Please Sir I Want Some More !

Christmas At The Workhouse 1842

On Christmas day upwards of 130 paupers in Spotland Workhouse were treated to an excellent dinner of roast beef and plum pudding.
They also had half a load of malt brewed into ale.
In the morning most of them attended divine service at Spotland Church.

Quarry Tragedy

Today the Observer reported that two men fell down a quarry on Rooley Moor and both were killed.
This was in 1899.

Time To Play !

The billiard and recreation room was opened at the Fire Station today in 1893.

Let There Be Light !

Today in 1896 the market was first lighted by electricity.

New Window for Church

On December 20th 1915 the memorial window dedicated to Lieutenant O' Neill was seen for the first time at St. Martin's Church Castleton.

Welcome Back !

The Halle Orchestra today in 1918 gave a concert in the Town Hall after a gap of nearly forty years.

Suffragette speaks !

On this day in 1927 Mrs Pankhurst addressed the Conservative meeting in the Territorial Drill Hall.

Newhey Saint Thomas'

Today in 1926 Newhey Parish Church celebrated it's jubilee.
The Church consecrated in December 1876 was built by William and James Heap.

Silver Trowel !

The corner stone of Milton Church was laid today in 1852.
Andrew Stewart laid the stone and was presented with a silver trowel.

Milton Congregational Church, a secession from Providence Chapel opened March 23rd 1854.

Rochdale Market

Rochdale New Market Act was set up today in 1822 which allowed the compulsory purchase of land.

Family Tragedy

According to a Manchester paper for 1821 there was a terrible storm which affected Crinble Mill.
Today Crimble Mill, the property of Mr. Kenyon was blown down.
A spinner, his wife and two infant children were killed by the ruins as they fell on the cottage adjoining.

Hallelujah !

By a select band of vocal and instrumental performers under the direction of Mr. Burchall will be performed at Littleborough Chapel on Tuesday the 13th of December 1794 the sacred oratorio of The Messiah.
Tickets to be had at The Golden Falcon, The Red Lion, Littleborough, The Roebuck, Flying Horse, Golden Fleece, Rochdale and off Mr. J. Howarth junior, Todmorden.

Stew but not as we know it !

On Monday in the workhouse a dish called ' lobby ' was usually served.
This was a stew of mutton and potatoes and was described in Marland Workhouse as
' frequently sour '.

Why That Name ?

The governing body of a parish was known as a vestry. It's name is derived from the room in a church where the priest puts on his vestments.

Workhouse Fare

In 1870 a report in The Lancet gave details of food given to children in the workhouse.
Saturday's dinner consisted of suet pudding and currants and it was described as ' hard as rock '.

Yes but who won?

Manchester Courier on this day in 1841 gives notice of there having been a wrestling match between Rochdale Magistrates and the Police at Slattocks.

Hunt Protester ?

On this day in 1841 a Manchester paper had this news :

Mr. Entwisle's horse was stabbed whilst out hunting.

Farmer arrested and committed to Quarter Sessions without bail.

Mr. Justice Patterson ordered the defendant to be released on bail, the defendant having raised a bona fide question of right.

Corn Law Meeting

According to the Manchester Courier on the 4th of December 1840 : A Dinner was held in Tweedale's Hotel and an address was given by Crawford. 370 persons dined in the large room.

This was amongst the many corn law meetings held around this time.

Pistols at dawn !

Manchester Courier 3rd December 1838 :

Gun Club at Buersill. Whenever the amount contributed is sufficient to buy a gun, lots are drawn as to who shall have it, and so on in succession till each subscriber has obtained one.

A foot of rain !

Rainfall Report

The rainfall for October in Manchester this year was 12.4 inches.

Taken from a Manchester paper 2nd December 1836.

What price water ?

Advert from an early Manchester newspaper, 1st December 1835.

Sale of Bent Meadows

On the westerly side of the off road leading from Rochdale to Whitworth.

Powerful and never failing supply of excellent soft water.

Education Improvements

Lieutenant Colonel Fishwick was appointed Chairman of the School Board.
This has only recently been set up.

Rochdale Observer November 30th 1897.

Time to celebrate

Today in 1896 was the Jubilee of the Bridge Inn Sick and Burial Society.
This was celebrated by a gathering in the Town Hall.
The society numbers over 7,000.

Earthquake Lecture

Prof. John Milne, the eminent seismologist, gave a lecture in the Public Hall on earth movements.


This was on November the 28th 1895.

Time to get your skates on !

On this day in 1909 ' The Palace ' skating rink on High Level Road opened.

Looking after the districts

The first meeting of Buersill Local Board was held today in 1870.

Generous Donation

Mr. T. Bamford, Wardle who died on the 20th of November 1895 left £500 to the Infirmary.

Rochdale is named World Capital of Co-operatives

It is now official. In Cancun at the world Cooperative Congress Rochdale is named World Capital of Co-operatives.

Early Unemployment

According to ' New Annals of Rochdale ' by T. T. Heywood, today in 1863 there were 8,359 persons estimated to be out of work in consequence of the American Civil War.

A Big Thanks

Alderman Livsey was entertained in the Public Hall by 400 Liberals in recognition of 25 years service to the town. An address on vellum was presented to him.

This event took place today in 1863.

Poetic Visit

1811 was also the year that Lord Byron paid his only visit to the town.

Lord Byron was Lord of the Manor of Rochdale until 1823 when he sold it to Mr. James Dearden.

Our Famous Statesman

John Bright was born today in 1811 at Greenbank, Rochdale. He was the second son of Jacob and Martha.
He became one of the leading British statesman of the mid-nineteenth century and is perhaps most remembered for his part in the repeal of the corn laws.
He was an opponent of war and slavery and fiercely campaigned to extend democracy to more working people.

'Touchstones' has an event tonight to celebrate this anniversary.
See advert on this site or contact our centre for more information.

Martin Luther

During this month the non-conformist churches in Rochdale commemorated the 400th anniversary of Luther's birth by holding special services.

Scottish Post

John Bright elected Lord Rector of Glasgow University.

Rochdale Observer 14th of November 1880.

Money Well Spent !

Mr. George Mansell on being elected Mayor, stipulated that instead of giving Mayoral dinners he would, during his term of office, donate £500 to charitable institutions.
He gave the sum to the infirmary.

Taken from New Annals of Rochdale, November 13th 1868.

Remember remember the fifth of November.............

The Heywood ancestry can be traced back to the 12th century. A prominent forbear was Peter 'powderplot ' Heywood who was amongst the men who captured Guy Fawkes.
Fawkes was proclaimed guilty of high treason and sentenced to be hanged, drawn and quartered. On the day of the execution he was aided by the hangman to climb the ladder to the noose and although weakened by torture he managed to jump from the gallows. He fell breaking his neck thus avoiding the latter part of the execution.

Lost !

Concord, a dog belonging to the Rochdale Hunt was lost during a hunt on Shore Moor.
The dog is easily identified as she has the letters ' R. H. ' tattooed in her ears.
Altogether four dogs were lost during the hunt.

Rochdale Observer 4th of November 1957.

The Workhouse Day !

This is an entry from November 1839, Spotland Workhouse Diary:

Pensioner Butterworth goes out when he will

he thinks he is above asking leave

and says he pays for his Meate

but he as had a deal of Clothing

we have a very useful lad that goes out

with Sand and other jobs

last night he beat him unmercyfully that

the lad is not fit for work

our Number is on the increase

Beate Mielemeier

On this day last year Beate Mielemeier died.

Beate was the Arts Development Officer for Rochdale Borough.

This was printed on the card given out at her funeral:

Beate,

a beautiful, positive life force who shared her creative spirit, energy, humour, wisdom, inspiration, encouragement, warmth and love so generously adding something very special, to so many people's lives.

Important buiding for Richard Street

Today in 1927 Lord Derby opened the new Masonic Temple in Richard Street.

We must have needed more than hope !

This paragraph is taken from a book called : Rochdale in the beginning of the 17th century by Henry Fishwick.

Vigorous as has been Rochdale's progress in the past, we must hope that it's future be no less so, for if the time ever comes that towns like this shall fall away into decay, the day will not be far distant when England's greatness - like the glory of ancient Rome - shall have departed from her, and her former strength and power shall have become the theme of the historian and poet.

Our Own Appleby !

Public Notice displayed from the 30th of October 1828 :

Rochdale Horse Fair will be held on Friday the 7th of November beginning in Clover Street and extending along Cheetham Street.
As usual this fair will be continued each succeeding half-year in May and November.

Watch Out !

An early Manchester paper from 29th of October 1830 had this report :

Henry Collingwood, Jeweller has had a recent robbery.
The Blackwater Street premises were entered through the roof. 20 silver and metal watches were stolen. The roof which is low communicates with another still lower, that at one part may almost be ascended without ladder from the pavement to the street.

Improve Our Town

Today in 1852 a meeting took place to set in motion the steps for obtaining a new Improvement Act.

Blue Ball For Sale

Manchester Guardian report 26th of October 1845 :

Sale of Blue Ball
All that old established and well accustomed Inn or Public House called the Blue Ball, situate in Yorkshire Street, Rochdale. The Brew House, Stable and other outbuildings and yard thereunto belonging, now occupied by Richard Holt and his under tenents.

For further particulars apply to :
Messrs. Woods and Jackson,
Solicitors,
Rochdale.

Pay Rise !

The Manchester Guardian on this day in 1843 had this piece of news :

Mr James Archer, Woollen Manufacturer, Yorkshire Street, Rochdale has advanced his hand loom weavers wages by ten per cent.

The John Bright Statue

In 1891 on this day John Bright's statue was unveiled on the Town Hall Square.
The statue is 9 feet high and stands on a pedestal of 11 feet.
The cost was £2,000.

The statue was moved to it's present site in July 1933.


Please call in and see the material we have on John Bright in our library including a display of photographs to mark the bicentenary of his birth next month.

Special Event

Today in 1913 Lord Derby opened the Conservative Bazaar in the Town Hall which lasted four days.
This event realised £1,600.

Infectious Disease

Today in 1902 there was an announcement stating that smallpox had broken out in Rochdale.

The Boer War Tablet

Forty two Rochdalians died at Spion Kop and Paarberg during the hostilities in South Africa and it was resolved today in 1905, that a monument should be erected in their memory.
However, so little money was raised by the public appeal that the committee had to be content with the laying of a bronze tablet at the tower entrance to the Town Hall.

The tablet was unveiled by Brigadier General Fry and there was an extremely large turnout for the ceremony.

The Workhouse day, 20th of October 1841

On the 20 Carles Holt came in to the house and sarah schofield had 4 yards of calico for 2 shifts and 3 yards of Blue cloth for a petty coate - ann Lomax had 6 yards of flannel for 2 petty coates

Part of the report of Mary Cheetham, Workhouse Mistress, May 1841 to November 1842.

Probably wouldn't happen today !

Today in 1900 a Stag was caught at The Greave after being chased through several districts.

From New Annals of Rochdale, T.T. Heywood.

Notes from the Workhouse

This is the entry for October 18th 1843 in the Spotland Workhouse Diary :

Last Monday William Butterworth the old joiner died and on the same day a man of the name of Jas Sutlife came into the House.
The suden change of weather has affected some of the inmates so that we have had to have the Doctor 2 or 3 times this week.

Good Buy !

The Wellington Hotel was sold for about £15,000, on this day in 1922.

From New Annals of Rochdale by T. T. Heywood.

Mr. John Bright

'There is no more controversial a figure in nineteenth century politics than John Bright.'

'John Bright was the most important figure in the history of mid-victorian radicalism.'

'John Bright was the greatest of all Parliamentary orators.'

Learn more by going to the 'Discover' part of our website then 'Focused on People' and then 'John Bright'.

If you are able please call in at Touchstones to see our John Bright collection.

John Bright Celebrations

Call in at the Local Studies Library to find out about John Bright.

Born in November 1811 we have many events planned to celebrate the centenary.

News but not as we know it !

From The Manchester Courier October 14th 1843 :

There is at the present time in a garden belonging to Mr. Peter Dale, reed maker, near the Queen Ann Inn, Heap near Bury an apple tree in full bloom.
On Saturday evening last or early on Sunday morning some person or persons entering the garden of Mr. John Taylor of Hooley Bridge, near the same place, and took a quantity of gooseberries off a tree. They were a second crop and were of a moderate size.

Cyril Smith Event

In our Town Hall today we have the official unveiling of the Blue Plaque dedicated to the late Cyril Smith.
The Local Studies Library is displaying some material here so please come and take a look.
We have a wealth of material on Cyril Smith in our collection which we have gathered over many years and you can see this at any time by visiting Touchstones.

Pay Award

Plug Drawing Riots

3/- a day paid to special constables for their services in August last. 82 claimants.


This was reported in a Manchester paper on the 12th of October 1842

Fair back again

Littleborough Cow and Sheep Fair.

We understand that this ancient fair is to be established again at Littleborough.
It will take place on the 22nd instant when prizes are to be awarded for the
best bulls, cows, calves, sheep and pigs.


This advertisement was in the Manchester Courier on the 11th of October 1842.

Plug Drawing

Two men committed to Kirkdale for drawing the plugs from boilers belonging to the cotton mills of George Hardman, Shawforth in August.

This was reported on the 10th of October 1842 in a Manchester paper.


For more information on this subject go back to the ' Discover ' part of the website then
' Riots and Radicalism '.

Reward for services

On the 9th of October 1840 this was reported in a Manchester newspaper :

Police Officer Woolley had been given the William IV Coronation Staff.

New Man At The Top !

Today in 1842 a Manchester paper stated :

Carswell appointed Inspector of Police for Rochdale.
The appointment has been made at the request of a large number of gentlemen shopkeepers.
Carswell distinguished his self during the late disturbances.
He was efficient in the old police force in Manchester for several years.

Demise of notable figure

Today in 1822 a Manchester newspaper reported :

In recent days we have had news of the death of Robert Beswick Esq. of Pike House near Rochdale. He was in the 72nd year of his year

End of an era !

Moss School closed today in 1891, it had existed for 122 years.

Today in 1877

Healey Wesleyan Chapel opened today, 20th of September 1877.

War Memorial

Dr. Temple as Bishop of Manchester dedicated the War Memorial at St. Peter's Newbold.

This was on the 19th of September 1928.

Grand Opening

Mr. W. T. Kelly M. P. opened the new Labour Exchange in Station Road.

This was reported in the Rochdale Observer on the 18th of September 1928.

Was it Dick Turpin ?

A Manchester paper reported that:

On the 17th of September 1835 Mr. A. H. Royds and Mr. W. E. Royds were robbed by
3 Highwaymen at Slattocks.

Did you know ?

The tower and spire of the Town Hall measure 191 ft. 6ins.
It is 396 ft. above sea level.
The bells were cast by Taylor and Co., Loughborough and cost £676. Together they weigh
about 7 tons.
The extreme length of the Town Hall is 101 yards and the greatest width is 41 yards and
it covers an area of 3,000 square yards.

Accident

The Rochdale Observer for the 15th of September 1899 had this report :

On September the 11th the Blackpool train was in a collision at Manchester
Victoria, amongst the injured were some Rochdale people.

New Attraction !

During September 1875 the new skating rink was opened at Sladen's, Hollingworth Lake.

Growing their own !

On the 13th of September 1850 ' Rochdale Freeholders Benefit Society ' was formed.
Twenty four acres of land on the Freehold were purchased for £10,000 and divided into 500 allotments.

Visitor

During September 1847 Thomas Carlyle visited John Bright at his house One Ash.

This is from New Annals of Rochdale by T.T. Heywood.

Clean Water !

According to New Annals of Rochdale, September 1840.

Spodden Brook was fished at this time

East Lancashire Nomenclature by H.C. March

The first appearance of Rochdale in writing is in the Doomsday Book, where it is spelt
Racedham.In 1170 it is written Rachdam. Soon after 1200 the township of Rochdale
is called Villa Castella Rachedham. Hence we may confidently conclude that the pronunciation was Ratchdam.
In 1291 it is written Rakedale.This was due to Scandanavian influence. Dale is a Norse term for a wide valley and is quite distict from the Saxon dell.

Some odd facts from ' New Annals of Rochdale'

From 1841 to 1874 James Lee known as 'Downham' was Huntsman.
He is buried in Smallbridge Churchyard and on his death bed he asked for the hounds to
be brought up so he could say good bye to them.


The Baum takes its name from the local legend that a 'baum rappit' apparition
haunted the neighbourhood.


St. Chad's church steps are 122 in number.


Hollingworth Lake covers 120 acres.


Rochdale Canal cost nearly £500,000 to construct.


Mayor's chain and badge of office cost £250.


The Town Hall clock long hand is about 7 feet and the short hand about 5 feet in length.


John Bright and Brothers, Fieldhouse Mills were the first to use electric light in Rochdale.

Unlikely winner !

On the 8th of September 1893 a swimming match was held between Sir James Duckworth J.P.,
Mayor of Rochdale and Councillor James Diggle.
Councillor Diggle, who only had one arm, was the winner.

Heavy Rains !

The Rochdale Observer for the 7th of September 1861 states :

The enbankment of Lea mill dam, Watergrove gave way owing to heavy rains, the damages are
£1,000.

Very early education

'New Annals of Rochdale', states that in September 1847 the Grammar School on Sparrow Hill
began to be built.

Art for all

The Rochdale Observer for 1889 reported that the School of Art in the Town Hall was
inaugurated on the 2nd of September.

The Sewage Works

Sewage scheme, Roach Mills, extended. The total cost so far as of 1st of September 1896 is £72,000.

Taken from New Annals of Rochdale by T.T. Heywood.

Horsing Around !

The Observer for the 31st of August 1886 had this report :

The drinking fountain and pillar lamp opposite the Wellington Hotel, which was presented
to the town by the Rochdale Pioneers in 1855, was demolished by a runaway horse.

Club Refurbished

Today in 1929 Lord Rochdale re-opened the British Legion Club after alterations.

Facts from New Annals of Rochdale

1642 : Garrison of 1,200 men placed in the town and 800 more on Blackstone Edge during the Civil War.

1643 : Three hedgehogs for the church supplied at a cost of 1 shilling also a pound of candles
at a cost of 4 pennies.

1678 : Collections made in the churches in thr parish towards rebuilding Saint Pauls Cathedral.

1691 : The Flying Horse, Packer Street opened this year.

1721 : Letters despatched to and from Manchester and Rochdale three times weekly and vice versa.

1724 : Daniel Defoe went over Blackstone Edge in a snowstorm.

Queen Victoria

A Manchester Newspaper reported this today in 1839 :

People objected to the Queen travelling by rail, declaring that she had no right to put in peril
a life so valuable to the nation.

Omnibus Time Tables

This information is from the ' Local Matters ' section of The Rochdale Clothing Company
Journal, August 1879.

Rochdale to Bacup from the Spread Eagle Hotel : 10.30 am, 1.30, 5.0, 7.30 pm.

Bury from the Roebuck Hotel : 9.15 am, 11.00, 12.15, 2.30, 4.45, 6.30, 8.00 and 9.30.

Littleborough from the Reed Hotel : 9.00 am, 11.30, 1.00, 2.00, 2.30, 3.30, 4.30, 5.30,
6.00, 7.00, 8.00.

Norden from the White Hart, Spotland Road : 10.00, 11.15, 2.30, 5.30, 7.00, 9.00.

A night out in 1866

This advert appeared in a Household Almanack for 1866.

LONDON MUSIC HALL
Drake Street, Rochdale
A grand concert each evening, commencing at 7 p.m.

Singing, Gymnastic exercises, Dancing &.
Fresh talent weekly.

Cricket Champions

Rochdale won the Central Lancashire League cricket championship on the 25th of August 1956 for the 19th time.

Dancing Stage

The Rochdale Monthly Illustrated Journal for August 1868 had this advertisement:

Mr. James Sladen, proprietor of the Beach Hotel, Hollingworth Lake has one of the
most spacious ' Dancing Stages ' in the country.
There is a band in attendance daily ( wet or fine ).
Miss H. Ridings will preside at the Pianoforte inside the Hotel daily.
Teas, Dinners and other Refreshments.

N.B. J.S. will endeavour to preserve the strictest order and decorum on his premises
and requests that any irregularities may be reported to him.

St. James' Church Calderbrook

Today in 1860 the foundation stone of St. James' Church Calderbrook was laid by J. G. Dearden, Esquire, Lord of the Manor.

Nice Place To Meet

An Observer report from 1865 stated that on August the 21st a large group of colliers held a meeting at Hollingworth Lake.
They arrived from all the surrounding towns.

More on the shipwreck

Bodies from the Rothesay Castle disaster were washed up over a wide area of Anglesey but the body of William Bottomley was found near Blackpool.
William Bottomley was a Cotton Spinner at Rakewood Mill and was 28 years old.
He is buried in ' The Friends Burial Ground ' at Rochdale.
As a result of this disaster, a lifeboat was established at Penmon on the S. E. tip of Anglesey in 1832 and a lighthouse built there in 1837.

The Rothesay Castle

This report is from a Manchester paper dated 20th of August 1831 :

Wreck of the Rothesay Castle.
The steam packet plying between Liverpool and Bangor. This is the worst calamity since the first introduction of steam navigation.
There were three Rochdale passengers lost; George King brother to James King, manufacturer, William Bottomley and Benjamin Lees.
There were 93 lives lost in total and 23 passengers rescued.

The Eight Hours Question ?

Rochdale Observer August 19th 1892 :
Result today of a ballot of the Rochdale and District Power Loom Weavers' Association on the eight hours question, declared : 1,010 voted for, 850 against adopting the system.
Out of 600 spinners, 282 voted for, 93 against.


The Industrial Revolution in Britain meant the working day could range from 10 to 16 hours for six days a week.
There was a demand for a 10 hour day in 1810 and by 1817 Robert Owen coined the slogan :
Eight hours labour, eight hours recreation, eight hours rest.

Early History

Some interesting facts from New Annals of Rochdale :

1040 - Gamel the Thane held the Manor of Rochdale under Edward the Confessor.

1240 - Charter to hold a weekly market and an annual fair granted to Edmund de Lascy by Henry III.

1253 - Henry III granted to the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem the right to try thieves, hold an assize of bread and ale and erect a gallows within their lands in Butterworth.

1290 - Deer were common in the district.

1340 - Subsidy levied on the Parish to enable the King to carry on the war with France.

1380 - Poll Tax of one shilling levied on persons over fifteen years of age living in the Parish.

1514 - Wheat was eleven shillings per quarter; ale twopence per gallon.

1547 - Woollen trade of the Parish described as being ' very considerable '.

1565 - Grammar School founded by Archbishop Parker.

1600 - Archery was a popular pastime in the town.

1608 - Cattle fair began to be held three times daily.

1623 ' Sweating sickness ' visited the Parish, 587 burials took place in the churchyard.

1638 - Sir John Byron purchased the Manor of Rochdale.

Garden Benefactor!

Rochdale Observer for the 19th of August 1891 had this to say:

The first portion of the terraces on the slopes opposite the Free Library have been completed from designs and at the sole cost of Mr. James Ogden, Kilnerdeyne.

The Rushbearing

The Pilot and Rochdale Reporter for August 1847 had this article on Rushbearing:

This annual festival occuring at this time of our publication leads us to pen a short notice of the origin and present state of the ceremony.
Up to the 16th century the floors of dwellings were not commonly formed of wood, flags or brick but of a mixture of clay, lime or sand. This flooring was not very convenient so to increase the comfort it was universally the custom to cover the floor with rushes. Rushes were plentyful as generally the land was undrained and poorly cultivated. This practice was an inconvenient and filthy one and which could only be tolerated where the people were low in the scale of civilization, for every kind of filth was harboured by the rushes which lay all winter.
The practice was gradually discontinued but did not extend to the churches, clay floors were in use to a much later date. By degrees a number of persons joined in the labour of carrying or bearing the rushes into the church and when carrying them in, the company would adorn them with flowers eventually parading them through the town.
The introduction of pews cushioned and carpeted has done away with the necessity of rushes and around the same period carts were invented and as a novelty they were introduced to assist in the show.

Soiree !

Rochdale Observer report August 16th 1859

A soiree in honour of Mr. Richard Cobden was held in a monstre marquee in Milkstone Road.
Nearly 2,000 persons were present, amongst whom were several members of parliament and the leading politicians of the day.
On the following night a public meeting was held in the same place, at which, near 5,000 persons were present.

Another soiree at Sparrow Hill School was held on the same date but in 1863 to celebrate the restoration of the Parish Church of Saint Chad.

( This gave the church an organ chamber, a vestry and the font was placed by the south door. )

Pews For Sale

An advert in a Manchester newspaper for the 15th of August 1850 stated:

Sale of materials at Saint Bartholomew's Church Whitworth.
93 pews in the Tuscan style to seat 50.
Sale on the 22nd of August.

Cutlasses !!!

Special Constables were sworn in, the old pensioners were called up and the police were supplied with cutlasses.
There was, however, no breach of the peace.

This report was in the Manchester Courier on the 14th of August 1842.

At this time 'plug riots' were common-to find out what these were go to the 'Discover ' part of the website and then 'Riots and Radicalism '.

Chartists

On the 13th of August 1839 this was reported in a Manchester newspaper:

A large mob of Chartists, some thousands in number, came along the road from Heywood.
Accordingly the military drove them back to Heywood.

To find out more about Chartists go to the ' Discover ' part of the site and then 'Chartists '.

Charter

A meeting of gentlemen at the Commissioners Rooms, 12th of August next, to take steps for a Charter of Incorporation for the town of Rochdale.

This information was in a Manchester paper dated August 12th 1855.

Relief Of The Poor

The Manchester Courier published this information :
In 1850 the cost of relief of the poor of Rochdale Union was£9,609 with the average amount for each pauper being £3.9.0.
Thomas Livsey said it was better to give temporary relief than compel a man to enter a workhouse, as he then lost self-respect and would probab;y become a confirmed pauper.

Blackpool Promenade !

Following on from yesterday here is a little more information on the Manchester and Leeds Railway and the Summit Tunnel :

The Tunnel had a workforce of between 800 and 1,25o men and boys aided by about 100 horses and 13 stationary engines used mainly for hauling excavated material out of the shafts.
Inside it every piece of rock was hewn using only hand tools by candlelight.
The railway track was laid directly onto chunks of the excavated rock but later more traditional wooden sleepers were used. The rocks weren't wasted as they were later used to construct part of Blackpool Promenade.
The first section of the Manchester and Leeds Railway from Manchester to Littleborough was formally opened on the 3rd of July 1839 with the Summit Tunnel completed and the whole line opened on the 1st of March 1841.
The engineer was George Stephenson.

Railway Men

A Manchester paper dated the 9th of August 1838 had this to say:
Disturbances in Rochdale by 30 Navigators who paraded the streets with bludgeons and knocked down one of the Watchmen, James Woolfenden, who has since been unable to follow his employment.
Fines of 40/- and costs were imposed.


These men were probably engaged in building the Summit Railway Tunnel with work on the air shafts in full swing by 1838.

Claims For Compensation

On Friday and Saturday last a jury sat to adjudicate upon the sums to be paid for the houses situate in the Old Market Place, that are intended to be pulled down by the Commissioners for the purpose of widening that part of the street.
Mr. Edmund Taylor asked £2,650. This case was arranged without coming before the jury by the Commissioners paying Mr. Taylor £2,375 for the buildings and the loss of his business.
Mr. Samuel Taylor's case was also settled without a jury by the Commissioners paying him £750.
In both cases the Commissioners are to pay all expenses.

This was reported on the 8th of August 1847 in a Manchester paper, the Rochdale Observer didn't begin publication until 1856.

Huge Gathering !

On the 7th of August 1846 a Manchester paper stated :

Chartist Gathering on Blackstone Edge. On Sunday Messrs. Fergus O'Connor, Ernest Jones ( described as a Chartist poet ) Dr. P. McDouall, present. 12,000 people present.

Go to the ' Discover ' part of the website, then ' Chartists ' to find out more.

Watch where you're going !

Tom Livsey was summoned by the vicar for trespassing on the coach road leading from the Vicarage into Manchester Road.
He was fined 1/- and had to pay expenses.

The vicar at this time was John E. N. Molesworth ( 1839-1877 ).

This was reported in a Manchester paper on the 6th of August 1842.

' Talkies '

An Observer report for the 5th of August 1930 had this to say :
Yesterday Rochdale Hippodrome opened as a cinema with 'Talkies '.
The first on the list of films is Betty Compson's musical revue, 'The Street Girl '.
Dress Circle 1/3 Stalls 1/- Front Stalls 6d
Box Office open daily from 10a.m.
Tel. 2163

Turnout of Iron Moulders

On Monday morning there was a a general turnout of all the moulders in Rochdale for an advance of wages from 28/- to 30/- per week. The men still remain out and the masters seem determined not to give the advance demanded.

( They remained on strike for two months ).

This is from a Manchester paper dated 4th of August 1834.

Church Wall Swept Away !

An Observer report for the 5th of August 1897 stated : Severe storms hit Rochdale at mid-day, part of the Parish Church wall was swept away and also a man was killed by lightning near Shawforth.

The One That Got Away !

An eel weighing 7lb 1oz and 3ft. 7ins. long was caught in the canal.

This event happened on the 2nd of August and is mentioned in Annals of Rochdale by Robert D. Mattley.

The Trouble With Magistrates.

This is from an early Manchester paper dated 1st 0f August 1835.

We understand that the Magistrates appointed are W. Mann, Henry Staley and Thomas Chadwick. We congratulate the people of Rochdale that the Royds' and men of that stamp will not now be so rampant as they have been.

Take the pledge ?

According to a Manchester newspaper published on the 2nd of August 1845 a Temperance Society was formed on the 31st of July at the new school attached to Messrs. Brights mill. Mr. Jacob Bright Jr. presided and 30 persons took the pledge.

New Organ for Littleborough

On Sunday 25th of July 1830 the new organ by Nicholson of Rochdale opened at Trinity Chapel Littleborough.

This was reported in a Manchester newspaper on the 30th of July 1830. The Rochdale Observer didn't start publication until 1856.

Out of Order !

The Rochdale Observer for the 1st of August 1956 had this report :

Heavy storms hit Rochdale with nearly three inches of rain in four days. The heavy rain and high winds played havoc with the telephone installations with many subscribers instruments being reported as ' out of order '.

Old Stocks

On this day in 1891 the old stocks were erected in St. Chad's Churchyard.
They were originally outside the churchyard, near the church gate and in 1796 they were so much worn with frequent use that they had to be repaired !

This information is taken from 'Annals of Rochdale ' by Robert D. Mattley.

Pilgrimage !

Fifteen nationalities were represented as sixty students visited Rochdale the birth place of Co-operation.

This was reported in the Observer on the 31st of July 1926.

Huge Productivity !

A HUNDRED TONS OF COAL PER DAY. This headline is from the Observer for the 31st of July 1926.
Great activity prevails on Haugh Hey hillside, above Ogden, where upwards of five hundred men - some of whom come from Scotland and Wales - are engaged in getting coal from the outcrops.

Centenary Flower Bed

The Observer for the 28th of July 1956 had this report :

To achieve something decorative with life in it has been the dream of gardeners at Falinge Park. They have been successful and have created a Centenary Flower Bed Display using almost 14,000 plants.


The Centenary in 1956 was to commemorate the formation of the Borough in 1856.

Ena Sharples in Rochdale

With microphone in hand, Violet Carson ( Ena Sharples in Coronation Street ) interviewed William Henry Schofield for the radio programme ' My Country's Best - Lancashire '. This was because Mr. Schofield was a Knur and Spel veteran.

Knur and Spel was known as poor man's golf. For more information go to the ' Discover' part of the website then on to ' Fun and Games '.

This appeared in the Observer on the 28th of July 1956.

' Sunday Half Hour ' from Rochdale !

The Observer headline for the 25th of July 1956 states :

Annual Sing to be broadcast by B.B.C. in ' Sunday Half Hour '.
At a meeting of the committee, held at the Town Hall, the secretary was able to inform them that efforts had been successful and that the British Broacasting Corporation would broadcast the 1956 Centenary Sing on the Light Programme.

No Observer !

Due to a printers strike the Rochdale Observer on the 22nd of July 1922 did not appear again until the 30th of August.

Holroyds

On this day in 1902 the Observer reported :

John Holroyd and Company were registered today with a capital investment of £20,000.

What a good service !

This Advert is taken from the Observer 20th July 1926.

If you are holidaying in the Blackpool District leave your grocery and provision order at any of our Rochdale and District branches.
Goods delivered at your apartment to wait your arrival.

James Duckworth Ltd.

Littleborough's climate

'The climate is somewhat damp but bracing' says Dr. J. T. R. McGill Medical Officer of Health for Littleborough.

This was reported in the Rochdale Observer on the 17th July 1926.

Home News

AT THE SEASIDE

Copies of the Observer may be had at the following newsagents :

Blackpool - W. H. Smith and Son, Talbot Road and Central Station.
St. Annes - J. W. Lambert, The Bridge, near Station.
Southport - E. Kelly & Sons, 22, Lord Street.

This advert appeared in the July 31st edition of the Observer in1926.

Hollingworth Lake Advert

If you cannot go to the seaside don't be downhearted-but take an enjoyable outing to
HOLLINGWORTH LAKE
incorporating motor boat trips, daily dancing, children's playground, grand musical promenade concerts, Lake Hotel and tea rooms.
Roll up in your thousands. A hearty welcome to all.

From the July issues of the Rochdale Observer for 1926.

Rochdale Holdays

The first annual Rochdale Holiday in July took place in bad weather, the wettest week of the year !

This was the 19th to the 26th of July 1930.

Dirty Old Town

The Rochdale Observer for July 3rd 1926 had this report:

The major portion of the town council meeting on Thursday was occupied by an important statement by the chairman of the health committee on the repeated statement that Rochdale has the most polluted atmosphere of any town in England.

Lord Derby in Rochdale

On July the 8th the new Rochdale Post Office was opened by Lord Derby.

From the Rochdale Observer 1927.

Garden Party

From the Rochdale Observer July 13th 1926.

The first Garden Party arranged by the Women's Suffrage Society was held in the grounds of Chamber House.

Dishonest Dentist

Former Rochdale Dentist sent to penal servitude for fraud.
The Judge stated that he was the kind of person from whom the public needed to be protected for a considerable time.

Rochdale Observer report July 7th 1926.

Agricultural Show

From the Rochdale Observer July 7th 1926.

Excellent exhibits at this years Agricultural Show.
On Saturday in ideal weather Rochdale held it's twenty first show. The athletic ground, Milnrow Road was the venue.

Summer Underwear

From the Rochdale Observer July 10th 1926.

Advert : D. Turner & Co. 81-83 Yorkshire Street.
Summer Underwear
Ladies Combinations in silk/wool and lightweight ribbed wool Camy Knickers in the newest styles.

Royal Visit

King George and Queen Mary visited Rochdale. Large crowds on the town square as they opened the Infirmary extension by pressing a button on a stand !

From the Rochdale Observer July 9th 1913.

Prepare for your holidays !

Advert published in the Rochdale Observer July 15th 1926 :
Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society Ltd.
Prepare for your holidays. Holiday Suits 50/- to measure. Suits made to measure 57/6.

Rare Orchids Poisoned By Weedkiller.

A prized colony of rare wild orchids at Healey Dell has been wiped out by Rossendale Council workmen. They were growing on a grass verge and although in a nature reserve, it is council procedure to spray with weedkiller, roadside verges.

Rochdale Observer 24th June 1988..

Tripe and Cowheel Cycle Competition

Advert from the Rochdale Observer July 10th 1926.
Boys and Girls ! Your last chance to win a spledid cycle. The great U.C.P. Tripe and Cowheel Prize Cycle Competition, closes July 31st.

There Goes Gracie Mill Chimney

A article and photograph in the Rochdale Observer dated 1st June 1988 showed the famous steeplejack Fred Dibnah demolishing the chimney at Arkwright Mill where Gracie Fields once worked as a mill girl.

Crest Mill To Be Sold?

Crest Mill was founded in 1906 and reconstituted in 1919 and is one of the largest spinning mills in Lancashire. It contains 72,504 ring spindles and on full production employs 450 operatives. The mill closed in April 1941 under the war-time concentration scheme.

Rochdale Observer 25th June 1947

Bees Set Poser For police

On Tuesday a swarm of bees decided to disgrace themselves and their owner by moving to a tree near Fieldhead Avenue and staying there. Inspector Waller who with honeyed words and a good deal of patience persuaded the bees that a public highway was not the place for their excitement.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 21st June 1947

Bird sets fire to carpet

There was a tremendous shock for a man and his wife when a blackbird fell down their chimney. The unfortunate bird which had caught fire on it's descent, set fire to a rug and a carpet.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 30th June 1956

Dialect Society Pilgrimage

Over seventy members of The Edwin Waugh Dialect Society went on their annual pilgrimage to Waugh's Well in Waterfoot. The members commented that it had been 'the best ever outing' to the well.

Article taken from The Rochdale Observer 30th June 1956

Serve Rochdale competition

A competition run by the Young Readers Club asked the children of Rochdale to write a letter about people that served Rochdale. The winning letters included the parks superintendent, the headmistress at the Grammar School, the editor of the Observer and the chief of the fire brigade.

Article form Rochdale Observer dated 30th June 1956.

Car maintenance classes prove popular for women

An article in the Rochdale Observer dated 30th June 1956 stated that car maintenance classes for women were proving popular. When asked his opinion on women drivers the instructor a Mr E M Lewis commented 'Either she is exceptionally good or awfully bad.'

Waterworks Exhibition

A public notice appeared in the Rochdale Observer dated 30th June 1956 inviting the public to visit 'The Waterworks Exhibition' at the filter house and reservoir at Watergrove. Free transport was to be provided from the Town Hall Square.

Model of Cologne Cathedral

A photograph of a model of Cologne Cathedral appeared in the Rochdale Observer on 16th June 1956. The model had been made by Mr William Pollitt and had taken twenty four years to complete. For the first eleven years Mr Pollitt had worked solely with the aid of drawings in a text book. Sir Clement Royds paid for Mr Pollitt and his wife to visit Cologne so they could see the Cathedral first hand.

Rochdale Trades and Labour Council

The main topic discussed at a meeting at the Rochdale Trades and Labour Council was the fear of mass unemployment unless automation is controlled.

Rochdale Observer 16th June 1956

A swarm of bees

A swarm of bees were smoked out of a hedge at Francil Farm, Marland by Mr Butterworth. He feared that the bees would upset the animals on his farm.

Rochdale Observer 16th June 1956

German visitors

German visitors from Rochdale's twin town Bielefeld commented that Rochdale was 'not a sooty town and had nice residential streets.'

Reported in the Rochdale Observer 13th June 1956

Ceylon cinema closes

The Ceylon cinema closed after forty one years. The last film shown was 'Flame of the Islands.'

Rochdale Observer 13th June 1956

Centenary Exhibition at the Drill Hall

A centenary exhibition was held at the Territorial Drill Hall. Street scenes were recreated showing coach and horses and women dressed in shawls. There was also a hand loom weaver's cottage showing a model of an operative at work.

Article taken form Rochdale Observer dated 9th June 1936

Boy's River Ordeal

Three boys faced a river ordeal after finding a dinghy in Spotland and sailing it into Rochdale town centre. When one of the boys got out to test the depth of the water the dinghy capsized.

After struggling in the water the boys scrambled to the river bank and called for help. After being treated for shock and exposure at hospital they were allowed to return home.

7th May 1975, page 1.

Rochdale Observer

Builders blocked by birds

A family of squatters has halted work on a Littleborough house. The family comprises of a couple of blackbirds and their five hungry fledglings.

The builder quipped "we've got 18,000 riding on this house and no union labour but we've still been blocked".

The birds should soon quit the nest. Chicks stay for 14 to 16 days and once they leave they don't come back.

24th May 1986

Rochdale Observer

Crumbs!

Firemen broke down the door of a hairdresser's shop on College Bank to find smoke coming from the back room.

On further inspection they found a smouldering packet of biscuits left on a portable cooker- oh crumbs!

10th May 1975, page 3.

Rochdale Observer

Nudes in the wood at the Lake

A nudist colony is being planned at Hollingworth Lake. Sunbathers who like to do it in the nude maybe given special facilities in a neighbouring wood. Councillor Albert S Anderson will bring the matter up after being lobbied by a group of local naturists.

Double Trouble

Names were to be a problem for the new Council formed in 1975 with four pairs of councillors having the same surname.

All this confusion comes from:

• two Stotts who were both Liberals.


• two Browns who were both Labour.


• the Jenkins who were both Liberals.


• the Ogdens who were both Conservatives.

Taken from the Rochdale Observer, on 3rd May 1975, page 3.

When your home is on fire and the Mayor turns up

The Mayor went out with the emergency services last Friday night.

By the time he went home Councillor Stott had seen a house fire, two assault victims, a sprained ankle and roof top burglars.

7th May 1983

Rochdale Observer

Doomed Newts Saved

A colony of newts have a new home after a rescue operation from a Norden garden. Pupils of Healey Primary School and Thrum Hall Middle School helped to transfer about a hundred and twenty newts on Thursday from Hutchinson Road to Healey Primary School's specially built pond and two other ponds in Oldham.

10th May 1986, page 61.

Rochdale Observer

'Fireball' seen again

A 'ball of fire' was spotted above Wardle. It looked like a bonfire flickering in the distance then slowly going out. One theory is that the air was saturated with chemicals which form themselves into a thermal ball. One sighting described the fireball as having "the same intensity as a sodium street light" and added "at first we thought it was a plane crashing".

3rd May 1975, page 2.

Rochdale Observer

Oh Well Run Mr Porter

Reverend Kenneth Porter the jogging Vicar completed the 980 mile run from John O' Groats to Lands End at 3:30pm on Monday.

He expects his super slog to bring in around £10,000 for Manchester Children's Hospital.

4th May 1983

Rochdale Observer

Layers of Landscape

Layers of Landscape is a new exhibition from our permanent fine art collection bringing together both historic and contemporary art to explore artists different interpretations of landscape.

The exhibition underlines the quality of the fine art collection with paintings by Royal Academicians Adrian Berg (b.1929), Peter Coker (1926-2004), CRW Nevinson (1889-1946) and Rochdale’s own Edward Stott (1855-1918). Contemporary takes on landscape highlighted in the show include 2010 Fourth Plinth nominee Mariele Neudecker and Luke Gottelier whose work features in the recent British Art Now show at the Saatchi Gallery, London. The exhibition also includes recent acquisitions by Alan Rankle, Kenneth Lawson and Rochdale-based Vincent James alongside one of the collection’s earliest paintings attributed to Jan Baptist Wolfaerts dating from the 17th century.

The exhibition includes fun hands-on activities to engage younger visitors with the artworks on display, including a new set of activities aimed specifically at under 5s and their carers linked to particular paintings and themed around different types of landscape.

The exhibition is free and runs until 10 March 2012.

Touchstones Rochdale is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm.

Entrance to Universities

Entrance to Universities Most people will agree with Archdeacon Sale that a good deal of money is wasted in the name of education and on means which do not provide the proper instruction or training at all. Archdeacon thinks entrance exams should be made stiffer in order that only those who have great intellect would be able to pass them and that fees should be made lower. The Rochdale Times, April 5th 1924

To the Beast of Applause

Rochdale Borough Police force members were greeted with spontaneous applause as they marched into the town hall square on Sunday morning for thier final parade before amalgamation with the Lancashire force. This positive reaction was proof enough of Rochdale's regard for its police officers. The Rochdale Observer, 2nd April 1969.

Fasters beat the Easter Cold and Hunger

28 young Rochdale people endured 36 hours of Easter on a starvation diet of glucose and coffee to draw attention to world hunger and poverty. Thier sacrifice was all part of Rochdale Young Oxfam group's second Easter fast- a day and a half. The Rochdale Observer, 1 April 1970.

Surprise Pakistani nominee in Council elections

Surprise Pakistani nominee in Council elections A Pakistani will attempt to win a seat on the Rochdale Town council next month. If he succeeds he will be the first ever member of his race to join the local authority. The Pakistani nominee is Mr Muhammad Yunas of 39 Russel Street. The Rochdale Observer, 29th April 1970

Cup Final Scenes

Biggest crowd ever at Rugby match, invasion of playing pitch." Remarkable scenes were witnessed in Rochdale on Saturday when the final for the Rugby league cup was played on the athletic grounds before a crowd number between 41,000 and 42,000. It was th largest crowd which has ever gathered at a footbal match under the auspices of the Northern Union, now Rugby league in this country. The Rochdale Times, April 16 1924

Would you Like to Live in Stedly?

Two dozen suggested names for the new 12 town Rochdale- Bury metropolitian area now known as District C - have so far been received by Rochdale town clerk, Mr K.B. Moore. Amongst the suggested names are Pilkington, Hackleton, Heywood or Broadfield, Town of Roch, Stedly, Roachbury, Dale, Two Rivers, Penine Vale, Greater Irwell, Irwell Valley, Vale of Irwell and Irwell. A report will be submitted to the districts joint commitee when all suggestions have been received. Rochdale Observer, 19th April 1972, p44.

More Cheers and Fans for Mini the Gentle Giant

Mini the elephant, who became a national favourite through TV appearances came to town on Saturday. Led by her trainer she truddled through the town centre and straight through the doors of the ABC cinemas. It was all planned, though. Rochdale Observer, 26th April 1972, p20.

Looking Back: Should infants of three or four years of age be excluded from school?

It is an old question which came up again at the meeting of the Education Commitee on Thursday. In olden days mothers used to see it as their duty to look after children until they reached school age. Alderman Davidson urged that to refuse to receive those mites in school would inflict hardship on poor homes where the mothers had to go out to work.

Boy of fifteen drove car for two hours

After spending a night in a car, a boy took note of the ignition number and then went to Blackpool to buy the key for the same number. He then returned to the car and stole it from Ellen Smith (Tours) Limited in Wardleworth, a cap belonging to a coach driver was also taken. The car was later found with a dint on the bumper and parafin in the petrol tank. The boy was sentenced to three years in an approved school. 23rd April 1958 Rochdale Observer, Page 5.

Motor Offence Fine

The fine for a man who jumped a red light, without realising, was £2 in 1958. 12th April 1958 Rochdale Observer, page 11

Maiden voyage for the 'Penine Queen'

Members of the Town Council and their families were aboard the £3,000 boat which was launched at Hollingworth Lake. It has been painted white and blue and has a mahogany interior. The boat was bought to serve alongside the popular Lady Alice. A thirty minute sail around the Lake in the newly launched boat will cost one shilling for adults and sixpence for children. 2nd April 1958 Rochdale Observer, Page 1

Working Mothers

Messers. Kelsall and Kemp and Their Women Operatives. By a generous scheme which has already been put into operation, Messers. Kelsall and Kemp are doing something to deal in a practical way with what has long been recognised as one of the greatest evils in our industrial system. They have decided to make a maternity allowence of 12 shillings a week to married women in their employment to be payable for a certain time before and after child birth for 22 weeks in all. The conditions are that the beneficary shall do no work other than housework during the period mentioned, and must have been in the employment of the firm for tweleve months before the child is born. 9th April 1910 Rochdale Times

Commercial

The employees of Martin's Mill (The Bagslate Spinning and Manufacturing Company) are today being entertained by the firm at a tea concert and dance in the Norden Liberal Club, in celebration of the fiftieth year of the Company's existence. 9th April 1910 Rochdale Times

Pepper Throwing

An inquest was held into the death of a six months old child , which occurred suddenly on Wednesday. The child's mother, Mrs Florence Clayton said her child was born healthy but her house was not very healthy and got little sun. On the evening of 17th March Mrs Clayton had words with her neighbour a Mrs Connolly and locked her door at about 10pm. Mrs Connolly kicked at the door which was then opened. Mrs Clayton had the child in her arms and as soon as the door was opened Mrs Connolly threw two handfuls of pepper at her, most of which went on the child's face and head. Shortly after, the child had a fit and her mother took the child to Dr Aveling's. Since that day the child suffered seventeen or eighteen fits. Dr Aveling said that when the child arrived it was suffering from badly inflamed eyesa and there had been no mention of the child having had a fit. In his opinion the cause of death had been due to bronchial pneumonia, and there was no connection between the death and the effects of the pepper. The coroner remarked it a very silly thing for Mrs Connolly to throw pepper about in this fashion. 9th April 1910 Rochdale Times

Shopkeeper's Complaint

From the minutes of the Cleaning Committee Mr Howarth complained of what he described as the slovenly way in which the streets were swept in the morning. Drivers would not use water and clouds of dust were raised which were a great annoyance to shopkeepers. He had mentioned the matter to the chairman of the committee, who told him he would take steps to remove the cause of complaint. 9th April 1910 Rochdale Times

Pop songs at coffee bar could mean death

Pop songs could well mean death for youngsters using the juke box at a Rochdale coffee bar. The machine is not earthed and if a short occurs, there could be a fatal shock for anyone touching the machine. Rochdale borough licensing magistates heard on Friday that the fault was discovered when Rochdale Fire Brigade's Assistant Divisional Officer visited the Shalimar Coffee Bar, 89, Oldham Road. The owner of the coffee bar was ordered to make the wiring safe and to sound proof the wall next to the juke box, then his licence would be renewed. Rochdale Observer 29th April 1970

Chicken in a basket

The following advert appeared in classified advertisements in the Rochdale Observer 4th April 1970 Egerton Arms Chapel House area winner of Daily Express pub of the North 1968 Tel Rochdale 42666 Famous For Chicken In The Basket Served every evening Free House - Large Car park

Jackie the Champ opens new Dunlop factory.

World Champion racing driver Jackie Stewart took on a new role in Rochdale this week. He pressed a button to start up a new £1 million plant at Dunlop textiles factory in Castleton. This marked the beginning of a new era in the development of the company's traditional business - tyre cord manufacture. The 30 year old champ received a great reception, Stewart has won eleven Grand Prix races on Dunlop tyres. The new plant is the most modern in Europe and puts the company in the forefront of it's competitors. After the opening ceremony Mr Stewart was taken on a conducted tour of the plant before flying back to his home in Switzerland. Rochdale Observer 11th April 1970

Vauxhall Ventura

Professional firm offers surplus Vauxhall Ventura, 1969 November, Monaco white/black, 6,500 miles, one owner, overdrive, new radiomobile. reversing lamps, Lucas fog and spot, Cost £1,300 Including 12 months' tax for £1,050 Tel 49815 During office hours Advert appeared in Rochdale Observer 1st April 1970

What's on at the cinema?

ODEON - All week - Dick Van Dyke, Lionel Jeffries and Sally Ann Howes in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (u) in Technicolor Weekdays 1.25, 4.35, 7.50 Advert in Rochdale Observer dated 1st April 1970

Tesco - Food prices

Advert appeared in Rochdale Observer dated 16th April 1986

250g Packet of butter - 46p
Penguin biscuits- six pack - 34p
Mars bars - 4 pack - 65p
Baguette - 29p

House prices

Taken from various adverts that appeared in the Rochdale Observer 12th April 1986;

Detached house- 4 bedrooms, L'Boro' £39,500
Detached house- 3 bedrooms, Rooley Moor Rd £30,950

Semi-detached house- 3 bedrooms, Buersil £29,950
Semi-detached house- 3 bedrooms, Kirkholt £14,250

Terraced- 2 bedrooms, L'Boro' £17,500
Terraced- 3 bedrooms, Hey St , Rochdale £11,500

Driver swallowed the evidence

A man ate his tax disc after being stopped by the police regarding motoring offences. He was charged with failing to provide a breath specimen, driving without a licence and using a car without a valid tax disc. After eating the tax disc the defendant said,'No tax disc, no evidence.'

Article taken from the Rochdale Observer dated 9th April 1986

Screen comedian in Rochdale

Stanley Lupino, the famous stage and screen comedian, paid a visit to Rochdale on Monday afternoon and attended the matinee performance at the Regal Cinema where the film 'Hold My Hand' in which he appears is being shown this week. There were not many people outside the cinema when he arrived, but the ovation he got when he appeared on stage after the completion of the film was an indication that his visit to Rochdale was much appreciated.

Taken from the Rochdale Observer dated 29th march 1939

Ashworth Valley

The following article appeared in the Rochdale Observer dated 25th March 1939 under the heading Public Notices.

ASHWORTH VALLEY

The management of the above wish to inform the public that the above grounds will be CLOSED
on GOOD FRIDAY, EASTER and until further notice.

H. LEACH
HURST FARM, ASHWORTH, ROCHDALE

Brotherod chimney felled

Brotherod chimney was felled at 8 o'clock last Saturday morning, Messrs Thomas Rawstron being the demolishers. There was something rather pathetic in watching this chimney being destroyed, especially to anyone who can see the actual beauty in the graceful lines of such structures. The method of felling adopted, was to undercut the brickwork on two sides and then with explosives to blow away a remaining pillar of brickwork. This was done and after the shot was fired the chimney seemed to pause as though not understanding it's doom; then slowly and gracefully it leaned over to it's last rest, falling exactly in the place expected. The chimney did not break up until it actually hit the ground.

Taken from the Rochdale Observer dated 22nd March 1939

Special train for the man left behind

A Rochdale businessman missed the early morning 5.44am train to Manchester on Monday morning. Baffled staff were puzzled as to how the man had managed to miss the train when he had been on the platform eight minutes before the train arrived. After appealing to the duty station inspector, stating that he had to catch a plane, a two coach diesel unit was commissioned to run the passenger non-stop to Victoria, where a taxi was waiting courtesy of British Railways, to take him to the airport bus station in St. Ann's Square.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 30th March 1963

The Pen Shop

Advert that appeared in the Rochdale Observer 13th April 1963

A GUD PENN WOANT HELP YER SPELING

But it may improve the appearance of your writing.

W.T.WHATMOUGH
'The Pen Shop'
20, Drake Street, Rochdale
*Stockists of all the best pens*

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Has-Bin - Has been ie, a thing of the past.

Rugby Union

A Prestige win over Huddersfield - Rochdale 16 Huddersfield 14

By defeating Huddersfield on Saturday, Rochdale enhanced their prestige in Yorkshire. Huddersfield are a senior side and the great feature of the game was the complete absence of rancour as Rochdale piled up a score which at one period reached sixteen points to six. There was not a single 'incident' in the match.

As reported in the Rochdale Observer 10th April 1957

Petrol ration books

Petrol Ration Books and Vehicle Licence Renewals

Next Monday (March 18th) the post office begins the second week of issuing the new basic ration books and motor licences. If your surname begins with E, F, G, H, I, J or K you are asked to apply next week. You are requested to apply in the early part of the week and try to avoid Saturdays.

Notice appeared in Rochdale Observer dated 16th March 1957

Shambles of Rochdale to Bacup Bus

Fight Among Teddy Boys Gang

A conductor had a finger brokenafter ordering two youths to leave a Rochdale to Bacup bus. A gang of Teddy Boys started a free for all fight after several youths persisted in ringing the bell. In the fight that followed the conductor was struck on the hand by a belt. Inspector A R Riley descibed the scene as a shambles. Two of the youths involved in the fracas were fined £5 each for disorderly behaviour and one of the said youths was sentenced to three months imprisonment for inflicting grevous bodily harm on the conductor.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 16th March 1957

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Chip (N.Lanc), v. to trip a person up.

Gender Specific jobs advertised

Adverts taken from the Rochdale Observer on 12th March 1966, page 21.

Gender and age specific jobs advertised with Conrah St. Margaret.

Male jobs as 'Knitter' with the age limit of 18 to 20.

Female jobs as operatives for Monday to Friday, 6pm to 10pm for under 35's.

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Egg v. to urge on, to incite.

A word with a long history, also used by Chaucer in 1386:

"January hath caughtso gret a wille.
Through eggyng of his wyf, him for pleye
In his gardeyn."

Electrification of Manchester to London Railway line

Electrification of railway line

An advert posted in the Rochdale Observer on 2nd March 1966.

Offers advertised for trips to London from Manchester on the newly electrified line. The journey takes 2 hours and 40 minutes and there were eleven trains per day in each direction. The journey now takes just under 2 hours 10 minutes and there are three trains per hour.

Plans for a Folk Museum

Rochdale Observer Article published 2nd March 1966

Plans were put forward for a Folk Museum to be housed at Balderstone Hall, however the discovery of dry rot at the Hall somewhat stalled these plans.

Lancashire dialect word of the day

Kibe v. To pout the lip in scorn, to gibe, to mock.

Name that spells tragedy

Article appeared in Rochdale Observer dated 12th March 1983

The name Mitchell Hey has spelled tragedy twice in one hundred years for a Rochdale family.
Mr George Ashworth, 44 a weaver at Mitchell Hey Mills, died 1n 1884 when a loom and part of a collapsing wall fell on him. His Granddaughter Mrs Dora Stocks aged 83, died of head injuries last December after a window fell on her from the seventeenth floor of Mitchell Hey, College Bank.

Governors vote to retain corporal punishment

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 5th March 1983

Parents and governors at 14 out of 21 Rochdale secondary schools have voted to retain corporal punishment.
Corporal punishment in Rochdale's nursery, primary and special schools was abolished by the Education committee in 1981. Councillor Williams (labour) who was opposed to corporal punishment commented, 'to allow caning to continue was a compromise with evil'.

Don't Kill Your Wife

Advert from Rochdale Observer dated 21st March 1925

DON'T KILL YOUR WIFE!

Let us do your dirty work
by doing your laundry work

SEND YOUR CARPETS
TO US TO BE
BEATEN OR CLEANED

THE MILNROW
UNIVERSAL LAUNDRY
PHONE 36 MILNROW

Home Made Toffee Offences

Taken from Rochdale Observer dated 25th March 1950

A Rochdale man appeared in court on Wednesday charged with manufacturing sugar confectionery without holding the requisite licence to do so, and that he had used certain ration documents taken from a neighbour's book to obtain some of the ingredients. The man in question Mr Ronald Dearden, had been manufacturing the confectionery in his dwelling house and selling it to retailers. He was found guilty and fined 30s on each of the two summonses and was given three months in which to pay.

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Punce v. To kick

Cook's World Travel Service

Advert appeared in Rochdale Observer 25th March 1950

This year - which?

SWITZERLAND (17 days holiday) £37.19.6

FRENCH RIVIERA (17 days holiday) £37.7.6

Whichever you choose make sure of having an enjoyable holiday by booking through

COOK'S WORLD TRAVEL SERVICE 55, Drake Street, Rochdale and Branches

Lost Property For Sale

Transport Department

Lost Property For Sale

The following lost property is offered for sale in lots;

1 Umberellas - 104

2 Gloves (kid) 260 pairs (woollen) 240 pairs (cotton) 70 pairs (washleather and suede) 50 pairs

3 Scarves 149

4 Caps and hats 120

5 Woollen goods 30

6 Coats (boys and girls) 24

7 Men's overalls 8

8 Shopping bags 42

9 Mackintoshes(in poor condition) 3

Contact the General Manager at the Mellor Street Depot with quotations for each lot.

Rochdale Observer 18th March 1950

Cat rescued from River Roch

Inspector Faulkner and P.C. Hill of the Rochdale Borough Police Force were in the vicinity of the Art Gallery when they were informed that a cat was marooned on an upturned perambulator in the River Roch close to the Manchester Road bridge. A wicker basket containing a piece of meat was lowered by rope towards the pram. The cat jumped into the basket and was hauled to safety and was then handed over to its owners. Minky the cat, is a pet belonging to Rochdale Art Gallery staff and it is believed that he fell from a window ledge whilst foraging for food.

Article taken fron Rochdale Observer dated 15th March 1950

Corporation notices

The Salvage of Waste Materials Order

Several persons have been fined for the unauthorised extraction of kitchen waste from the communal bins. It is intended to proceed against future offenders.

K.B.Moore Town Clerk

Notice taken from Rochdale Observer dated 10th March 1950

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Nowt - sb- nothing
adj- bad

Princess cinema

Princess cinema-Castleton

The high speed action of a Western combined with a mysterious murder, are the ingredients of Gene Autry's latest picture, 'Twilight on the Rio Grande', which heads the programme at the Princess cinema, Castleton, tonight. The film has a feasible plot, comedy and romance, and the tunes introduced are melodious and rythmical. The story deals with the successful efforts of Gene Autry in rounding up a gang of jewel smugglers and there is plenty of punch in the process.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 8th March 1950

Runaway refuse wagon

Corporation Wagon Smashes Through Front Window

A housewife living at 47 Manchester Road, Rochdale had an unpleasant shock on Thursday morning when a Rochdale Corporation refuse wagon crashed through the front window of her home. Whilst washing the breakfast pots, Mrs Ethel Stockton heard a bang and on running into the front room saw the front of a three and a half ton wagon poking into her living room. Luckily the driver, his mate and Mrs stockton were uninjured.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 4th march 1950

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Chatter-Basket  sb- an incessant talker; gen. appl. to a child

Competition

Competition in Rochdale Observer dated 3rd February 1965

Write a letter of not more than 100 words stating what you would buy yourself if somebody gave you 10s to spend. Would you buy; a book, chocolates, gloves, scarf or other items of clothing, cinema tickets, saving stamps or a record?

Fur sale

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 3rd February 1965

FUR SALE

CANADIAN SQUIRREL    20 GUINEAS

PERSIAN LAMB                75 GUINEAS

ANTELOPE COATS          25 GUINEAS

Murder hunt

Murder Hunt launched after boys find baby's body.

A full scale murder investigation was mounted in Rochdale after three school boys dicovered the body of a baby in the River Roch on Sunday afternoon.

Taken from Rochdale Observer dated 3rd Feb 1965

Advert

The following advert appeared in the Rochdale Times dated 17th Feb 1912

WORN OUT MEN with wrecked nerves should take Dr Cassell's Tablets for weak and nervous people.

1 Have you been burning the candle at both ends?
2 Are you suffering from nerve and physical breakdown?
3 Have you kidney and digestive troubles?
4 Do you lack organic energy?
Or are you suffering from any form of physical and nerve exhaustion? If so a course of Dr Cassell's Tablets for weak and nervous people will speedily and permanently cure you.

Death rate in Rochdale

The death rate in Rochdale last week, according to the returns of the registrar general, was 20.9 per 1,000 per annum, as compared with an average of 21.6 for the 94 great towns of England and Wales.

Taken from; Rochdale Times 17th Feb 1912

Last chance to see......

Highlighting both historic and contemporary artists' prints and drawings from the Art Gallery collection. Making Marks: Print and Drwaings from the Art Gallery collection closes on 13th March 2011.

Minstrel Troupe at the Workhouse

Report in Rochdale Times 14th Feb 1912

On Saturday evening the Whitworth Parish Church minstrel troupe gave a performance to the inmates of Dearnley Workhouse. A capital programme, consisting of songs, jokes, etc was given by the troupe. The inmates appeared much interested in the entertainment, judging by their hearty applause.

A Dog's sleep

Rochdale Times - March 2nd 1912

Adam Greenhalgh of Mason Street Bolton was summoned for sleeping while in charge of two horses and a lurry in Bury Old Road Heywood on the 14th February. PC Kay said he walked alongside the lurry for a distance of 100 yards and looked under the sheet twice to make sure the defendant was asleep. When he woke up he said 'I was only dog Sleeping.' A fine of 5s and costs were inflicted.

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Cruddle
               v. to bend; to sink down from weakness
Cruttle   

Create:Consult FREE art workshop for 14-19yrs

This Wednesday.............................Create:Consult FREE art workshop for 14-19yrs

Feb 23rd 1pm-4pm at Touchstones Rochdale.

Create:Consult is the Art Gallery’s creative forum for young people aged 14-19yrs. Work with Manchester based artist Lee Crocker exploring our current prints and drawings exhibition ‘Making Marks’. Develop your drawing techniques and try your hand at working with scrapper board to create your own piece of bold artwork. Any work created on the day will be available to take away after the session.
Booking is essential as there are limited places. Bring your friends not your parents!

For more information please contact Touchstones Rochdale on 01706 924492 or email: touchstones@link4life.org

Artists in Residence: Rachael Elwell

This Tuesday 22nd February 2011 11am - 4pm

Artist RachaeL Elwell will undertake a four-week residency as part of her exhibition Capacity of Line. Visit the Gallery to see Rachael at work and to contribute to her drawing research through participatory projects.

Selling celery

Rochdale Times 10th Feb 1912

Selling celery

The New Market Co summoned a youth named Frank Gartside of 13 New Barn St, for having exposed celery for sale without a permit. PC Senior spoke to the defendant who was going from door to door in Charlotte Street. Garside ran away when approached, claiming he did not know it was neccessary to have a permit. A fine of 1s and costs were imposed.

Skater's escape

Article appeared in Rochdale Times dated 7th February 1912

Immersed in the Lake at Hollingworth

Frosts sudden end

The spell of keen frost which brought joy to the heart of the skater and discomfort to most other people, came to a very sudden end on Monday evening. Skaters enjoyed themselves to their hearts' content over the weekend. Vendors of skates did a roaring trade, those in Rochdale being practically sold out by Monday evening. Hollingworth was the Mecca of hundreds of skaters but consternation was caused on Sunday evening when a young man fell through the ice. Whilst skating at the end of the lake in front of the Fisherman's Inn, the son of a local butcher, Mr Stansfield of Smithybridge, he plumped through a small hole in the ice, he managed to pull himself up by using his arms and was rescued by some fellow skaters. Afterwards the hole was boarded round to prevent a repitition of the accident.

Shipping

Advert appeared in Rochdale Times dated 12th Feb 1912

OCEAN PASSAGES
AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
MEN AND DOMESTIC SERVANTS WANTED

For official particulars of fares, at ordinary and reduced rates,
Apply to the London Passenger Agency of
E A SMITH 13 Victoria St, London S.W

Dyeworks fire at Heywood

Rochdale Observer 12th Feb 1955

The top floor of the Roeacre Dyeing and Felting Company's premises burst into flames on Thursday afternoon. Flames were leaping out of the windows, fortunately none of the employees were injured. Five fire engines were engaged in fighting the fire including engines from Bury and Rochdale whilst traffic was diverted away from the main road.

Blackshirt Meeting

The following advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer 5th February 1938

Blackshirt Meeting

The British Union of Fascists and National Socialsits
Will hold a meeting on Town Hall Square
On Friday next, February 11th
At 8pm
Speaker; Miss Doreen Bell
Further particulars from R.M.Lomax, 1 South Street

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

cadge; v. to beg; to skulk about a neighbourhood

Who Killed Cock Robin?

Article from Rochdale Observer 8th February 1961

Two boys aged 14 and 13 appeared before the justices at Rochdale Borough Juvenile Court last week accused of killing a robin on Springbank Lane, Bamford. The bird, 'quite a pet in the Bamford district' was found dead by a Bamford lady, who said she had seen three boys shoot it with an air rifle. Two of the boys admitted killing the robin and were fined £2.00 each.

Summit tunnel drama

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 9th Feb 1938

Injured Workman in Path of Oncoming Train

Prompt action by workmates prevented a tragedy in the gloom and smoke of the Summit Tunnel yesterday morning, when an injured man fell across the lines into the path of an oncoming train. Mr Harry Marshall (41) was working on a scaffold when he fell to the floor, injuries to his ribs rendered him helpless. He was pulled to safety by his colleagues when the train was about three hundred yards away. He was transferred to Rochdale Infirmary by motor ambulance.

Air Raid Precautions

County Borough of Rochdale

Air Raid Precautions

An Appeal to the public by the Mayor

The Air Raid Precautions Committee for the County Borough of Rochdale ask me to make this appeal to citizens to enrol for voluntary service in the local scheme for safety measures in the event of Enemy Air Raids. The main volunteers needed are these: Special constabulary, Auxillary firemen, Air Raid wardens and Ambulance Drivers. The training of volunteers will be made as interesting as possible, and times and places will be so fixed as to cause the least possible inconvenience to them.

Freedom of the Borough scroll presented to Mr J C Jefferson's widow

Article from Rochdale Observer 5th Feb 1955

The presentation of the Freedom of the Borough scroll to the widow of the late Mr J C Jefferson took place on Thursday afternoon in the Mayor's parlour at the Town Hall. A small gathering of family and friends attended to witness the occasion. Mr Jefferson, an eminent surgeon, endeared himself to a lot of people, for not only had they admired and been grateful for his skill, but they had learned to love him. It was with deep regret that it had not been possible to make the presentation before Mr Jefferson's death.

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Gobbin - An ignorant, clownish person

Physical fitness - Fine display at the Town Hall

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 2nd February 1938

The Town Hall was crowded with people for a display of national dances, folk dances, skipping and other physical exercise by pupils of Rochdale keep fit classes. Councillor Crowder said the idea of the demonstration was to follow up what had been happening all over the country since the Prime Minister had launched the National Health campaign. Unfortunately in Rochdale men had so far not responded like women to the appeal to join keep fit classes.

Rag gatherer hurt

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 5th Feb 1955

A rag gatherer, Mr Harvey Bennett of 27 Alma St Rochdale, bruised his legs when his cart overturned in Oldham Road on Weds afternoon. Mr Bennett was driving his pony cart into Lee St, when a wheel caught the kerb and turned the cart over. The pony was unhurt.

Situations vacant

Advert in Rochdale Observer 2nd February 1955

Situations vacant - For mill and workshop

Two young women wanted for punching and riveting buckle straps (leather) - Apply to O & W Ormerod Ltd, Niall Street, Rochdale.

Lancashire dialect word of the day.....

Parish - V - to starve with cold or hunger
Perish

What's on at the Odeon 30th Jan 1965

Odeon - Rochdale
Showing 'The Third Secret' starring Stephen Boyd and
'Carmen Jones' starring Harry Belafonte and Dorothy Dandridge
A special footnote read;
'As a mark of respect to the late Sir Winston Churchill this theatre will not open today (Sat) until 2.15pm'

Angry bullock

Reported in the Rochdale Observer 29th Jan 1975

Pedestrians using Wardle Road ran for safety on Monday when a bullock stampeded through the streets of Wardle. It had escaped from a cattle truck whilst being unloaded at Wardle Fold. It was shot dead by an abbatoir employee.

Houses for sale

Advert in Rochdale Observer 1st February 1975

3 bed, Georgian style, semi-detached dormers with garage from £7,495
Hurstead Farm, Wardle

Lancashire dialect word of the day....

Give-O'Er - V- to cease doing a thing; to discontinue

4 Star petrol only 69p

A half page advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer for Sat 25th Jan 1975

'Tank up at your local sky station (Look for the BP sign) Queensway Rochdale

BP 4 STAR PETROL ONLY 69p'

Burns Night Extravaganza

The following advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer 25th Jan 1975

A Burns Night Extravaganza is to take place at the Town Hall Tonight 7.30-11.45pm
Special guest LES DAWSON, Cabaret, Dancing, Buffet.
Tickets £1.50

Food Prices

Todays Food Prices 25th January 1975- Rochdale Observer

Lettuce 18p tomatoes 38p cress 5p-10p
Bananas 14p
Onions 9p new pots 12p-15p
Rump steak 90p lb
New Zealand Lamb legs 52p loin chops 60p

Yelloway advert

The following advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer dated 16th January 1965


Yelloway and Creams
Special Excursions
Mon next Jan 23rd

1.30pm   Manchester Utd v Stoke (Old Trafford) 3/3

6.00pm   Belle Vue (returning 11pm) 3/9

Black Monday

Rochdale just about coped with the one day strike of council and hospital workers, ambulance men and busmen on Black Monday. Over 4,000 town hall porters, school caretakers, hospital ancillary workers, dustmen and other council manual workers joined the strike. All were protesting about low pay of manual workers in the public sector.

Taken from Rochdale Observer 22nd Jan 1979

Lancashire dialect word of the day

Fause or   - adj -  wise, cunning, sly
Fawse   

Sleighbells for white wedding reception

Wedding cake and sparkling wine were strapped to a child's sledge and pulled for half a mile through snow drifts up to fifteen feet deep on Saturday. The licensee of the Lydgate Inn, Blackstone Edge Old Road, Mr Graham Kershaw, his wife Mary and cellarman Barry, made the journey for Miss Anne Howard and her husband to be Mr Michael Day, after the weather forced the transfer of their wedding reception to the Cemetery Hotel, Bury Road. The bride's mother Mrs nancy Hoyle said 'We shall never forget that wedding.'

Rochdale Observer 24th Jan 1979

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Root- v- to search for anything by feeling with the fingers, or with a stick.

New Vicar for St.Mary's Balderstone

The Rev'd David Allen Tipper has been appointed Vicar of St Mary's Balderstone, he succeeds the Rev'd N J Coleman who recently resigned.

Rochdale Observer 16th Jan 1965

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Feaw - adj- ugly, unhandsome

Red light offence

Nurse Bridget Crehan of the nurses home Sparrow Hill pleaded guilty by letter at the Rochdale borough magistrates court on Wednesday to crossing the 'panda' crossing on manchester Road while the light was showing red. Nurse Crehan was fined £2.

Rochdale Observer 16 Jan 1965

Maintenance Unit rumour is denied

Mr Joel Barnett MP for Heywood and Royton has been pressing the Minister of Defence for information regarding a rumour that No 35 R.A.F. maintenance unit at Heywood was to be closed. He has now received an assurance from the minister Lord Shackleton that no decision to close this unit has yet been made.......

Article from Rochdale Observer 16th Jan 1965

Rochdale pick a player-manager

Doug Collins, Burnley midfield star and a protege of Tommy Docherty was appointed Rochdale player-manager. It was reported that 'his style and reputation, known particularly well to thousands of soccer followers in the Rochdale area, are so much needed.'

Taken from Rochdale Observer 13th January 1979

An Extra show for Andrew

Five year old Andrew Curzon saw the show twice at Belle Vue circus on Saturday. Andrew was one of the children on the Cronkeyshaw social club trip to Belle Vue. After seeing the first performance the children returned home, but when Dad went to meet Andrew off the coach, he was missing. His Grandad dashed to Belle Vue and found Andrew watching the second house with a bag of sweets, a balloon and grumbling he'd seen it all before.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer dated 13th Jan 1965

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Gawmless - adj- dull or slow of comprehension; vacant minded; foolish, silly, senseless; insensible; idiotic

Day's Gallery of curiosities

Day's Gallery of curiosities is now exhibiting on the fairground. Amongst the curiosities of this establishment is the extraordinary youth Paul McAldon, the Hibernian Giant Boy, the heaviest man in the world; a troop of performing monkeys; a highly trained performing pony; and a beautiful case of mechanical humming birds - Admission - one penny.

Advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer dated Sat Jan 11th 1862

Appointment of Local studies Librarian

Mr John S Cole has been appointed as the Local Studies librarian at Area Central library, The Esplanade, Rochdale. Mr Cole a chartered librarian has been assistant readers' advisor with Gwent County Library service. 

Taken from an article in Rochdale Observer 3rd January 1979

Funeral of Mr James Dearden

Article taken from Rochdale Observer, dated 9th January 1862.

The funeral of the Lord of the Manor of Rochdale took place today. Mr James dearden Esq, died on 2nd January in Eaton Square, London, his remains were conveyed to his reidence The Orchard where a large number of people lined the streets to pay their respects. Mr Dearden's remains were interred in the churchyard of St Paul's, Norden.

Did you know.....

Did you know.....The Rochdale Good Samaritan Society was established in 1832. The number of cases during the year 1916 amounted to 77 and the visits providing relief amounted to 1289.

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Fettle- sb - condition

           v - to mend, improve, set right, dress

Good news for bad times

An article appeared in the Local News section of the Rochdale Times dated 5th January 1884 bearing the headline, 'Good news for Bad times'. It stated, 'A complete set of teeth on vulcanite, 40s, warranted for twelve months. Satisfaction and fit guaranteed. None but the best materials used.' These teeth could be purchased from Messrs Stansfield, Surgeon Dentists, 269, Oldham Rd, Rochdale.

Unlawfully keeping a billiard table

An article appeared in The Rochdale Times dated 5th January 1884 stating that Eli Shepherd and Edward Walton had been summoned to appear at Rochdale Petty Sessions charged with unlawfully keeping a billiard table. The table, in a room above The Bridge Inn at Norden had been used without Shepherd and Walton obtaining a license, the judge ordered the pair to pay the court costs.

Hill's Annual January Sale

A full page advert appeared in The Rochdale Observer for Hill's annual January sale. It stated that in the clothing department 'The first man customer may have any suit in the place for £1' 'Come and pick the best'.
'The first youth can have a suit for 15/- and the first boy up to 14 years a suit for 7/6. The first lady may have a 21/- raincoat for 10/- (All Best Quality)'

Advert appeared in the Rochdale Observer 4th January 1922

Fireman's funeral

Fireman James Ernest Hoolahan's funeral took place at Newbold Baptist Church today. His coffin was carried on a Lancashire County fire brigade turntable ladder engine. It was draped with the Union Jack and his helmet and axe were positioned on top along with a floral cross. One hundred and twenty officers and men fron nine fire brigades formed a guard of honour and saluted their colleague who had collapsed and died whilst fighting a fire at Middleton.

Article taken from Rochdale Observer 4th January 1961

Lancashire Dialect word of the day

Gradeley- adverb- properly, completely, truly, handsomely.
                adjective- decent, becoming, proper, good, right

Girl rescued on Scafell

A Rochdale student Miss Diana Wood had a miraculous escape in a climbing tragedy on snow-capped Scafell Pike on New Years Day. Miss Wood and her companion, fellow student Mr Peter Bolton were found in Piers Gill a ravine 2,700ft above sea level and were unable to move. Mr John Carr found the couple and alerted rescuers who were able to rescue Miss Wood but unfortunately it was too late for Mr Bolton who died of exposure.

Article reported in The Rochdale Observer 4th January 1961