorry. He should never go out again with it.—The Bench considered the
practice dangerous, and made an order on the father to pay the costs.
DRUNKENNESS.—
William Jones was charged with being drunk and disorderly at Broseley. — John
Hoff, ironworker, Dawley, stated that on a Sunday night he was coming on a
bicycle from Linley Brook, and when near the
28th September 1912
PRESENTATION.—
A pleasing function took place at the Boat Inn on Saturday, when Mr. J. B.
Williams, jun., who is emigrating to
12th October 1912
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Councillor J. Nicklin presided.— The business transacted
was purely of a routine character.—The Chairman said that he had been petitioned
by some people to light up Ball’s Lane.—The meeting instructed the surveyor
(Mr. Geo. Stevenson) to obtain estimates for the carrying out of the work.
DEATH
or MR. H LLOYD.— On Saturday Mr. Henry Lloyd died at his residence, the
Pheasant Hotel. Deceased, who was 54 years of age, had been employed as clerk
in the offices of Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd., Jackfield, about 42 years, and was
greatly esteemed. He was a keen sportsman, having taken a great interest in
local cricket and football for some years. He had been a member of the “Rose of
Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows for many years, and a contingent from the lodge
attended the funeral, which took place in the Parish Church-yard on Wednesday,
the service in the church and at the graveside being conducted by the Rev. A.
C. Howell (rector). The address prescribed by the I.O.O., was delivered by Mr.
W. Price (C.S.). The deceased leaves a wife and four children. The mourners
were:— Harley, Herric, and Leslie (sons), Marion (daughter), Mr. Charles Lloyd
(brother), Mrs. Attwood (sister). Mrs. Hollyoake (sister), Messrs. Edwin Davis
(Homer), H. Wase, Ernest A. Wase, Ed-win Ryalls, Stephen Ryalls, Osborne Ryalls,
Edwin Francis (cousins), Mr. and Mrs. Beddle (brother-in-law and
sister-in-law), also a large gathering of friends, among whom were:— Messrs. S.
Hill, J. H. Rushton, P. A. Dixon, I. H.
Onions, W. Instone, W. Bowyer, A. Wilde (Benthall), G. Roberts (Coneybury), J.
E. Smith (representing the Broseley Excelsior Cricket Club), Mr. Isaac Cross
(representing Benthall Junior F.C.), Mr. Smithies (Rochdale), W. Watkins, Mr.
Moore (Duke of York), W. Penson, F. Powell (Willey), J. Curran (Linley), J. T.
Williams, E. Stephan (Coalport), J. Watkins, P. Mason (Iron-Bridge), W.
Bennett, F. Price, A. Leadbetter, H. Watkins, J. Ball (Jackfield), Thomas
Jones, G. Cadwallader, G. V. Cox, G. Moore (Queen Street), T. Marlow (Lord
Hill), P. Blackford (Benthall), H. Haynes, V. Aston, T. Cox, D. Potts, J. Norry, W. Taylor, A. Watson, F.
Potts, J. Seabury, and Joseph Jones (Fox Lane). A large number of beautiful
wreaths were contributed by relatives and friends, including one from the
Broseley Excelsior Cricket Club and one from the Benthall Junior Football Club.
5th October 1912
BROSELEY SEPTUAGENARIAN’S
DEATH. At Broseley on Wednesday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry
touching the death of Samuel Lears, Lloyd’s Head, Jackfield, which occurred at
the
Samuel
Lewis, jun., (son, of deceased), said that his father was 71 years of age and was
a labourer, but had not worked for some years. Deceased went to
Edward
Roper, foreman porter at Iron-Bridge Station, said that he was on the plat-form
when the train came into the station. His attention was called to a door being
opened, and he walked along the platform to this compartment, and found a cap on
the seat. The compartment was empty. Witness passed down the platform to the
rear of the train, and a young lady passenger told him that she saw a man fall
out of the compartment a quarter-of-a-mile from the station. He then went along
the line with two others in the direction of
William
Christopher, stationmaster, Buildwas stated that he saw the train at Buildwas
station which he started. All the doors of the carriages were closed when the
train left.
Louisa
Poole, nursing sister at the
Dr. J.
G. Boon said that deceased had three ribs broken on the right side and two on
the left and extensive cuts on the top of his head which necessitated ten
stitches. The case was serious from the first.
Agnes
Walters, a married daughter of de-ceased, stated that when she saw her father
in the hospital on Monday he was quite conscious, and she asked him how he met
with the accident, and whether the door was shut or opened, and he replied ‘‘Open.”
Inspector
David Evans (
The
verdict of the jury was “That deceased accidentally fell out of the train, and
died from the injuries received.”
12th October 1912
PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY .
No
LIGHTS.—The Rev. J. W. Reader, curate, Willey was charged with riding a bicycle
with-out a light.— Police-constable Edwards stated; that about 9 p.m. on a
Sunday night he met the rev. gentleman riding a bicycle on the highway leading
from Willey Lodge to the Dean without a light. He stopped defendant. and asked
him why he had no light, and he replied that it was a nice night, and he did
not know the light was out.—Defendant told the Bench the same story, and the
case was dismissed with a caution. Henry Reynolds, general dealer, Broseley,
was charged with driving a vehicle without any light.— Police constable Edwards
stated that he saw defendant driving a horse attached to a lorry on a Saturday
night without a light.—Defendant’s wife appeared, and remarked that they were
returning from the Bridgnorth Market, and the light went out at the top of the
New Road.- Defendant was fined 18s., including costs.
26th October 1912
THE
RECTORSHIP. — The Rev. R. Gillenders (curate of Madeley), has been offered and
has accepted the living of Jackfield, vacant through the sudden demise of the
Rev. de Ricci. The Rev. R. Gillenders, who is a powerful preacher, was formerly
rector of Kilcooley,
19th October 1912
PROPOSED BACON FACTORY.
With
the object of starting a bacon factory in the district Mr. A. Corner on Tuesday
came down from
Captain
the Hon. George Forester presided, and was supported by Messers. W. Bishop, J.
Nicklin, and Shuker (secretary).
The
Chairman at the outset remarked that this was not a political gathering, but a meeting
convened for the purpose of trying to improve that industry which was most
vital to the welfare of every country, namely, agriculture. (Applause.) They
had heard a great deal of talk lately about our Navy and Army, but in his
opinion it was no good to pay large sums of money for the upkeep o the Army and
Navy if they were going to be starved out. (Applause.) He could never make out
why the statesmen of either party had not brought this question more to the
front than they had done. It was absolutely necessary to the safety of the
Empire that they should be able to feed themselves for a certain period.
(Applause.) As long as the world went on, war was certain to be a factor that
they could not dismiss from their minds. The very first thing a general in
command of any Army did if landed in a foreign country, was to provide for the
feeding of his troops. In their insular position there was no denying the fact
that four-fifths of the food supply came over the sea in steamships, and he
thought it was about time that that condition should cease, and that there
should be more co-operation amongst the home farmers and small holders to
effect this. (Applause.) The number of acres under wheat in this island in 1871
was 8,700,000, but in 1911, with an increased population it had shrunk to
1,800,000; thus they would plainly see that agriculture had been decaying; and
it was a matter of history that when once a nation allowed its agriculture to decay
it meant that the end of that nation as an empire, or first-class power, was in
sight. (Hear, hear.) He advised them to put their heads together to see what,
could be done, without bringing politics into the question, to improve what was
certainly the first industry of any country, and thus they would be doing a
great thing for our Motherland and this great empire. (Applause.)
Mr.
Corner then addressed the meeting. He said he was exceedingly fortunate because
he had listened to a speech with which he entirely agreed. The chairman had
covered a lot of ground, because he had studied the question for years. He was
sure that the Captain’s heart was in the matter, and that he would do his best
to bring about an improved state of affairs.(Applause.) He believed that the
landlords had the power practically to revolutionise, in a quiet way, the
condition of affairs in
The Chairman
asked the meeting if they would like to have a factory erected in Broseley, but
there was no reply.
Votes
of thanks were passed to the lecturer and the chairman.
9th November 1912
DISTRICT
COUNCIL. Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Lord
Forester, Councillors G. B. Collins, T. J. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, J. Nicklin,
and G. Keay, Messrs. F. E. Potts (town clerk). C. Stevenson (surveyor), H.
Herbert (sanitary inspector), P. Oakes (collector), and
16th November 1912
TOWN COUNCIL
The
annual meeting of the Wenlock Borough Council was held on Saturday at the
Guildhall; present:- Councillor J. H. A. Whitley (mayor), Lord Forester, Alderman
A. B. Dyas, T. Cooke, G. Lloyd, F. G. Beddoes, W. J. Legge, D. L. Prestage, J.
Davies, Captain George Forester, Councillors W. Bishop, W. G. Dyas, B. Maddox,
F. Bagnall, G. Keay, T. J. Griffiths. J. Jenks, A. L. Hayes, J. E. A.
Wolryche-Whitmore, S. R. Maw, J. Nicklin, W. Roberts, W. F. Bevan, A. A. Exley,
C. Edwards, T. Morris, W. J. Milner, and J. Roberts, with Messrs. F. H. Potts
(town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), N. Herbert (sanitary inspector), A. H.
Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’ clerk), and J. S. Barker (borough treasurer).
A
report of the election of Councillor Bishop as Mayor appears in another column.
The Clerk stated that the quarterly bills amounted to £560 7s. 8d.; there was a
sum of £277 11s. in hand, which left the sum of £282 16s. 8d. to be raised by a
rate.— Alderman Davies proposed that the accounts be paid, and that a borough
rate of 1½d. in the pound be levied.— Mr. Whiteley seconded, and the motion was
carried.
The
Mayor said that the next business was to receive the report of the visitors to
the Asylum.— Alderman Cooke said that there was no formal report to bring
before them respecting the Asylum, and referred to the increased cost of 2s.
per head during the last 20 years caused
through the increased price of
articles, over which, of course, they had no control.- Mr. W. Roberts
proposed that the report be adopted, and that Messrs. Cooke and Whitley be
re-elected visitors to the Asylum.— Captain George Forrester seconded the
motion, which was carried.
It was
decided unanimously to increase the salary of Mr. H. Herbert, sanitary inspector,
£10 a year in consequence of increased duties under the Housing and Town Planning
Act, and to appoint him inspector under the Shops Act at a salary of £5.
In
reply to Mr. Maddox, the Clerk stated that there was probably a balance in hand
from the Education Committee of £1,200; but the committee had decided to
transfer £.1,000 to the borough fund, to be devoted to the Asylum loan
account.— Alderman Cooke thought that the Elementary Education Committee were
deserving of congratulation to turn over such a respectable balance. They had
done their best for the children and looked after the finances of the borough.
(Applause.)— Mr. Maddox thought that they should all know what balance there
was in hand, and he hoped now that the mightier authority would do the work
better and cheaper, and he contended that the sum of £2,000 should come back to
the borough fund, and that the ratepayers of the borough should thereby
benefit.
Captain
Forester referred to the bad condition of the road to the Sanatorium, and
ex-pressed the opinion that the borough should send a deputation to the County
Council, asking for a substantial grant for the repair of the road.— Mr. Maddox
was of opinion that before they went to the County Council the borough should
do something towards the road.— Captain Forester said that the County Council
were willing to give £400 provided the borough put down another £400. He
pointed out to them that this was a county institution, and he did not see why
the borough should be called upon to pay one farthing. (Hear, hear.)— Mr.
Edwards moved that a deputation be appointed to approach the County Council on
the matter.— Alderman Davies seconded.— Alderman Cooke said that the County
Council looked upon this institution as private, and could not grant £800 to a
body that did not represent the County Council.- Mr. Maddox thought the best
thing to do was to appoint a committee, and then a deputation. He did not think
that the County Council should find the whole sum, for it was a road in a
particular ward of that borough.— Alderman Beddoes thought it would be well for
them to wait the result of the meeting that day at Shrewsbury before they
arrived at anything.— Captain Forester considered that a wise suggestion.— The
motion was, however, carried.
Mr.
Maddox brought up the question of the proposed new footbridge across the
23rd November 1912
PUBLICAN HANGS HIMSELF.
On
Wednesday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry into the death of John Boddington
Spalding (58), landlord of the Cape of Good Hope Inn, Broseley, who committed
suicide by hanging on Monday night.
Samuel
Spalding (brother), licensee of the Compasses Inn, Burton-on-Trent, said that
he had received letters from deceased stating that he had trouble with his
wife; but witness had not seen deceased since August last.
Harry
Russel, present tenant of the Cape Inn, deposed that he saw deceased about
10-30 on Monday night. He was sober and appeared all right. Deceased’s wife
went away a week ago. Spalding took to drink some time since, and a fortnight
ago witness heard him say that he would hang himself on account of trouble with
his wife, who drank heavily.
Police-constable
Edwards stated that about 9-30 on. Tuesday morning he was called by Messrs.
Alleopp’s (brewers) representative, Mr. G. E. Finch,
Edward
Wilde, cowkeeper, Benthall, stated that he called with the milk on Tuesday
morning, but the place was locked up. He was present when Police-constable Edwards
cut down the body. On Monday deceased asked witness to get the rope produced to
pack a box to send to his wife.
The
jury returned a verdict of “Suicide whilst temporarily insane.”
23rd November 1912
TUESDAY.- Before Messrs. W. Bishop (mayor), A, B. Dyas.
W. Roberts, F. R. Smith, W. J. Legge, F. G. Beddoes, J. Davies, and B. Maddox.
WELCOMED.-
Mr. F. R. Smith, in welcoming the new Mayor (Mr. Bishop) on the Bench, remarked
that this was the first time that he (Mr. Bishop) had ever attended a police
court in any shape or form, but they hoped to see him with them often during
his year of office. They all knew his qualifications, and he was sure they
could not have made a better choice for mayor. (Applause.)— The Mayor,
returning thanks, expressed the hope that would never have more to do than was
before him that morning.
FIRST
CASE DISMISSED.— William Williams, labourer, Jackfield, was charged with being
drunk.— Police-constable Reeves stated that he found defendant lying in the
road by Ladywood. When he picked him up he found that defendant was drunk, but
he was very civil.— The Mayor told the wife, who appeared, that as this was his
first case it would be dismissed.
LICENSING.
- Harry Russell, full-back for Iron-Bridge Football Club, made application for
the transfer of the
30th November 1912
FORESTER COTTAGE HOSPITAL.
Mach
credit is due to Captain the Hon. Geo. Forester for successfully persuading the
Lady Forester Trust, of which he is Chairman of the Board of Management, to go
in for radium treatment, and on Wednesday before a large and representative assembly
Mrs. George Forester (wife of Captain Forester) opened two wards at the
Broseley Hospital for patients under radium treatment.
After
prayer by the Rev. A. C. Howell (rector), Dr. J. G. Boon (house surgeon), in introducing
Mrs. Forester, said: I beg to ex-press, on behalf of the medical staff, our
gratitude to the Lady Forester Trustees for their kindness in supplying us with
this radium. I think I am safe in saying that we have the third, if not the second,
largest quantity in the
Mrs.
Forester then opened the door of the wards with a gold key and expressed the
pleasure it gave her to do so, saying that she earnestly hoped, they would
prove a great benefit to mankind. (Applause.) Master P. G. Boon afterwards
presented Mrs. Forester with a beautiful bouquet, which that lady acknowledged.
Sir J.
B. Bowen-Jones said that he had the privilege of proposing a vote of thanks to
Mrs. Forester for having opened the new wards at the hospital. The Forester
family, he said, had always been honourably associated with all charitable and
good work, particularly so in that neighbourhood. (Applause). There was a
similar hospital to this at Much Wenlock, and there was the Llandudno
Convalescent Home, founded by the Forester family and within the last two or
three years Lord Forester had presented that magnificent site at Shirlett for
the Sanatorium, a site that was not surpassed by any other in the
The
Mayor, in seconding the proposition, also referred to the good qualities of
Mrs. Forester. He said that they had an excellent staff at the hospital, and he
had been told by a patient that no one could be treated better than they were
at the Lady Forester Hospitals. (Applause.) — The motion was carried with
acclamation.
In
returning thanks, Captain Forester remarked that some two or three years ago,
he was so much impressed with what a friend of his had told him of this
wonderful mineral that he persuaded his co-trustees and Charity Commissioners
to allow them to expend some money on radium, and after they had got it, they
did not want to run any risks of other patients getting the malignant disease,
so he obtained permission to put up these little wards, so that they could be
treated quite apart from the rest of the hospital, which perhaps would save a
great deal. (Applause.) Although he had been laid up for a few days, and was
unable to attend the political meeting, he was determined to come to the
hospital that day, as be was chairman of the Board of Management, and try to forward
the work of which they had been so pleased to show their appreciation (Hear,
hear ) He would like to say that their capital fund at the end of 1905 was
£336,000, and today they were down to £280,000.
Mr. T.
C Shingler, the indefatigable secretary, informed the gathering that Lord Forester
would like to present everyone that day with a souvenir of the proceedings,
which he then handed round.
Tea was
served in the men’s ward, which was tastefully decorated for the occasion and
presented a cheerful appearance. Miss Raynor (matron) conducted this part of
the proceedings, which was thoroughly enjoyed. After the tea Dr. Boon showed
the visitors the radium, and explained the records and results.
The new
radium wards are intended for patients suffering from malignant disease, and
have been erected by the trustees and Hospitals Board of Management, with the
sanction of the Charity Commissioners, out of certain funds belonging to the
Lady Forester Trust. There are two wards, each with two beds, with a nurse’s
duty-room separating them. Each ward has cubical contents of 3,100 feet, and a
floor space of 210 square feet. The cost of the building is about £299, which
works out at slightly less than 5d. per cubic foot, and the whole of the work
has been carried out by local workmen employed by the Hospitals Board. Broseley
bricks and tiles have been used, and all fittings were purchased locally.