Fluffy Fabric !

During 1886 Flannelette was introduced.
Greatly appreciated in days without elecric blankets or central heating.

Celebrated Work

' History of the Parish of Rochdale ' by Henry Fishwick was published today in 1889.
This can be consulted online as an eBook.
For those closer to home, you can consult this renowned book by calling in to Local Studies at Touchstones Rochdale.

Be Prepared

Eighteen sick and burial societies with 60,000 members and £135,000 in funds existed in Rochdale at this time.
29th December 1896.

Very Generous Gift

It was announced today that an anonymous donation of £5,000 was given to the Building Fund of St. Johns Catholic Church.
The gift was from Mr. James White.
1918.

Pea Souper !

Rev. F.W. Norburn, today in 1925, drove his motorcycle and sidecar into the canal at Littleborough during fog.

Bah ! Humbug !

Today in 1868 at St. Mary's Church, Wardleworth the Christmas decorations were torn down by some person unknown.
The candlesticks on the altar were carried away and several vestments destroyed.

Food Bank ?

The last week of December 1862 saw 18,000 persons relieved by the Soup Kitchen and in addition the Guardians relieved another 13,226.

Poor Denis !

Ronald Roberts in his book, 'Pea Soup on Friday', which are his personal notes on Birch Hill Hospital, mentions this when talking about Christmas 1929 :
On my second Christmas Day the main joints were from Denis, the farm bull, his replacement having arrived a short time earlier.

Generous Donation

Today in 1917 Mr.and Mrs. F. Lye gave £100 to each of ten charitable institutions as a memorial to their son, Second Lieutenant Gilbert Lye and their daughter Mary.

Party Time !

Yesterday, Rochdale Pioneers Society had a huge celebration.
This was to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its foundation.

21st of December 1925.

For more information please click on the link below :
http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history-online/co-operation

New Mill

The Union Ring Mill Company was formed today in 1900.

Lights Camera Action !

The Pavilion Picture Palace opened on the 18th of December 1912.
It was the first hall in Rochdale to be built expressly as a picture hall.

Time To Celebrate

Newhey St. Thomas' Parish Church celebrated it's jubilee today in 1926.

Goodbye to an important local company

Today in 1920 it was reported that the local firm of R.T. Heape and Son was giving up business.

Swan's Dilemma !

The Rochdale Observer reported that on December 15th 1920 two swans were frozen to a mill pond at Belfield.

Votes For Women !

Today in 1927 Mrs. Pankhurst addressed a Conservative meeting at the Territorial Drill Hall.

Let The Music Play !

Today in 1867 Rochdale Philharmonic Society was formed, it was reorganised in 1889.

Rochdale Roundabout

It was realised today in 1867 that Rochdale was the only town to have a circular boundary.

A Small Yellow Bear With Black Ears !

Today in 1956 Sooty visited Rochdale.
He was devised and operated by Harry Corbett who bought Sooty from a stall in Blackpool.
Sooty featured on British T.V. from 1952 and following Harry Corbett's retirement, Matthew, his son operated Sooty and they enjoyed a new wave of popularity.
Sooty fluctuated between kindness, cheekiness and downright naughtiness, with every episode ending with, 'Bye-bye, everybody. Bye-bye '.

Happy Memories !

Please Be Seated !

Brigadier-General Bernard Booth, of the Salvation Army, lectured today in Rochdale in 1925.

But was it flood proof ?

During November 1867 the river wall fronting the Town Hall was erected.

Rochdale has a magnificent Town Hall, to learn more about it please click on this link below :

http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history-online/rochdale/rochdale-town-hall

Shelter

Today in 1913 Mrs Knox, wife of the Bishop of Manchester, opened the Rochdale home of the Waifs and Strays Society in Castlemere Street.

Unemployment

In 1906 on this day the Rochdale Guardians petitioned Parliament in order to call special sessions to deal with the unemployment question.


To learn more on how Rochdale was governed please click on this link below :
http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history-online/rochdale

Give Us A Song !

On the 21st of November 1917 Turners' Choral Society made it's first public appearance at the Provident Hall.
The choir was made up of employees of Turner Bros. Asbestos and Samuel Turner and Co. Ltd. Spotland.

Listen to the Marquess !

Lord Londonderry addressed a political meeting in Rochdale today in 1901.
This man's name was : Charles Stewart Henry-Vane-Tempest-Stewart the 7th Marquess of Londonderry KG, MVO, PC, PC( Ire ).

Edenfield Road

It was today in 1882 that Edenfield Road was disturnpiked, effecting a saving of £400 per annum in tolls to Norden residents.

Walk This Way !

Marcella the Manx Walking King appeared in Rochdale today in 1904.

Quiet Please !!!

On the 17th of November 1904 the council adopted a new standing order ' to stop excessive talking '.

Today in 1901 General William Booth from the Salvation Army visited Rochdale.

The Birthplace Of The Co-operative Movement

In anticipation of the relaunch tomorrow of the Rochdale Pioneers Museum, here is a little information on the birthplace of the Co-operative Movement in Rochdale.
It was on December 21st 1844 that this small shop at 31 Toad Lane opened for business.
Selling essentials such as flour, sugar, butter and oatmeal in a fair and honest way.
The shop was different in that its customers became members, to show their commitment ,and profits were invested back into the shop.
Members got a share of the profits based on what they'd spent and this became known as 'the divi '.

The refurbishment of the museum is the centrepiece of a £2.3 million project, which includes conservation work and an outreach programme to make the museum and archive collections accessible to new audiences.

To learn more, please click on this link below :
http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history-online/co-operation

How Big Was The Dish ?

Monstre Jubilee Pie was provided today in Littleborough for the 'old folks'.
It contained : 235lbs of beef, 20lbs of mutton, 16lbs of tongue, a  quantity of veal, 4 rabbits, 12 ox-tails, 3 large geese, a couple of ducks, 9 chickens, half a dozen cow's hearts and other ingredients.
Served up with this pie was 1 load of potatoes, 3cwt of carrots and turnips and 40 cabbages.
This was in October 1887.

Making a Stand !

It was during October 1838 that the Anti-Corn Law Association was formed with John Bright being elected a member of the Provisional Committee.

To learn more please click on the link below :

http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history-online/focused-on-people/john-bright

1855

October 1855 saw 81,432 bales of cotton brought to Rochdale from Liverpool.
The Rochdale Banner, which was a weekly newspaper, began publication at this time and the Corn Mill on Weir Street was erected.

Mass Exodus !

3,000 Liberals left Rochdale today in 1879 to attend a reform demonstration in Manchester, which was addressed by Lord Hartington and John Bright,

Castleton Station

It was during October 1875 that 'Bluepits' Railway Station was re-named 'Castleton'.

New Post

It was today in 1919 that Mr. E.N. Molesworth was appointed Coroner.

Important Man

On October 17th 1861 Mr.Sharman Crawford M.P. died.
He was the Member of Parliament for the Borough from 1842 to 1852.

Central Location, Nice Aspect !

The Wellington Hotel was sold today in 1922 for around £15,000.

There she goes !

High winds affected Rochdale yesterday and today in1854 resulting in the newly erected chimney at Grove Mills being blown down.
The structure was 90ft. high.

Important Guests

Today in 1872 a group of Japenese High Commissioners visited the town and were conducted over the principal industrial concerns and public buildings.

Piano Recital

The celebrated pianist Mr. Alfred Cortot gave a recital in the Town Hall today in 1922.
He had a couple of years before founded the 'Ecole Normale de Musique de Paris' with his coures in musical interpretation being legendary.

100 years

On October the 11th 1873 the Baptist Church in Rochdale observed it's centenary.

Dry Times !

It was recorded on the 10th of October 1884 that Hollingworth Lake had reached it's lowest level since 1868.

A Silver Performance !

Alderman Sir Samuel Turner J.P. resigned from the Town Council during October 1922.
He had served Rochdale for 25 years.

Believe In The Sign !

It was during October 1902 that the Rochdale Swimming Club was given permission to use the Rochdale Coat of Arms.

Did He Bring Calamity Jane ?

Today in 1904 Colonel W.F.Cody ( Buffalo Bill ) was in Rochdale.

Special Duties

The Yeomanry Cavalry Troop paraded in The Butts today in 1851 and then marched to Worsley.
They along with their Regiment on the 9th of October formed a Guard Of Honour to the Queen.

Chapel for the Poor

On the 4th of October 1858 'The Chapel for the Destitute' was opened by John Ashworth.
John Ashworth was the author of Strange Tales.'
The building chosen was originally erected for the Young Men's Christian Association and it was here that John Ashworth held sevices for many years.

Rochdale's Famous Dialect Writer

On this very day in 1855 'Come Whoam To Thi Childer An' Me' by Edwin Waugh was published.

Click on this link to see Edwin Waugh and learn more about him :
http://artsandheritage.link4life.org/index.php/discover/local-history/literary-tradition/edwin-waugh

V.I.P.

Today in 1866 Mr.Samuel Ashworth, one of the '28' was presented with an address and timepiece on being appointed manager of the North Of England Co-operative Wholesale Society.

Click on this link to discover more on Co-operation :
http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=323

Out With The Old !

The new offices of the Rochdale Operative Spinners' Association on the corner of Nelson Street and Church Lane were opened today in 1906.

Send in the Clowns !

Messrs. Barnum and Bailey's Great Show was on tour in 1898 and visited Rochdale on the 30th of September.

Huge Structure

The latest and largest gasometer in Dane Street was completed today in1894.
It has a capacity of 2,403,293 cubic feet and is 136 ft. high and 150 ft. in diameter.
Other gas facts include :
In May 1824 the Gas Works commenced supplying gas.
Number 2 gas-holder was named 'Prince Albert'.
The Gas Showrooms on Drake Street was opened in December 1913.
In March 1929 Minrow Gas Works closed down, the supply being taken from Rochdale.

Fine New Store !

In 1867 on this day the Pioneers Central Store opened in Toad Lane. It was officially opened by Alderman John Robinson and cost £13,400.

Jewel in the Crown

Rochdale's new Town Hall was opened today in 1871.
George Leach Ashworth performed the official opening, heading the long procession of civic officers, trade societies, Sunday School Scholars and many others.
They were accompanied by bands of music as they paraded through the streets.
At a banquet in the evening Bishop Fraser and the following M.P's were present : Messrs. Hibert, Egerton, Potter, Jacob Bright, T.Whitworth and J.Platt.

Pub in the wrong place !

On this day in 1884, £6,380 compensation was given to the owners of The Golden Fleece Inn due to the widening of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Line.

Evil Spirits Be Gone !

On the 25th September 1876 a 'charm' against evil spirits was discovered in a box concealed in the rafters of a shippon at Healey.

Space for All !

It was during September 1876 that Cronkeyshaw Common was conveyed to the Corporation.
The Common comprises 51 acres.

End Of An Era

Today in 1876 Hartley's Library dispersed.
It comprised about 8,000 volumes and was one of the oldest subscription libraries in the country.
The library was formed in 1770.

Important Visitor

The Duke of Newcastle paid a private visit to Greenbooth Mills, Buckley Mills, Railway Works and other places, today in 1874.

A Change of Landlord

' Owd Betts ', Ashworth Moor along with adjacent land was sold for £1,000.
This was on the 21st of September 1922.

Finished !

It was in September 1929 that the re-construction of Blackstone Edge Reservoirs was completed.
The scheme in total cost £400,000.

Rain Please !

During September 1911 the water supply was cut off at night due to a water shortage.

Give Us A Job !

Mr. W. T. Kelly M.P., today in 1928 opened the new Labour Exchange in Station Road.

Ladies Only !

Rochdale Ladies Swimming Club held their first gala today in 1898.
This was conducted entirely by females, with the swimmers, officials and audience all being ladies.
The Mayoress, Mrs Miles Ashworth presided.

Trip Out !

Today in 1858 the first local excursion to the Crystal Palace took place.
The fare for four days, going first class was 23s., third class being 12s.

Rochdale Town Council

The Charter of Incorporation was received between the 9th and 12th of September 1856.
The Burgess Association was formed to watch the proceedings of the newly formed Town Council.

Rochdale Heritage Town Trails

Today, Saturday and Sunday, Blue Badge Guides are hosting Rochdale Heritage Town Trails.
The walks will start and end at Touchstones Rochdale, lasting around an hour.
In 2011 Rochdale became 'World Capital of Co-operatives' and in 2012 it is the United Nations' International Year of Co-operatives.
The guides will give insights into how the town became famous as the birthplace of the Co-operative Movement.

To book a place please ring 01706 924928 or call in to the Tourist Information Centre at Touchstones Rochdale.

Newhey Parish Church

St. Thomas' Newhey is another one of our churches that is certainly worth a visit.
It sits on a hill overlooking the Pennine village of Newhey. It is a replica of Holy Trinity Church in Weston-Super-Mare and has an outstanding pulpit and font carving.
The church has a newly restored and rebuilt organ which was originally in St. Peter's, Loughborough, it is hoped that recitals will be given over the coming weekend.
It is open on the following days:
Thursday 2pm-4pm
Friday 10am-12 noon
Saturday 10am-4pm
Sunday 11am-4pm

St. Mary in the Baum Church

St. Mary's, Wardleworth has a rare example of the work of Sir Ninian Comper.
The present church was consecrated on February 2nd 1911 but from 1741 to 1744 it was a chapel of ease.
It has an unusual arrangement with the main aisle, chair and sanctuary on the south side with the Jesus Chapel on the north side.
Pillars and roundel windows are from the original church of 1742 and it has an excellent carved oak sceen.

The church is open this weekend from 10am until 4pm on Saturday and 11am until 3pm on Sunday.

The Regal Moon

Rochdale's Regal Moon pub was once the Regal Cinema which played an enormous role in the social life of the town.
The cinema opened in May 1938 showing the film ' Stella Dallas ' which starred Barbara Stanwyck.
It later became known as the A.B.C. and then the Cannon.
In 1993 the cinema was turned into a bingo hall and later became this popular public house.

To book a tour ring 01706 924928 or call in at the Tourist Information Centre at Touchstones Rochdale.

Worth Climbing The 122 Steps !

The Parish Church of Saint Chad is Rochdale's oldest building with stonework dating back to the 14th century.
There are some splendid stained glass windows including William Morris' faith, hope and charity window, designed by Edward Burns-Jones.
The font is 13th century and is where Gracie Fields was baptised in 1898.
The stocks can be seen in the churchyard along with the grave of John Collier, Rochdale's earliest dialect writer, who wrote under the name of Tim Bobbin.

The Parish Church is open on Thursday and Friday 2pm until 4pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am until 4pm.

Look Back At Rochdale Fire Brigade

The Fire Service Museum on Maclure Road, Rochdale is open next Friday and Sunday from 10am until 4pm.
This museum has fire appliances, equipment, uniforms, medals and models including a Victorian Fire Station.

Bamford Chapel United Reformed Church

Bamford Chapel can be visited next weekend from 1pm until 4pm on both days.
It was opened in 1801 and is a grade II listed building.
There have been many changes and additions to the church over the years but it still retains many original features.

Heritage Open Days 2012

In anticipation of the Heritage Open Days which begin in Rochdale on the 6th September, the next few posts will give information on some of the buildings you can visit.
We will begin with All Saints Church, Hamer.
It is a grade II listed Victorian Church with a steeple. Designed by the renowned architect J. Medland Taylor, built of stone and constructed in 1866.
The elaborate stained glass windows are particularly interesting especially the east and west windows.
The church organ is original, built by Hill and Son.
This building can be viewed from Thursday 6th September to Saturday the 8th from 10 am until 4 pm and Sunday 1 pm until 4 pm..

Money Well Spent !

The 29th of August 1896 saw the Sewage Scheme at Roach Mills extended, the total cost of the works up to this date has been £72,000.

Quite a Special Book

Today in 1868 the American Government presented to Rochdale Town Council a beautifully bound volume containing a compilation of the addresses to Mrs. Abraham Lincoln on the President's death.

Get Ready To Read !

The 26th of August 1870 saw 100 volumes of books presented to the proposed Public Library by
 Messrs. Macmillan & Co.

Brave Men Marching !

Today in 1856 twenty 'Waterloo ' heroes accompanied by a fife and drum band, left Rochdale to witness the unveiling of the Wellington statue in Manchester.

Go to our section on 'Wartime' and you can see a particularly early photograph of these men taken the previous year.

Read All About It !

Folowing on from a recent post about Middleton's artist, Mr. Jackson, Rochdale also has many artistic figures. Most of these, however, are famous for their use of the pen rather than the paint brush.
Many wrote in Lancashire Dialect, this tradition could said to have begun with John Collier writing as Tim Bobbin in the 1700's.
Edwin Waugh, Oliver Ormerod, Margaret Lahee and John Trafford Clegg are all commemorated on the Dialect Writers Memorial in Broadfield Park.
This literary tradition continues today with local writers who include Mark Hodkinson, Trevor Hoyle and Nicholas Blincoe.

Going, Going, Gone !!!

This post is about today, 23rd August 2012.
'Rochdale Baths' is on its way down.
The demolition of 'Rochdale Central Leisure Centre' is in progress.
The building opened in 1937 as the 'Central Baths', replacing the original Baths which opened on Smith Street in 1868.

Exceptional Artist

The artist Frederick W. Jackson is certainly worth a mention here.
Born in Middleton in 1859, one of three brothers, whose father was a photographer and art dealer.
After leaving school Frederick attended evening classes at Oldham School Of Art.
In 1880 Jackson's first painting was accepted by the Royal Academy, he then visited Italy to paint and in 1844 he also travelled to Paris.
After many successes he enrolled as a student at the Academie Julian.
He died at his home on Long Street in 1918 and following his death a large memorial exhibition was held at Manchester City Art Gallery.

Cricket Moves Forward

Continuing with our theme of local notables, let us look at Hamlet Nicholson :

Hamlet Nicholson was the inventor of the modern cricket ball, which he invented in or just before 1860.
An advertisement in the Rochdale Observer for the 18th May 1861 states:
Nicholson's Patent Compound Cricket Ball - the patentee claims :
. It is cheaper than leather
. It is more durable
. It is a true sphere
. It cannot absorb moisture and therefore never varies in weight

It was his early life working with his father ,who was a cobbler, that Hamlet became skilled in the use of Gutta Percha Rubber and this enabled him to move the cricket ball forward.

Herbal Pioneer !

Nell Racker, whose real name was Ellen Wallace could possibly be thought of as a pioneer in her skilled use and knowledge of herbs.
She was also a midwife, skilled bone-setter, fortune teller and spiritualist.
Nell was rumoured to be a witch, as in the past many wise women were said to be witches, simply because they understood the use of herbs and were able to treat people for illnesses and injuries.
She was born at Pigslee, Bury in 1846 and moved to Milnrow the following year.
After marrying her second husband in 1872 she moved to Belfield Cottage where she would dispense her knowledge for free, set a broken arm or arrange to attend a birth.
Her nickname, Nell Racker, which she is said to have hated, may have alluded to her racks of drying herbs or perhaps it was the practice of ' racking ' or stretching a broken limb.
She is listed in Clegg's Commercial Directory of Rochdale under Belfield Road as :
Wallace, Mrs. Ellen, Belfield Cottage. Midwife and Medical Botanist.

Famous Photographer

An earlier post gave some information about John Milne, the pioneering seismologist.
Today here is a little information on a pioneering photographer, Roger Fenton.

Roger Fenton was born at Crimble Hall in March 1819.
After taking a Master of Arts Degree he went to Paris to continue his studies as a pupil of the celebrated
Paul Delaroche. It was during this period that he became interested in the new art form - photography.
In 1847 he formed with a group of other enthusiasts, The Photographic Club.
In 1855 under the patrionage of Queen Victoria he embarked for the Crimea 'to take pictures of people and scenes of historic value.'
His photographs, however, showed little of the carnage of war, possibly so as not to offend the Victorian public.
His letters home from the Crimea reveal a war that is much different to the one pictured in his photographs.
The Photographic Society in recognition of his work in its foundation, awarded him the Prince Consort Medal in 1866.
Roger Fenton died in 1869 aged 50.

A Busy Time

August 1846 seems to have had quite a lot going on !
Ernest Jones and Feargus O'Connor addressed 10,000 Chartists on Blackstone Edge.
Moore Street School was built.
Dr. Molesworth placed in St. Chad's Church, the font, which is still used.
The Barracks off Toad Lane were given up.
The Grammar School in School Lane was pulled down.
The town became a municipal borough.
Wood turning by machinery was introduced by Thomas Robinson and Sons.
The Bridge Inn Sick and Burial Society was formed.
The Annual Assembly of Methodism was held in our town.

Roll Up, Roll Up !!!

The Cattle Fair Ground, Theatre Street opened today in 1877.
 Prior to this date the fair was held in Church Stile and in the adjoining streets.

Earthquake Milne

Professor John Milne on this day in 1897 gave a lecture before the British Association of Toronto on earthquakes.

Click on this link below to find out more about this extraordinary man.
http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=939

Something to Celebrate !

The Co-operative Corn Mill Society today in 1884 celebrated the erection of roller milling machinery at Thomas Robinson and Son's Ltd.
The cost of the machinery was £10,000.

Let The Band Play !

Today in 1909 the Buckley Hall Orphans' Band left Rochdale for a tour of Belgium.

Political Career Starts Here

Today in 1857 John Bright was elected M.P. for Birmingham, unopposed and free of expense.
He represented the town until his death in March 1889.

Look How Far We've Come !

Increased Urbanisation accompanied the Industrial Revolution as people moved into towns like Rochdale and cities like Manchester in search of work.
They had little leisure time at first but after the Bank Holiday Act and the 10 Hours Act of 1847 people eventually gained a little free time.
By 1871 many factories were closing at Saturday lunch times giving the working classes more time to take up sport and time to watch it.
And as they say.........    the rest is history !

I Wonder What They Wore ?

In the August Wakes Weeks of 1868 Heywood Athletic Club held a series of events at the Phoenix Grounds.
There were ten events including the 3 legged race, 100 yards flat race, high leaping and 400 yards hurdle race.
I wonder if there was a 'Rudisha' or a 'Bolt' taking part ?

Born To Run

Running is one of the oldest sports in our area and along with cricket is the first to be reported in the Rochdale Observer.
The runner in question was 'Treacle' Sanderson, who began running in 1855 aged 18.
He became one of the greatest distance runners of all time.
'Treacle' Sanderson died in December 1905.

Let There Be Light !

In 1891 a football match was held  between Hornets and Broughton Rangers, at night, by the aid of Wells' light.

Start Running !

The first annual meeting of Rochdale Harriers took place in 1895 with Colonel C. M. Royds elected as president.

...............Get Set, Go !

It was in 1866 that Rochdale's Athletic Club's first festival took place on the cricket ground at Merefield.
This club was the outcome of the Rifle Club formed a few years earlier.

On Your Marks............

During August 1894 meetings were held at Bancroft's Temperance Bar, Stoneyfield,
to instigate forming Rochdale Harriers Club.
Prior to this date there had been a harriers section of the Y.M.C.A.

Popular Pastime

According to T.T. Heywood in ' New Annals of Rochdale, '
Tennis had a vogue as an outdoor game during the summer of 1882.

Click on this link to learn a little more.

http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=1330

Record Breakers !

David Billington at the Rochdale Swimming Gala lowered the 500 yards record today.
The time was 6 minutes 25.4 seconds.
G.E. Whiteley lowered the 100 yards backstroke record to 1 minute 14 seconds.
This was in 1904.

Good Try !

It was at the beginning of August 1907 that Mr. J. Wild aged 74 of Milnrow Road failed in an attempt to swim across Hollingworth Lake.
He managed to reach halfway in 31 minutes.

Swimming Record !

A local record was created in 1883 when O.H. Rushworth swam 87 yards, 2 feet, under water in the Rochdale Baths.

Huge Crowd !

Today in 1897 C.H. Kilpatrick of America and E.C. Bredin ran a 600 yards race for a £100
on the Athletic Grounds. 4,000 people were present and Bredin won by one and a half yards.
The tine was 1 minute, 13 seconds.

Aspirations Of Henley !

It was during July 1862 that the Hollingworth Lake Rowing and Regatta Club was formed.

Ready Aim Fire !!!

During July 1868 Captain J. Fenton excelled at his sport of Rifle Shooting.
He won the Albert Cup at Wimbledon with the highest possible score,
which was seven bulls eyes at 500 yards.

Keen Sportsman

Queenie Newall our Olympic Archer ( see yesterday's post ) had a brother who was also a keen sportsperson.
Major Henry Gerard Fenton Newall was outstanding at Polo and also Hunting.
He was an officer in the Duke Of Lancaster's Own Yeomanry Cavalry.
It was said of the regiment that, ' a finer set of sportsmen do not exist.'

Rochdale's 'London Olympics' Link

                                                  The London Olympics 1908


Sybil Fenton 'Queenie' Newall was born at Hare Hill, Littleborough on 17th October 1854.
She was the eldest daughter of the ten children of Henry Newall and his wife Maria Fenton.
Her maternal grandfather, John Fenton was elected Liberal member of parliament for Rochdale in 1832 and was a friend of John Bright and Richard Cobden.
Queenie Newall never married and moved to Cheltenham to live with her sister Margaret in 1905.
In this year they joined the Cheltenham Archers Club and soon Queenie began to make a name for herself.
In 1907 she won four of the five regional archery meetings thus qualifying for the 1908 Olympic Games, which took place in London.
The archery contest was held in the White City Stadium on the 20th and 21st July with dreadful weather conditions on the first day.
On the second day the weather improved and Queenie soon took the lead winning the gold medal by a clear 43 points.
At the age of 53 years 275 days  Queenie was the oldest woman to have won an Olympic medal.
This record still stands today.
Queenie continued competing after the First World War, her last recorded score being with the Cheltenham Archers in September 1928.
She died at her home in Cheltenham on the 24th June 1929.

Goodbye !

Today in 1922 Lord Rochdale sold his house Beechwood to take up residence in London.

Show Time

Today in 1900 saw the start of The Royal Lancashire Show which was held at Greenhill.

Global Warming And All That !

A report in the Rochdale Observer for 1st August 1962 states that the previous month had been the driest July for 15 years !

Sport in Rochdale

Rochdale can actually boast of having an Olympic Archer, 'Queenie' Newall who features in the new Local Studies display called 'Sport in Rochdale'.
This is to link in with the Olympic Games which start in London very soon.

You can click on the link below for more local sporting history :

http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=1330

Evenin All !

Today Rochdale had a new Chief Constable, Mr. C. Buck.
Ex-Chief Constable Wilkinson was presented with an address and £250.
The year was 1893.

A Night Out All In A Good Cause !

In 1890 the fourth Infirmary Gala was held today at Foxholes.
The highlight was a parachute descent by a man called Baldwin.
38,000 people were present.

Oranges and Lemons.......

A peel of eight bells in Newhey Church tower first rang today in 1877.

Any More Bids ?

In 1889 the Old Clock Face Hotel, Lord Street was offered for sale but was withdrawn at £4,000.
This was on the 17th July.

77 Trombones .........

Today in 1888 the Rochdale Amateur Prize Band won the first prize, £37,16s at the Belle Competition.

A Day Of Rest

Just because it's Sunday, here is a little information about some of our churches :
St. Chad's was founded around 1194 with a major restoration in 1885.
St. James' Milnrow was founded in 1400, the existing church was consecrated in 1869.
Holy Trinity Littleborough was founded in 1741, the existing church consecrated in 1820.
St. Edmund's Falinge was built by A.H. Royds at a cost of £30,000 in 1873.
Shawclough U.M.F.C. was built by Thomas Watson of Horse Carrs at a cost of £3,500
in 1881. He also was the benefactor of the Infirmary, Thomas Watson died on March 7th 1887.
The Salvation Army Citadel opened on November 6th 1892.
There are 122 steps leading up to St. Chad's Church.
Trinity Presbyterian Church spire cost £1,070.
Baillie Street Chapel was able to seat 1,800 people.
And did you know that John Wesley made several visits to Rochdale.

Grand Day Out !

An Agricultural Show was held today in 1895, the first since 1877.
It was held on the Athletic Ground, Newbold and had 1,300 entries.
12,000 persons attended.

Let The Music Play !

The Police Band was formed today in 1882, £250 was raised by subscription for the purchase of instruments etc.

You Rang !

The automatic telephone system was brought into operation in Rochdale and district today in 1928.

Exceptional Service !

Presentation today, in 1929, to Miss Annie Shore, of the Imperial Service Medal.
This was awarded for long, devoted telephone service.
Miss Shore began work in Rochdale in 1891.

The One That Got Away !

Today in 1870 there was an Angling Match at Hollingworth Lake, which was promoted by the Walton Anglers' Association, 250 competitors took part.

Brand New Post

Mr Thomas Spencer was today appointed Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths ( 1837 ).
He held this office until December 1879.

Coffee Anyone ?

Rochdale's first public coffee house opened today in 1877 at 42, Drake Street.

Rail Shake !

According to 'Annals of Rochdale ', today in 1870 there was a railway accident at Milkstone.
About a dozen persons received a severe shaking !

Infirmary extended

The Holden wing of the Rochdale Infirmary was opened by Lord Stanley M.P., today in 1897.

Take That Down !

Today in 1881 the Hollingworth Lake and Gardens Company Ltd. was formed.
The company, most people thought, disfigured the picturesqueness of the Lake by erecting a large hoarding near the Lancashire and Yorkshire Hotel.

Batten down the hatches !

Still on the topic of unseasonal weather from yesterday, on July 3rd 1838, two bridges, Spotland bridge and Shepherd Mill bridge at Norden were washed away.
At Spotland bridge the water had risen 15 feet.
2,000 panes of glass at Kelsall and Kemp's mill were broken by hailstones.
In total the damage to property in the district was estimated at £80,000.

Rain Rain Go Away.........

Not quite a storm today - yet !
But on this day in 1866 a severe storm caused a coping stone weighing 2 cwt. to fall at the feet of several workmen at Brierley's mill on Manchester Road.

Howzat !

During the first weekend of July in 1884 the Castleton Cricket Club played a match against the Gentlemen of Philadelphia who were touring through England.

The Rochdale Olympic !

Remembering last Saturday when we had the honour of having the Olympic Torch pass through our streets.
Here is a little history on the Rochdale Olympic car which had a part to play in the Torch Procession.

The Rochdale Olympic breakthrough came in 1959 when Richard Parker designed this monocoque car, which was the only second glass fibre monocoque bodied car to enter production after the Lotus Elite.
The manufacturer was ' Rochdale Motor Panels and Enginneering ' and they continued production until 1973.

Blackpool Here We Come !

There is no mistaking the lads and lasses of Lancashire...........every train brings huge crowds of them, with huge carpet bags, boxes and bundle handkerchiefs, which they carry to their lodgings.These people mean business and intend to play at least a week...........

From an article in ' History Today '  Vol. 34      August 1984  called  ' Lancashire Wakes Week ' by
 Robert Poole.

Where Shall We Go Today !

Continuing our holiday theme please click on the link below for more information about holidaying during the war years.

http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=504

Wakes Week

In 1942, Rochdale's Mayor, Councillor James Hardman, proposed that Rochdale follow Huddersfield Corporation's experimental ' Holiday at Home ' scheme which had proved very popular in 1941.
The aim was to prevent a serious drop in public morale amongst thousands of families who were disappointed at losing their holiday by the sea.
Wartime restrictions had caused a lack of trains putting a temporary stop to people visiting the seaside.

Buckets And Spades At The Ready !

This week and next week in Rochdale were for many years holiday weeks.
Known as ' Wakes Weeks ' people had time off work, as all the factories closed down
during this period.
Blackpool, Morcambe and Southport were popular destinations with people arriving
by train in their hundreds.

Anyone for Pimms ?

Wimbledon starts today, lets hope for some better weather!

Many well to families had their own tennis courts in the grounds of their houses.
The Scott family of Littleborough who lived at Stubley New Hall played tennis
in the early 1900's.

You can see a photograph if you click on ' Photo Gallery ' on our website.

Football crazy !

In anticipation of the football match tonight, please click on the link below
to learn a little local football history.


http://www.link4life.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=c.showPage&pageID=1332

Flaming June !

Considering our recent weather and danger of flooding, here is a little information on the river Roche :

The Roche has it's source at Chelburn Moor between Summit and Walsden and then flows through Littleborough and the Roche Valley.
At one time it had more than 50 mills along it's bank.
The river Beal flows into the Roche at Smallbridge and west of the town centre the river Spod joins it.
The source of the Spod is in the hills around Whitworth.
Further west around Simpson Clough the Cheesden brook joins the Roche before it flows into the
river Irwell.

In recent days the river Irwell has caused much flooding.

Walk This Way !

During June 1903 there was a Manchester to Halifax walking match, the competitors passed through Rochdale.

Hope they had better weather than today !

Come into the garden !

Hyde Park Gardens, Milnrow Road were and for many years continued to be a popular resort.
June 1861.
Taken from New Annals of Rochdale by T.T. Heywood

Time to move on !

Balderstone pageant and coronation ceremony was held for the last time today in 1928.

New Church For Rochdale

Today in 1869 Trinity Presbyterian Church opened.
For three years previously services had been held in the British School.

Well Deserved Honour

Mr. T. Howarth J.P. was today in 1921 elected President of the North Western Federation of Building Trade Employers.

Stop Skating !

In 1877 on this day the skating rink at Castlemere closed.

Proud Men On Parade !

In 1866 on the 16th of June the Waterloo Veterans paraded through the streets of Rochdale.

Please click on the link below for a photograph of these men.




http://discover.link4life.org/display.php?irn=40169

Memories of Napoleon

Today in 1865 eleven Waterloo Veterans in the neighbourhood were entertained by the local Waterloo Relief Institution.

The Railway Age

It was during June 1862 that the Shawforth Branch Railway Bill was approved.
It was opposed by the Fieldens, who declared that the scheme would be for years, it
might be forever, a constant drain on the income of the Lancashire and Yorkshire
 Railway Company.

On The Move !

It was in June 1870 that the Post Office was removed from South Parade to the corner of Nelson Street and Drake Street.
The present building on the Esplanade was first proposed in 1911 but not completed until July 1927 due to the Great War.

Prime Location !

Today in 1863 Spring Hill Estate, Buersil which consisted of 23 acres, 23 perches was sold for £4,400.

Sunday Night Is Music Night !

It was during June 1856 that a series of Sunday concerts began on Cronkeyshaw.
They had large attendances.

Welcome Home !

Today in 1901 Major Kemp and members of the Rochdale Yeomanry arrived home
from Soith Africa to a civic welcome.

Flags At The Ready !

Today in 1922 the Whit Friday weather was good and huge crowds watched the procession.

Canal Rescue

On this day in 1914 a woman and two children were rescued from the Rochdale Canal near Clegg Hall.
Mr. Barber of Ramsey Street was the brave man.

Tribute To Tim

On the 7th of June 1892 the Tim Bobbin Memorial in St. Chads graveyard was unveiled.

Got a light ?

An entry in ' New Annals of Rochdale ' states :
Lamplighter wages were 16s per week.
The men were required to undergo drill and also act as supernumary constables.
This was in June 1858.

Location Location Location !

Crimble Hall was sold today in 1880, it was the residence of Lieutenant Colonel Fenton.
The property realised £12,300.

Help with the washing !

In 1915 today the new Co-op Laundry opened at Sparth.

End Of Hostilities

Today Rochdale rejoiced over the end of the Boer War, peace news was received the day before.
The year was 1902.

The Baptist Church in Deeplish

Today in 1899 a stone laying ceremony took place at Zion Baptist Deeplish.

This church is still thriving today.

Party Time !

In anticipation of the holiday weekend :

Go to the ' Discover ' part of the website, then ' Fun and frolics in the streets ' and on to ' Street Parties '.
You will see a photograph from the Local Studies Collection showing a Coronation street party on Clover Hall Crescent.
This was on the 2nd of June 1953 to celebrate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Time to Read

The Public Libraries Act today in 1870 was adopted by the town, Alderman Willans presided.

Elementary My Dear Watson !

Today in 1919 Sir Arthur Conan Doyle addressed a meeting in the Town Hall on Spiritualism.

New Name

On the 26th of May 1908 the new name Wet Rake was decided upon.
This plot of ground was formerley known as Halsteads Foundry.

Poor Woman

It was in this month in 1872 at Marland Workhouse that five children of a widow called Ellis died of Typhoid Fever.
The children aged 4, 9, 11, 16 and 20 all died in one week.

Station Please !

A public meeting today took place in 1872 of residents at Merefield and Sudden.
This was to urge the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company to provide a station at New Barn Lane.

Shocking Statistics

20th of May 1862 : Due to the Cotton Famine 3,879 cotton operatives were out of employment and 2,861 were on short time.

Gracie Fields and Samuel Turner: Honorary Freeman

On 19 May 1937 a complimentary luncheon was given to Miss Gracie Feilds and Samuel Turner Esq., J.P. on the occasion of their admission as Honorary Freeman of the Borough.

Modern Times

A new X ray installation was brought into operation today in 1925 at the Infirmary.

Early History

1724
Daniel Defoe went over Blackstone Edge in a snow storm.
The house called Old Falinge was erected at this time.

1745
Charles Wesley visited the town, he came again in 1752 and preached at Bankhouse, Bagslate.
Also in 1752 St. Chads Vicarage was rebuilt by Dr. Dunster.

1777
 The coach from Rochdale to London started, this journey took 5 days.

1787
The first steam engine in the district was erected at a colliery in Smallbridge.

1780
John Wesley, then aged 87 visited Rochdale for the last time.

999

On May 15th 1954 Rochdale ambulances were fitted with radio telephone equipment.

Save Our Trees

In 1951 begining today, efforts began to stop a private firm from felling trees in Ashworth Valley.
After several weeks the Heywood Town Council succeeded in obtaining a protection order in respect of the trees in this beauty spot.

Help Is At Hand

In 1957 on this day the Mayor's Appeal for the Hungarian Relief Fund closed with the total at £2,196.11s.1d.

Did They Sound The Alarm ?

In 1953 on May the 12th Littleborough Fire Station, which at the time was 150 years old, was found to be unsafe and was evacuated.

Unique Public House

It was in May 1841 that the Boat Inn at Belfield opened.
The boat had formerly carried passengers on the branch canal between Bluepits Railway Station and Heywood.
The redundant barge was balaced on an even keel on dry land then transformed into a wayside inn.
At first the deck was left open to enable customers to enjoy open air drinks on fine summer days
but with English summers being more damp than sunny the sides were eventually bricked up and roofed over. A nautical air was preserved with portholes set in the sloping sides!

Train Accident

A woman was killed by a train today in 1899 at Shawclough and a man was seriously injured.

Beginnings of the Industrial Revolution

It was in May 1829 that ten people in Rochdale were killed in a shuttle gathering riot.

To learn more please go to the ' Discover ' part of the website and then on to ' Riotous Assemblies '.

Raising The Big Top !

Today in 1912 Lord Sangers Circus came to town !

On Yer Bike !

A cycle parade today in Rochdale, the second in aid of raising funds for the Infirmary, raised
£199.3s.5d.
This was in 1894.

Costly Chair !

A pew in St. Chad's Church sold today in 1893 for £86.

The Tram Begins

Rochdale Tramways opened to the public today in 1883.
The first car started from The Wellington Hotel for Buersil then returning
and proceeding to Littleborough.

1890 and 1926

A General Strike was called today in 1926 by the Council Of  The Trades Union Congress.

On this day in 1890 Edwin Waugh was interred at Kersal Moor Church.

End Of That Era !

Today in 1902 it was announced that the ' Lock Up ' on Rope Street was to be demolished.

Looking into the Workhouse

Here are some extracts from the Spotland Workhouse Diary for May 1837 :


we have had 2 Funerals
since last Wednesday. James Crabtree
upwards of 70 yr
and Martha Cooper 69 years

Ann Clegg is yet very troublesome
we are in want of a Quantity of Knives

it is a fine time of year for Whitewashing
and puting the House in good repair
Ann Clegg we think is past oure
power of restoreing her to her right mind

Ann Clegg is worse than she was
it does not look likely we can bring her
right at oure place
Mr Stott brought us a Woman
last Thursday Morning   she had not been
in the House 1/2 un houre before she
bare a child    they are both doing well

Disorderly Meeting !

A rowdy meeting was held in the Public Hall today in 1871 in support of Bruce's Licensing Bill.
Great disorder prevailed.

Send in the Clowns !

Today in 1876 Charles Adam's Circus, probably the best of it's kind to visit Rochdale, opened in Newgate.

Labour Party Starts

Mr. MacDonald M.P. addressed a large gathering in the Town Hall today to celebrate the first direct return of Labour representitives to Parliament.
The year was 1874.

Tree Lined Street

Canadian Elms were planted today in 1870 on the Esplanade.

Northern Lights Here

Today in 1892 Rochdale experienced a brilliant display of Aurora Borealis.

Self Improvement

Statistics for the Working Men's Educational Institute, Ragged School which was on Mill Street show:
220 members with the average attendance at evening classes being 70.
This was on April 23rd 1856.

Milnrow Pioneer

Milnrow Pioneers Society was formed today in 1850. The premises were in Kiln Lane but the society was wound up in 1896.

Sparrow Hill

Today in 1843 the foundation stone of Sparrow Hill School was laid.
The building was later used as a Gymnasium.

Generous Gift

James Holden died today in 1896.
He left £2,000 to Rochdale Infirmary.

Women's Group

A Women's Citizens' Association was formed today in 1918.

Mill For Sale

Today in 1904 Milnrow Woollen Mills was sold by auction. It was bought by Mr. Ben Schofield for £8,900.

Free Culture !

Mr. W.A. Scott at a meeting of the Town Commissioners advocated the formation of a free library and museum.
This was on the 17th of April 1856.

First Lady

Mrs Catherine Buckley was today in 1926 elected first lady chairman of the Rochdale Board Of Guardians.

TITANIC

Headlines from the Rochdale Observer, April 17th 1912 -

LOSS OF THE ' TITANIC '

APPALLING DISASTER AT SEA

OVER 1,200 LIVES LOST

WORLD'S GREATEST SHIP SINKS IN MID-OCEAN

A ROCHDALE MAN AMONG THE CREW

The article continues giving passenger numbers and the fact that at least thirty passengers were millionaires. Col. J.J. Astor and Mr. M. Rothschild amongst them.

LAST NIGHT'S TELEGRAM FROM ST. JOHN'S NEWFOUNDLAND

' All hope of any passengers or crew of the Titanic other than those aboard the Carpathia being alive has now been abandoned and this afternoon all steamers which had been cruising in the vicinity of the disaster continued their voyage,'

The Rochdale man was named as Mr. Porteus who for several years had worked as a butcher on the White Star Line. Before this he had his own business at 29, Oldham Road. His parents run Schofield's dining rooms on Butts Avenue. He has four sisters living in Rochdale.

The article ended with a statement from the Carpathia -

' All the Titanic's boats are accounted for and yet only some eight or nine hundred are saved, '

In the Local Studies Collection we have this poem written by Ellen Butterworth of Trafford Street, Rochdale in memory of all who lost their lives :

Beer For Sale !

Sale today of Spotland Bridge Brewery.
14th of April 1845.

Deliveries !

The Parcel Post mail cart began running today in 1890.

Solar Eclipse

Rochdale saw an eclipse of the sun today under ideal conditions.
10th of April 1921.

High Honour

It was announced today in 1910 that the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir George Kemp was to be appointed as the Lieutenant-Colonel of the 6th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers.

New Church For Whitworth

Today in 1847 the corner stone of Whitworth Parish Church was laid.
The original church of St. Bartholomew was consecrated in 1532.
The new church was built during the 1850's.

Hard Times

Preparations began today in 1918 for a Tank Week.
Beginning on the 8th and ending on the 13th of April Rochdale people donated money for the war effort.

Pace Egg Play

Taking part in the annual Pace Egg Play was an Easter tradition in Lancashire in the 19th and 20th centuries.
These plays were performed in the streets by groups of children and their characters included :
St. George, Slasher, the Doctor, the Dragon and a Fool.
To learn more please go to the ' Discover ' part of our ' Arts and Heritage ' section.

Brewery Take Over !

Phoenix Brewery Co. today in 1890 purchased the Castleton Brewery Co.
The cost was said to be between £80,000 and £90,000.

Did yer like that !

Today in 1894 Roach Mills chimney which was 150 ft. high was felled by Mr. J. Smith.

Early Statistics

The census taken today in 1871 showed these results :

29,712 males living in Rochdale and 33,761 females living in Rochdale.

Murder at Captain Fold

On the 2nd of April 1848 a trial began where James Tetlow was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for the manslaughter of James Duckworth at Captain Fold in 1847.


Confused about yesterday's blog, just unscramble Olaf's name !

Watch Out Olaf's About !

Today in A.D. 789 Olaf Opril, on his way from Lindisfarne, sailed his longship up the Roach in readiness for a week of rape and pillage.

The Steam Age

The Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company's coal sidings in Milnrow Road opened today in 1884.

Out With The Old !

Demolition began today in 1884 of a large number of buildings in Church Lane, The Gank and King Street as part of an improvement plan.

Free Skating For All !

At this time in 1924 Hollingworth Lake was frozen over for many days.

How times are a changing !

High Office

Mr. Samuel Turner J.P.was today in 1930 appointed High Sheriff of the County Palatine of Lancashire.

To Be Or Not to Be !

Today in 1864 the Rochdale Shakespearian Society was formed.

Walk This Way !

John Street new bridge opened today in 1864 to foot passengers only.

Walking Through Our Town

Today in 1903 Anton Hanslian with his wife and pushing a perambulator, on a world tour, passed through Rochdale.

Anton Hanslian was a famous walker who travelled all over the world.

Pit Closure

On the 24th of March 1886 Dearnley Pit closed. 100 hands were thrown out of employment.

Trip continues.........

The Freedom Of The City Of Glasgow was conferred upon John Bright today in 1883.

Trip to Scotland

Today in 1883 John Bright was installed as Lord Rector of Glasgow University.

Votes For Women !

On the 21st of March 1907 three Rochdale suffragettes were sent to prison for demonstrating in London.

Celebration at the Good Shepherd

Today in 1913 a new chancel and vestry were consecrated by the Bishop of Manchester at the Good Shepherd Church.

End Of That Era

It was on this day in 1894 that Fieldhouse School, erected in 1839 was pulled down.

The Job Needs Finishing !

Today in 1882 there was a Government enquiry into the Town's application to borrow £100,000 to complete Spring Mill Reservoir.

Quake Today

An eathquake today in 1843 was felt in the town.

Books For All

Today in 1885 the Lending Department of the Free Library on the Esplanade opened.

Hangman Retires

John Ellis of Lowerplace retired from the post of Public Executioner which he had held for 23 years.
This was on the 15th of March 1924.

Similar Weather

According to the Manchester Courier for this time in 1848 the weather had been, just like now very pleasant and for the time of year quite warm !
The article continued to hope for a favourable Easter in terms of weather and a good summer.

A Very Important Man

Today in 1887 was the funeral of Thomas Watson. Four years before he had gifted a much needed infirmary to the town.
His gift was his memorial to his eldest daughter who had died in 1882.

A Very Long Petition !

It was in March 1840 that a petition against the Corn Laws was presented to Parliament.
It had 9,700 signatures and was 170 feet long.

The Trams Are Coming

A town meeting was held today in 1900 as to acquiring tramways. The meeting supported this Parliamentary Bill.

By November the Rochdale Tramways Committee was set up and it had it's first meeting on the 23rd of that month.

Progress

On March 7th 1912 an electric tramway route opened from Milnrow to Newhey.

Celebrity Concert

Dame Clara Butt sang today in 1921 at the Town Hall.

The One That Got Away !

Today in 1914 1,000 trout were put into Spring Mill Reservoir by the local Angling Society.

Were they marching ?

J.P. Sousa and his band were in Rochdale today.
March 4th 1905.

Bricks For Sale !

On this day in 1899 the Newhey Brick and Terra Cotta Works opened.

Help For The Unemployed

On March 1st 1904 a Labour Bureau was opened at 25 Baillie Street for the unemployed.

In The Nick Of Time !

Today in 1900 Police surprised 200 men at a cock fight on Ashworth Moor near Cheesden Lumb Mill.
The fight which was a Lancashire v. Yorkshire match did not take place.

A Visit From America

The Jubilee Singers from the United States of America paid a second visit to the Town today.
This was in 1885.

A Little More Education

St. Alban's Day Schools opened today in 1860 at a cost of £1,200.

Smart New Assett to Town Centre

Today in 1896 the Park Slopes were connected by a bridge across the roadway leading from the Esplanade to Sparrow Hill.

Royal Wedding

Today in 1858 the Town Council adopted an address to the Queen on the marriage of Princess Royal, which Alderman R.T. Heape and Alderman Royds presented at a Levee on the 18 February.

New Store

On the 19th February 1869 the Conservative Store, No. 62 Water Street opened.

Out Of The Rain !

Today in 1893 the Cabmen's Shelter, Station Road opened at a cost of £200.

Our Important Statesman

Today in 1896 a statue of John Bright was unveiled in Westminster Hall.

Education For All

On February 15th 1887 a town meeting was held where it was decided to build a Technical School to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee.

Be My Valentine !

In 1871 20,000 Valentines passed through the Post Office.

So Different To Now !

Today in 1886 The Free Public Library began opening on Sundays.
On the first Sunday 976 people visited rhe rooms.

Stuff of nightmares !

An exhumation today in Castleton of the body of Mrs. Finley, who died in February 1886, mother of Mrs Berry the Oldham poisoner.

Observer report February 1887

Canal Escape

Today in 1894 the canal embankment at Castleton burst.

Every Home Should Have One !

An Observer article from the 10th January 1977 stated :

SLIPPER BATH CLOSURE, SIGN OF THE TIMES
Demand for such facilities has dropped considerably due to improved housing,
this facility will still be available but the times of opening will be greatly reduced.

Run away tram

On this day in 1922 a tram car ran away down John Street overturning and crashing into the Pioneers Store at the bottom.
Eighteen people were injured including Mr. F. H. Rudd who was the Borough Electrical Engineer.

Weather Warning

On February 8th 1900 there was a severe snowstorm described as the worst for 18 years.

Beyond The Call Of Duty

In February 1919 Miss E. J. Whitehead of Watkin Street was decorated by the King with the Red Cross for war services.

Short Lived

By February 6th 1827 the ' Rochdale Recorder ' had been going for one month.
It was a constitutional newspaper priced at 7d and published weekly.
Although starting well it only lasted a short time becoming defunct the following year.

Mill Building

The year 1900 saw an important activity in mill building.
At this period the Victoria had been running 15 months while the State and Sparth mills were in the course of construction.
The Eclipse started later in this year but all mills reported reduced profits during this time.

Skating on the Lake !

1912 saw freezing weather conditions just as now.
Hollingworth Lake was frozen enough to skate on and the Local Studies Library has photographic evidence of this.
Please call in if you are nearby and have a look.

Our Gracie !

Today marks the end of a Charity Week where Gracie Fields efforts raised £1,673 for local charities.
During the week she visited the Nurses' Home, Crippled Children's Home, the Infirmary, Birch Hill and the Rotary Club Dance.
She attended a hot pot supper at the Town Hall and her performance at the Hippodrome on Friday night was broadcast by the B.B.C.

The year was 1931.

Before the flu jab !

At this time in 1908 there was a widespread epidemic in Rochdale of influenza.

The Queen is dead. Long live the King.

Today in 1901 following the death of Queen Victoria, Rochdale proclamed that Edward heir to the throne was now King.

Literary Visitor

On January 29th 1905 Mr. George Bernard Shaw spoke at the Public Hall.

On yer bike !

Today in 1893 the Cycle industry was introduced to the town by Mr. Samuel Tweedale of Oldham Road.

Up In Flames !

Today in 1894 The Theatre Royal, Manchester Road had a disastrous fire which caused £8,000 worth of damage.

Notable Fires

During January 1916 these mills all had fires :
Albert Mill, Crawford Street, causing several thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Ellenroad Mill, Newhey, £150,000 or possibly £200,000 worth of damage.

Messers A. Tattersall & Co., Oakenrod, cost of damage reaching several thousands of pounds.

On the 26th of January 1914 the C.W.S. Paint Works, Weir Street caught fire with damage upwards of £40,000.

But what about the horses ?

This headline was in the Manchester Courier on the 25th of January 1838 :

COACH ACCIDENT
During the severe gale on Wednesday morning the York mail was blown over at the bottom of Blackstone Edge.
There were no passengers and fortunately the coachman and guard escaped without injury.

Young Sweep

From the 'Rochdale Sentinel' January 24th 1855 :

CHIMNEY SWEEPING CASE

Mr. James Crabtree, the manager of Mr. Walker's Mill, Oldham Road was charged with allowing a boy to ascend a flue in that mill. The boy is fourteen years old.

Lad Wanted

An advert from the 'Rochdale Sentinel' today in 1855 :
Wanted a steady active LAD, of good character, not nore than 15,
as an Apprentice to the STONEMASON BUSINESS -
Apply to Mr. John Warburton,
Drake Street,
Rochdale.

Steady Growth

The population of Rochdale in 1801 was 29,101, in 1811 it was 37,229 and in 1821 it was 47,109.

Burst Pipe

Today in 1924 a water main burst and flooded houses in Drake Street.

No More Ringing Here !

A Publican was fined at Rochdale Sessions on Wednesday last.
James Butterworth of the Angel Inn Blackwater Street was convicted and fined 20s and costs for allowing hand bell ringers and disorderly company in his house on Sunday evening.

This appeared in the Manchester Courier on the 20th January 1844.

Dangerous Pastime

Skating Fatality.
Three young men drowned at Hollingworth on this day in 1846.

Should have known better !

The Chief Constable, Leonard Barry today in 1917 summoned himself for breach of the new Lighting Order.
He was fined 10/-

War in Rochdale

A German field gun captured at Loos arrived in Rochdale today in 1916.

Everbody Out !

On January 15th 1912 the sanitary workers went on strike.
New men were taken on and the strike collapsed within a week.

What shall I go as ?

Today in 1911 the Mayor and Mayoress ( Sir James and Lady Duckworth ) gave a fancy dress ball for children.

Find The Money !

Exciting scenes today in the town centre when a London magazine hid money as part of a treasure hunt.
1904

Beginning of the Eclipse

Today in 1899 the Mayor ( Councillor Miles Ashworth ) cut the first sod in connection with the erection of the Eclipse Mill.

Shall We Dance ?

A Subscription Ball took place at the Theatre on the 12th ( 1833 ) in honour of Mr. Fenton's election.
The meeting was most respectably attended and constituted an assemblage of beauty and fashion seldom if ever equalled in the town.
There were nearly 200 persons present. Dancing commenced at 7 and continued until 2 0'clock in the morning when the company separated highly gratified by the enjoyment of the night's entertainment.
The viands were excellent and did great credit to Mr. Fisher of the Beaver Inn by whom they were supplied.

Extract from a Manchester newspaper.

Something to Celebrate !

On January 11th 1873 Public Houses opened till midnight on account of the first market.

Local Celebrity !

Today in 1870 Edwin Waugh gave readings from his works in the Public Hall.

Sunday Worship

On the 9th of January 1868 Sunday Services began at Town Mill Brow School.
They were continued until the opening of Saint Edmunds Church, May 7th 1873.

A Glimpse of the Workhouse

Here are two diary entries by Alexander Cheetham, master of Spotland Workhouse for January 1837:

we are in want of 10 or 12lb of Black stockingyarn
we have a deal of black stockins
that wants footing and mending


we gave Old Diggle leave to go to Bury to see his friends on Monday morning
he went of he had not been gone long when John Holt mised a good new waistcoat
search was made Imediatley and it could not be found
we sent a man after Diggle and he found it concealed
in his breast we believe he as other things belonging the same man

Imprisioned For Their Beliefs

Today in 1840 a Chartist meeting was held in The Butts to adopt a petition for the release of
Jones, Williams and Frost, imprisioned Chartist Leaders.

Smooth Landing?

Mr. B.C. Hicks the famous aviator descended the foot of Brown Wardle today in 1914.

Stop Here

Today in 1901 the canal was blocked and stayed so for a couple of days at Lock Bridge due to the sinking of a barge.

Donation To The Town

Dr. H.C. March M.D. on this day in 1896 presented to the town a collection of flints and fossils.

They were placed in the Free Public Library.

Time For A Break

Today in 1876 the first market holiday was held.

The practice of extending the opening hours of public houses until midnight was discontinued on this day.

As long as it wasn't frozen over !

On January the 2nd 1883 Sunday boating and associated activities were introduced at Hollingworth Lake.

Hoping For A Better New Year

Today in 1867 a torchlight procession took place on Cronkeyshaw to protest against the reform bill,

10,000 persons were present and a boy was killed.