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ON THIS PAGE YOU CAN READ ALL ABOUT THE MEN OF BURNLEY. PICTURED RIGHT IS SIR GENERAL JAMES YORKE SCARLETT.
ABRAHAM ALTHAM 1841-1885
Tea Merchant and travel organiser
There are few men of Burnley that have had such an impact on the town as did the subject of this sketch. Abraham Altham came from the humblest of backgrounds yet went on to become one of the best loved townsfolk Burnley was ever to see. Abraham, was born at Haggate, the son of the village shop keeper on 14, December 1841. His father was a preacher with the Baptist's at Haggate. Abraham's mother died soon after his birth, and his father too, died while he was comparatively young. It was left to the grandfather to bring up young Abraham, he was a grocer and additionally a farmer at Holt Hill. Young Abraham obtained his schooling at Haggate, Hill-lane and Barkerhouse road schools, in addition he attended evening classes to supplement his education after school. On leaving school, he was apprenticed at the Chaffer's Catlow quarries as a stone hewer and flag dresser. The remains of these stone quarries still exist, between Catlow farm and the Sportsman Inn to the West of Nelson. At the age of twenty-three, he started his own business as a wholesale grocery, obviously inspired by his grandfather. He did so by purchasing the premises of one Robert Wilson on Bridge street in Burnley. He extended this trade by various degrees, and later entered into a partnership with the firm Holgate and Co. This, however was short lived, for in 1872 the partnership was dissolved. This was probably the most outstanding move that Abraham was ever to make. In that same year, he acquired premises in Ormerod street that he opened as a wholesale tea shop. Just before Christmas 1872, he also requisitioned further premises in the market place, as a retail outlet for the sale of tea.
The following year 1873, he was able to open his first retail branch at Blackburn, followed in 1874 by branches at Leeds, Bradford, Halifax and York. Business prospered immensely, at his untimely death, there was no less than sixty-four retail tea establishments in Lancashire and Yorkshire. Soon he developed the travel side of the business, by offering cut-price trips to the seaside for his customers. This side of Abraham's enterprise still exists today by way of the Altham's Travel Service. Through out Abraham's life he was connected with the Baptist denomination, in particular the branch known as the Scotch Baptist's. He became a church member in March 1858, when he was just sixteen years of age, and by his eighteenth year had become a preacher. He shared his wealth, and among his greatest gifts was the school at North street Burnley. This he built, and furnished at a cost of some £3,000, he also donated the cost of building the Brierfield Baptist chapel school, to the tune of 2,000.
These contributions were besides the handsome gifts made to the chapel and schools at Haggate. His connection with the Corporation began in August 1876, when as a Liberal candidate he contested William Taylor for St. Andrew's Ward. He was elected, and re-elected for the same Ward in 1876, and again in 1881. Abraham Altham was made Alderman of the Borough on 28, March 1882. His generous attitude was again demonstrated, when it was announced that there was to be a project for the building a hospital (Victoria) for the people of Burnley, Abraham was one of the first to make a donation to the cause. Abraham Altham married his first wife, Miss Elizabeth Holgate of Bottin, Worsthorne around 1863. The couple had three sons and a daughter, on the death of his first wife, 28, November 1977 Abraham married Miss Oddie of Brierfield, to whom he had a daughter.
Through his great wealth, Abraham was able to erect the magnificent dwelling known as "Oakleigh" on Colne road, at the boundary of Burnley and Reedley townships. Before this he lived at Byerden House, on Colne road. On 26, January 1884, he was able to take up home at the "Oakleigh" mansion, looking forward to a happy existence gained through his hard work. This was not to be, for the following March, Abraham contracted a chill while attending the Haggate chapel. In December 1884, he underwent an operation, and it was thought he was making favourable recovery. In March 1885, his health again broke down. He journeyed to various places, such as Bournemouth, and Blackpool in the hope that the change in climate would heal his complaint, but to no avail. On the advice of his doctor, he returned to Oakleigh, gradually deteriorating over the next days till death brought an end to his suffering on Tuesday 28, July 1885. The respect that Abraham Altham commanded was exhibited at his funeral; The cortege was led by some 100 scholars from the school he built at North street, next came the hearse drawn by four beautiful Belgian greys, then a number of private carriages drawn by pairs of horses, followed by no less than fifty-two coaches, and carriages. Apart from his immediate family, representatives of the public bodies included, the Mayor (Alderman Baron JP.) the Town Clerk, a number of other Aldermen, the Borough Magistrates, representatives from the Councillors, Burnley Band of Hope Union, and a body of about thirty employees, of the Late gentleman brought up the rear. Abraham was buried at Haggate Baptist chapel, with which he was long associated. He died at a comparatively young age of 44 years.
THOMAS ASHWORTH 1816-1887
Ironfounder
The firm Thomas Ashworth and Co. is one of the most successful ever founded in Burnley and has given generations of Burnley people full employment. Born 28, October 1816, Thomas was the son of George, a member of the Ashworth family that spanned centuries in Burnley's history. The concern had already been conducted by Thomas's father and grandfather, when Thomas entered into management in 1854. Mr Thomas Ashworth was able before his death to give some interesting reminiscences of his early life, in what was then just the village of Burnley. During his first education years Thomas attended the "sand classes" where the pupils wrote on sand covered boards, long before the introduction of slates. He told of the time when even the teachers themselves, were not very versed in the rudiments of knowledge, and had difficulties of their own trying to explain the pronunciation of certain words. Thomas was able to tell of the great change that was to come over the district, with the rapid development of the cotton trade. He told of the revolution effected to the introduction of the railways and steam power for industry. In public affairs, Thomas was instrumental in securing the construction of the footbridge between Church street and Massey street. Many a Burnley resident will recall this as the "Police Bridge" because of the fact that it led to the old police station on Keighley Green. Thomas also took a deep interest in the Carlton road school, and the headmaster of that establishment, William Milner Grant was a close friend of Thomas Ashworth. It was Thomas who for a great number of years donated prizes for the half-yearly awards at the school, and he was said to be always a familiar sight on breaking up day at the establishment. As a staunch Conservative, he laboured hard for the cause being one of the most ardent supporters of General Scarlett in his unfortunate election fight. For many years, Thomas was a director with the Burnley Building Society, and held a similar position with the Mechanic's Institute, when that office was still on Chancery street. He also worked as a director of the Church of England Literary Institute.
JOHN BARON 1825-1898
Mayor of Burnley, and Cotton Waste Merchant
When the Town Council finally decided to erect a new town hall on Manchester road in 1883, it was John Baron who laid the foundation stone 25, October 1885. The scheme was started with an estimated cost of £30,000, in reality the cost exceeded £53,000. The building was opened on 27, October 1888, processions were held, public speeches given, and an electric light was installed on the top of the clock tower. John Baron was not a native of Burnley, he was born 30, April 1825 at Stoodley Bridge near Todmorden. He was the son of a successful farmer, educated at Cross Stones School, he followed his father's profession on reaching the working age. Around 1840, when John was aged 15 years, the family moved to Rochdale, taking on a larger farm. At the age of 21, John Baron entered into partnership with his brother William and their father. Between them they set up the business known as James Baron and sons, Cotton Waste and Yarn Merchants. Circa 1856, the enterprise took premises at Hill Top (where the Sainsbury store is) Burnley. The business prospered and expanded, and in 1852 John married Miss Margaret Petrie Stranding, the daughter of a well know Rochdale firm of merchants.
Following the death of Margaret in September 1895, John married Miss Hannah Halstead on 11, February 1897. The firm of Messrs Bibby and Baron was formed around 1873, with the amalgamation of the Baron enterprise and that of Thomas and James Bibby. This was a paper bag manufacturing concern, and grew to immense proportions, taking on the New Town Mill. Eventually it became a Limited Company, with John Baron as Chairman, and soon the largest paper bag manufacturer in the world. When John came to Burnley, he took immediate interest in public duties by serving as a Commissioner. In 1863, he was returned as a Councillor for the Trinity Ward, and in 1883 he was elevated to Alderman. He also filled the position as Mayor and chief magistrate for the Borough in 1883-4 and 1884-5. Altogether John gave the town 23 years of devoted service in various offices. While not a Burnley son in the strictest sense, John gave as much, and perhaps more devotion as many of those Burnley born and bred. John Baron died on Sunday 21, August at his home, Lark Hill Manchester road. Following a short service at Brunswick chapel on 25, August, the respected gentleman was buried at Burnley cemetery.
THOMAS BURROWS 1839-1906
Cotton Manufacturer and Mayor.
Thomas Burrows was another of those "Haggaters" who made it good, Thomas was born in July 1839. His father was Henry Burrows a hand-loom weaver in the village. Like many others of the day, what schooling Thomas had was meagre in the extreme, and at an early age he was marched off to the factory to supplement the family income. Young Burrows had at this time moved to Burnley where employment was more plentiful. Thomas acquired what knowledge he could of cotton manufacture, and in 1856, went back to Haggate. Here he became the manager at a small cotton factory. Before long, Thomas and his brother decided to venture out on their own, to this end they acquired some space at Stoneyholme shed. They started in a small way, with just 128 looms, later Robert Emmott and his son joined the Burrows at the mill. Soon afterwards they moved to Calder Vale, where they increased the number of looms to 206, and later still to 316. To follow this up, the partners took on another mill at Gannow. In 1886, the partnership was dissolved, and Thomas Burrows turned his attention to the Calder Vale Shed, which in time was running almost 900 looms.
In early 1906, they purchased Belle View Shed on Westgate, formerly run by Mr West, which brought up the number of looms to 1,350. In time the business was handed over to his two sons, William Henry, and John Thomas, though it was not unknown for Thomas to pay an unexpected visit to the mills every now and then. Thomas could now concentrate on public duties, and with a vacancy in the Council for the St Andrew's Ward he came forward. In 1887, he was made chairman of the Sewerage Committee, this was a time in question of better sewerage system being demanded, and Thomas had three places to attend, The Duck Pits, Wood End and Altham. It was in 1889, that Thomas Burrows was made Alderman, and in 1900 was elected Mayor of Burnley and served for a term of two years. Mr Burrows was married no less than three times, first to Miss Margaret Nuttall, and then to Miss Elizabeth Altham sister to the then late Alderman Altham. During his term of Mayor, he married the daughter of John Cronkshaw, the original proprietor of "Cronkshaws". This was the affectionate name for Commercial Hotel, that stood on the corner Grimshaw street and Nicholas street, it was where all the townsmen of note frequented. It came as something of a shock to the town, when on Wednesday 27, June 1906, Thomas Burrows, the man who went from weaver to mayor had passed away following a short illness. He was buried at Haggate Baptist chapel from his home Osborne Grove off Colne road.
WILLIAM COLLINGE 1844-1897
Mayor of Burnley, cotton manufacturer, cabinet maker.
William Collinge was born at Mereclough 19, January 1844, one of the sons of Luke Collinge, a native of Burnley. William's early education was gained at Burnley, with further schooling at Halifax. On reaching working age, he entered into the cabinet making business founded by his father Luke, the premises then being on Brown street. When the father took retirement, it was William along with his brother John Sutcliffe Collinge who took on the concern.
Prosperity was theirs, and gradually the two greatly expanded the business. In time, the brothers were at the head of one of the most successful endeavour's in the town, having premises on Brown street, and the large building on St. James street. The latter was taken over by Woolworth's stores in 1924, today it is the Kwick Save store. The Collinge brothers didn't confine their business to cabinet and furniture, for they also entered into cotton manufacture. They ran the Burnley Wood Mill, and had large interests in the Whittlefield Mill and the Orchard Mill at Padiham. Under the name of Collinge, Lancaster and Co. they also carried on in business as cloth agents and merchants at St. Peter's Square Manchester. William, like other members of his family took a keen interest in the towns civic matters. On 18, August 1883, he entered Council as a representative of the (old) Trinity Ward, and in 1889 he was elevated to the Aldermanic bench for the Fulledge Ward. In 1895, William was asked to take the chair as Mayor of Burnley, to which he agreed, and it was only through ill health he was unable to take a second term in that position. It was during his Mayoralty, that the question of the purchase of Towneley Hall and grounds was brought forward, and it was William who was one of the most ardent supporters of the scheme. Around 1887, William married Miss Chadwick of Nelson, though there were no children of the marriage. For a number of years the couple resided at Park Hill off Padiham road, but William's health forced them to return to their former house "Kenwood" on Albert road Southport. Following years of suffering from a complicated heart disease, death finally claimed Alderman Collinge J.P. at nine o'clock, Thursday evening on 21, October 1897.His remains were brought back to his native home, and were buried at Holme church, Cliviger.
WILLIAM DICKINSON 1828-1909
Mayor of Burnley, Loom manufacturer.
William Dickinson, was native of Tosside, a hamlet near Bolton-by-Bowland. On the death of his father, William came to Burnley with his mother while still just a few years old. Under the headmastership of William Milner Grant, William was educated at St. Peter's school, and subsequently at Red Lion street school. During his early working life he displayed enthusiasm and devotion, which paved the foundation of an extraordinary career. Along with John Butterworth, of "Oak Bank" he succeeded in 1871, to the loom making business on the demise of his uncle Samuel Wilkinson. The premises at this time were the Saunder Bank Iron Works, in time the name Butterworth and Dickinson became universal with the manufacture of textile machinery. The partnership extended the Saunder Bank works, took on the Globe Iron Works, and around 1889, built completely new premises at Rosegrove. The firm also had branch interests in the manufacture of cotton by way of the Westgate Shed, and for over fifty years Mr Dickinson was a familiar at the Manchester Exchange.
Mr Dickinson was first elected to Council on 10, May 1884, and received unopposed returns until 1893, when he was made Alderman. His devotion to public work and service to the Corporation was recognised in 1898, when he was elected Mayor of the town. He showed great interest in various Committee's, including the Improvement, Watch, General Purpose, Water, Tramways and the Art Gallery. At one time he was Chairman of the Water Committee, and the Fire Brigade Committee. His private interests included gardening, motoring, the St. John's Ambulance Association, and in his younger days, a love of the outdoors though walking and rambling. His first wife (he had three) was the daughter of John Baron J.P. she died in 1887. Mr Dickinson's second wife was Miss Kershaw of Heywood, who died in 1924, and his last wife was the widow of Mr T.G. Parkinson of Carlton House. Following his 81st birthday in January 1909, William suffered a short illness from acute bronchitis. The doctor regularly attended his home "Healey Mount" but his condition became worse, and around five o'clock on Wednesday 20, February 1909, William breathed his last. Mr Dickinson was survived by six children: Mrs Butterworth of Fairhaven, Mr H. Dickinson and Mr F. Dickinson of Burnley and Mr J.B. Dickinson of Kirkham, Mrs Bolton of Bartle, near Preston and Mr R.C. Dickinson of Burnley. Following a service at Brunswick church, William Dickinson was buried at the municipal cemetery Rossendale road on Saturday 23, February 1909. So ended the life of one the founders of "Butts and Dicks" a firm that not only gave much employment to the people of Burnley, but whose products was renown world- wide.
HARTLEY EMMOTT 1862-1925
Cotton Manufacturer, Mayor and Freeman of the Borough.
In August 1925, it was said that the commercial and public life of Burnley had suffered a severe loss. The cause of this suffering was the death of Hartley Emmott, a JP, head of one of the largest cotton weaving concerns in the Borough, the oldest member of the town council, a magistrate, an ex-mayor and a recently created Freeman. Hartley Emmott was one of the leading commercial men of his time, and like many other in the town's history hailed from Haggate. He was the second son of Robert Emmott, one of the earliest manufacturers in Burnley. After leaving Haggate with his father, Hartley attended the Red Lion street school. He entered his father's business, and learned the cotton trade from top to bottom, before venturing on his own account at Calder Vale Shed. This was a modest beginning, with just 316 looms, which was increased shortly afterwards to 424 looms. In 1886, his father ably assisted by Hartley and his brothers took over the newly erected Bishop House Mill, with no less than 1,242 looms. In 1890, the father (Robert Emmott) took retirement, and transferred the business to Hartley, his brother Thomas and sisters. Stanley Mill was built in 1891, and on opening the following year housed 1,830 looms. Continuing under the title Robert Emmott Limited, with Hartley as head and governing director, the firm prospered. In 1913, Ferndale Mill opened at Heasandford with 1,476 looms.
Hartley was also on the committee of the Burnley Manufacturer's Association, and a director of the Burnley Building Society for over twenty years. Hartley Emmott entered the town council on 17, August 1895, and was elected Mayor in 1905-6 and 1906-7. He was elected Alderman 11, December 1905, and in March 1907, Mr Emmott was appointed Borough Magistrate. The Committee's he held office on included: the Finance, Water, Markets, Small Holdings, Parliamentary Sub, Arts Galley and Museums, Massey Bequest, and Education. A scroll recorded Mr Emmott's services to the town when he was made Freeman of the Borough . "For 28 years Alderman Emmott served on the Council, as Councillor from 17, August 1895, to 1905, as Alderman from 1905 to 1924, and as Mayor during the years 1905-6 and 1906-7"
Following a seizure in 1923, Hartley was in ill health right up to his death. In Autumn 1924, Hartley along with his wife Martha Ann embarked upon a cruise to the West Indies. During the cruise, Martha Ann developed an illness that she failed to recover from, and consequently died on 21, December that year. The couple were deeply devoted, and Martha Ann's death had a profound effect on Hartley. His not unexpected death came at nine o'clock on Thursday 6, August 1925 at his home Haines Hill Reedley. There were no children of the marriage, and Hartley Emmott was reunited with his wife at Haggate Baptist chapel the following Monday after a service at Angle street Baptist chapel.
HENRY DEIGHTON FIELDING 1816-1890
Mayor of Burnley and Cotton Manufacturer
On Wednesday 15, October 1890, at his residence 30, Belvedere road, Mr Henry Deighton Fielding passed away at the grand age of 74 years. His passing saw the end of a Justice of the Peace, ex-Alderman, and ex-Mayor of the Borough of Burnley. Born 1816, at Middleton near Manchester, he first came to Burnley around 1841. He soon commenced in business by himself at the Bridge street Mill, a number of years later he entered into partnership with Mr John Barnes. Thus for about four years the firm worked under the title of Barnes and Fielding Cotton Manufacturers.
For a time he left this business, and went to reside at Cheadle Hulme. He again returned to the town of Burnley, where he began to take an interest in local government, and its policies. In January 1862, he was elected to the Town Council where he remained until 1865. Again in 1877, he was re-elected, and at the expiration of his three year office, was elected again. The following year, 1881, he was conferred with the honour of being placed on the list of Borough Magistrates. While he was Mayor of the town (1881- 83) he attended several important meetings at London in connection with the Burnley Improvement Act, which received Royal Assent in 1883. In politics Mr Fielding was a Liberal, though he never took an active share in the work of party propaganda. He was very active with the Burnley branch of Wesley Methodists, and for 25 years he was treasurer of the Wesleyan day schools of Burnley and district. In this capacity, he had the supervision of the building of the Accrington road and Whittlefield schools, and the enlargement of Fulledge school. For many years Mr Fielding lived at 21 Hargreaves street, where he described himself as a Cotton Spinner and Manufacturer. He was said to be "one of the old fashioned characters, who said what they think regardless of the consequences". On Sunday 12, October 1890, he was seized with an attack, he never rallied from the affliction, and at ten minutes past four on Wednesday he passed peacefully away. He left a wife and two sons and was buried at Middleton on Saturday 18, October 1890.
JAMES FOLDS 1814-1889
Cotton Manufacturer and Mayor of Burnley
James Folds was born 6, June 1814, the son of James a well-known builder and contractor, the family lived at Woodgrove. James was educated at the Burnley Grammar school, under the Rev. Dr. John Raws. At an early age, James Folds entered into his father's business, and later along with his brother (Obadiah Folds) embarked into the cotton spinning business. This was 1844, and the premise they first took were Rishton Mill, which used to stand besides the canal on Yorkshire street, roughly where the present day Culvert Filling station is. As business prospered, James took on the Stanley street saw mills, and around 1869 started business as cotton manufacturers at Trafalger street shed, and employed between 350 and 400 hands at the two places. Other positions held by James, included being Chairman of the Keighley Green Mill Company, and Chairman of the Hill Top Mill Company. He was also the executor for Mr Henry Fishwick, who was the joint owner of Pillingfield Mill. On his retirement from the firm he was one of the oldest cotton spinners in the Burnley district. The business was carried on by his two sons, James and Obadiah. He gained a reputation for excellent goods that were unsurpassed in the district. He only bought the very best cotton and spun yarn, both for spinning and weaving, he insisted on having the very finest material for his operatives to work with.
James was also a member of the Blackburn and Addlington Turnpike Trust, and rendered good service looking after the public roads. James Folds was said to have been on the old Town Commissioners, which came into existence in 1821, and which remained in control of the towns' affairs until the Improvement Commissioners in 1846. It was Mr Folds (among others) that had the foresight to purchase the Gasworks under the Improvement Act of 1854. His service on the various committee's led, in 1866 to his election to Mayor of the town, he also served as an Alderman. Almost from its formation, he was connected with the Mechanic's Institute, and was elected as a member of the first body of trustee's in 1853. This was a position he maintained until his death in 1889. As a magistrate, he was most attentive in his duties being appointed to this post in April 1867. His wife was Miss Catlow, the daughter of a former landlord of the Yorkshire Hotel. In later life, James often went to Southport where the fresh sea air gave some comfort to his ailing health. In early March 1889, while at Southport James had a severe attack of what was termed indigestion. However, he appeared to make a recovery, and on the following Wednesday, was able to take a stroll along the pier. That evening saw James take a relapse, and by midnight it was noticed that his breathing was much affected. A Dr Baron was called in, and as no improvement was noticed, Dr Briggs a former Burnley doctor was called. It was soon evident, that there was no hope for the old gentleman, who was after all in his 75th year. The medical men gave what comfort they could till at last, at 2.30 in the morning of 1, April James Folds passed quietly away.
Four of his children were present at their father's death, Councillor Folds, James Folds, Mrs Holroyd and Mrs Ward. James Folds other daughter, Mrs Cooper had left England to join her husband in Calcutta. Ironically, on that Monday morning a letter was received by the family to say she had made a safe arrival. James Folds was brought back to Burnley, and amidst the muffled peal of bells was buried in the family vault at the Parish Church of St. Peter's the following Wednesday.
JOHN HOWORTH 1831-1911
Mayor of Burnley, Honorary Freeman.
We have to announce the death, said one local newspaper in 1911 of "one of the best men, both public and private that Burnley has ever possessed" It was a tribute well deserved, for many men have migrated to this town, and many men have done good by Burnley, but John Howorth was Burnley born and bred. John Howorth first saw the light of day in a grocer shop on St James street on 14, January 1831. He was the second son of Mr Howorth, a grocer who later in life entered the worsted spinning trade. John was educated at a private school in the town before moving on to the Wesley College at Sheffield, from 1843 to 1845. His entrance into public life came in 1872, when the first selection was made for the Borough Magistrates, and he was one of the seven then chosen. Ten years later he was placed on the Commission of the Peace for the County, and he was the oldest County Magistrate in the County. In 1875, John Howorth was returned as representative for the Fulledge Ward. He continued as a member of the Council, and in 1879, he was chosen as Mayor and chief magistrate. He held this position for two years, during which time he was created an Alderman. While on the Council he was Chairman of the Finance Committee and the Water Committee. When the Borough Police Force was formed in June 1887, he was chosen as Chief of the Watch Committee that had the arduous task of organising the force. His interest in education was shown in the fact that he was Governor of the Burnley Grammar School for many years. In 1905, when the three first Freeman of the Borough were created, John Howorth was one of these. A scroll enclosed in a silver casket re-told the duties John Howorth had played in Burnley's history:
"During eighteen years 1875-1893 Mr Howorth was member of Council, being successively Councillor, Alderman and Mayor. For nine years' 1871-1880 he served on the Burnley School Board, and for twenty-four year's 1877-1901 as Governor of the Burnley Free Grammar School. He is now the senior magistrate for the Borough, having been placed on the Commission of the Peace in March 1872, and for twenty five years he has acted as Justice of the Peace for the County Palatine of Lancaster".
John Howorth resided at Park View Todmorden road, an area of town where most of the wealthy and distinguished gentlemen dwelled. It was here that John departed life on 20, December 1911. Following a service at Fulledge Chapel, with which he was closely connected, John's remains were interred at St. Peter's churchyard on 23, December. His demise saw the end of Burnley's ex-Mayor, Justice of the Peace and the oldest magistrate, and an Honorary Freeman of the Borough.
WILLIAM LOMAS 1799-1884
Mayor of Burnley, and Justice of the Peace
When the Burnley Reform Association was founded in February 1886, it was William Lomas who was elected Chairman. The aims of the organisation were "for the advancement of political and social economy and retrenchment in local and imperial taxes". It s first act was to sent to Parliament a petition 18 yards long containing over 4,000 signatures, asking Lord Russell for the reform of Parliament. William Lomas, was born in 1799 at Partridge in Derbyshire, he served an apprentice with his uncle, one Mr Staley, a grocer at Rochdale. Late 1824 or early 1825, he came to Burnley and established a grocer shop at the corner of Curzon street. Later he moved to premises at the top of Bride street, and later still to a shop on Hargreaves street. This latter shop was taken over by Mr Haslam eventually, and used as his wine and spirit outlet. William Lomas, was for many years a member of the Board of Commissioners, and Chairman of the same for a good period. When Burnley achieved the charter of incorporation, William was elected a Councillor at its second meeting in January 1862. In 1865, Mr Lomas was appointed to the position of Alderman, and remained on the Bench for 12 years until November 1877. He was also elected, by just one vote, to become Mayor of the town 1867-8 and 1868-9. On 20, October 1869, William was appointed a county magistrate, and in 1878 became a member of the Borough Bench.
Besides all these posts, he was for some years the Chairman of the Burnley Building Society, and a deacon with the Bethesda chapel. At the ripe age of 84 years, William quietly passed away at his home, Park View Todmorden road on 7, February 1884.
CHRISTIAN MITCHELL 1840-1904
Draper and Mayor of Burnley
Christian Mitchell, was the son of Thomas Mitchell, a grocer in the Fulledge district, the father died in 1855. Following a rudimentary education, at the age of eight years young Christian entered the mill to supplement the family income. Here he learned to weave, and it was among the looms he spent some ten or twelve years of his early life. It was during his employment as a taper in the mill that he entered into marriage, and through thrift and sparse was able to put a little money aside. When the time was right (1868) he began in a small way, by opening a draper shop on Bridge street, named Mill lane then. In 1881 he was returned to Council as representative for the old Bankhouse Ward, he was re-elected in 1882, 1885 and 1888. In 1889, when the wards of the Borough were re-divided and enlarged, Christian was chosen as one of the four new Aldermen on the St. Andrew's Ward. His Council colleagues expressed their esteem for Christian Mitchell by electing him Mayor in 1893. Alderman Christian Mitchell, who was also a Justice of the Peace died at his home on Bank Hall Terrace following a brief illness on 14, March 1904. He was buried at the Burnley cemetery.
JOHN MOORE 1790-1869
Cotton Spinner, Burnley's first Mayor
John Moore was the son of John Moore, a cotton spinner. Around 1848, John junior took over the Trafalger Mill in partnership with William Thompson (1812-1883) In 1854. John is described as a Cotton Spinner and Manufacturer with the firm Thompson and Moore (Trafalger Mill) and at this time he was living on Westgate. Local Government at this time was carried out by a body of elected Commissioners. Anyone wishing to be elected for this position, had to reside within the Police Circle, and had to have property with a rateable value of not less than 20. This meant of course that only those with a good degree of capital and property were selected e.g. mill owners and gentlemen. Following the Burnley Improvement Act of 1854, some sixty Commissioners were elected, and the qualifications reduced to £15 rateable value. Toward the end of 1860, a petition was signed by almost 3,000 of the town's rate payers asking for the status of a corporate town. This was forwarded to the Queen (Victoria) with the description that "The town had considerable trade and manufacture, was very populous and worthy to rank as a corporate town". Thus, on October 24, 1861 the Charter of Incorporation was granted. At its first meeting in January 1862, the elected body made John Moore (now of Palace House) the first Mayor of the town. At this time the Council met in a room over the old fire station on Manchester road. It is recorded that John Moore lived at Palace House on Padiham road in the 1860s, with Sarah his wife and three daughters.
As a cotton master he was said to be strict and stern, and not particularly favoured by his workforce. At his death on 28, October 1869, his obituary barely warranted a dozen sentences. The sole tribute paid was that "he was most assiduous in the discharge of his duties, especially so during the anxious and distressing times of the cotton famine"
WILLIAM ROBINSON 1823-1881
Banker and Mayor of Burnley
Born 3, April 1823, William Robinson came to Burnley around 1855, as a representative of the Craven Bank, and following the retirement of his father became a partner in the Company. Gifted with the advantage of a college education, for he was Master of Arts of the University of Oxford, he was more than capable of taking on the tasks of various local offices to which he was commissioned. For a good number of years he acted as magistrate for the county of Lancashire, and as a Guardian he took a special interest in the administration of the Poor Law. As Chairman of the Building Committee he laid the foundation stone of the then new Workhouse. It was also his Mayoral task to lay the foundation stone for the new Market Hall on 25, October 1866. William was also a member of the Burnley School Board, and a Governor of the Burnley Grammar School, and took an active part in promoting education in the town. William Robinson was elected Mayor of the town 1864-66 and 1877-79. The death of the respected gentleman came on 23, April 1881, at his home Reedley Bank following failing health that lasted a number of years. The high esteem in which he was held showed in his funeral cortege. No less then 40 carriages stretched for almost half a mile, and there were a great number of tributes to his public work. Long before the procession commenced silent crowds assembled and accompanied him to the graveside. "Thus was committed to the earth, and there sleeps one of Burnley's best sons, in the secluded corner of the churchyard at Briercliffe" said one local newspaper of the day.
GENERAL JAMES YORKE SCARLETT 1799-1871
Distinguished soldier and colliery owner.
General James Yorke Scarlett is most famed for his involvement in the Battle of Balaclava, and the Charge of the Heavy Brigade during the Crimean War. The battle was fought on October 25, 1854, and was brought about by an unsuccessful attempt by the Russians to raise the siege of Sevastopol by the British, French and Turkish forces. The battle is primarily famed for the Charge of the Light Brigade, and senseless but heroic British cavalry charge against the Russian field artillery. More than one third of the 673 British troops, commanded by earl of Cardigan (1793- 1868) were killed or wounded. The strongly rhythmic and patriotic poem written by Tennyson the then poet laureate of England immortalised the brave act. Although the brigade understood the foolishness of the command, they did not question it. The most famous lines of the poem, often quoted ironically today, were intended as praise.
Theirs not to make reply, Theirs not to reason why
Theirs but to do and die.
` It was left to General James Yorke Scarlett to lead the Charge of the Heavy Brigade, which did much to save the day. For this act, the General was complimented in the field by the Commander in Chief, and became a national and local hero. James Yorke Scarlett was born 1799, the son of Lord Abinger. He was well educated, both at Eton College, and the Trinity College Cambridgeshire. It was while he was billeted at Burnley in the 5th Royal Dragoon's in a building that used to stand where the Keirby roundabout is today, that he met Charlotte Anne. She was the youngest daughter of Colonel John Hargreaves (the Burnley colliery owner) and immediately fell for the dashing young lieutenant. They were married at the parish church of St. Peter's on December 19, 1835. In 1867 the town of Burnley became a Parliamentary Borough, and the following year the elections were held for the towns first Member of Parliament. Scarlett, being well educated, coming from a wealthy family and a national hero was put forward as a certainty to win the Tory votes. As soon as this was announced however, the foulest denunciation's were cast on the General's character. He was accused of, among other things, cowardice, and "keeping the price of coal high, and out of the reach of common folk". Others accused him of being against the provision of a cemetery for the town, and of bribery. The act of bribery was said to have been brought about by the fact, that the Tory's were paying 10 shillings for each vote cast in their favour. The Liberal's on the other hand could only afford to pay two shillings and sixpence. After "one of the most dirty election campaigns that one could imagine" Mr Richard Shaw won the election.
His majority was 382, and in winning went on to become the first Member of Parliament for the town of Burnley. Just as it was thought the town had turned its back on the old soldier, a remarkable thing happened. The womenfolk of the town drew up a testimonial in the General's honour. They also presented Lady Scarlett with a vase valued at £300, a huge amount for the day. The menfolk of the town, not to be outdone by the women, showed their esteem for the General and collected another £300, presented him with---two more vases! The General, in his gratitude and appreciation threw a huge party. 10,000 of the people of Burnley took part in a procession, and 8,500 sat down to tea in Bank Hall meadow.
General Scarlett resigned from the army on 1, November 1870, having served fifty-two years. The General was also well known for his benevolence to the poor of the town. For instance during the Cotton Famine (1863-64) he gave a lump sum of £500, and a further £20 a month while it lasted. The General and his wife Charlotte Anne lived at Bank Hall, a large home later used as a maternity hospital. Today the site is used as a residential home for the elderly. The site is an ancient one, in the early 1600s it was a half- timbered structured farmhouse, the home of Isabela, who married Nicholas Townley of Royle in 1606.
They only had one daughter Margaret, who married John Ingleby of Lawkland near Clapham Yorkshire. Their daughter, another Isabela married Richard Shereburne of Stoneyhurst, and by this marriage Bank Hall passed into the Shereburne family. Bank Hall was later sold to the Hargreaves family, who re-built the hall. When Col. John Hargreaves died on April 5, 1834, it passed by the marriage of Charlotte Anne his youngest daughter, to General Scarlett. General James Yorke Scarlett died at the age of 72 on December 6, 1871. On the day of the funeral, thousands of the townsfolk lined the streets of Burnley to pay their last respects. Some followed the procession from Bank Hall all the way to the churchyard at Holme Chapel.
ALL THE ABOVE COMPILED BY JACK NADIN
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