A HISTORY OF FEATHERSTONE
1930
A DISPUTE OVER PRIORITIES
The Government stipulated where grants were given for assisted schemes
for the relief of unemployment, 75% of the workmen should be
ex-Servicemen. At the January council meeting Cr Garritty protested and
said he thought it was time ex-Servicemen should take their chance with
the rest of the unemployed. There were many men in Featherstone who had
rendered similar service to those who fought in the War. At least the
percentage ought to be 50-50.
Cr Bush, an ex-Serviceman, said it was time this question of
ex-Servicemen or not was dropped. What about those who joined up, and
were ready to go at a moment's notice, but were sent back to work in the
pits? Were they to be penalised now for having done their duty then?
Cr Sharratt said there were hundreds of men in Featherstone who did
their duty in the pits, just as much as the men did at the Front. They
would have gone abroad if they had not been told to get coal. There
should be no ex-Service qualification in unemployment schemes. The
chairman, Cr Coult, thought they might get the proportion reduced to
50-50, and the council decided to press for that alteration.
The council got a grant in March to level The Green on the Purston council house estate, and 18 men and six horses and carts were put to work. The men complained they were being paid less than those on similar work at Pontefract and Castleford. Their spokesman attended the April council meeting and said one man was only 1s 2d a week better off than on the dole (presumably because of a lot of children). The chairman pointed out the wages were the same as the council's regular workers, and they were bound by agreement with the Ministry of Health not to pay any more. The work was completed in June at a cost of £503. Grass seed had been applied and the residents round it were asked to keep off until the grass was established.
The council got a grant in March to level The Green on the Purston council house estate, and 18 men and six horses and carts were put to work. The men complained they were being paid less than those on similar work at Pontefract and Castleford. Their spokesman attended the April council meeting and said one man was only 1s 2d a week better off than on the dole (presumably because of a lot of children). The chairman pointed out the wages were the same as the council's regular workers, and they were bound by agreement with the Ministry of Health not to pay any more. The work was completed in June at a cost of £503. Grass seed had been applied and the residents round it were asked to keep off until the grass was established.
A DISTRESS FUND DISPUTE
There were resignations last December from the administrators of the
Featherstone Coalfields Distress Committee over the limitations on who
could be helped. This was followed by accusations those remaining were
withholding money, said to be £1,500, instead of giving relief. Messrs
Rogers and Bush wrote to the Express repudiating this allegation.
In January the Express interviewed
Cr Sharratt, chairman of the committee, and Cr Coult, chairman of the council, and both denied there was any withholding of relief in the
proper meaning of the word. They said all the members of the committee
were anxious to include other cases of distress than those at present
allowed.
If
they expended the balance available and the restrictions were relaxed,
the object of all the members would be defeated. If nothing was heard
about their request to grant vouchers for other than women and children
in the next few days the committee would be called together, and a fresh list of cases in accordance with the present conditions would be drawn up.
Ben Dakin, the secretary, told the Express in February the committee had never had £1,500 for allocation. The most they had was £1,200 and 247 families were given relief during the Christmas period. The amount for disposal was now £700 and it was decided to deal with all remaining know cases of distress which were eligible under the scheme.
He said all the members of the committee were as sympathetic as those members who had resigned to the cases of distress which did not come within the scope of the scheme, but the committee was bound by the regulations, and would continue to do its best for those who were eligible.
By the end of March the committee had received £2,700 and 1,300 vouchers had been distributed. £2,250 had already been spent and there were more than enough legitimate claims to exhaust the balance.
In May it was announced the work of the committee would cease. Since Christmas vouchers to the value of £2,657 had been granted and 1,500 families had been relieved. About 240 recipients were from homes where the husband was totally unemployed, and in these cases where want was proved a second lot of vouchers was given.
PURSTON HALL ESTATE
Cr Darlington opposed the proposal to buy the estate. He said the financial position of the council was such they could not afford the purchase. Could not the welfare committee make provision for recreation? The miners contributed to the Welfare Fund, and it was not fair they should also have to pay through the rates for facilities which might be provided from the fund.
Cr Sharratt said the matter had been fully discussed in committee, and he thought they all agreed the time was over-ripe for a public park. The money could be borrowed on a 30 years' lease. The welfare committee had not at present sufficient money to develop the schemes already approved.
Cr Rodgers said if they could get the estate for their offer they would be doing very well. If they got the money to be repaid in 30 years, the principal and interest repayment would amount to a rate of 1d, and the benefit derived would be well worth it. Purston Hall was one of the most beautiful parks in the district and would help the children to develop a love of nature. Nobody would second Cr Darlington so the proposal stood.
After lengthy negotiations, finally in July Tommy Sides accepted £3,600. The permission of the Ministry of Health would have to be obtained, but it was considered as there had already been a public inquiry this would be forthcoming. In September the Ministry of Health gave permission for the council to borrow the money.
The council opened negotiations with the Public Works Loans Board, but then the West Riding Superannuation Joint Committee offered to lend the full amount at 5% interest. In October the council decided to accept that offer and not proceed with the Public Works Loan Board.
The seal of the council was affixed to the purchase in December and arrangements were made with the tenants of the hall and park. Mr Hughs was requested to move his haystacks before the end of next January.
Ben Dakin, the secretary, told the Express in February the committee had never had £1,500 for allocation. The most they had was £1,200 and 247 families were given relief during the Christmas period. The amount for disposal was now £700 and it was decided to deal with all remaining know cases of distress which were eligible under the scheme.
He said all the members of the committee were as sympathetic as those members who had resigned to the cases of distress which did not come within the scope of the scheme, but the committee was bound by the regulations, and would continue to do its best for those who were eligible.
By the end of March the committee had received £2,700 and 1,300 vouchers had been distributed. £2,250 had already been spent and there were more than enough legitimate claims to exhaust the balance.
In May it was announced the work of the committee would cease. Since Christmas vouchers to the value of £2,657 had been granted and 1,500 families had been relieved. About 240 recipients were from homes where the husband was totally unemployed, and in these cases where want was proved a second lot of vouchers was given.
PURSTON HALL ESTATE
The council revealed in January they had held talks with Tommy Sides, the
owner of Purston Hall and Park, about its possible purchase by the council. No details were given but the council decided to ask Normanton
Council the cost of the upkeep of their park.
Cr Edwards asked at the February meeting if the council were definitely
pledged to purchase the Purston Hall Estate. The clerk replied the
purchase depended upon the price asked, and the consent of the
authorities. At the March meeting it was announced Tommy Sides had asked
for £4,300 for the Purston Park Estate, and the council had offered
£3,500 after receiving the district valuer's report.Cr Darlington opposed the proposal to buy the estate. He said the financial position of the council was such they could not afford the purchase. Could not the welfare committee make provision for recreation? The miners contributed to the Welfare Fund, and it was not fair they should also have to pay through the rates for facilities which might be provided from the fund.
Cr Sharratt said the matter had been fully discussed in committee, and he thought they all agreed the time was over-ripe for a public park. The money could be borrowed on a 30 years' lease. The welfare committee had not at present sufficient money to develop the schemes already approved.
Cr Rodgers said if they could get the estate for their offer they would be doing very well. If they got the money to be repaid in 30 years, the principal and interest repayment would amount to a rate of 1d, and the benefit derived would be well worth it. Purston Hall was one of the most beautiful parks in the district and would help the children to develop a love of nature. Nobody would second Cr Darlington so the proposal stood.
After lengthy negotiations, finally in July Tommy Sides accepted £3,600. The permission of the Ministry of Health would have to be obtained, but it was considered as there had already been a public inquiry this would be forthcoming. In September the Ministry of Health gave permission for the council to borrow the money.
The council opened negotiations with the Public Works Loans Board, but then the West Riding Superannuation Joint Committee offered to lend the full amount at 5% interest. In October the council decided to accept that offer and not proceed with the Public Works Loan Board.
The seal of the council was affixed to the purchase in December and arrangements were made with the tenants of the hall and park. Mr Hughs was requested to move his haystacks before the end of next January.
Tommy Sides. A Leeds Mercury photo.
UNDERNOURISHED CHILDREN
Dr Lawrence of the West Riding Education
Department made an inspection of Featherstone's schools, and at a
meeting of the Featherstone education sub-committee in February it was
said they had no option but to put into force the Provision of Meals Act
at George Street Boys' School and probably Regent Street Girls' School.
The doctor's report stated in 1928 out of 446 boys examined at George
Street 30% were found to be suffering from malnutrition. Milk and cod
liver oil was supplied but the latest examination showed the figure for
malnutrition had gone up to 71%. He asked the committee to face the
facts and said nothing less than the provision of meals would meet the
situation. It was decided to serve a mid-day meal at George Street, and
any cases of malnutrition in boys at other schools would be dealt with
there.
The doctor told the committee it was a peculiar feature girls from the
same homes as George Street boys were in a better condition than the
boys. It was agreed if necessary to set up a feeding centre for girls at
Regent Street School.
To prevent the cost of free milk running out of control the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee recommended it should be limited to expectant mothers only in the last month of pregnancy; to children up to one year of age in cases of illness; and to other expectant mothers and children up to five years in special necessitous cases and special cases of illness; all to comply with the scale governing income.
At the March meeting it was said the feeding had not begun, and the Miners' Welfare Hall was the only suitable building but it was used as the local Labour Exchange. Now the pits were working better perhaps the Labour Exchange could use a smaller room. The Labour Exchange did move - to the Sunday School room behind the Primitive Methodist Chapel on North Featherstone Lane. One month later the feeding of the children had still not started and the committee decided to protest against the delay to the County Committee.
Work went ahead to adapt the large hall at the Welfare Institute and at the end of April it was hoped the provision of meals would begin shortly. Some members said it was nearly three months since the recommendation to put the Act into force, and since then many of the children recommended by the doctor had improved materially.
In May, 14 weeks after the decision was made, the feeding of the schoolchildren began. About 280 children had a dinner of meat and potato pie in the Welfare Hall, cooked and served by volunteer Featherstone women. About 70 infants went to the Salvation Army Barracks in Post Office Road, and those children who qualified at the National School in North Featherstone were fed at their own school.
It was generally acknowledged the need was less than it was all those weeks ago and the Express commented "A representative met a party of infants on their way to the Salvation Army Barracks and was struck not only by their cleanliness but by their general appearance and, in many cases, by their rosy cheeks. There was little if any sign to the lay observer of malnutrition, whatever may have been the cases 14 weeks ago".
The provision of dinners was suspended during the summer holiday, and the Featherstone education sub-committee decided to ask the West Riding Education Committee for a re-examination of the pupils. When the schools resumed if was found the number of volunteer women helpers had fallen to such a level the feeding could not be resumed so it was postponed and an appeal for helpers was made. After one week's delay the feeding resumed.
At the November meeting it was announced the re-examination had begun. Cr Evans said some children went to where the dinners were served and if they did not like the particular meal for the day they went home to dinner. If the parents could provide dinners on these days could they not provide them altogether? it was decided to await the report on the re-examination before taking any action.
To prevent the cost of free milk running out of control the Maternity and Child Welfare Committee recommended it should be limited to expectant mothers only in the last month of pregnancy; to children up to one year of age in cases of illness; and to other expectant mothers and children up to five years in special necessitous cases and special cases of illness; all to comply with the scale governing income.
At the March meeting it was said the feeding had not begun, and the Miners' Welfare Hall was the only suitable building but it was used as the local Labour Exchange. Now the pits were working better perhaps the Labour Exchange could use a smaller room. The Labour Exchange did move - to the Sunday School room behind the Primitive Methodist Chapel on North Featherstone Lane. One month later the feeding of the children had still not started and the committee decided to protest against the delay to the County Committee.
Work went ahead to adapt the large hall at the Welfare Institute and at the end of April it was hoped the provision of meals would begin shortly. Some members said it was nearly three months since the recommendation to put the Act into force, and since then many of the children recommended by the doctor had improved materially.
In May, 14 weeks after the decision was made, the feeding of the schoolchildren began. About 280 children had a dinner of meat and potato pie in the Welfare Hall, cooked and served by volunteer Featherstone women. About 70 infants went to the Salvation Army Barracks in Post Office Road, and those children who qualified at the National School in North Featherstone were fed at their own school.
It was generally acknowledged the need was less than it was all those weeks ago and the Express commented "A representative met a party of infants on their way to the Salvation Army Barracks and was struck not only by their cleanliness but by their general appearance and, in many cases, by their rosy cheeks. There was little if any sign to the lay observer of malnutrition, whatever may have been the cases 14 weeks ago".
The provision of dinners was suspended during the summer holiday, and the Featherstone education sub-committee decided to ask the West Riding Education Committee for a re-examination of the pupils. When the schools resumed if was found the number of volunteer women helpers had fallen to such a level the feeding could not be resumed so it was postponed and an appeal for helpers was made. After one week's delay the feeding resumed.
At the November meeting it was announced the re-examination had begun. Cr Evans said some children went to where the dinners were served and if they did not like the particular meal for the day they went home to dinner. If the parents could provide dinners on these days could they not provide them altogether? it was decided to await the report on the re-examination before taking any action.
THE BULLOCK BROTHERS DISPUTE
Ernest Bullock appealed against last December's decision which turned
down his claim for damages against his three brothers, James, John and
Abraham. At the Court of Appeal in March Mr D N Pritt KC said all the
brothers were directors of the company, but by the articles his client
was director for life with a paramount position. What he complained of
was the three brothers had, in spite of his protests, passed a
resolution for voluntarily winding up and so deprived him of his
position.
The
father of the parties had a cab and fruit and fish dealer's business
out of which the business of the company grew. It was a very small
affair, and when the father died in 1900 his six sons were engaged in it
as partners with very small salaries. £150 was paid to one brother, and
£50 to another to buy them out, and the four remaining brothers carried
on under a new partnership.
In
1913 when the company was formed the assets were valued at £2,270, but
the partners worked for very small wages and kept putting their money
back into the business. At the time of the resolution complained
of the assets were valued at between £70,000 and £80,000. The applicant
submitted he was entitled to be director for life and his brothers had
no right to pass the resolution for voluntary winding-up.
Lord Justice Scrutton said the father had intended the eldest brother to be the governing man in the business, and that was recognised for a time by the others. By the articles of association he was made permanent director. Ernest was a strong man. One of the younger brothers was also a strong man. They were all Yorkshiremen. When two strong Yorkshiremen worked together it was usually probable a time would come when that irresistible force met an immovable post.
There were a good many rows and in consequence it became difficult to carry on with the company. The younger brothers decided to wind it up so there would be nothing of which Ernest Bullock could be permanent director. His action was brought because he had lost that position.
If the Court were free to form its own decision difficult questions might have arisen, but it could not decide in favour of Ernest Bullock without overruling several decisions of the Court of Appeal and a long line of statements in the textbooks. The appeal must be dismissed.
Lord Justice Scrutton said the father had intended the eldest brother to be the governing man in the business, and that was recognised for a time by the others. By the articles of association he was made permanent director. Ernest was a strong man. One of the younger brothers was also a strong man. They were all Yorkshiremen. When two strong Yorkshiremen worked together it was usually probable a time would come when that irresistible force met an immovable post.
There were a good many rows and in consequence it became difficult to carry on with the company. The younger brothers decided to wind it up so there would be nothing of which Ernest Bullock could be permanent director. His action was brought because he had lost that position.
If the Court were free to form its own decision difficult questions might have arisen, but it could not decide in favour of Ernest Bullock without overruling several decisions of the Court of Appeal and a long line of statements in the textbooks. The appeal must be dismissed.
BERTHA FINCH BANKRUPT
A receiving order was made against Bertha Finch, a draper of Station Lane, in
the Wakefield Bankruptcy Court in April. She gave as the causes of
failure insufficient capital and her husband's extravagance.
The Official Receiver (Mr Basil S Briggs) said "The debtor began
business in March 1928 at her present address with about £80 given to
her by her husband Herbert, who kept the books and did most of the
ordering. He also helped in the shop. She said she did not become
aware she was insolvent until assisted to take stock by her largest
creditor.
"She said at Easter 1928 her husband obtained a motor car for which he
paid about £70, and six months later exchanged it for another car for
which he paid over £100. He sold that car for £80 and bought a
combination motorcycle and sidecar for £35. She had to keep away from
the shop for five weeks because her little boy had scarlet fever. When
she came back she saw things were in a muddle, but could not get to know
what was wrong, as her husband would never tell her the truth. There
was trouble over another woman who had been coming to the shop all the
time while she was away. Her husband filled in a blank cheque which she
had signed to pay an account and cashed it for £105 and with the
proceeds went off in the combination and this woman went with him, and
it is not known where he is." The liabilities amounted to £1,938 and
there was a deficiency of £1,389.
In November at Wakefield County Court Mr B E Poppleton applied, on behalf of Mrs Finch, for her discharge in bankruptcy. He said a first and final dividend of 3s 6d in the pound was available, and he went through the causes of her business failing.
His Honour Judge Woodcock said the husband should have been prosecuted, but he would like to know why the application was being made. The public had to be protected. He was told the parents of Mrs Finch had come to her assistance and bought the remnants of the business. Mrs Finch was doing the work, and had her children to support. His Honour granted the discharge.
It turned out there was a dispute between Featherstone Council and West Riding County Council. The local council considered because the county council had taken over the maintenance of Station Lane they were wholly responsible. The latter considered the health of the inhabitants, such as street cleaning, was for Featherstone Council to deal with.
The Express commented "Meanwhile those passing through the town's principal thoroughfare on Sundays had to suffer an unsightly litter, to say nothing of any danger there may be to health".
At the May council meeting Cr Sharratt said since the county council took over Wakefield Road and Station Lane they had been a disgrace on Sundays because of litter not being cleared. Cr Edwards said everything was satisfactory last Sunday morning.
in June the council received a letter from the Institute of Public Cleansing asking for support in their campaign to educate the public on the importance of keeping the streets as clear as possible from refuse, and also burning as much refuse as possible.
Cr Edwards urged everything possible should be done to educate the public in this respect, and the council should put their own house in order first. The clearing of the streets was surely Featherstone's work, and not the county council's, Featherstone being the sanitary authority.
Cr Thatcher commented on the primitive equipment of the county council workmen. One at North Featherstone was using a dilapidated barrow. Cr Sharratt said they should give the public better living conditions, some of the streets were terrible in bad weather.
Cr Thatcher suggested receptacles for fish and chip papers be placed outside the shops and the shopkeepers should be requested to ask their customers to use them. It was eventually agreed no action would be taken about receptacles until it was settled which authority was responsible for the cleaning of the streets on Sundays.
OVER OR UNDER
In November at Wakefield County Court Mr B E Poppleton applied, on behalf of Mrs Finch, for her discharge in bankruptcy. He said a first and final dividend of 3s 6d in the pound was available, and he went through the causes of her business failing.
His Honour Judge Woodcock said the husband should have been prosecuted, but he would like to know why the application was being made. The public had to be protected. He was told the parents of Mrs Finch had come to her assistance and bought the remnants of the business. Mrs Finch was doing the work, and had her children to support. His Honour granted the discharge.
THE LAW OF UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES
After a long campaign the council had managed to get the county council
to take over the maintenance of the minor roads (Ackworth Road, Cutsyke
Road, and the road in between which included Station Lane). In May "One of
Featherstone's most prominent tradesmen" complained to the Express Station
Lane was littered with paper containing fish and chips and other
garbage and he had seen nothing like it on a Sunday morning for nearly
30 years. It turned out there was a dispute between Featherstone Council and West Riding County Council. The local council considered because the county council had taken over the maintenance of Station Lane they were wholly responsible. The latter considered the health of the inhabitants, such as street cleaning, was for Featherstone Council to deal with.
The Express commented "Meanwhile those passing through the town's principal thoroughfare on Sundays had to suffer an unsightly litter, to say nothing of any danger there may be to health".
At the May council meeting Cr Sharratt said since the county council took over Wakefield Road and Station Lane they had been a disgrace on Sundays because of litter not being cleared. Cr Edwards said everything was satisfactory last Sunday morning.
in June the council received a letter from the Institute of Public Cleansing asking for support in their campaign to educate the public on the importance of keeping the streets as clear as possible from refuse, and also burning as much refuse as possible.
Cr Edwards urged everything possible should be done to educate the public in this respect, and the council should put their own house in order first. The clearing of the streets was surely Featherstone's work, and not the county council's, Featherstone being the sanitary authority.
Cr Thatcher commented on the primitive equipment of the county council workmen. One at North Featherstone was using a dilapidated barrow. Cr Sharratt said they should give the public better living conditions, some of the streets were terrible in bad weather.
Cr Thatcher suggested receptacles for fish and chip papers be placed outside the shops and the shopkeepers should be requested to ask their customers to use them. It was eventually agreed no action would be taken about receptacles until it was settled which authority was responsible for the cleaning of the streets on Sundays.
GLEDHILL'S PAWNBROKERS CRITICISED
In May, Fitzwilliam Ellis of Kinsley was in court charged with stealing
a clock and a quantity of table line from Ernest Bullock of Woodbury,
Purston. Mr Bullock said he went into the garden and while there he
heard the dog barking. He returned to the house and found a table napkin
outside the back door. Inside, the dining room was disarranged. When
the maid returned it became apparent the items shown in court were
missing.
William D Parkes, a pawnbroker employed by Messrs Gledhill, said Ellis
pawned the table line for 6s 6d, and the clock for 10s. Ellis said the
property was his and as he knew him he believed his story. The chairman
asked Parkes if he did not think it strange Ellis should be offering
table linen of that quality, and a timepiece. Parkes replied he thought
Ellis had been in better circumstances at one time.
Supt J Fairbairn said nothing was known against Ellis, but he had had
several addresses in the past year, had two children in the Union
workhouse, and was drawing unemployment pay under the name of Elliott
and a Purston address.
The chairman said the magistrates were dissatisfied at the lack of
precaution shown by the pawnbroker. He should have asked more searching
questions before accepting that quality of goods from a man like Ellis.
No person's house would be safe if men could get rid of stolen things in
that easy way.
Supt Fairbairn (no doubt fearing lack of co-operation in the future)
said it was only fair to say the police had at all times received every
assistance from Messrs Gledhill, and it was through Parkes the police
had been able to trace the man. Ellis was sentenced to six weeks in
prison with hard labour.
AN ALARMING EXPERIENCE
Ronald Lewis, the undermanager at Ackworth Pit, was underground in June
walking along the rope haulage road when his clothing was caught by a
frayed portion of the steel rope. He was pulled off his feet and dragged along
the road. He couldn't free himself so he clung to the rope and was
pulled along for about 600 yards. He was then seen by the haulage
workers who stopped the rope. He was attended to at the colliery and
then taken home and Dr Finch was called. As he was bleeding at the mouth
Dr Finch sent him to Pontefract Infirmary where he was detained for two
days.
Mr
Lewis was organist and choirmaster at Purston Parish Church and was
absent on the Sunday. Substitutes had to be found for the services and
he hoped to be back in action in two weeks.
CRICKET GROUND FUNCTIONS
The ninth annual Baby Day for the Featherstone and Streethouse clinics
was held on the cricket ground in July. After the speeches tea was
served to the mothers and the principal guest, Mrs Currer Briggs, talked
at length with the mothers and admired the babies.
The competition winners were:
Making something from nothing - Mrs Alder
Best white bread - Mrs Green
Best brown bread - Mrs Boulton
Best fruit cake - Mrs Godber
Best plain cake - Mrs Wood
The annual sports competition for elementary schools was also held in July. The Express commented
"There was some excellent sport. The finish in the 440 yards handicap
was worth going a long way to see, and C Hollis broke the record for the
long jump with a fine feat - 14ft 5ins. A tug-of-war concluded a most
enjoyable programme. George Street School proved easy winners. There was
no evidence of malnutrition among the six sturdy lads who pulled George
Street to victory. On this event depended the possession of the school
shield for the year, and George Street took it from North Featherstone
Lane (Gordon Street). There was a tie for the Girls' School shield
between North Featherstone Lane and Purston".
THE HEALTH ANNUAL REPORTS
Dr W Steven, in his report for 1929, published in July, said not one
single house was completed during the year which was unique in all the
years he had known Featherstone. All three collieries had been working
short time - about three days a week. The earnings of the workers had
been inadequate, and the house rents being high (10s a week or more) the
remainder did not provide many amenities for family life.
The infant mortality rate (deaths before the first birthday) was 144.
In 1928 it was 69. Nine babies did not live a day, and seven did not
survive one week - in fact many were born into the world with little
chance of living.
The same reason which had caused a cessation in the building of houses
applies to the reconstruction and improvement of private streets. There
is no money, There are still 42 cesspits and many could and should be
abolished. Their presence is not only insanitary, but costly to service.
Mr J Hilsley, the sanitary inspector, said the Public Health (Smoke
Abatement) Act 1926 fixed three minutes in 30 as the maximum period for
smoke emission from industrial chimneys. Trouble is still experienced by
the emission of smoke from the colliery chimneys, and although there
was an improvement they constantly broke the bye-law. Attention was paid
to the smoke and fumes from the dirtstacks. This was a problem which
was a serious menace to public health.
In considering atmospheric pollution a great part of it is caused by
the domestic fireplace. The coal-fired wash copper is also a smoke
producer but it should be omitted in future houses and a hot water
supply installed. The council should carry on with installing a hot
water supply in their existing houses.
THE OLD FEATHERSTONE AND ACKTON TREAT
The weather was kind again to the eleventh Old Featherstone and Ackton
Treat held in July. It had only been rained on once. This year 225
children were in wagons loaned by local farmers and headed by the
Featherstone Subscription Silver Band. Pheobe Mattocks, chosen by her
fellow pupils, was Britannia. The children had tea in George Copley's
field, and 140 old folk had theirs in the National School.
The children were given sweets, and the old folk packets of tea and
tobacco. A long programme of sports followed and there was the usual
maypole dancing and the grand march by the pupils accompanied by the
band who later played for dancing.
THE ROVERS ANNUAL MEETING
The Rovers annual meeting was held in July in the Junction Hotel. Mr H
Goodall presented the financial statement. He said without better
support the club could not continue, but everything was against them
last season. They were knocked out of both cup competitions in the first
round, the receipts from league and cup games were £1,100 less than in
the previous season, and the average gate from league games had gone
down from £103 in 1928-29 to £65 in 1929-30. Injuries to players
had been a heavy drain on the club costing £283 in compensation.. Many
home games were ruined by wretched weather, and the constant injuries
had made it impossible to field their best side.
With better fortune in weather, freedom from injuries, a much better
fixture list, and more support from the public, he hoped to present a
brighter account next season.
George Johnson, the president, was re-elected unopposed. He said the
committee had done their best to provide good football, but there was no
second team to draw upon, and week after week the selection committee
was faced with a crop of injuries.
The club could not afford to buy players, but they had some very
promising players and there was no reason why, if there was a return of
the team spirit, they should not have a fine side next season.
Mr
T Garritty, the secretary, regretted the disbandment of the second
team, and said it should be revived as soon as possible, as it was a
nursery for the first team. Featherstone could not afford to buy
players; they had to make them.
Mr Johnson announced they had three new guarantors - Messrs A Bullock,
Evan Evans and H Sawyer - and they were greatly obliged to them.
DEATH FROM MENINGITIS
An
inquest was held into the death of Matthew George Killingbeck, a
by-worker at Featherstone Main Colliery age 43, of Claytons Buildings.
He died in Pontefract Infirmary on 8 July from meningitis. Dr J
O'Donnell, resident medical officer at the infirmary, said he could see
none of the usual causes of meningitis but a post mortem examination
showed a healed scar on the scalp at the back. Meningitis could be
caused by disease or a blow but there was no sign of disease. The man
had received another blow shortly before his illness and in his opinion the blows were the cause of the meningitis.
His widow, Susan Killingbeck, said on 10 March he came home from work
and said he had had a bump and had been attended to. He had a nasty cut
on the side of his head. He returned to work on 31 March. On another
occasion he came home and said he had caught his head in the same place
against a girder. He went to work the next day but came home very ill
and complained about his head. He did not work again.
John Pointon of Crossley Street said he was with Killingbeck when a
fall of roof caught them and caused a cut on Killingbeck's head. He was
also with him when he caught his head again.
Dr J B Fairclough said he attended Killingbeck and eventually sent him
to hospital. He connected the meningitis with the first bump on the
head. It could occur soon after or remain latent for months. He thought
it was latent and lighted up by the second blow. The jury agreed death
was caused by meningitis due to the accidents.
HOSPITALS' CARNIVAL
The third annual carnival in aid of local hospitals was held in August.
The streets were decorated and the procession paraded the town headed
by the Featherstone Subscription Silver Band. There were numerous
competition prizes which attracted entries from a wide area. After the
event £64 was sent to Pontefract Infirmary. The winners were:
Impression of a notable character - H Machin, Normanton
Comic dress - F Harrison, Ossett
Fancy Costume under nine years - M Hawes, Wakefield
Fancy costume nine to 16 years - Susan Westwood, Featherstone
Abraham Bullock cup for a local child - Constance Marson
Fancy costume over 16 years - W Thompson, Leeds
Decorated pram - A Taylor, Purston
Tableau - Mrs A Broughton, Featherstone
Decorated horse in gears - Pontefract Corporation
Horse and turnout - A Pilkington
Tradesman's turnout - A Pilkington
Comic band - Crofton
Decorated shop - A Broughton, Station Lane
Decorated house - Mrs Dixon, Wakefield Road
Decorated Street - Fearnley Street.
The Leeds Workpeople's Hospital Fund Committee sent a letter to the council in December asking for the council's employees to agree to pay 2d a week each towards the maintenance of the Leeds hospitals.
Cr Sharratt said most Featherstone cases were dealt with at Pontefract Infirmary and Pontefract should have most support. Mr J Hilsley, the sanitary inspector, said there was a box in the council yard for voluntary contributions.
It was pointed out the colliery workers contributed 1d a week each stopped off their wages, and the amount raised was distributed between Pontefract, Wakefield and Leeds. It was decided to ask the council's employees if they would make a similar contribution.
The Leeds Workpeople's Hospital Fund Committee sent a letter to the council in December asking for the council's employees to agree to pay 2d a week each towards the maintenance of the Leeds hospitals.
Cr Sharratt said most Featherstone cases were dealt with at Pontefract Infirmary and Pontefract should have most support. Mr J Hilsley, the sanitary inspector, said there was a box in the council yard for voluntary contributions.
It was pointed out the colliery workers contributed 1d a week each stopped off their wages, and the amount raised was distributed between Pontefract, Wakefield and Leeds. It was decided to ask the council's employees if they would make a similar contribution.
A COUNCIL HOUSES LETTING DISPUTE
When the first council houses were built the council decided who the tenants would be, but
when the housing stock numbered hundreds the duty was handed over to
the rent collectors with the view they would know best who were likely
to be good or bad tenants.
At the August council meeting Cr Bush proposed in future the council's housing committee should
do it. He said there was criticism in the district concerning houses
being let to single men and people of good social standing. Why relegate
their powers to the council's servants? They were the only council in
the district doing that sort of thing. Such a position lent itself to
bribery and corruption although he did not say there was any. When
councillors were pulled up in the street and asked why certain persons
were given houses, they had to tell them they had nothing to do with the
matter. The position was not fair to either the council's agents or the
ratepayers, and he hoped it would not be tolerated any longer.
Cr Lindley seconded the proposal. He said he was never more surprised
in his life when he found out the houses were let by the collectors
without even coming before the council for confirmation. As
representatives they should let houses at committee meetings.
Cr Coult opposed. Under the old system, before they relegated the
duties, they got into a mess with arrears to the extent of about £6,000.
The auditors told them, and rightly so, they would have to alter their
method, and cease letting houses to tenants who were determined not to
pay rent. Councillors had not the same opportunities for investigation
as the collectors. The agents were their paid servants; it was to their
interests to get decent tenants. If they reverted to the old system they
would lose good tenants.
Cr Rodgers said previously anyone desiring a council house had his name
placed on the list and the collectors took them from the top. If the
proposal was adopted all that would happen would be the names would be
placed before the council who would consider them with the rent
collectors. The present system was open to all sorts of irregularities -
getting friends into council houses, and even worse than that. One
collector brought someone in from North Featherstone who lived in a
better house than most members of the council.
Cr Darlington was opposed. He said most of them had experience of the
time when tenants were chosen from a list, and the arrears of rent that
resulted. They did not expect the collectors to be perfect, but through
their efforts the arrears of £6,000 had been reduced to £2,600.
Cr Evans expressed surprise at the proposal. He said the system now in
operation was the most successful since they started building houses. Cr
Roberts said he was not under the impression the agents had the last
word. What had become of the waiting list?
Replying, Cr Bush said he had not heard one logical argument against
his proposal. The council should be masters in their own house. When the
vote was taken he won by five votes to three.
Rent collectors J Bradbury and T Ryan wrote to the council to complain about the words bribery and corruption. Mr Bradbury said he had not received a single penny or benefited in any way for the 58 houses he had let, and the arrears were only £2 3s 6d. Mr Ryan said persons who had not been successful in their applications for council houses were putting a wrong interpretation on the speeches at the last council meeting. He had let 49 houses and the tenants could be interviewed to see if there had been any bribery or corruption.
At the September council meeting Cr Bush said no member had stated there had been bribery or corruption, but the method of letting houses was open to bribery and corruption. Any intelligent person would see there was a big difference, and there was no allegation against the writers of the letters.
Cr Sharratt agreed no disrespect was meant to the agents, but the man in the street had put a different construction on the report. He moved a vote of confidence in the two agents. After much discussion it was passed nem con (no one disagreeing).
Rent collectors J Bradbury and T Ryan wrote to the council to complain about the words bribery and corruption. Mr Bradbury said he had not received a single penny or benefited in any way for the 58 houses he had let, and the arrears were only £2 3s 6d. Mr Ryan said persons who had not been successful in their applications for council houses were putting a wrong interpretation on the speeches at the last council meeting. He had let 49 houses and the tenants could be interviewed to see if there had been any bribery or corruption.
At the September council meeting Cr Bush said no member had stated there had been bribery or corruption, but the method of letting houses was open to bribery and corruption. Any intelligent person would see there was a big difference, and there was no allegation against the writers of the letters.
Cr Sharratt agreed no disrespect was meant to the agents, but the man in the street had put a different construction on the report. He moved a vote of confidence in the two agents. After much discussion it was passed nem con (no one disagreeing).
THE LYON CUP
The annual Lyon Cup game in aid of Pontefract General Infirmary was
played on the Rovers ground in August and they beat Castleford by 11
points to 5 to regain the cup they lost for the first time last year.
Cr
J T Brooks of Castleford presented the cup to Joe Morgan, the Rovers
captain, and instead of the usual team medals the captains (Morgan and
Hargrave) received a canteen of cutlery. He commended the object of the
event and appealed for more support for the infirmary. He said he
personally would not like to see the hospitals nationalised. He liked to
see the voluntary spirit.
There were representatives from the Swinton club at the game to watch G
T Whittaker, the Rovers leading try scorer last season. They were
suitably impressed and they obtained his transfer. Some members of the
club were dismayed but dire financial necessity forced the hand of the
Rovers committee.
A NEW SCHOOL
The 1926 Hadow report on education recommended
when children reached eleven years they should be transferred to a
different school. This could be done at North Featherstone Lane School
(Gradually coming to be called Gordon Street School) which had three
separate buildings, but not at George Street School -
which was also becoming overcrowded.
So the West Riding Education Committee decided to build a new school
(to be called South Featherstone Senior Council School) for 440 over
11s south of the railway. A site of over five acres in the Leatham Park
Estate was purchased from the executors of the late Mr C W Hemingway in
1927. In December 1928 the Board of Education approved the plans, and
in March 1929 tenders from 20 contractors were accepted.
The opening ceremony took place on 1 September. Mr J J Murphy, chairman
of the Featherstone education sub-committee, presided. He said even
with this new school there was room for other similar buildings in the
district. They could not expect to get the best out of either teacher or
scholar in some of their buildings, which were only good enough for a
stable.
Sir Percy Jackson, the chairman of the West Riding Education Committee,
performed the opening ceremony. He agreed modern buildings were
necessary to get the best out of teachers and scholars. But bricks and
mortar could not make a school in the real sense of the word. It was
made by the spirit of the teachers and the boys and girls, and it needed
the parents to work with the teachers. He appealed to parents to make
their homes part of the great educational system. In the new school
children whose parents could not let them go to secondary (grammar)
schools would receive an education which would be comparable with a
secondary school education.
The photo from the Express shows Sir Percy Jackson, the Featherstone education sub-committee and the two headteachers.The three photos of the school are personal.
The photo from the Express shows Sir Percy Jackson, the Featherstone education sub-committee and the two headteachers.The three photos of the school are personal.
 |
| The north side of the school. |
 |
| The east side of the school. |
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| The west side of the school. |
OVER OR UNDER
The installation of an electricity supply to the old houses caused a
dispute. The Electrical Distribution of Yorkshire wanted to have
overhead lines but the council wanted them underground. The clerk
pointed out at the October council meeting if the connection had to be
carried out underground the cost would be prohibitive.
Cr
Sharratt said overhead wires would help to hold up the houses,
particularly in Henrietta Street. If they started excavating the houses
would come down. The company evidently did not wait for permission and
had practically got George Street done.
Cr Darlington said they should adhere to the resolution. Overhead
cables were unsightly and dangerous. He did not know a place more
unsightly than Featherstone in that respect; other towns had underground
cables,
Cr Coult said the council ought to know where they stood, and the
company should not be allowed to begin the work without permission.
Mrs H Taylor got off a bus at Little Lane in October with her son and daughter and
set off across the road with her son Kenneth age seven just in front.
He was hit by a lorry coming from Pontefract and died at the scene. At
the Gospel Hall inquest the mother said it was dusk and rather misty,
the lorry had no lights and she did not hear a horn sounded.
PC Marson said he and Sergeant Jolley examined the lorry and found the sidelights at the front and a rear light were on, and the brakes were in good order.
The driver of the lorry, Bernard Robinson of Leeds, said when he saw the bus standing he slackened his speed and sounded his horn. He then saw the woman with a child step from the back of the bus. He slowed down and applied his brakes and then a little boy started to run across the road. The boy was three or four yards from his mother when the lorry hit him. Mr D Maclean, who was walking from Pontefract, confirmed the horn was sounded.
The coroner said it was difficult to understand how the lorry escaped notice, but if the woman came out from immediately behind the bus it was possible a vehicle from the other direction was not seen until it was too late. The jury returned a verdict of death by misadventure and exonerated everyone from blame.
A FATAL ROAD ACCIDENT IN PURSTON
PC Marson said he and Sergeant Jolley examined the lorry and found the sidelights at the front and a rear light were on, and the brakes were in good order.
The driver of the lorry, Bernard Robinson of Leeds, said when he saw the bus standing he slackened his speed and sounded his horn. He then saw the woman with a child step from the back of the bus. He slowed down and applied his brakes and then a little boy started to run across the road. The boy was three or four yards from his mother when the lorry hit him. Mr D Maclean, who was walking from Pontefract, confirmed the horn was sounded.
The coroner said it was difficult to understand how the lorry escaped notice, but if the woman came out from immediately behind the bus it was possible a vehicle from the other direction was not seen until it was too late. The jury returned a verdict of death by misadventure and exonerated everyone from blame.
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
The annual Service of Remembrance was held at Purston Parish Church on
the Sunday before Armistice Day. A procession, headed by the
Featherstone Subscription Silver Band, marched from the Miners' Welfare
Institute and was met at the bottom of Station Lane by members and
officials of Featherstone Council.
The service was conducted by Revd T W Barry Wall, and after it
concluded the congregation gathered at the War Memorial where a hymn was
sung and wreaths were laid.
Another service was held at Featherstone Parish Church on 11
November, and also again at Purston Parish Church. Wreaths of poppies and
evergreens were laid on the memorial in the Ackton Hall Colliery yard.
At Gordon Street Junior Mixed School a wreath was placed on the
memorial to past pupils by Mr J Norton, secretary of the British Legion,
and ex-sergeant Bearns recited a poem written by a war comrade. The
Roll of Honour was read by Enid Butler. The Express commented
many floral tributes covered the memorial, showing the spirit of
remembrance is very much alive among the children and their parents.
A BIT OF A TO DO IN STATION LANE
At Pontefract Court in November John Jarvis accused Albert Edwards of
assault. Jarvis said he was talking to a woman in a side street off
Station Lane just before midnight when Edwards came up with two Alsatian
dogs and ordered them to move on. They went up Station Lane and Edwards
followed them. Jarvis said he would fetch a policeman and he was then
assaulted by Edwards and his face was so swollen he could not go to work
on the Monday. He admitted they were originally in a private street.
Hannah Robinson said they had just been talking, and after the assault
Edwards brother arrived with a third Alsatian and threatened her. She
saw a policeman and called him. PC Bellhouse said when he arrived Jarvis
was on the ground and Edwards was in a fighting attitude.
Albert Edwards said several nuisances had been committed at the back of
his house and he was constantly moving people away late at night. All
he did was ask Jarvis and the woman to move away. The dogs did not bite
anyone. Jarvis struck him on the nose and he retaliated.
Arnold Jarvis said when the constable arrived his brother's nose was
bleeding but he said he would not take out a summons because he had
retaliated and considered the matter closed. The Bench dismissed the
charge of assault but fined Arnold 12s for interfering and using bad
language while the policeman was dealing with the affair.
SPORTS CLUB DANCES
The Featherstone Rovers carnival supper dance was held on Boxing Day in
the Lister Hall. The hall was crowded and £42 was taken at the door. In
addition a large number of ticket were sold. The refreshments were
organised by the ladies committee, and it was expected over £70 would be
raised for the club's funds.
The Cricket Club's New Year's Eve whist drive and dance was also in the
Lister Hall. There were 224 players for the whist, and nearly 600 for
the dancing. At midnight the huge company joined hands and sang Auld Lang Syne and Hail, Smiling Morn. The music for both events was provided by Mr J Hollyhead's band.
1930 NEWS ITEMS
JANUARY
The council decided to purchase a motor ambulance from Messrs Wilson
and Stockall for £470, and applied to the Ministry of Health for
permission to borrow the money on a seven years loan. Discussions had
been held with the St John Ambulance Brigade regarding its use. It would
be garaged next to the fire station.
Two memorial windows were placed in Purston Parish Church in memory of Revd Harry Speering Rogers and his wife Mary. Other windows had previously been dedicated to the memory of Revd Thomas Hepworth Hall, his wife Elizabeth, Dr A Buncle, Mr Charles and Mrs E Hemingway, and Frank and Burton Poppleton.
Three Featherstone Main Colliery pony drivers, W Slater and S Green of Featherstone and L Parkinson of Pontefract, were in court for sending their ponies on their own more than a mile along the travelling road to the stables while they went to the pit bottom along the haulage road - both against the rules. They admitted the offences and were each fined £1 for each offence.
Part of the Stanley Main Seam at Featherstone Main Colliery closed down and 91 miners were given their notice. The Express reported apart from that the two collieries were working very good time at present.
Two memorial windows were placed in Purston Parish Church in memory of Revd Harry Speering Rogers and his wife Mary. Other windows had previously been dedicated to the memory of Revd Thomas Hepworth Hall, his wife Elizabeth, Dr A Buncle, Mr Charles and Mrs E Hemingway, and Frank and Burton Poppleton.
Three Featherstone Main Colliery pony drivers, W Slater and S Green of Featherstone and L Parkinson of Pontefract, were in court for sending their ponies on their own more than a mile along the travelling road to the stables while they went to the pit bottom along the haulage road - both against the rules. They admitted the offences and were each fined £1 for each offence.
Part of the Stanley Main Seam at Featherstone Main Colliery closed down and 91 miners were given their notice. The Express reported apart from that the two collieries were working very good time at present.
The Green Lane Club held a function for the over 65 years old members
numbering over 100. There was a tea of ham, tongue, beef, pork pies,
pickles and sweets. They were each given 5s and were entertained by a
concert. The organisers, Mr C Williams and Mr G Morris, were presented
with a case of cutlery in recognition of their work. They said they had
been very happy to do what they could in such a good cause.
FEBRUARY
Alfred Childs borrowed 10s from one Pontefract man and half-a-crown
from another promising to repay it the next day. When he didn't they
informed the police and identified him from a photograph. When arrested
in Featherstone he admitted it. In court he claimed he had been before
the magistrates five times and had never been given a chance. The police
said there were another seven cases outstanding and asked the Bench to
take these into consideration. The chairman said how can you expect
chances if you keep on doing this sort of thing, and he was sentenced to
three months in jail.
The council were concerned about light bulbs being stolen from the street lamps, and damage to the standards, and said anyone found would be prosecuted without further warning.
The council were concerned about light bulbs being stolen from the street lamps, and damage to the standards, and said anyone found would be prosecuted without further warning.
Schemes to provide jobs for the unemployed had been considered by the council. It was decided to adjourn further consideration of a proposal
for a bridge at the Church Fields level crossing, and that a scheme for a
road subway under the Station Lane crossing would be too costly and
would not be considered further.
Dr W Steven asked the council to appeal to the public to help all they
could to fight tuberculosis. He said some men who had received every
care in sanatoria were condemning themselves when they came home by
spending most of their time in the smoke-laden atmosphere of public
houses or clubs, instead of getting into the open air as much as
possible. Featherstone's record in consumption was becoming worse
instead of better.
An inquest was held into the death of Ernest Bamforth, a pony driver age 18 of Farm Road, who was found dead under a tub in Ackton Hall Colliery. There was no evidence to explain what had happened and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.
An inquest was held into the death of Ernest Bamforth, a pony driver age 18 of Farm Road, who was found dead under a tub in Ackton Hall Colliery. There was no evidence to explain what had happened and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.
Mr W H Wood, the secretary of the Featherstone Station Ambulance Class,
was informed by the Order of St John of Jerusalem he would receive the
honour of Serving Brother in recognition of his long and valued service
in first-aid work. He had been an ambulance worker for 25 years and for
many of them was a member of the successful Featherstone Station team.
The only other local holder of this honour was Dr W Steven.
For
the fifth year running the station's ambulance team won the LMS
District Shield. The members were E Simpson, W Applegate, A Blackburn, G
Bullock, and C Baines.
Featherstone Police provided 1,000 children age seven and over with tea, sweets and entertainment at the Miners' Welfare Institute.
The annual whist drive and dance for hospital charities was held at the Lister Hall. There were 250 for the whist and 700 for the dance. A troupe of Bradford girls gave a dancing exhibition. The event raised £40 for Pontefract General Infirmary, and £25 each for Leeds General Infirmary and Clayton Hospital.
MARCH The British Legion Club in Green Lane, opposite the Featherstone Hotel, was put up for sale but was withdrawn. It was then sold privately to William Bottomley of Pontefract. The British Legion moved their headquarters from the club to the Railway Hotel.
Featherstone Police provided 1,000 children age seven and over with tea, sweets and entertainment at the Miners' Welfare Institute.
The annual whist drive and dance for hospital charities was held at the Lister Hall. There were 250 for the whist and 700 for the dance. A troupe of Bradford girls gave a dancing exhibition. The event raised £40 for Pontefract General Infirmary, and £25 each for Leeds General Infirmary and Clayton Hospital.
MARCH The British Legion Club in Green Lane, opposite the Featherstone Hotel, was put up for sale but was withdrawn. It was then sold privately to William Bottomley of Pontefract. The British Legion moved their headquarters from the club to the Railway Hotel.
At
7.30 on a Sunday evening Revd T W Barry Wall was preaching in Purston
Parish Church when he was given a note from the organist, Mr R Lewis,
telling him there was a small fire in the roof of the choir vestry but
there was no danger. The vicar told the congregation and asked them to
remain seated, and he carried on with his sermon. The fire brigade
arrived promptly and by the time the service ended the fire was out.
APRIL The medical officer told the council there had been 296 cases of measles in March, the infants schools were closed and the Featherstone and Streethouse cinemas had been asked not to admit children under ten years of age. The result was the children went to Pontefract instead, so the cinemas there were asked to do the same.
Wakefield Corporation said because of the increased expenditure in obtaining emergency supplies of water during last year's drought the cost per 1,000 gallons would go up to 17.6d. This would cost the council an extra £!,960 for the 1929/30 year so the water rates would be increased by 25%.
The rates for the next six months were set at 9s 3d, an increase of 2d. The council chairman, Cr Coult, made a long statement at the council meeting to justify the increase. The main point was the area had been revalued for rates and the total rateable value had gone down from £84,946 to £50,654.
For the first time there was a woman (Mrs Adela Nash, the Labour candidate) contesting the council elections. The results were:
Ackton and Snydale Ward E Evans unopposed
Purston Ward J Rodgers unopposed
North Ward A Lindley 836 B Bradley 371
South Ward E Edwards 400 A Nash 138
At the council's annual meeting Cr H Hall was elected chairmen for the next year. He said a penny rate used to bring in £300 but now it was only £200. The collieries were not paying as much as they used to, and the council had to fall back on the poorer people to bear a heavy burden, and must therefore economise in every possible way, and reduce the rates as soon as was practicable.
The education sub-committee had received 54 applications for the post of headmaster at the new school in Purston. It was decided to recommend Frank Piper of Rotherham as first choice with Percy Leadbeater of Featherstone as second. For the post of headmistress Miss Sykes (headmistress of Regent Street Girls' School) was recommended with Miss Jones of Shrewsbury as second choice.
Two miners at Featherstone Main Colliery were fined 2s 6d each for filling too much dirt with the coal. They refused to pay and were sacked. Their colleagues, backed by the union, threatened to hold a strike ballot, and after a meeting at Ropergate House, Pontefract, the two men were reinstated.
MAY Mr J W McTrusty, ex-manager of both Featherstone collieries, was appointed technical investigator in the Yorkshire Coalfield on behalf of the Safety in Mines Research Board "to collect and correlate information regarding the support of roof in mines, with particular reference to the safety of persons employed underground, combined with economy and sound practice".
The West Riding Education Committee appointed Mr R L Hutt, headmaster of the Sutton-in-Craven School near Keighley as headmaster of the new school in Purston. They accepted the recommendation of the Featherstone committee for the headmistress and appointed Miss Sykes. There were 110 applications for the post of caretaker. Robert Burns of Robbins Terrace was chosen.
JUNE Featherstone Main Colliery had a pumping station at Carr Beck on the Featherstone/Glass Houghton boundary. During a storm it was put out of action by lightning, and three of the standards carrying the current to it were struck. One standard was demolished and splinters scattered for 50 yards.
JULY The clerk told the council meeting the ambulance had been delivered and the cost was £474. The St John Ambulance Association toured the district with it to show it to the public, starting at North Featherstone.
Mrs Peter Darlington of Redmead, Purston, was presented with a pair of silver candlesticks at the annual tea of Purston Church Mothers' Union as a reward for all the work she had done for that organisation.
AUGUST John Arthur Wilson age 60 of Station Lane was buried by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall Colliery and died shortly after he was released. The inquest jury decided it was death by misadventure.
The Yorkshire Electrical Power Company were told by the council they had no objection to them installing electricity for the tenants of Brookway, St Thomas Road or any other of the council's houses.
The North Featherstone Parish Church Rugby Union Club decided to rename the club as the Featherstone Rugby Union Club in the hope of obtaining new members and extend support. The vicar, Revd J Gray, resigned the office of president but he was unanimously re-elected.
The company running Featherstone Main Colliery said the Stanley Main/Warren House Seam was running at a loss and unless the colliers accepted new terms it would be closed down. Mr J Rodgers, for the union, said the men would be 11d a ton worse off, and a ballot of the colliers was held which resulted in a 126 votes to three decision to turn down the terms. The company then gave their notice to all 370 workers in the seam.
Ellis Barnard, a pony driver age 22 of Streethouse was found dead under a full tub of coal in Featherstone Main Colliery.
SEPTEMBER William Wilby was in court for altering the motties on two tubs in Ackton Hall Colliery numbered 603 and 611 to his own number 633. Three deputies and a pony driver gave evidence. Wilby said they were all liars but he was sentenced to one month in prison.
An inquest was held on Richard Flavell age 3 of Albert Street. He ran across Station Lane in front of a lorry. A woman screamed and he turned back and was hit. He was taken to Pontefract Infirmary where he died shortly afterwards. The evidence was if there had been no scream he would have run clear. The jury decided it was death by misadventure.
The Ministry of Labour turned down the unemployment benefit claim of 200 colliers and fillers at Featherstone Main Colliery saying it was a trade dispute. The union said it would appeal and in the meantime would grant them £1 a week plus 2s for each child. The Ministry had not decided on the claim of the 170 men not involved in the dispute but put out of work.
A fire broke out in the early morning at Mr R T Neal's garage on the main road to Pontefract. The fire brigade were quickly on the scene and as the fire had taken hold they had to use two hoses to put it out. They were concerned about the petrol pumps and the 500 gallons of petrol in the tank but managed to keep the fire away from them. The damage to the building and contents was estimated at from £600 to £800.
Mr T Flavell drove a council lorry without permission and did some damage to the Miners' Welfare Institute (not specified). He apologised to the council and promised to pay for the damage. The council put a notice in the workmen's room prohibiting unauthorised use of any council vehicle.
OCTOBER The council decided to give a fee of 2s 6d to any person giving notice of a fire by breaking the glass connected to the fire alarm. The rates for the next six months were reduced by 3d to 9s.
NOVEMBER The Featherstone Main Colliery dispute was still not settled, so the Yorkshire Miners' Association gave permission for a strike ballot at all four of the companies collieries. The union would press for another meeting with the company before the ballot was taken.
An inquest was held into the death of John Wesley Morritt age 44 of Airedale who was buried by a fall in Ackworth Pit while walking to the pit bottom. He died later in Pontefract Infirmary. The jury decided it was accidental death.
DECEMBER Walter Cook was returning from a dance at Lister Hall to Pontefract on his motorcycle in thick fog. He mounted the pavement and hit a lamppost in Purston. He was knocked unconscious and taken to Pontefract Infirmary. He was allowed home after four days.
The council told the sanitary inspector to communicate with the inspector of the Barnsley Borough Council with regard to the number of pigs feet received in the district, which on examination were found to be unfit for human consumption.
Cr Darlington appealed to the ratepayers to pay their rates. He said the council had an overdraft of £3,000 at the bank, and a payment of £8,000 owing to Wakefield Corporation had to be held over.
At the education sub-committee meeting it was said there were numerous applications for free boots where the family wage earner had understated his earnings. The applicants had to fill a form stating their income for the past six weeks. This was checked with their employers. The worst case was £2 16s a week. A decision was taken to ask the West Riding Education Committee to take action against those who could be proved to have made false statements.
The Featherstone Parish Church authorities had raised £250 towards the cost of £500 for encasing the old tower. A jumble sale and entertainment in the National School raised another £14.
The 25 recipients of the United Charities received the usual quarterly sum of 19s 6d each. They were also given a 5s bonus plus another 3s from the local police charity funds.
An inquest was held into the death of George Henry Whitworth age 62 of Halton Street. Dr W Steven had stated the death was due to natural causes, but a relative said a recent accident at Snydale Colliery had something to do with it. A post mortem showed Whitworth had cancer of the stomach and the jury agreed with Dr Steven's conclusion.
APRIL The medical officer told the council there had been 296 cases of measles in March, the infants schools were closed and the Featherstone and Streethouse cinemas had been asked not to admit children under ten years of age. The result was the children went to Pontefract instead, so the cinemas there were asked to do the same.
Wakefield Corporation said because of the increased expenditure in obtaining emergency supplies of water during last year's drought the cost per 1,000 gallons would go up to 17.6d. This would cost the council an extra £!,960 for the 1929/30 year so the water rates would be increased by 25%.
The rates for the next six months were set at 9s 3d, an increase of 2d. The council chairman, Cr Coult, made a long statement at the council meeting to justify the increase. The main point was the area had been revalued for rates and the total rateable value had gone down from £84,946 to £50,654.
For the first time there was a woman (Mrs Adela Nash, the Labour candidate) contesting the council elections. The results were:
Ackton and Snydale Ward E Evans unopposed
Purston Ward J Rodgers unopposed
North Ward A Lindley 836 B Bradley 371
South Ward E Edwards 400 A Nash 138
At the council's annual meeting Cr H Hall was elected chairmen for the next year. He said a penny rate used to bring in £300 but now it was only £200. The collieries were not paying as much as they used to, and the council had to fall back on the poorer people to bear a heavy burden, and must therefore economise in every possible way, and reduce the rates as soon as was practicable.
The education sub-committee had received 54 applications for the post of headmaster at the new school in Purston. It was decided to recommend Frank Piper of Rotherham as first choice with Percy Leadbeater of Featherstone as second. For the post of headmistress Miss Sykes (headmistress of Regent Street Girls' School) was recommended with Miss Jones of Shrewsbury as second choice.
Two miners at Featherstone Main Colliery were fined 2s 6d each for filling too much dirt with the coal. They refused to pay and were sacked. Their colleagues, backed by the union, threatened to hold a strike ballot, and after a meeting at Ropergate House, Pontefract, the two men were reinstated.
MAY Mr J W McTrusty, ex-manager of both Featherstone collieries, was appointed technical investigator in the Yorkshire Coalfield on behalf of the Safety in Mines Research Board "to collect and correlate information regarding the support of roof in mines, with particular reference to the safety of persons employed underground, combined with economy and sound practice".
The West Riding Education Committee appointed Mr R L Hutt, headmaster of the Sutton-in-Craven School near Keighley as headmaster of the new school in Purston. They accepted the recommendation of the Featherstone committee for the headmistress and appointed Miss Sykes. There were 110 applications for the post of caretaker. Robert Burns of Robbins Terrace was chosen.
JUNE Featherstone Main Colliery had a pumping station at Carr Beck on the Featherstone/Glass Houghton boundary. During a storm it was put out of action by lightning, and three of the standards carrying the current to it were struck. One standard was demolished and splinters scattered for 50 yards.
JULY The clerk told the council meeting the ambulance had been delivered and the cost was £474. The St John Ambulance Association toured the district with it to show it to the public, starting at North Featherstone.
Mrs Peter Darlington of Redmead, Purston, was presented with a pair of silver candlesticks at the annual tea of Purston Church Mothers' Union as a reward for all the work she had done for that organisation.
AUGUST John Arthur Wilson age 60 of Station Lane was buried by a fall of roof at Ackton Hall Colliery and died shortly after he was released. The inquest jury decided it was death by misadventure.
The Yorkshire Electrical Power Company were told by the council they had no objection to them installing electricity for the tenants of Brookway, St Thomas Road or any other of the council's houses.
The North Featherstone Parish Church Rugby Union Club decided to rename the club as the Featherstone Rugby Union Club in the hope of obtaining new members and extend support. The vicar, Revd J Gray, resigned the office of president but he was unanimously re-elected.
The company running Featherstone Main Colliery said the Stanley Main/Warren House Seam was running at a loss and unless the colliers accepted new terms it would be closed down. Mr J Rodgers, for the union, said the men would be 11d a ton worse off, and a ballot of the colliers was held which resulted in a 126 votes to three decision to turn down the terms. The company then gave their notice to all 370 workers in the seam.
Ellis Barnard, a pony driver age 22 of Streethouse was found dead under a full tub of coal in Featherstone Main Colliery.
SEPTEMBER William Wilby was in court for altering the motties on two tubs in Ackton Hall Colliery numbered 603 and 611 to his own number 633. Three deputies and a pony driver gave evidence. Wilby said they were all liars but he was sentenced to one month in prison.
An inquest was held on Richard Flavell age 3 of Albert Street. He ran across Station Lane in front of a lorry. A woman screamed and he turned back and was hit. He was taken to Pontefract Infirmary where he died shortly afterwards. The evidence was if there had been no scream he would have run clear. The jury decided it was death by misadventure.
The Ministry of Labour turned down the unemployment benefit claim of 200 colliers and fillers at Featherstone Main Colliery saying it was a trade dispute. The union said it would appeal and in the meantime would grant them £1 a week plus 2s for each child. The Ministry had not decided on the claim of the 170 men not involved in the dispute but put out of work.
A fire broke out in the early morning at Mr R T Neal's garage on the main road to Pontefract. The fire brigade were quickly on the scene and as the fire had taken hold they had to use two hoses to put it out. They were concerned about the petrol pumps and the 500 gallons of petrol in the tank but managed to keep the fire away from them. The damage to the building and contents was estimated at from £600 to £800.
Mr T Flavell drove a council lorry without permission and did some damage to the Miners' Welfare Institute (not specified). He apologised to the council and promised to pay for the damage. The council put a notice in the workmen's room prohibiting unauthorised use of any council vehicle.
OCTOBER The council decided to give a fee of 2s 6d to any person giving notice of a fire by breaking the glass connected to the fire alarm. The rates for the next six months were reduced by 3d to 9s.
NOVEMBER The Featherstone Main Colliery dispute was still not settled, so the Yorkshire Miners' Association gave permission for a strike ballot at all four of the companies collieries. The union would press for another meeting with the company before the ballot was taken.
An inquest was held into the death of John Wesley Morritt age 44 of Airedale who was buried by a fall in Ackworth Pit while walking to the pit bottom. He died later in Pontefract Infirmary. The jury decided it was accidental death.
DECEMBER Walter Cook was returning from a dance at Lister Hall to Pontefract on his motorcycle in thick fog. He mounted the pavement and hit a lamppost in Purston. He was knocked unconscious and taken to Pontefract Infirmary. He was allowed home after four days.
The council told the sanitary inspector to communicate with the inspector of the Barnsley Borough Council with regard to the number of pigs feet received in the district, which on examination were found to be unfit for human consumption.
Cr Darlington appealed to the ratepayers to pay their rates. He said the council had an overdraft of £3,000 at the bank, and a payment of £8,000 owing to Wakefield Corporation had to be held over.
At the education sub-committee meeting it was said there were numerous applications for free boots where the family wage earner had understated his earnings. The applicants had to fill a form stating their income for the past six weeks. This was checked with their employers. The worst case was £2 16s a week. A decision was taken to ask the West Riding Education Committee to take action against those who could be proved to have made false statements.
The Featherstone Parish Church authorities had raised £250 towards the cost of £500 for encasing the old tower. A jumble sale and entertainment in the National School raised another £14.
The 25 recipients of the United Charities received the usual quarterly sum of 19s 6d each. They were also given a 5s bonus plus another 3s from the local police charity funds.
An inquest was held into the death of George Henry Whitworth age 62 of Halton Street. Dr W Steven had stated the death was due to natural causes, but a relative said a recent accident at Snydale Colliery had something to do with it. A post mortem showed Whitworth had cancer of the stomach and the jury agreed with Dr Steven's conclusion.