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28/01/1921
Western Daily Press
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Mr Moses Davies
Mr Moses Davies, of Chesterfield Buildings, retired commercial traveller, who died on the 7th November last, left gross estate of the value of £3489 9s 8d, with net personalty £3414 18s 11d.
24/01/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. C. E. B. Barnwell
News reached Bath on Saturday of the death at Torquay, on the 20th, of the Rev. C. E. B. Barnwell, M.A. who was a well-known resident of that city for several years, removing thither when he resigned the living of Southbroom near Devizes, in 1897. Mr Barnwell, who was 74, was President of the Royal Mineral Water Hospital for three years from 1912, and was connected with several other charitable institutions in the city.
09/02/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. R. Hicks
The announcement of the death of Mr W. R. Hicks was received everywhere yesterday with much regret, and numerous friends paid sincere tributes to his literary ability, as well as to his good social qualities. Sir William Howell Davies, M.P., presiding at the conference of Coalition Liberals, said :- " I think members present who have been in the habit of receiving a copy of the 'Western Daily Press', which is so familiar in our homes, would like me, at this first meeting since the death of Mr Hicks, to express on your behalf and my own our deep regret that that gentleman has passed away. His leading articles for so long a period were marked by great ability; they were always temperate and just, and they always gave a great lead upon political questions. Throughout all the vicissitudes of the Liberal Party during the last 30 or 40 years he was always a true and staunch friend. I am sure you would like to express your deep sympathy with the family in the great loss they have sustained". Sir William's remarks were punctuated with expressions of approval, and at the end all rose in their places as a mark of respect to the deceased.
17/02/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Milton
Mr John Milton, of 32 Abbotsford Road, Redland, Bristol, dentist, who died on the 25th October last, left gross estate of the value of £6246 2s 9d with net personalty £3271 6s 3d.
11/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Miss Mariabella Fry
The Late Miss M. Fry
Many Charitable Requests
Miss Mariabella Fry, of Failand House, Failand, near Bristol, county of Somerset, eldest daughter of the late Sir Edward Fry, who died on the 26th of November last, aged 59, left gross estate of the value of £29,136 4s 3d, with net personalty £29,026 11s 5d.
Testatrix leaves the following charitable bequests:-
£2000 to the Clevedon Cumberland Homes, to endow a bed for men and a bed for women.
£1000 to the National Union of Trained Nurses. Income from same to be applied by the Somerset and Bristol Board either to assist free and associate professional members within the area of Bristol and Somerset towards their post graduate training, or to provide annuities for deserving full and associate professional members incapacitated by work or ill-health, and whose means do not exceed £200 per annum.
£1000 to the Children's Convalescent Homes at Weston-super-Mare, for the endowment of a cot, in the hope that the same may be primarily used for the delicate children from elementary schools within the area of the Long Ashton union needing change and treatment and recommended by the long Ashton education Committee.
£1000 to the Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Women.
£1000 to the Bristol General Hospital for endowment of a maternity bed for married mothers, to be recommended by the Council of the Bristol Infant Welfare Association and Council of Schools for Mothers.
£1000 to the Bristol Private Hospital for Women and Children.
£1000 to the Friends' Foreign Mission Association for mission
work in India.
£100 each to- The Bristol Temperance Home and Lying-in Hospital;
The Bristol Infant Welfare Association and Council of Schools for
Mothers;
The Read Dispensary for Women and Children, Bristol;
The Weston-super-Mare District Nurses' Association;
The Somerset County Nursing Association;
The School Children's National Provident Club;
the Central Council of the National Union of Trained Nurses;
The National Union of trained Nurses (Bristol Branch);
The Clapham Maternity Hospital;
The Broad Plain School for Mothers, towards providing a Samaritan
Fund;
The Bristol and Clifton District Nurses' Association and Nurses'
Home;
£50 to the Pill School for Mothers and Babies Welcome.
17/02/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Samuel Robert Gorvett
Mr Samuel Robert Gorvett, of 22 Codrington Road, Bishopston, Bristol, retired builder, who died on the 1st November last, left gross estate of the value of £5592 13s with net personalty £4395 12s 4d.
03/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Walter Pitt
Mr Walter Pitt, of Southstoke House, near Bath, chairman of Messrs Stothert and Pitt Ltd, mechanical engineers, who died on the 10th January last, aged 68 years, left a gross estate of the value of £104,376 8s 10d. with net personalty £96855 12s 6d.
03/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Kate Pickering
Mrs Kate Pickering of 13, Berkeley Square, Bristol, wife of Charles Frederick Pickering, surgeon, who died on the 14th October last, left gross estate of the value of £5419 5s 9d, with net personalty £5356 11s 3d.
03/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Francis Abel William Taylor Armstrong
Mr Francis Abel William Taylor Armstrong of 42, St Michael's Hill, Bristol, artist, who died on the 1st December last, left gross estate of the value of £4660 5s 10d, with net personalty [amount missing]
03/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. Thomas Henry Barnett
The Rev. Thomas Henry Barnett, of 8, Cotham Gardens, Bristol, formerly of St. Mary's Vicarage, Lower Easton, Bristol, who died on the 10th November last, left gross estate of the value of [amount missing]
08/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr F. F. Jones
The death has occurred in Gloucestershire of Dr F. F. Jones who formerly practised at East Twerton, Bath, where his wife and family still live. Dr Jones was a native of Clifton, and after qualifying in 1885 practised for a while at Swindon, where he held a commission in the Wilts Volunteers. At Bath he practised first at Weston and then at Twerton. For some seasons he was a forward in the Bath Rugby XV. Deceased was 58 years of age. He leaves a widow and three sons, one of whom was a Lieutenant in the 7th Somerset L.I., being given his commission after serving as a private in the 4th Somersets in India.
18/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Wallace Hunter
Mr James Wallace Hunter, of 21, Bayswater Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol, railway agent, managing director of Messrs J. C. Wall, Ltd., who died on December 27 last, left gross estate of the value of £12964 12s 3d, with net personalty £12,068 2s 3d.
28/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Bradgate Haines
Mr Henry Bradgate Haines, of Norwood House, 121 Ashley Road, Bristol, pawnbroker and jeweller, who died on the 16th April last, left gross estate of the value of £4,294 2s 6d with net personalty £1989 11s.
06/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. John Padfield
The Rev. John Padfield, of 5, All Saints' Road, Clifton, Bristol, who died on the 15th February last, left gross estate of the value of £15,102 3s 6d, with net personalty £11 11s 4d.
19/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Richards
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Richards, sugar merchant, Queen Street, following a serious operation. Mr Richards as a young man entered the employ of Messrs H. H. and S. Budgett, for whom he acted as sugar buyer. Leaving them, he set up on his own account, and had carried on business for a long period of years. He was well-known and highly respected. He was in regular attendance at the Commercial Rooms, where he met business friends, and the news that he had passed away was received there with much regret by his numerous friends.
22/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. John Hancock
The announcement of the death of Rev. John Hancock M.A. which took place in Birmingham, will be received with great regret by his many friends in Bristol, and particularly Old Colstonians. The deceased held the post of headmaster of the Colston School for a period of about 30 years, viz. January 1871 until July 1901, and it was undoubtedly the good work he accomplished during that time which laid the foundations for the substantial progress
which the school has made under the present headmaster. On leaving the school Mr Hancock, although by no means a young man, continued to pursue an active life as the vicar of Horkstow, in Lincolnshire for some years, and, even after relinquishing that charge, did some strenuous work in Birmingham, acting as curate to his son, who holds a living in that city.
25/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. E. J. P. Wilkins-Leir
The Rev E. J. P. Wilkins died at Weston House, Upper Weston, Bath, on Saturday, at the age of 86. He was the son of the late Rev. Edmund Wilkins by his marriage with Miss Mary Leir, a member of the well-known Somerset family of that name. In 1881 he assumed the name of Leir in addition to his own. Mr Wilkins-Leir had not held any appointment in the Church since 1877, when he resigned a curacy in Norfolk. He was an extensive owner of property in Weston, and a general supporter of local charities.
27/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Sarah Sophie Taylor
The Late Mrs. S. S. Taylor
Death of Widow of late City Librarian
We regret to announce the death of Mrs Sarah Sophie Taylor, widow of the late John Taylor, City Librarian and local historian and antiquary, and mother of Mr Acland Taylor, the present City Librarian, which occurred at her residence 15, Abbotsford Road, Redland, yesterday.
The deceased lady, who was in her 88th year, was born at Painswick, Gloucestershire, in 1833, and was married at her home in 1858, to Mr Taylor, who was a Bristolian. Despite the fact that she had reached an advanced year, Mrs Taylor was extremely active to the last, retained her faculties and was possessed of a wonderful memory, her accuracy in recording dates and events being particularly remarkable. She remembered home events at the time of the Crimean War and the sending of puddings to the troops in Russia, and often spoke with particular knowledge of the corn laws and incidents connected therewith. Mr Taylor died in April, 1893, so that she survived him by exactly 28 years. Her home and children were her particular care, and during her widowhood led an almost secluded life.
During the war she took a very active part in Red Cross work, making an abundance of articles for soldiers. For four years she worked extremely hard and was rewarded for her labours by the bestowal upon her of the Red Cross medal, issued in connection with working parties for work done for soldiers. She often accompanied her husband in her younger days on his expeditions, but the conduct of her home and the training of her children were everything to her. She was loved by a large circle of friends, and although she took no active part in city life, was known to a large number of acquaintances, who will learn with regret that she has passed away.
02/05/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr R. E. Greenhough
Death of Mr R. E. Greenhough
Mr R. E. Greenhough, who died on Saturday at Lothal, Knowle, after a protracted illness, came to Bristol in 1872 from Northampton at the age of 23, and immediately entered into the religious and social life of the city. As a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church he was an active worker for a few years in North Street Sunday School, but on his marriage in 1876 he joined the newly-erected church in Bushey Park and opened a drapery business in that neighbourhood. Both as a church worker and a business man he was eminently successful, and after his retirement from business at an early age he threw all his energies into church and public work. For over 25 years he was superintendent of Bushey Park Sunday School, and for a similar period did effective work as class leader and local preacher. His administrative gifts and force of character were soon recognised, and during his life he occupied many important public positions. He was a member of the City Council from 1913 until ill-health compelled his retirement. Prior to 1894 Mr Greenhough was a member of Long Ashton Board of Guardians for some time. He was then elected to the Bristol Board, and for over a quarter of a century gave himself to service on behalf of the children of the poor. His sense of justice and kindly disposition won the affection and esteem of all who met him, and in 1908 he was elected Chairman of the Board of Guardians, an office he filled with dignity and credit. Mr Greenhough leaves behind him an excellent record of service, and much sympathy will be extended to Mrs Greenhough and the other members of the family. The funeral will take place on Wednesday at Arno's Vale the first part of the service being held at Bushey Park Church at three o'clock.
11/05/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Henry Millard
Death of Mr T. H. Millard
The death is announced of Mr Thos. Henry Millard, a well-known old Bristolian at his residence, 47 Howard Road, Westbury Park. Mr Millard, who was one of the most popular business men in the city, commenced business as a jeweller in Dolphin Street, some 40 years ago. He was keenly interested in all forms of sport, being at one time a member of the Bristol Bicycles and Motor Club, and he used to supply the sports prizes for the County Ground. He was a freemason of long standing, belonging to the Moira Lodge of Honour No. 326. Mr Millard received a terrible shock some little time ago when one of his sons was killed in a motor smash on Blackboy Hill. He leaves a widow, two sons, and two daughters, for whom much sympathy will be felt, and possessed a host of friends in the West of England. He was always a welcome guest at the old Press dinners at the Royal Hotel, and being possessed of a pleasing light baritone voice generally contributed to the musical programme upon which Mr Monague Worlock's name so often figured. The funeral takes place to-day at Canford Cemetery at 12 o'clock.
12/05/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Samuel Lazarus
Mr Samuel Lazarus, of 14, Belgrave Villas, Cotham Grove, Cotham, Bristol, pawnbrokers, who died on the 6th March last, left gross estate of the value of £34,722 18s 3d., with net personalty £28,207 0s 9d. Among the requests was £50 to the Jews' Synagogue, Clifton, for repairs or improvements.
12/05/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Robert Clement Bush
Mr Robert Clement Bush, of 1, Winifred's Dale, Bath, formerly member of Stuckey's Bank, Bath, who died on the 4th March last, aged 81 years, left gross estate of the value of £21364 1s 9d. with net personalty £16,472 12s 6d. The bequests include £100 each to the Bath General or Royal Mineral Water Hospital and the Bath Royal united Hospital, and £100 to the vicar and churchwardens of St. Mary Charlcombe, for the upkeep of the churchyard.
04/06/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr J. M. Fortescue-Brickdale
Death of Dr Fortescue-Brickdale
We regret to announce the death of Dr J. M. Fortescue-Brickdale, physician, of 52, Pembroke Road. Dr Fortescue-Brickdale had been in practice in Clifton for rather more than twenty years, and was one of the physicians to the Bristol Royal Infirmary and to Clifton College. He was M.A., M.D., Oxon, a member of the Royal College of Physicians, London, and during the war he held the rank of captain in the R.A.M.C., Territorial Force. Dr Fortescue- Brickdale was late Lecturer in Pharmacology at the University of Oxford, also late house physician at Guy's Hospital and the Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Women, besides being clinical lecturer to the University of Bristol, and Director of Public Health Laboratories of the University. He made many important contributions to medical literature, being joint author with Professor Francis of "The Chemical Basis of Pharmacology," and "A Practical Guide to Newer Remedies." He was very popular amongst his colleagues, and his death will be very deeply felt by a large circle of friends. Dr Fortescue-Brickdale was a brother of Sir Charles Brickdale, Registrar of the Land Registry, Lincoln's Inn Fields and grandson of the Judge Lloyd, K.C., formerly Judge of the Bristol County Court. For some years he has been one of the churchwardens of All Saints', Pembroke Road, Clifton. He leaves a widow and two sons. He aunt was a Mother Foundress of the House of Charity, Knowle, where she has now retired from the active work of the Sisterhood. The funeral will take place on Tuesday.
30/06/1921
Western Daily Press
Mr Charles Wills
Will
Will of the Late Mr Charles Wills
Mr Charles Wills, of Avonore, Sneyd Park, Bristol, chairman of Messrs Charles Wills and Son, Ltd., wholesale clothiers, of Rupert Street, who died on the 17th April last, aged 83 years, left gross estate of the value of £68,680 1s 11d with net personalty £68,497 3s 6d. Testator desired, if not finished and presented in his lifetime, that the painting of "Avonmouth Docks" by Mr Wilde Parsons, should be presented to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Burgesses of Bristol for the Art Gallery, and an oil painting of himself for the Council House or Public Picture Gallery. £100 each to the Bristol Benevolent Institution, the Bristol General Hospital, and the Bristol Royal Infirmary. £50 each to the Medical Mission, Bristol, the Bristol Royal Hospital, the Congregational College, Bristol, the Bristol Blind Asylum, the Orthopaedic Hospital, and the Home for Crippled Children.
04/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr David Johnstone
Death of Mr D. Johnstone
Many citizens will learn with regret of the death of Mr David Johnstone, solicitor, which has occurred at his residence, Redland Hall, Redland. Mr Johnstone, who was widely known in the city, was 62 years of age, and his death occurred after only a short illness. He took a considerable interest in sport, and at one time played for the Bohemian Cricket Club.
12/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Harry Symes
Death of Mr Harry Symes
The death has occurred at the residence of his daughter, Mrs J. C. Dovey, Golden Valley Mill, Bitton, of Mr Harry Symes, in his 72nd year. For many years he was a member of Messrs Symes and Co., provision merchants, in Victoria Street, and was well-known and esteemed amongst his confreres in the West of England. For a number of years he was a member of the Bristol Board of Guardians. He was a member, and at one time an officer, of Clifton Conservative Association. Mr Harry Symes was a brother of Sir Robert Symes, who in 1902-3 was Mayor of Bristol. Deceased leaves two sons and three daughters.
18/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Dester
Mr John Dester, of 2, Berkeley Square, Clifton, Bristol, stockbroker, formerly of 43 Alina Road, Clifton, who died on the 16th January last, aged 85 years, left gross estate of the value of £7159 9s 5d, with net personalty £1154 18s 8d.
19/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Harries
Requests to Bristol Institutions
Mr William Harries, of Woodview, Eastfield Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, who died on the 30th April last left gross estate of the value of £14,706 0s 3d, with net personalty of £7678 10s 7d. Testator left £50 each to the Bristol General Hospital, the Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Women, the Bristol Royal Infirmary, the Bristol City Mission Society, the Shaftesbury Crusade, Bristol, and the Medical Missionary Society Dispensary, Red Cross Street, Bristol, and £10 each to the Gloucester and Hereford County Union, and the Preventive Mission, Bristol. £125 shares in the Broadway Gas Company, to the Evesham Cottage Hospital.
22/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick William Bird
Death of Mr F. W. Bird
The death has taken place in Sydney, N.S.W., while on holiday, of Mr Fred William Bird, headmaster of Benoni Government School, Transvaal, and late of Barton Hill School, Bristol. The deceased was at St. Nicholas (City) School, under the late Mr John Gard, and after leaving Culham Training College, Oxford, was appointed Assistant Master at Barton Hill under the late Mr Henry Gay. Immediately after the South African War, Mr Bird in company with Messrs P. F. Dewar (of local Rugby memory) and Arthur Colston (all Assistants Masters at Barton Hill), left England to take up positions under the South African Government. The deceased was very highly respected, and sympathy is extended to the relatives, several of whom are well-known in educational circles in this city.
26/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Charles Ackland
The Late Mr H. C. Ackland
Many citizens to whom he was known in business and private circles will regret the death of Mr Henry Charles Ackland, of Union Street and Glentworth Road, Redland. He was a well-known tradesman in the centre of the city. He had carried on business in stationary and fancy goods at the foot of Union Street for nearly forty years. He was quiet and genial in manner, and these characteristics, with his other good personal qualities, endeared him to everyone with whom he came into contact. The name of Ackland was been identified with this class of business in central Bristol for a very long period. The late Mr Ackland's father, Mr James Akland, had a similar business in Dolphin Street so long ago as the "forties," and when this was closed Mr H. C. Ackland opened in Union Street, where he remained ever since. The funeral was at Canford Cemetery, the service being conducted by the Rev. Ernest Walters, vicar of St Nathanael's, Cotham. Among the mourners were Mr Leslie Ackland (son), Mr Norman Edger (nephew), and Mr W. H. Goodenough. Mr Ackland leaves a widow (Mrs Ackland of Glentworth Road) and two sons, Mr Leslie Ackland, and Mr Reginald Ackland, of Columbus, Ohio.
28/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Basil Legge Wyld
The Late Mr Basil Legge Wyld
The funeral of the late Mr Basil Legge Wyld, who died at his residence, 73, Woodland Road, Tyndall's Park, last Friday, took place on Tuesday at Canford Cemetery, the Rev. Canon H. R. Wilkins officiating. The late Mr Wyld came to Bristol from Manchester in 1880, on his appointment as superintendent of the Fire Brigade, but for the past 32 years he has been connected with the Bristol United Breweries, Ltd. He was a Freemason, and a member of the Beaufort Lodge No. 103. The mourners were Messrs James and John Wyld (sons), Mr George Chapman (Prince's Theatre), Mr Anstey, Mr Knight, Mr Hodges, and Mr Bye. A number of friends assembled in the cemetery. There were no flowers by request. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs Chandler, of White Ladies Road.
28/07/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Martin Colston
Mr William Martin Colston, of 170, Lawrence Hill, Bristol, undertaker, who died on the 18th March last, left gross estate of the value of £5,037 19s 11d. with net personalty £2,848 14s 6d.
04/08/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr S. C. Fryer
Funeral of Mr S. C. Fryer
The funeral of the late Mr S. C. Fryer, 3, Clift Road, Ashton Gate, took place on Tuesday, and prior to the interment at Arno's Vale, a short service was conducted at the residence of the deceased by the Rev W. G. Taylor, pastor of Hope Chapel, Dowry Square, with which Mr Fryer was actively associated in the capacity of Sunday School superintendent for upwards of 30 years. Mr Fryer, was keenly interested in local business and commercial circles. He joined the Midland Railway Company in 1876, and at the time of his death was engaged as collector in connection with the St Philip's goods depot.
11/08/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Harry Symes
Mr Harry Symes, of Golden Valley Mills, Bitton, formerly of Avon Road, Keynsham, who died on the 11th July last, left gross estate of the value of £8,701 10s 1d, with net personalty £8,64 0s 3d.
30/09/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. J. Cade
Death of Mr W. J. Cade
The death was announced yesterday of Mr W. J. Cade, M.R.C.V.S., one of the best known and most popular of members of his profession in the West of England. He was the friend of animals, and associated with various organisations who care for their welfare. He was veterinary inspector for the City and County of Bristol, and also held an official appointment under the Board of Agriculture. For over 13 years he was veterinary officer to the Bristol Dogs' Home, and during that time his sound knowledge and practical experience were found to be invaluable. When the quarantine quarters at the Home were full to overflowing in 1919, as a consequence of dogs suffering from rabies being brought from France, Mr Cade was a constant visitor, his advice being of great assistance. He leaves a widow and one son. The funeral will take place at Canford Cemetery at 12 o'clock to-morrow.
01/10/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman John Coole
Death of Ald. J. Coole
A Fine Record of Public Service
We regret to announce the death, which took place Thursday, of Alderman John Coole, whose public work for the city had extended over a long period of years. The deceased had reached the ripe age of 80 years but until the last year he had enjoyed splendid health and was as keen and practical in his consideration of municipal matters as he was earlier in life. Gradually, however, the fine constitution failed and he passed away yesterday.
Alderman Coole was born on February 28th, 1841, and was the son of the late Mr John Coole. He was educated at the Quakers' School, Friars, Bristol, and whilst still a youth joined the Royal Navy. When he retired from that branch of service, in 1877, he had a fine record of service in the Navy, in the "good old days" when fighting ships and living conditions were nothing like as comfortable as they are nowadays. In all, he put in 22 years, no fewer than twenty on foreign stations, and held the Abyssinian and long service medals. Settling in East Bristol, he served on the local authority there for seven or eight years. Then St. George was included in the Bristol boundaries, and one of the first councillors was John Coole. That was in 1867. He has been a member of the City Council without interruption from then to the time of his death, having been promoted Alderman in January 1901. Upon the division of the ward he was allocated the western portion. He has done good work on a number of committees. His knowledge of property in East Bristol, particularly of small houses, was extensive and particular. He was also made a justice of the peace. In politics he was a Liberal, and for several years held a prominent position in the Bristol Liberal Association. He celebrated his golden wedding anniversary in June last year.
28/10/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. George Rickards Browne
The Rev. George Rickards Browne, of the rectory, Iron Acton, Honorary Canon of Bristol Cathedral, who died on the 23rd August last, left gross estate of the value of £4,971 14s 9d, with net personalty £4,874 10s 2d.
10/11/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Duncan Matheson McPherson
Mr Duncan Matheson McPherson, of 44 Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol, retired African merchant, who died on the 6th August last, left a gross estate of the value of £22,957 15s 7d with net personalty £20,002 7s 10d.
16/11/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. G. Tedder
Death of Mr E. G. Tedder
The news of the sudden death of Mr E. G. Tedder, of Mill House, Westbury-on-Trym, will cause grief to a very large number of people. Mr Tedder died at five o'clock yesterday morning as a result of a seizure in his office on the previous evening. Until the Eastfeld quarries were closed the deceased acted as manager for the owner (Councillor J. Kennedy), and for many years he was registrar for births and deaths in the extensive area covered by the Westbury-on-Trym local district. He was a keen Unionist, and of late years was responsible for the local registration work in connection with the Coalition organisation. He was deeply interested in cricket generally, and in the Westbury club especially, for which he did good work. There was scarcely any local movement in which Mr Tedder did not take a prominent part, and as an "Old Boy" he was a member of the committee formed to erect a war memorial in the Boys' School - his son Herbert (Somerset Yeomanry) being, it is believed, the first Westbury lad to lose his life in the war. Until Westbury was incorporated in the city in 1904, the deceased was a member of the local Parish Council. As an amateur performer he gave delight to many crowded audiences, his last public performance being in the duet "Supposing" with Mr P. Forrest in the Peace celebrations in the Village Hall.
15/01/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut. A. H. Lane
Death of Lieut. A. H. Lane
Many citizens, and especially those who were associated with the 12 Glos., will hear with sincere regret of the death of Lieut. and Quarter Master A. H. Lane. He served his time in the 1st East Yorkshire Regiment, but on the out-break of war joined "Bristol's Own," and served with the battalion throughout, first as sergt- major and then commissioned as Lieut-Quarter Master. He was secretary of 'Bristol's Own Old Comrades' Association until last year, when he relinquished the post through ill-health. In November the deceased went to Winsley Sanatorium for trouble contracted through war service, and on Wednesday he visited Bristol and called upon several old friends. He seemed much better, but expired at his home, 11 Broad Street, the same night. He was one of the most popular men in the battalion during the war, and afterwards became equally beloved by all who met him. His comrades will greatly miss him. The funeral has been arranged to take place at Greenbank on Tuesday at two o'clock and his comrades have arranged a service at St. Nicholas' Church at one o'clock when it as hoped as many people as possible will show their respect by attending.
25/06/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Baker
Death of Mr Jas. Baker
Well-Known Author and Journalist
Unique Experiences
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Baker, the well-known author and journalist of 1 Goldney Road, Clifton. He recently went on an expedition to Bohemia, but a sudden illness caused him to return, and unfortunately it has proved fatal.
Mr James Baker, who was born in January, 1847, was educated by his father who was successively schoolmaster, secretary of Clifton College, and founder of the well-known publishing business in Clifton. Whilst associated with the firm, Mr James Baker launched out in journalistic work, and as a special correspondent wrote articles for newspapers and magazines. He travelled a great deal on the continent, visiting Greece, Russia and other countries. He made a special study of Bohemia, and was awarded the Great Silver Medal of Prague by the Senate for his literary work. He lectured in London and elsewhere on Egypt, Russia, and Palestine, and became an enthusiast on the importance of technical education. In 1889 he travelled in Tunis and Sicily, and studied technical and commercial education in Prussia, Poland, Galicia, and Bohemia and wrote for the Education Department a report which was published officially. He was in Georgia and Palestine in 1903; Bohemia, 1905; Spain, 1906-09; Bosnia, 1907; Bukovina, 1911; and was the guest of the City of Prague at the Palackv and Sokol Commemoration in 1912. Mr Baker was a successful author as well as journalist. He began in 1879 with Poems and Translations, and two years later he produced "Days Afoot and European Sketches." Some of his more important work include "John Westacott," 1886; "By the Western Sea," 1889; "Our Foreign Competitors," 1892; "Mark Tillotson," 1892; "A Forgotten Great Englishman," 1894; "Pictures From Bohemia," 1894; "The Gleaming Dawn," 1896; "The Cardinal's Page," 1898; "A Double Choice," 1901; "The Inseparables," 1905; "Austria - Her People and Their Homelands," 1912; "Reminiscent Gossip of Men and Matters," 1913.
In view of his wide and frequent travels and his numerous writings, it is not surprising that Mr Baker was honoured aboard as well as at home. He was a knight of the Imperial Order of Francis Joseph (Austria), 1908; F.R.G.S., F.R. Hist. Society, corresponding member of the Royal Academy of Arts, Madrid, 1911; British Secretary of the International Association of Journalists, 1906; a member of the Savage and Authors' Clubs, London, and of the University Club, Bristol; and of the Bristol Branch of the Institute of Journalists and of the Bristol and West of England Press Fund. He was a member of the Council of the Bristol Branch of the Colonial Institute, in whose affairs he took a keen interest.
A man of genial disposition, he was excellent company. He had a budget of most interesting and unique experiences that he had met with during his travels as a special correspondent to different capitals of the world for events of historic and international importance. Early in 1913 Mr Baker suffered a severe bereavement by the death of his son, Major Sidney Baker, aged 37, of the Gloucestershire Regiment. He had distinguished himself brilliantly in action, which ended in an order for withdrawal. As the officer in temporary command he was the last to leave the redoubt, and just as he was nearing safety he was hit by a bullet which killed him instantaneously. His son had shown much ability as a scholar, linguist, and lecturer. A biography of him by his father was his last work, and is now in the press. Only a few days ago we announced that Mr James Baker had recently returned from his expedition to Bohemia where in Prague he found intense propaganda being carried on by Vatican and German agents to belittle the Czechs and to create distrust with them and the British, this work vigorously invading our official circles. He was met most cordially by the President of the New Republic, M. Marsarvk, and by most of the officers of the State, and hoped to publish facts to counteract some of this evil, but the arduous journey developed an illness long threatening, which unfortunately has cost him his life. The funeral is arranged for Monday next, and there will be a service at Christ Church, Clifton, at 2 o'clock.
02/07/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. Vaughan Jenkins
We regret to announce the death of Mr Vaughan Jenkins, head of the firm of Curtis, Jenkins and Co., accountants, Bristol, who had been in a weak state of health for some time, and succumbed yesterday to heart trouble at the comparatively early age of 52 years. Mr Vaughan Jenkins, as he was general known, was associated with the firm of Curtis, Jenkins and Co., of which he became head on the death of his father, Mr F. A. Jenkins, about a year ago. He occupied a prominent position in his profession, and was highly respected in business circles. The firm were auditors to the Taff Vale Railway Company and a number of other important industrial concerns. Mr Vaughan Jenkins was a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and last year he was president of the Bristol Chartered Accountants' Institute. He was also a member of the Bristol Liberal Club and the Commercial Rooms. In his early life Mr Vaughan Jenkins was a member of Tyndale Chapel and later he became actively associated with Broad Plain Mission, as well as Highbury Chapel. The Broad Plain Men's Club was an object of his special care, and he was an enthusiastic supporter of the Adult School movement. After his removal some years ago to Home Lea, Bitten, he sought in various ways to promote local interest, and helped to found Oldland Village Club, besides which he conducted the local choral society with substantial success.
A man of charming personality and always eager to be helpful to others, he was popular wherever he went, and enjoyed the affectionate esteem of hosts of friends, who will sympathise deeply with the widow who was Miss Colmer of Bath and her two children.
23/07/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Meadhurst Stevens
Mr John Meadhurst Stevens, of 10, York Place, Clifton, Bristol, outfitter, who died on the 13th May last, left gross estate of the value of £12,590 1s 5d with net personalty £9,629.
28/08/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs E. J. Burt
A large circle of friends will regret the announcement of the death of Mrs Georgina Burt, wife of Mr E. J. Burt, J.P. The deceased lady, who died at 71, Cromwell Road, Montpelier, had had a long illness. Previously she had taken an active part in the parish church of St. Andrew (her husband. Mr E. J. Burt is vice-chairman of the Church Council), and also, more particularly, in the welfare of children. She was for some years secretary to the Aftercare Committee, of the Juvenile Advisory Council, and was appointed by the local education authority, visitor to the schools in the Mina Road and Baptist Mills district. Mrs Burt was also an energetic worker on behalf of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. She endeared herself to all with whom she came into contact, and great regret will be felt at her death.
The funeral is to take place on Monday next.
07/09/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. C. E. Dibble
Many citizens will learn with regret that Mr W. C. E. Dibble died at his residence Gala House, Fishponds Road, yesterday, following an operation. Deceased, who was 57 years old, was elected to a seat on the City Council for the Stapleton Ward, but he was best known for the great interest he had taken in the local fancier world. For a great many years he took the lead in this interesting hobby and was an expert on all show varieties of fur and feather. He was a specialist on Angora rabbits and was the appointed judge for the Fur and Feather Association for Bristol and the West of England. Among those with whom he associated as a fancier he was greatly esteemed, and in other circles he had gained the respect and good will of many citizens. He was for many years a well-known tradesman carrying on business in Broadmead.
09/09/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Robert Hayeroft Sprackett
Mr William Robert Hayeroft Sprackett, of 67, St Albans Road, Westbury Park, Bristol, retired chemist, formerly of 22 Logan Road, Bishopston, Bristol, who died on the 23rd March last, left gross estate of the value of £10,488 7s 6d with net personalty £2,713 17s 2d.
08/10/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred Edmund Hudd
The death is announced of Mr Alfred Edmund Hudd, of 108, Pembroke Road, Clifton. Mr Hudd was a very well-known gentleman and a F.S.A. A gentleman of considerable culture and many accomplishments, he was deeply interested in art and literature and was very highly esteemed by a large circle of friends. His death occurred suddenly yesterday at his residence.
19/10/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick Pither
The death has taken place of Mr Frederick Pither, of Chewton Keynsham, near Bristol. Mr Pither was in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company for a period extending over 56 years, and for many years occupied the important position of District Cattle Inspector, from which post he retired in July, 1913. He was much beloved by his late colleagues in the railway service for his upright and manly disposition. The funeral took place at Arno's Vale Cemetery yesterday afternoon.
26/10/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Walter Watts
Mr Walter Watts, of 16, Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, Bristol, solicitor, formerly of 11 Record Street, Ruthven, Co. Denbigh, who died on the 10th February last, left gross estate of the value of £10,774 11s, with net personalty £2,103 17s 8d.
28/10/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Frederick Brice Martin
Mr Frederick Brice Martin, of 4, Codrington Place, Clifton, Bristol, manufacturer's agent, who died on the 21st August last, left gross estate of the value of £21,620 19s 11d, with net personalty £20,541 17s 5d.
15/11/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Herbert Taylor
The funeral of the late Mr Herbert Taylor took place at the Canford Cemetery on Saturday. The deceased was partner with his brother, Mr Walter Taylor, in the firm of Messrs G. E. Taylor and Sons, leather merchants, of Baldwin Street and Colston Avenue, and had been actively associated with the business for upwards of 53 years. The business was foundered by his father, the late Mr George E. Taylor. The late Mr Taylor was connected during the whole of his life with Old King Street Wesleyan Church.
24/11/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Thomas Blackmore
Mr William Thomas Blackmore, of 263 Coronation Road, Bristol, retired licensed victualler, who died on the 30th September last, left gross estate of the value of £5,749 3s 1d with net personalty £1,256 4s 10d.
29/11/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Edwards
On Saturday afternoon the funeral took place of the late Mr Thomas Edwards, of Davey Street, Avonmouth. For 31 years the deceased had been in the employ of Messrs J. Robinson and Co., oil cake manufacturers, at their compound mills at Bristol and Avonmouth.
08/12/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. J. Bees
The death occurred suddenly. last night, of Mr E. J. Bees, boot manufacturer, of Leahurst, Kingswood. Mr Bees was at his factory in Moravian Road as usual yesterday, and in the evening he attended a meeting at the Y.M.C.A. hut, Kingswood. He was taken ill there and expired suddenly. He was a generous supporter of the Kingswood Y.M.C.A. He took much interest in the Kingswood Congregational Church, and was choirmaster there for many years. He was sole partner of the firm Messrs Bees and Potter, Kingswood, the other partner, Mr Potter, having retired from the business a year ago. He leaves a widow and two daughters.
22/12/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Samuel Morgan
The announcement of the death of Dr Samuel Morgan, of 15, Oakfield Road, Clifton, was read with regret yesterday by numerous friends. Dr Morgan, who was 88 years of age, was one of the most genial and successful of medical men in Bristol, as he was one of the most popular. It was after practising for short periods in Salisbury and Bath that he came to Bristol, where, as a specialist in homeopathy, he was soon in wide request. He built up a considerable practice, which he carried on for something like half a century. His health broke down about two years ago, when he practically retired from professional work, retaining only a few patients who, as an admiring friend put it, "would not let him go." He was the senior homeopathic doctor in Bristol, and his fame was widespread in this district owing to his remarkable success in unusually difficult cases. He was one of the founders of the Bristol Homeopathic Hospital, Brunswick Square, since removed to Cotham house, in connection with the gift of Mr Melville Wills in memory of his son, Captain Bruce Wills. Dr Morgan was closely associated with that institution, and worked for it unremittingly being, until a few years ago, chairman of the Board of Management. A member of the Congregational body, the doctor was actively identified with Pembroke Church, Clifton, where he filled the office of senior deacon, and he also served as chairman of the Bristol Congregational Union. He was pre-deceased by his wife and a son, the latter whom died in South Africa. Dr Morgan's funeral takes place to-day, and after a service at Pembroke, the body will be removed to Bath for interment.
31/05/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Giles
Death of Mr John Giles, Portbury
We regret to state that Mr John Giles, a well-known farmer and corn-merchant, of Portbury, died on Saturday morning after a protracted illness. Mr Giles, who was 66 years of age, was widely known and highly respected. He was a lifelong farmer in the Portbury district, and was held in high esteem by his many friends there. He was conscientious in his business dealings and exceedingly kindly in disposition. He was well-known and esteemed also, by merchants and dealers on the Bristol Corn Exchange. He was a good churchman and had been a churchwarden of the parish church for upwards of forty years. Mr Giles was a member of the Church School for a long period, and had been until recently, a member of the Parish Council. The funeral will take place at Portbury Church at three o'clock on Wednesday next.
13/05/1920
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Frank James Harris
Mr Frank James Harris, of 50, Broad Street, Bristol, and of 20, Blenheim Road, Redland, Bristol, of Messrs Barry and Harris, solicitors, who died on 12th March last, left gross estate of the value of £9,949 2s 2d, with net personalty £6,127 4s 10d.
01/01/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. H. Webb
The Late Mr E. H. Webb.
The death has taken place, at his residence, Portishead, of Mr E. H. Webb, who for upwards of a quarter of a century carried on business in Bedminster under the name of Bedminster Printing Works. Mr Webb was highly respected, and his death caused a shock to the large number who knew him. He was buried on Tuesday at Arno's Vale cemetery.
20/02/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Percy Clarke
Death of Mr Percy Clarke
We regret to announce the death of Mr Percy Clarke, a journalist long connected with this city. At one time Mr Clarke was one of the leading writers of the Bristol 'Mercury,' and after the cessation of that paper he contributed many special articles to a London journal. His work showed wide knowledge and considerable ability, and in his lighter articles his wit and humour were often displayed. For several years he had been engaged on the 'Bristol Guardian' and did a good deal of writing for that paper. Lately it became known that he was suffering from a malady from which there was little hope of recovery, but it was not thought that his life was in immediate danger. His condition rapidly became worse, and he passed away yesterday. He age was about 58.
19/01/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Albert Edward Tilling
Death of Mr A. E. Tilling
A Local Historian
A large number of Bristol people and others will learn with regret that Mr Albert Edward Tilling, Deputy Chief Librarian under the Bristol Corporation, died yesterday morning at his residence, Alfred Hill, Kingsdown. Rather more than two years ago Mr Tilling underwent a serious operation for cancer. Last year there was a reoccurrence of the trouble, and as the sight affected was in the liver, a second operation was deemed inadvisable. Mr Tilling has been an acute sufferer since last June, during which period he became gradually weaker. His condition had been regarded as critical for some weeks past, so that the end early yesterday morning was not unexpected. He had attained the age of 56 years.
Mr A. E. Tilling was a Bristolian, and cherished a profound affection for his native city, of which his father was a Freeman. Born in College Green around which so many literary associations cluster, Mr Tilling first became identified with the Bristol Public Libraries in 1879, when he took up a junior assistantship at one of the then few outposts - St. Philip's. Thence he was promoted to the quaint old Central Library in King Street - now evacuated - were he came under the inspiring guidance of the late Mr John Taylor. On the transference of the Museum Library to the city in 1895, Mr Tilling was there appointed sub-librarian, an office in which he continued for a decade when, on that library's amalgamation with the collection in Deanery Road, he was delegated to the supervision of the Fishponds branch. This was a temporary tenure, and Mr Tilling was soon recalled to the present Central Library. A conscientious and diligent student of library practice, Mr Tilling was able to snatch from routine duty sufficient time in which to engage in independent literary "excursions". Under the familiar 'nom-de-plume,' "Stanley Hutton," he has been a voluminous writer. Early efforts in verse, of which he was a tasteful exponent, gave place to ambitious work, and "Stanley Hutton" achieved his first distinctive success with his volume "Bristol and its Famous Associations," published by Mr Arrowsmith. This history, written from a fresh standpoint - that of purely personal - secured to him a prominent and abiding place in Bristol's literary annals. "Stanley Hutton's" next outstanding performance in authorship was the concise "History of Bath and Bristol" exquisitely illustrated in colour, and issued by B. and C. Black of London. But in the interval between the production of these books, "Stanley Hutton" was responsible for many instructive articles based on his knowledge of Bristol and its lore in the columns of the local press and also in the pages of high-class London weeklies. The signature of "Stanley Hutton" has figured frequently and acceptably in the 'Western Daily Press' and the 'Bristol Observer.' In fact he made his first appearance in print with a poem in the 'Bristol Observer' during the editorship of that paper by Mr Falconer King (now a member of the editorial staff of the 'Western Daily Press') and in recognition of that fact the name of Mr King appears jointly with that of another gentleman in the dedication of one of Mr Tilling's books. "Stanley Hutton's" studies of Bristol have been both wide and deep. Until quite lately he had been engaged on a new biography of Burke. Incidentally the artists whose historic pictures adorn he Bristol Council Chamber have been much indebted to his knowledge of Bristol's past for the historical fidelity of their canvases. He was also chosen as the adjudicator in a recent extensive essay competition on Bristol history. He was also well-known as a lecturer, his chief topic being the history of Bristol particularly in the 18th century, and as these lectures were always illustrated with lantern slides, they were always extremely popular.
02/01/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. H. Bateman Hope
Death of Mr W. H. Bateman Hope
We regret to record the death at a Barnstaple nursing home of Mr W. H. Bateman Hope, B.A., L.L.B., J.P., at the age of 54. The deceased was taken ill on Sunday last, and was removed to the nursing home, where, on Monday, he underwent an operation, following which he died early on Tuesday morning.
Mr Hope had retired from public life for some time, and had lived at his residence, Boode, Braunton, in North Devon. He was also the squire of Eastwood Manor, East Harptree, Bristol, and a prominent member of the Reform Club. Mr Hope was, from 1906 to 1910, the Liberal M.P. for North Somerset, and also filled the post of Recorder of Wells, 1907-15. He was the son of Mr W. C. Hope, of Rock House, Bath, and was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge. He was called to the Bar of the Inner Temple in 1890.
11/02/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter Watts
Death of Bristol Solicitor
We regret to announce the death of Mr Walter Watts, of Upton House, Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, which occurred in the early hours of yesterday morning following upon a brief illness which led to double pneumonia. The deceased was a well-known and respected solicitor practising at Somerset Chambers, Corn Street, Bristol, and until three weeks ago had enjoyed good health. He was an active Freemason, and was acting this year as secretary of the Keysham Lodge. Mr Watts was born in Bristol in 1856, and was educated at the Friends' School. He was articled to the Town Clerk of Ruthin, North Wales, and was admitted as solicitor in 1885, being also a member of the Law Society and of the Bristol Incorporated Law Society. In 1890 he was appointed Commissioner for Oaths. He had since practised in Bristol. Mr Watts leaves a widow and daughter, to whom the sympathy of a large circle of friends is extended.
10/03/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William John Jefferies
Death of Mr William J. Jefferies
Our obituary column this morning contains an announcement of the death, which occurred yesterday, at his residence, 20, Redland Grove, Bristol, of Mr William John Jefferies. The deceased gentleman was a late director of the firm of Messrs J. Jefferies and Sons Ltd., engineers and ship repairers, of Bristol and Avonmouth. Deceased was 63 years of age. The funeral will take place at Canford Cemetery on Saturday.
13/05/1920
Western Daily Press
Wills
Mr Richard Morgan Phillips
Mr Richard Morgan Phillips, of the Hydro College, Bristol, retired engineer, formerly of Reading, Berkshire, who died on 16th January last, left gross estate of the value of £11,450 11s 3d, with net personalty £11,279 6s 3d.
03/05/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. H. Stock
The Late Mr E. H. Stock
A memorial service to the late Mr E. H. Stock was held on Saturday at St. Stephen's Church. The deceased gentleman , who died at Torquay on Tuesday last, took a deep interest in civic affairs and held many important positions in the influential organisations of the city. He had been connected with St. Stephen's for a quarter of a century and was churchwarden from 1899-1901, and master of the Ancient Society of St. Stephen's Ringers in 1905.
16/03/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Martin Carlile
Death of Mr G. M. Carlile
We regret to announce the death of Mr George Martin Carlile, which occurred yesterday at 7, Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton. Mr Carlile was widely known in Bristol. In business life he was a leading member of the provision trade, being the first president of the Bristol and District Grocers' Association in the years 1891 and 1892. He succeeded the late Mr Samuel Shirley as president of the Bristol and District Grocers' Benevolent Society, in the work of which he took a deep and sympathetic interest, relinquishing his association with the society only at the recent annual meeting owing to his ill-health. He carried on business at 109, White Ladies Road. Mr Carlile was also a member of the Bristol Incorporated Chamber of Commerce and Shipping. Widely as he was known in business he was still better known as a prominent figure in the Baptist denomination. He was a deacon of Buckingham Chapel, Clifton, and had been an active supporter of the Baptist Union and hon. treasurer of the Bristol Auxiliary of the Baptist Missionary Society. But it was in connection with the Itinerant Society that he had devoted the chief part of his energies. He was chief superintendent and treasurer of this society for a very long period of years, and had only recently given up the treasurership, a position now filled by Alderman Swaish. In private life Mr Carlile was a man of unassuming disposition and was disinclined to take up public work. He was exceedingly well-informed and a man of great experience, his opinion carrying weight both in business life and other circles. In all questions of social reform he took a keen interest. His illness had extended for rather more than two years, and his decease took place in his 60th year. He leaves a widow, an only son, and two daughters, one of whom is married. The funeral will take place at Canford on Thursday afternoon.
18/05/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Denis H. Hurdon
Death of Mr Denis H. Hurdon.
The passing of Mr Denis H. Hurdon, on Sunday, has caused much regret among a very wide circle in Bristol. He was an unselfish worker for any good cause, and he was the initiator and moving spirit of the Bristol Roundabouts Association, which rendered invaluable aid at carnivals, fetes, and other outdoor functions. He was for some years by no means strong, but up to recently had seemed much better, and was making good as a traveller. He was a bright, cheery fellow, full of enthusiasm and energy, and he made hosts of friends who will mourn his loss. He was but 24. Much sympathy will be extended to his relatives. He was at one time a Rugby player, and took great interest in the Bristol Club.
11/01/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Robert Brown
Amid tokens of respect, the remains of Mr Robert Brown of Yew Tree House, Portbury, who died on Saturday last, were laid to rest in Portbury Churchyard yesterday. He was the senior partner of the firm Brown and Sons, seedsmen, 31, Bridge Street, Bristol. Although in his 87th year, he enjoyed good health until almost the last, and this enabled him to take a keen interest in local affairs. Whilst at Failand, where he formerly resided, he was an active member of the Long Ashton Board of Guardians for several years. Later he removed to Portbury, where he devoted his attention to the affairs of that neighbourhood, and was chairman of the Parish Council at the time of his decease. He was for many years a member of the Royal Agricultural Society, the British Dairy Farmers' Association, and other organisations; he had a wide knowledge of agricultural matters, and his advise was often sought and freely given.
04/02/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut. C. G. Rought
Death of A Noted Local Oarsman
A Victim of Hun Brutality
Lieut. C. G. Rought, a nephew of Alderman C. E. Gardener, of Bristol, has just died suddenly at Surbiton at the age of 34 years. A war prisoner in Germany from December, 1914, until last year, he suffered privations which undoubtedly undermined his health, and he succumbed to heart failure. From his schools days at Clifton, he has always been a keen Rugby player and oarsman. On the outbreak of war he enlisted in the Artists Rifles, and from that corps received a commission in the Queen's in December 1914; he was a prisoner in Germany for a long time, and was repatriated last November. Rought's first essay on the Thames was in 1906, for the Bristol Ariel R.C., in a regatta at Reading, and he joined the Thames R.C. in 1907. The following year was one of extraordinary successes. He was in winning senior fours at the Metropolitan, Kingston, Molesey, and Goring regattas, and in fours at Waiton. He also won his junior sculls at Marlow. From that year the successes, particularly in fours, were frequently repeated. In 1911 he and Bruce Logan (bow) had a memorable dead-heat in the Pairs with J. Beresford and A. Hamilton Cloutie. This was in the fastest time on record for pairs, 8 min 8 sec. In the Olympic regatta of 1912, Rought was in England's four in the final, but Germany had a good crew and they won, England's crew being unused to in-rigged fours with coxswains. At Amsterdam in 1908, his lucky year, he was in a winning English crew.
06/02/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry W. Tugwell
The death occurred at Crowe Hall, Bath yesterday, of Mr Henry W. Tugwell, aged 84. The deceased was for many years the director of the Old Bank, Bath, foundered by his forefathers, and carried on under the name of Tugwell, Brymer, and Clutterbuck until amalgamation with Cave's Bristol Bank. Since then there have been other amalgamations. Mr Tugwell was appointed to the magisterial bench in 1878, but never officiated. His father and grandfather were mayors of Bath, and for a short period as a young man Mr Tugwell sat on the City Council.
He was a younger brother of Prebendary Tugwell, for so long Rector of Bathwick. He leaves a widow and two daughters.
05/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Hill
The death occurred yesterday of Mr Thomas Hill, a well known timber merchant of this city. A week or so ago Mr Hill was laid up with influenza, which developed into pneumonia. Deceased was for many years a member of the Bristol Channel Timber Importers' Association, and he was associated over a long period with the activities at Broadmead Chapel. He was 63 years of age, and leaves two sons and two daughters. The funeral will take place on Monday, the first part of the service being at Broadmead, at 1.30.
06/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Second Lieut. Wilfrid George Lindrea
Second Lieut. Wilfrid George Lindrea, of Clevelands, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, of the 4th Battalion, Gloucestershire Regiment, a director of Messrs Lindrea and Co., Ltd., leather merchants, whose death occurred in active duty in France or Belgium on the 30th March last, left estate valued at £11,435 10s 4d.
06/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Burge
Mr James Burge, of 10, Burlington Road, Bristol, Assistant Overseer to the Bristol Corporation, who died on the 24th September last, left estate valued at £5,400 7s 5d.
17/04/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Livett Daniell
Mr John Livett Daniell, of 21, Hartington Park, Redland, Bristol, solicitor, aged 74, whose death occurred on the 14th February last, has left estate valued at £10,350 17s 10d.
11/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Matthew Priscott
The death was announced yesterday of a well-known resident of St. George, Mr Matthew Priscott, of 141, Beaufort Road. Mr Priscott some time ago represented St. George's East Ward on the Bristol Guardians. He took a warm interest in poor-law subjects, and also the poorer sections of his neighbours. He was in his 51st year. His third son, Mr W. H. Priscott, has for some time represented St. George's East Ward as a Guardian and is present chairman of the Board.
11/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Ayre Sharland
His many friends in Labour and Socialist circles will hear with regret of the death of Mr William Ayre Sharland, which took place on Saturday, at his residence, 46, Badminton Road, at the age of 67 years. Mr Sharland was one of the pioneers of Socialism in Bristol and an ardent worker in that movement all his life. He took no part which brought him prominence as a speaker, but confined his energies chiefly to music and its development amongst the people with whom he came in contact.
11/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Falconer Napier Abbot
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry Falconer Napier Abbot, elder son of Mr H. Napier Abbot, of 2, Beaufort Road, Clifton. He was only 33 years of age, and passed away Sunday morning, a victim to influenza and complications. Mr Falconer Abbot, as he was familiarly known, had been associated for some years with the business of Messrs J. S. Fry and Sons, and was a director of the company. From the first he showed a keen interest in the workpeople's welfare, and was actively concerned in schemes for their benefit, especially boys. The use of the County Ground for purposes of recreation was a project which received his hearty support. He was exceedingly popular among the staff and workpeople, by whom his early demise will be much regretted. In the early days of the war he volunteered for military service, but met with a serious accident whilst in the Army, and was obliged to return to civil life. Mr Falconer Abbot, who was unmarried, was well-known and esteemed in social as well as business circles, and he was a popular member in the Commercial Rooms. His only brother is a captain in the Army, at present serving in India.
27/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Richard Glover
First Pastor of Tyndale Chapel
Ideal Minister & Worthy Citizen
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. Richard Glover, D.D. (Edinburgh) and LL.D. (Bristol), who passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning at his residence, 15, Westfield Park, Clifton, at the age of 82 years. He had been in an enfeebled condition for some years, and for several weeks had not been able to leave his room. He was the first pastor of Tyndale Baptist Chapel, where he was regarded as the ideal minister, and won the affection of all with whom he came in contact. He retired in 1911, but occupied the pulpit occasionally until a few years ago. In March, 1916, Dr and Mrs Glover, on the occasion of their golden wedding anniversary, received a presentation from members of the church and congregation. In January, 1917, he underwent a rather serious operation, from which he recovered wonderfully well considering his advanced year. The bereaved family comprises, besides the widow, one son, Dr T. Reaveley Glover, of Cambridge University, and two daughters.
daughters.
31/03/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr F. G. Davis
Mr F. G. Davis, who until a week ago, was a member of the Bristol Board of Guardians, died on Saturday, at his residence, 208 Ashley Down Road. He was in his 82nd year, and was for many years associated with the work of Kingsland Road Congregational Church and Old King Street Baptist Chapel, holding in each case the treasurership. His connection with the Board of Guardians started in 1895, but he lost his seat in St. Philip's East three years later. In 1905 he was returned for Stapleton Ward, which he represented until he resigned a short time ago. He was a prominent Oddfellow.
03/04/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Rinder
The late Mr Samuel Rinder, who for many years was a well-known and popular figure in Bristol football and shooting circles, was buried at Greenbank Cemetery yesterday. Mr Rinder who died on Sunday at the age of 64, was connected with Eastville Rovers in the early amateur days, and became a director of the club, afterwards Bristol Rovers when it turned professional. He was responsible for introducing a number of promising players to Bristol, and took an active interest in the club until he had a seizure on the Eastville ground several years ago. He, with George Humphrey's, the Chairman of Bristol Rovers, was one of the best shots ever seen in this part of the country, and was a marksman of national repute.
30/04/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Bennett
In the death of Mr George Bennett at the advanced age of 83, Bedminster has lost one of its most trusted inhabitants. For many years he conducted the business of a baker in North Street, and was associated with the Hebron United Methodist Church for upwards of sixty years. As a lay preacher of more than ordinary power, he served a wide circle of churches in and around Bristol, and in the course of half a century must have travelled on foot thousands of miles to preach the Gospel.
08/05/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Arthur Joicey Abraham
Mr Arthur Joicey Abraham, of 2, Limerick Road, Redland, Bristol, master mariner of the Merchant Service, whose death occurred on the 6th March last, has left estate valued at £21,429 18s 8d.
19/05/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Staff-Sergt. A. Flock
The death caused by an accident of the late Staff-Sergt. Alfred Flock, removes one of the most popular members of "Bristol's Own." An old soldier with a good record of service, he joined the 12th Gloucesters at the outbreak of war in 1914. His services were particularly welcome to the Battalion as a musketry instructor, most of all the officers, N.C.O.'s and men passing through his hands. When the Battalion went to France, the late Sergeant Flock went with them as Armoury Sergeant and remained with the Battalion during their long service overseas. The funeral will take place to-day, leaving the late Sergeant's residence, Clift Road, Ashton Gate, at 3pm. A good muster of old 12th Gloucester men is anticipated.
28/05/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr W. R. T. Hawkins
We regret to announce the death of Dr W. R. T. Hawkins, of 85, Ashley Road. The deceased had been in ill-health for some considerable time, and gave up part of his practice at Christmas. Some three weeks ago he had a severe heart attack, from which he never completely recovered.
Dr Hawkins was a great lover of and authority on horses and dogs, and even after motor cars came into general use he preferred horses, of which he was the owner of some very valuable specimens, often driven in tandem. He leaves a widow and three children - a son and two daughters.
02/06/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Samuel Salter Gouldsmith
Mr Samuel Salter Gouldsmith, of 7, The Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, senior member of the firm of Messrs Gouldsmith and Gribble, solicitors, whose death occurred on the 7th March last, left estate valued at £22,668 3s 7d.
05/06/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Lock
Clifton has lost a well-known and much respected tradesman by the death of Mr Thomas Lock, senior partner of the firm of Messrs Lock and Barrell, Alma Road, who passed away yesterday. Mr Lock had carried on business in Alma Road for 36 years, and was one of the first to join the Grocers' Association, of whose committee he was a valued member. He was a Churchman, and attended St. Mary's, Tyndall's Park. He has left a widow with one son and two daughters.
17/06/1919
The Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Russell Harvey
We regret to announce that Mr J. G. Russell Harvey died yesterday at his residence, Aldmore, Leigh Woods, at the age of 56 years. The eldest son of the late John Harvey, he was associated with the firm of John Harvey and Sons, and for some years had been its chairman. The firm has carried on business in Denmark Street for generations, and is one of the most noted in the wine trade of the country.
09/06/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Barclay J. Baron
It is with the deepest regret we have to announce the death of Sir Barclay J. Baron which occurred early on Saturday morning. A few weeks ago Sir Barclay had the misfortune to slip in his garden at White Ladies Road and break a rib, but until recently he was making good progress to recovery. The serious complications that set in last week were known to but a few, so that the news of his death created a most painful surprise in the city on Saturday morning.
Sir Barclay Josiah Baron was one of Bristol's foremost citizens. It was not until 1913 that he became actively associated in municipal affairs. In November 1913, he was elected one of the representatives of the South Clifton Ward, and at once threw himself whole-heartedly into the business of the Corporation. He quickly became one of the most valued of members, and on the retirement of Alderman J. Swaish he was elected Lord Mayor of the city, serving her two years - 1915-1916 and 1916-1917 - with such distinction that in January, 1918, he received a knighthood. Sir Barclay gave his fellow citizens a splendid lead in effort for the common cause during the darkest days of the war. He was one of the first to come forward when there was a great need for recruiting zeal, and all through his term of office he worked tremendously hard, both in furthering recruiting and in caring for the wounded who were pouring into the city from the battlefields of France. He was a constant visitor to the hospitals, and for a long period met every ambulance train that came into the city with wounded soldiers. Thousands of soldiers now scattered over the country and Empire will gratefully recall his personal interest in their welfare and the memorable Christmas and other gatherings in which, as chairman of the Inquiry Bureau, he took the lead. His interest in the soldiers was also shown by his visits to Salisbury Plain, and few who were present at Larkhill on the eve of the departure for the front of a Bristol Territorial Battalion will forget his stimulating address. He was founder of the Gallipoli celebration, the first gathering of survivors of this historic campaign taking place at the Mansion House, a celebration which has been kept up on the day of the landing during succeeding years. During his term of office Dr Barclay Baron had the honour of receiving the King and Queen, who came to this city and held an investiture on the Downs.
On his retirement from the Lord Mayoralty, the City Council adopted by acclamation a resolution heartily thanking him "for the manner in which he had during his second term of office carried out the duties of Lord Mayor, for the skilful and dignified way in which he had presided over the deliberations of the Council, for the ability he had ever displayed in putting forward the interests of the city when important questions affecting the welfare of the citizens had been under consideration, for the readiness shown by him in associating himself with every movement rendered necessary by the circumstances of the war, and for his generous hospitality."
Continued in Well Doing
After the signing of the armistice, Sir Barclay had devoted himself unselfishly to the cause of the demobilized soldier, and as chairman of the Labour Advisory Committee worked increasingly to help in solving a very difficult and deplorable problem. His sympathy with the men who had fought and on returning to civil life could not find a job was unbounded, and that the problem locally is still unsolved is certainly not due to the lack of endeavour by the Advisory Committee. Sir Barclay was held in high esteem by representatives of Labour, and not long ago he was called upon to act as arbitrator in a very important matter affecting two trade unions.
The deceased knight was a native of Devonshire, but he spent the major part of his life in this city, where he gained considerable eminence in the medical profession. He studied for that profession at Edinburgh University where he was the first graduate of his year and won the Ertles Scholarship in 1881. He also secured the prize for surgery and the medals for natural history. He passed all his examinations with distinction and held the degree of M.B. and C.M. After leaving the University he continued his studies in Bristol, Strasbourg and Vienna. It was in 1883 that Sir Barclay came to Bristol and commenced to practise, and a year later he founded the department for the treatment of the nose and throat at the General Hospital which he directed for 18 years. Then owing to the increase in his private practice he resigned the position, and was appointed one of the consulting physicians. He was president of the Bristol branch of the Medical Association, and was associated with many other societies in Bristol, having occupied the presidential chair of the Caledonian Society and the Society of Devonians in Bristol.
Art and Drama
The late Sir Barclay Baron was a keen patron of art and drama. He took a leading part in forming the Bristol Playgoers' Club, of which he became chairman. In his capacity as specialist in throat and ear affections Sir Barclay was a great friend to many theatrical and music hall artists visiting this city, to whom he gave the benefit of his professional skill readily and freely.
In pre-war times Sir Barclay Baron was a regular subscriber to the Bristol and West of England Press Fund, and generally attended its annual banquet. A staunch Conservative, he was a member of the Constitutional Club, as well as of various political organisations. He was a keen supporter of educational effort.
A man of genial and cheerful disposition, well read and widely experienced Sir Barclay Baron was excellent company, and was heartily welcomed alike in civic and social circles. There was no more popular member of the Constitutional Club or of the Commercial Rooms, and he exercised considerable influences in the City, being always ready, by act or word, to help a good cause. He was about sixty-five years of age, and a man of remarkable vitality.
With Lady Baron and her son and three daughters, the deepest sympathy will be felt. The public life of Bristol is much the poorer for the passing of Sir Barclay Baron, and throughout the city his lose will be keenly felt.
21/01/1888
Bristol Times and Mirror
Obituary
Mr William Henry Miles
We regret to announce the death of Mr. William Henry Miles, of Ham Green, Leigh, a partner in the firm of Miles, Cave, Baillie, and Co., bankers of this city. So late as Saturday, in 7th instant, Mr. Miles was at the bank in Corn-Street, when he complained of suffering from a severe cold. This subsequently turned into pleurisy, and developed into inflammation of the lungs, from which unhappily the patient was unable to rally. The deceased gentleman was the second son of the late Sir William Miles, of Leigh Court, by Catherine, daughter of Mr. John Gordon, and was born in 1830. His father for many years represented East Somerset in Parliament, and was, in recognition of his political consistency and genuine worth, created a baronet in 1859, Earl Derby at the time being Prime Minister. Mr W. H. Miles filled the office of High Sheriff for the city and county of Bristol in 1866-7, and for a period of nearly twenty years - from 1868 to 1886 - he sat in the Town Council as one of the representatives of the Central Ward of the city. In 1874 he served as president of the Dolphin Society, when he succeeded in collecting £1121 16s 1d., a sum which up to that time had only been surpassed on one occasion. He received his education at Eton and Balliol College Oxford, and at the latter place, in 1851, he took his B.A. degree. In 1862 he married Mary Frances, only daughter of the Rev. John Kynaston Charleton, formerly vicar of Elberton, Gloucestershire. The deceased gentleman took an active part in some local matters, and at the time of his death was chairman of the Ashton Vale Iron Company, and also chairman of the Bristol and West of England Canadian Land Mortgage Company, and vice-chairman of the Bristol Royal Infirmary. He was interested too, in local works of a philanthropic character, being treasurer, amongst other societies, of the Nurses' Training Institution and Home, in Richmond-terrace, Clifton. Mr Miles was long connected with the North Somerset Yeomanry, of which he was formerly captain; and he also acted for many years as Justice of the Peace for the same county. Mr Miles, who, we need hardly say, was, like all the members of his family, a staunch Conservative in politics, took an active part in our local Parliamentary contests, and was earnestly attached to the Established Church, up to the time of his death acting as treasurer to the fund for re-establishing the Bristol Bishopric. The loss occasioned by the death of this respected gentleman will be very severely felt in his own immediate neighbourhood. Naturally of a benevolent disposition, he, without ostentation, largely assisted his poorer neighbours, many of whom, not only in our own city, but especially in the parishes of Pill and St. George, have lost in him a warm-hearted and generous friend. Mr Miles suffered unfortunately from deafness, which gave the impression to those to whom he was not intimately known that he was somewhat of a reserved nature. But those who were intimate with him knew him to be one of the most genial and kind-hearted of men; and it is not too much to say that he was deeply beloved by his own family and by a large and appreciative circle of friends. His unexpected death has cast a gloom, not only over the whole parish of Leigh, but also in the city with which he and his family have been so long and honourably associated.
19/12/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Wills
We regret to announce the death of Mr George Wills, J.P., last evening, at his residence, 3, Worcester Villas, College Road, Clifton. He had been suffering from heart disease for many years, but had taken great care of himself. During the last few days he was slightly indisposed, through a cold, but there seemed to be no cause for alarm. He sat on the bench at the police court on Saturday, and on Sunday attended service at the Cathedral. His physician was Dr John Beddoe, who happened to be visiting a patient at Mr Will's residence, and had his attention directed to the deceased, who felt unwell. Dr Beddoe ordered him to remain in the upper part of the house, and Mr Wills followed the direction of his medical advisor, but feeling better on Monday came downstairs. Yesterday Dr Beddoe saw him again, and ordered that he should remain in an upper apartment. At middle day he was in cheerful spirits, and up to five o'clock there seemed to be no fear of any fatal result, but soon after that hour he was seized with spasms of the heart, and expired. Dr Beddoe was immediately sent for, and went promptly, but before he reached the house Mr Wills was dead. The deceased gentleman was in his seventy-sixth year, and has left five daughters, one of whom is married and resides in London; another, married, resides in Birmingham; a third is the widow of Captain Caesar Hawkins, who had commanded the Daedalus and died a few months ago, being buried at Kelston near Bath. There are two daughters who reside at Worcester Villas. Mr Wills was considerably affected at the death of Captain Hawkins, who was married to Miss Wills only a few months. The brother of the deceased is Mr Samuel Wills, of the Castle Sugar Refinery. Mr George Wills was formerly in business in Bridge Street as a wine merchant, and he took great interest in the trade of the city as long as he remained a member of the Town Council, serving on some of the most important committees. When the redistribution of seats took place Mr Wills, who had been member for Bristol ward from 1866, was transferred in October, 1880, to St Philip's North, which he represented till his term expired in 1882. He was long closely identified with the Liberal Party and acted in the capacity as treasurer to the Liberal Registration Association, first when the offices were in Tailors' Court, Broad Street, and afterwards on the association removing its headquarters to Bridge Street. When the party became divided upon the Irish question Mr Wills joined the ranks of the Unionists. As a member of the Board of Charity Trustees he evinced considerable interest in the Grammar school, and from the time of his election as a trustee in 1875, he was constant in his attendance at the distribution of prizes. He was a great friend of Dr Caldicott, and after the reverend gentleman left Bristol the friendship continued, so that upon occasions when Dr Caldicott visited this city he invariably stayed at the residence of Mr Wills. Of refined tastes, the deceased was much interested in archaeology, and especially in the preservation of old buildings. He took an active part in endeavouring to preserve the fine Perpendicular archway at the entrance of Guard House Passage, Wine Street; but the Council having in 1880 given its consent to the closing of the passage, the owner of the adjoining property having offered to open a more convenient thoroughfare, the arch was removed and re-erected by Mr Henry Stevens of Bishopston. A more important work in which Mr Wills was interested was the endeavour to retain the tower of St Werburgh's Church in Corn Street, after the main portion of the structure was removed to Mina Road. He convened a meeting, at which views of the tower apart from the rest of the structure were shown, the base being pierced to allow of foot passengers going through. The Council at one sitting resolved to preserve the tower, but afterwards reversed its decision, and again rescinded the latter vote, on the antiquaries offering to contribute upwards of £1000, the estimated value of the site. Ultimately, however, the negotiations became complicated, and the tower was taken down, much to the regret of Mr Wills, who delighted to point out the effect, when viewed from the upper level, of the many church towers in the centre of the city. In 1867 Mr Wills was president of the Anchor Society, and was appointed a magistrate in 1871.
22/12/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Canning
We had within the last few days to announce the death of a citizen who occupied a prominent position, and we have now to regret the decease of another gentleman, who, for many years took a leading part in local affairs. Yesterday morning Mr Thomas Canning, J.P., died at his residence, Cran Hill, Weston, near Bath. Mr Canning, who was 73 years of age, went to reside near Bath some six or seven years ago, when he left Dorsetshire. He apparently enjoyed good health till a fortnight since. His condition had become so serious on Saturday that the local medical gentlemen, Dr. McDermott and Mr H. W. Freeman (Mayor of Bath), determined to summon Sir Andrew Clark, and that eminent physician arrived on Sunday, but gave no hopes of recovery. Mr Canning was a member of an old Wiltshire family, and for some generations they had been settled near Devizes. He came to Bristol when a young man, and through the introduction of Mr Thomas Fuidge, with whom he was connected by marriage (Mr Canning and Mr Fuidge having married sisters), he became acquainted with Mr James Ford, and he ultimately entered into a partnership which lasted until he left Bristol, about twelve years ago. The business aptitude of Mr Canning, his genial disposition, and courteous manners rendered him well fitted for public life, and in 1852 he was elected a member of Bristol Ward for the Town Council, which position he retained until 1876. In 1863 he was appointed a magistrate for the city, and was mayor for Bristol in 1870-71. During his mayoralty he presented the Corporation, for the collection of pictures at the Mansion House, with a portrait of the late Mr. R .H. Davis MP. Among other undertakings in which he was interested was the Portishead Dock, to which he subscribed £2000. In 1872 he was President of the Dolphin Society, and the collection that year amounted to £1138, being the largest sum then received in one year for the charity. He became a member of the Board of Charity Trustees in 1865. When he ceased to be connected with Mr Ford in business, he went to reside at Piddletrenthide, near Blandford, Dorset, and was appointed a justice of the peace for the county. He ,however, ceased to reside in Dorsetshire on account of his wife's health, and seven years ago removed to Weston, near Bath. At the time of his death he was besides being a member of the Bristol Charity Trustees, a Governor of Christ's Hospital, London. Mr Canning was a staunch Conservative, and at one time took an active interesting local parliamentary elections. He was a member of the Carlton Club, London, in addition to other similar organisations. He was an enthusiastic sportsman, having been a good shot and capital rider, was well-known with the Badminton hounds, and until a year or so ago he hunted three days a week. When the mastership of the Avon Vale Harriers became vacant recently he was asked to accept the post, but declined on account of increasing years. He took much pleasure in horticulture, and at Westbury-on-Trym successfully reared some magnificent floral specimens, among them very fine azaleas which had scarcely their equal in England. When shown at the Crystal Palace they surpassed all the other collections of plants of the same description. These azaleas were frequently exhibited at the shows held in the Zoological Gardens, Clifton, and when Mr Canning left Westbury-on-Trym, they passed into the possession of Mr W. Proctor Baker, who transferred them to Broomwell House, Brislington. Mr Canning, whose wife survives him, had no children but he leaves several nephews and nieces, some of whom reside in Bristol. The funeral will take place at Locksbrook Cemetery, Weston, on Monday afternoon.
06/08/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Somerton
Amongst the obituary notices in another part of the paper will be found one referring to the death of Mr Charles Somerton, of Norman Villa, Canynge Road. Mr Somerton was an old Bristol citizen, and though his quiet, unobtrusive habits prevented him from being so well known as some, his name had been a familiar one for the last generation in Bristol, and a large circle of those who knew him intimately or by reputation will sincerely mourn his decease. He was the son of Mr William H. Somerton, and was born in Bristol. He was educated at Bishop's College, in the neighbourhood of the present Blind Asylum, and afterwards studied at the University College, London, and took his B.A. degree about 1845. His father was proprietor of the Bristol Mercury, and in 1859 his sons Charles and George succeeded him. A little later the Daily Post was published, and, in conjunction with the older paper, was carried on by the two gentlemen till 1883, when both brothers retired from business life. Mr Charles Somerton was a firm Liberal, but declined all requests which would have lead him into a public career. For over a year he has been suffering from an internal ailment, and, at the age of 64, died early yesterday morning. He leaves a widow, but no children. By his kindheartedness and sympathetic nature, Mr Somerton made in private life many warm friendships, and his death will cause deep regret. The funeral will take place at Westbury-on-Trym.
08/05/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John W. Dodd
It is with deep regret we announce the death of Mr John W. Dod, whose name is so familiar to all classes of citizens of account of his munificence to religious and charitable objects, and especially to the fund for the completion of the western towers of the Bristol Cathedral, to which he contributed about £7000. The state of Mr Dod's health had of late occasioned great anxiety to his friends. His medical advisor, Mr Hancocke Wathen, and Dr Shingleton Smith, who had seen him in consultation at various times, advised that Mr Lennox Browne, of London, should be asked to see Mr Dod, which he did on Saturday, when he corroborated the grave opinion already formed of Mr Dod's condition. During Saturday night the symptoms became alarming, and on Sunday Mr Dod's condition was so critical that tracheotomy had to be performed. It afforded temporary relief to the patient, but he gradually sank, and death occurred about quarter to twelve o'clock last night.
Mr Dod who was 67 years of age, had for many years been connected with the local corn trade, being a partner with Mr. W. K. Wait. He was held in high esteem in commercial circles, and the announcement of his death will be read with sincere regret. Among his many acts of unostentatious liberality was a contribution of £1000 to the Royal Infirmary, at a time when the funds of that institution were in great need of assistance, and he also subscribed £100 to the fund for erecting a jubilee statue of the Queen.
08/05/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Samuel Hebditch
Information has been received in Bristol of the death, on Saturday morning of the Rev. Samuel Hebditch, who for very many years was closely associated with the progress of Congregationalism in this locality. Mr Hebditch was minister of the church which ultimately built Arley Chapel, and in carrying the erection of that place of worship to completion he was largely instrumental. The late Mr Joseph Foster was also closely identified with the matter. The first sermon in the chapel was preached on the 20th July, 1855, and for about seventeen years after that date Mr Hebditch continued his ministrations there, and by his high personal qualities won the respect of a very large circle of friends. Receiving an invitation to become pastor of Clapton Park Chapel, the rev. gentleman left Alley for the new sphere. After a time the health of his son gave cause for serious anxiety, and Australia being recommended as a suitable climate for the invalid Mr Hebditch obtained leave of absence from his church for a couple of years, and going to the Antipodes, took charge of the Collins Street Congregational Church, an important chapel in Melbourne. Eventually Mr Hebditch decided to take up his residence permanently in Australia, the health of his son being no doubt being an important consideration influencing his decision. He left this country and became settled as minister of a chapel at North Adelaide, South Australia. He son died subsequently to this, and news was received a week ago that Mr Hebditch himself was seriously ill. On Sunday night came the tidings of his death, having occurred at nine o'clock on the previous morning. Mrs Hebditch and one daughter survive him. At Alley Mr Hebditch was succeeded by the Rev. J. Comper Grey, whose place was taken by the Rev. S. J. Whitmee, the present minister. Mr Hebditch, though long absent from Bristol, was by no means forgotten, and his death will occasion regret.
06/04/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Cruger Miles
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry Cruger William Miles, which took place yesterday morning at Penpole House. The deceased gentleman had for some months been unwell, and was attended by Mr Ormerod, surgeon, of Westbury-on-Trym. Mr Cruger Miles, like his brother, Mr John William Miles, had never been married, and they both resided with their sister, Miss Clara miles, at Penpole House. The deceased was, we believe, the youngest son of Mr Philip John Miles, whose eldest son was Sir William Miles. On the death of the father, Sir William, who had not been created a baronet, resided at Leigh Court; and Mrs Miles, who was his step-mother, lived at Kingsweston with her children, the sons being Philip Skynner, John William, Robert, Edward, George Frederick, and Henry Cruger. After her decease Mr John William, Mr Henry Cruger, and Miss Miles went to live at Penpole House, Mr Philip Skynner remaining at Kingsweston. Mr Cruger Miles, unobtrusive and retiring in disposition, rarely took an active part in public affairs, but he was High Sheriff of Bristol in 1866, during the mayoralty of Mr William Naish. He was a prominent member of the Society of Merchant Venturers, and took great interest in the schools which were established by the guild. His affability caused him to be surrounded by friends, and beyond this immediate circle his company was much sought after, and he was ready to assist any movement in which his aid was sought. Many years ago, on the occasion of an agricultural show in connection with the Berkeley and Thornbury Society, he was requested to preside at the dinner, and, in allusion to the position, said jocularly that they had in him a strange chairman for an agricultural gathering, as he was not a landowner. He was an ardent horticulturist, and specimens from his gardens and conservatories frequently gained awards at horticultural exhibitions, and this week his gardener carried away many prizes at the Rifle Drill Hall. Field sports found in him a warm supporter, and he was an admirer of horse racing, so that it was no wonder when the Bristol races were started at Knowle he should accept the office of chairman of the company. In that capacity he received his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales when he attended the first meeting, and on the third day of the races he was honoured by the Prince taking tea at the offices of the firm in Queen Square. In his business relations the deceased gentleman paid considerable attention to the operations at the Old Market Street Sugar Refinery, he being a member of the company, and as long as his health permitted he paid frequent visits to the premises. His surviving brothers are Mr Charles Miles, of Malesbury, and Mr George Frederick Miles, who lives near Abergavenny.
06/04/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Alexander
We regret to announce the death of Mr Samuel Alexander, member of the well known firm of Alexander, Daniel, Selfe, and Co., which occurred yesterday morning at his residence, Avondale Lodge, College Road. The deceased gentleman, who was within two months of his 74th birthday, had been in ill-health for some time, and had been attended by Dr Fox and Mr Lansdowne. For more than twelve months he had not taken any active part in the business of the firm, with which he had been connected for close upon sixty years. The business, it may be mentioned, was founded by Mr Alexander's grandfather, Mr John Alexander, and on the death of that gentleman it was continued by deceased's father, Samuel Alexander, and the deceased's connection with it commenced in 1828. Mr Alexander was a Conservative in politics, and though he never took any active part in public matters he was well known and respected in the city, and probably there were few men who possess a keener insight into business matters. He was frequently called upon to take part in arbitration cases. Deceased leaves a widow, and his nephew, Captain Charles Alexander, is a member of the firm.
14/03/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr L. A. Goodeve
We regret to have to announce the death, at a comparatively early age, of Mr L. A. Goodeve, a member of the Western Circuit, and one who has not only occupied important positions connected with the legal profession, but has contributed several valuable works to the law library of the country. Mr Goodeve was the son of Mr Joseph Goodeve, of the Inner Temple and Lincoln's Inn, a well-known Chancery barrister, and a nephew of Dr Goodeve. He was born on January 11th, 1841, and was from 1853 to 1859 at school at Westminster, being captain of the school in the latter part of the period. Then he became Junior Student at Christ Church, Oxford. In 1862 he took the B.A. degree, and in June, 1865, was called to the Bar by the Middle Temple; he joined the Home Circuit, but in November of the same year was admitted Advocate of the High Court of Calcutta. While in practice their he edited the Government law reports from 1868 to 1873; was Professor of Law and Jurisprudence at the Presidency College, Calcutta. in 1871, and Clerk of the Crown for the September Criminal Sessions in 1872. In addition to the duties of these positions, he from 1871 to 1873 was examiner for law degrees at Calcutta University, and in the two latter years examiner of pleaders, &c., for the Government of Bengal, in both the legislative and judicial departments. In December 1873 he left India, and, determining to devote his attention to English practice, joined the Western Circuit in 1874. His opinion on legal matters was highly valued, and his services were frequently retained in cases which presented difficult legal points. During 1878 and the two following years Mr Goodeve was lecturer on law at the Bristol University College, and on several occasions since his residence in Bristol he has acted as the deputy for the judge in the Bristol and district county courts. In addition to the editorial work in connection with the Government law reports already alluded to, he edited the Indian Jurist at Calcutta from 1866 to 1868. His energy even in such a climate as that of Calcutta was not exhausted by the onerous positions he there filled, for in 1871 he published a new edition of "The Law of Evidence as administered in England and applied to India," and the next year issued a supplement to the "Law of Evidence -India Evidence Act, 1872." After his association with the Western Circuit he continued writing, and has given to the world several books evincing much research and legal knowledge. In 1877 he published "Railway Passengers and Railway Companies: their Rights, duties, and Liabilities," to which in 1880 he added an appendix with appenda to date. A second edition of this work was called for in 1885. "The Modern Law of Real Property," which he published in 1883, was made the text book at Oxford and Cambridge and in bar examinations. Not long after the passing of Mr Chamberlain's bill in 1883 Mr Goodeve wrote, "An exposition of the new law of bankruptcy," and only last year became the author of a treatise on the modern law of real property. For the last month he has been seriously ill, and has been attended by Drs Greig Smith and Shingleton Smith, with Drs Lawson Tait and Boyes Smith of Netley, in consultation. He, however, gradually became weaker, and died at half-past five yesterday afternoon. Outside of the legal profession the deceased gentleman had a large circle of friends, and deep sympathy will be widely felt with Mrs Goodeve and the five children who survive him.
04/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Grierson
Probate has been granted of the will (dated 28th August, 1887) of the late Mr James Grierson, of Holland Villas Road, Kensington, who died at Bridge House, Marlow, on the 7th October last, aged 50 years, and was general manager of the Great Western Railway. The testator bequeaths to his wife, Mrs Margaret Emily Grierson, £5000, his plate, pictures, furniture, and household effects; the use and enjoyment, for so long as she chooses to reside there, of his house in the Holland Villas Road, and the income for her life of the residue of his estate, real and personal, which, subject to her live interest, he devises and bequeaths in trust, in equal shares, for all his children who, being sons, shall attain the age of 21 years, or, being daughters attain that age or marry previously, but with special provision that his younger children shall enjoy the same educational advantages as the others have had. The value of the personal estate has been declared at £90,229 8s 7d by the executors, Mrs Margaret Emily Grierson, the relict; William Clarke, C.E., of 45 Parliament Street; and Robert Rogers Nelson, of Paddington Station.
06/06/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Philip Miles
We regret to announce the death of Sir Philip John William Miles, of Leigh Court, who expired last night at his London residence, after a few hours' illness, in his 63rd year. The deceased baronet was the son of Sir William Miles, of Leigh Court, and was born September 2nd 1825. He was educated at Eton, and subsequently at Trinity College, Cambridge. He afterwards became lieutenant in the 17th Lancers. As a magistrate for Somerset he sat on the Long Ashton bench; he was also a deputy lieutenant for the county. The family of Miles had been for a long time closely connected with the affairs of Bristol, and several members served the office of High Sheriff, the deceased baronet in 1853, when Sir John George Shaw was Mayor, his uncle Mr Cruger Miles in 1864, and his brother Mr William Henry Miles in 1866. In 1879 Sir Philip was President of the Dolphin Society, his brother Mr W. H. Miles having been president in 1874. When vacancies were caused in the parliamentary representation of East Somerset, Sir Philip and Lord Brooke were elected, and the former held his seat until 1885 , when he did not seek re-election. As a member Sir Philip won much popularity among his constituents. Like others of his family, he was a staunch Conservative, and he took much interest in agricultural matters, frequently attending meetings and dinners in different parts of the division. In 1848 he married Frances Elizabeth, daughter of Sir David Roche. Their children who survive are Alice Catherine, who married in 1870, Mr George Duppa; Edith Clare who married in 1875, Mr C. W. Mansel Lewis; and Mabel Constance, who married, in 1884, Mr C. Gausseu. Sir Philip's seat, Leigh Court, is one of the most charming mansions in the neighbourhood, of Bristol, and occasionally the house and grounds have been thrown open on the occasion of entertainments given for charitable objects. In December, 1881, Lady Miles organised a concert in aid of the East End Hospital for Children, and the great hall was crowded. Sir Philip moved about among the company, setting all at their ease, and seemed as delighted at the pleasure experienced by the company as they were in inspecting the art treasures and listening to the well selected programme, taken part in by well-distinguished amateurs and professionals. A more important occasion which brought Leigh Court prominently before the public was the visit of the Prince of Wales, who arrived on the 28th January, 1884. In accordance with the desire of His Royal Highness, there was no public reception, but in the evening of the following day, the Prince attended a concert at Colston Hall given by Sir Philip and Lady Miles in aid of the funds of Bristol Infirmary and the General Hospital. Though the attendance was not so large as had been anticipated, £110 was handed over to the charities, and Lady Miles was enabled to redeem a promise which she had made three years before to get up a performance in aid of the local medical institutions. Sir Philip entertained the Prince on the days of his visit by providing some shooting parties, and the royal guest departed from Leigh Court on the 31st January. Sir Philip and Lady Miles spent a great deal of time in London, their town house being 75, Cornwall Gardens. Death has of late been busy with the members of the Miles family, as not many months ago Sir Philip's younger brother, Mr William Henry Miles, of Ham Green, died after a short illness, and more recently his uncle, Mr Cruger Miles, expired at Penpole House. Sir Philip was the second baronet, his father Mr William Miles, having had a baronetcy conferred upon him in 1859 for his public services, especially as chairman of Somerset Quarter Sessions. He was the chief partner in the large private banking company, which carried on its operations in Corn Street. Sir Philip took no part in the affairs of the bank, though the younger brother, Mr William Henry, was an active partner. He was patron of the living of Walton with Weston-in-Gordano.
16/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Henry Miles
We regret to announce the death of Mr William Henry Miles, of Ham Green, near Pill, the sad event having taken place last evening. The deceased gentleman was a brother of Sir Philip Miles, and had for many years been connected with the important banking establishments in Corn Street, at first with the firm which carried on business at the premises now occupied by Messrs Alexander, Daniel, Selfe, and Co., and afterwards when the firm united with the partners of what is generally known as the "Old Bank". Mr Miles took an active share in the management, and as late as Tuesday last he was at the banking house, and appeared to be in his customary health.
It is supposed that he caught cold while driving home to Ham Green, and an attack of pleurisy set in which ultimately proved fatal. Although the deceased did not take so prominent a part in public matters as many leading citizens, he rendered good service through his connection with several local institutions. He was one of the vice-presidents of the royal Infirmary, of which Mr C. D. Cave one of his partners, is president and treasurer. He also felt a warm attachment to the Nurses' Training Institution and Home on Richmond Terrace. In the neighbourhood of Ham Green and Pill he was invariably energetic with respect to everything that tended to the welfare of the inhabitants, and his loss is certain to be long felt by the poor of that district. In conjunction with Mrs Miles he manifested considerable interest in whatever concerned the churches at Pill and St. George, and a few months ago two beautiful stained glass windows were erected in the former church by Mr and Mrs Miles as a memorial to their daughter. The deceased was a Conservative, and represented for many years the Central Ward in the Town Council. In 1874 he was President of the Dolphin Society, and, as proof of his popularity, it may be stated, with one exception, the amount of his collection was the largest that had till then been obtained at the dinners of that society.
11/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Tanner
The Late Mr William Tanner, of Frenchay, Winterbourne, Gloucestershire, who died on the 20th October 1887, by his will dated 24th January, 1884, with a codicil of the same date, and another of the 19th April, 1886, bequeaths to his godchildren, Abel Straghan Charles Rawson, Helen Adela Vassal, Frank Burgess, and Olive Marjories Tillard, each £50; to his friend and one of his executors, Mr Philip Edward Tillard, banker of Huntingdon, £50; to his sister, Mrs Elizabeth Thorne Little, and his sister-in-law, Mrs Georgina Maria Smelt, each £50; to his sister Miss Louise Tanner, £100; his coachman, James Packer, £50; and his late gardener, J. Hudson, £20. He leaves to his son, Mr Arthur Tanner, the Great Western Steamship Yard, on the south side of the Floating Harbour, at Bedminster, and his land hereditaments at Burnham; confirms the gift to his said son of £10,000 and bequeaths to his daughters, Miss Ellen Georgiana and Miss Florence Tanner, £18,000 each, and devises and bequeaths the residue of his estate, the personalty being of the value of £81,098 14s 1d, to his son, Mr William George Tanner; and appoints him, Mr Arthur Tanner, and Mr Tillard executors of his will.
05/10/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr J. C. Ludlow
At his residence at Blakeney, Forest of Dean, the death occurred suddenly, on Wednesday, of Mr J. C. Ludlow, a gentleman who for a long period was a member of the well-known firm of Saunders & Ludlow, wholesale confectioners, of Bristol. About five years ago the deceased, although still connected with the firm, retired from business, and settled down in Blakeney, where, with Mrs Ludlow, and a niece, he has since resided. He was of retiring habits, and did not take an active part in local matters, but was a kind friend to the poor. He was a Churchman and a Conservative, but held moderate views. It was known that the deceased suffered from an affection of the heart, and this was the cause of his death, which occurred late on Wednesday evening. The body will be interred in the Congregational burial ground at Blakeney on Monday.
22/11/1888
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Thomas Truscott
It is with great regret that we have received the news of the death of the Rev. Thomas Truscott, who left this country in 1881 for Sierra Leone, West Africa, to superintend the mission in connection with the United Methodist Free Churches in that colony. No particulars have et come to hand of the sad event, which took place on Thursday last, but it is presumed that he has fallen victim to the deadly climate for which the country is notorious, and from the effects of which he has been suffering for a considerable time past. Mr Truscott was well-known in this city, having laboured very successfully in the South Circuit, of which he was pastor in the years 1873 to 1876. His kind and general disposition endeared him to all whom he came in contact, and his loss will be mourned by a large circle of friends, as well as by the West African Mission and the Methodist Free Churches at large. He has been engaged in some very important "chapel improvement" work, and it was hoped that with assistance that has been rendered by friends in Bristol and elsewhere he would soon be able to see the completion of same, and retire in the near future from the mission. He has been eminently successful in his work aboard, and but for the unhealthiness of the climate and his premature death a brilliant future was undoubtedly before him. The rev. gentleman was in his 41st year. The Rev. William Vivian also recently of Bristol, remains in charge of the mission.
08/10/1887
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Grierson
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Grierson, general manager of the Great Western Railway. Mr Grierson had been in comparatively good health up to about ten days ago, when he returned from a short tour in Italy. He attended to his official duties up to the early part of this week, and was at Paddington Station on Saturday last. He then went to Great Marlow, where he had a summer residence. A day or two later he was seized with an attack of dysentery, which was followed by some alarming symptoms. On Thursday it was evident that he was in a critical condition, and he gradually sank until a quarter to eight last evening, when death occurred. Two of Mr Grierson's daughters, who were at school in Clifton, were telegraphed for, and they left Bristol last evening, shortly before a telegram was received announcing that the illness had terminated fatally. Mr Grierson was highly respected by the staff of the Great Western Railway, and was held in much esteem in the commercial world. He possessed indomitable energy, and it was under his management that the Great Western line attained its present proportions. The news of his death will be received with general regret especially in the West of England, where he was well known.
24/02/1881
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Hon. Grantley Fitzhardinge Berkeley
The Hon. Grantley Fitzhardinge Berkeley died at Dursley Villa, Longfleat, Poole, yesterday afternoon in his 82nd year. He leaves one son, Captain Edward Stratton Fitzhardinge.
The deceased is thus referred to in Men of the Time:
The Hon. George Charles Grantley Fitzhardinge Berkeley, a younger son of the late Earl of Berkeley, and heir presumptive to that title, born in 1800, was presented at the age of sixteen by his godfather, George IV, (then Prince regent), with a commission in the Coldstream Guards, from which he retired on half-pay shortly after coming of age. He represented the Western Division of Gloucestershire, in the Liberal interest, from 1832 to 1847. In 1836 he published his novel "Berkeley Castle," and feeling much annoyed at the severe strictures passed upon it in Fraser's Magazine, committed a violent assault upon the publisher. For this an action was brought by Mr Fraser, who obtained a verdict with £100 damages. Dr Maginn, who declared himself the author of the article which had given offence, was challenged by Mr Berkeley, and was slightly wounded by him in the duel that ensued. Mr Berkeley who has been a master of stag and fox hounds, is well known as a proficient in all kinds of field sports, and is the author of "Laudon Hall;" "Reminiscences of a Huntsman;""A Month in the Forests of France;" The English Sportsman in the Western Prairies;" "My Life and Recollections," 1864; and "Tales of Life and Death," two vols, 1869. His best known book is a volume of reminiscences, entitled "The Upper Ten Thousand at Home and Aboard," and his latest is entitled "Fact Against Fiction: The Habits and Treatments of Animals Practically Considered: Hydrophobia and Distempers, with Some remarks on Darwin," 2 Vols., 1874. He has also written "Love at the Lion," and other poems, and has been a frequent contributor to periodical literature on subjects more or less connected with field sports.
Mr Grantley Berkeley occupied a peculiar position in the Berkeley family, as heir presumptive to the Earldom of Berkeley. His elder brother, Moreton Berkeley, the present Earl of Berkeley (who is a younger brother of the late member for Bristol) has never taken his seat in the House of Lords. He is thus referred to in Debrett's Peerage:
Thomas Moreton Fitzhardinge Berkeley, born Oct. 9th 1796, is virtually by decision of the House of Lords, 6th Earl of Berkeley. His Lordship's predecessor was his father, Frederick Augustus, 5th Earl of Berkeley. He was born May 24 1745, and succeeded his father, Jan. 1755; was Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Constable of St. Briavel's Castle, Warden of Dean Forest, and High Steward of Gloucester; married May 16th,1796, Miss Mary Cole (which marriage, however, though the House of Lords decided that it took place in 1796, was said, by some members of the family, to have been celebrated in March 1785); died August 8 1810, having had issue seven sons and five daughters. Her Ladyship died in 1844.
08/03/1881
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Harford
We regret to announce that Mr John Harford, City Treasurer, expired yesterday afternoon at his residence in Cumberland Road. The deceased gentleman, who was 78 years of age, had been for 65 years employed at the Council House, and for about a quarter of a century he had been city treasurer, having succeeded Mr Gerrard, to whom he had for some time been assistant. Mr Harford had for some time been unwell, and his decease came not unexpectedly.
He was much respected in his office, and the thorough acquaintance he possessed of local affairs, with his business habits, rendered him peculiarly fitted for the responsible position which he occupied.
09/05/1881
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Randle Wilbraham Falconer
Dr Randle Wilbraham Falconer, of Bath, the well-known physician, expired somewhat suddenly on Friday evening at his residence, Bennett Street. The deceased, who suffered from weakness of the heart, felt himself unwell on Thursday night, and about two o'clock the following morning he became faint, and Dr Goodridge was sent for. He never rallied, and expired as above stated. Dr Falconer was an influential member of the British Medical Association, filling the office of President during its visit to Bath. He was a member of several medical societies, and the author of one or two works on the Bath waters, besides papers elucidating points of local antiquarian interest. He was for some time a member of the Town Council of Bath, and twice filled the civic chair in that city. He was the President of the Bath Royal United Hospital, as well as president of the Bath and County Club. From his public usefulness, professional skill, and business habits, his loss will be deeply felt. He was in his 68th year, and leaves a widow and four children. His sister, who survives him, was married to the late Mr J. A. Roebuck, M.P.
03/08/1881
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Captain H. Edgar
A figure long familiar to Cliftonians, and a cheery, soldierly face which leaves many a friend behind to regret its loss, will be missed by the death of Captain H. Edgar, for 25 years an officer of the 26th Cameronians who died on Monday night at Clifton. Captain Edgar's health failed many years ago, and obliged him to retire from the service, which he left a quarter of a century since, and soon after settled down as a Bristolian. He had served in India and China during war, with gallantry and credit, and to the end of his days remained a soldier at heart, noting every change in the army with keen interest, though often noting it with doubt and misgiving as to the result. An attached admirer of the regimental system, as founded by Moore, a fellow soldier of Clyde and Gough, Captain Edgar accepted their views on military matters. But with a proper sense of discipline he always held it was the duty of those who were left in the army to obey the spirit of the times, and carry on with fidelity each change that was decided on. Socially Captain Edgar was a bright and happy companion, whose long life and tenacious memory enabled him to tell many a story with the effect that an active share in the events always confers. But the gallant old gentleman was far more ready to note what others had performed than to speak of himself. Of late years his health seemed to improve and he went out in society, but for a twelvemonth or more he accepted no invitations and saw little beyond a few old friends who regularly "looked him up". A change for the worse being feared by Mr Pritchard, his usual medical attendant, Dr. Fox was brought in for consultation three weeks ago, and considered that the heart disease from which his patient suffered had made dangerous progress. Still when a friend called on him Sunday evening Captain Edgar was hopeful of a favourable turn, and it was not till late on Monday that the fatal attack commenced. For several hours his sufferings were great, and Captain Edgar died about eleven o'clock.
12/12/1881
Western Daily Press
Obituary
General Purcell, R.A.
It is with much regret we have to record the death of this officer, which occurred at his house in Pembroke Road, Clifton, on Friday last. General Purcell had been a sufferer for many months from cancer in the throat, for the alleviation of which operations and other remedies had been unavailingly tried. He lately commanded the Auxiliary Artillery in this district, and in the exercise of his duties made many friends. The urbanity and tact required in adjusting the frequent differences arising with imperfectly disciplined troops were qualities which General Purcell understood and possessed to an in an eminent degree, and in society he was deservedly popular. General Purcell's war services were chiefly performed in the West Indies. In 1859 he served under Col. McCrea in the revolution which upset the Emperor Fausti at Hayti, and for his efforts in protecting the Europeans, at Port au Prince, as well as for carrying off the Emperor, his family and ministers, he received the thanks of the French and English Governments. His commissions bear the following dates:-
second lieut, 1850; lieut, 1852; captain, 1856; lieut-colonel, 1872. During the present year he retired from the army, receiving the rank of major-general. Judging from his service, General Purcell must have been about 48 years of age. He leaves a widow and a large family.
17/01/1888
Bristol Times and Mirror
Obituary
Col. David Macliver
It is with feelings of very sincere regret that we receive intelligence of the death of Colonel David Macliver, the only son of Mr P. S. Macliver, of the Western Daily Press, in which business the lamented deceased was co-partner with his father.
Upon the establishment of the Daily Press - some quarter of a century ago- Mr David Macliver came with his father from Newcastle to Bristol; and in addition to his occupation at the office, he devoted a considerable portion of his time to military duties, joining the Somerset militia at Bath, under the colonelcy of Col. Pinney, in which regiment he soon obtained a captaincy, and subsequently became Major. He took a great interest in military work, and passed an excellent examination at the School of Musketry at Hythe, becoming, in his turn, musketry instructor to his corps. Upon his retirement from the militia, about 13 years ago, Major Macliver joined the First Gloucestershire Engineer Volunteers, taking on his rank as major. He afterwards succeeded to the command of the corps, on the retirement of Lieut-Col. Washbourne, and held that position until within a fortnight of his death, when he was gazetted out and received the honorary rank of Lieut.-Colonel, in succession to the Duke of Beaufort, who with characteristic kindness and thoughtfulness, voluntarily offered to retire from that position in order that Colonel Macliver, on resigning his command, should not lose his rank and title. Colonel Macliver also manifested much interest in the establishment of the Submarine Mining Corps, of which he was hon. commandant. Ill-health also compelled Col. Macliver to retire at the end of last year from all business, including his magisterial duties, he having been added to the commission of the peace for the city of Bristol some six years ago. The deceased gentleman took an active part in local affairs, and frequently in church matters. He was Churchwarden of Christchurch, Broad Street, during the progress of its restoration, to which he liberally contributed. He served also on the Bristol Church Extension Commission; was for some time one of the honorary secretaries of the Bristol Bishopric Fund, his resignation having only been recently announced by Archdeacon Norris on account of failing health; and he was a member for the commission for inquiring into the condition of the Bristol poor. In politics Colonel Macliver was an Advanced Liberal, though he never obtruded his views into private life. He was selected by the Liberal Association of Chippenham, as their candidate a few years ago; but the redistribution scheme by which the Wiltshire borough was disenfranchised, added to pronounced ill-health, led him to abandon political life. He remained however, a member of the Reform Club, and in 1884 he was president of the Anchor Society, when his collection amounted to £1002 - one of the largest recorded in the history of the society. On one occasion, too, he was president of the Caledonian Society. It was naturally the wish of the family to have brought the body home for interment; but the medical authorities at Cannes, where he died, ordered immediate burial, and we learn that the funeral will accordingly take place to-day. Colonel Macliver had gone to the South of France, with Mrs Macliver, in the hope that a residence in a warmer climate would effect a change for the better; but the malady from which he was suffering - disease of the heart - gave his friends great anxiety, and but slight hope of his complete recovery. Colonel Macliver was a kind-hearted gentleman, whose genial temperament and unobtrusive demeanour rendered him a very pleasant companion; and by those who knew him well he was highly esteemed as a friend. Amongst his brethren of the press he was deservedly respected; and, speaking for ourselves personally, we can truly say that our connection with him in business matters was one which we can only remember as having ever been marked by pleasant associations. The flags on the civic buildings were half-masted yesterday as a token of respect for the deceased gentleman. Colonel Macliver who was 45 years old, leaves a widow - a daughter of Major Brooks, of Tetbury - and an only son, a child twelve years old.
28/12/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Brass
A Builder's Will
The value has been declared at £162940 12s 8d of the personal estate of the late William Brass, of The Elms, Leigham Court Road, and of Old Street, St Luke's, builder, of whose will the executors are his son, William Brass, of 47 Old Street; his son- in-law, Edward Grimwade, of 69, Queen Victoria Street; and his half-brother, Robert Brass, of St Thomas's Hospital. His capital is allowed to remain in his business for a term of years, repayable by yearly instalments, and his sons, Thomas and Henry Brass, are to have the option, when each is twenty-five years old, of taking shares in the business, with the testator's eldest son and partner. The residue of his property, real and personal, he leaves in trust for all his children in equal shares; but as to £20000 of the share of each daughter to pay the income to her for life, with power of appointment to her in favour of her children.
06/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir William Guise, Bart
Probate has been granted of the will, dated 10th September, 1887, of Colonel Sir William Vernon Guise, Bart., J.P. and D.L., who died on the 24th September last, aged 71 years, at his seat, Elmore Court, Gloucester (of which county he was High Sheriff in 1872), and the executors of whose will are his sons, Sir W. Francis George Guise (the present baronet) and Capt. Christopher Daring Guise, by whom the value of the personal estate has been declared at £49,135 4s 10d, and the testator bequeaths to his wife, Dame Margaret Guise, her personal jewellery and trinkets, and the use of his plate, pictures, articles of vertu, furniture, and household effects whilst she chooses to reside at Elmore Court; to his said son Christopher £8,000 and to his daughters Charlotte, Henrietta, Georgiana, Margaret, and Elizabeth, £15,000, in equal shares as tenants in common (the said two sums of £8,000 and £15,000 to be raised from the testator's stock and shares in the Midland and Great Western Railways). He bequeaths the family diamonds and the military decorations of his late father, Sir George Wright Guise, to devolve as heirlooms with Elmore Court, and all his real estate and the residue of his personal estate he devises and bequeaths to his said son, Sir W. F. G. Guise, Bart.
06/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Hengler
The executors of the will of the late Mr Charles Hengler have just completed their estimates of the value of the real property left by that gentleman. It consists of land and buildings in London, Liverpool, Hull, and Gloucestershire, the value of which is estimated at £50,000. This, added to the personalty, which was sworn at £60,000, makes the total value of the estate £110,000.
31/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. Augustus Chester-Master
Probate has been granted of the will (dated 29th July, 1858) of the Rev. Augustus Chester-Master, of Knowle Park, and late of Preston, Gloucestershire, who died on the 10th ult., and the sole executrix of whose will is Mrs Harriett Master, the relict, by whom the value of the personal estate has been declared under £1,000.
11/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Spark, J.P.
The will dated 2nd May, 1887, has been proved of the late Mr William Spark, J.P., of Apsley Road, Clifton, who died on the 4th of December last, aged 75 years, and by his will bequeaths £3000 in trust for the children of Mr Charles Abbott Peters, solicitor, by his late wife, Mrs Kate Peters, and devises and bequeaths all his other property in equal shares to his daughters, Mrs Mary Stephens James and Mrs Amy Fargus, whom he appoints executrixes of his will; and Mr Joseph Benjamin Brain executor. The value of the personal estate has been declared at £11,235 14s 7d.
s 7d.
31/01/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Eveleigh Wyndham
The value of the personalty has been returned for probate at £26,316 3s 4d of the late Mr John Eveleigh Wyndham of Clearwell Court, Coleford, Gloucestershire, J.P. who died on the 19th November last, aged 73 years, and on the same date gave to Mr Edward Wyndham, his son, mortis causa, a donation of all his property, real and personal, subject to a life interest in the same for Mrs Elizabeth Geraldine Wyndham, his wife, and the payment to each of the younger children as shall make up their fortunes to £5000, including what they received under settlements; and also, on the same date, by a codicil, gave to his said wife, donatio mortis causa, in lieu of a will, the right of sale of all his property, real and personal, subject to the right of pre-emption by his said son Edward at a valuation; and administration of the estate has been granted to the said Mrs Elizabeth Geraldine Wyndham, the relict, and Mr Edward John Eveleigh Wyndham, of 10, Hyde Park Street, the son.
11/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. Henry Pope
Probate has been granted of the will dated 26th of January, 1885, with codicils made 11th September and 15th December, 1885, of the Rev. Henry Pope, of 13, Walcot Parade, Bath, Primitive Methodist Superannuated Minister, who died on the 26th of December, 1887, and the executors of whose will are his friends, Mr John and Mr Henry Charles Stone, to each of whom he bequeaths £100, and devises his freehold house in Walcot Parade; and bequeaths the plate, pictures, books, furniture, and household effects therein, with £1070, to his great niece, Miss Ann Hannah Leech; and to Clare Elizabeth Serena Jane and Henry Leech each £570; to the testator's niece, Mrs Elizabeth Leech, £1075, and to her husband, Mr Samuel Leech, £75; to Ann and Eliza Collier, each £400; to George Collier, £300; to Joanna, Samuel, and Jacob Gayter, £300 each; to the Primitive Methodist Westgate Buildings Chapel Fund, £600; the Claremont Chapel Fund, £150; the Preachers' Friendly Society, £300; Superannuated Widows' and Orphans' Fund, £300; Missionary Society, £300; Eastern Dispensary, Bath £50; Royal United Hospital, Bath, £100; the Bath Victoria Park Fund, £50. The residue of his estate real and personal, the personalty being valued at £14,806 4s 8d, the testator devises and bequeaths to his said niece, Mrs Elizabeth Leech.
17/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Montague
The will, dated 10th January, 1887, has been proved of Mr Charles Montague, late of Hillside, Leigh Woods, Long Ashton, who died on the 20th of December last, and the value of whose personalty is returned at £7372 5s 6d. The testator devises and bequeaths all his property to his wife for her life, and on her decease bequeaths £300 to his son, Mr John Monthermer Montague, C.E., of the Indian Public Works Department, and the residue of his estate to him and to Mr Charles Arthur Haythorne Montague, the testator's elder son, to whom, as acting executor, probate has been granted, and the power reserved to grant probate also to the said Mr John M. Montague, the other executor named in the will.
17/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Walter Devereux
Probate of the will, dated 11th September, 1886, of the late Mr John Walter Devereux, of 2, Brunswick Place, Bath, barrister-at-law, who died on 20th November last, at 5, Pump Court Temple, has been granted to Mrs Sarah Deverell, the relict and sole executrix, by whom the value of the personalty has been declared at £4372 17s 2d, and to whom the testator devises and bequeaths all his estate, real and personal.
17/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Burton Newenham
The late Mr Charles Burton Newenham, of 12, Pulteney Street, Bath, by his will dated 20th October last, devises all his real estate in Ireland and bequeaths a sum of £1068, due to him from the Dublin and Wicklow Railway Company, to his daughters, Emily Lacey Cooper, Mrs Louisa Hardy, of Adelaide, South Australia, and Mrs Ann Henderson; devises a cottage at Lyme Regis to his brother, Capt. Newenham, R.N., and bequeaths to him £100, and to his two daughters £25 each; bequeaths his shares in the London Tramway Company, certain Colonial bonds of £100 each, £1800 Consols, and £1500 due to him in loans and mortgages in South Australia, to his said three daughters, £80 to his granddaughter, Mrs Bessie Irwin, of Adelaide, £25 to his grandson, Mr Charles Burton Hardy, of Adelaide, and numerous other legacies; and he bequeaths in trust his reversionary interest in a sum of £1125 18s 5d, subject to the life interest therein of the widow of his late son, Mr G. Cobb Newenham, now Mrs Lucy Duthoit, to pay on her decease £300 to her present husband, Mr Pere Duthoit, £100 to the Mitcham Church at Adelaide, and £200 to his said daughter, Mrs Louisa Hardy. All his money at the bankers' and in the house, and any arrears of his pension the testator bequeaths, in equal shares, to Lady Cooper and Mrs Hardy, and a sum of £1500 on mortgage in the colony to the latter. The value of his personal estate in the United Kingdom is declared at £8280 0s 9d by the executors, Mr James Henderson and the Rev. Thomas Tyers, to each of whom the testator bequeaths £25.
17/02/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George Gillson
Probate has been granted of the will, dated 10th February, 1883, with a codicil made 1st July 1885, of Mr George Gillson, formerly of Clive Lodge, but late of Ovendale, Downend, Mangotsfield, who died on the 16th October last, and the value of whose personal estate has been declared at £7261 14s 11d by the acting executrix, his sister, Miss Caroline Gillson, power being reserved to grant probate also to Miss Harriet Gillson, the other executrix named in the will, and the testator bequeaths to his said sisters all his furniture and household effects, and devises and bequeaths the residue of his estate in trust to pay the income thereof for life to his said sisters and the survivor of them, and on the decease of the survivor to pay legacies of £100 each to his nephews, Mr William Graham, the Rev. John Graham and Mr Robert George Graham, and to divide the ultimate residue in equal shares amongst them and the other of his nephews and nieces - Mrs Reader Gillson Wood, the Rev Henry Wood, Mr William Moore Gillson, Captain Robert Moore Gillson, R.N., Mr Edward Moore Gillson, Mr Henry Thomas Gillson, the Rev Septimus Gillson, Mrs Mary Blunt, Mrs Emily Ommaney, and Mr Charles James Graham.
02/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Tovey
The will, dated 5th October 1885, and five codicils of Mr Charles Tovey, late of Royal York Crescent, Stokes Croft, and the Quadrant Brighton, has been proved in the Bristol District registry, by the executors, the Rev. Duncan Crokkes Tovey, Miss Alice Maud Mary Tovey (son and daughter of the testator), and W. E. Perham, Bourton Court, Somerset (solicitor), for the purpose of administration in the nominal sum of £2500. The testator having directed his carriages, horses, and furniture, to be sold immediately after his decease with the exception of such parts as are specifically bequeathed by will, vests his entire estate in his trustees for the purpose of carrying out the general trusts of his will. To his widow he gives the use of his residence at Brighton, and furniture and an annuity of £300, Mrs Tovey being otherwise provided for by settlement. The residue of the estate after the payment of legacies to the various members of the family of the deceased, and also to the workmen and servants, is to be divided between the testator's three daughters, Miss Alice Tovey, Mrs Webb, and Mrs Relton.
02/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. Charles Loder Loder
The will, dated 26th October 1887, has been proved of the Rev. Charles Loder Loder, late of Backwith Lodge, Bath, who confirms the appointment of a sum of £3400 from a settled fund to his nephew, Mr John E. Bright; bequeaths £1350 to his brother, Mr William Stephen Loder, and £100 to the minister and churchwardens of Kencot, Oxon, for coals to the poor at Christmas; and devises and bequeaths all the residue of his property to his said brother, whom he appoints sole executor, and by whom the value of the personal estate has been declared at £1760 1s 4d.
02/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Wills
Alderman Thomas Williams Richards
Probate of the will, dated 20th July, 1887, of the late Alderman Thomas Williams Richards, of Dursley, who died April 30th last, has been granted to the executors, his nephews Mr William James Leslie, Mr George Blackwell, and Mr James Gordon Wesden, to the two last-named of whom and to Mr George Wesden he bequeaths £50 each; to Mr Thomas Henry Lister and Mr Robert Ashton Lister each £4000; to Mrs Emma Coe, Katharine Hibbard, and Eliza Wainwright each £3000; to Mr Thomas Henry Chubb £1500; Mr Montague Henry Chubb £500; Miss Fanny Chubb, Miss Emily Chubb, and Miss Isabel Ann Chubb each £1000; to Mr George Tombs and Mr Charles Tombs each £200; to Mr Archibald Smith £300; to the testator's sister, Miss Emma Richards, £600, to Mr Charles T. Richards, her son, Mr William Richards, and her daughters, £500 each, and to Miss Amy Richards an annuity for her life of £25. The testator devises the Rock Grounds to Mr Ashton Lister, and devises and bequeaths the residue of his property, the personalty being of the value of £33,782 to his said nephew, Mr William James Lister.
19/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Wills
Mr Henry Cruger Miles
By his will dated July 22, 1886, the late Mr Henry Cruger Miles, of Penpole House, Shirehampton, Gloucester, who died on the fifth of April last, aged 56 years, appointed as executors his nephews Mr Robert Frinton Miles, Mr Philip Napier Miles, and Mr Jeremiah Osborne, and bequeathed the furniture and household effects at Penpole House, excepting plate and wine, to his sister, Miss Clara Phillipa Miles for life, and after her decease to all his brothers and sisters, his effects at Kingsweston to the person who being a descendant of his late father may be the tenant of that estate; his furniture and household effects at Elveston Place to his sister, Mrs Adelaide MacDougall; all his plate and wine to his brothers and sisters, and he devised all his real estate and bequeathed the residue of his personal estate, the personalty being of the value of £13,459 5s 9d to the person entitled in tail male under the will of his father, the late Mr Philip John Miles, to the Kingsweston estate.
19/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Granville Diggle Hill
Probate of the will dated September 11th, 1859, of the late Mr Granville Diggle Hill, of 3 Laura Place, Bath, who died on the 9th May last, has been granted to the sole executrix, his wife, Mrs Susannah Hill, to whom the testator bequeaths all his personal estate absolutely; the personalty being of the value of £8270 16s 6d. and the testator devises his freehold house 17 Seymour Street, Bath, the estate of Pimperne, Dorset, formerly the property of Mrs Elizabeth Godwin, and all other his real estate to his said wife for life, with remainder to his daughter, Eleanor, and contingent remainders to his brothers, Mr John Hutton Hill and Mr Edward Chamberlain Hill.
19/07/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Gerard Lipyeatt Gosselin
Probate of the will, dated 12th March, 1874, with codicils made 22nd November, 1881, 2nd November, 1886, and 22nd February, 1888, of the late Mr Gerard Lipyeatt Gosselin, of 28, Park Street, Bath, and formerly of Mount Ospringe, Kent, who died on 4th May last, aged 93 years, has been granted to the executors, Mr Francis Gerard St. George Tupper, to whom the testator bequeaths £50, and Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Basil Fanshawe, and the testator bequeaths to his grandchildren, Helen, Maud, and Gerard Lewis Fanshawe, each £100, his money at Messrs Dimsdale and Co.'s, his bankers, to his wife, Mary Amelia Gosselin, and he appoints the funds of his marriage settlements of 1829, subject to his said wife's interest therein, as to one moiety to his daughter, Miss Elizabeth Caroline Gosselin, for life, with a limited power of appointment by her, and the remainder to his daughter, Mrs Emily Catherine Fanshawe, to whom he also appoints the other moiety of the settled funds, and he bequeaths the use and enjoyment of his house, 28 Park Street, and its furniture, and the income of the residue of his estate, the personalty being of the value of £6,146 7s 7d to his said wife for life, and on her decease to provide an income of £600 a year for life for his said daughter, Elizabeth Caroline, and as to the ultimate residue for his said daughter, Mrs Fanshawe.
10/12/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Miss Emily Theophilia Smythe
Probate of the will, dated 20th Oct, 1883, with codicils made 7th Dec, 1884 and 23rd Feb, 1887 of the late Miss Emily Theophilia Smythe, of 36 Royal York Crescent, Clifton, who died on the 24th Sept. last, has been granted to the executors, Mr Edward Fitzgerald Frederick Campbell, Mr Edward Harold Morris, and Mr Chas. Edward Harris, and the testatrix bequeaths her large oval diamond with pendants, the portrait and bust of Lord Metcalfe, and £2000 to Sir Charles H. Theophilus with the desire that the diamonds may devolve as heirlooms in his family in memory of her uncle Lord Metcalfe; and she leaves to Ethel Theophila Metcalfe £1500; to Emily Anne Theophila, the wife of Sir Edward Clive Bayley, £1200, and all her valuable old lace; to her brother, the Rev. Thomas Ryle Smythe, her oval diamond ring; to Mr E. H. Morris, her plate; to the children of Sir Edward Fitzgerald, £5000; to Angus Shakespeare £2000; to Frances Sophia Schomberg, Maria Georgina Fitzgerald, Emily Charlotte Harris, and Julia Anne Vaughan, each £1000; to Mrs Lacroix, of Clifton, and to her godchild, Emily Georgina Fitzgerald, £100, and numerous other specific legacies to relatives, friends and servants. The testatrix leaves £100 each to the Bristol General Hospital, Bristol Blind Asylum, and to the rector of St Paul's, Clifton, and the rector of the Parish Church, Clifton, for the poor of Bristol and Clifton, and all her residuary estate to Emily Charlotte Harris, Frances Sophia Schomberg, and Edward Harold Morris, in equal shares, the value of the personalty being £27,840 17s 5d.
24/12/1888
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Swinfen Jordan
Probate of the will, dated 25 ,1884, with codicils made December 20, 1886, and June 29, 1887, of the late Mr Swinfen Jordan, of Victoria Square, Bristol, who died on 15th October last, has been granted to the executors ( Mr Herbert Meade-King, solicitor, and Mr George Wm. Lucas, stockbroker), and the testator bequeaths £100 to Harriet Jordan Phillips, of Pensiloa, Cornwall; the income of £900 to his cousins, Elizabeth, Harriett, and Fanny Jordan, or the survivors of them and 50 guineas each to the executors of his will. The residue of his property, real and personal, he leaves in trust for all his children in equal shares, subject to the bringing into account of £2400 by his son, Mr Wm. L. Jordan; £2000 by his daughter, Mrs Wilson-Croker; £3000 by his daughter, Mrs Oliver Haywood, and £3000 by his daughter, Mrs Bramley Moore. The value of the personal estate has been declared at £47,926 14s 1d.
16/06/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr J. C. Marsh
The members of the Y.M.C.A. at Totterdown, and a very large number of residents of that district and Knowle will hear will great regret of the sudden death of Mr J. C. Marsh, the popular secretary of the Y.M.C.A. in the district. Mr Marsh was formerly in business in Totterdown and devoted himself some years ago to the welfare of the young life of the neighbourhood. He commenced by taking a house near the Three Lamps and subsequently became so engrossed in his work amongst the young men that he retired from his own business and applied all his time and labour to what had before been his hobby. His position within the Y.M.C.A. became such that he on general occasions was sent aboard to represent their organisation. The Totterdown branch flourished under his guiding hand and eventually several houses were purchased and the present fine buildings erected as the local headquarters. His death took place at his residence, 30, Brecknock Road, Knowle, yesterday morning, and his position amongst the younger generation will be difficult to replace.
26/09/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Tucker
The funeral of Mr William Tucker took place yesterday in the churchyard at All Saints' Church, Long Ashton. He had been a member of the Parish Council continuously since its inception in 1894, representing the Labour element on that body, and he was admired and respected for his straightforward utterances.
08/09/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. J. Moffat Logan
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. J. Moffat Logan, after many years of eminently successful ministerial work in Bristol and at Accrington. For a considerable time his health had been unsatisfactory, and in February last he broke down altogether owing to haemorrhage of the throat, with complications. He passed away on Saturday, and his death was announced last night to the congregation at Old King Street Baptist Chapel, Bristol.
Mr Moffat Logan came to Bristol at the beginning of 1831, as minister of Old King Street Baptist Chapel. This historic church had then been for some time without a pastor, the services were thinly attended, and the financial position left much to be desired. It was therefore in circumstances requiring a good deal of courage that Mr Logan accepted the invitation sent to him in the autumn of 1890. He was then minister at Bromley, Kent, previous to which to was at Egremont. He had been trained for his ministerial work at Rawdon College. His advent at Old King Street was marked by conditions calculated to try the spirit of a faint-hearted minister, but happily Mr Logan was not a man easily daunted. The morning of January 4th, his first Sunday with his new people, was cold and misty and in a church that will seat a thousand persons, the small congregation looked the smaller. The officers of the church had issued a circular to the members and worshippers stating that they had every hope and confidence that with Devine blessing, Mr Logan's ministry would be successful, and that he would be the means of restoring spiritual tone and strength to the church, and infusing new life and vigour into its various organizations. They did not conceal from themselves that that could only be done with the prayerful and zealous co-operation of the members with their pastor, and they appealed to each one to do his or her part towards affecting the desired revival. It may be interesting to add that Mr Logan's first sermon, preached under these conditions, was based on the words "Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be dismayed." The recognition service was held a couple of months later, on March 11th, under the presidency of Mr Charles Townsend, and sanguine hopes that a new era of prosperity had dawned for Old King Street Chapel were expressed by the speakers who joined in the proceedings. Happily these auguries were justified by the subsequent history of the church.
Mr Logan's achievement was followed by a rapid increase in the congregation, and he soon came to be known throughout this district as a man of considerable originality and as a speaker who was particularly able in controversy. He had had considerable experience in debate, and displayed and again in argumentative duels, a wonderful alertness in appreciating an opponent's contention and seeing a weak point in it, and with this quality he combined much ability in forcibly presenting his own views. A public debate with a well-known secularist, Mr G. W. Foote, excited a great deal of interest at the time. Although one of the strongest advocates of peace and locally a leader of the conciliation movement brought into existence by the South African war, Mr Logan was essentially a fighter in the sense indicated, and again and again on the platform and in newspaper columns he found himself engaged in argumentative combat. These qualities of the mind soon after his arrival in Bristol found expression the men's Sunday afternoon discussion class at Old King Street, at which a variety of social and religious subjects were discussed wit much spirit. Current topics, predominantly occupying the public attention for the moment, were again and again selected as the themes for consideration at these gatherings, at which all were welcomed. Mr Logan apparently had not the fear which would have influenced differently constituted minds that topics on which opinion was acutely divided might in heated debate lead to displays of feeling not easy to control. Some of his addresses delivered on special occasions, and after careful preparation, were really fine pieces of work, bristling with points most effectively put, and notably free from platitudes.
At one time Mr Logan was known as a lecturer on characters famous in history, but in later years he preferred to devote his energies more to matters closely associated with ministerial and social work. During the pastorate of Mr Logan at Old King Street the membership rose from 131 to 620; church agencies showed a marked increase in vitality, and an important scheme of church renovation and improvement was carried out. In a variety of ways, therefore, the confidence with which the committee of the church looked forward to Mr Logan's work was justified, probably even more amply than sanguine members anticipated would have been possible.
In 1902 the Rev. Moffat Logan accepted an invitation to become minister of Cannon Street Baptist Chapel, Accrington, where for 17 years he laboured with marked success. An Accrington correspondent writes:- He was a sweet and compelling personality, and he won widespread affections. Never physically robust he confined his energies to the enunciation and furtherance of Baptist tenets. He had the intense fervour that come with his Scottish ancestry, and though a believer in the harmonious association of Free Churches, he beheld clearly their distinctions. From that trait in his character proceeded many of his actions. He was firmly opposed to payment in the education rate for religious instruction over which Nonconformity had no control, and as a passive resister made an annual speech of protest at the police court until last year. He took the keenist delight in philosophic and sectarian subtleties. Special sermons he delivered at the Cannon Street Church - a feature he observed throughout his ministry - were, in their exposition of Nonconformity, interpreted as a challenge to Catholicism, and he was challenged by the Rev. Father Lester, of the Church of the Sacred Heart, an influential Catholic Church in Accrington, to debate the principles he condemned. A long newspaper controversy ensued into the doctrines of transubstantiation, and other essential differences between the churches, and was followed for months by the keenest interest by ardent religionists. Christian Science he condemned. His opposition to such play as Stanley' Houghton's "Younger Generation," produced by an Accrington dramatic society at a local theatre, was typical of his attitude towards certain tendencies he deplored. Yet, if rigid in some respects, he was astonishingly broad in other ways. In his early days in Accrington he astonished an audience at a Gospel Temperance Mission meeting by stating that if a man after a walk to Whalley (a countryside village) would not enjoy dropping in at "William John's" (the licensee of a public house) and having a bottle of Bass he would not believe him. Mr Logan was for a period moderator of the Lancashire and Cheshire Association of Baptist Churches.
09/10/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir Barclay Josiah Baron
Sir Barclay Josiah Baron, M.B., C.M., of 16 White Ladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, physician, a former Lord Mayor of Bristol, was a specialist in the diseases of the ear, nose and throat, a former president of the Bath and Bristol Branch of the British Medical Association, and consulting physician to the Bristol General Hospital, and lecturer to the Bristol Medical School. His death occurred at the age of 61, on the 7th June last, leaving estate valued at £32,415 9s 4d, with net personalty £16,631 1s 3d.
15/10/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Jeremiah Osborne
The will of the late Mr Jeremiah Osborne, who died on the 30th August, 1919, has, with a codicil, both dated 31st July, 1919, been proved by the executors, Mr Ivor A. Forester Walker, the deceased brother-in-law, and Capt. W. Reginald H. Jenkins, the deceased's son-in-law, and probate was granted on the 14th day of October, 1919. The net amount of the deceased's unsettled estate is £21,373 10s 9d. The deceased, after certain pecuniary legacies, left the residue of his estate to trust to pay the income of his widow for life, and afterwards for his children on the trusts therein declared. There are also marriage settlements under which the deceased's children benefit, and which are referred to in the will.
29/10/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George Gay
Mr George Gay of Rose Villa, Kingswood, Bristol, horse dealer, whose death occurred on the 26th August last, has left estate valued at £9,242 14s 7d, with net personalty £6,906 9s 4d.
18/11/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Nelson Congrave Dobson
We regret to announce the death on Sunday, of Mr Nelson Congrave Dobson, F.R.C.S., the well-known Bristol surgeon, at his house, 16, College Road, Clifton. Mr Dobson, who had been ill for many years, had become a permanent invalid. Only recently, however, he had expressed the earnest wish that he might live to see his V.C. son, Commander Claude Dobson, R.H., who had been summoned from the Baltic by wireless. Said to say this hope was not gratified, as Commander Dobson only reached as far as London before his father passed away. Mr Dobson entered St. Thomas's Hospital early in 1867, and became house surgeon, leaving in December of the same year to become assistant surgeon at Bristol General Hospital. Later he was appointed surgeon to the Bristol General Hospital, which position he held until 1893 when he retired. Mr Dobson was for many years a member and at one time President of the Clifton Shakespeare Society, and he was one of the founders of the Bristol Medical and Chirurgical Society. He married in 1874 a daughter of the late Mr R. J. Pierce, of Clifton.
27/11/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev. William Thomas Henry Wilson
The Rev. William Thomas Henry Wilson of 3, Norland Road, Clifton, Bristol, aged 78, vicar of Widcombe Somerset, from 1880-92, whose death occurred on the 30th August last, left gross estate valued at £10,387 3s 2d, with net personalty £9,920 12s 6d.
22/12/1919
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Alfred Smith
Mr Alfred Smith of 5, Burlington Road, Redland, Bristol, wine and spirit merchant, whose death occurred on the 26th September last, has left estate valued at £9,934 19s, with net personalty £7,596 8s 10d.
12/01/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Williams White
Mr John Williams White, a well-known citizen and a man of strongly marked individuality, has passed away after several months' illness. He was formerly a teacher of navigation, and nautical astronomy, and carried on this work at Plymouth, Bristol, Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea. A large number of ships' officers, thereby profited from his ability as instructor. For a number of years he had been one of the licensees of Bristol, the Rose of Denmark at Hotwells, and afterwards the Wheat Sheaf in Christmas Street, having been under his care. Mr White was at one time known as "the poor man's lawyer" from his readiness to freely advise on subjects about which he was consulted. He, of course, was not a solicitor, but had read widely on legal subjects and was ready to place his knowledge at the service of others. In his day he was a strong man who did not hesitate to take personal risks, and his gallantry in saving life was recognised by the Royal Humane Society, whose medal he held.
24/01/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Herbert Baker
Keen Volunteer & Sportsman
We regret to announce that Mr Herbert Baker, who was knocked down by a motor van at Totterdown, on Tuesday afternoon, died at the General Hospital from his injuries. Mr Baker was the eldest son of the late Mr William Baker, of Sneyd Park. He was educated at Charterhouse, and started life as an architect, but gave up that profession on taking over the business of a timber merchant from his father. He joined the 1st (City of Bristol) Volunteer Battalion the Gloucestershire Regiment, in its early days, and served for nearly 30 years, retiring some years ago as a major. He was a very keen soldier and a good shot, and to the end took the liveliest interest in military matters, being a keen supporter of the Bristol Tactical Society and a member of the Gloucestershire Territorial Association.
A good sportsman, he played cricket for the Old Sneyd Park Club and Clifton Club, and was one of the first to introduce hockey to Bristol, while latterly he was a familiar figure on the golf links at Saltford. He leaves two sons, both of whom are serving in the Army, and two daughters.
The funeral will take place on Saturday, at Canford Cemetery.
31/01/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Albert Ralph Knee
Mr Albert Ralph Knee, of 17, Gordon Road, Clifton, Bristol, furniture warehouseman and removal contractor, whose death occurred on August 29th last, has left estate valued at £12,695 15s 9d.
04/02/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Maudslay Jackson
Bristol has lost one of her well-known citizens in Mr George Maudslay Jackson, of Alpenfels, Leigh Woods. He died at the residence of his sister, Mrs J. A. Sanders, at 10, Cotham Vale, on Friday night. During the last two years he had been in charge of a Y.M.C.A. hut, first at Shirehampton and then at Filton, for the R.F.C. men. He was always kindly interested in the religious life of the city. A member of Highbury Chapel, and one of the band of workers at the Broad Plain Mission, and also a director of the London Missionary Society. For many years he spent his Sundays and spare time in evangelist work in Bristol and the neighbouring villages in connection with the Bristol Itinerant Society and the Bristol City Mission, and he will be missed by the sick and the poor in many a home. It is thought his exertions in the work of the Y.M.C.A. huts brought on the illness which terminated fatally in less than a week. The deceased's two sons have both seen Service in the Army. One is now a doctor with the Mesopotamian Army, and the other after being severely wounded in France, has returned to Bristol to resume his studies at the University. Mr Jackson's two daughters are also actively engaged in national work.
11/02/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John James Abington
The Bristol Itinerant Society has lost one of its oldest and best known preachers through the death of Mr John James Abington, who passed away at his residence, 79, Stackpool Road, Southville, on Saturday, at the age of 66 years. Mr Abington, upon medical advice, retired from the East Street business last March, and had been in failing health ever since. He was a former secretary of the Itinerant Society, and his readiness to fill a gap in any nonconformist pulpit, or upon any platforms was well-known. He was a member of Broadmead Baptist Church for many years, and he often presided at religious gatherings. The interment will take place on Wednesday at Arno's Vale.
05/04/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ernest Richmond Gribble
We regret to announce the death of Mr Ernest Richmond Gribble, which took place yesterday morning at his residence, 5, Broadway Road, Bishopston. Deceased was bookkeeper and managing clerk of Messrs C. T. Bennett and Co., Newfoundland merchants, of Queen Square with which firm he had been associated for nearly forty years. He was well-known in Masonic circles, and had obtained high rank in the Province of Bristol. He was a Past Master and Treasurer of the Royal Clarence Lodge, P.Z. of the Royal Clarence Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, P.M. of the Canynges Lodge of Mark Master Masons, and P.C.N. of the Harris Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. He held the office of Provincial Junior Grand Warden in Craft Masonry in 1916, and during the past few years he has been Treasurer to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons. He was also one of the Governors of Freemasons' Hall. He had been ill only a week, and the news of his death yesterday came as a shock to his numerous friends in the city. Much sympathy will be felt for the widow and members of the family, one of whom is on active service.
05/04/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ernest Richmond Gribble
We regret to announce the death of Mr Ernest Richmond Gribble, which took place yesterday morning at his residence, 5, Broadway Road, Bishopston. Deceased was bookkeeper and managing clerk of Messrs C. T. Bennett and Co., Newfoundland merchants, of Queen Square with which firm he had been associated for nearly forty years. He was well-known in Masonic circles, and had obtained high rank in the Province of Bristol. He was a Past Master and Treasurer of the Royal Clarence Lodge, P.Z. of the Royal Clarence Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, P.M. of the Canynges Lodge of Mark Master Masons, and P.C.N. of the Harris Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. He held the office of Provincial Junior Grand Warden in Craft Masonry in 1916, and during the past few years he has been Treasurer to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons. He was also one of the Governors of Freemasons' Hall. He had been ill only a week, and the news of his death yesterday came as a shock to his numerous friends in the city. Much sympathy will be felt for the widow and members of the family, one of whom is on active service.
20/03/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev E. Cobham
It having been decided to place a memorial in All Saints' Church, Fishponds, to the late Rev. E. Cobham, M.A., who was killed in East Africa in September last while serving as chaplain to H. M. Forces, a committee has been appointed to raise the necessary funds. The Rev. W. Stanley Brownless, vicar of All Saints', is chairman, and Messrs E. Willie, 439, Fishponds Road and H. Locke, 429, Fishponds Road, are joint treasurers. When the first portion of All Saints' Church was opened in 1906, Mr Cobham was its first missioner, and when, on a further extension of the church in 1909, the Rev. M. Griffiths became vicar, Mr Cobham was appointed curate, which office he held up to the death of Mr Griffiths in March 1911 when he succeeded him as vicar. Having, however, felt a strong call to become a foreign missionary, he resigned the living in June 1913, and left for East Africa to commence work there. On the outbreak of war he became Chaplain to the Forces, and gave his life when carrying in a wounded man. Those who knew Mr Cobham intimately speak of him as a man in the best and highest sense of the term, who did a vast amount of good in a quiet, unostentatious way. It is only fitting that the church with which he was associated for a period of seven years, should possess a memorial of one so universally respected and beloved.
08/04/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Alfred Bracey Crinks
Mr Alfred Bracey Crinks of 123 Redland Road, Bristol, wallpaper merchant, who died on the 19th January last, left estate valued at £10,017 3s 10d.
18/04/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Councillor Joseph Littleton
We regret to announce the death of Mr Joseph Littleton, which occurred rather suddenly on Tuesday night at his residence, 52, Archfield Road, Cotham. The deceased was a member of the firm of Anstey, Littleton, and Co., chartered accountants of St. Stephen Street, Bristol. A native of Cornwall, he came to Bristol at an early age and served his articles with Mr Henry Anstey. He was admitted a chartered accountant in 1886, served for a time as Mr Anstey's chief clerk, and was afterwards admitted to partnership. He was a clever accountant, and his professional duties took him to various parts of the country. In politics he was a Conservative, and was chairman of the St. Michael's Ward Conservative Association. He was elected a Councillor for the ward in 1913, and rendered important service on such committees as the Electrical, Boundaries and Tramways Option. He was a member of the vestry and a past warden of St. Stephen's Church, and took a keen interest in the important restoration schemes which have been carried out in recent years.
The deceased was a prominent Freemason, and held high rank in the Province of Bristol, being Senior Grand Warden in Provincial Grand Lodge and Deputy Grand Master of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons. He was Past Master and Treasurer of the Moira Lodge, P.M. of the Canynges and Dunckerley Lodges of Mark Master Masons, and P.N.C. of the Harris lodge of Royal Ark Mariners. He had also held Provincial ranks in Royal Arch Masonry, besides being a P.Z. of the Charity Chapter, and he had attained to high rank in the Knights Templar and Rose Croix degrees. For many years he was Treasurer to the Governors of Freemasons Hall, a position from which he retired about twelve months ago. He was deeply interested in Masonic Research, and was joint author with Wor. Bro. Cecil Powell of a valuable "History of Bristol Freemasonry" published about six years ago. He was Vice-President of the Bristol Masonic Society, which was recently formed to increase the interest of the brethren in the principles of Freemasonry by means of lectures, papers, and discussions on its history, antiquities, and symbolisms. He attended the City Council meeting on Tuesday, and was present in the evening at the annual meeting of Provincial Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons, and made an interesting speech on some ancient records concerning the degree which he had recently had the opportunity of inspecting. It was while returning to his home from the evening meeting that he was taken ill with heart trouble, from which he had been a sufferer. Mr C. H. Clark, who was accompanying, secured a cab and conveyed him to his residence, where he died about half an hour afterwards. Deceased who was 52 years of age, leaves a widow, two daughters, and son, for whom deep sympathy will be felt in their bereavement.
23/04/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr John Michael Clarke
A Distinguished Physician
We regret to announce the death of Dr John Michell Clarke, the well-known Clifton specialist, who passed away on Sunday at Looe, Cornwall, where he had been staying for some weeks for the benefit of his health, having been ill since December last.
Dr Michell Clarke, who resided at 28, Pembroke Road, Clifton, was the son of the late Mr W. Michell Clarke, of Clifton, who was also a distinguished member of the medical profession and surgeon to the Bristol General Hospital. The son was educated at Dr C. T. Hudson's School, Clifton, Clifton College, Cains College (Cambridge), Bristol Medical School, and St. Thomas's Hospital, London. He married a daughter of Dr A. J. Harrison, Clifton, and is survived by Mrs Michell Clarke; one son, Captain Alfred Michell Clarke, now on active service, and three daughters, one of whom is Mrs Orton. Another son, Second Lieut Wm. Michell Clarke, lost his life in action twelve months ago last November.
Carrying on a large and ever growing practice as a specialist in Bristol and the West of England, Mr Michael Clarke was one of the most popular and best-known members of the medical profession in this part of the country. Besides being a noted practitioner, he had a considerable reputation as a writer on medical subjects. He held an unusual number of degrees, including the following:- B.A. Cambridge (Nat. Science Tripos), 1882; M.A., 1866; M.B., 1885; M.D., 1892; LL.D. (Honorary), Bristol, 1912; F.R.C.P., London, 1896; and M.R.C.S., England, 1885.
Besides being a lieut-colonel of the Royal Army Medical Corps (Territorials), he was Physician to the Bristol General Hospital and Consulting Physician to the Clifton Dispensary; Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Professor of and Examiner in Medicine (formerly Professor of Pathology and Lecturer in Practical Physiology) of the University of Bristol; Physician to the Gloucestershire Visiting Justices'; Medical Referee to the Bristol Education Committee; Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine; member of the Physiological Society and the Association of Physicians; formerly Junior Demonstrator of Anatomy to Cambridge Medical School, and House Physician at St. Thomas's Hospital, London. He was a leading member of the Bath and Bristol Branch of the British Medical Association, filling the offices of President and hon. secretary, and had also been President of the Bristol Medico-Chirurgical Society. At the Bristol General Hospital he was a member of the Committee and senior physician, in both of which capacities he rendered valuable services during a long period of years, and his death means a great loss to the institution.
Dr Michell Clarke was a leading authority on medical subjects, and his opinions were highly valued by members of his profession. His publications included "Hysteria and Neurasthenia," "Family Periodic Paralysis," "Spinal Cord Degenerations in Anaemia," and "Removal of Tumour of Spinal Cord," besides which he contributed to Quain's Dictionary and Allbutt's "System of Medicine," as well as to the leading medical journals, and he was associate editor of the "Medico-Chirurgical Journal."
09/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter Bailey
The funeral took place yesterday of the late Mr Walter Bailey, of Weston-super-Mare, at Bristol Road Cemetery. Mr Bailey was connected with the firm of Messrs Lindrea and Co. Ltd., leather factors, of Bristol, for nearly 40 years, and was a director of the company until his retirement in June, 1917.
16/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Joseph Carwardine
Mr Joseph Carwardine, of the Hollies, Brislington, Bristol, candle manufacturer, formerly of Sheene Road, Bedminster, Bristol, whose death occurred on the 28th January last, left estate valued at £17,048 10s 9d.
28/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Scantlebury
The death is announced of Mr William Scantlebury, who has held the position of hallkeeper to the Colston Hall Company for over forty years after being pensioned out of H.M. Navy. There are few Bristolians to whom Mr Scantlebury was not known and his unfailing courtesy was appreciated by those who visited the hall. His latter years have been very strenuous as the hall has been in use for military purposes off and on since the outbreak of war, commencing with the billeting of the Territorial Engineers on August 5th, 1914, immediately followed by recruiting for the Kitchener Army, then by the occupancy of the Black Watch, and later the enlistments under the Derby scheme. Mr Scantlebury has contributed in no small measure to the smooth running of various recruiting and military tendencies. Musical and religious organisations and others who frequented the Colston Hall will miss the assistance born of long experience which Mr Scantlebury was able to render. The directors have lost a valuable and trusted official.
28/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George J. Wakefield
We regret to announce the death, which took place yesterday morning at his residence 6, Canowie Road, Redland, of Mr George J. Wakefield a well-known and much respected citizen. Mr Wakefield who was 72 years of age, had been unwell for several months. He was chairman of the Pockett Steamship Company, of Bristol and Swansea and formerly - he had retired thirty years ago - carried on business in Park Street. For the past eight years he was deacon of Tyndale Chapel, and many years ago he was deacon of Union Baptist Church, Ham Green, a post which he filled for twenty-five years. Mr Wakefield had a large circle of friends by whom he was deservedly respected.
30/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Arthur Douglas
Mr Arthur Douglas of 9, Warwick Road, Redland, Bristol, boot manufacturer, formerly of 22 Cromwell Road, Bishopston, Bristol, whose death occurred on the 3rd September last, has left estate valued at £9,026 3s 3d.
05/06/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut A. C. L. Hill
The announcement that Lieut A. C. L. Hill has fallen in action has caused sincere regret among a wide circle of friends in this city. He was the son of Mr Albert E. Hill, a member of the City Council, and before the war held a position with the Phoenix Assurance Company, Clare Street. Joining a Territorial battalion of the Gloucesters as soon as the call to the young manhood of the nation came, Lieut. Hill was early in France and it was just two years ago that he was badly wounded. On recovery he obtained a commission and was gazetted to the Royal Berkshire Regiment. It was while serving in the trenches that the young officer was hit in the chest by a piece of shell, death being almost instantaneous. Among the great many letters of condolences received by his father at Iddesleigh House, Durdham Park, one from his commanding officer contained a fine tribute: "His death," wrote this officer, "will be a great loss to the battalion and will be both keenly felt by officers and men. Everyone who came in contact with him formed the highest opinion of him. He was the best of soldiers and the best of men; his kindness and devotion to duty was an inspiration to his men, who would do anything for him." With Councillor Hill, who thus sustains his second heavy bereavement, much sympathy will be felt.
11/06/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Major T. McG Allison
Deep sympathy will be felt for Mr and Mrs Peter S. Allison of Westbury-on-Trym, upon the loss of their only son, Major T. McG. Allison, who was killed in action in France on May 31st. Major Allison held a commission for eight years in the Bristol Engineers and retired with the rank of captain on leaving to take up a position in the United States. He returned immediately on the outbreak of war and took a lieutenant's commission in the 12th Battalion, Gloucester Regiment (Bristol's Own). He went out with the Regiment and was mentioned in despatches. He had been home twice wounded. Major Allison was extremely popular with a wide circle of friends, and the news of the gallant officer's end will be received with deep regret throughout the city.
29/06/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr A. H. Butler
The death occurred suddenly yesterday of Mr A. H. Butler, of Draycott, Weston, Bath, formerly of Keynsham. Mr Butler, was 73, was a large boot and shoe dealer in Bath, and at one time carried on similar establishments in Bristol. For nine years he was a useful member of the Bath City Council. A great lover of horses, he secured many successes with driving cobs at local shows, and he was a member of the Bath Horse Show Committee. His only son, Capt. Seymour Butler, is a staff musketry instructor.
22/07/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William John Avery
The death is announce of Mr Wm. John Avery, at Fernwood House, Fishponds. For many years he was a very diligent member of the Board of Guardians, first with the old Barton Regis Board, and when that Board was dissolved in 1898, he became associated with the Bristol Board. He served on the Provisions and Farms Committees, and also took a practical interest in the welfare of the imbeciles, especially in connection with their annual field day. He was an ardent Nonconformist, and members in the chapels in the Fishponds district have at various times received practical help from him. Mr Avery was 78 years of age.
29/06/1918
Western Daily Press
Report
Captain Manley Angell James, V.C.
Captain Manley Angell James, who is a son of Dr James, of Nevil Road, Bishopston, was educated at the Bristol Grammar School, and received a commission in the Gloucestershire Regiment early in the war. About a year ago he was awarded the Military Cross for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. After the operations at Cambrai, Captain James was reported wounded and missing, and his friends feared the worst until the welcomed news arrived that he was alive, but a prisoner in Germany. Quite recently he has written home, and from his letters it is judged that he is making a good recovery from his wounds. He was shot through the stomach and hit in other places, but as far as can be gathered neither of the wounds is serious.
Before the war, Captain James was, although still a schoolboy, well known in local cricket. He gave promise of proving a fine batsman, making good scores for his school and also for the Bohemian Nomads of which team his father was captain. He is 22 years of age next week.
This is the fourth Victoria Cross awarded to a Bristol soldier during the present war. The previous awards were to Sergeant Rendell, Corporal Room, and Lieutenant Ash Parsons.
09/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George John Wakefield
Mr George John Wakefield of 8, Canowia Road, Redland, Bristol, retired director of a shipping company, aged 72 years, who died on the 27th May last, has left estate valued at £20,663 0s 1d.
09/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Dr Gillman Churton Prinz Pauli
Dr Gillman Churton Prinz Pauli, of 4, Glentworth Road, Redland, Bristol, physician and surgeon, aged 78, left estate valued at £5,679 8s 1d.
09/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Agnes Oke Alford
Mrs Agnes Oke Alford, of 5, West Park, Clifton, Bristol, widow, whose death occurred on the 26th June last, has left estate valued at £5,457 8s 11d.
09/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Jane Lucretia Hatch
Mrs Jane Lucretia Hatch, of 42, Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, Bristol, wife of Mr Richard Stanley Hatch, whose death occurred on the 8th June last, has left gross estate valued at £5,227 0s 5d.
17/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel John Hannam
We regret to announce the death of Mr Samuel John Hannam, 31 Cotham Vale, Redland, after a brief illness. He was chairman of Messrs Samuel J. Hannam, Ltd., timber merchants, 93 St. Thomas Street, Bristol, and had been connected with the timber trade for over half a century. He keenly felt the death of his only son, Captain Frank J. Hannam, Glo'sters, who was killed in action in France, July, 1916.
22/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Jonathan Fanson
Mr Jonathan Fanson, of 350, Wells Road, Knowle, Bristol, merchant, whose death occurred on the 2nd May last, left estate valued at £11,190 12s 5d.
22/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Bail
Mr Charles Bail, of 124, Coronation Road, Bristol, aged 83, warehouseman, who died on the 9th June last, has left estate valued at £6,724 14s 11d.
29/08/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Rogers
Mr Charles Rogers, of Clydeside, Acramans Road, Southville, Bristol, quarry master, whose death occurred on the 7th July last, has left estate valued at £28,286 16s 9d.
19/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Dame Victoria Alice Weston Stevens
Dame Victoria Alice Weston Stevens of Worcester Lodge, Clifton, Bristol, widow of the late Sir Joseph Weston Stevens, Kt., who died on the 19th April last, left gross estate of the value of £21,940 8s. Testatrix leaves to her trustees £10000 for board maintenance and education of deceased officers in his Majesty's Army killed in the great war, capital and interest to be available for such a purpose at any ladies' college or first class school.
21/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Arthur C. May
It is with much regret we record the death of Mr Arthur C. May of the firm May and Hassell Ltd., timber merchants of this city, which took place yesterday at his residence, Avon House, Sneyd Park. Mr May had been ill for several months, and it was but recently he was removed from Porlock to his home. He was the eldest of the late Mr T. F. C. May, and was very well-known in this city and highly esteemed. He will be remembered as a keen sportsman, having been the hon. secretary of the Berkeley hunt, and also master of the Clifton Harriers, which enjoyed a new lease of life and became a very successful sporting concern under his popular direction. An exceptionally good judge of horses, Mr May had adjudicated at most of the leading agricultural shows, and since the war he has devoted himself almost entirely to purchasing horses for the Government. He was president of the Incorporated Bristol Channel Timber Importers' Association, president of the Bristol Timber Merchants' Association, president of the Western Counties Timber Trades Association, and he had served on the Timber Controller's Select Committee for the United Kingdom. He happy, genial temperament and personality will be greatly missed. He was 57 years of age.
25/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Burge
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Burge, Assistant Overseer to the Bristol Corporation, who had been suffering from a painful illness for many months, and whose position had been hopeless for some time. Mr Burge spent practically the whole of his life in the service of the Corporation and was a highly valued member of the staff at the Council House. In the office of the Town Clerk during a long period of years, he acquired a most useful knowledge of civic work, and his acquaintance with city properties and their value was unique. When the boundaries of the city were re-arranged and the various rates consolidated, Mr Burge was appointed Assistant Overseer, and he filled the office with great ability, his intimate knowledge of values and assessments proving most useful in the overseer's department. A man of genial disposition, he was popular amongst the members of his staff in the Rates Office, and much respected by his colleagues generally in the service of the Corporation at the Council House.
27/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Matthew William Dunscombe
Mr Matthew William Dunscombe of 4, The Quadrant, Redland, Bristol, optician, founder of the firm of Messrs M. W. Dunscombe, Ltd., who died on the 6th June last, has left estate valued at £6,206 12s 11d.
27/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Humphries
Mr James Humphries, of Tanners' Buildings, St. Philip's, Bristol, and the market, Nicholas Street, Bristol, potato salesman, who died on the 15th December last, has left gross estate valued at £11,749 4s 6d.
27/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Mary Birkmyre
Mrs Mary Birkmyre, of 66, Pembroke Road, Clifton, Bristol, widow, whose death occurred on the 30th June last, has left estate valued at £11,350 4s 2d.
27/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Ann Williams Davis
Mrs Ann Williams Davis, of 23, Clyde Road, Redland, Bristol, widow, who died on the 14th August last, has left estate valued at £8,150 18s 5d.
02/10/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Joshua James Abington
Mr Joshua James Abington, of 79, Stackpool Road, Southville, Bristol, pawnbroker, whose death occurred on the 9th February last, has left estate valued at £26,753 2s 7d. He left £50 to the Bristol Congregational Itinerant Society and the Bristol City Mission, and £20 to the Bristol Baptist Itinerant Society.
15/10/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Talbot Sydenham Peppin
The death is announced of Mr Talbot Sydenham Peppin, an assistant manager at Clifton College, who passed away on the 10th inst., at Nailsworth, at the comparatively early age of 50 years. Mr Peppin, who was unmarried, and a brother of Mr A. H. Peppin, Music Master at the College, and been a form master for about 21 years, and will be well remembered by large numbers of Old Cliftonians. He was very popular alike amongst the staff and the boys. He had been suffering from a painful malady since June.
28/09/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred Harvey
A large circle of friends will regret to learn that Mr Alfred Harvey, secretary to the Bristol Docks Committee, died yesterday morning. In December 1916, Mr Harvey was taken ill with an attack of congestion of the lungs, which developed into pneumonia, and his condition gave rise to much anxiety at the time. After a rather long illness, however, he was able to return to his duties, but about two months ago he was stricken down with lung trouble again, and septic pneumonia setting in, his condition became so serious that no hope of his recovery could be entertained.
Mr Harvey commenced his business career on the clerical staff of the old Bristol and Exeter Railway before its absorption into the Great Western Railway system. In 1876 he became a member of the staff at the Bristol Docks Office, and rose from one position to another until he became chief clerk and then in 1904, assistant general manager with Mr F. B. Girdlestone. When the staff was re-arranged in 1910, Mr Ross-Johnson became general manager, and Mr Harvey was appointed to the newly-created and important office of secretary to the Docks Committee.
Mr Harvey's service at the Docks Office, in Queen's Square, covered the most eventful period in the history of the docks undertaking, and he took an active part in solving many intricate problems that arose from time to time, as well as in the promotion of important schemes of development - not the least of which was the construction of the Royal Edward Dock at Avonmouth. He rendered valuable help in the promotion of Parliamentary Bills and in the big legal actions that have been heard in London at various times - in many of which the proceedings lasted several days and sometimes weeks - and was associated with the Town Clerk in the great legal victory which the Corporation gained recently over the railway companies. His knowledge of dock affairs gathered during a long course of years, was a valuable asset to the Docks Committee.
A man of genial disposition and possessed of an exceptional knowledge of local affairs, Mr Harvey enjoyed a large measure of popularity alike among his colleagues at the Docks Office and business men in the city, to whom he was ever ready to impart information which was often of great assistance in promoting the trade of the port.
Mr Harvey married twice. His first wife was Miss Dowson, a Bristol lady, and there are several grown up children of the marriage, including three sons who have been engaged in various businesses for some years. In July 1910, he married Miss Eva Campbell, second daughter of the late Sir George Campbell, K.C.M.G., who survives him.
He was a Freemason and a Past Master of the Jerusalem Lodge.
Mr Harvey had attained the ripe age of 69 years.
16/10/1918
Western daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Edward Pearce
Mr Henry Edward Pearce, of 7, Burlington Road, Redland, Bristol, Supervisor of Inland Revenue, who died on the 14th September last, left estate of the gross value of £5,018 18s 4d.
23/10/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. T. Vaughan
The death occurred, yesterday morning, at 5, Stevens Crescent, Totterdown, of Mr E. T. Vaughan, who for many years was well-known in Bristol as a keen and ardent debater on religious and political subjects. Under the initials "E.T.V.", he was a familiar contributor to the correspondence columns of the Bristol newspapers, and he was an energetic worker for the Conservative Party. He was employed for many years at Messrs Northam, and, more recently, in the secretary's office at Messrs George's Brewery. He was 63 years of age.
30/10/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Benjamin Vowles
Mr Benjamin Vowles of 62, Cotham Road, Bristol, retired builder, who died on the 7th October, 1918, left estate of the gross value of £12,614 19s 10d.
30/10/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr David Mowbray Walker Bullock
Mr David Mowbray Walker Bullock, of 16, Charlotte Street, Brandon Hill, Bristol, was a director of the Bristol General Cemetery Company, whose death occurred on the 17th July last, leaving estate valued at £83,389 5s 9d. He left to his housekeeper, Mary Jane Walford, £300, his house and furniture and effects except specific bequests to relatives, friends and the Corporations of Bristol and Gloucester, jewellery and personal belongings with his freehold house, 16, Charlotte Street and the income for life of a trust fund of £10,000 as a mark of her faithfulness and care over a period of many years, and £100 to Muller's Orphan Houses at Bristol. He made the following bequests to the Corporation of Bristol, provided they place same in either the Bristol Museum or Art Gallery:- (a) My Bristol cut glass jug, engraved D.W.; (b) old thistle shaped glasses, one large toddy and six liqueur glasses, property of great grandfather; (c) Bristol glazed bisque china basket or flowers; (d) pair Bristol opaque glass vases; (e) my large waxwork called "The Quarrel" and signed by J.V. (John Voysey); (f) such articles from my collection of Voysey works and ivories as the Corporation may select; (g) my collection of fans in cases, and desire that same shall be placed in Art Gallery or Museum, and marked as "Gift in Memory of Late Mother." Three framed old samples of screen work "Shakespeare," Royal Standard "French," five black flags paper "German," large Bristol pottery vase and gold opaque Bristol glass "Cornucopia"; also three dogs and three sheep opaque crystal Bristol ware.
To the Corporation of the city of Gloucester, for the Guildhall or other public building, a large silver vase, with stand, and silver inkstand, "all part of testimonial presented by said city to my grandfather, David Mowbray Walker."
04/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Dale Bennett
We regret to announce the death of Mr John Dale Bennett, of 30, Lancashire Road, St. Andrew's Park, which took place on Saturday evening, after a brief illness, at the age of 64. Deceased has been engaged in war work since the outbreak of hostilities, first at Avonmouth and latterly as an official in the Recruiting department of the Bristol Munitions Area. He was Worshipful Master of St Augustine's Lodge of Freemasons, Province of Bristol, Past Master of St Keyna Lodge, and Worshipful Master of the Carnarvon Mark Lodge in the Province of Somerset, Senior Warden of the Canynges Mark Lodge, Province of Bristol, and he also held office in the Beaufort Chapter of Royal Arch Masons at Bristol. For many years he has been a prominent and highly esteemed member of the Bristol District of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows. He became associated with the Order by joining the Avon Lodge, served in its various offices, and eventually attained to the position of Provincial Grand Master of the District, and rendered excellent service for many years on the District Management Committee. Of a genial disposition, he was esteemed and beloved by all who knew him, and his death will be mourned by a large circle of friends, while much sympathy will be felt for the members of his family in their bereavement.
05/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis James Fry
We regret to announce the death which took place yesterday of Mr Francis James Fry, J.P., D.L., who for some years past has been residing at Cricket St. Thomas, near Chard (of which he was Lord of the Manor), but the greater part of whose life was spent in the city of Bristol, where he was associated with the important business undertaking of Messrs J. S. Fry and Sons, and for some years took an active part in the public life of the city.
Mr Francis James Fry, himself cultured and with strong literary and scientific tendencies, was connected with a family all of whom manifested individuality and great ability in different directions. His father, Mr Francis Fry, F.S.A., who died in 1885, at his residence, Tower House, Cotham, was long known among the biographers of the country as an ardent student of Biblical literature, and his name is remembered on account of the old editions of the Scriptures which he edited and reissued. A prominent politician was the deceased's brother, Sir Theodore Fry, long M.P. for Darlington. Cousins of Mr Francis James Fry were Sir Edward Fry, Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, the Right Hon. Lewis Fry, and Albert Fry. The deceased was born in our city on 18th March, 1835. He was educated at Mr Exley's school, a famous academy in Cotham Road that stood upon the site of the present Congregational College. Many men who became prominent in different walks of life owed their early education to the instruction at Exley's. After he left school Mr Francis James Fry entered the firm of Messrs J. S. Fry and Sons, in Union Street, that celebrated establishment being then very much smaller than the existing factory. For many years he was partner in the firm of which his father and two uncles, Joseph and Richard, had been proprietors. Mr Francis Fry was for a time the only survivor of the three manufacturers. Afterwards the sons of Mr Francis Fry and Mr Joseph Fry, assisted by several of the junior members of the family, managed the affairs of the firm. During the time that Mr Francis James Fry was a partner the premises were at different times considerably enlarged. The splendid factory at the bottom of the Pithay, and extending into Nelson Street, covering an enormous area of ground, was built in 1878, and subsequently other spacious structures in Quay Street, Christmas Street, and St. John's Street, came to be built while Mr Francis James Fry and his cousin, Mr Joseph Storrs Fry remained heads of the great firm which had developed quite a cocoa colony in the centre of the city. When the business became converted into a limited liability company the deceased was a director.
While studying the interests of the company, Mr F. J. Fry was by no means unmindful of other affairs. He was a director of the Bristol Wagon and Carriage Works Company Ltd., which position he retained until a few years ago. In 1886-87 he was Sheriff of the city and county of Bristol, and in 1906 Sheriff of the county of Somerset, and in 1893 was elected alderman, a position he retained for some years. He became justice of the peace for Bristol in 1877, and when he ceased to reside in the city and went to live near Chard he was created a Justice of the Peace for the county of Somerset, and subsequently a Deputy-Lieutenant. Among the appointments which the deceased held were the following:- President of the Fine Arts Academy, a member of the University Council, and a member of the Board of Municipal Charity Trustees, all local; and he was besides a Fellow of the Physical Society of London. He was also President of the Bristol Footpath Preservation Society, and, in that capacity, very closely concerned in several successful proceedings for the protection of public rights. Especially may be mentioned the lengthy proceedings with respect to St. Anne's Ferry, and also the actions in respect of public rights of recreation and common over Walton Common, near Clevedon, right of common over Filton Common, and more recently in the case of rights of way at Alfoxden, near Kilve and Holford, tried in 1915 at Bristol Assize before Lord Coleridge. Mr Fry brought to the consideration of these cases and the evidence in support of the public rights concerned, an extremely calm and well balanced judgement, and this contributed in no small measure to the success which in each case resulted from the support given by the society of which he was President.
Scientific pursuits presented great charm for him, and upon the occasion of a visit of the learned societies to Bristol or places in the neighbourhood - as when the British Association met in Bath and subsequently in our city - he might be seen with his valuable microscope showing and explaining objects to visitors at their soirees.
05/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr V. A. Owens Britton
We regret to announce the death of Mr V. A. Owens Britton at the Bristol Royal Infirmary after a short illness from septic pneumonia, at the age of 55. The deceased was an active Red Cross worker, had been a member of St. John Ambulance for many years, and would have received the long service medal but for illness.. He was a constant attendant at Bristol station on arrival of wounded convoys from the beginning of the war. When the Queen Victoria Convalescent Home was taken over by the Red Cross Society he and his brother volunteered for whole time service, and he held the post of Quartermaster there. He was an active Churchman, and took great interest in everything connected with the Cathedral.When the late Dean started the Sunday evening nave service he became a member of the choir and steward. He was a member of the Cathedral branch of the C.E.M.S. and had been hon. sec. and afterwards hon. treasurer. He was also co-opted a member of the Council of the Bristol Federation of the C.E.M.S. as the hon. sec. of the Lodgings Welcome work.
18/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Rear-Admiral Albert Henry William Battiscombe
Rear-Admiral Albert Henry William Battiscombe, of Eastwood, Montpelier, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, retired Admiral in his Majesty's navy, who died on the 16th September last, aged 87 years, left estate of the gross value of £12,067 16s 4d.
23/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr H. E. Rossiter
The death of Mr H. E. Rossiter at 15, Harcourt Road, Redland, on Wednesday at the early age of 38, robs the forces of social reform in our city of a genial, tactful, and enthusiastic worker. He was for years the secretary of the Sunday Closing Association, and his power of organisation won him and the cause many friends in this city, and secured for him the offer of a tempting post at headquarters in London. But not desiring to leave Bristol where he had many friends, he refused the invitation and accepted the secretaryship of the Railwaymen's Association, with its central work on the R.M.I. on the Bath Bridge. Here he won the confidence of the railway directors and the esteem of a multitude of workers, whose social and moral welfare he served with devotion. He was also chairman of the Billiards League and in this capacity was in close touch with most of the men's clubs in the city. His great enthusiasm for his work led him to associate himself with the promoters of Social Centres in Bristol, and he became the hon. secretary of that movement, and helped to organise the two splendid conferences held this year in the Council Chamber. He visited Manchester and Birmingham in connection with the Commission appointed to draft a Social Centres scheme, and when struck down by influenza he was in the midst of work connected with the uniting of the Social Centre and L.O.C. work in our city, the success of which is likely to make Bristol a pioneer in the provision of recreation and opportunities of social intercourse for the people. He was recently elected a member of the National Council for Social Centres. He was a deacon at Tyndal Church, White Ladies Road. Mr Rossiter will be greatly missed as a strenuous worker, a wise councillor, and loyal comrade in all work tending to uplift and enrich the life of the people. He leaves a widow and a child.
27/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr T. G. Palmer Hallett
Mr T. G. Palmer Hallett died at Claverton Lodge, Bath, on Monday night, at the age of 77. He was a native of Bristol, and at one time a lecturer on political economy at Bristol University College. In politics, Mr Hallett was a Liberal in early life, but became a Liberal Unionist and fought West Wilts as such in 1886, but was defeated by Mr George Fuller. Later he disagreed with his party on Tariff Reform, being a strong Free Trader. Mr Hallett owned property at Galway, and had a residence at that town. His wife, Mrs Lilias Ashworth Hallett, a niece of John Bright, survives him.
24/01/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Edward Perham
We regret to announce the death of Mr W. E. Perham, who passed away yesterday morning, in his 73rd year, after an illness extending over five weeks, for which he recently underwent an operation.
Mr William Edward Perham had practised as a solicitor in Bristol ever since he was admitted in 1867, and he was one of the best known members of the legal profession in the city. He had been associated with the Bristol Incorporated Law Society for a great number of years. He was senior partner in the firm of Perham and Sons, of whom the only surviving partner is Mr Herbert Thomas Perham; the other son, Mr H. H. Perham, having died as the result of an illness contracted whilst on service with the Sportsman's Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers. Mr W. E. Perham was an ardent officer in the old Volunteer Force, and commanded the 3rd Battalion of the Somerset Light Infantry. He retired under the age about fifteen years ago with the rank of lieut-colonel, and received the V.D. decoration. He resided at the Court, Flax Bourton, a house possessing many features of historical and architectural interest.
Mr Perham has left two sons and two daughters. His wife predeceased him by about 13 months.
27/12/1918
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Fishpool Bruin
Mr John Fishpool Bruin, of 13, Clar Road, Cotham, Bristol, retired woollen merchant, whose death occurred on the 29th April last, has left estate valued at £8,663 16s 3d.
08/01/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Geoffrey Gatliff
It is with the deepest regret that we have to record the death of Mrs Geoffrey Gatliff, which took place at Lowestoft on Friday evening, from heart failure. Although she had been in failing health for some little time, it was not until a few days ago that her friends in Bristol knew that her condition was critical, and the most sincere sympathy will be extended to Captain Gatliff, R.E., in his bereavement.
Mrs Gatliff (better known perhaps as Miss Hughes) was appointed headmistress of Colston's Girls School in 1901 when a school was in a position to take full advantage of the changes just at that time beginning to effect secondary education, and it was fortunate for the school that it had as its head a woman whose gift for administration amounted to genius, whose views on education were of the broadest and most progressive type, and whose sound judgement and foresight were always to be trusted. Under her guidance the school developed in all directions - in numbers, in extension of the buildings, and also in the standard and breadth of the education provided. The "Charles Ryland" Library, opened in 1912, is the glory of the school, and betrays on all sides evidence of the care and thought which she bestowed upon every detail of its building and equipment. Her work for the school, however, cannot be estimated by its material and numerical growth only, for she had a higher purpose than this in view, and she always considered that the success of the school depended upon its influence on the characters and ideals of the girls. It was a great source of thankfulness to know that many of her pupils as they passed through the school, did develop a strong sense of responsibility and a willingness to serve which would make them worthy citizens of a great Empire. A personality such as that of Mrs Gatliff, so full of keen enthusiasm and energy, so sympathetic in joy and sorrow, will ever live, in the school which owes so much to her untiring devotion and care, and also in the hearts and minds of many generations of Colston mistresses and girls, for to work with her and under her was an inspiration, and governors, parents, staff, and girls all knew that in her they had a true friend, every ready with wise council and kindly sympathy.
08/11/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Eilen Ingrey Green
Sincere regret will be felt by a large circle of Bristolians to whom during her long residence in the city, she was known, by the announcement of the death at Exeter, of Mrs Eilen Ingrey Green, wife of Mr Frank S. Green, the former manager (for over 20 years) of the Prince's Theatre, Park Row. Mrs Green, who at the time of her death, was Area Inspector of Women (Forage Section, South Western Area), attached to the A.S.C., was a daughter of the late Mr George R. Chapman (for a considerable period conductor of the orchestra at the Prince's Theatre), and a sister of Mr George R. Chapman, who succeeded his father in the same important post at the theatre. The Chapman family have, in the past, been predominantly identified with the theatrical history of the city, and the late Mrs Green had, during her earlier years, been brought into personal contact with a number of the leading actors and actresses who were at various times associated with the Prince's Theatre. Much sympathy in his sad bereavement has been expressed to her husband, Mr Frank S. Green, and to the various members of her family.
14/12/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Redwood
Well-Known Bristol Journalist
The Lord Mayor's Tribute
It is with sincere regret that we announce the unexpected death of Mr William Redwood, for many years chief reporter of the 'Western Daily Press'. He passed away at his residence 55, Arley Hill, yesterday, after a brief illness.
Mr William Redwood was born at Sampford Peverell, Devon, on the 10th August 1851, and was therefore 67 years of age. He received his journalistic training on the 'Tiverton and North Devon Gazette'. In 1876 he joined the reporting staff of the 'Western Daily Press' of which he became Chief Reporter in 1890. In that capacity he had more to do with the promotion of public policy and social welfare in Bristol than most people are aware of. He was never a partisan in any sense of the word, and his pen was at the willing service of any good cause. It is scarcely too much to say that he was the best known journalist in the city. His record of attendance at meetings of the City Council, for instance, went further back than that of even the senior aldermen, and in other branches of public work he had many interesting stories to tell, as well as useful information to impart to those who were succeeding to prominent positions. He enjoyed the complete confidence of the members of the firm Messrs Walter Reid and Son, and since the demise of the partners he had been one of the directors. His relations with the public, as well as with the staff, were always marked by the utmost fairness.
It was a fortunate circumstance for the West of England Press Fund that soon after Mr Redwood came to Bristol he was induced to undertake the honorary secretaryship, for it has been largely through his efforts that the Fund has been built up on a substantial basis, whilst kindred organisations in other parts of the country have merged into the London Press Fund. Mr Redwood had also filled the offices of President, and was lately, on relinquishing the hon. secretaryship, appointed Senior Vice-President. He was one of the first to join the Bristol branch of the Institute of Journalists, of which he became President and Fellow, and he was a member of the Orphan Fund Committee. He was a member of the London Press Fund. For the greater part of his life he was an enthusiastic member of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, and, besides filling various offices in the Bristol District, he acted in an executive capacity, and was a trustee. Before the State took in hand the work of granting old-age pensions, he devoted considerable attention to the subject and wrote a pamphlet, and a copy of this was brought to the notice of Mr Joseph Chamberlain, who at the time was showing marked interest in the subject. Mr Redwood was also a founder of the Society of Devonians in Bristol, of which he was Past President. In Masonic circles too, Mr Redwood did useful work, and was highly esteemed. He was secretary and Past Master of St Augustine's Lodge, of which he was one of the founders, and was associated also with the Beaufort Lodge. He held office in the Provincial Grand Lodge, and in respect of his musical abilities with the cornet, he was P.P.G.O. He was also a member of the Beaufort Chapter of Royal Arch Masters, as well as of the Baldwyn and Dunckerley Lodge of Mark Masons. Having been installed into the chair of the latter, he recently had the delightful experience of receiving from his brethren a substantial contribution to the Press Fund Jubilee appeal. He was a member of the Commercial Rooms and of the Liberal Club.
Mr Redwood was a member of the British journalists who visited Canada in 1907 on the invitation of the Dominion Government, and his contributions to the paper were subsequently published in book form with the title of "Canada as I Saw It".
19/02/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter Reid
We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Walter Reid, which occurred last evening at his residence, The Woodlands, Woodland Road, Tyndall Park. For one who was in his eighty-ninth year Mr Reid enjoyed good health until about ten days ago when he contracted a severe cold, which confined him to the house. It was not, however, until Thursday night that the illness took a serious turn, and the end of a long and honourable career came with surprising quickness.
Mr Reid was a North countryman. His father, Mr John Reid, belonged to South Shields, but his son, Walter was born at Darlington and there he spent his boyhood. Darlington was the first provincial town to make the bold experiment of publishing a daily newspaper, and it also became memorable in the early chapters of railway history. The modern passenger system which plays so great a part in the world may be said to date from the Stockton and Darlington line, opened in 1825, and although this occurred before the advent of Mr Reid, this epoch-making railway made a strong impression upon one who throughout life showed the strongest interest in everything connected with engineering and mechanical development. The line, which had one of its termini in his native town, was the first of the kind in the world; it was several years ahead of its continental successor, and to the end of his long career Mr Reid loved to talk of the early railway days, when every step was in the nature of an experiment, and when even those who had visions of the future scarcely dared picture what the railway enterprise has become. Newspaper life in a Newcastle office claimed Mr Reid's attention, and while a journalistic career might seem to lead away from the natural bent, it was not really so for the story of newspaper work during the past half century has been inseparably linked with new applications of science and wonderful illustrations of mechanical ingenuity. For Newcastle, which thus became the scene of his early work in a newspaper office, Mr Reid always cherished a fondness. Even in his later life, after his interests had been identified with Bristol for 40 or 50 years, he followed the development of the Northern town, read its newspapers, and in conversation frequently quoted it where he thought its enterprise ought to be an inspiration to Bristolians. Mr Reid, while at Newcastle, married Miss Nichol, and he was still resident in his northern home when his work came under the notice of Mr P. Stewart Macliver, who engaged him to come South to provide Bristol with its first daily newspaper.
This momentous step was taken in 1858, and in the 20th century, when daily journals and, indeed, journals which issue many editions in the course of a day, are so familiar as to have become matters of course, it is difficult to realise the courage involved in the enterprise in which these two men were engaged. Writing of a period slightly antecedent to this Mr Alexander Paterson has given an interesting word picture of the conditions: "In the larger towns, the principal papers had begun to be published twice, and in some cases thrice a week, but so far there was still no provincial daily press. Some of the London weekly papers had good sales, more particularly in the towns, but it was only in the newsroom that one was able to catch a glimpse of the daily. The local journals were the only ones ever seen in the houses of the 'middle and labouring classes' and these were for the most part circulated through the medium of clubs ... Today, yesterday's or last week's paper is a thing of no value; fifty years ago tattered and dirty sheets a fortnight or three weeks' old were diligently read from title page to imprint, and sometimes even carefully folded and put aside for future perusal." (These words were written about 16 years ago). And when the provincial daily began to make its appearance, the older school of journalists met the new arrival in a spirit of bemused contempt. The difficulties of daily production were immense. Neither the organisation of the news services nor the telegraphic facilities were comparable with what they have since become, and journalistic progress had been hindered by a fiscal system which taxed paper, the advertisements, and the newspapers themselves. A writer who constituted the entire 'reporting staff' of one of the earliest of penny dailies says: "Their proprietors were laughed at for their trouble by the multitude, while those who did profess to encourage the enterprise paid their penny with a sort of patronising air, and under the impression that the current number would be the last of the venture".The weekly papers would not bestow a word upon the project: the idea was too contemptible for even a thought from them". Another writer has added that "the reporters of the weeklies in those days would hardly recognise the daily men as their professional brethren, and when drawn into conversation in which any of the new venture was mentioned would either profess to be ignorant of its existence, or contemptuously speak of it as 'that rag'".
About half a dozen daily papers had been started, in spite of this adverse environment, but there was not one published between London and Penzance. In this vast untouched area Mr Macliver and Mr Walter Reid came to try the experiment of a daily paper for Bristol and the West of England. For the practical work of that undertaking the greater responsibility fell on Mr Reid. He was not only Editor, but it was to him that others looked when, in arrangement for printing the new sheet, difficulties had to be promptly solved. It is a matter of common knowledge that success followed his efforts, the predictions of critics were falsified, the public became used to a daily paper and demanded it. Mr Reid from the first appeared as an advocate of a policy of civic progress: his early articles indicated a feeling that Bristol had larger responsibilities before it than it had realised, and that the comparative neglect of the port was a subject upon which this young north countryman wrote clearly and strongly. His advocacy therefore became a help to those who desired to see the adoption of a forward policy, and in regard to political matters, his policy of dealing with opponents with impartiality evoked a large body of public approval. The correspondence columns of his paper were open to all schools of thought; all parties found their proceedings fairly reported by members of his staff, and he held firmly to the opinion that ones' own case could be stated without discourtesy to those who took another view.
Thus the first daily of Bristol had the foundations of success. It not only stimulated the interest in national themes, but also quickened a healthy interchange of views, and this tended to the formation of an enlightened public opinion. While many things have changed with the lapse of half a century, some have not. The determination in journalistic work to show absolute impartiality in reports, and fairness in comment, is as potent as ever it was; the temptations of a 'new journalism' have been powerless to vary the principles laid down in 1858, and , in the larger responsibilities of the modern city, the advocacy of well considered progress, and an inculcation of a vigorous belief in Bristol's possibilities are still held to be the duty of those responsible for a daily newspaper. Even in the personal there has been an unusual measure of continuity.
The Bristol "Observer" was started in February 1859, and Bristol's first evening paper, the "Evening News", in 1877. Having outgrown the offices in Broad Street (now absorbed into the block of municipal buildings), new premises were built in Baldwin Street, and occupied in 1885. Mr Macliver's son, Colonel Davis Macliver, died in 1888; and upon the decease of Mr P. S. Macliver, in 1891, Mr Walter Reid became the sole proprietor of these three journals. Subsequently he took his son, Mr W. Nichol Reid, into partnership. Although leaving much responsibility to others, Mr Walter Reid continued his personal oversight to the end of his exceptionally long journalistic career. He had contributed miscellaneous articles to magazines, and in earlier days published a volume of stories; he was a Fellow of the Institute of Journalists, and at one time served as the President of the Bristol District; a member of the National Liberal Club, the Bristol Liberal Club, and the Bristol Commercial Rooms, but his devotion to and sense of responsibility for the conduct of the papers under his charge was so keen that he devoted his energies almost solely to this work.
The celebration of the jubilee of the 'Western Daily Press' possessed a greater interest, because the man responsible for the practical work of initiation still remained at the helm. In February 1908, when the annual dinner of the 'Western Daily Press' 'Chapel' took place, the coming jubilee and Mr Reid's work were the subject of many congratulatory references.
For years Mr Reid was one of the Governors of the Bristol Royal Infirmary, and held a similar position at the Queen Victoria Memorial Convalescent Home. In the welfare of each of these institutions, he took a keen interest. It may not be generally known that it was his suggestion that led to the formation of the University College Colston Society, an organisation that perhaps more than any other helped secure the realisation of a university for Bristol. It occurred to Mr Reid, as he noted the recurring celebrations on November 13, that while the philanthropic side of Edward Colston's activities had received the fullest attention, the educational phases of his work had not been adequately kept in memory. He put this before the late Mr J. W. Arrowsmith, who was keenly interested in the University scheme, and suggested a new Colston Society which would supplement the scope of older societies and strengthen the bands of those who were advocating educational development, especially by the creation of a University with its headquarters in this city. The fear of unduly arousing existing societies made Mr Arrowsmith hesitate about accepting the proposal, but Mr Reid pressed his point, and the University Colston Society was formed. It was already a record of which any institution might be proud. At its annual dinners many notable addresses had been given, and it is beyond doubt that these anniversaries have exercised a potent influence in Bristol and the district, and contributed in no small degree to the promotion of that spirit which has led to princely gifts for the foundation and development of the University. It is naturally a source of pleasure to Mr Reid to realise the happy result that followed his proposal to Mr Arrowsmith, and when in a reminiscent mood he realised also the assistance he was able to give through the 'Western daily Press' at a much earlier period - the period at which the troublesome problem of the reorganisation of old endowed schools of Bristol had to be faced.
Advocates of dock extension found him to be a warm supporter in days when Bristol opinion was divided and it seemed as if a bold step forward would never be taken under municipal auspices. He favoured the dockisation of the river for a long period, but realising the hindrance to it being sanctioned by Parliament was delaying progress, he supported the provision of ocean docks at Avonmouth. In these and many other matters he followed with sympathy Bristol movements, and although he rarely appeared on a public platform, by his newspapers he was able to help in the formation of public opinion and thus bring about the desired result.
Mr Reid lost his wife between thirty and forty years ago, and in more recent times suffered a series of bereavements, the last of these being the death of his only son, Mr W. Nichol Reid, in July, 1915. While feeling the effect of these successive blows, he bore up with wonderful resolution, and showed unabated interest in business matters, philanthropic work, and the questions of the day. Shortly after his son's death a private company was formed to take over the three newspapers, Mr Walter Reid being its chairman. The directorate was composed of experienced members of the staff, together with Mr Walter Reid Warton, Mr Reid's grandson. Mr Reid's death removes one who for nearly fifty-nine years has closely and sympathetically followed the city's fortunes, who looked with satisfaction at the forward strides made since he became one of its citizens, and who showed confidence that has a great future before it.
05/03/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr H. S. Bunce
Many readers will hear with deep regret of the death on Thursday last, after much suffering patiently borne, of Mr H. S. Bunce ("Shapcott Wensley"). Though in indifferent health for some time past, he attended as recently as November last, meetings of the Raleigh Debating Society and the Lewin's Mead Meeting Elocution and Literary Society, the welfare of which he always had at heart. He has been one of the mainstays, one of the leaders of light and learning in connection with both societies for years. His histrionic powers, his argument in debate, his criticisms, given with deliberation, coolness, and justice, his memory when called upon to recite or speak upon any topic, all tended to place him in the highest rank among his many friends. He was bound up with Lewin's Mead Chapel and all its associations from childhood. At the age of 14 he entered the service of Messrs Christopher Thomas Bros. where eventually he attained to the position of chief book-keeper, holding that office until last year. His name and fame will ever be remembered by his writings. Possessing a poet and musical soul, his gift for poetry and rhythm was marvellous. Such works as "From Olivet to Cavalry" (Maunder), "Song of Thanksgiving" (Maunder), "The Banner of St George" (Edgar), a Book of Carols (set to music by the best of composers), "The Gate of Life" (Franco Leoni), cantatas and operettas (such as "Cinderella", "Little Snow White", "The Enchanted Island"), with his lyrics - the best of his writings - are the product of his brain. His hymns appear in many books used in chapels and churches. He wrote, too, many beautiful hymns for children, specially used at Sunday School anniversary services at Lewin's Mead Chapel. His old school in the Croft is indebted to his pen for its school song "Old Bristol" sung all over the world by old boys of the school. The Old Boys' Society song, too, is his, and will never die as long as an Old Croft Schoolboy lives.
23/04/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Victor Davidson
The sad news was received (from Second Lieutenant Griffen, of the Warwick Regiment) by Mr and Mrs Davidson, of 4, Cabot Street, Bedminster, of the death in action of their youngest son, Victor, aged 19. He was shot through the head on Easter Sunday night. He was for many years a choir boy at St John's Church, Bedminster, and was also connected with the C.L.B. of the same church. On the occasion of the opening of the Royal Edward Docks, July 9th, 1906, he sang with the Madrigal Society on the Royal yacht. Before being called to the colours, he was employed at W. D. and H. O. Wills, Raleigh Road branch. A memorial service was held at St John's Church on Sunday evening.
05/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut. T. Featherstone
It is with much regret we record the death on the field of battle of 2nd Lieut. T. Featherstone. He will be remembered in sporting circles as secretary of the Cotham Cricket Club, which post he held for a number of years, and during which time he did sterling work for the club. He resigned his post a short while before the outbreak of war owing to business ties. On the outbreak of war he was one of the first to realise the necessity of helping his country, and joined "Bristol's Own". Later he was successful in receiving a commission in the Worcesters. He was then sent to Egypt where he remained for a short time, being then transferred to another battalion, and proceeded to Salonika, moving up to the Lake Doiran front, where he remain for a considerable period, and together with other good work, rendered a splendid account of himself in obtaining very valuable information, by various devices from the enemy. His loss will be a great blow to his wide circle of friends, by whom he was held in very high esteem.
05/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut Philip Percival Edwards
A well-known and highly-respected young Bristol officer, Philip Percival Edwards, son of Mr and Mrs P. H. Edwards, of 39 Cromwell Road, Montpelier, was killed in action on April 8th last. The deceased officer, previous to the war, had been in business with his father at Lower Castle Street, oil and colour merchants.He joined the 6th Gloucesters on September 4th, 1914, and was granted a commission in the Worcester Regiment, as 2nd Lieutenant, in September 1915. He came home suffering from fever in June 1916, and returned to the front on March 8th, 1917. He was an old S.M.V. Boy, and was well-known, not only in the city, but also in the surrounding districts where he was in the habit of calling for business. He was 25 years of age.
11/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Jefferies
The death occurred at the Hermitage, Shirehampton, yesterday, of Mr John Jefferies, founder of the firm of J. Jefferies and Sons, Ltd., marine engineers, of Avonmouth and Hotwells. The business was started by Mr John Jefferies at Hotwells, and as it expanded, a large branch grew up and greatly developed at Avonmouth. The progress of the business resulted in its being formed into a limited company about eight years ago. Mr John Jefferies was able, despite his great age of 84 years, to take part in the business up to last January but since then ill-health prevented him from doing so. He leaves a widow, two sons, who are associated with the firm, and two married daughters.
19/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James George
Death of A Bristol Crimean Veteran
The ranks of the Bristol Crimean Veterans were thinned on Thursday by the death of Mr James George, bookseller, of Denmark Street. Mr George served in the 3rd Buffs and also on the Royal Navy. He was in the Crimean War and also the China War of '57. For many years he was a volunteer with the Bristol Engineers, and held a long service medal. He possessed three other medals for the Crimea, China and Turkey. Mr George had not been in good health for some time, and the death of his daughter recently following the death of her husband at the front was a severe blow to him. He was one of the original members and most energetic member of the Bristol Veterans' Association. Since his active army duties ended, he has for many years carried on the business of bookseller in the city, and to his widow and family much sympathy is being expressed. Mr George was in his 79th year.
26/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut-Colonel Erskine Magniac
(Temp) Lieut-Colonel Erskine Magniac, Indian Infantry, news of whose death in action on April 27th has now been received, was the youngest son of the late Major General Francis Lane Magniac and Mrs Magniac, of Clifton, and was 34 years of age. He was educated at Clifton College and Sandhurst, and in January 1902, he obtained his commission for the Indian Army, being at first attached to the Somerset Light Infantry. In 1909 he saw active service on the Indian Frontier, and in 1911 he was appointed A.D.C. to Sir Edward Baker, Lieutenant-Governor of Bengal, and in the same year he was gazetted captain. Afterwards he became personal assistant to Sir Archibald Earle, Chief Commissioner of Assam. Colonel Magniac was a keen sportsman, polo player and cricketer. He played for the XI at school and Sandhurst and for North-West India. He was much interested in big game shooting and racing in India, in both of which he achieved considerable success. From 1914-15 he was in charge of his regimental depot at Lahore, and in 1915 he joined his regiment on active service, and was shortly after given the command which he was holding at the time of his death.
31/05/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred E. Caddy
In the presence of a large and representative gathering, the funeral of Mr Alfred E. Caddy, superintendent of the Board of Trade at Avonmouth, took place yesterday at Easton-in-Gordano. Mr Caddy, who was a bachelor, and lived with his maiden sister, at Elmdale, Avonmouth, where he died on Sunday, was at one time assistant-superintendent of the Board of Trade at Avonmouth. He then went to Cork as superintendent, returning to Avonmouth once more to occupy the highest position. He was one of the first members of the Easton-in-Gordano Parish Council, and acted as sidesman at Christ Church, Pill, for many years. He took the greatest interest in everything connected with the parish, where he was much esteemed.
12/07/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr F. W. Gardiner
On Tuesday evening Mrs F. W. Gardiner, who had been spending the afternoon with her married daughter, Mrs J. W. Lewis, on returning to Redcliff, Oldfield Park, Bath, found her husband lying on a landing in a semi-conscious state. He died early yesterday morning. The deceased had practised in Bath for many years. He was the son of the late Dr George Gardiner, of Bristol, and was articled to Messrs Brock and Bruce. In early life he was an expert oarsman, and won many prizes at Bristol as a sculler. For rescuing a man from the river in 1897 Mr Gardiner received the Royal Humane Society's medal and was presented with a silver salver by several fellow citizens. He was a P.M. of the Royal Cumberland Lodge of Freemasons. Two of his sons are in the Army, one a Lieutenant in the Canadians, and the other Lieut Frederick Gardiner of the Yeomanry, was wounded at Gallipoli, after having been invalided home from Flanders with frost bite. He is now in Palestine. Mr Gardiner was 61; he will be buried at Locksbrook Cemetery on Saturday afternoon.
17/07/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Maggs
The death is announced of Mr William Maggs, builder and contractor, of Lodway, Easton-in-Gordano. He was well-known and much-respected in the neighbourhood on the Somerset side of the Avon, and was entrusted with much of the new building around Pill, Lodway, and St George. He was a Churchman and Conservative, possessing a kind and genial nature, which endeared him to many friends in the neighbourhood.
12/09/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Lewis Fry
Distinguished Public Career
Educational & Political Work
Bristol has lost a distinguished citizen by the death in his 90th year of the Right Hon. Lewis Fry, of Goldney House, Clifton, on Saturday, who, with his brothers, the late Sir Edward Fry and J. Storrs Fry, made a trio who lived to a fine old age, with a remarkable example of public spirit and service. Born in Bristol, in 1832, the Right Hon. Lewis Fry was the fourth son of Mr Joseph Fry, who was at that time senior partner in the firm of J. S. Fry and Sons, Union Street. Educated at home and at Mr John Exley's School at Cotham, Lewis, like his distinguished brother, the Right Hon. Sir Edward Fry, turned to the law as a profession, entering the office of Messrs Livett, solicitors, as an articled pupil also going to Chambers in London to study. In 1854 he was admitted as a solicitor and commenced practice in Bristol with the late Mr W. Tanner in Shannon Court and later he became senior partner of the well-known firm of Messrs Fry, Abbot, Pope and Brown. His professional career well fitted Mr Fry for the place he was destined to fill in later life in municipal and State affairs. Whilst still practising as a solicitor he began to take an interest in public life and so multifarious became his duties that he soon ceased to take an active part in the business of his firm so that he could throw himself whole heartedly into civic affairs. For eighteen years Mr Fry did splendid work for the city as a member of the Bristol Council, to which he was first elected as a representative for Clifton in 1866. In 1872 he was elected for St. Philip and Jacob in conjunction with Mr Mark Whitwill and Mr C. J. Thomas, and continued to represent that ward until 1880 when a re-arrangement of the wards of the city took place. He was then returned for St. Philip's South and remained in the Council for another four years when much to the regret of the citizens he found it necessary to retire owing to the pressure of his Parliamentary duties, he having occupied a seat in the House of Commons since 1878.
Pioneer of Education
Mr Fry was always keenly interested in education, and it was therefore fitting in 1871, when the School Board was formed in Bristol, that he should be one of its first members and that his fellow members, recognising his high qualifications, should elect him to the position of chairman of the board. Mr Fry's reply to this confidence and commitment was: "It will be my earnest endeavour to assist in carrying the Act into effect in a wise and liberal spirit without regard to sect or party." In those days there were only 18,628 children in the public schools of Bristol.
At the instance of Mr Fry, the Bishop of Hereford (then Canon Percival), and other members, the Board laid down the lines on the question of religious teaching which were subsequently adopted by nearly all the School Boards in England. Mr Fry's tact, wide knowledge, and moderation in the interpretation of the clauses of the Act proved invaluable to the Board, and the members harmonized in the work with the best results. Mr Fry was chairman of the first three Boards - a period of nine years. Then, owing to the demands of his Parliamentary duties, he retired. In a speech that was made to the vote of thanks to Mr Fry, it was stated that he had been the most perfect and best chairman any school Board could possibly find, and that the Board and the citizens would experience a great loss. Apart from his work in the School Board, Mr Fry showed a keen interest in education in other directions. He was one of the original founders of Bristol University College, becoming on the death of his brother Mr Albert Fry, chairman of that body. With many other prominent citizens Mr Fry recognized the great value a university would be to a commercial city like Bristol, and displayed much enthusiasm in promoting the scheme which resulted in the establishment of the present University, the charter for which was granted in 1909. Mr Fry, who had subscribed generously to the funds, was elected to the chairmanship of the Council and became a Pro- Chancellor, in both of which capacities he rendered valued services and materially promoted the welfare of the University College. Mr Fry was president of the College Colston Society in 1905, and he was supported at the annual dinner by such distinguished guests as the then Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, and Sir Oliver Lodge.
Mr Fry took part in the successful efforts which placed the Museum and Library Institution on an improved basis when it was removed to the top of Park Street, and he actively co-operated with Canon Percival and other leading citizens in the Evening Classes Association. For many years he was a member of the Governing Body of Clifton College, and President of the High School for Girls, Clifton.
Advocate for Better Housing
Always in sympathy with the poor, Mr Fry took a very prominent part in Bristol in the work of the Committee for promoting the Better Housing of the Poor, and was President of that body. Mr Fry did not look to any general housing of the working classes by municipalities as a likely solution to the problem, but considered that where numbers of persons were dispossessed of their houses by improvement schemes, or by legal action on the part of municipal authorities, provisions should be made where necessary for the re-housing of these persons. He held the opinion that housing by municipalities on any large scale tended to create a privileged class of tenants, enjoying greater advantages than other members of the working class who had to contribute to local taxation. He looked very largely to increased facilities of locomotion and the consequent emigration of the working classes to distant suburbs as an important means of solving the housing problem.
Political Career
Mr Fry served his native city long and well as a Member of Parliament. He was a man of conscientious judgement, of lofty aims and natural dignity, and his motto throughout his distinguished public career was "Be just, and fear not." His first entrance into Parliament was in 1878, when, on the resignation of Mr Kirkman Hodgson, who accepted the Chiltern Hundreds in consequences of ill-health, Mr Fry was adopted by the Bristol Liberal Committee as their candidate, his opponent being Sir Ivor Guest (afterwards Lord Wimborne). The contest was short but spirited, and over 17,000 voters went to the poll on December 14th, with the result that Mr Fry's majority was 1,547, an increase of over 1000 upon the three previous elections - larger by several hundreds than had ever been polled by any candidate for the presentation of the city since the passing of the Reform Act in 1832. His arrival in Parliament is declared to have had an important bearing on the course of those memorable political events which culminated in the General Election and overthrow of the Beaconsfield Administration in 1880. In the March of that year there were many lively election meetings in Bristol, and the polling took place on April 2nd., with the following result: Mr Fry 10,070, Sir Iver Guest 9,395, Mr Robinson (an independent candidate) 4,100.
A Keen Contest
The year 1885 was an important one in the political career of Mr Fry. By the Redistribution of Seats Act, Bristol was divided into four single-membered constituencies, and on November 25th of that year, Mr Fry contested the North Division, his Conservative opponent being Mr C. E. H. A. Colston. The election was a keenly contested one, and Mr Fry was returned with a majority of 1,064, the number of votes polled by him being 4,110. In recognising the honour, Mr Fry said it was the most gratifying moment of his life to find himself returned to Parliament under such circumstances, a third time for his native city. It was in 1885 that Mr Gladstone put his Home Rule Bill before Parliament, following which there was a split in the Liberal Party. In a lengthy printed address to his constituents, Mr Fry announced that he did not agree with the Home Rule proposals. He ably defended his views, claimed that his opinions had not changed, and his sincerity was undoubted. But great bitterness was aroused, and in the course of his electoral campaign as a Liberal-Unionist there were many stormy meetings. After one of these meetings at St. James's Hall he had to be protected from violence on his way to his committee room by the police and his friends. Mr Fry was opposed by Dr Alfred Carpenter, but at the election he was returned by a majority of 850, his votes numbering 3,587. In his speech after the declaration of the poll, Mr Fry said: " I believe throughout this contest the majority of the electors approved of the course which I have pursued, but I hardly ventured to suppose we should win this battle with the splendid majority we have." His published address of thanks contained these words: " While I claim to have acted from a sense of public duty, I desire to give full credit for a similar motive to those of my friends and former supporters who have felt bound to oppose me on this occasion; and trust that any unpleasantness that may have arisen in the heat of the constant may now be forgotten." In 1892 Alderman Charles Townsend was selected by the Liberals to oppose Mr Fry. There was a prevailing feeling in the country that Mr Gladstone should have the opportunity of formulating another Home Rule Bill, and that was one great influence in determining the election, which went against the Unionist party. Mr Townsend won the election by 345 votes out of 8,473. In his address of thanks to his supporters Mr Fry said the poll was a largely increased Unionist vote as compared with 1886, and "although defeated I am firmly convinced that the course of events will before long show that the principles we have advocated are right and just. Much as I prize the representation of my fellow citizens in Parliament, I would far rather have lost my seat than have sacrificed my political convictions to party needs or political ambition." Mr Fry was not destined to be excluded from Westminster for any long period. In July 1895, he was again elected by his old constituency by a majority of 238 over Alderman Charles Townsend. Their respective votes were 4,702 and 4,464. This success Mr Fry termed "a signal victory after a severe contest."
This was the beginning of the end of Mr Fry's useful Parliamentary career for in 1900 he wrote to Alderman J. Wesley Hall, the Chairman of the Bristol North Unionist Committee, announcing his wish to retire. In his letter he said: " I need not enlarge upon the reasons of a personal character that have influenced me in coming to this decision. At my age the burdens of public, and especially of political life are not lightly borne; and having rendered twenty years service in the House of Commons as member of my native city, I feel that I may now rightly ask to be relieved from the numerous and absorbing duties and responsibilities which that important position necessarily involves." The announcement was received with genuine regret throughout the constituency. During his twenty years in Parliament, Mr Fry rendered valuable service, not only to the constituency he so ably and conscientiously represented, but to the State generally. He was recognised as an ideal hard-working member and his work on various Parliamentary committees was especially valued.
Grateful Constituents
At the end of his Parliamentary career, many were the appreciations of his services. In May, 1901, his constituents presented him with a handsome silver salver and bowls. In the following year a complimentary banquet was given to Mr Fry at the Royal Hotel, at which letters were read from Mr Balfour and Mr Chamberlain, referring to Mr Fry's great services to the cause of Unionism, his firm grasp of public principles, directness of purpose, and absolute and disinterested honesty.
A distinction much coverted, namely to be made a Privy Councillor, was conferred upon Mr Fry in 1901. This was only a few weeks before the death of the late Queen, and Mr Fry was not admitted a member of the Council until after her death, but immediately upon it was summoned by telegram to Marlborough House, where he was sworn in.
Local Associations
Mr Fry, who was a member of the Society of Friends, was a Justice of the Peace and a Deputy-Lieutenant for Gloucestershire. He identified himself with many philanthropic and other public bodies in the City, and was Chairman of the Colston Hall Co., Chairman of the Council of the Bristol Charity Organization Society, a member of the Anchor Society, the General Society, the Benevolent Institution, the School of Science and Art, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Commercial Travellers' Association.
Mr Fry, in 1858, married Elizabeth Pease, daughter of the late Mr Francis Gibson, a banker, of Saffron Walden, Essex. That lady died in 1870, leaving two sons and three daughters.
Although not so much before the public in recent years, Mr Fry gave active and valued support to various schemes and institutions.
Mr Lewis Fry, after his retirement from Parliament, withdrew entirely from public life, and was only seen occasionally in local and other social functions. For some time he was seen driving about, but latterly has been confined to the house. The funeral service on Tuesday at the Cathedral, at 2.30 p.m. will be a public service, and no personal invitations will be issued.
07/08/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr W. J. H. Pinniger
Dr W. J. H. Pinniger died on Saturday at Widcombe Villa, Richmond Hill, Clifton, after a long illness. He was the son of the late Thomas Large Pinniger of Beckhampton, Wilts, and Mrs Pinniger of Clifton. He was educated at Colchester House, Clifton, and Clifton College, and received his professional education at University College, Bristol, King's College and University College, London. He qualified with the diploma of M.R.C.S. (Eng), L.R.C.P. (London) in July 1905, and took his M.B., B.S. of the University of London, the same year, and his M.D., London, in 1907. As a student he gained many honours, and at the end of his course was awarded the Committee Gold Medal as the most distinguished man of his year. Through practically the whole of his medical career, he was connected with the Bristol General Hospital, having held in succession all the resident posts, including that of Senior House Surgeon during an interregnum, and afterwards as Curator of the Museum and Surgical Registrar. He was also House Surgeon at the Jessop Hospital for Women at Sheffield.
Dr Pinniger was at one time on the staff of the Bristol Dispensary but resigned on his appointment as medical officer to Mullers Orphanages, which post he held at the onset of his illness. He was also medical officer to the Bristol Lying in Hospital and Temporary Home. Of a retiring disposition, he took no part in public affairs, but was an enthusiastic Churchman and a keen politician. He married the twin daughter of the late Rev. W. Blake Atkinson, of Weston-super-Mare, and leaves a daughter and two sons.
02/10/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Bright
We regret to announce the death, at his residence, Victoria Square, Clifton, of Mr George Bright, an ex-Sheriff of the city, and formerly associated for many years with the Old Bank at Bristol. Mr George Bright was the fourth son of the late Mr Robert Bright, of Abbot's Leigh, who was so prominently identified with the free port movement, for his services in connection with which he was presented with a service of gold plate, which now forms part of the treasures at the Art Gallery. Born in May 1826, at Abbot's Leigh, he was educated at Winchester College, and afterwards at Haileybury, whence he passed out second with high honours and distinction in English composition and classics, and entered the Bengal Civil Service in 1847. After serving 26 years he retired as Judge of the District of Hooghly in 1872. Soon after his return to England, he became manager at Stuckey's Bank at Wells, Somerset, and in 1875 he became a partner in the Old Bank at Bristol, where he remained for several years. Mr Bright served the office of Sheriff of Bristol in 1875. He was twice married, first to Eleanor Georgina, daughter of the late Mr Thomas McCausland, of Drenagh, Limayady, Ireland, by whom he had one son, who died. His second wife was the oldest daughter of the late Henry T. Raikes, Judge of the High Court of Calcutta. There were three sons and four daughters, the youngest son having been killed in action at Paarsdeburg in the Boer War in 1900. One of the daughters is the wife of Mr Charles Budgett.
05/10/1917
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George Webster
Mr George Webster, of Hazlewood, Keynsham, and of Albert Road, St Philip's, Bristol, hide, skin, and fat commission agent, who died on the 5th August last, has left estate valued at £20,952 18s 9d.
13/10/1917
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Edward Robertson
Mr William Edward Robertson of Frenchay Lodge, Frenchay, Bristol, railway contractor, whose death occurred on April 6th last, left estate valued at £19,418 14s.
20/10/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Joseph Byerley
A well-known citizen has passed away by the death of Mr Joseph Byerley, which took place on Thursday morning, at 34, Egerton Road, Bishopston, in his 81st year. Deceased, who was a commercial traveller, was one of Bristol's first Volunteers, and was well known, not only in Bristol, but throughout the surrounding country, as a very keen angler. He had a fund of anecdote, and was a most entertaining companion. His death will be mourned by a very large circle of friends.
03/11/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Dove Willcox
A Leading Bristol Tariff Reformer
We regret to announce that the death of Mr W. Dove Willcox occurred yesterday at his residence, Brocksholme, Redland Green.
Mr William Dove Willcox was a Lancastrian, having been born at Chorley, on the 16th August, 1845, and was, therefore, in his 73rd year. The son of the Rev. P. M. Willcox, he was related on his mother's side to a well-known Lancashire family, which for centuries owned the Bowland estate in the Northern county. After being privately educated, mainly by the Rev. J. S. Boucher, Mr Dove Willcox, coming to Bristol as a youth, entered the leather trade, and became a partner in the well-known firm of Dove and Willcox, leather factors, Victoria Street. With this business he was associated for the whole of his commercial career, helping to make it one of the leading houses in this part of the country. In 1908 following the death of his only son at an early age, he relinquished control of Dove and Willcox, but he did not retire altogether into private life; some connection with and influence in the leather trade being retained by him as a director of Messrs Parker Bros. Ltd., tanners, Bedminster.
For a long period of years Mr Dove Willcox was a well-known figure in local trade and commerce, and gained the respect of all with whom he came into contact. As an active member of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and Shipping - of which he was President in 1889-90 and 1890-91 - he did much to promote the interests of the city and port, and his services in carrying through various useful schemes were much appreciated alike by employers and employed. Appointed to the Magisterial Bench in 1894, he discharged his duties as justice of the peace with marked ability and dignity whilst his reputation for fair dealing and impartiality led to his being chosen for the responsible position of umpire to the Bristol Boot and Shoe Trade Arbitration Board, in which post he delivered many important decisions, which prevented trouble and promoted the interests of the trade.
During a large portion of his life, Mr Dove Willcox was actively associated with the Liberal Party and a supporter of local organizations with the Redcliff Ward Liberal Association in the days when the ward was a stronghold of Conservatism. In later years he became an ardent advocate of Tariff Reform, mainly through the columns of the 'Daily Press' and in doing so he occupied a fairly large share of public attention. He and the late Mr G. E. Spear were two of the most thoughtful and argumentative of Tariff Reformers in the Bristol district. Mr Dove Willcox being much obsessed with this subject, was disappointed to find that old Liberal friends, who agreed with him in regard to practically everything else, were not convinced by the arguments which he frequently expressed in conversation as well as in public print. In religion Mr Dove Willcox was a Wesleyan of the old-fashioned type, and when a young man he had a strong inclination to enter the ministry. Practically all his life he was associated with Portland Chapel, Kingsdown, of which he was one of the chief supporters. Members of his family have taken a very active part in social and mission work in Bristol.
social and mission work in Bristol.
15/11/1917
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Henry Mason
Mr William Henry Mason, of 12, Victoria Street, Clifton, Bristol, watchmaker, whose death occurred on the 19th May last, left estate of the gross value of £5,212 18s 8d.
06/09/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Owens
Many Bristolians will regret to hear of the death of Mr James Owens, which took place at his residence, Lynwood, Brislington, on Tuesday. Mr Owens, who had reached the age of 72, was a native of Bristol and was educated at the Old Bristol Trades School. Upon leaving school he entered his father's business in Victoria Street as a grocer and provision merchant, and upon the latter's retirement in 1868 he took over the sole control, continuing until 1899, when he relinquished it and devoted himself to public work. In 1897 he joined the Old Incorporation of the Poor, and one year later, upon the establishment of the Bristol Board of Guardians, he was returned as one of its first members for the Redcliff Ward. Mr Owen's abilities as a practical administrator were soon recognised, and in 1900 he was elected chairman of the Provisions Committee, including Assessment and Finance, and has taken a great interest in the annual treats for the aged inmates and the children in the Scattered Homes. At the Brislington Parish Council election of 1906, Mr Owens was one of the successful candidates. For twenty years he has taken an active part as a sidesman in the religious life of Temple Church and was elected warden at the last Easter vestry meeting. He leaves a widow, two sons, and three daughters. The younger son was one of the first to join "Bristol's Own" and is now serving on the tanks in France.
24/01/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Harold A. Rich
His Life For His Country
An Officer's Tribute
Private Harold A. Rich of the 12th Gloucesters (Bristol's Own), who fell in action in France on January 8th, was the youngest son of the last Mr J. Rich, of 4, Belmont Road, Brislington. Prior to enlisting he had from boyhood been in the employ of Messrs Stotesbury, engineers' outfitters, Victoria Street, and he was highly respected by every member of the firm's staff.
In acquainting his mother of the sad event his officer wrote:- "He died almost instantaneously as a result of the bursting of a bomb, probably thrown from a German catapult."
25/01/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut-Commander Edgar Christopher Cookson, D.S.O., R.N.
The late Lieut-Commander Edgar Christopher Cookson, D.S.O., R.N.
who as announced on Saturday, has been awarded the Victoria Cross in recognition of gallant action on September 28th, 1915, during the advance on Kut-el-Amara, was the younger son of the late Captain W. E. Cookson, R.N. and of Mrs Cookson, of 15, Royal Park, Clifton. The deceased officer was 31 years of age, and was educated at Hazelhurst, and entered the Britannia in September 1897. He served as a midshipman on board H.M.S. Dido, on the China station, and took part in the Boxer Rebellion.
During the present war he took part in the defence of the Suez Canal, and was afterwards attached to the Expeditionary Force operating from the Persian Gulf. He was awarded the D.S.O. in the Shatt-el-Arab, the official record being as follows:-
"Lieut-Commander Cookson was conducting a reconnaissance up a creek of the Euphrates in the armed launch Shusam on May 9th, 1915, when he was heavily attacked by Arabs concealed in the reeds. Although severely wounded early in the action, he resumed command after his wound had been temporarily dressed, and succeeded in most ably extricating the vessel from a perilous position under heavy rifle fire."
09/02/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Henry Nicholson Ellacombe
The death occurred on Monday afternoon of the Rev. Henry Nicholson Ellacombe, hon. Canon and Vicar of Bitton. Since March last year, Canon Ellacombe has been in poor health, and only rarely since then has he been allowed to officiate at the Bitton church. Early this year his health became a matter of anxiety to his friends, and early in January it was announced in the 'Western Daily Press' that his condition was becoming critical. His great age militated against him wrestling successfully against a long illness, for he had reached his 94th year. He not only was amongst the oldest of the West country clergy, but also in the long period in holding the same benefice, for he was 65 years vicar of Bitton.
His work as a churchman was recognised by his being made a Rural Dean of Bitton in 1874, and a Bristol honorary Canon in 1881. The late Canon and his father - who was also a Canon - have ministered at Bitton for the major part of a century, and both father and son were literary men, although their published works were marked by different schools of thought. The late Canon's father was the author of the two large folio volumes of Kingswood Manuscripts, a copy of which has been preserved in the Bristol Central Library, in which he deals with numerous manorial, social and industrial matters concerning Bitton and its environs, including the Kingswood forest. Leading works of his son, the subject of this obituary notice, dealt with floriculture, in which he took delight, and on which he wrote with the pen of an enthusiast. Nothing delighted the late Canon more in his leisure hours than to take some expert gardener over his beautiful Bitton garden and discuss some interesting point of botany. Such visitors came from Kew and other leading botanical gardens in the country, as well as from the continent, and the result of his research was set forth in various interesting works, the best known of which are probably, "A Gloucestershire Garden", "Garden Craft in Shakespeare", and "My Vicarage Garden and Elsewhere". It is not surprising, therefore, that the village gardeners of Bitton regarded the Canon's words on gardening as an oracle concerning which there was no gainsay.
In the early Victorian period he took his degree of M.A. following his college life at Oxford. He was a deacon and priest in the Lichfield diocese in 1847, and came to Bitton as vicar in 1850. In many respects he was a typical country vicar, for he always preferred the surroundings of gardens and green fields to those of bricks and mortar. He retained characteristics of the Victorian age, and was noted for his fixity of purpose when he had decided that a course to be pursued was the right one, and on occasion he exhibited a dry tone of humour in his conversation. The older residents will miss a paternal minister and a good friend, and his death removes a leading landmark in the Bitton parish.
The deceased's family are a son, Dr G. Ellacombe, and several daughters, one of whom is the wife of the Rev. Herbert Cookey, whose benefice adjoins that of Bitton, viz St Anne's, Oldland, and another the wife of Captain Campbell. There are also two other daughters. Mrs Ellacombe pre-deceased the Canon some years ago. The funeral takes place at Bitton tomorrow.
02/03/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edwin George Tyrrell
We regret to announce the death of Mr Edwin George Tyrrell, which took place yesterday, at his residence, The Polygon, Clifton. The deceased gentlemen, who had a very wide circle of friends in Bristol, was the Inspector of Evening Classes under the Bristol Educational Committee, and was well-known in connection with various educational agencies in the city. Mr Tyrrell was in his 74th year. Amongst the posts he had occupied in a long and active career were those of headmaster of Clifton National Boys' School, headmaster of Cheltenham College Practising School, late examiner of pupils at the Asylum for the Blind, tutor at the late Dr Stephenson Jellie's Military Establishment, and had been connected with the Grammar School and Bristol Cathedral School. For many years he was a voluntary organiser of the Fresh Air Fund for Bristol, and for 21 years he was actively connected with the Children's Help Society. A keen worker in all temperance movements in the city of Bristol, he was also greatly interested in the Workers' Educational Association. He was a familiar figure in the city.
22/03/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Wethered
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry Wethered, an esteemed citizen, who expired at his residence, Woodland Road, Tyndall's Park, yesterday morning at a quarter to ten o'clock, in his 88th year. His son and daughter were present at the time of his decease.
Mr Wethered was born at Little Marlow, came to Bristol sixty-two years ago, and he has resided here since. He never desired a public life, preferring the contentment of his own surroundings, and at the same time striving to promote the happiness of others in an undemonstrative way. When he left his home at Little Marlow he came to Clifton in 1853, and during his business career he had to bear the strain of heavy responsibilities. He, however, found relief in Leigh Woods, which reminded him of the beautiful scenes where his boyhood was spent. He chiefly delighted in studies of the trees which are the glory of that attractive locality.
For many years the deceased was greatly interested in the coal trade in the neighbourhood of the city. Mr Henry Wethered, with his brothers Joseph and Edwin, joined their brother-in-law, Mr Handel Cossham, in colliery enterprises, first at Parkfield and later at Kingswood; and for a short time, their father, Mr William Wethered, was associated as a proprietor. These collieries, which were developed more and more until they comprised about 3,000 acres of freehold mineral property, and gave employment to an average of 1,500 workpeople, were also interesting from the fact that some important geological discoveries were made in the course of the working. In the year 1878, the firm was turned into a limited company for the purchase of the interest held up to that time by Mr Henry Wethered and his brothers. Subsequently the colliery property passed almost entirely into the possession of Mr Cossham and Mr H. O. Wills.
The deceased was interested in the management of some local financial undertakings. Forty or fifty years ago he was concerned with the late Mr Williams (accountant) in conducting the Bristol Marine Insurance Company, and for 35 years Mr Henry Wethered acted as director of the London and South Western Bank, whose Bristol branch is at the corner of Corn Street and Small Street.
He was an ardent Liberal, and took an active part in Bristol elections when Mr Samuel Morley and Mr K. D. Hodgson became the representatives of the city in Parliament, entertaining Mr Hodgson at his residence, Devon House, Kingsdown Parade. Subsequently the deceased removed to 8, Woodland Road, Tyndall's Park, which, with a space adjoining, he purchased, the additional ground enabling him to manifest his love of flowers. Not only did he delight in horticulture, but he manifested talent as a poet as well as a painter. Some of his pictures were exhibited at the Fine Arts Academy in Queen's Road, and as to his poetry, a delicate lyric set to music was appreciated when given at the Victoria Rooms. It is an extraordinary circumstance that not until he was 73 years of age did Mr Wethered give an expression to his poetical feelings; and another curious fact in connection with his attainments was that he was a self-taught artist, and did not handle a brush till he was 49 years of age. He must have possessed an inborn love of Art to have been able to do what he did. In connection with his own work in the direction of painting may be mentioned the circumstance that Mr Swaish, the eminent local portrait painter, was commissioned by Mr Wethered's fellow bank directors to paint his portrait, and it is hung in the board room in London.
The deceased's sister, Miss Elizabeth Wethered, in 1848 married Mr Handle Cossham. She has been dead some years. His surviving brother, Mr Edwin Wethered, is a Poor Law Inspector, and in that capacity occasionally visits Bristol. His son, Mr E. H. C. Wethered (named after Mr Handel Cossham) is the well-known barrister of the Western Circuit, who has an office in Albion Chambers.
16/04/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. F. J. Bullen
The death occurred suddenly on Thursday evening of the Rev. F. J. Bullen, who for the past three years was curate at St Silas, Bristol. Deceased was on a visit to a friend at Knowle, and died from heart failure before medical aid could be procured. The late Mr Bullen was at Gloucester College in 1886 and was ordained deacon in 1887 and priest in the following year. As curate he was at St Philip and Jacob from 1887 to 1890, and at Klive, Somerset, 1890-91. At Littleton-on-Severn he was rector 1891-97, and later went to Southampton, and thence to St Silas, Bristol.
18/04/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick William Stoddart
Mr Frederick William Stoddart, consulting analyst, who passed away on Saturday, after a short illness, at his residence, Grafton Lodge, Sneyd Park, at the age of 57, was the eldest surviving son of Mr W. W. Stoddart, a chemist of North Street, Stoke Croft, who was the first city analyst. Mr F. Wallis Stoddart first took to surgery, but on his father's death, succeeded him in the office named. When the City Council decided to appoint an analyst who would devote the whole of his time to the duties, Mr Stoddart resigned, and Mr Edward Russell received the appointment. Mr Stoddart will be remembered as the inventor of a patent method of dealing with sewage bacteriologically, which has been adopted by over seven hundred corporate and other bodies in all parts of the world. It was first adopted at Horfield, but the sewage works were abandoned when the boundaries were extended. The rights were transferred to Mr Charles Walker, of Denmark Street, a few years ago.
23/06/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Herbert Meade-King
We regret to record the death of Mr Henry Herbert Meade-King, who passed away yesterday morning at 19, Royal York Crescent, Clifton at the age of 79. The deceased gentleman was a well-known figure in the city and the district, and was one of the oldest solicitors of Bristol. He was the fourth son of Mr R. K. Meade-King of Walford, near Taunton, and was articled to Mr L. O. Bigg, of this city. He was admitted a solicitor in 1882, eventually becoming a partner with Mr Biggs, and continued to practice in Bristol until his retirement in 1911. He married Miss C. A. C. Clark, elder daughter of Mr G. C. Clark, of Ellenthorp, Tasmania, who died in 1884. There are two sons in the business of Meade-King, Cooke, Wansey, and John Miller, formerly of Baldwin Street, and now of 24, Orchard Street, and the deceased also leaves a daughter.
05/07/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Louis P. Nott
The death of Mr Louis P. Nott, of Stoke House, Stoke Bishop, has removed in the prime of life a citizen who was keenly interested in the social betterment of the people, and who for many years had been especially prominent in the promotion of temperance and religious work in this city.
Mr Nott became associated with the late Mr T. A. Walker when that gentleman was engaged in the construction of the Severn Tunnel and was thus able to become conversant with the details of that remarkable engineering scheme. He married a daughter of the famous contractor, and later became personally responsible for the execution of important railway and dock works. The fact is locally interesting that about the time the Royal Edward Dock was being constructed by the celebrated London firm of John Aird and Co., a Bristolian - Mr Nott - was entrusted with the execution of a corresponding project at Liverpool. At one period Mr Nott was returned to the Council for the District Ward, but remained for a short time only a member of that assembly. To the cause of temperance he devoted much time, and on several occasions headed deputations when it was desired to place before the Licensing Justices the views of those who desired the curtailment of drinking facilities. His interest in temperance work was part of his devotion to religious work in general. On several occasions he lent his support to important missions conducted in this city, and Gideon Chapel - the old place of worship in Newfoundland Road with which Mr George Muller and Mr Cralk were for some time the pastors - in its recent history owed very much to Mr Nott, who assumed a large share of responsibility for its maintenance and services. He also carried on a mission at Salford, near Manchester. Mr Nott had been ill for several weeks, and passed away at 10.15 last night. His death will be widely regretted, and the deceased gentleman will be much missed in the sphere in which he was so conspicuous a figure.
29/07/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Captain Arthur E. Stone
An official telegram was received in Bristol yesterday, announcing the death of Captain Arthur E. Stone, who was killed in action in France on the 24th inst. Captain Stone was well known in the city from his connection with Messrs George White and Co., in whose office he had been for about 20 years. At the outbreak of the Boer War, in 1899, he volunteered with the North Somerset Imperial Yeomanry, and was one of those who formed the guard of honour when Lord Roberts entered Pretoria. Captain Stone will be remembered as Sir George White's private secretary for many years. He possessed exceptional business quantities and was entrusted with very important business matters. He rendered valuable service at the time of the formation of the London United Tramways, and later when the business of the British and Colonial Aeroplane Company began to develop, he was selected to control the financial arrangements, and was actively engaged in that capacity up to the time of the outbreak of war. He was an old artilleryman, and had always a great interest in the Bristol Artillery Volunteers in which he served successively as gunner, bombardier, sergeant, and later obtained his commission.
On the outbreak of war in August, 1914, he was one of the most vigorous recruiting officers in the South Midland Royal Field Artillery, and was successful in obtaining a large number of recruits. Shortly after his brigade left for France he was appointed captain, and showed marked aptitude as an officer, so much so that he had recently been appointed to the command of a battery. His Brigadier General, in writing to his relatives, speaks of him "as a gallant officer and an excellent battery commander, in whom he placed the greatest confidence".
Captain Stone had the happy knack of making friends wherever he went, and was held in the highest esteem and affection by the members of the firm, as also by the whole staff at Clare Street House and at the Aeroplane Works at Filton, and his loss will be keenly felt by his many friends and the men of his battery.
01/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Major C. E. Coates
This officer was the second son of Mr and Mrs W. I. Coates, Osbourne Road, Clifton. He joined the volunteers in 1902 as a private and received his commission as second lieutenant in 1904. He went to France with his battalion in April, 1915, as captain, and was promoted major in the autumn of the same year. He was killed in action on the 22nd inst. For several years Major Coates was on the staff of Messrs Wedmore and Co., Bristol Bridge. His brothers, Lieutenant-Colonel P. L. Coates, Royal Warwick Regiment, and Captain D. B. Coates, Gloucestershire Regiment, are both in France, the latter having been wounded on the 14th inst.
04/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut E C Stagg
Much sympathy has been extended to Mrs Stagg, who not only lost her husband in January last, but has received a communication that her youngest son, Arthur C. Stagg, belonging to the York and Lancaster Regiment, has been wounded and is lying seriously ill in hospital in France, and a further communication from the War Office respecting the death of another son, Lieut E. C. Stagg, of the Gloucesters, who was killed in action in France on July 18th last.
Lieut Stagg was a son of the late Mr J. W. Stagg, for many years on the staff of the Ashton Court Estate. He was born in 1890 and received his education at the Merchant Venturers Technical College, Bristol, whence he entered the offices of the Royal Insurance Co. Ltd., Corn Street, Bristol, and remained there until made a life inspector at the outbreak of war. For love of his country he sacrificed a good position and enlisted in the 12th Gloucesters (Bristol's Own), and after being in training with them for nine months at the White City, he was offered a commission in the 1st Gloucesters. The examinations at the Officers' Training School, St. Albans, and the Signalling Schools at Tidworth and Chiseldon he passed with distinction, being sent to France in January last. While there he held a responsible post as signalling officer, and was connected in some little way with the capture of the German machine gun now in Bristol. He received his second star not long after arriving in France.
01/08/1916
Western daily Press
Obituary
Captain E. W. Bird
The announcement of the death of Captain E. W. Bird will occasion sorrow in a wide circle of friends locally. Like many other great hearted young fellows, he responded to the call directly the need arose for men, and with the men of his company as well as his brother officers he was very popular. He was the son of Mr John Bird, stockbroker, of this city, and prior to the outbreak of war was on the staff of Lloyd's Bank. In addition to being a keen sportsman, he had much ability as a musician, and with his brother, Lieutenant J. O. Bird, of the Gloucestershire Hussars, was a member of the Bristol Amateur Operatic Society. The gallant young officer was to have married shortly to Miss Marjorie Turner, step daughter of Mr Boyce, late manager of Lloyd's Bank, Tetbury, and preparations for this wedding had already been made.
07/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Godfrey Hugh Pitman
Fishponds Territorial Killed
Official notification has been received that Private Godfrey Hugh Pitman, second son of Sergt. Pitman, who is attached to the "D" Division Bristol Police Force, has been killed in action in France.
Private Pitman, who was only 22 years of age, joined the Gloucesters only last February, had only been at the front two months. He was well known in Fishponds, where his parents resided and was for a number of years in the employ of Mr W. F. Daniell of Cheapside, whose only daughter, Miss Beatrice S. Daniell, he married the week after Easter last. The official intimation states that he was killed in action on July 17th.
07/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Edwin Frederick Butson
News has reached Bristol of the death in action of Private Edwin Frederick Butson, Somerset Light Infantry, second son of Mr and Mrs E. Butson, 18, York Road, Easton, and husband of Mrs Edith Butson, 65, Hayswards Road, Barton Hill. The deceased volunteered soon after the outbreak of hostilities, and served many months in France, during which time he was twice wounded. Prior to the war he was employed by Messrs Lysaght and Sons. His loss will be deeply regretted by his many friends in Bristol.
26/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Frank Strange
News has been received that Private Frank Strange, Gloucester Regiment, (M.G.S.) has been killed in action in France. He was the son of Mr and Mrs Strange, Small Lane, Fishponds, and before his enlistment was in the employ of Messrs Mardon, Son, and Hall, Temple Gate.
He was well known in football circles, having played for Fishponds Rangers when that team was in the Suburban League. He was a member of the Fishponds Baptist Young Men's Bible Class.
09/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Second Lieutenant A. C. Saxton
Second Lieutenant A. C. Saxton, King's Own Scottish Borderers (killed in action on July 30th), was the youngest son of the late G. S. Saxton C.C.S. He was 27 years of age and was educated at Clifton College. He went out to Ceylon in 1911 as a planter, and joined the Ceylon Planters' Rifle Corps. On the outbreak of war he went with the Ceylon Contingent to Egypt. On April 15th, 1915, he was gazetted to the 1st K.O.S.B., and saw service in Gallipoli where he was wounded. He returned to England on sick leave, and was sent to the depot. From there he went to France in March last. Lieut Saxton married in November, 1915, Beatrice Florence, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs C. N. Bromeld, of Spaxton, Somerset.
26/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private John Ball
Notification has been received of the death of Private John Ball, of the Gloucesters, who was killed in action in France on Sunday, July 23rd, aged 22. Always keen on a soldier's career, first as a Boy Scout, he joined the Gloucesters Territorial Battalion some three years ago. He volunteered for active service, and proceeded to France 18 months ago. He was orderly up to the time of the death of the late Lieutenant H. P. Nott, on April 27th last, to whom he was greatly attached. He was employed at the Douglas Motor Works, and was educated, first at Greenbank and then at Eastville Schools. He was one of the best of sons, and his parents, who reside at 36, Greenbank Road, would be thankful for any particulars of his death from any of his comrades.
28/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Capt. J. Kenneth Gilmore
General sympathy will be extended to Mr and Mrs J. C. Gilmore, of Saltford, in the great bereavement they have suffered by the death in action of their elder son, Capt. J. Kenneth Gilmore of the Gloucestershire Regiment. The young officer, who was educated at Bath College, on the outbreak of war was with the Imperial Tobacco Company, Ltd. but at once joined the Irish Rifles. He showed such aptitude for his new profession that he was given his commission in the Gloucestershire regiment, and soon got his second star. He went with his Regiment on active service aboard in September, 1915, and recently was given his company, so well had he carried out his duties. The deceased officer was a fine type of young Englishman, standing over 6ft., and his open disposition and genial manner won him many friends, and he was most popular with the officers and men of his battalion. Captain Gilmore was only married in September last to Miss Gwladys Willows, daughter of the late Mr C. Willows, of Clifton, and deep sympathy will be felt with her and his parents in their great bereavement. The younger brother, Patrick, is serving as a midshipman on one of his Majesty's ships.
07/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Corporal Edwin Guy Howell
Corporal Edwin Guy Howell has fallen in action whilst serving with the Australian Imperial Force. He was the elder son of Mr and Mrs E. C. Howell, of 17, Whatley Road, Clifton, and was educated at the Bristol Grammar School. Before leaving for Australia he was in the South Midland Engineers.
14/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut Charles Clement Everard
News has been received that Lieut Charles Clement Everard, of the Sherwood Foresters, and elder son of the late Mr Edward Everard, of Broad Street, Bristol, was killed at the front on September 8th. The deceased was well known in Bristol, and his loss will be keenly felt by a large circle of friends. Before the war he was in charge of his father's printing business in Broad Street. He was in the Royal Gloucestershire Hussars for about 14 years, and went to Egypt with them as squadron sergeant-major. Later he was given a commission in the Sherwood Foresters, and took part in the operations at Suvla Bay. When the evacuation of Gallipoli was decided upon he was one of the last to leave. Lieut. Everard was 35 years of age, and leaves a widow and child, for whom much sympathy will be felt.
14/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private F. E. Victor Collacott
News has been received by Mr and Mrs Collacott, of 4, Tudor Road, Easton, of the death of their son, Victor Collacott, who was killed in action on August 14, aged 24 years. Deceased soldier, who was in the employ of Messrs Wathen, Gardner, and Co., joined his group on March 18, and was enlisted in the Royal Berkshire Regiment. Much sympathy has been expressed both to his parents and his wife, Eleanor A. Collacott, who resides at 5, Lilian Street, Redfield.
15/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Frederick Stenner
Mr and Mrs F. Stenner, of 7, Haversham Street, Stapleton Road, have just received the sad news of the death of their fourth son, Private Frederick Stenner, of the Worcestershire Regiment, who was killed in action on the 21st of August, aged 23. He was a bugler in the Bristol Rifles when the territorial scheme first started, and was for ten years in the employ of Messrs Brooks, dyers, Ashley Vale, where he was greatly respected. He had only been at the front a few weeks. He was an old St Gabriel's boy.
19/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private E. J. Sweet
Mrs E. J. Sweet has received the very sad news of the death of her son, Private E. J. Sweet, of the Somerset Light Infantry, who died of wounds in hospital on Sunday, Sept 10th, after serving his country in the trenches twelve months. He was a very keen sportsman and a good footballer, having been connected with several clubs in Bristol. Private Sweet was also a constant member of Hebron Brotherhood, Barton Hill, who will miss his membership very much. He will be mourned by everyone with whom he was connected. He was formerly employed at Messrs Mardon, Son, and Hall's No. 2 Factory, Temple Gate. He was in his 21st year.
21/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private F. Joseph Day
News has been received that Private "Joe" Day, of the Gloucesters, was killed in action on the 3rd inst. He was for many years in the employ of Messrs Chas, Wills and Sons, Rupert Street, and at the time of joining up was with Messrs Walsh and Co., Limited, Nelson Street. Private Day was a member of the Broad Plain Club.
21/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sapper Reginald Tavener
News has just been received by Mr T. Tavener of Oaklands Road, Mangotsfield, that his son, Sapper Reginald Tavener, has been killed at the front on August 29th. He was aged 19. He was enlisted on the outbreak of war, and has been with his company at the front for about 15 months. Previous to enlisting he was employed at Messrs Brecknell, Munro, and Rogers, engineers, Thrisseli Street.
21/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private R. H. Middle
News has just been received of the death of Private R. H. Middle, of the Gloucestershire Regiment. He was the second son of the late Drum-Major Middle and Mrs Marshall, of 2, Henry Street, Totterdown. It was stated in a letter that he was admitted into the 2nd Stationary Hospital on the 7th inst., suffering from severe wounds in the right thigh and gas gangrene, and died the following day. Deceased who was 16 years of age, had been in France 10 months. He was formerly in the employ of G.W.R. Locomotive Department, and was a St Luke's Old Boy.
22/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private William J. Iles
Private William J. Iles, who was killed in action on September 3rd, was the eldest son of Mr John Iles, of Downend Park, Horfield, Bristol. He was 31 years of age. He joined the Gloucestershire regiment early in the war, and went to the front with the regiment. After leaving school, he was for some time with the Bristol Tramways Company, and subsequently for many years with Mr Conrad Fry at Clifton, whom he temporarily left to join the colours, intending to return to Mr Fry at the end of the war.
23/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private A. E. Babb
Much sympathy will be felt for Capt. and Mrs Babb in the loss of their youngest son, Private A. E. (Bert) Babb, of the Gloucesters, who was killed in action on September 3. The deceased was 21 years old. He joined the Gloucester Regiment in 1914, and went with his battalion to the seat of war in 1915. Previous to joining he was with Messrs Henry Matthews and Co., of Lewin's Mead, where he was held in the highest esteem.
22/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lance-Corporal Frank Bryant
Lance-Corporal Frank Bryant whose home address is 6, Woodbine Road, Whitehall, after 16 months in the trenches, was killed in action on the 18th August. He was serving in the Somerset Light Infantry, with whom he enlisted on the outbreak of war. He was educated at Whitehall School, and was employed at the Bristol Wagon Works, where his father is a foreman over the motor carriage and paintshop department. He was a member of the Redfield Brotherhood.
25/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut Ernest B. Walters
Every day the news from the war fronts emphasizes the bravery and resource of the British, alas! too, that it should record its toll of loss. News has been received of the death in action of Lieutenant Ernest Beauchamp Walters, B.A., who was the eldest son of the Rev Ernest and Mrs Walters, of St Nathanael's Vicarage, Redland, Bristol, and was 21 years of age. He was educated at Redland Hill House School, and graduated B.A. at Bristol University. His intention was to take holy orders.
At the outbreak of war he joined the University O.T.C., and after two months training enlisted in "Bristol's Own", and was in a few weeks promoted Corporal. In December he was given his commission in the Gloucestershire Regiment. He went to the front in July, 1915, and was gazetted lieutenant.
25/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private W. King
Mr and Mrs King of Sandringham Hotel, Brislington, have received official intelligence of the death in action of their son, Private W. King, Gloucester Regiment, who was only 23 years of age. He was educated at Redcliff School, and was afterwards on the staff of Messrs Bolt Bros, Limited, Victoria Street.
27/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private F. J. Curtis
Official information has been received of the death in action on Sunday, September 3rd, of Private F. J. Curtis, Gloucester Regiment in his 19th year, younger son of Mr and Mrs J. T. Curtis, Down House Gardens, Stoke Bishop. Deceased enlisted in July, 1915, proceeding to France on Christmas Eve. Prior to joining the Army he was on the staff of the Co-operative Wholesale Society, Broad Quay. He was deeply interested in Sunday School work in connection with the Westbury Park Wesleyan Church, of which he was a member.
27/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Corporal Leslie Elson
Corporal Leslie Elson, of the Gloucester Regiment, who was killed in action on the 3rd of September, was the son of Mr and Mrs W. S. Elson. He was 21 this September. He was educated at the Wells Road School and the Merchant Venturers' College. He entered the firm of Messrs Jones and Wainwright, timber merchants, and on leaving them he joined Messrs McArthur, Nash and Co., Marsh Street. He joined a local battalion as soon as war broke out.
29/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Robert Rossiter
On Tuesday the funeral took place of the late Mr Thomas Robert Rossiter at Arno's Vale. Mr Rossiter had resided at 348, Wells Road, Knowle, and was one of the oldest and longest residents, having gone to the district in 1880. He was a member of the of firm Messrs Chappell, Allen, and Company, Ltd., Patriotic Corset Works, Redfield, with which he was associated for 43 years, retiring about seven years ago. He was of a genial disposition, and took a keen interest in the welfare of the district, and was actively engaged in many of its societies and associations. He belonged to the cricket club and bowling club, and was treasurer of the flower show for many years. He was a member of the Turners' Company and Freeman of the City of London, and was also a member of the Moira Lodge of Freemasons. He had several hobbies, chief among them being gardening, photography, and music. He was an early member of the Society of Bristol Gleemen.
06/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Gunner Tom Jones
Mrs Lillian Jones, 4, Addison Avenue, New Brislington, has received official news of the death of her husband, Gunner Tom Jones, R.F.A., who died of wounds in France on September 12th. Previous to joining the Army he was in the employ of the Bristol Corporation, No. 5 District, Willway Street, Bedminster, where he was held in much esteem by his work mates.
06/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ernest Henry Mayo Gunn
We regret to announce the death of Mr Ernest Henry May Gunn, of Charlton, Portbury, Somerset, who had been a director of the Imperial Tobacco Company of Great Britain and Ireland, Limited, for several years. Henry May Gunn, of Warminster, was a grandson of the late Mr H. O. Wills, senior (the father of Mr H. O. Wills of Kelston). For a large number of years Mr Mayo Gunn was associated with the old firm of W. D. and H. O. Wills, Limited, and was manager of the London branch of that company, but later, after he became director of the Imperial Company, he left London to reside at Portbury. He was educated at Mill Hill School. He was 51 years old, and leaves a widow, three sons, and a daughter. His eldest son was only recently married, and his second son is serving in the Army.
13/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private William Hicks
Mr and Mrs T. Hicks of Crew's Hole, St. George, have received official notification that their son, Private William Hicks, of the Grenadier Guards, was killed in action on the 14-17th of September. He was 27 years of age and had been in the Army for upwards of nine years; and being on the reserve, he was called to the colours when war broke out. He went to the seat of war in July, 1915. Previous to the war, he was in the employ of Messrs William Butler and Co., Crew's Hole.
14/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut Ralph S. Davis
Second Lieutenant Ralph S. Davis, Dorset Regiment, was killed in action recently. He was in his 20th year, and was the eldest son of Mr and Mrs F. Davis, florists, Bristol. The promising young officer obtained his commission after serving with Bristol's Own for nine months, being gazetted to the Dorsets, attached to the East Surreys. He went to France with the Somersets, and had been only a few days at the front when he fell gallantly leading his men in a charge.
14/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut A. J. Spiller
Second Lieutenant A. J. Spiller, who fell in action on the 16th September, was the fifth son of the late James and Caroline Spiller, of Queen's Parade, Ashley Hill. In December, 1914, he married Edith, daughter of the late Rev J. G. Easley, of Sherstone. He enlisted in the Royal Engineers in September, 1914, and went to the front in March 1915. In March of this year he was given a commission in the Somerset L.I. At the time of his enlistment, Lieutenant Spiller was president of the Bristol Coopers' Society. He took the greatest interest in trade union work, both in connection with the society and the Bristol Trades Council. He was also general secretary of the United Kingdom Coopers' Association for three years. Lieutenant Spiller was well known some years ago in athletic circles, taking part successfully in many cycle races. In religious life, also, he took considerable part, being a member of the Baptist Itinerant Society, and a president of the Broadmead Men's Bible Class.
17/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private P. E. Fisher
Mrs Fisher of 4, Wine Street, has received official notification of the death of her husband, Private P. E. Fisher, of the Gloucesters, who was in the employ of Messrs Pleasance and Harper, Wine Street. He joined Bristol's Own early on its formation, and was fatally wounded on the 3rd September.
20/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Grantley Skuse
Mr and Mrs H. Skuse of Claverham, near Bristol, have received official intimation that their youngest son, Private Grantley Skuse, of the Gloucesters, died of wounds in France on 27th September. He was 21 years of age, and was much respected by all who knew him. Before joining the colours he was with Messrs Jones and Co., Wine Street, Bristol.
24/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Arthur Pocock
News has been received by his relatives of the death of Private Arthur Pocock, of the Gloucesters who was killed in the heavy fighting on July 19th. Private Pocock was a member in the youths' department of the Y.M.C.A., St. James's Square, and took a great interest in the athletic side of its work. A very keen sportsman and most popular with all who knew him. He joined up in May, 1915, and at that time was in the employ of Messrs Christopher Thomas, Broad Plain.
25/10/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Captain Ralph Pratt
Information has been received of the death at the front of Captain Ralph Pratt, elder son of Mr E. Woodhall Pratt, J.P., boot manufacturer, Kingswood. Soon after the outbreak of war Mr Ralph Pratt obtained a lieutenant's commission and went with the Gloucesters to France. His ability was rewarded by his being made captain three months ago. The late captain was a thoroughly good sportsman. For 15 years he was a member of the Aerial Rowing Club. In the Clifton Football Club he was such a capable right-half that he was picked on several occasions to play in county matches. For some time he was chairman of the Bristol and Kingswood section of the Boot Manufacturers' Federation, and on the Executive he did much valued work.
01/11/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Capt A. B. Colthurst
It will be learnt with much regret that Capt. A. B. Colthurst, second son of the late Ald E. B. Colthurst, has fallen in action. The gallant officer was very well known locally. He had been for many years associated with the firm of Colthurst and Harding, oil and colour merchants, and his residence was at Netherton's Wood, Nailsea. He was a Past Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers, and had served as churchwarden at St. Mary Redcliff Church. A member of the National Reserve, he obtained a commission with the Gloucesters and went to the Front in the early part of the year. A son of the late Captain Colthurst (who was in his 46th year) is serving in the Engineers, whilst another son is at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.
01/11/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private F. C. Grainger
News has just been received of the death from wounds of Private F. C. Grainger on August 20, 1916, late of 6, Chancery Street, Barton Hill. Private Grainger enlisted in November, 1915, going to the front in April, 1916. Before enlisting he was in the employ of Messrs J. S. Fry and Sons, Bristol. He was 19 years of age.
09/08/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
2nd Lieut. Crosby R. S. Turner
Our obituary column today contains the announcement of the death of 2nd Lieut. Crosby R. S. Turner, of the Dorset Regiment, attached to the King's Royal Rifles. The deceased officer was shot through the head on the 27th July whilst gallantly defending a post in France, in the course of the great British offensive. The officer commanding has paid a high tribute to Lieut. Turner's bravery in the field, and further testimony has been borne to the deceased Lieutenant's personal popularity and general military service. Lieut Turner was no more than 19 years of age, was the only son of Mr and Mrs E. D. Turner, 50 Cavendish Road, Clapham Common, London (formerly of Yate, Gloucestershire), and a nephew of Mr G. Falconer King of Bristol.
19/09/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private Harold Osborne
Private Harold Osborne, who was killed in action on September 3rd, was the third son of Mr and Mrs J. Osborne, of 111, Redland Road, and was 33 years old. He was educated at Redcliff School and the Merchant Venturers' College, and entered the service of the National Telephone Company's engineering department. Leaving them he joined his father's business of chair manufacturers &c., and represented the firm for some years in the South and South Eastern districts. He was one of the first to join the Gloucestershire Regiment, after the war. He will be sadly missed by a large circle of both private and business friends.
10/11/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Q. M. - Sergt. Grantley James Summerhill
The mother of the late Quarter-Master Sergeant Grantley James Summerhill, R.F.A. (of Dial House, Downend), has received from an officer of the Regiment a letter stating that her son was asleep at the wagon lines, with two other men, when a shell burst close by, and a piece hit Sergeant Summerhill in the head, causing a severe wound from which, unfortunately, he subsequently died. Much sympathy has been expressed with Mr and Mrs Summerhill in the loss of their gallant son. The deceased soldier, as already stated, was for many years in the employ of Messrs Brooke and Prudencio, Ltd., the well known Bristol mineral water manufacturers, having entered their service as a boy, and remained until he enlisted, soon after the present war broke out. He was a bright and conscientious young man. The loss of Grantley Summerhill makes the third death amongst the large number of employees of Messrs Brooke and Prudencio Ltd., who have joined the fighting services.
17/11/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Private F. Young
Private F. Young of the Gloucestershire Regiment, son of Mr and Mrs Young, 46 Cooperation Road, Greenbank, Easton, has been reported missing since September 3rd, 1916. The family would be very grateful for any information which his comrades might be able to give them. Private Young celebrated his twentieth birthday at the front, where he has served for over nine months. Before leaving Bristol to serve with the colours he was employed at Messrs Mardon's printing establishment. He was a popular and faithful member of Mr W. E. Moreton's Young Men's Bible Class at Castle Green Congregational Church Greenbank, from which class over three score of young men have responded to the "call".
18/11/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lance-Corporal William Garfield Sawday
Mr George E. Sawley of 3, Belfry Avenue, St George, has received intimation of the death of his son, Lance-Corporal Willie Garfield Sawley, previously reported missing. Lance-Corporal Sawley left his employ at the Wagon Works, and early in the war joined up at a big recruiting meeting held in the Colston Hall, at which the late Sir Herbert Ashman presided. He joined the Gloucesters, went to the Dardanelles, was engaged in the Suvla Bay landing, and was promoted to Lance-Corporal. He took an active interest in sport, played in one of the East End football teams, and was much esteemed in the district where he resided. He leaves a widow and three children.
18/12/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Trooper Alfred Havens
Mrs Havens, of 76, Exeter Road, Ashton Gate, has received official intimation that her son, Trooper Alfred Havens, Royal Gloucestershire Hussars Yeomanry, was killed in action by a German shell on November 5th. Prior to the outbreak of war, the deceased soldier, who was only 21, was in the employ of Messrs W. D. and H. O. Wills, Ashton Gate.
28/12/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Arthur J. Lawson
Mr Arthur J. Lawson, who died on Christmas Day at his residence, 27, Henleaze Gardens, at the age of 65 years, was chairman of Lawson's Non-conducting Composition, Ltd., of St Philip's, and was for many years a member of the firm of Messrs Lawson, Philips and Billings, soap manufacturers, whose business was taken over by Christopher Thomas Bros. As a young man Mr Lawson played cricket for local clubs, and in later years he attended the county cricket matches fairly regularly. He was long an active member, too, of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and of the Commercial Rooms, and in 1888 he filled the presidential chair of the former organisation. About that period he was one of the best known and most popular of business men in the city.
08/02/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Henry Miles
We regret to announce the death of Sir Henry Miles, Bart. Sir Henry had been critically ill for some days at Leigh Court, his residence, following an operation for throat trouble, and he past away at ten o'clock last evening.
Sir Henry Robert William Miles, Bart, was born at Kingsweston House in January, 1843, and was educated at Eton. He was the youngest son of the late Sir William Miles, Bart, and in his earlier days he was a lieutenant in the 5th Fusiliers. For many years he acted as land agent to the late Sir Philip Miles, and afterwards to Sir Cecil Miles. In 1898 he succeeded his nephew in the title. Sir Henry Miles took an active part in public work in Somerset, his business-like qualities being greatly appreciated. He was a member of the Somerset County Council, chairman of the Long Ashton Board of Guardians and District Council, and a Justice of the Peace by virtue of the latter office, but he did not sit on the bench. Amongst other bodies with which Sir Henry was associated were the Executive of the North Somerset Conservative Association and the Western Division of the National Union of Conservative Associations. In 1904 Sir Henry was president of the Dolphin Colston Society, when the collection was £1,513, a sum well above the average, and he showed an interest in various philanthropic agencies. Sir Henry possessed a very genial manner, and his loss will be mourned by a very large number of friends in the county. He was taken ill early in November, and underwent an operation to the throat. The title descends to Sir Henry's son, Mr Charles William Miles, who was born in July 1883.
16/04/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Hugh Greenfield Doggett
A large congregation assembled at St. Mary's Leigh Woods, yesterday afternoon, on the occasion of the funeral of Mr Hugh Greenfield Doggett, whose death at Falmouth on Sunday came as a great shock to his many friends and fellow-citizens, by whom he was held in high esteem. Although Mr Doggert did not take a prominent part in civic matters, he was greatly interested in the welfare of his native city and its institutions, and in the capacity of senior member of the well known form of solicitors, Messrs Stanley, Wasbrough, and Doggert, he held several important appointments. He was solicitor to Clifton College and the West Gloucestershire Water Company, and after being solicitor to the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company, he became a director a few years ago. He also served on the Boards of the Imperial Tramways Company, the Western Wagon Company, and of the Suspension Bridge Company, and was chairman of the Clifton Down Hotel Company. For several years he was coroner for Bristol. He took a great interest in the Bristol Eye Dispensary, Orchard Street, of which he was made president in 1913. Though a Justice of the Peace for the city of Bristol, he did not very often occupy a seat on the bench. Having regard to his many activities, it was not surprising to find so representative a gathering of citizens at the church in the Leigh Woods.
19/02/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Matthews
The death took place suddenly yesterday of Mr George Matthews, who was for many years manager of the carriage department of the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company Limited. He was unexpectedly taken ill at Clare Street House, and his death will come as a surprise to his friends who have seen him about recently. Though connected with the saddlery business of Messrs Jas. Matthews and Son, of 84, West Street, St Philips, which has been established for upwards of a century, and at which address he lived, the deceased was identified with the firm of Messrs J. R. Brookman and Co., jobmasters of Old Market Street, and was one of the cleverest four horse whips of that time. When the firm in question was absorbed by the Tramways and Carriage Company, Mr Matthews came into the latter's employ, during the many years he was manager of the carriage department, he was held in great respect by the Company, and though strict in business, was well liked by the employees. He retired a few years ago. Mr Matthews was a good judge of a horse, and when war broke out his services were requisitioned in the valuation of horses required by the Government. He was in the Gloucestershire Hussars at one time, and was a member of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows. He was in his 73rd year, and leaves a widow and two married daughters.
25/02/1915
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Robert Fowlet Sturge
The will of the late Mr Robert Fowlet Sturge of 101, Pembroke Road, Clifton, land agent, who died in January last, has now been proved. The gross estate amounted to £48,909, with net personalty £46,527.
27/02/1915
Western Daily Press
Will
Lady Emily Frances Smyth
Application is being made for probate of the will of Dame Emily Frances Smyth, of Ashton Court, who died on the 23rd November, 1914. The will is dated the 28th June, 1913, and there is a codicil dated 5th October, 1914. The estate is valued at £974,251 (gross), and it is estimated that estate duty will have to be paid at the rate of 19 per cent in addition to legacy duty and succession duty. The executors are Mr William Henry Greville Edwards, Mr Charles Henry Cave, and Mr St. John Miles, all of the Old Bank, Bristol.
03/03/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lieut Henry Arnold Hosegood
Widespread and sincere sympathy is felt for Mr and Mrs Henry Hosegood whose eldest son, Lieut Henry Arnold Hosegood, has been killed in action near Ypres. The deceased officer was well known and highly respected. Born on November 6th, 1891, he was educated at Redland Hill House and Leys School, Cambridge, and on leaving school went into business with his father in the grain trade, becoming a partner on attaining his 21st birthday in 1912. He was a member of the Bristol Ariel Rowing Club, of which he was a captain in 1913, and he was also a member of the Bristol Commercial Rooms and the Bristol Liberal Club. In religion he was associated with the Wesleyan body, and was superintendent of the Westbury Park Wesleyan Junior Sunday School. He was gazetted to a Lieutenancy in the 5th Reserve Battalion of the Royal Fusiliers on August 15th, 1914, left England on January 21st, 1915, and was killed near Ypres on February 24th.
13/03/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. Crofton Hemmons
There passed to rest on Thursday last, in the picturesque village of Holford, which nestles in the Quantock Hills, Mr W. Crofton Hemmons, who during the whole of his business life in this city, was at the head of the Central Printing Works, in St Stephen Street. Some ten years since, Mr Hemmons was compelled to retire, owing to serious illness, from which he has continued to suffer with slowly decreasing strength. He was the son of Mr John Hemmons (associated for many years with Messrs Llewellin and James, of Castle Green). Apprenticed to Mr Isaac Hemmons, in St Stephen's Avenue (whose connection with Broadmead Chapel will be remembered by many readers), Mr W. C. Hemmons succeeded to the business before he was 21 years of age, and by his ability, culture, and energy, raised it from small beginnings until it became one of the largest and best known publishing houses in the West of England. Perceiving the opportunity for artistic development in his trade, he spared no pains to equip himself for work of the highest class.
Mr W. C. Hemmons had considerable taste in musical matters, and after acquiring the copyright of the Bristol Tune Book, he issued a companion volume, "The Bristol Chant, Anthem, and Service Book", which met with a large sale, and is still in demand. He took up photography as a hobby, and quickly excelled in that art, especially in architectural subjects. His friends consider themselves fortunate to possess examples of his work, as they were produced with rare skill. His reading was catholic in range, and refined in character, and he was recognised as a "Wordsworthian" at the time when this poet was so popular in literary circles.
Mr Hemmons was a life-long member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, and gave to the Old King Street place of worship continued service until his retirement. He was choirmaster for many years, superintendent of the Sunday School, and leader of a large society class. Mr W. C. Hemmons leaves a son in the Wesleyan ministry, and two daughters.
13/03/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev Bedford Harnell
Thousands of old Cliftonians, scattered all over the world, will learn with sorrow of the death, at Clifton, yesterday, of the Rev. Bedford Hartnell, who was for the long period of thirty-four years assistant master at the College. Mr Hartnell, who graduated at St John's College, Cambridge, in 1859 (M.A., 1862), was appointed as headmaster of the Junior School at Clifton in 1863, the year after the College had been opened under the headmastership of the present Bishop of Hereford. In 1864 he was ordained deacon and priest the following year, and between 1864 and 1866 he was curate at St Paul's, Clifton. His chief ministerial work, however, was at Clifton College, where he was one of the chaplains until, in 1897, he retired to become rector of Littleton-on-Severn, near Thornbury. He resigned this position a few years ago to the great regret of his parishioners. But his life work was at Clifton College. As headmaster of the Junior School and master of the Upper Third Form, he devoted his ability and personal charm and influence to the development of the most promising of the younger boys of the College, and he has been held in affectionate remembrance by his former pupils.
22/04/1915
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Pitchford
Mr William Pitchford, of 8, Cotham Gardens, Cotham, Bristol (a past president of the Society of Devonians in Bristol) died on December 22nd last, leaving estate of the gross value of £4,671 2s 6d.
27/05/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Roger Moore
We regret to announce the death of Mr Roger Moore, who some years ago was one of the best known citizens in Bristol. He had been living for the last two years at 174, Hotwell Road, where he expired yesterday, aged 76 years. Formerly the deceased was in the soap trade in Redcliff Street, and he early evinced the greatest interest in shipping and commerce. The pilots of the port found in him a staunch friend: he investigated any grievances they had, and did his best to get them remedied. His most important work was in connection with the efforts of Mr Plimsoll, M.P. in respect to the load line. For the purpose of aiding inquiries as to the excessive loading of vessels he travelled to foreign ports, and was unremitting in his exertions to assist Mr Plimsoll. Mr Roger Moore was a staunch Liberal, and during the time of open voting he formed one of an active band of supporters to advocate zealously the claims of the Liberal candidate. He could tell many tales of the polling booths, and some of these were of a highly diverting character. In 1881 he was elected a member for Bedminster Ward (East) in the Municipal Council, and in 1884 he was re-elected. On the 16th June 1913, he married Stella Georgina Royall. In the course of his busy career Mr Moore accumulated a large collection of documents, some of which were most valuable. They referred principally to matters connected with trade and ships. He became a contributor to the 'Western Daily Press', in which from time to time appeared correspondence betokening close acquaintance with seafaring subjects. In respect to the Lusitania catastrophe, he had a dream which was thus narrated in the 'Bristol Evening News', 8th May.
29/05/1915
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William William Squire
Mr William William Squire, of 15, Eaton Crescent, Clifton, (Engineer to the Bristol Docks, and formerly Engineer to the Bombay Port Trust) who died on the 7th January last, left estate of the gross value of £4,545 9s 4d.
16/06/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Flight-Lieutenant Collyns Price Pizey
The death is announced of Flight-Lieutenant Collyns Price Pizey, R.N.A.S. (Commander R.G.N.) at Athens, Greece, on June 11th, of dysentery. Lieutenant C. P. Pizey was appointed by the Admiralty as Flying Officer to the British Naval Mission to Greece, under Admiral Mark Kerr, R.N., M.V.O., in September 1913, to carry out experimental and instructional work and to organise the Greek Naval Air Service.
Lieutenant C. P. Pizey had for years been a flyer of Bristol biplanes and monoplanes, and was formerly with the British and Colonial Aeroplane Company in charge of their flying schools at Salisbury Plain and Brooklands respectively. It will be remembered that while with the Bristol Company he took part in the 'Daily Mail' race in 1911. He was one of the most popular and experienced British airmen, and has been spoken of as one of the best aeroplane engineers in England. Lieutenant C. P. Pizey was the only son of the late G. F. Price Pizey. M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., of Clevedon, Somerset.
08/02/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Henderson
The death will be learned with great regret of Mr William Henderson, who was widely known in Bristol. He had not been in good health for the last two years, and died at his residence in Albert Road, Clifton, on Friday afternoon. Following his father in the profession of the law, Mr Henderson was admitted a solicitor in 1871, and joined the firm of Fussell and Co., in 1876, Mr James Flower Fussell being his father-in-law, and lately Mr Henderson was the sole proprietor of the firm. In past years Mr Henderson frequently appeared before the Local Marine Board in inquiries on behalf of the Board of Trade, but these inquiries have now for some time been transferred to Cardiff. Mr Henderson was also Registrar of the Bristol General Cemetery Company. Mr Henderson was associated with many societies and philanthropic works. As the treasurer of the Orthopaedic Hospital and Home for Crippled Children, Grove Road, Redland, he rendered invaluable aid to the institution, devoting much time and effort to its welfare. Mr Henderson was a member of the committee of the Dolphin Society, and being so well known in the city those would-be annuitants of this and other societies who were fortunate in obtaining his support of their claims were regarded as certain of success. Mr Henderson was a Past President of the Ancient Society of St Stephen's Ringers, a member of the Royal Sussex Lodge of Freemasons, a past captain of the Clifton Rugby Football Club, and a member of the Bristol Savages. In his youth Mr Henderson was a keen naturalist, and his collection of birds of the district may be seen in the Bristol Museum. Living in the country in his early years, he was interested in country pursuits, and was an excellent shot. He was also a book lover and a judge of Chippendale furniture. Mr Henderson's wife pre-deceased him many years ago, and he leaves two daughters, one of whom has devoted herself to Red Cross work. He was 69 years of age.
31/08/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Captain Arthur Holmes Gore
Captain Arthur Gore Holmes O.C. B Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Hants, third son of Mr T. Holmes Gore, Clerk to the Bristol Justices, was born in 1871, educated at King's College Taunton, and articled to his father and to Messrs H. R. Wansbrough and Co., solicitors, Bristol. Practising as a solicitor for one or two years, at Bristol where he is still well known and loved, he felt that his best talents could be more profitably exercised on the stage. In 1894 he trained in Miss Sarah Thorne's celebrated dramatic school at Margate with other eminent London actors. He at once made his mark as a versatile character actor of deep feeling and high ideals. His name will be associated with such plays as "The Professor's Love Story", "The Flag Lieutenant", "The Message From Mars", and "Kismet". As the Admiral in "The Flag Lieutenant" he received the honour of being twice presented to our late King, Edward VII, at the Playhouse and subsequently at Sandringham by Cecil Maude. He acted in America with Sir Herbert Tree, and through several tours there became well known in Canada and the United States.
At the outbreak of war Mr Gore joined the United Arts Corps, in which he steadily rose until he was appointed acting adjutant, drilling at Burlington House. A commission as captain in the Princess Beatrice's Regiment (Isle of Wight Hampshire Rifles) was given him, and his previous volunteer practice in the Gloucester Artillery helped him to attain distinguished efficiency and to instruct his company of 240 Islanders from the Wight, who were devoted to him. He was last heard of on the 12th August at Gallipoli. He is reported to-day in the casualty lists as "missing and believed killed".
While touring with "The Professor's Love Story" Mr Gore married that charming actress Miss Elsie Chester, now a professor on the staff of the Academy of Dramatic Art, Gower Street, London. She lives with their one daughter at 16, Faraday Mansions, Kensington, which has been their residence for many years. Captain Gore was a member of the Green Room Club, was on the Council of the Actors' Association, and on the committee of the Actors' Benevolent Fund.
11/11/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lady White
With great regret we announce the death of Lady White, the wife of Sir George White, Bart. For some time past the state of her health had caused considerable anxiety, and she passed away late on Tuesday night.
The deceased lady was the daughter of a Bristol citizen, the late Mr William Thomas, and she was married to Sir George in 1876. The increasing prominent part taken by her husband in public life necessarily had its influence on the responsibilities of his wife, and she evinced the same warm interest in efforts for the relief of suffering, and the promotion of the welfare of the sick poor. She ably cooperated with her husband in 1909 in the organisation of the Voluntary Aid Detachment of the Red Cross, and was Vice-President of the local branch of the Society. It was a matter of deep regret to her that her illness gradually curtailed her activities on behalf of the cause she had so much at heart.
The association of Sir George with the Bristol Royal Infirmary afforded her new scope for displaying her kindly sympathies. She used to visit the sick, always remembered them at the Christmas season, and her connection with the Ladies' Needlework Guild, with that of the Duchess of Beaufort, has been recognised by the thanks of the Governors of the institution. Some years ago Sir George was confronted with the necessity of rising a considerable sum of money to free the Infirmary from debt and to carry out extensive improvements. In that scheme he had the assistance of his wife, who was prominent among the ladies who associated themselves with a carefully organised Carnival held at the Clifton Zoological Gardens. The stall of which she had charge was subsequently presented to the Winsley Sanatorium, where it formed a welcomed and artistic addition to the chalets placed in the grounds for the use of the patients. Lady White also evinced a keen interest in an exhibition held about ten years ago in connection with the Royal Irish Industries' Association, and her help was extended to many other worthy objects.
When King George and Queen Mary came to Bristol in the summer of 1912 to open the new Edward VII Memorial Wing of the Infirmary, Lady White was presented to them, and one feature of the afternoon's programme was her presentation to her Majesty of a beautiful fan. At the complimentary dinner given to Sir George on the same evening, reference was made to the debt the institution, its patients, and its nurses owed to Lady White.
Lady White's death took place at Old Sneed Park, the beautifully situated home recently acquired by Sir George, and the close of a useful life will be widely regretted.
15/03/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Clifton Kitchin
Mr Clifton Kitchin of Cabot House, Clifton, Down Road, Clifton (president of the Bristol and Clifton Chess Club and of the Gloucestershire Chess Association) whose death took place on the 26th January last, left estate valued at £12,834 1s 10d
17/03/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter Butler
The death occurred at Cobham, Surrey, on Saturday, of Mr Walter Butler, of the firm of Messrs Lambert and Butler, tobacco manufacturers. Deceased, who was 55 years of age, had recently undergone an operation. He was one of the original directors of the Imperial Tobacco Company, formed in 1901, into which his firm was merged. He was also a member of the Executive Committee, and he attended the annual meeting of the company, held at the offices, East Street, Bedminster, on Feb 15th. The flag at the building was yesterday at half-mast.
20/03/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Tyley
The death is announced of Mr Henry Tyley, sculpture, of 9, St Augustine's Bank, who was well-known in Bristol. Mr Tyley has executed a large amount of monumental sculptor, and several examples of his skill are to be seen at Arno's Vale. The deceased gentleman was the third son of the late Mr Thomas Tyley, with whom Mr Harvard Thomas, the sculptor of the famous figure of Lycidas and, in Bristol, of the Samuel Morley and Edmund Burke statues, learned marble carving. Mr Tyley was in his 72 year, and had for many years the sculptor business in St Augustine's which his father and grandfather had carried on before him.
02/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Alderman Charles Newth
The will of the late Alderman Charles Newth, J.P., of Woodside, Redland Grove, has been proved, the gross estate being sworn at £26,629.
10/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry William Carter
Mr Henry William Carter, of 14, Alexandra Road, Clifton, Bristol, whose death took place on the 3rd February last, left estate valued at £12,149 17s 8d.
11/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Robert Lowe Grant Vassall
The funeral of Mr Robert Lowe Grant Vassall, who died on Sunday, at the age of 83, at his residence, Oldbury Court, took place yesterday at St Mary's Church, Fishponds, and was attended by a very large number of friends of the deceased gentleman. Mr Vassall was a well-known solicitor in Bristol, and had been a member of the Council of the Incorporated Law Society from 1873 to 1882, and president during 1876-7. He was also a member of the Incorporated Law Society of the United Kingdom from 1894-1902. In the year 1879-80 he was Sheriff of Bristol, and in 1883 he filled the position of President of the Dolphin Society. In 1892 Mr Vassall was elected deputy-chairman of the Taff Vale Railway Company, and chairman in 1899, on the resignation of Mr James Inskip. For nearly a quarter of a century, therefore, the work of that company was largely controlled by two prominent Bristol solicitors. Under the direction of Mr Vassall the prosperity of the company was abundantly maintained, and he played a conspicuous part in the action brought in 1900 by the Taff Vale Railway Company against the Amalgamated Railway Servants' Society - an action which led to the Trade Disputes Act being passed.
14/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edward Tuckett Daniell
We regret to announce the death, which took place on Saturday morning at his residence, 4, Downs Park West, of Mr Edward Tuckett Daniell, a member of the firm of Messrs J. L. and E. T. Daniell, solicitors, of Orchard Street, St Augustine's. The deceased gentleman had practised since 1879. Mr Daniell was for some years a member and chairman of the Stapleton Local Board before the incorporation of Stapleton with Bristol, but he took no further part in public affairs. He was a man of cultured taste and keenly interested both in literature and art. He had been in poor health for some years, but had not been long confined to his house. He leaves a widow and two daughters.
30/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Arthur Robinson
Mr Arthur Robinson, of Lawrence Weston House, Lawrence Weston, Henbury (son of the late Mr Elisha Smith Robinson) whose death occurred on the 24th February last, left estate of the gross value of £165,491 9s 2d.
06/05/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Robert Lowe Grant Vassall
Mr Robert Lowe Grant Vassall, of Oldbury Court, Fishponds, Bristol, Chairman of the Taff Railway Company, and a senior member of the firm of Osborne, Ward, Vassall, and Co., solicitors, Bristol, who died on the 6th day of April last, left real and personal estate valued at £91,341 10s 11d net.
08/05/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Edward Tuckett Daniell
Mr Edward Tuckett Daniell of 4, Downs Park West, Durdham Down, Bristol, whose death took place on the 12th April last, has left £8,319 15s 4d gross.
08/05/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Haycroft
We regret to announce the death of Mr Charles Haycroft, which took place on Tuesday night, at his residence at Saltford. Mr Haycroft was a hide merchant carrying on an extensive business at the Welsh Back. He was a son of Mr W. Haycroft, who was engaged in the hide business at Buenos Ayres, and nephew of the late Alderman W. Pethick. Well known and highly respected in business circles, his genial disposition caused him to be beloved of all who knew him, and the announcement of his death at the comparatively early age of 55 will cause very widespread regret. Mr Haycroft had a serious illness a few months ago, but he recovered, and was engaged at his business as recently as Saturday last. But on Sunday night he had a seizure, and the attack terminated fatally last evening. Deceased was an ex-president of the Bristol Commercial Rooms, a member of the Council of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Bristol Liberal Club and the Saltford Golf Club. He was also a member of the Jerusalem Lodge of Freemasons. He leaves a widow, two sons, and one daughter. The sons hold situations aboard, and one is on his way to England.
16/05/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Cleverdon
Sincere regret was caused yesterday by the announcement of the death of Mr Thomas Cleverdon. He was a man of kind disposition, and one possessed of considerable business knowledge, having been for a long period the head of an important vehicle manufacturing concern carried on in Bedminster. He resided in Coronation Road, and had for many years, as a Congregationalist, associated himself with the religious life of that great district. He was a Liberal, and although somewhat of a retiring disposition, was in 1891 prevailed upon to accept nomination for a seat in the City Council. He left that body after three years' service, but ten years later again consented to serve, and he continued his membership until his decease. He sat for Southville ward, and was a member of the Education Committee, New Streets Committee, the Museum and Art Gallery Committee, the Sanitary Committee, the Visiting Committee of the Bristol Asylum, and the Bristol Pensions Committee. He was also a member of the Distress Committee and one of the Overseers' Committee. Although he but rarely spoke in the Council, it will be realised that he had an unusual share of responsibility in many departments of civic administration. For some time his health had been far from robust, and he had lately suffered from a serious illness, from which he passed away yesterday. He was in his seventy-fifth year. He had a large circle of friends, and was generally esteemed.
01/12/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Thomas
After a short illness, the death occurred on Sunday last of Mr Charles Thomas, manager of the constructional works of Messrs John Lysaght Ltd. The late Mr Charles Thomas resided at Barry Hill, Bitton. He came to Bristol 40 years ago from Wolverhampton to be manager of the constructional works of Messrs Lysaght, a branch of the business that has been much expanded, and has become of increasing importance. His business ability was much valued by the firm, and his genial manner made him very popular. He was much interested in the progress of the Wesleyan Chapels in the Kingswood Circuit, and especially the chapel at Warmley, where he attended and to which he was a very generous donor.
04/02/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Williams Carter
It is with regret we have to announce the death of Mr Henry Williams Carter, J.P., who passed away at his residence, 14, Alexandra Road, Clifton, yesterday. The deceased gentleman was held in the highest esteem in the city, and his loss will be felt by a large circle of friends.
Born in 1839, he was engaged in education in his early years, but eventually changed to business pursuits. In 1872 he purchased the old-established mineral water and cordial works of George Withy and Co., Limited, of this city, retiring in 1904 from ill-health. Mr Carter's strenuous business career prevented his engaging in public work to the extent he desired, but he represented Clifton Ward in the City Council 1892-5, and Westbury Ward 1902-5.
He was appointed a city magistrate in 1902, was a member of the committee of the Bristol Benevolent Institution for 14 years, and latterly joined the Juvenile Advisory Committee attached to the Labour Exchange.
He was a keen critic on public and municipal affairs, delivering lectures and occasionally contributing to the local and London Press. A subject near to his heart was that of fire inquests, and he was an ardent supporter of the proposal to extend the London Act, which provides that inquests shall be held in cases of fire to the whole country. It may be recalled that at a conference of Fire Brigade Chief Officers the extension was warmly advocated, and about the same time Mr Carter wrote an article in a London magazine, presenting the case in favour of the extension very strongly and lucidly.
The deceased gentleman was in his 74th year.
01/09/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Jeremiah Osborne
We much regret to announce the death of Mr Jere Osborne, one of the oldest members of the legal profession of Bristol, who had been in failing health for some time, and passed away during the late hours of Saturday. He resided at Hawthornden, Clifton Down.
Mr Jeremiah Osborne was the eldest son of Mr John Osborne, of Lincoln's Inn, and County Court Judge of Salford, Manchester, who was a brother-in-law of the late Mr G. O. Edwards (of Redland Court, and the Old Bank, Bristol), and the late Mr Alfred George (George, Ricketts and Co.), of Severn House, Durdham Down. He was born at 22, Sussex Gardens, Hyde Park, London, June 9th, 1843, and was educated at Winchester College, as a Commoner. In 1867 he was admitted as a solicitor, and became a member of the firm of Messrs Osborne, Ward and Co., Broad Street, which was subsequently united with the firm of Messrs Vassall and Parr. On the death of his partner, Mr Charles Edward Ward, Mr Jere Osborne was appointed clerk to the Society of Merchant Venturers. He was a Conservative, and in 1889 was President of the Dolphin Society. It is interesting to note that his great grandfather was President of the Dolphin Society in 1761, and his grandfather in 1825. His family had been connected with the legal profession in Bristol since the beginning of the eighteenth century. Mr Jere Osborne married Caroline, a daughter of the late Mr T. G. Matthew's, of Bristol, and she pre-deceased him. At one time he lived at Ham Green, where he took an interest in rearing pedigree cattle, but he grew tired of country life and came to reside in Clifton.
Genial and unostentatious, Mr "Jere" Osborne, as he was familiarly known, was highly popular amongst a large circle of friends. A staunch Conservative, he was one of the principle supporters of the late Sir Michael Hicks-Beach during the many years that he represented Bristol West in the House of Commons, and when Sir Chas. Cave gave up the chairmanship of the Unionist Association for that division of the city, Mr Osborne succeeded him. When Mr Osborne was President of the Dolphin Society in 1889, the collection amounted to £1,890, a surprisingly large sum which stood as a record for some years. He held important offices in the Law Society and other organizations, and was closely associated with Bristol Cathedral, where he took an active part in many important events. One of the oldest and most respected of members of the Commercial Rooms and the Constitutional Club, he visited both places almost daily when in health, and was generally to be seen enjoying quiet conversation with a group of friends. Though lately, on account of the state of his health, Mr Osborne had partially retired from some of his public activities, he will be much missed in Clifton and in the city.
27/06/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Lowry Lewis
Our obituary notices on Wednesday contained an announcement of the death of Mr Lowry Lewis which took place at his residence, 53, Waverley Road, Redland, at the age of 63. Mr Lewis, who was a native of Falmouth, was an associate of the Royal West of England Academy, a member of the Bristol Savages, and one of the founders of the Bristol and District Cornish Association, in which he filled the offices of secretary, treasurer, and president. He was a member of the committee which promoted the Trelawney Memorial in Bristol Cathedral, which was unveiled recently by Sir A. Quiller Couch. Some years ago he was associated with the St Agnes Mission, and he was one of the first churchwardens of St Agnes Church. He was ever ready to identify himself with movements for alleviating distress, and for many years he did good work as treasurer of the Cinderella Society for providing meals and entertainments for children, and he also acted as treasurer of the Unemployed Bread Fund, which was started some years ago. He was a man of the most kindly disposition, and his death will be mourned by a large circle of friends. The deceased leaves a widow and four daughters.
14/09/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Haycroft
Mr Charles Haycroft of 37, Welsh Back, Bristol, senior partner in the firm of Haycroft and Egerton, hide merchants, Bristol, who died on the 6th May, left £4,896 2s 9d.
18/07/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Cottrell
It will be learned with great regret that the death has occurred somewhat suddenly, of Mr William Cottrell, who for many years had taken an active part in the life of the city. Mr Cottrell was a Bristolian, and was born in Barrs Street, in which street he founded 55 years ago, the large china and earthenware business with which he was associated until his death. He was very well known and highly respected, and for the past twenty-two years he had represented St. James's Ward upon the Bristol City Council. Amongst the committee upon which he had served were the Sanitary, Education, and Old Age Pensions Committees, and the Burial Board. At one time Mr Cottrell was also a member of the Board of Guardians. Mr Cottrell was an energetic Churchman and was a churchwarden of St. Batholomew's Church since its re-building in Montpelier, and for many years previously when the church was in Union Street. Mr Cottrell had been in poor health for some months. At the beginning of this year he had an illness extending over five or six weeks, but he almost entirely recovered and then about three weeks ago he had a return of his bronchial trouble. He was at business within the past fortnight, and his death occurred rather suddenly for he was confined to his room for only three or four days. He was in his 78th year. He was always keenly alive to the needs of the poor and was an exceedingly kind-hearted and sympathetic man. He resided at Cromwell Road, and he leaves a widow and three sons.
18/07/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman Edward Beadon Colthurst
The announcement of the death of Alderman E. Beadon Colthurst, which took place yesterday morning, at his residence, Pembroke Road, Clifton, will occasion widespread regret. Mr Colthurst had not enjoyed good health for a considerable time past. He had sought rest and change in other climes in the hope of recuperating, and although these proved beneficial for a time, they failed to produce permanent benefit. Mr Colthurst, who was 70 years of age, was for many years a member of the well-known firm of Colthurst and Harding, of Temple Gate, but he retired from the business about three or four years ago. He entered the City Council as one of the representatives of Redcliff Ward in January, 1886, and became an alderman in 1891. During the 26 years he has served on the more important committees of the Council, on which his sound judgement and business abilities were of much value. The committees on which he had been recently serving include the Watch, Finance, Pensions, Overseers, Estates, and General Purposes, and Lord Mayor and Sheriff Selection Committee. Mr Colthurst was made a Justice of the Peace in 1894. In politics he was a staunch Conservative. He was a Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers in 1888-9, President of the Parent (Colston) Society in 1896, and a member of the Bristol commercial delegation which visited Canada in the autumn of 1910. Mr Colthurst was a man of genial disposition, and his loss will be mourned by a very large circle of friends in Bristol and elsewhere.
28/08/1913
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Alfred Hellyer
Mr Alfred Hellyer, of 18, Redland Grove, Redland, Bristol, senior partner in the firm of Messrs Hellyer and Crinks, paper merchants, of Victoria Street, left estate valued at £9,814 1s 2d.
22/09/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Mandeville Edwards
Much regret will be occasioned by the announcement of the death of Mr William Mandeville Edwards, for some time chairman of Christopher Thomas Bros., and also known for his interest in public affairs. Mr Edwards was born on March 15th, 1858, and was the son of the Rev. William Edwards (Chaplain to the Bishop of Derry) and grandson of Bishop Edwards, of Derry. After receiving his education at Haileybury College he entered the firm of Rathbone's Eastern Merchants, of London and Liverpool, and was aboard in South Africa for several years. In 1888 he joined the firm of Christopher Thomas and Bros., Limited, the well-known soap and candle makers, of Broad Plain, Bristol, becoming a director on its transformation into a limited company, and a chairman of the directors from 1910 to July 1913, when he retired through ill-health. His many friends hoped that his freedom from business care would have led to a renewal of his former vigour, but he gradually became weaker, and passed away peacefully on Saturday morning.
A Unionist in politics, Mr Edwards held for many years the position of Secretary of the Westbury-on-Trym Unionist Association. In 1906, however, his strong Free Trade principles led him to support the Liberal candidate for the Thornbury Division, Mr Athelstan Rendall. When the Free Trade Union was formed in Bristol, Mr Edwards became President, and continued in his office up to the time of his death. He was a stalwart Churchman, being associated with All Saints', Clifton, and latterly with Stoke Bishop Church. He devoted attention to many social objects. The Navy League had found in him a supporter, and at one time he devoted much work to the Boys' Club in the Bedminster District. He was keenly interested in the affairs of the Chamber of Commerce, and was President of that body in 1903, and since that year he has been a member of the Council of that organisation and of various committees.
As a resident of Stoke Bishop during practically the while of his life in Bristol, Mr Mandeville Edwards took great interest in the local affairs of the district, and for several years was Chairman of the Westbury-on-Trym District Council, presiding over that body through the negotiations which led up to the absorption in the city in 1904, and continuing in office till the Council ceased to exist after the extension of the borough boundaries. He was a man of great modesty and unselfishness whose memory will be long cherished among the workpeople and staff of the Broad Plain Soap Works, with which he had been connected for 25 years up to his recent retirement. Amongst the villagers of the Stoke Bishop district he will be much missed, as he was a man of much unostentatious charity and thought for others.
Mr Edwards had been married twice. His first wife, a sister of the Right Hon. J. S. Sanders, for a long time Mr Balfour's private secretary, died many years ago. His second wife, who survives him, was the daughter of the Rev. William West, rector of St. Pinnock. He leaves two sons - Captain C. W. Edwards, A.S.C., who is attached to the Egyptian Army, and Captain Frank Edwards of the East African Rifles. Both are serving their country in distant Africa, Captain C. W. Edwards being stationed at Khartoum, and Captain Frank Edwards at Nairobi, British East Africa.
13/10/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Hare Leonard
It is with much regret we have to record the death of Mr George Hare Leonard, J.P., who passed away yesterday, at his residence, 9, Alexandra Road, Clifton, at the advanced age of 89 years. Mr Leonard has left behind him the record of an earnest, steadfast life. He shared with Mr Francis Fox the record of being the oldest Magistrate for the city of Bristol, having, like Mr Fox, been appointed as long ago as 1878. A sturdy Nonconformist, Mr Leonard had for a great many years been associated as deacon at Buckingham Chapel, Clifton, and he was, too, at the time of his death, the oldest member of the Young Men's Christian Association, having joined this beneficent movement at the time of its inception, 61 years ago. Apart from his judicial capacity, Mr Leonard devoted himself to the social and religious life of the city rather than its affairs which came more prominently before the public. Those who knew him, however, could tell of a rare Christian character, sympathetic for those who needed sympathy, and charitable to all. He was the last survivor of the late Mr Robert Leonard, J.P., and was the member of the well known firm of coal merchants, Leonard and Bolt, whose interests were for many years associated with the Easton collieries.
11/12/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr S. G. Moxey
The funeral took place yesterday of the late Mr S. G. Moxey, whose death occurred on Saturday at his residence, "The Beeches", Royal Park, Clifton, at the age of 69. The deceased, early in life, joined the staff of the Prudential Assurance Company, at Exeter, and after being at Canterbury, came to Bristol, where he was appointed manager of the Bristol office, retiring from that position some years ago. The deceased was connected with St. James's Vestry and with the Colston Hall Sunday Services. The late Mr Moxey was a prominent Freemason, having been Past Master of the Colston Lodge, 610, and also having held rank in Provincial Grand Lodge. He represented Clifton South Ward on the City Council, and retired in 1912, owing to health considerations.
17/10/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Horlick
The death is announced of one of the oldest and most esteemed residents of Knowle - Mr William Horlick - which took place at his residence, Knowle Road, late on Monday night. Decease was in his 90th year, and in full possession of all his faculties, regularly attending his place of worship up to within a few weeks ago. Mr Horlick was born in Cheltenham in 1824, and was brought to Bristol at the age of six. During all his years he had seen the city undergo many changes. He had a vivid collection of seeing the flare of the Bristol Riots in 1832 from Chelwood, where he was at school; also of taking part in the trades procession in honour of the proclamation of Queen Victoria; and he was one of the rapidly decreasing number who watched the first train steam out of Bristol. His associations for 84 years, with one short interval in London, had been entirely with Bristol. Setting up in business for himself in 1842, at the age of 18, as a baker and confectioner, he traded, amongst other places, in Old Market Street and Old Temple Street (on the site where the statue of Neptune now stands), removing in 1867 to Totterdown, when that suburb was much less populated than it is now. Here he progressed with the development of the neighbourhood. For twenty-five years he was a Guardian of the Poor, and took especial interest in the condition of the inmates of the Workhouse at Bourton. His most intimate and longest of associations were with Counterslip Baptist Chapel, to which he was taken 84 years ago. He was a member of Counterslip for 72 years, and a deacon for 49. For some time he served as a secretary to that church, and up to his death took a keen interest in everything pertaining to its development and well-being. The deceased leaves eight sons to mourn his loss, two of whom hold office at Counterslip Chapel, and two of whom have preached in its pulpit. Mr Horlick took a practical part in the inception of the work of the Totterdown branch of the Y.M.C.A. and was for some years chairman to that institution.
24/08/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Lionel Shingleton-Smith
The announcement of the death of Dr Lionel Shingleton-Smith M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., second son of Dr Shingleton-Smith, Clifton, will be received with great regret by his many personal friends and members of the medical profession. Death resulted from injuries sustained in a motor collision on July 16th. Educated at Clifton College, Bristol University, and Cambridge University, where he took his B.A. degree in 1901, the deceased gentleman was only 43 years of age at the time of his death. He had held several appointments at the Bristol Royal Infirmary, and afterwards was house surgeon at the South Devon Hospital, Plymouth. Later he held many appointments in Brecon, and was hon. physician to the Brecknock County and Borough Infirmary. His services were much appreciated in the town,. Among his many activities was his interest in the Brecon Y.M.C.A., of which he was chairman. The funeral will take place at Arno's Vale Cemetery to-morrow.
12/01/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Percy King
The many friends of Mr Percy Liston King will regret that he died on Friday at his residence, 15, The Avenue, Clifton. For some time past his health had not been good and lately his illness assumed such a serious character that no hope was entertained of his recovery. Mr King was a member of a well known local family, being a son of the late Mr William Poole King, of Clifton. He was educated at Cheltenham College, and was an old member of the Duke of Beaufort's Hunt. He was Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers in the year 1887, and in 1902 on the retirement of Mr George H. Pope he was elected the Society's Treasurer, which office he continued to fill till the present time. It is interesting to note that Mr Percy King was a great great grandson of John King, who was Warden of the Society of Merchant Venturers in the year 1723, and Mayor of Bristol in 1732. Mr King was a member of the Council of the Bristol University, and a trustee of the Bristol Benevolent Society, and, though never prominently before the public, was well known and greatly liked.
19/01/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John William Lane
The serious illness from which Mr John William Lane had been suffering from some time past had a fatal termination on Saturday at his residence, 16, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton. Mr Lane was, we believe, born in 1843, and was educated at the Bristol Grammar School. He joined the firm of John William Lane and Co., corset manufacturers, and succeeded his father as its head in 1867. He was interested in political matters, and was one of the Liberal Four Hundred, but in 1886 left the party owing to his opposition to Mr Gladstone's Home Rule scheme. Afterwards he was somewhat prominent in the Unionist Party. He on a number of occasions became a candidate for a seat on the Council, but his aspirations were in vain, and of late years he has been one of the foremost critics of municipal action, and has, until recently, acted as secretary of the Ratepayers' Protection Association. He served on the Bristol Board of Guardians for a long period, was Deputy Governor in 1891-3 and Governor in 1893-4 and part of 1886. In religious aspects he was a Baptist and had for a considerable period been connected with Tyndale Chapel.
02/02/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Thomas Martin
It will be learned with regret, especially by those associated with municipal affairs, that Mr Samuel Thomas Martin, a member of the City Council, died at his residence, 113, West Street, Bedminster, on Saturday. It had been known for the past week that his condition was such as to give little hope of recovery, his illness having been extended over some considerable time.
Mr Martin had sat in the City Council for Bedminster West Ward since November, 1911, and he was a member of some of the many important committees, including the Education, Health, and National Insurance. Although not a long while in the Council, he had given proof of an earnest interest in the city's welfare and a keen grasp of matters that came up for consideration. At the last meeting of the Bristol Education Committee reference was made to his illness, and tributes were paid by the chairman and vice-chairman to his work. Deceased was 50 years of age.
19/03/1914
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Edward Rowe
Mr Charles Edward Rowe, of Loma, Exeter, Devon, (of the firm of Messrs Rowe Bros, Exeter and Bristol) whose death took place on the 11th January last, left estate valued at £63,421 10s 3d.
24/03/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Kirkpatrick
Mr James Kirkpatrick, who died suddenly at Gloucester on Friday, was for thirty years past a partner in the firm of Messrs Murray and Co., of Bristol. He was well known in commercial circles throughout the West of England; and was a keen angler, spending many leisure hours on the banks of the Usk. He went to Manchester from his home in Dumfriesshire when young, and was for a long time connected with the firm of Messrs Shaw and Son in Manchester. About thirty years ago he left Manchester to join Mr Murray at Bristol.
28/09/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Herbert Ashman
The death of Sir Herbert Ashman, Bart., early on Saturday morning, gave rise to many indications of public regret, and these were coupled with recognitions of his great services to the city. The Lord Mayor took an early opportunity of speaking on the subject, and his words were but a fuller statement of sentiments expressed in general conversation.
By the death of Sir Herbert Ashman, Bristol loses one of the most virile of her citizens, as well as one held in general esteem. In the full vigour of manhood, when his ripe experience was of the greatest use to his fellows, he has succumbed to the effects of an operation for appendicitis, found necessary in consequence of symptoms which manifested themselves while he was engaged on behalf of his country as chairman of the Recruiting Committee meeting daily at Colston Hall. Until then he appeared in the best of health, and greeted his friends with accustomed cheerfulness. After the operation the bulletins announced that he was bearing up well under the trial, but matters took a serious turn, and a useful life was prematurely brought to a close at 6.45 a.m. on Saturday, at his residence, Cook's Folly.
Among the many telegrams and letters received at Cook's Folly, expressing condolence was a communication from the Right Hon. Augustine Birrell.
30/10/1914
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir Herbert Ashman
Sir Herbert Ashman's will has been proved. The net amount of the estate was sworn at £106,481 2s 6d.
30/12/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Captain C. D. W. Bamberger
We deeply regret to announce the death of Captain C. D. W. Bamberger, R.E., eldest son of Mr Louis Bamberger, of London, and also well known in Bristol commercial circles as senior partner in the firm of Taylor and Low Brothers, timber merchants. Capt. Bamberger was a gallant and popular officer, and he died at his post of duty in connection with the execution of some very difficult military engineering work at an anxious moment. Captain Bamberger was attached to the Meerut Division, Indian Expeditionary Force now in Europe, and all his comrades are deeply grieved that he has been killed. But "Who dies if England Live!" The deceased officer, who was in the Royal Engineers, was born on the 22nd of December, 1883. He was educated at University Collage School, and passed into the Royal Military College at Woolwich in January, 1901; became second lieutenant end of 1902, first lieutenant in 1905, captain in 1914. He went to India in 1906, and assisted at the Gungao Weir Nowgong in 1909. He was attached to the Eastern Jumna Canal in 1911, and in October 1912, he joined the Mishmi Road Work Party, Sadiya, Assam. From June, 1913, Captain Bamberger was in charge of Jhanso Division Betwa Canal until he joined the Meerut Division, Indian Expeditionary Force. He was killed on December 19th, whilst helping the Leicester Regiment to build a barricade in a portion of a German trench they had taken. The deepest sympathy will go out to Mr and Mrs Louis Bamberger and the other members of the family in their severe bereavement.
09/04/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Hon. Canon Frederick Vaughan Mather
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. Frederick Vaughan Mather, which took place at The Arches, Clevedon, on Monday. Mr Mather, who has been in retirement for several years, was in his 90th year. He had been an hon. canon of the Bristol Cathedral since 1869, and before his retirement he was a well known figure in the religious life of the city, being for many years vicar of St Paul's, Clifton.
Mr Mather, who was at Trinity College, Cambridge, obtained his B.A. degree in 1847, when he was Wrangler also, and he took his M.A. in 1855. He was ordained deacon in 1847 and priest in 1848 in the Diocese of Gloucester and Bristol. From 1847 to 1851 he was curate of Minchinhampton, and when he left Minchinhampton he took a curacy at Limpsfield, which he held until 1853. It was in that year that he came to Bristol, being instituted as vicar of St Paul's, Clifton. He remained at St Paul's for over forty years, retiring in 1898. He was Examining Chaplain to the Bishop of Gloucester and Bristol from 1865 until 1873, and again from 1897 to 1899. From 1873 to 1876, and again from 1881 until 1892, he was Rural Dean, and was Proctor of the Diocese from 1897 to 1910.
He was author of "Short Sermons for the Year," published in 1872, and seven years later he published "Spiritual Sacrifices", "The Saint's Days and the Holy Eucharist", a series of short sermons for Saint's Days, was issued in 1888.
25/02/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Arthur Robinson
We regret to announce the death of Mr Arthur Robinson, which took place yesterday, after a long illness, at his residence at Lawrence Weston House, Henbury. The deceased was a son of the late Mr Elisha Smith Robinson, and a brother of Mr Edward Robinson, of The Towers, Stoke Bishop, and of Mr Kossuth Robinson of Downleaze. He was born in June 1855, and was therefore in his 58th year. He was educated at private schools and in Paris, and in due course he became one of the managing directors of E. S. and A. Robinson, Ltd., wholesale stationers and printers, Redcliff Street and Bedminster, and until his health gave way took a very active part in the control of that important undertaking. He was a man of sound judgement and possessed other qualifications which made him a great personality in the business. His death will be much regretted, not only by his colleagues on the board, but also by the members of the staff and the employees generally.
In his earlier days Mr Robinson was a keen cricketer, and will be remembered as one of the giants of the game locally - literally as well as figuratively - at the time when Clifton could put out a side stronger than many county teams. Mr Robinson, with tremendous reach, was a batsman who might have met with much success in the first-class game could he have spared the time. As it was, his experience of county play was limited to a few games in 1878, when he had the satisfaction of heading the Gloucestershire averages. Those were the days when one had to be a really good cricketer to get into the County XI, for the three Graces, F. Townsend, W. O. Moberly, W. R. Gilbert, Midwinter, J. Cranston, and other famous cricketers were all at the top of their form. Mr Robinson, although not able to devote much time to county play, devoted himself keenly to the interests of the Clifton Club, and the greatest period of the success of this well-known old club was during his term of captaincy. He was a man of magnificent physique, a heritage which has been handed down to his son, Mr Douglas Robinson, who also possesses his father's love for the national game, and has played for his county. Mr Arthur Robinson interested himself in the formation of the Gloucestershire County Ground Company, and became one of the directors.
Of a retiring disposition, Mr Robinson took no active part in public affairs, but quietly and unostentatiously was ever ready to help in a good cause, and many charitable institutions have been helped by his generosity. He was president of the Grateful Society in 1893, and his collection in aid of the funds of that society amounted to £897. One of the Bristol institutions in which he took a deep interest was the Eye Hospital. He was a member of the Finance Committee, and spared no effort to help forward the institution in every way.
About two years ago Mr Robinson's health began to give way. He was the victim of an internal complaint, which proved to be incurable. He went to reside at Brighton for a time, in the hope that the change might prove beneficial. He returned to Henbury about twelve months ago, and for the past six or seven months has practically been confined to the house. Mr Robinson leaves a widow, four sons, and one daughter to mourn his loss.
03/04/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John William Stone Dix
DEATH OF ALDERMAN DIX
FATHER OF THE CITY COUNCIL
We deeply regret to announce the death of Alderman Dix, the "Father" of the Bristol City Council, which took place yesterday afternoon at his residence, Hampton Lodge, Durdham Down. Some few months ago Mr Dix had a serious illness which confined him to his house for several weeks, but he recovered, and was well enough to be down in the city as recently as last week. An attack of bronchitis brought on prostration, and on Tuesday it became known that his condition was critical. Yesterday morning he was reported to be sinking fast, and therefore the announcement of his death later in the day did not come as a surprise. Mrs Dix died last Saturday, and it was a sad coincidence that Alderman Dix passed away on the day and almost at the hour of the funeral.
Alderman John William Stone Dix was the son of Mr George Dix, and was descended on the maternal side from the Jefferies family, one of the oldest families in Gloucestershire. He was born at Rose Cottage, Two Mile Hill, now within the city boundaries, in 1831; and was educated at Wesleyan College, Taunton. In 1854 he was admitted a solicitor, and practised at the Exchange Buildings, at one time being largely interested in the working of the Poor Law. The connection of his father with what was originally known as the Clifton Union no doubt brought him into contact with Poor Law matters. About June, 1836, the arrangements of the union were complete, the first chairman being Sir William Miles, who did not long remain in that position, and was succeeded by the Rev William Mirehouse some time in 1837. For more than twenty years the vicar of Hambrook occupied the chair, and he won much praise for the manner in which he conducted the public business. Mr George Dix succeeded, and from 1859 to 1867 remained in the chair. He was very painstaking, and under his guidance the affairs of the union were satisfactorily managed. The work in connection with the removals and settlement of paupers, which Mr J. W. S. Dix conducted, brought him frequently into the courts, and he was a well-known figure at Lawford's Gate. It may be incidentally remarked that the name of Barton Regis came to be adopted for the Clifton Union in consequence of a petition from the lodging house keepers and others who thought persons at a distance from the city would think Clifton parish and the union identical. The name of West Gloucestershire for the union was suggested, but the authorities in London declined to have that, and at last Barton Regis was given as the name and formally announced to be authorized from the 14th of March, 1877.
Mr J. W. S. Dix had an extensive general practice in St. George and other localities adjacent. Among the principal cases in which he acted was that in which Mr Sinnott, of Langton Court, took proceedings against the Natham Chemical Company. He was also concerned with the extensive Whittuck estate. A strong Conservative, he took an active interest in politics. He also became deeply engaged in municipal affairs, entering the Council in 1876 as a member for the Bristol Ward, his colleagues being Mr W. K. Whit and Mr George Wills. In 1879 he was again returned for that ward with Mr Wait and Mr Moss Levy, Mr Wills having been transferred to the newly formed ward, St Philip's North. Mr Dix was returned with Mr Wait and Mr E. G. Clarke in 1882, and in 1885 with Mr J. T. Broad and Mr Thomas Baker. He once more was elected a councillor for the ward in 1888. In 1891 he became an alderman of the city, and it may be remarked that Messrs Stock, Bartlett, and himself were chosen aldermen while representing Bristol Ward. Though not a frequent speaker in the Council Chamber, Mr Dix could occasionally speak strongly, and one topic upon which he had a pronounced opinion was the necessity of a stipendiary magistrate for the city. He urged this more frequently when some districts that had been outside Bristol came to be included within the boundaries. The prominent position which Mr Dix held in his party locally led him to be entrusted, with one or two other Conservative members, known as the Warwick Committee, in selecting gentlemen who should be nominated for the office of Mayor, as during many years the Conservatives were in a majority in the Council. The selection of the chief magistrate by one political party in the Council is now a matter of the past. Mr Dix was a member of the present Lord Mayor and Sheriff Selection Committee, and other Council committees of which he was a member were the Watch, New Streets, Sanitary and Improvement, and Parliamentary Bills.
A movement which found Mr Dix an energetic supporter was that which led to the removal of the old swing bridge over the Froom at St Augustine's and the formation of Colston Avenue and gardens at the Tramway Centre. Before the alteration, which had been brought forward several times in the Council, was ultimately adopted, meetings of the citizens in favour of it were held, and Mr Dix at these was a strenuous advocate of the change. He was connected with some local business undertakings, and from being one of the directors of the Bristol Gas Company for many years he became chairman, and had the satisfaction of seeing the offices of the company transferred from the somewhat inconveniently situated structure at Canon's Marsh to the handsome edifice adjoining Colston Hall. On January 23rd last year an interesting gathering was held at the offices of the Bristol Gas Company, at which Mr Dix was presented with a portrait of himself, executed by Miss May Rivers. About 70 officials of the company were present, and Mr John Phillips, who presided, referred to the continuous progress and prosperity of the company during the 23 years Ald. Dix had been a member of the Board, and bore testimony to the great kindness and consideration the staff and employees had always received in his hands. Ald Dix made a felicitous speech in acknowledging the gift. He expressed his appreciation of the kindness of the officials, not only for the nice things which had been said of him and the way in which his name had been received, but also for the great honour which they had done him in making him such a handsome present. He added that he looked back with the greatest pleasure upon his connection with the company, and reminded them that he attained his majority in the proceeding March, having then been chairman for 21 years. Oliver's Limited, formed to take over the business of Mr D. S. Oliver, wine and spirit merchant, was another undertaking over which he presided. He was a Freemason, being a member of the Royal Sussex Lodge of Hospitality, 187. He was appointed a magistrate for Bristol in 1888.
The subject of archaeology possessed stimulations for him, and when Mr John Reynolds organised his archaeological excursions, sometimes to the Continent, Mr Dix took part in the researches with enthusiasm. Subsequently he became a member of the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society, and attended some of their seminar meetings.
As a lover of horticulture, Mr Dix gave much attention to the cultivation of indoor and greenhouse plants.
He was three times married. His first wife was Miss Bryant, and they resided at Whitehall. After her death he lived with his father at Rose Cottage. His second wife, who had been Miss Brain, only lived nine months after their marriage. Subsequently he was wedded to Miss Peters, and by her he had two sons, one of whom died in infancy. The other, Mr Hardcastle Dix, was well known, especially in the Commercial Rooms. He will be remembered by his careful meteorological observations. His death was keenly felt by Mr J. W. S. Dix. A sister of the deceased married Mr Sibly, master of the Wesleyan Collegiate School, Tanton, and on e of their sons, Mr Thomas Dix Sibly, who was articled to his uncle, was a solicitor of Bristol, having offices in the Exchange. His death occurred a year or two ago, and was much felt by Mr Dix.
08/07/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Joseph Storrs Fry
DEATH OF MR J. STORRS FRY
A GREAT PHILANTHROPIST
We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, which took place last evening at his residence, 16, Upper Belgrave Road, in his 87th year. Mr Fry had been in failing health for a considerable time. During the last week he had gradually become weaker, and the end came very peacefully at about half-past eight last evening.
SPECIAL MEMOIR
Mr Joseph Storrs Fry was born on the 6th August, 1826, in Union Street, in one of the houses which are now incorporated in the immense pile of buildings devoted to the business of the firm that has gained world-wide reputation. The manner in which the old and the new are blended in this thoroughfare is a curious feature of other parts of the city, for passing through the old section of the building wherein Mr Joseph Storrs Fry was born, one looks out upon substantial piles of modern buildings which have arisen to take the place of ancient domiciles and their squalid surroundings. When young, Mr Fry was for a time with Messrs Fletcher and Co., accountants, on the Exchange, the office subsequently occupied by Messrs Curtis and Jenkins until they removed to Corn Street. He here acquired those habits which were found by him so useful when he with his relatives came to control the vast factory in Union Street and Nelson Street. Practically he spent the greater part of his life in the immediate locality, and lived to witness many developments. He was the eldest son of Mr Joseph Fry whose other sons were Sir Edward Fry (who became a Queen's Counsel, and after a distinguished career at the Equity Bar, was raised to the bench in 1877, and made a Lord Justice of the Appeal Court in 1883); the late Mr Albert Fry (who for many years was managing director of the Bristol Wagon Works), and the Right Hon. Lewis Fry. Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, with his brother (the future judge), went to school in Park Row. His cousin, Mr Francis James Fry, who was associated with him in business, has for some time resided at Cricket St, Thomas, in Somerset. Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, who was unmarried, resided with his mother in Charlotte Street, Park Street, and subsequently at Upper Belgrave Road, Durdham Down. His form was well known in Bristol.
He stood erect under his load of years, a great English manufacturer and a noble illustration of a true Christian. A keen business man, as any could perceive who happened to meet him in the countinghouse, one who took account of the expansion alike of the export trade and its industrial environments, and withal a thorough illustration of what a man should be who took to heart the "Sermon on the Mount". One of the "Signposts of Success" in 'Cassell's Magazine' contained the advice of Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, whose prescription was brief, but involved much. "To sum," he said, "I give as some of the real secrets of success: Firmness of character, unflagging industry, and unfailing reliability in all relations in life, to which must be added a constant endeavour to work only for the noblest ends."
PHILANTHROPIC ENDEAVOURS
If anyone ever deserved the appellation of being a philanthropist it was Mr Fry; his benevolence was bounded by no limitations of creed or sect, and by no considerations of locality. Indeed, with the Frys philanthropy is not a merely casual thing. It is with them, as has been observed, a principle resting upon a sense of duty to those about them and to the city in which they have for more than two centuries striven and thrived. Nor is their benevolence confined by such bounds, since far and wide they have made their name synonymous with practical charity. As to Mr Joseph Storrs Fry, it only needed a cause to want support, and to require the open hand as well, as the sympathetic heart, for him to extend his bounty. Not that he imparted his wealth indiscriminately, or was ready to contribute towards any object that might be brought under his notice, without having first satisfied himself of the genuineness of the appeal and the bona fides of those who might back it up. Some years ago, in spite of his care, he had been victimized by a young man who had not only obtained money from Mr Fry, but also from certain other philanthropic gentlemen. The offender happened, however, to fall into the clutches of the police, and he was tried before the Recorder of Bristol, at that time Mr A. R. Poole. Mr Fry was called upon to give evidence, and having made his affirmation in the witness-box, the Recorder, addressing him, said that he was known to be a philanthropist. Mr Fry admitted it, but qualified his statement by remarking that he would not have it supposed he gave assistance without first making inquiries. So widely known was the deceased gentleman's liberality towards deserving objects that in his private room, Union Street, he found himself each morning confronted by a formidable mass of correspondence. The letters were gone through in a systematic manner, and help extended in every instance which appealed to the donor's sense of the need. It scarcely requires recording that such associations as the Bristol Benevolent Institution and the Grocers' Benevolent Society found in him a liberal supporter. When any great calamity occurred involving suffering to a large number of persons, Mr Fry and his firm were sure to be noble contributors; and whether the event happened in this country or abroad, the open hand would be extended.
A MAN OF BROAD SYMPATHIES
While a consistent member of the Society of Friends, Mr Fry sympathised with all kinds of movements which commanded themselves to his judgement, and so thoroughly did this become known that he was constantly in request to preside over gatherings of different religious bodies. Anniversaries of missionary societies; breakfast meetings for specific objects, such as extending a welcome to some celebrated personage accredited by the churches, or for discussing particular aims, as the abolition of the opium traffic, were certain to find in him a ready supporter. He was a warm friend to the large Bible class for adults in connection with Old Market Street Wesleyan Chapel, presided over by Mr C. R. Parsons, and sometimes delivered addresses to the class. He was specially drawn towards the Young Men's Christian Association, and the original building in St James's Square, and the fine structure at Totterdown owed much to his liberality.
LITERARY PROCLIVITIES
His philanthropic disposition was manifested in respect to Bristol University. Speaking at the opening of a Wesleyan Mission Bazaar at the Broad Weir Hall in May, 1909, he alluded to the charter for the Bristol University by the Privy Council which had just been granted. He said he was sure they must be all delighted that they now had the honour of being a University city. That event must be very gratifying to them all, and not only had they to thank those who were still living, but some who laboured in the past were no longer with them to rejoice at such a happy culmination of their hopes and aspirations. That might seem to be an event far apart from the interest of the present moment, but he did not think it was quite so far from their interest that day as it appeared to be, for he was very glad to notice that men of the highest intellectual and academic culture were giving serious and earnest attention to a solution of some of those problems of social and religious life which concerned those who lived in great cities. The establishment of a University therefore might in no small manner minister to the somewhat similar work in which they were engaged in furthering that afternoon.
Mr Fry always possessed a great liking for poetry, and himself made attempts to rhyme. The Society of Friends have their Meeting House on ground once part of the Dominican Friary. A poem written in his younger days by the deceased narrates how the abbot "still and sad" in his lonely hall had a dream, a premonition of the time when "the fair hall" should be in the hands of
Men who wholly act at naught,
All the church has ever taught,
their heresy even extending to allowing "that a woman too may preach."
WITH HIS WORKPEOPLE
Any one meeting Mr Fry at the many religious and philanthropic meetings which he attended, and where the promoters were only too delighted to have him upon their platforms, might perhaps fancy that his sympathies for general objects of an ameliorative tendency precluded any close attention to the well-being of the numerous people in the employ of his firm. Such a supposition however would be altogether at variance with the facts. A religious service is held at the factory every morning at nine o'clock, the service consisting of prayer, the singing of one or two hymns, and a short address, which, when Mr Fry delivered it, was particularly impressive. The address in the large hall was frequently given by him, other services being conducted by earnest men who had been connected with the firm during a long series of years.
To see Mr Joseph Storrs Fry to particular advantage was when a huge tea meeting given by the firm to the workpeople took place. Remembrances of these mammoth gatherings in the original large Colston Hall will abide while life lasts in the breasts of those present upon the deeply interesting occasions. Though a bachelor, he invited the wives to accompany their husbands, no fewer than three evenings being required to accommodate the entire company, spacious as the building might be. Mr Fry presided, and had the Mayor of Bristol on his right hand. To sketch the proceedings, it might be said that after tea the National Anthem was sung heartily, and then the evening would be chiefly devoted to sacred song, addresses by well-known Church of England clergymen, Nonconformist ministers, and others who were known as effective platform speakers. Mr Fry, of course, had something to say to the guests, and every word the aged and beloved gentleman uttered was listened to with profound interest. A sentence from his address at one of these meetings may be quoted, "I am persuaded that it is the Divine purpose that our business life should not interfere with, but rather be a help to, the spiritual life". In that utterance the character of the generous employer was as strikingly expressed as it was possible to convey it.
FREEDOM OF THE CITY
It was a distinction well deserved by the recipient when Mr Joseph Storrs Fry was presented with the Freedom of the City. Upon September 14th, 1908, the Lord Mayor (Mr Edward Robinson) submitted to the Council a resolution in favour of conferring the honorary freedom of the city upon Mr Fry and Mr H. Overton Wills, and it met with unanimous support, the action of the Council being heartily endorsed by the citizens. A special meeting was arranged for October 29th in order to admit the new freemen and present them with their certificates. The ceremony, which took place in the new Council Chamber, was impressive, the only matter for regret being that Mr H. O. Wills was unable to attend.
When Mr Fry was informed in September that the Council decided to confer upon him the honorary freedom of the city, he wrote to the Lord Mayor a letter, in which, after expressing his thanks for the distinction, he continued:-
"Although I cannot claim to have performed public services for my own city or the country such as those who have fallen to the lot of others who have previously received a similar honour to that which has been bestowed upon me, I can yield to none of them in love for the city in which I was born and in which I have lived during the whole of my long life, or in earnest desire for the welfare of its inhabitants. It is my conviction that the real welfare of the community depends upon the acceptance by its members of those principles which affect the fundamental conditions of life and character, and with this view I have felt it my duty to devote a good deal of my time and attention to matters which relate to the moral and spiritual condition of the people, and that message of Divine love in the Gospel of Christ which is the balm of the healing of the nations. I have been much touched by the manner in which my fellow citizens have accepted your proposal, and can assure them all that whilst fully recognizing the honour which has been conferred upon me, I am deeply conscious of my own many shortcomings, and hope that the remaining days of my life, which are not likely to be many, may be more faithfully employed in any services which I am capable of rendering".
REMINISCENCES OF A LONG LIFE
The speech which Mr Fry delivered on the occasion of being presented with the freedom of the city contained some interesting reminiscences. In the course of his remarks, he said:
"In thinking of the city in which he dwell, I have been led to just cast my thoughts back to the condition in which the city was, and its inhabitants at the time I came into the world, now rather more than 83 years ago. At that time the population of Bristol - the old city and the surrounding districts all of which, I suppose, have now been embodied in the present city of Bristol - must have been something between 80,000 and 90,000. Since that time the population must have increased fourfold, and the condition of things in almost every respect has changed. I have often even felt - as I daresay all who are my age have felt - that I live in another world than that in which I was born. Everything seems to have changed: in many respects - I will not say in all respects - for the better (Hear, hear). I am not a pessimist. Old men are sometimes praisers of the past, and naturally so. We look back upon our youthful enthusiasm with pleasure: we do not remember the troubles: we chiefly remember the joys of the past. Yet on looking back upon the past, as far as I can remember it - happy as it has been mostly under God's mercy - I can recognise the great progress that has been made in almost every direction. In the development of human resources and industries; education, and almost every part of human life seems to have expanded and grown during that time. When I was born in Bristol there was no railway, no railway station. It was not until several years after that the portion of the Great Western Railway which connects with London was opened. I myself travelled by the first public train over that part of the Midland Railway which was then the old Bristol and Gloucester Railway, in the year 1846. Then, of course, we had no telegraphs or telephones, and the communication with all parts of the world was very inferior indeed to what it is now. The fastest coach between Bristol and London I am informed by the present pastmaster, took 11.5 hours to accomplish the journey. The cost of a letter from London was ten pence, and the cost of letters to more distant places was proportionately higher. The educational affairs of the city were in a very imperfect condition. There were some good schools even then, and I was a scholar at the old Bristol College, which, expiring, I suppose, from want of support, was replaced afterwards by another college. The educational institutions then were very different from those we now enjoy. Elementary education was exceedingly deficient. There were a few schools, but a large number of boys and girls grew up without any opportunity for education. What became of them afterwards one does not know. Now, happily, owing in a large degree to the liberality of Mr Wills, the educational facilities are crowned with the University, and the poorest boy or girl may climb the educational ladder from the most excellent elementary schools, through the various grades of education, to the highest rung that can now be reached. And although there are many things remaining which could be other than they are, still I do not take a pessimistic view of the present condition of the world, but a rather hopeful one. I am afraid sometimes we are wanting in gratitude to those who devote themselves to the interests of the city, and I am taking the opportunity, which I may never have again, of expressing what are my own feelings, and the feelings, I believe, of all right-minded citizens, that we are under a strong sense of indebtedness toward you gentlemen, who are devoting so much time, energy, ability, business tact, and power to the business of our city. You have to develop the resources which have been opened up for your use. This city, although so greatly increased in population and size, is capable of much further development. Almost all interests of every kind - commercial, educational, and benevolent - require assistance and the cooperation of all who are willing to assist in the spreading of happiness and blessing among those with whom they live. Therefore I earnestly desire that you may be prospered in the great work you have in hand, and that the ability may be given you to discharge all your duties. You have a great work in the development of the port. With regard to the resources of our new dock, all the business energy and ability you have will be required to keep pace with the growing commerce of the world, that we may have our share, and take our place in the future as we have in the past amongst the great cities of the Empire."
IN PRAISE OF PIETY
At the Christian Endeavour Convention in Bristol, held on May 31st 1909, the deceased was invited to speak, and delivered a genial address in the course of which he said that he looked upon movements of that kind as lying at the very root of national welfare and prosperity. When Robert Burns was selecting a topic for one of his greatest poems, he chose a very simple theme: he just described in the "Cottar's Saturday Night" a simple Scotch labourer in his humble cottage on a Saturday evening opening the Bible and conducting his simple family worship with prayer and praise in the humble home. "From scenes like these old Scotia's grandeur springs" - he attributed the grandeur of Scotland not to physical force or even the learning of her people - the poet spoke rightly, because he felt the great springs of national welfare lay in the homes and lives of the people of the country, and that when they relied merely upon physical forces they were greatly mistaken with regard to the great motives which underlay all human progress. So he looked upon that movement in connection with Sunday school work and other Christian institutions - of course placing the Church of Christ foremost - he looked upon that movement and those often silent and unobserved influences, as great springs of action.
Not merely during what may be called the active period of existence did Mr Fry by example demonstrate the serious character of life. For beyond what had come to be considered the allotted period he was busy in a private and public capacity in the cause of benevolence. For a short time laid aside through illness, he resumed his career of usefulness directly the medical advisor allowed him to quit his residence. It seemed little short of a miracle to listen to him soon after at a nurses' gathering held in the General Hospital. His address was excellent, and although the delivery of the words manifested great weakness, he kept the interest of his hearers unabated. Even when he had, through physical inability, to be assisted on to the platform, he put in an appearance at religious and philanthropical gatherings, with the objects of which he sympathised.
So Mr Fry made his influence felt by gentle and earnest endeavours. He was the friend of every good cause, and whether it was a small private benefaction, or a gift of thousands of pounds, whether it was some little mission room in the slums of Bristol, or a great scheme like Bristol University, he was equally interested. The things that made for the betterment of the people were all great to him.
02/01/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Newth
We regret to announce the death of Alderman Charles Newth, J.P., which took place yesterday afternoon at his residence, Woodside, Redland Grove, in his seventy-second year. The son of the late Mr John Newth, Mr Charles Newth was born at Bristol in 1841. He was educated locally, and commenced business in 1876 as a wholesale cabinet maker. The business was conducted for many years at premises in Broadmead which are still retained at showrooms, but rapid developments made it necessary, several years ago, to acquire much larger premises, and the works are now carried on in an extensive range of buildings extending from Milk Street to Callowhill Street, and two sons - Mr Arthur E. Newth and Mr Herbert Newth - are partners in the business which is carried on under the style of Messrs C. Newth and Sons.
For fifteen years Mr Newth was a member of the old Board of Commissioners for the District Ward, and performed good and active service. He was elected to the Bristol City Council for the District Ward on the retirement of Mr Charles Townsend in March, 1893, and continued to represent the ward until December 1908, when he was elected an alderman. He has served on several of the Council committees, including the Overseers and the Watch Committees. He was also a justice of the peace, his name having been added to the Commission in 1902.
In politics he was an ardent Liberal, and held for some years the position of Chairman of the District Ward Liberal Association and treasurer of the Bristol North Liberal Federation. He was a member of the Bristol Incorporation of the Poor for eight years, and took a great interest in the administration of the Poor Law, especially affecting children and the inmates of the workhouse.
He was a member of the Baptist denomination, a deacon of City Road Chapel, of which he was also treasurer, a vice-president of the Sunday School, and for many years superintendent. Mr Newth was also noted for his interest in matters appertaining to music and choral societies. He was a man of kindly disposition and endeared himself to a very large circle of friends. His health broke down about four years ago, but for which he would in all probability have been selected for the honourable position of Lord Mayor of his native city. A long period of rest led to an improvement in his health, and he was again able for some months to resume his municipal duties, but a few weeks ago there was a relapse, and for some days it had been known that his condition was extremely critical. Had Alderman Newth been spared until June, he would have celebrated his golden wedding.
At yesterday's meeting of the City Council a vote of condolence with the family of the late Alderman Newth was passed.
27/03/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Clifton Bingham
The death of Mr Clifton Bingham which occurred suddenly yesterday, put to silence one of the "sweet singers" of the West Country. Mr Bingham was a member of an old Bristol family, and his earlier adventures in authorship were made through the columns of the "Bristol Observer". But story writing - though he took fairly high rank as a fictionist - was not Mr Bingham's metier. He was a master of a peculiar felicity of expression in verse, especially when dealing with the sentimental aspects of life, and it was, therefore, as a song-writer, that Mr Bingham established his reputation, which was world-wide. His smooth lines and delicate thoughts lent themselves well to the maker of music, and Mr Bingham was fortunate in finding several composers who were closely in sympathy with his own ideals, enthusiasms, and methods of expression. Thus the songs of Mr Clifton Bingham winged their way to the furthest corners of the earth, and they were like the arrows, shot at random, that fall into the pleasant places. Mr Bingham was a perfect master of his craft, and though there may be a subtle distinction between poetry and versification for the purposes of musical treatment, it must be conceded that Mr Bingham did much to obliterate the line of demarcation, and to raise the literary standard of what in early Victorian times was known as the ordinary "drawing-room ballad". Mr Bingham was a talented balladist, but he was more than that. From the multitude of songs of which Mr Bingham was the author it would be difficult to make a brief list of those which were intrinsically the best. But the palm of favour fell to such ballads as "In Old Madrid", "Love's Old Sweet Song", and "The Promise of Life". The popularity of these and some others is perennial, and the songs should constitute Mr Bingham's chief contribution to the minstrelsy of his own land.
07/07/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Nichol Reid
It is with very deep regret that we have to announce the death, yesterday, at his residence, Woodcote, Tyndall's Park, of Mr William Nichol Reid, after an illness extending over three months.
Mr W. N. Reid, who was the only son of Mr Walter Reid, the proprietor of the 'Western Daily Press', the 'Bristol Evening News', and the 'Bristol Observer', had been engaged in journalistic work all his adult life, with the exception of two prolonged journeys, one to the United States and Japan, and the other to South Africa, taken in the interests of his health, which at these times was not robust. Educated at the Bristol Grammar School under Dr Caldicott, Mr Nichol Reid always maintained the keenest interest in his old school. He was a promoter and a most active supporter of the Grammar School Old Boys' Society, of which he was President two or three years ago. Everything connected with the school had his heartiest sympathy, and there was no more loyal 'Old Boy'. Deeply interested also in religious and philanthropic work, Mr Reid was limited in his activities only by considerations of health. For years he was a Sunday school teacher at Highbury Chapel, and for years also was a leading spirit in the Bristol Housing Committee, which advocated legislation that has now been partially accomplished, and endeavoured to see that the laws that tended to the welfare of the poor in the matter of housing were effectively administered. His sympathies with religious and philanthropic work were wide, and embraced many various forms of beneficial activity. His concern for the physical as well as the moral welfare of the young men engaged in the printing trade was marked in his presidency of the United Press Cricket Club, for which in former years he played, and the fortunes of which he followed with unfailing zest. A member of the Institute of Journalists from its foundation, he was at the last annual meeting elected President for the current year of the Bristol District, which covers a wide area, and every member will deplore the close of his useful career.
The references hitherto have been to the sympathies and activities that have been known to his many friends outside the walls of the office of this paper, but those who have been associated with him in journalistic work, especially those whose connection with him has extended over many years, realise how completely and devotedly he applied all his powers to the business of his life. With practical acquaintance of more than one department of journalistic work, he brought long experience to his duty in later years of carrying on in conjunction with his father, whose partner he became, the management of the affairs of this office. No more careful and conscientious worker ever lived, but his friends and colleagues think with affection and respect chiefly of the high moral qualities, the unvarying kindness of his manner, the deep desire for the welfare of every member of the staff, the manifest aim to do his duty with a deep sense of responsibility, which he displayed. It would not be seemly for those who have been connected with him for long years in daily work, to express publicly their full sense of the loss they have sustained by his death. But the friends of Mr Nichol Reid who have known and esteemed him in connection with work and enterprises outside the ordinary duties of his occupation will be ready to believe that those who were brought into more intimate association with him will never cease to cherish the affectionate memory of a life that was always inspired by sincere attachment to right and duty.
Mr Reid leaves a widow to whom the staff of the 'Western Daily Press' desires to extend its deep and respectful sympathy.
01/06/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis Frederick Fox
DEATH OF A MUCH RESPECTED CITIZEN
LONG AND USEFUL CAREER
We regret to announce the death of Mr Francis F. Fox, one of the most respected citizens of Bristol, and one formerly prominent in many of its activities. He passed away on Sunday night at his residence, Yate House, Yate. Mr Fox was eighty two years of age.
Francis Frederick Fox was the second son of Francis Ker Fox, M.D., of Brislington House. He was born March 15th, 1833, and was educated at Bath and Shrewsbury. For many years he was head of the firm of Francis Frederick Fox and Company, oil and colour merchants, 22, Little George Street, Froom Bridge, Bristol. He married Alice, eldest daughter of Mr Richard Jenkins Poole King, of Kensington House, Brislington, who was rightly regarded one of the leading Bristolians about forty years ago, as besides being the head partner in the firm of Messrs King, African Merchants, Redcliff Wharf, he was President of the Conservative Association, and one of the most prominent members of the City Council.
Mr F. F. Fox, in addition to great business ability, gained in his private capacity a high reputation in the Council. He was elected alderman from 1865 to 1871, and again in March 1875, onwards. He remained in the position for a long period, and during that time proved his usefulness as a public man upon several occasions, coming forward prominently during the discussions concerning the rival docks in 1882. The undertakings at Avonmouth and Portishead were competing strongly for the ocean trade, and at length as the city suffered seriously through the rivalry, a Harbour Trust Association was proposed to unite the docks into one property under the supervising of a board. This proposition was defeated in the Council, but at length public opinion amongst the uncompromising attitude of the two dock companies made itself felt, and at a subsequent meeting the competition between the city and the two dock companies, and the squandering of £25,000 a year as a scandal and reproach to all, moved that the Mayor (Sir Joseph Weston) be requested to communicate with the belligerents with a view to an equitable arrangement. Alderman Fox's resolution was adopted unanimously, and the Mayor's intervention put an end to the conflict.
A MODEL OF WHAT A COUNCILLOR SHOULD BE
Much regret was expressed in the Council Chamber when the deceased intimated his intention of ceasing to be an alderman. After Council assembled December 10, 1901, a letter was received from him resigning the position which he had held during thirty-two years. The Lord Mayor made some feeling remarks relative to the service rendered by Alderman Fox, and proposed a resolution recording high appreciation of the ability and courtesy which he displayed in dealing with questions coming from time to time before the civic fathers. In seconding the proposition, Ald. William Pethink said that they looked upon Ald. Fox as a model of what a member of the Council should be.
Several members gave expression to their high appreciation of the departing civic ruler before the resolution was cordially adopted. Every note of praise that was sounded in the Chamber found a responsive echo in the hearts of the citizens when they read what was stated in the local journals. The opinion was expressed that when men of his calibre, earnestness of purpose, and tireless perseverance had earned the reward of repose, would it not be well that their memory and bright example should be perpetuated for the benefit of the emulative generations that are to come? In the course of the discussion in the Council, the suggestion was thrown out that the busts of such men should occupy a niche within the precincts of the Council Chamber.
OTHER PUBLIC WORK
The deceased was Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers in 1877 and 1878, and he was followed in that capacity by Sir George William Edwards, Mr Charles Bowles Hare immediately preceding him. For a long period Ald. Fox resided at Yate House, Chipping Sodbury, and he was not only a magistrate for the city of Bristol, but also for the county of Gloucester. He became a justice of the peace for Bristol in March, 1878, and several citizens of mark were appointed at the same time, most of whom pre-deceased him. Other public appointments held by Ald. Fox were those of a trustee of the Municipal Charities and a commissioner of income tax. In 1869 he was president of the Grateful Society, his collection amounting to £703, which was less than that of Mr J. P. Gilbert, the president for 1868, though considerably more than the amount received by Mr John Hellicar, who presided in 1870. He was president of the Parent Society, an association chiefly of Redcliff men who keep in remembrance the name and work of Edward Colston, in 1879. The extent of Ald. Fox's knowledge of local matters was considerable, and on account of his urbanity he was frequently appealed to for information. When the Rev. Alfred B. Beaven prepared his work "Bristol Lists: Municipal and Miscellaneous", he dedicated it to Ald. Fox "who both by his private researches, and in his official character, has done so much to create and foster a more general interest in the history of our city". Mr Beaven in his preface, expressed a sense of the deceased's kindness in giving him access to his valuable collection of Bristol books, as well as in supplying information from his vast store of personal knowledge of men and things in relation to the last half century of local history. Ald. Fox was sheriff of Bristol for the year 1880-81.
LOVE FOR ARCHAEOLOGY
Archaeology possessed great charm for the deceased, who spent a considerable amount of money and time in the pursuit of his favourite study. No more earnest member of the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society could be found, and he rendered excellent service upon the council of the society. In July, 1900, when the Archaeologists met at Bath, he was elected president, and delivered an interesting address at the Guildhall, the retiring president being Mr G. S. Bazley. He further evinced his desire to do what he could to render that meeting of the society a success by giving an address at night on "Hood Screens" with limelight illustrations. When Sir Brook Kay, Bart., ceased to be president of the council, Mr Fox was chosen for the position. It must have been in accordance with his antiquarian proclivities that on August 10, 1882, and while he was living at Madeley House, Clifton, he presided at the dinner of the Gloucestershire Society held at the Grand Hotel, Broad Street. The society, established in 1857, did much good through the benevolence extended to the poor women and by apprenticing lads to trades. The time-honoured ballad, "Georges Ridler's Oven" was invariably sung at the "Gloucestershire Feast", and the covert allusions to Cavaliers and Roundheads had their usual points emphasized under the presidency of Mr Fox. Though the society still exists, the dinners have ceased to be held. During some of his later years the deceased, through increasing deafness, was compelled to relinquish some of his public engagements.
BOOKS ON BRISTOL GUILDS
Occasionally he ventured upon authorship, his principal work being "Some Account of the Ancient Fraternity of Merchant Taylors of Bristol, with Transcripts of Ordnance, and other Documents", the title page stating that the book "was written by Francis F. Fox, late Master of the Society of Merchant Venturers and one of the Trustees of the Merchant Taylors". Written in 1890 there were 50 copies printed by J. Wright and Co., Bristol, for private circulation. The deceased dedicated his work to Mr John Taylor, of the Bristol Museum and Library, saying in the introduction that to him was entirely due whatever credit attached to the compilation, as he originated the idea of examining the records of the Merchant Taylors' Guild in Bristol. He stated that Mr Taylor's judgement selected the information most worthy of notice from the records. Mr Fox added that he hoped the work might survive as a memorial of their friendship.
Another book pertaining to a local guild was "Some Account of the Guild of Weavers in Bristol, edited by Francis F. Fox, of Yate House, and John Taylor, City Librarian". This volume was privately printed and published ny William George's Sons, Park Street, 1889. The work was inscribed "to the master, wardens, and commonalty of freemen of the art and mystery of cloth workers of the city of London", as some acknowledgement of the interest they had shown in the University College of Bristol.
The literary side of Mr Fox's character was very pronounced, and he delighted in the atmosphere of a library. When he went to reside at Yate House he commissioned a Bristol building firm to erect a spacious room adjoining the mansion, and this was fitted up in a fashion calculated to gladden the hearts of all book lovers. Some thousands of volumes - many rare, and all good editions, were here carefully arranged. Few occasions afforded Mr Fox more gratification than having given the "open sesame" to this portion of his dwelling to an inveterate devourer of printed matter to listen to the pleased astonishment of the visitor at seeing so goodly a collection of works. When the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society had a meeting in the neighbourhood they were entertained by Mr Fox, and spent considerable time in appraising the legacies bequeathed by dead authors. There was no more distinguished trait of Mr Fox's character than his urbanity. He could never be other than courteous, and a more popular gentleman never occupied a civic position in the city of Bristol.
13/09/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr T. Sherwood Smith
TRIBUTE TO A LONG LIFE WELL SPENT
Mr T. Sherwood Smith, who passed away at his residence, Gloucester Row, Clifton, on Friday evening in his 94th year, was buried yesterday afternoon at Arno's Vale. The interment was preceded by a service at Buckingham Baptist Chapel, Clifton, where deceased was a regular attendant in recent years, having formerly worshipped at Counterslip Chapel. The service was conducted by the Rev. E. L. Hamilton (pastor) assisted by the Rev. J. H. Rees (Counterslip).
A NOTABLE CITIZEN
The Rev. J. H. Rees gave an address in which he said that in the death of Mr Sherwood Smith, Bristol had lost one of its finest and most notable citizens. After a career of varied interests and of high integrity of character and purpose he came to his grave full of years and full of honours. They did not mourn for their friend. He had laid down the burden of the long years and laid it down with a will. The task was o'er, the race run, the course completed, and no vain regrets remained. He just waited the Master's call Home. There could be no sadness of farewell that he had crossed the bar and met the Pilot face to face. He would not wish to do so, and therefore, they would rather think with thankfulness of the long voyage and of the wealth of the voyage as he entered the haven to receive his Lord's "Well done". He breasted many a storm in his day as those who put principle before place always had to encounter. He fought many a hotly-contested battle for the ideal, as he saw it, and always with clean hands. He had the soul of a reformer. The passion of conviction glowed like lambent fires within him. The men of conviction and loyalty to the highest were always men of progress. They were the heralds of the better day coming. Self was lost in the larger interests of the community, in the common good. Mr Sherwood Smith was a man of open vision and therefore a man who never ceased to grow. The price of old age was the peril of growing old, old in spirit and sympathy, the peril of lingering with the memories of things that had passed on and became absorbed in the new movements of advancing time. But their friend retained to the last his youthfulness of spirit, his enthusiasm of things that mattered in the life of today. Not that he refused to dwell lovingly upon the past or refrained from recalling the stirring days of his more active life. He was rich in reminiscences, but he never lost sight of the prospect. He kept an open widow towards Jerusalem. He was a pilgrim of hope, and thus he was the comrade and encourager of youth. The old warrior gloried in every response to the trumpet call for wider liberty and a purer state. He rejoiced in the younger hands that carried the banner of progress to battle. The speaker added that he need not enter into any particulars of his career. Those had already appeared in the 'Daily Press'. Sufficient to say that at the root of all he was and all he did faith in God was found as the impelling motive, as the constant inspiration and unfailing resource of his life. That faith was also expressed in humble devotion to the Saviour and profound regard for the interest of the church, particularly the church of his adoption. He was the friend of every good cause. He loved all men and feared none. He was a gentleman by nature, and grace preserved and enriched that nature until it shone with a clear steady and unfading radiance. They honoured and thanked God for the memory of a noble man, who lived out his life as the light. That day they laid the tabernacle of clay in which he dwelt in the keeping of mother-earth until the day dawned and the shadows fled away, but the man, the spirit of him that moved and thought and felt and knew the thrill of living and doing, lived on in the eternity of God.
Prayer was offered by the Rev. E. L. Hamilton.
11/08/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Acraman Greenslade
SUDDEN DEATH OF MR W. A. GREENSLADE
By the death of Mr William Acraman Greenslade, which happened with tragic suddenness at Liverpool on Saturday, Bristol has lost a citizen who for many years has been held in the highest esteem. A week ago to-day a small company of friends - gentlemen well known in professional and commercial circles - entertained him to a farewell dinner, for Mr Greenslade was sailing on the following Friday for a business tour in America. The gathering was a singularly happy one, and the "few words" spoken in proposing the health of the guest of the evening served but to show how singularly popular Mr Greenslade was. Two days later Mr Greenslade, accompanied by his wife, travelled North. They stopped the night at Chester and went on to Liverpool on Saturday morning to embark on the steamship by which the deceased was to travel to America which sailed in the afternoon. Mr Greenslade was not feeling well, and his condition became so much worse as they were driving to the docks that it was deemed advisable to stop at the house of a medical man. Before the doctor could be seen, however, Mr Greenslade expired, heart disease being the cause of death. Needless to say the news, which only became generally known in the city yesterday, was received with the deepest regret.
Mr Greenslade, whose firm - E. A. and W. Greenslade, brush manufacturers, of Thomas Street - is well known and has been considerably developed in recent years, was keenly interested in the commercial development of Bristol, and in this connection experience gained during trips to Canada and America was turned to good account. He was a member of the Council of the Chamber of Commerce, and identified himself zealously with developments undertaken by this body for the furthering of the trade of the port. By his attendance at the Chamber of Commerce he was held in the highest esteem, and his presence will be greatly missed at the offices in Small Street as well as at the Commercial Rooms, the Liberal Club, and other spheres of activity with which he was associated.
Since the war Mr Greenslade has given abundant evidence of his great [unclear]. Three of his sons have been called as commissioned officers to the colours, one being a prisoner of war in Germany. As a member of the Bristol Citizens' Recruiting Committee he was in daily touch with the work being done at the Guildhall, and as late as on the day he left Bristol - he was at the Recruiting Office. His desire to do something for soldiers who, through injuries sustained in battle, were unable to follow their usual vocation in life, led him to make an offer to the War Office to train a number of men in brush making, guaranteeing them a certain wage, with the prospect of their becoming expert workers and thus gaining their own livelihood.
13/11/1915
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman Joseph Pembery
A FRIENDLY SOCIETY STALWART
We regret to announce the death of Alderman Joseph Pembery, a man who has been prominent in the friendly society movement for many years, and who has also devoted considerable attention to civic and social matters.
Mr Pembery was born on November 27, 1842, in St. Paul's. Neither the State nor the municipality had then assumed responsibility for the education of the young, and the boy missed the advantages that are offered to twentieth century children. At the age of nine he commenced to earn his own living, and at 18 he married, and in the course of time became the father of nine children. His earlier employment was connected with the goods departments of local railways, but afterwards he transferred his attention to the coal industry, became a foreman to Messrs Cossham and Wethered, and afterwards acted as a local agent for the group of collieries with which Mr Cossham's undertaking became linked. Persevering effort, combined with natural ability, stood him in good stead, his interests became more extended as life advanced, and his connection with a friendly society was an early step towards public work.
He joined the Ancient Order of Foresters on March 11, 1863, by becoming a member of Court Garibaldi. He is said to have filled every office open to him in that Order, and eventually became its senior trustee. He also served as trustee of the Widows and Orphans' Society, and of his own Court. He has again and again acted for the Foresters in a representative capacity, and has been helpful by his knowledge and suggestions in the practical work of the Order. The Foresters' High Court was held in Bristol in 1893, and Mr Pembery, as High Chief Ranger, conducted the proceedings at the Colston Hall. It is interesting to recall the fact that among the leading citizens who assembled at the opening to show a spirit of welcome to the visitors were the Mayor (Alderman W. R. Barker), the Sheriff (Mr A. Deedes), Sir Joseph Weston, M.P., Mr Lewis Fry, Mr Fuller Eberle, and Mr Mark Whitwill. The Mayor, in his speech, referred to the "sturdy character and sterling worth" of the High Chief Ranger, and Mr Lewis Fry, among others, also spoke in most eulogistic terms of Mr Pembery. During his term of office as High Chief Ranger Mr Pembery was entertained at a complimentary banquet by Court Garibaldi and presented with an illuminated address. Among the valued mementoes of his year of office were an address to him by the Oddfellows of Taunton, and one handed to him at the Bristol High Court from the officers of the Bristol District of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows. In 1913 he celebrated the jubilee of his connection with the friendly society movement, and public references were made to his long and useful service.
In politics Mr Pembery was a robust Liberal; he was identified with the Congregational denomination, and took much interest in the brotherhood movement. He had long lived at Bedminster, and in 1894 was returned at a November election as Councillor for the East Ward of that populous district. He won the esteem of his constituents and others who knew him, and had a pleasant evidence of this when a number of Bedminster residents, irrespective of party, joined in presenting him with an illuminated address, accompanied by a gold chain and locket. This was the outcome of a spontaneous desire to recognise the value of his municipal work. In 1911, on the death of Ald. Barker, he was chosen as one of the Aldemanic body, and in that capacity had a seat in the Council until the end of his life. Of late he had served on the Watch and Sanitary Committees. He had been a magistrate since 1894 but sometimes jokingly told his friends he had always been a J.P.
Mr Pembery has of late suffered from bad health. At one time he was absent from the City Council for a considerable period owing to serious illness, and he felt deeply the heartiness of the reception with which he was greeted on his re-appearance in the Chamber. A few days ago he was taken with a serious illness, from which there was little chance of his recovery. He passed away about 9.45 last evening.
26/01/1916
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Very Rev. Francis Pigou
DEATH OF THE DEAN OF BRISTOL
FEATURES IN A LONG AND INTERESTING CAREER
We regret to have to announce the death of Dr. Pigou, the Dean of Bristol. It is common knowledge that he has for a long while been in very poor health, and his condition became worse towards the close of last week. For several days prayers were offered on his behalf at the Cathedral. He passed away yesterday afternoon at 4.30 while the Cathedral service was proceeding, leaving a widow and two daughters to mourn the loss. The Dean was born in January, 1832, and was therefore 84 years of age.
SPECIAL MEMOIR
The Very Rev. Francis Pigou, D.D., Dean of Bristol, was born at Baden-Baden in January of 1832, being one of a family of seven, each of whom, with the exception of the eldest son, Major General Pigou, was born abroad, the father, a retired officer of the Queen's Bays, showing a strong liking for the Continent, where he, with his family, lived for many years.
The Dean's earliest education was received at Neuweld, on the Rhine, and on the family removing to the Hotel d'Angleterre, Spa, he was sent to the Grammar School at Ripon, making the journey from Spa to London alone at the tender age of ten years. Before setting out on the journey his parents had carefully instructed him as to his movements. On arrival in the Metropolis he was to call a cab. This he did, and his first experience with a London cabby showed that the boy was possessed of grit and tact. He asked what the fare to Paddington would be, and the cabby told him 5s, but on the journey the driver opened the trap door, and announced to young Pigou that there would be an extra charge of 2s 6d for portmanteau. The exorbitant amount startled the youthful passenger, but he kept his counsel, and did not attempt to argue the matter. On arrival at Paddington, however, he sought the cab inspector, and the result of the interview was that instead of having to pay 7s 6d, he only had to pay 3s 6d, and the cabman received a lecture for trying to impose on the boy.
From Ripon young Pigou was sent to Cheltenham College, then in its infancy, and this was the scene of many a happy adventure, for as a high spirited lad he entered thoroughly into all the fights and all the games indulged in by the College boys. Here, too, he studied hard, but strange to say he never succeeded in winning any prize: his prize was to come later in life, and when it came, in the shape of election to a life membership of the College, it was an honour the Dean very highly appreciated, as he did also his election to the presidency of the Cheltenham Society. Leaving Cheltenham he went to Edinburgh Academy, where he studied under the late Archdeacon Williams and the Rev. Dr Hannah. His next step was to the famous Divinity School at Trinity College, Dublin, where he went through a very stiff course of reading. Whilst still at Trinity his father died, and his widowed mother and sisters then left Dublin and came to reside in Pembroke Road, Clifton.
HIS FIRST CURACY
Having taken his degree in 1853, he was ordained deacon two years later. Then came his first curacy, being appointed to Stoke Talamge, a lonely Oxfordshire village, where the rector was an old man of 92. The parish church was in a shocking condition - "very small, very dirty, and untidy. Cocks and hens roosted on week-days in the pulpit. The choir consisted of a trio of violin, flageolet, and long French horn". In his desolate position the curate amused himself with his harmonium, and being a student of natural history, gave "cottage lectures" with the aid of his microscope.
At the age of 26, shortly after he had taken Priest's Orders in the parish church of Aylesbury, he was offered and accepted the chaplaincy under Bishop Spencer of the Marboenf Chapel, in Paris, and for some time he ministered among the English residents and visitors. While in Paris he became very friendly with Mr Loyson, formerly Pere Hyacinthe, of the Whitefriars, whom he considered was more an orator than a preacher. He also made the acquaintance of the Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Mary. The English community made efforts to purchase the Embassy Chapel in the Rue d'Aguesseau to present to the young chaplain, but at the last moment the scheme fell through on account of objections raised by Lord Cowley, and he found himself obliged to return to London, where he accepted the curacy of Vere Street Chapel, but shortly afterwards became curate at Kensington parish church under Archdeacon Sinclair.
Two years later Mr Pigou received his first preferment, on the death of Canon Repton, to the Incumbency of St, Philip's, Regent Street. In this year, 1860, he married his first wife, and took up his residence in Suffolk Street. It was in St. Philip's that the Dean preached a sermon on the death of the Prince Consort, a copy of which was sent by command to her late Majesty, the Queen. Amongst his congregation were the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Mary, Mr Gladstone, Lord Derby, and, in fact, most of the men and women of light and leading in London crowded to his church. It was quite the fashion to go to the proprietary chapel by Howell and James's. There was scarcely a charity in London for which he had not pleaded in St. Philip's Church. He held this position for 11 eleven years. Mrs Pigou died in 1881, and in the following year he married the daughter of Mr William Gambier of Sarcombe, Herts.
The Dean had the distinction of several times preaching before the late Queen Victoria, the first time at Windsor on the Sunday after the Thanksgiving Day for the recovery of the then Prince of Wales. He evidently pleased her Majesty, for in 1871 he was appointed her Honorary Chaplain, and she sent a message saying she would like to hear him again and hoped he would be less nervous and less hurried. In 1874 he was appointed Chaplain-in-Ordinary to the Queen, and preached twelve times before her Majesty, who was always a most attentive listener.
The Dean's next important move was to the vicarage of Doncastor in succession to Dr. Vaughan, who had accepted a Membership of the Temple. Doncastor was a difficult parish, but Dr. Vaughan had been responsible for many reforms, so that the Dean found plenty of work to do to maintain the improved moral and religious tone that prevailed on his acceptance of the vicarage. Dr Pigou became very popular in Doncastor, and when other preferments were offered to him, all sorts of inducements to stay were held out to him, including £500 a year offered by a local gentleman. Eventually, however, the more important vicarage of Halifax was offered to the Dean by the Crown, and accepting it in 1875 he remained there as vicar until 1891.
THE DEANERY OF BRISTOL
Dean Pigou stayed at Chicester for three years, and of his life there he wrote: "I sometimes thought a large Dissenting Chapel with a first-rate preacher would rouse Chicester more than anything else, for wherever Dissent is active the Church is alive!" With this feeling the Dean fell day-dreaming about the future. "Sitting over my fire one October evening, wondering as I had wondered years ago, in my first curacy, if God would call me to any higher work in His Church, my wife said to me, - 'If God were to say to you, "Ask what I shall give thee", what would you ask for?' I replied 'Send me to Bristol'. His wish was fulfilled, for shortly after this conversation, the late Lord Salisbury offered him the Deanery of Bristol, and he was duly installed at a memorable service in the presence of a large representative gathering on December 11, 1891. Of his splendid work in Bristol there is little need to say much - it is well known. He did much for the Cathedral, both as regards the fabric and making it a centre of religious life. The nave services on Sunday nights, which he introduced, are very popular, and altogether the attendances at the services are much larger than when he first came. To use his own words, he says: "In every way possible, besides statutory services, ordinations, and confirmations, our cathedrals should be utilized as ours, I may with truth say, is at Bristol. I hold Bristol Cathedral to be for all working purposes a model - indeed, almost an ideal cathedral. I doubt that any cathedral in England is more used for large gatherings". He had not long been in Bristol before citizens became aware of the great energy of their new Dean, and the fact was more noticeable from the comparative quietude of the later years of his predecessor's career. Dr Pigou made speeches in aid of a variety of causes, preached many sermons, and showed his indifference to the popular demand for a short discourse. He was keenly interested in congregational singing, and viewed with regret the tendency for this part of the service to be left largely to the choir. He was quite at home seated at a harmonium playing a hymn tune, and leading the singing with a rather powerful voice. He was a man of wide sympathies, loved a good story, and had a good sense of humour. He shared with the late Dean Stanley a reputation for writing that was a terror to those who were called upon to read it. This was particularly the case in his later years, after long illness produced its effect upon his powers. By his engaging personality, and his many interests, he won the admiration of Bristolians, and his death will be deeply regretted not only by Churchmen, but by all denominations in the city. His career has been a remarkable one for he has preached to all sorts and conditions of men, from before the Queen down to slums and thieves' kitchens; in cathedrals and theatres; to the many in a crowded church, and to workmen and navies. The Dean so loved his cathedral at Bristol that he wrote in the concluding chapter of "Phases of My Life" :- "If when I shall be under the green sod, the citizens of Bristol should care to perpetuate the memory of their present Dean, I would say Bristol Cathedral ought not to be without its peal of bells, which could now be safely put into its solid centre tower, and only rung, even though my ears should never hear their peal or chime. Meanwhile I await my time, until, after a ministerial life of perhaps unique variety and experiences, I be laid to rest with others who have gone before under the shadow of a Cathedral which has been my constant thought and care, and in the midst of a people I have loved and humbly sought, in the Masters's name and for His sake, to serve".
10/01/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred Hatton
DEATH OF MR ALFRED HATTON
The death will be learned with regret of Mr Alfred Hatton, who passed away yesterday at 12, Union Street. Mr Hatton was well known in the city and the neighbourhood, and his business in Union Street was a very old established one. For many years he had carried on a large catering business, and big contracts, not only in Bristol, but at Weston-super-Mare and other neighbouring towns, had been placed in his hands. The deceased gentleman was connected with the Masonic body, and was a Past Master of the Royal Clarence Lodge in the Province of Bristol. Mr Hatton, who was 67 years of age, was twice married, his widow being a sister of the late Mr William Lyons.
08/01/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Richard Davey
DEATH OF MR RICHARD DAVEY
DIRECTOR OF THE IMPERIAL TOBACCO COMPANY
Mr Richard Davey, of Holyrood, Falmouth, and formerly of Bristol, passed away yesterday at Falmouth, at the age of 68. He was a member of the firm of Messrs Franklyn, Morgan, and Davey, tobacco manufacturers of this city, and on its amalgamation with the Imperial Tobacco Company, he became one of its directors. He was a younger brother of the late Mr Thomas Davey, who resided in the Leigh Woods, and was an uncle of Mr T. Ruding Davey, who is also a director of the Imperial Tobacco Company. The deceased gentleman married Miss Wathen, sister of Dr Wathen, of Clifton, but they had no children. Deceased was of a somewhat retiring disposition, never taking any active part in civic affairs, and in the last few years he has not been actively connected with the business. He greatly enjoyed yachting, his yacht being named Einna.
06/02/1912
February 6th, 1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Theodore Fry
DEATH OF SIR THEODORE FRY
We regret to announce the sudden death of Sir Theodore Fry, Bart, at the age of 76. The news was received at Lincoln yesterday, and caused widespread regret. Sir Theodore was a director of Messrs Ruston, Proctor, and Co., and was Lord of the Manor of Cleasby, Yorks. He was Radical member of Parliament for Darlington from 1880 to 1895.
Sir Theodore Fry was the second son of the late Mr Francis Fry, of Tower House, Cotham, Bristol, and was a brother to Mr F. J. Fry, of Cricket St. Thomas, Chard. Sir Theodore, who was 76 years of age, left Bristol forty years ago, but prior to his departure he had resided at Woodburn, Cotham Park. He left Bristol for Darlington, for which place he was M.P. from 1880-95, and prior to going he was partner in the firm of Albert and Theodore Fry, now the Bristol Wagon Works. Sir Theodore was twice married, his first wife, who died in 1897, being daughter and co-heiress of Mr John Pease, East Mount, Darlington, and Cleveland Lodge, Great Ayrton, Yorkshire. From this marriage there were four sons and four daughters, and from a subsequent one with Florence, the eldest daughter of Mr William Bates, of Oakdene, Birkenhead, there was one daughter. He was D. L., a J.P., an F.S.A., and a life member of the University College, London.
08/07/1912
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr C. Bruce Cole
THE LATE MR C. BRUCE COLE
REQUESTS TO EMPLOYEES
LEGACIES TO CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS
We have been informed that provisional probate has now been granted in respect of the estate of the late Mr C. Bruce Cole, of "Claremont", Westbury-on-Trym, the chairman of directors of Messrs H. J. Packer and Co., Ltd. For the purpose of provisional probate his estate was sworn at £259,912 18s 9d, but this is subject to adjustment.
27/02/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George James Caple
DEATH OF A FORMER RESIDENT OF CLEVEDON
Information has reached Clevedon of the death, in Australia, of Mr George James Caple, the founder and former proprietor of 'The Clevedon Mercury', which he conducted for 22 years - 1863 to 1885 -and afterwards travelled America before finally settling in the Antipodes. In his earlier days he was well known in Bristol and throughout the district as a writer of some distinction. In 1882 he was elected a member of the Local Board, on which he served for three years, and during his tenure of office brought forward many schemes for the advancement and improvement of Clevedon. In other ways he also took part in the public life of the town, including the regatta, flower show, town band, etc. He was also a Freemason, having been initiated a member of the Coleridge Lodge soon after its formation in 1878. He was 72 years of age, and leaves a widow and grown-up family of four sons and three daughters.
29/03/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr A. J. Blake
FUNERAL OF MR A. J. BLAKE
The funeral of the late Mr A. J. Blake, of 4 Grove Park, Redland, managing director of Willway's Dye, Cleaning, and Laundry Company, Limited, took place yesterday afternoon, at Canford Cemetery, amid many manifestations of sorrow. The deceased was well known and highly esteemed in business circles, and he was also a much respected member of the Masonic body, a member of the Beaufort Lodge (103), and one of the founders and S.W. of the St. Augustine Lodge (3,108).
03/05/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ernest Sampson
We regret to announce the death of Mr Ernest Sampson, sub-manager of Stuckey's Bank, Corn Street. The deceased gentleman, who was well known and highly respected in local commercial circles, had been ill only a week, but pneumonia followed an attack of influenza, and he died yesterday at his residence, 26, Wellington Park, Redland. Mr Sampson, who was 54 years of age, was a native of Manchester, but he had been associated with this city from boyhood, and had been connected with the bank for 49 years, for nearly 20 years as sub-manager. He was a member of the Commercial Rooms and of the Constitutional Club. He was also closely connected with Church work in the city, being a member of the St. Nicholas Vestry, and churchwarden at St. John's, Redland. Mr Sampson's father was at one time Postmaster of Bristol. One of his brothers, the Rev. Edward F. Sampson, has been censer of Christ Church, Oxford, and author of a number of theological works. Mr Walter Sampson, another brother, is Assistant Secretary at the office of the Bristol Charity Trustees. The deceased leaves a widow and five children - two sons, one of whom is in Canada, and three daughters.
13/05/1912
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Edward Thomas Collins
The will and two codicils of the late Mr Edward Thomas Collins, of Loddiswell, Redland, and 28, Baldwin Street, Bristol, senior partner in the firm of Edward Thomas Collins and Son, chartered accountants of Bristol, has been proved by his son, Mr Arthur Collins, of 28 Baldwin Street, Bristol, chartered accountant, and Charles Edward Barry, of 50, Broad Street, Bristol, solicitor, the executors, the net amount of the estate being sworn at £42,504 8s 11d.
23/05/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Elkanah Wookey
LATE MR W. E. WOOKEY
FUNERAL AT GREENBANK YESTERDAY
The funeral of the late Mr William Elkanah Wookey, who died at the Full Moon Hotel, Fishponds, on Sunday, at which house he was licensee, took place at Greenbank cemetery yesterday afternoon. Deceased gentleman was well known in the city, and was greatly respected by a wide circle of friends. For many years he had been a prominent member of the St. Andrew Lodge, Avonmouth, of the Freemasons, in which he had held high official positions, being at the time of his decease P.P.G.C. of the Gloucestershire Lodge, P.M. of St. Andrew Lodge, and P.M. of the Lygrove Lodge, M.M.M. Berkeley. He was formerly licensee of the Punch Bowl public house, Old Market Street, for several years, leaving there for Fishponds.
18/07/1912
Western Daily Press
Will
Canon Charles Hill Wallace
Canon Charles Hill Wallace of 3, Gloucester Row, Clifton, Bristol, Honorary Canon of Bristol Cathedral, son of the late Mr Charles Hill Wallace, barrister-at-law, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, whose death took place on the 18th of May, left estate totalling to £8,040 14s 11d.
31/08/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis James Warren
FUNERAL OF MR WARREN
The funeral took place yesterday of Mr Francis James Warren, of 256, Coronation Road, and formerly York Crescent Road, Clifton, who was for thirty years in the engineers' department of the Bristol Docks Office, and died on Monday, at the age of 57 years.
12/09/1912
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William John Mansfield
REQUESTS BY MR W. J. MANSFIELD
Mr William John Mansfield, of Savernake, 187, Redland Road, Bristol, whose death occurred on the 15th July last, has left property of the gross value of £38,859 16s 8d.
28/09/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Joseph Higgins
DEATH OF MR JOSEPH HIGGINS
We much regret to announce the death of Mr Joseph Higgins, senior partner (also the founder) in the firm of Higgins and Sons, Ltd., tailors, Park Street. Early in July, he spent a brief holiday in North Devon, and on returning home (19, Woodstock Road, Redland), he appeared to have benefited by the change; but a few days later he contracted a chill, and the illness began which ended fatally yesterday afternoon. During the whole period of his residence in Bristol Mr Higgins, who was a staunch Wesleyan Methodist, was a worshipper at the Cotham Chapel, Redland Road. He was a generous helper of many good causes, and his loss will be keenly felt far beyond his own family and church circles.At an important committee meeting held yesterday afternoon - about an hour after the death was known - the Rev. T. Ferrier Hulme, M.A., who presided, referred to the sad event and to the many services which Mr Higgins had rendered to Methodism in Bristol and elsewhere, and suggested that the secretary be asked to write to Mr Higgins and the members of the family, expressing sympathy with them in their bereavement. This was heartily approved.
10/12/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Langstaff Dickinson
DEATH OF MR J. L. DICKINSON
A profound sensation was caused in Weston-super-Mare last night when it became known that Mr John Langstaff Dickinson, the well known solicitor, had died, quite unexpectedly, at his residence in Eastfield Park. For about a week past Mr Dickinson had been suffering from an attack of influenza, but not of an acute type. Yesterday morning his condition was regarded as quite satisfactory, and he appeared to be well on the way to convalescence. Shortly before seven o'clock last night, however, on awaking from a nap, he suddenly collapsed. The doctor was hastily sent for, but despite all that could be done, death occurred shortly from heart failure.
Mr Dickinson was well known and highly respected in the legal profession both in Bristol and Weston. Some years ago in Bristol he was in partnership with the late Mr T. D. Sibly, and later he was connected with the firm of Wansbrough, Dickinson, Robinson and Taylor. Mr Dickinson had enjoyed an extensive legal practice at Weston-super-Mare, whilst keeping up his connection with Bristol. He was 57 years of age, and was exceedingly popular on account of his genial and kindly disposition.
17/01/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr J. B. C. Burroughs
SUDDEN DEATH OF MR J. B. C. BURROWS
It is with regret we announce the death of Mr J. B. C. Burrows, which occurred suddenly during Monday night, at Westbury-on-Trym, where the deceased gentleman had resided for many years. He was a manager of the local schools, in which he took a deep personal interest. At the recent prize distribution Mr Burroughs referred with satisfaction to his long association with the schools and all connected with them, and at the close of the function, he took the Lord Bishop of the Diocese on a visit of inspection to the buildings, the improvement in which he had laboured very hard to bring about. Periodically, he visited the schools and spoke words of encouragement to teachers and scholars. In a wider field, he showed his sympathy with the cause of national education as secretary of the Bristol Diocesan Association of Voluntary Schools, and he was also a member of the Educational Settlement Committee, which was organised in connection with the Primate's Educational Bill. As honorary treasurer of the Westbury Charity Trustees, he did much to encourage thrift, and he was also anxious to see that, where possible, the grants should be applied to the provision of scholarships for promising students. In this connection, too, he represented Westbury-on-Trym on the Board of Management of the Edmonds and Coles Scholarship Fund. He was a keen and well-informed archaeologist, and, together with the late Mr Alfred Shipley, did much to secure the preservation of the historic tower of Westbury College. He was formerly a vice-president of, and took much interest in, the Westbury Parish Institute, the present constitution of which he assisted the vicar of Westbury (the Rev. Dr H. J. Wilkins) to draw up. Quite recently he had been appointed chairman of the committee which has been appointed to manage the Lads' Clubroom. He was a very regular attendant at the parish church, at which he was a worshipper, and communicant as recently as last Sunday. In politics, Mr Burroughs was a staunch Unionist, and in former years could be seen on the platform at the public meetings in connection with the local Conservative organisation. He always took a very active part in everything connected with the parochial life of Westbury-on-Trym, and was a member of its Parish Council until the village became incorporated with the city of Bristol. Mr Burroughs was admitted a solicitor in 1867, and practised in this city up to quite recently.
21/01/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Kaye Butterworth
DEATH OF MRS KAYE BUTTERWORTH
We regret to announce the death, which took place yesterday morning, of Mrs Julia Butterworth, a lady who was well known locally, as she was a daughter of the late Dr. George Wigan, and sister of Dr. Charles A. Wigan, of Deepdene, Beach Road, Portishead. In 1884 she married Mr Alexander Kaye Butterworth LL.B., of 19, Cheyne Gardens, Chelsea, S.W., the present general manager of the North-Eastern Railway, who at the time of the marriage was in the solicitor's department of the Great Western Railway. The funeral will probably take place on Tuesday at Portishead.
18/02/1911
Western Daily Press
Will
Lord Winterstoke (Sir William Henry Wills)
The will with five codicils of the late Lord Winterstoke, of Blagdon, who died on the 29th January last, has been carried in for probate at the Principle Registry by the executors, his two cousins, Messrs George Alfred Wills and Frank William Wills, and Messrs William John Mann and William Rennie, the estate being provisionally sworn at £1,000,000, so far as at present can be ascertained. Lord Winterstoke entails his Coombe Lodge estate at Blagdon and all his other Somerset estates on his cousin, Mr George Alfred Wills, and devises East Court, St. Lawrence-on-Sea, to Miss Stancomb Wills for life, and then to Mr G. A. Wills as part of the entail. His Lordship's London residence, 25, Hyde Park Gardens, and his yacht Sabrina, he similarly bequeaths to Miss Wills for life. After specifically bequeathing his furniture and effects, and giving various annuities and legacies to relatives, friends, dependants, and servants, his lordship leaves his residuary estate on trust, the income of one half to be paid to Miss Stancomb Wills for life, and of the other half to Mrs Richardson for life (his lordship's adopted daughters); and subject thereto his residuary estate is divided - as to two fourth parts between Messrs Arthur John Grahame Stancomb and Frederick William Stancomb and their sister Mrs Burton; as to another fourth part to Mr Frank William Wills and as to the remaining fourth part to Messrs. Henry William Gunn and Ernest Mayo Gunn equally.
The will expresses a wish that Messrs Curtis, Jenkins, and Co., should act as the accountants, and Messrs T. T. Curwen and Sons, of London, as the stockbrokers to the executors.
One of the codicils confirms a donation of £25,000 to Bristol University, in addition to a previous gift of £10,000, both of which sums were paid in his lordship's lifetime; and another codicil is of interest which directs his executors to discharge any claim for estate duty in respect of gifts made within three years of his lordship's death, at the cost of his personal estate, rather than allow the recipients to be called upon to pay such duty.
21/07/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Solomon Hare
DEATH OF MR SOLOMON HARE
The death is announced of Mr Solomon Hare, who was for many years known in connection with the auditing of local commercial undertakings. He was also one of the city of Bristol auditors. He expired yesterday at his residence, 35, Salisbury Road, Redland. Mr Hare was born in Bristol in 1833, and received his education from private sources. He joined the late Mr W. Bartram, accountant of the city, in 1860, and in 1869 Mr Hare succeeded to the business, which was carried on under the style of Hare, Barnard, and Co. One movement in which he took a prominent part was that known as the Hotwells poll-tax agitation, when it was sought to impose a toll on those who embarked by the steamers from the pontoon. He became joint secretary with Mr Levy Langfield, and largely through their exertions the poll-tax was abolished. Their efforts were duly recognised, both gentleman being presented with a testimonial. Mr Hare was up to the time of his death auditor to the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company, Limited, and the London United Tramways Company, Limited. He acted in a like capacity for the City of Gloucester Tramways Company until the municipal authorities of that city purchased the undertaking from the proprietors. When the Bristol tobacconists formed an association, with the late Mr Knight as chairman, they held their meetings at the office of Mr Hare, in Mary-le-Port Street, and he acted as their secretary. Other local concerns with which he was associated as auditor were John Bartlett and Son, Limited, Bond's Brewery Company, Limited, and the Western Fuel Company, Limited. He was auditor of undertakings in different parts of the country. He was elected Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants since 1885, and was elected one of the auditors for the city of Bristol in 1898. Mr Hare was of a genial disposition, and possessed a fund of anecdote which rendered him an agreeable companion.
02/10/1911
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Overton Wills
WILL OF THE LATE MR H. O. WILLS
MUNIFICENT BEQUESTS
The will, dated 19th November 1908, together with two codicils of the late Mr Henry Overton Wills, of Kelston Knoll, near Bath, who died on the 4th September last, has been carried in probate for the executors, his four surviving sons, Messrs George Alfred Wills, Henry Herbert Wills, Walter Melville Wills, and Arthur Stanley Wills, the estate being provisionally sworn at £2,000,000. Mr Wills makes certain specific bequests to his sons of shares in the Imperial Tobacco Company, and after establishing trusts for the benefit of two of his daughters-in-law and giving numerous legacies to grandchildren, relatives, friends, dependants and servants, and to charitable objects, Mr Wills leaves his residuary estate equally between his four sons absolutely.
The will confirms the gift to the University of Bristol of £100,000 (already paid) if it obtained its charter (as was the case) within the period of two years from the date of Mr Will's promise; and amongst the charities benefited are the following:-
National Benevolent Society £5,000
Bristol Church Extension £5,000
Royal Hospital for Incurables (Putney) £3,000
British Home and Hospital for Incurables, Streatham £2,000
Bristol General Hospital £3,000
Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Women £2,000
Bristol Young Men's Christian Association £1,000
Her Majesty the late Queen's Nurses £1,000
London Missionary Society £1,000
Church Missionary Society £1,000
British and Foreign Bible Society £500
Mr and Mrs Harold Wills for Trevandrum Mission Work £500
National Hospital for Paralysed and Epileptic £500
Bristol Benevolent Institution £500
Bristol District Nurses' Society £500
Mrs Bramwell Booth for Rescue and Social Work £500
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children £250
Broad Plain Mission £500
Orphan Working School, Haverstock Hill £250
Homes for Little Boys, Farningham and Swanley £250
Western-super-Mare Children's Convalescent Home £250
Shaftesbury Coffee House, Bristol £250
Church of England Waifs and Strays £250
Governesses' Benevolent Institution £250
Western Dispensary, Bath £200
Combe Down Convalescent Home £200
Royal United Hospital, Bath £500
Distressed Gentlefolks' Aid Association £500
Clergy Orphan Corporation £250
29/06/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr F. L. Clark
DEATH OF MR F. L. CLARK
OFFICIAL RECEIVER IN BANKRUPTCY
We very much regret to announce the death of Mr F. L. Clark, the official receiver in bankruptcy for the district comprising Bristol, Bath, Frome, Wells, and Bridgwater, the sad event occurring shortly before four o'clock yesterday afternoon at his residence in Downleaze, Durdham Down. Mr Clark, who had been in poor health for some little time past, latterly developed double pneumonia, but after an operation which he underwent appeared to be making satisfactory progress. However, a relapse set in, and he passed peacefully away as stated yesterday afternoon. At the time of the passing of the Act of 1883 Mr Clark was transferred from the Finance Department of the Board of Trade to the Commercial Department under the late Sir Robert Giffen to assist the then Inspector-General, Mr John Smith, C.B., in organising the machinery under that Act. Mr Clark acted as a temporary official receiver at Hull, and was appointed official receiver for Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and to the Chancery Court of the county palatine of Durham on January 1st, 1891, being promoted to be Chief Bankruptcy Clerk to the Board of Trade in London on January 1st, 1894. After seven years in that capacity he was, on the retirement of the late Mr E. G. Clarke - who was the first official receiver appointed for the Bristol district - appointed to fill the vacancy which, in addition to the receivership in bankruptcy, also included the companies' liquidation. At first the district only comprised Bristol, Bath, Frome, and Wells, but Bridgewater was added on 1st July, 1904. Mr Clark was a member of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. In carrying out his duties Mr Clark had the valued assistance of Mr F. W. Darley as assistant official receiver, and of Mr J. P. Emett as inspector. Mr Clark was in the prime of his life, being 54 years of age,and outside his official duties his genial and courteous disposition had gained him a wide circle of friends, amongst whom his death will be deeply mourned.
19/05/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Commander George Cawley, R.N.R.
THE LATE COMMANDER CAWLEY, R.N.R.
FUNERAL AT HENBURY
In the presence of a numerous company of mourners, the mortal remains of the late Commander G. Cawley, R.D., R.N.R., were yesterday afternoon laid to rest at Henbury. Deceased, who was greatly esteemed for his geniality and his service in connection with the United Kingdom Pilots' Association, of which he was president for some years, as well as in other directions, passed away, after a long illness, at his residence at Cribbs Causeway, on Saturday morning. In addition to his active interest on behalf of pilots, Commander Cawley was at one time a member of the City Council, where he represented the Clifton Ward, and was a member of the Docks and Pilotage Committee. It will be remembered that in the list of birthday honours issued in December, the name of Commander Cawley appeared in the first list of officers of the Royal Navy Reserve upon whom the recently instituted decoration for officers of the Reserve had been conferred.
23/05/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Humphreys
DEATH OF MR GEORGE HUMPHREYS
We regret to announce the death of Mr George Humphreys, founder of the firm of George Humphreys and Son, builders and contractors, of Woodborough Street, Stapleton Road. Deceased had been in ill-health for some time and passed away yesterday morning at his residence, Carnarvon Road, Redland. Mr Humphreys was a well-known and highly-respected citizen, and his firm was responsible for many important contracts in Bristol and the neighbourhood. He was a valued member of the Bristol Master Builders' Association for 40 years, and ever took the warmest interest in promoting its welfare. He filled the presidential chair on two occasions, and was honorary treasurer of the association for twenty years. At the recent annual banquet he was presented with a silver tray as a mark of appreciation of his services in that capacity. Mr Humphreys also took a great interest in the work of the National Federation of Master Builders, and was a regular attendant at its annual meetings. For the last twelve years he was one of four members to attend those gatherings, his colleagues having been Mr A. Krauss - whose death occurred on Saturday - ,Mr E. I. Neale, and Mr G. Wilkins. The deceased was as well known and as highly respected in the neighbouring counties as in Bristol.
09/09/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edward A. Harvey
DEATH OF MR E. A. HARVEY
The announcement yesterday of the death of Mr Edward A. Harvey, the head of the well-known firm of Messrs John Harvey and Son, wine and spirit merchants, of this city, occasioned much regret in commercial and musical circles. For some considerable time past Mr Harvey had experienced indifferent health, and he had been absent on this account from business since July last. Recently his position gradually became worse, and his death took place early yesterday morning at his residence, Victoria Square, Clifton, at the age of 71 years.
Mr Harvey at one time took a prominent part in the public affairs of this city. In 1873 he was elected a representative of the St. Augustine's Ward on the City Council, and he retained this seat for a period of 19 years. During this time his return was rarely seriously opposed. The parish church of St. Augustine's found in him a warm and generous friend, and for several years he occupied the position of churchwarden. With musical events in this city he was always greatly interested, and his association with the Bristol Madrigal Society extended over a long period, first serving as treasurer and afterwards as president. For upwards of 50 years he attended the ladies' nights and practices, and when the jubilee of the society was celebrated in 1887, he was presented at the Mansion House with five silver candlesticks and four-light candelabra, and also with Emil Naumann's "History of Music" in appreciation of his services.
Mr Harvey was on the committee of the Bristol Musical Festival, and many years ago a pleasing little episode happened in which Mr Harvey figured. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were visiting the Colston Hall during the Festival, and outside on the pavement were pools of water. Mr Harvey gallantly took off his coat, which he placed on the ground for the Royal visitors to walk upon. The deceased gentleman was president of the Grateful Society in 1890, and was instrumental in collecting £960.
02/02/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred Richard Bailey
FUNERAL OF MR A. R. BAILEY, OF FROME
The funeral of the late Mr Alfred Richard Bailey, of North Hill, Frome, took place at the church of St. John Baptist, yesterday afternoon. Mr Bailey, who was one of the most widely known business men in the West of England, was burned to death while sitting in his study on Thursday night last. On the same day he had attended Bristol Corn Market. As a judge of barley Mr Bailey scarcely had a rival. He had maltings at Frome (one of the largest in the West of England), Bristol, Warminster, and Southampton, also maize works at Portishead. He was a director of numerous companies, both at Frome and in other places. He was a Past Master of the local lodge of Freemasons, and he had twice filled the office of president of the Frome District Agricultural Society.
04/03/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Pierrepont Harris
DEATH OF MR PIERREPONT HARRIS
A PROMINENT FREEMASON
We regret to announce the death of Mr Gilbert Woodruff Pierrepont Harris, of Boscawen, Brislington, which took place yesterday morning at a nursing home in Clifton, to which he had been removed for medical treatment. The deceased was formerly in business as a Manchester warehouseman in Bridge Street, under the style of Harris Brothers, and his father and uncles were connected with the city. The business was eventually absorbed in that of Messrs Bolt Brothers, Limited, of Victoria Street. By Mr Harris's death Freemasonry has sustained a severe loss, and the loss is not confined to the Province of Bristol, for the deceased had for many years been in close touch with Grand Lodge. He was a Past Master of the Sussex Lodge, No. 187, Past Master and one of the founders of the Powell Lodge, No. 2,257, and an honorary member of the Whitsun, No. 2,943, St. Augustine, No. 3,108, and St. Stephen, No. 3,145 Lodges, with the consecration of each of which he was officially connected. He was also a Past Master of the Vale of Brislington Lodge, No. 1,296, Province of Somerset, in which he took a deep interest.
For upwards of a quarter of a century he held the office of Provincial Grand Secretary, during the Provincial Grand Mastership of the late Bro. W. A. F. Powell, and in 1900 he was given the past rank of the Past Grand Assistant Director of Ceremonies, England. On the death of Provincial Grand Master Powell, the late Lieut-Col. J. R. Bramble became the head of the Province, and appointed Wor. Bro. Harris as Deputy Provincial Grand Master, and Wor. Bro. J. C. Gilmore as Provincial Grand Secretary. On Col. Bramble's death the deceased was Deputy Grand Master in charge of the Province until the installation as Provincial Grand Master in April of last year of Lieut-Col. G. A. Gibbs, who appointed Wor. Bro. Harris as his deputy. The deceased also held high rank in Mark and Arch Masonry. In 1906, when the late Colonel Bramble succeeded to the office of Provincial Grand Master of Mark of Masons he appointed Bro. Harris as his deputy, and on Col Bramble's death he became Deputy Grand Master in charge. In 1908 he was installed as Provincial Grand Scribe E. In the Temple he passed through every degree, and was what is known in the craft as a 32 degree brother. Much might also be said of the excellent work done by the deceased in connection with the various Masonic charities in Bristol and London. On the occasion of his relinquishing the secretarial duties of the Bristol Province he received a tangible token of the goodwill and regard of the brethren. Outside Masonry, Mr Pierrepont Harris was a man held in high esteem on account of his excellent qualities, his genial manner, and kindly disposition. The deceased, who was in his 65th year, leaves two sons, his wife having predeceased him about two years ago.
20/01/1913
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James W. Arrowsmith
DEATH OF WELL-KNOWN PUBLISHER
We regret to have to announce the death of Mr James W. Arrowsmith, one of Bristol's best known and most respected citizens. Mr Arrowsmith, although not a native of Bristol, had been resident here since his boyhood, and had become identified with many of its activities. His business faculty and readiness to assist in the initiation of new ventures again and again led to his co-operation being secured in connection with local movements. His interests were varied, and in many spheres of local activity he will be sadly missed. For some time his health has been unsatisfactory, and rather more than a week ago his illness led to serious apprehensions. A stroke followed, and his condition was deemed to be so serious that the impending anniversary dinner of the University Colston Society was postponed. His death occurred last evening about half-past five, at his residence, Upper Belgrave Road.
THE STORY OF "CALLED BACK"
Mr Arrowsmith was born at Worcester in 1839 - soon after the commencement of the Victorian era - and came to Bristol with his father 14 years later. There was then carried on in this city a printing business under the title of Evans and Abbot, and with this concern Mr Arrowsmith, senior, became connected, the name afterwards becoming Evans and Arrowsmith. Although Mr J. W. Arrowsmith's early life was mapped out with the idea of his being a builder, he not unnaturally before long found a place for his energy in his father's business, of which he speedily took the management, and in due time became proprietor. As a publisher, Mr J. W. Arrowsmith was brought into sudden prominence in the book world by the wonderful success of "Hugh Conway's" novel "Called Back". The story has been told more than once, but it just now has a special interest. Mr Arrowsmith had, as an experiment, issued a Bristol Annual. The first number bore the title, "Thirteen at Dinner", and tradition represents it as the outcome of a special gathering at which the festive party each agreed to make some contribution to the venture. The result, from a financial point of view, could not be regarded as encouraging, and in the second attempt, instead of a series of short narratives, a lady novelist supplied a story for the Annual. When the arrangements for the third of the series were in sight, Mr F. J. Fargus, a friend of Mr Arrowsmith's, offered to write it. It has been often said that the postscript of a lady's letter is usually the most important part, and it is noteworthy that this offer was apparently the result of an after-thought when Mr Fargus was communicating with the publisher on another matter. It read as follows:-
"P.S. - If you have not settled your Annual for next year, I will write it for the same you paid - and give you whole copyright."
The offer was accepted and the story written. Then came the selection of a title, and on this Mr Arrowsmith was consulted. Fargus quickly made a variety of suggestions, "Clouds", "Light from Darkness", "From Darkness to Light", "Scattered Clouds", "A Method in his Madness", and "Dawn - at last", being amongst them. None of them found favour, and other proposals were not regarded as particularly happy until "Called Back", was proposed, and this was adopted. It was, however, scarcely a case of the title making the book famous by its powerful appeal to public curiosity and interest. The immediate outcome did not promise a phenomenal success, and the change has been directly attributed to a favourable reference in a society paper, 'Truth'. A curious feature is that the notice which accomplished so much was apparently not written in the ordinary way of a review of a book sent by the publisher to the editor, but was the result of an interest awakened in the mind of some one connected with the periodical by a lucky accident.
The account of the incident that appeared in 'Truth' will bear repetition. "Who Arrowsmith is and who Hugh Conway is I do not know, nor had I heard of the Christmas Annual of the former, or of the latter as a writer of fiction, but a week or two ago a friend of mine said to me, 'Buy Arrowsmith's Christmas Annual if you want to read one of the best that have appeared for many a year'. A few days ago I happened to be at Waterloo station waiting for a train. I remembered the advice and asked the clerk at the bookstall for the Annual. He handed it to me and remarked, 'They say the story is very good, but this is only the third copy I have sold'. It was so foggy that I could not read it in the train, as I had intended, so I put the book in my pocket. About two that night it occurred to me that it was nearing the hour when decent, quiet people go to bed. I saw the Annual staring me in the face, and took it up. Well, not until 4.30 did I get to bed. By that time I had finished the story. Had I not, I should have gone on reading. I agree with my friend - nay, I go further than him and say that Wilkie Collins never penned a more enthralling story ... I can only hope that Mr Hugh Conway will soon be good enough to write another story - a better one of its kind than 'Called Back', however, neither he nor any one else can write. I only ask that it should be one half as good."
The novel had been published as the Christmas Annual of the Bristol Library Series in 1883, and after this introduction to the public notice it sold like wildfire. About 400,000 copies were quickly disposed of, and it was translated into French, Italian, Dutch, and German languages. Mr Joseph Shaylor, in 1912, became the author of a volume called "The Fascination of Books", and it dealt largely with incidents connected with publishing. He mentioned "Called Back" as one of two illustrations in which a Press notice has played an important part in the fortunes of books, the other being "The Fight in Dame Europe's School". This was a brochure written during the Franco-German war, and after being declined by many European publishers, was finally issued "in the country". A very small edition was thought sufficient, but a review in the "Times" sent up the demand until 400,000 copies were disposed of. The name of Mr Arrowsmith as well as that of "Hugh Conway" (the 'nom de plume' adopted by Mr Fargus), became famous as the result of their successful co-operation, and it should be noted that the terms of the postscript already quoted did not prevent the publisher adding to the author's remuneration by a royalty on each book sold. Thus in the next three years "Hugh Conway", instead of the £80 agreed upon, received £2,450. The return would haver been larger to both publisher and author but for the fact that the book was pirated in the United States, international copyright law being then insufficient to prevent this abuse.
SUCCESS FOLLOWS SUCCESS
With the lesson of "Called Back" before their eyes many writers who under an older order of things would have naturally looked to London publishers turned Bristol-wards, and found in Mr Arrowsmith both a good literary judge and an excellent man of business. So work grew - and grew out of all likeness to its former proportions, and success followed success. Other well-known books published by Mr Arrowsmith have had large circulation. Mr Anthony Hope's "Prisoner of Zenda" reached 250,000, and its sequel, "Rupert of Henteau" also proved popular, well over 100,000 copies being issued. These were more expensive volumes than "Called Back", which was among the pioneers of sixpenny books enjoying great popularity. Another story published by Mr Arrowsmith which had a great run was "Three Men in a Boat". A quarter of a million have been printed, and the demand is not at an end. Among other works published or printed by Mr Arrowsmith are George Grossmith's "Society Clown", "The Wizard", by Mr Rider Haggard; "Ziska" by Miss Marie Corelli; "Katharine Regina" by Sir Walter Besant; and Mr Edwin Dingle's "Explorations in China". He has also been responsible for works by Mr Grant Allen, Mr F. A. Anstey, Mr Wilkie Collins, Mr B. L. Fargoon, Mr Harry Furness, Mr Andrew Lang, "Max O' Rell", Mr Gordon Stables, Mr Arthur Roberts, and Mr John Strange Winter.
Dr W. G. Grace's "Cricket" from some points of view may be regarded as one of the Bristol books that have come from Mr Arrowsmith's press. "Arrowsmith's Dictionary of Bristol" was found so useful in its earlier form that an enlarged and improved edition was issued, the information, collected from a variety of sources, being revised by Mr John Latimer up to a certain stage in the preparation of that work. Mr Latimer's Annals were published elsewhere, but the supplement bringing up the first volume to the close of the nineteenth century was printed at Quay Street, and Mr Arrowsmith took the responsibility of producing "Sixteenth Century Bristol", material for which had been prepared by Mr Latimer for newspaper use and revised by that painstaking historian. "A Short History of the Port of Bristol" was written by Mr Charles Wells at Mr Arrowsmith's request, and he was also the publisher of Mr Stanley Hutton's book, "Bristol and its Famous Associations". "The History of the Bristol Grammar School", the life of Dr White (founder of Temple Hospital), and the History of the Red Maids' School, all by Mr W. A. Sampson, and "A Geological Excursion Handbook for the Bristol District" by Prof S. H. Reynolds, were printed by the firm. The list of books and booklets which bore the impress of the firm is extremely large. Besides those mentioned may be named "Bristol, Past and Present", by Taylor and Nicholls; "Pleasant Trips Out of Bristol", by Mr Nicholls; the publications included in the Arrow series; a number of guides to Bristol; and the first railway time-table in this city to adopt the A.B.C. arrangement. The firm responsible for this amount of work has in recent years been formed into a limited company, but the old traditions were not forgotten, and the jubilee of the concern was celebrated in January, 1912.
SHOOTING AND AMATEUR SPORT
The claims of a growing business did not absorb the whole of Mr Arrowsmith's energies. He never entered the City Council, took no part in Poor Law Administration, and never occupied high office in the Chamber of Commerce - avenues by which many men enter the public service; yet he was connected with a surprising variety of movements in which the community was interested and had been a justice of the peace since 1886. He served for 21 years in the Bristol Rifle Corps, of which he was one of the early members, and afterwards joined the Volunteer Engineers. In both battalions he was famous as a marksman. In 1868, 1870, and 1873, his skill with the rifle won him a place among the 80 who were privileged to enter for the final stage for the Queen's Prize. That coverted prize itself never fell to his lot. In 1873 he tied with three others for the Hopton Challenge Cup, and the prize was divided. He was in the International Twenty in 1883, and again in 1885, and he had the honour of shooting in the English Right for the Eluko Challenge Shield. In the Engineers, he became Quartermaster, and showed a continuance of his skill as a shot. In 1883 he secured the Curtis and Harvey Prize, and in 1888 brought back the Albert Jewel - one of the leading awards at the Wimbledon meeting. His score on that occasion was the best on record. He was hon. secretary of the Bristol Long Range Club, and of the Bristol Martini Shooting Club.
Cricket interested him greatly. His firm has been represented for a long series of years at Gloucestershire county matches in Bristol, and has printed the score cards, while at the end of the season it has issued the official scores. A writer, describing his interest in sport mentioned the Cricket Challenge Cup, of which Mr Arrowsmith was the donor upon evidence of this. He was one of the small group of men whose action in 1888 secured Bristol the County Ground at Ashley Down. He was chairman of the company, and of the original members of the directorate he and Mr Harry Beloe were the only survivors. He served on the Gloucestershire Cricket Club Committee, and always showed a keen interest in the fortunes of the county. Bowling appealed to him also. He founded and was President of the Bristol Arrow Bowling Club, the senior organization of the kind in the city, and had served in a similar capacity in the Western Counties Bowling League. Rugby football appealed to him, and he was a supporter of the Bristol Rugby Club. In recent years he has played golf. Indeed, it may be said that amateur sport in most forms appealed to him, and he was one of the foremost Bristolians to initiate or take part in arranging for the entertainment of visiting teams of athletes from our Overseas Dominions.
POLITICS; THE UNIVERSITY; AND OTHER ACTIVITIES
Mr Arrowsmith was one of the founders of the Bristol Liberal Club, which took over the premises in Corn Street, formerly used as an Athenaeum. He was chairman of the club for many years, and on his resigning that responsible position was chosen as President. Evidence of the esteem of the club members for him is seen in the institution, in the portrait of Mr Arrowsmith presented to him on their behalf by the Right Hon. Arnold Morley, who at the time was Postmaster-General and President of the club. The portrait occupies a place on the club walls. He was a member of the Anchor Colston Society, and presided at the dinner in 1893, and the collection under his auspices (£1,202) exceeded the collections obtained in many years before and after that anniversary.
He was a also a supporter of the movement for creating a University for Bristol. It had occurred to more than one Bristolian that the educational side of Edward Colston's work was not recognised to anything like the same extent as his philanthropy. In the course of a conservation Mr Walter Reid asked Mr Arrowsmith what he thought of the formation of another Colston Society - one devoted to educational advance. Mr Arrowsmith's horror of multiplying organisations at first made him hesitate to accept the suggestion, but on second thoughts, Mr Reid's idea of a University College Colston Society met with his approval, and steps were taken to carry it into effect.The result was extremely gratifying, for in addition to the useful sum annually subscribed, the new society's anniversary and the speeches delivered by men of national and even world-wide renown on these occasions had an undoubted influence in hastening the realisation of the University scheme. Mr Arrowsmith presided at the dinner in 1906, and £1,093 was collected. This is by far the highest amount yet raised at one of these anniversaries, but it is but fair to explain that it included a generous gift of £500 from Lord Strathoona. Mr Arrowsmith was a member of the University Council, being appointed by the Court. He served on the Colston Research Committee of the University, on the appointment of the University Colston Society; and was a member of the University Colston Society; and was a member of the University Athletic Ground Management Committee. His interest in the University was recognised by the decision in 1911 to name a new tower of the building in Tyndall's Park after him. The employees of his firm took advantage of this opportunity to indicate their respect by fixing, in October 1912, a beautiful bronze tablet to one of the walls of the tower. The tablet bore the following inscription:-
"By leave of the Council the workpeople of James Williams Arrowsmith of 11, Quay Street, Bristol, printer and publisher, and others connected with him in business, set up this tablet as a mark of their esteem and regard as well as a record, that on the 22nd day of September, 1911, the Council resolved in commemoration of the distinguished service rendered by him to the University, that this tower should henceforth be known as the Arrowsmith tower."
It may be added that Mr Arrowsmith had at a considerably earlier period put the eight hours' day system into operation in his great business, and had given his employees a pecuniary interest in the prosperity of the concern by a bonus system, stated to be equivalent, on the average, to four or five weeks' extra pay each year.
Among other movements with which Mr Arrowsmith identified himself was the erection of the Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill; to this he acted as one of the hon. secretaries. He interested himself in several of the local industrial and art exhibitions held in this city, and in the erection of the Colston statue in Colston Avenue. He was a local treasurer when the British Association came to Bristol in 1898, and shared in the honour of an exceptionally successful visit. Sir Norman Lockyer, in a moving vote of thanks to the citizens for the magnificent general hospitality and admirable arrangements, said these features had eclipsed all previous efforts during his thirty years' experience. Mr Arrowsmith, Mr Arthur Lee, and Dr Bertram Rogers, the trio who had so much to do with this result, were, in January 1899, entertained at a complimentary dinner at the Clifton Spa, and to each, as a memento, an inscribed silver salver was presented.
Mr Arrowsmith's wife predeceased him by some years, and he had no children.
06/05/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Boddam Castle
FUNERAL AT CLIFTON CHURCH
The funeral of the late Mrs Catherine Mary Castle, widow of Mr Boddam Castle, which occurred at her residence, Grove House, Clifton, on April 29th, took place yesterday, the service being held in Clifton Parish Church, and the internment taking place in the family vault of Clifton churchyard. The late Mrs Castle, who had resided at Grove House for more than fifty years, was a daughter of Samuel James, of Bristol, her mother being Catherine Wait, daughter of Daniel Wait, banker, who was Lord Mayor of Bristol in 1805-6. Samuel James, with his brother-in-law, William Killigrew Wait, the elder, founded the firm of Wait and James, corn merchants, in Bristol and Gloucester, about ninety years ago. Her husband, the late Mr Boddam Castle, was a member of an old Bristol family. During her lifetime Mrs Castle had been connected with a number of charitable and philanthropic societies, to which she was a liberal subscriber, and she was a life governor of the Bristol Royal Infirmary.
07/04/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Shirley
We regret to announce the death of Mr Samuel Shirley, of 5, Albert Road, Clifton, which occurred during a holiday trip in the Mediterranean. Mr Shirley left Bristol about three weeks ago by one of Dr Lunn's excursions,and Mr John Boyd was a member of the same party. On Saturday a telegram was received from Naples stating that Mr Shirley had been taken seriously ill, and his son, Mr Arthur Shirley, left home immediately in the hope of meeting him yesterday morning at Marseilles. On arrival there, however, he found that his father had died at sea after leaving Naples. The announcement of Mr Shirley's death caused a painful shock to the citizens, for he was well known and highly respected.
The deceased was the son of Mr Samuel Shirley, of Rewlach, in Staffordshire, and was born at Rewlach in 1840. He came to Bristol in 1862 and started business in Redcliff Street, removing to Clifton in 1865, and afterwards opening branch establishments in the grocery and provision trade in different parts of the city. Subsequently his son, Mr Arthur Shirley, became associated with him in business, and the title of the firm was changed to Shirley and Son, Limited. He was one of the founders of the Bristol Grocers' Association of which he also held the office of president, and was also at one time chairman of the Parliamentary Committee of the Grocers' Federation of Great Britain, on the General Purpose Committee of which he also did valuable work. Mr Shirley was also one of the originators of the Grocers' Benevolent Association, of which he was a past president. Mr Shirley entered the Bristol City Council as one of the representatives of the Clifton Ward on the death of Mr Burrow Hill, in 1897, and he rendered good service on the Health and other committees. He was also prominently identified with the work of the Clifton Improvement Committee. Much sympathy will be felt for the members of the family in the sad bereavement which has befallen them.
15/04/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman John Walls
The sincere respect in which the late Mr John Walls was held by the citizens of Bristol was shown in a marked manner by the large congregation which assembled at the service held at Clifton Parish Church yesterday afternoon, and subsequently at the graveside at Arno's Vale. As we have before mentioned the deceased was senior partner of the firm of Messrs J. Walls, Ltd., tailors, of Park Street, and it was to be observed yesterday how nearly all the business establishments in Park Street and College Green bore indications of the esteem in which the deceased was held in commercial circles. His connection with the City Council and his position as chairman of the Libraries Committee at the time of his death, which took place at his residence, 7, Woodland Road, after a short illness on Saturday, accounted for the representative civic gatherings of mourners which included the Lord Major (Mr Edward Robinson) and many of the late colleagues of the deceased.
10/08/1909
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Robert Townsend Hippisley
Property amounting to £99,594 14s 10d has been left by Mr Robert Townsend Hippisley of 1, Alma Road, Clifton, Bristol, solicitor, whose death occurred on the 4th of last month in his 85th year.
15/12/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Antony Gibbs
FUNERAL OF MRS ANTONY GIBBS
IMPRESSIVE SCENE AT WRAXALL
That the late Mrs Antony Gibbs, mother of the M.P. for Bristol West, was greatly esteemed among all classes in the district where she had passed the greater part of her life, was unmistakably shown when the funeral of this gracious lady took place yesterday at Wraxall. As already announced, Mrs Gibbs, who was the eldest daughter of Mr J. L. Merivale, and married Mr Antony Gibbs in June 1872, passed away on Thursday, at her London house. After her husband's death, in April, 1907, when Lieut-Col. Geo A. Gibbs, the eldest son, took up his residence at Tyntesfield, Mrs Gibbs went to live at Charlton House, about two miles distant. Less than a fortnight ago, Mrs Gibbs, though in indifferent health, being only to get about in a chair, left for her London residence, 104, Eaton Square. All her sons and daughters were with her at the end, except Captain Evelyn Gibbs, who was at Calcutta; and Mr Eustace Gibbs, who was at Valparaiso. A cable message announcing the serious nature of their mother's health, was sent to them, and, we understand, they are now on their way home.
19/01/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick G. Tyler
The announcement of the death of Mr Fred. G. Tyler will be received with very deep and sincere regret by the many residents in Bristol who had enjoyed his friendship. He was, it will be remembered, seized with a sudden illness at the Cafe, Wine Street, whilst distributing the prizes to the successful competitors at the Schoolmasters' Cricket Club whist drive, and it was apparent at the time that the case was serious. Mr Tyler was conveyed to his home in an unconscious condition, and he remained until death took place early yesterday morning. For some time past Mr Tyler's health had been a matter of concern to the members of his family, but apparently he made light of the matter himself and was disinclined to be regarded as an invalid. On Saturday evening some of his most intimate friends noticed that he did not appear to be in his usual state of health, yet his exceptional geniality was unimpaired, and almost his last words in giving away the prizes were characteristic of his ready wit and the thoroughness with which he entered into any pleasant social gathering. To the older generation of cricketers in this district Mr Tyler was one of the most well-known figures. He has been connected with the Schoolmasters' Cricket Club for very many years, and although he was rarely prominent as a successful player, his personality was such as to make his presence on the field an inspiration to his colleagues. One of the most successful periods of the second eleven of the Schoolmasters' club was enjoyed under his captaincy, and as president during the past five years he has, with Messrs J. and H. W. Chard and W. R. Powell, been directly concerned in bringing about the feeling of good fellowship that exists amongst the large number of members. Mr Tyler will be sadly missed not only by the Schoolmasters' club, but by many others who have been cheered by his bright and happy temperament. His inexhaustible fund of humour and his kindly disposition ensured the success of every gathering at which he was present, and it would be difficult to name a more popular personality in social and sporting circles. An earnest Churchman, Mr Tyler had been for more than twenty years a regular member of the choir of St. John's, Redland, throwing himself with characteristic heartiness into every effort for the welfare of the church, and in particular for the effectiveness of the musical service. Mr Tyler had taken an active interest in Freemasonry, and was a member of the Moira Lodge, of which he was a Past Master. He had also held the rank of Prov. Grand Supt. of Works. For many years Mr Tyler had resided at Clarendon Road, Redland, where his death took place at the age of 63 years.
06/12/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Mark Whitwill
Death of Mr M. Whitwill
A Notable Man of Shipping
We regret to announce the death of Mr Mark Whitwill, who had been in a poor state of health for some time, and had been living at Downend.
Mr Mark Whitwell was the son of the well-remembered Mr Mark Whitwell, who for a long period was leading member of the shipping trade and one of the founders of the Childrens' Hospital. The son, after receiving his education at Mill Hill School, joined his father in business, and became as popular as he was well-known in the city. Like his father, he was associated with Highbury Chapel, and took an active interest in several local institutions, especially the Childrens' Hospital, and societies to promote the welfare of the boys. Besides being a member of the Local Marine Board, he served as President of Chamber of Commerce and the Commercial Rooms, and was a good friend of the Sailors' Home.
For many years Mr Whitwill acted as Consul for Belgium and Vice-Consul for Uruguay. During the war he rendered good service to the Belgian refugees and was decorated by the King of Belgium. He was chairman of the West of England and Bristol Channel Port and Transit Committee, and for his services in that position was made a Commander (Civil Division) of the Order of the British Empire. In early life he joined the Bristol Artillery Volunteers, and he served also in the Territorial Force, attaining to the rank of lieutenant-colonel, receiving the coverted award of V.D. for long service. He entered the City Council in June 1906, and was at once appointed to the Docks Committee, where his experience and sound judgement were highly valued. He was made a justice of the peace in 1912. He was a Conservative and a member of the Constitutional Club. His son, Mr Mark Whitwill, who is in the business, rendered special service in the war, and received distinguished awards, including the D.S.O. He also has a son named Mark, so that the name is continued to the fourth generation. Mr Whitwill was brother-in-law to Mr Holman Gregory, K.C., M.P. who married his sister.
22/04/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Canon Edward Bates
Canon Edward Bates for 30 years parish priest of St Mary's, Julian Road, Bath, died on Wednesday night, aged 81. Deceased was educated at Prior Park, and was ordained there in 1887 by Bishop Clifford. In 1890 he was appointed curate to the late Canon Coxon at St. Nicholas, Pennywell Road, Bristol, but in the following year was placed in charge of St. Mary's, Bath where he had remained ever since. In 1919 Bishop Burton made him a Canon of Clifton. The deceased was much esteemed in the city for his amiable qualities, and had received two handsome presentations from the Roman Catholic community of Bath in appreciation of his devoted services. The funeral will be on Monday next, when it is expected the Bishop of Clifton, if recovered from his indisposition, will officiate.
23/03/1921
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas George Wright
The death is announced of Mr Thomas George Wright, 139 Cromwell Road, Montpelier. For a great many years Mr Wright had been intimately concerned with the educational work of the city, having been chief inspector of schools, first to the Bristol School Board, and afterwards to the Education Committee. Mr Wright, who was in his 71st year, was seized this week with serious illness, which ended fatally yesterday.
15/09/1921
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George Nash
Mr George Nash, of 5, The Grange, Westbury Road, Bristol, founder of the firm of Messrs George Nash and Sons Ltd., boot and shoe manufacturers, who died on the 28th June last, aged 72 years, left gross estate of the value of £15,277 13s 7d.
22/06/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Jollyman
Our obituary column yesterday contained an announcement of the death of a well-known figure in the tobacco-trade, Mr William Jollyman, managing director of Cope Brothers and Co. Limited, Liverpool and London, who passed away very suddenly at Criocieth, North Wales, on Friday last.
The 'Westminster Gazette' says:- Mr Jollyman began his business career with W. D. and H. O. Wills in Bristol, and when that firm opened a London office in Holborn Viaduct, Mr Jollyman was invited by the brothers Wills to take charge of it. During Mr Jollyman's managership in London the first machine for manufacturing cigarettes was introduced. Mr Jollyman was so successful that he decided to start business himself, and he brought the firm of Richard Lloyd in Clerkenwell. When there was talk of an American Tobacco Combine coming over to England, Mr Jollyman was invited to amalgamate with Cope Brothers and Co., of Liverpool and London. He accepted, and, moving from London to Liverpool, he and his able son, the late Mr Percy Jollyman, tackled a very difficult proposition in Liverpool. Great success rewarded their efforts and to-day the firm of Cope Brothers and Co. Limited, is one of the biggest tobacco manufacturing companies in Great Britain. Mr Jollyman was a strong Congregationalist, both he and Mrs Jollyman being closely identified with Clapton Park; Bromley, Kent; and Kirby, Cheshire Congregational Churches. Mr Jollyman leaves a widow and one daughter.
27/10/1920
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr P. Bennett
The death has occurred at Downend of Mr P. Bennett, who for many years discharged many public offices in Mangotsfield parish. For many years he was an overseer, a member of Keynsham Guardians, a member of Warmley District Council, and a member of Mangotsfield Parochial Committee, all of which duties he discharged faithfully and well. Few men in Mangotsfield parish knew better than he the history of parochial affairs in Mangotsfield during the past half century. In politics he was a Liberal, and in religion a Free Church man.
04/02/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Colonel J. R. Bramble
We regret to announce the death of Colonel J. R. Bramble, which took place at four o'clock yesterday morning, at his residence at Weston-super-Mare. The deceased was a solicitor, and for some years he was head of the firm of Bramble and Watts, of City Chambers, Nicholas Street, Bristol, from which he retired about ten years ago, and the business is now carried on by Messrs Page and Thompson. Colonel Bramble at one time commanded the corps of the Devon and Somerset Royal Engineers, whose headquarters were at Nailsea, and he took a keen interest in the proceedings of the Somersetshire Archaeological and Natural History Society, attended its meetings regularly, took part in its discussions for many years, and was president when the Society visited Weston-super-Mare, where he has resided for a considerable time. He was a great authority on archaeological and antiquarian subjects, and frequently contributed papers thereon in Bristol and elsewhere. He was a justice of the peace for Somerset, and served for a time on the County Council and County Education Committee. The deceased was a distinguished Freemason. He was initiated into the Beaufort Lodge, 103, Province of Bristol, in 1863, and became Master of the Lodge in 1865. He was founder and first Master of the Lodge of Agriculture, 1199, which now meets at Yatton, and in 1872 he was a founder of the St. Vincent Lodge at Bristol. He was appointed Provincial Deputy Grand Master of the Bristol Province in 1899, and also held the office of Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Mark Masons, and Prior of the Province of Bristol and Gloucestershire in the Knight Templar Degree. On the death of Right Worshipful Bro. W. A. Powell, in February 1906, Col. Bramble was appointed Provincial Grand Master, and his installation took place in the following June. He was succeeded in the office of Deputy Grand Master by Worshipful Bro. Pierrepont Harris, who had been Provincial Grand Secretary, and Worshipful Bro. J. C. Gilmore was appointed to the latter office. At the time of his death Colonel Bramble was, besides being Provincial Prior of Bristol and Gloucestershire, Grand Superintendent Designate of the Royal Arch, and also a member of the thirty-third degree.
19/03/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Gilmore Barnett
Terribly shocking as the sudden death of a much loved man must be to his relatives and friends, there is much more that is really distressing in the slow and painful ebbing away of vitality in a sick room than the sudden and painless cessation of a well-spent life, and deep and widespread as will be the sorrow caused by the death of so much respected a citizen as Mr Gilmore Barnett, the fact that the end came, without warning and without pain, in the midst of pleasant recreation, cannot really increase that sorrow. The sorrow is not for the dead but for the living, the family and relatives, to whom, indeed, the suddenness must increase the shock and pain of separation. And the many agencies and societies which labour in one way or another for the intellectual and social advancement of the citizens of Bristol cannot but mourn the abrupt ending of Mr Barnett's activities. For more than twenty years Mr Gilmore Barnett had enjoyed the confidence and merited the respect of the great working-class constituency which he represented on the City Council; his sympathies were ever on the side of the workers, and he devoted his life to every practical effort of housing, trade organisation, sanitation, and education by which he might benefit his fellow citizens. At an impressionable period of his boyhood he came, as one of the earliest pupils at Clifton College, under the influence of the present Bishop of Hereford, and he united with liberal culture that sense of popular sympathy which was represented forty years ago by Kingsley, Maurice, and Hughes, and was translated into action at the Toynbee Hall settlement by Mr Barnett's brother, now Canon Barnett of Westminster. It was in accordance with a high sense of the responsibility of citizenship that he gave up much of his time to necessary public work from which many educated men shrink, and it may be truly said of him that he served his day and generation well. To Mrs Barnett, who has co-operated with her husband in so many social and intellectual enterprises, the deepest sympathy must be tendered.
16/11/1908
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George Kelson Stothert
Mr George Kelson Stothert, M.I.C.E., M.I.M.E., second son of John Stothert, deceased (partner in the firm of G. K. Stothert and Co., marine engineers, Steam Ship Works, Bristol) left property which has been sworn at £26,822 3s 3d.
08/12/1908
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir Robert H. Symes
Sir Robert H. Symes of Burfield, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, a justice of the peace, four times Mayor of Bristol, and once Lord Mayor, who died on the 6th October, left property which was been sworn by the Rev. Josiah George Alford of Stoke Bishop, Bristol, Hon. Canon of Bristol Cathedral, and Mr Wilfrid J. Kempe, of Long Ashton, Somerset, two of the executors, at £44,413 10s 3d.
08/12/1908
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Lawes Perrin
Mr James Lawes Perrin, of Ashcroft, 7, Hampton Road, Cotham, Bristol, a partner in the firm of Franklyn, Davey, and Co., who died on the 12th of October last, left estate valued by the widow, Mrs Annie Ethel Perrin, Mr Warren George Saxton, and Mr William Frank Fletcher, all of Bristol, the executors, at £86,829 10s.
17/12/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr H. E. Sampson
FUNERAL OF MR H. E. SAMPSON
A PROMINENT BEDMINSTER RESIDENT
The funeral of Mr H. E. Sampson which took place yesterday afternoon, evoked many manifestations at the death, at a comparatively early age, of one of the most influential and energetic residents of Bedminster. Deceased was one of the principle directors of Messrs H. Sampson and Sons, Ltd., of the Malago Vale Ironworks, Bedminster, and although engaged in a large business, found opportunity and time for religious and social work. He was one of the founders and chairman of the Bedminster Y.M.C.A., one of the strongest branches in the West of England, which had already established itself as one of the most useful religious organisations in Bedminster. It was during the delivery of an address at the members' meeting that he was taken with a seizure some nine months ago. It was felt at the time that the illness was of a serious nature, and grief was expressed by all present at what was feared to be the beginning of the end of a useful and fruitful service to the Y.M.C.A. He was connected with Zion Congregational Church, Bedminster Bridge, and here again his energies were directed in promoting the spiritual life of the young. He was superintendent of the Sabbath school (one of the largest in the district), president of the Band of Hope, always sympathetic in every forward movement, and ever one of the first to lead in every effort to promote the kingdom of God.
30/01/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ernest George Lorymer
We regret to announce the death of a well-known citizen, Mr Ernest George Lorymer, who expired after a long illness on Monday at the age of 72 years, at his residence, Dudley Villa, Southfield Road, Cotham. The deceased when a young man was with Mr Robinson, corn merchant, Bristol, and after the death of his employer, he succeeded to the business on the Quay, and for many years it was carried on by him, in conjunction with his two brothers, Messrs Albert and Edward Lorymer. When the Corporation decided to cover that part of the Floating Harbour which is now laid out as Colston Avenue, the deceased contended that this was to the detriment of those who had properties facing the water, and ultimately he took legal proceedings against the City Council for the loss of water space. He was successful in the litigation. Mr E. G. Lorymer was connected with several company undertakings in Bristol, and at one time was president of the Commercial Rooms. He was a director of the Clifton Suspension Bridge Company and of the Cemetery Company. In addition to being the owner of houses in the city, he was also possessor of properties at Portishead, and had been chairman of the District Council in that locality.
Mr Lorymer had a long record as a guardian of the poor, having first sat at St. Peter's Hospital as an ex-officio guardian churchwarden of St. Stephen's in 1872 and since 1878 he was an elected guardian. He also held the highest offices in the board, viz., deputy governor and vice-chairman from April, 1889 to April 1891; and governor and chairman from April, 1891 to April 1893. He represented St .Stephen's till the old Incorporation of the Poor was dissolved. On the formation of the new board in 1898, he became candidate for St. Michael, and was returned in company with Miss Clifford and Mr J. H. Evans, and continued to serve until 1904, when failing health compelled him to resign. He was very assiduous in his duties as guardian, and paid particular attention to the business of the Maintenance and Settlement Committee.
16/03/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Sidman Thomas Stephens
Mr Sidman Thomas Stephens of Vyvyan Lodge, Tyndall's Park, Bristol, corn merchant, who died on December 26th last, left estate valued at £14,689 14s 5d gross.
31/05/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Dr Edward Markham Skerritt
Dr Edward Markham Skerritt, of Ivor House, Durdham Park, Bristol, well-known Bristol physician and surgeon, and until recently Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at University College, Bristol, who died on the 29th of last month, left estate sworn at £57,360 13s 2d.
31/05/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Dr Edward Markham Skerritt
Dr Edward Markham Skerritt, of Ivor House, Durdham Park, Bristol, well-known Bristol physician and surgeon, and until recently Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at University College, Bristol, who died on the 29th of last month, left estate sworn at £57,360 13s 2d.
11/02/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Henry Smith
Mr John Henry Smith, of Grove Road, Fishponds, Bristol, wheelwright and carriage builder, of the firm of J. H. Smith and Sons, who died January 23rd last, left estate sworn at £2,445 16s 5d gross.
13/06/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Christopher John King
DEATH OF MR C. J. KING
A WELL-KNOWN STEVEDORE
News of the sudden death of Mr Christopher John King, head of the firm of Messrs C. J. King and Sons, stevedores and tug-owners, of Bristol and Avonmouth, created a painful sensation in local shipping and commercial circles yesterday. On Tuesday evening Mr King was visiting a friend, when he was suddenly taken ill, and died almost immediately from heart trouble.
The firm of which the deceased gentleman was head was founded by his father, and its smartness in dealing with large undertakings has frequently been commented upon. In recent years he, with his sons, had watched the interests of the firm at Avonmouth, his brother, Mr Samuel James King, being in charge of the Bristol office at 14, Prince Street. He was about 65 years of age.
01/08/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Joseph Hatton
The death is announced of Mr Joseph Hatton, the well-known author, novelist, and journalist. Mr Hatton, who died at his house, 15, Elm Tree Road, St. John's Wood, had been unwell for some time past. About a year ago he had a slight seizure, from which, however, he seemed for a time to recover. An internal complaint then developed, necessitating an operation. Mr Hatton may be said to have been cradled in journalism. His father, a London printer, founded the 'Derbyshire Times', the first penny paper to be published in Peakland, and, as Mr Hatton once said, "My impulse of journalism was sprouted into my inner consciousness in an atmosphere redolent of printers' ink and the sweet perfumes of roll-making, squat type-cases, old Columbian presses, an the first printing machine seen in the wilds of Derbyshire". After a brief period on the 'Derbyshire Times' not hitting it off with the editor, whom in after years he described as a pedant, he migrated to Bristol at the age of 22. He was then already a married man and a father. He had a brief experience of London, and retreated again to the provinces, thinking in his modest way, that Fleet Street was too clever for him.
08/08/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
3rd Marquis of Bristol (Frederick William John Hervey)
We regret to state that the Marquis of Bristol died at Bury St. Edmunds at 4.30 yesterday morning.
Frederick William John Hervey, third Marquis of Bristol, was born in 1834, his mother being the youngest daughter of the late Gen. Hon. George Anson. The Marquis was a Conservative in politics, though in favour of financial reform. Educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, he went to the House of Commons for West Suffolk from 1859-64. He estates comprise about 32000 acres. The late Marquis was Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk since 1886; hereditary High Steward of Liberty of the St. Edmund, and was hon. Colonel of the 3rd Battalion Suffolk Militia.
His lordship contracted a chill at Easter and never fully recovered. He is succeeded in the title by Capt. Frederick Harvey, Conservative M.P. for Bury St. Edmunds, whose elevation to the peerage causes a parliamentary vacancy.
27/09/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Goodenough Taylor
DEATH OF MR GOODENOUGH TAYLOR
We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Goodenough Taylor, which took place at Clevedon, last evening, after an illness lasting several months. The deceased gentleman, who was the eldest son of Mr T. D. Taylor, while his health permitted, was one of the most active Bristolians, and interested himself in many objects. In May he went to residence at Clevedon. Two or three months ago he underwent a very severe operation for an affection of the throat; but though it was successfully performed, he never fully recovered his strength. Mr Goodenough Taylor, after a preliminary training in the office of the 'Times and Mirror', removed to the metropolis, where he was on the staff of the 'Globe', and afterwards migrated to the gallery for the 'Morning Post', during the time also being in the legacy department at Somerset House. He was educated at Blundell's School, Tiverton, and among the numerous appointments which he received in his after life none were esteemed more highly by him than his election as one of the governors of the famous school. When he returned to Bristol from London he became a member of the firm who were proprietors of the 'Times and Mirror', and at the time of his death was a director of the limited company who now own the newspaper, his father being chairman. The deceased retained his connection with journalism in London by acting as a member of the council of the Newspaper Press Fund, while locally he rendered good service to the Institute of Journalists, having been president of the Bristol District during the year in which the Institute visited this city. There were few of his associations more valued by Mr Goodenough Taylor than those with the Royal Navy Artillery Volunteers, and he became a member of the first Bristol contingent. When the corps was disbanded, he, with others, considered it a retrograde step, and took a prominent part in the re-establishment of the force. He was appointed a member of the committee to consider the conditions under which it should be reformed; and when the Bristol detachment came to be constituted he was offered and accepted an honorary lieutenancy. Yachting was especially dear to him. He was a member of the Royal Thames Yacht Club, and vice-commodore of the Penarth Yacht Club. Among other appointments which he held, he had been president of the Grateful Society, Master of the Society of Stephen's Ringers, was a member of the Bristol Zoological Society, and chairman of the Bristol Dogs' Home. He was also president of the Commercial Rooms. By reason of affability, he had troops of friends, and he was constantly in request at social gatherings, where he proved an acceptable speaker. Mr Goodenough Taylor was about 60 years of age. He married Miss Slack, a Somerset lady, who predeceased him. He leaves three children, his son, Mr Lionel Taylor (a director of the 'Times and Mirror' Limited), and two daughters. Though it has been known for some time that Mr Taylor was in a critical condition, the news of his death will occasion very widespread regret, and the utmost sympathy will be felt for his revered father and all the members of the bereaved family.
22/10/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Proctor Baker
THE LATE MR PROCTOR BAKER'S WILL
REQUESTS FOR BENEVOLENT AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
The will of the late Mr William Proctor Baker, of Sandhill Park, near Taunton, who died on the 17th August last, has been proved at the principal registry by the executors, his widow, Messrs H. N. Abbot and W. C. Beloe, and his nephew, Mr Edgar A. V. Baker, the estate being of the value of £160, 525.
29/11/1907
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Forster Brown
WILL OF THE LATE MR FORSTER BROWN
REQUEST TO THE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
Probate of the will, with seven codicils, of the late Mr Thomas Forster Brown, of Springfort, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, and a partner in the firm of Forster Brown and Rees, of Cardiff, mining and civil engineers, who died at Richmond, Yorkshire, on the 23rd October, 1907, was granted by the Probate Division of the High Court of Justice. The net amount of the real and personal estate, including certain moneys settle by the testator under his marriage settlement, amount to £104,679 16s 2d.
18/01/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr H. O'Brien O'Donoghue
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry O'Brien O'Donogue, which took place at his residence, "Lyndhurst", Leigh Woods, yesterday. Mr O'Donoghue was admitted a solicitor in 1857. He was formerly in partnership with Mr W. C. C. Anson, but of late the firm has been O'Donoghue and Forbes. Mr O'Donoghue was clerk to the old Bedminster Board of Guardians, which met at the workhouse, Flax Bourton, and after Bedminster was incorporated with Bristol he retained the office of clerk to the Long Ashton Board of Guardians. Subsequently he resigned the position, and was succeeded by Mr A. E. Hicks. Mr O'Donoghue had also for many years been clerk to the magistrates of the Long Ashton Division, but, owing to ill-health, had very rarely been able to attend the court of late, his place being filled by his partner, Mr B. R. M. Forbes, the assistant clerk. The deceased gentleman was a member of the Established Church, and not infrequently presided at missionary and other meetings. He was 72 years of age.
24/01/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman Joseph Thomas Board
DEATH OF ALDERMAN J. T. BOARD
We regret to announce that Alderman Joseph Thomas Board after a lingering illness passed away yesterday morning at his residence, Roseneath, Willsbridge. The deceased gentleman, though of an unobtrusive disposition, took considerable interest in public affairs, and did much good in the parish of St. Philip and Jacob, where he filled the office of churchwarden. For many years he was associated with the Vestry, and until his death remained in close touch with church matters in the parish. He was managing director of the Bristol Distilling Company, Limited, whose premises are situated in Cheese Lane, and his father was associated with the Distillery before the limited liability principle had been adopted by the proprietors. From his close connection with St. Philip's Church it may be inferred that Mr Board was a staunch churchman, and his great interest in all that related to parochial doings was shown when in an inquiry into the funds arising out of the ecclesiastical property which took place some years ago, the Rev. E. A. Fuller, vicar of St. Barnabas, sought to demonstrate that the sum payable out of the St. Philip's funds to the parish of St. Paul, was at that time inadequate, though when the division was originally made it might have been fair. Mr Board was a prominent member of the Conservative party and was one of the founders of the club in Old Market Street, specially started for the accommodation of Conservative working men. He resided several years at Derrystone, Tyndall's Park. The interest which he felt in local affairs extended beyond the parish of St. Philip and on the 1st November, 1885, he was elected a councillor for Bristol Ward, his colleague being Mr J. W. S. Dix. On the 10th July 1900, he was elected alderman, and was one of the number of aldermen whose period of office terminates next year. The deceased's wife survives him and he leaves several children.
10/04/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Colthurst Godwin
Bristolians will learn with sincere regret of the death which occurred last evening at Clevedon, under painful circumstances, of Mr J. Colthurst Godwin. For some time Mr Godwin has suffered from indifferent health, and since Christmas has been living at The Arches, Clevedon. Dr A. F. Blagg, of Clifton, attended him, and lately there was an improvement in Mr Godwin's health. Yesterday he seemed to be in very good spirits, but about half-past-five in the evening, his daughter, Miss Hilda Godwin, went to a room at the top of the house, and found her father apparently lifeless, with a six chambered revolver by his side, three of the chambers being empty. Dr Bisder was summoned, and pronounced life extinct.
It will be remembered that a short time ago Mr Godwin retired from the City Council on account of his health. It was at the meeting of the Council on February 13th that a letter was received from him expressing regret that he found it necessary to give notice of his intention to retire from the City Council, and adding that he should always appreciate the courtesy he had received from the members of the Council. Alderman W. Howell Davies expressed their deep regret at the reason of Alderman Godwin's retirement, adding that he had done very valuable work, and was exceedingly genial in the discharge of his duties. He moved that some expression of the goodwill of the Council be sent to him. This was seconded by Alderman C. B. Hare, and the resignation was regretfully accepted by the Council. Mr Godwin entered the Council in March, 1893, as one of the representatives of the Redcliff Ward, filling the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr J. E. Jefferies. He had once had to undergo the ordeal of a contested election. That was in 1894, when he and Mr E. B. James defeated Mr Harold Brabham, who came forward as a labour candidate. Mr Godwin resided at Ellinthorpe, Stoke Bishop, and in the Council strongly opposed the extension of the boundaries. He had held the office of High Sheriff and Lord Mayor, and was on the Bristol bench of magistrates. He succeeded Herbert Ashman as Lord Mayor in 1901, when Mr E. B. James (the Lord Mayor of last year) was High Sheriff, and he was subsequently elected as an alderman. Mr Godwin was one of the churchwardens of St. Mary Redcliff, and Mr James was a past warden. Miss Godwin acted as Lady Mayoress during her father's mayoralty.
The deceased gentleman, who was one of the first pupils at Clifton College, was prominently associated with the commercial life of the city, and was a member of the firm of Messrs Godwin, Warren, Fry, and Co., wholesale iron merchants, of Redcliff Street. It was as a member of the Chamber of Commerce that he first took part in public work. He served the office of president of the Chamber in 1885-6, and it was during his presidency that, in response to repeated applications by the Chamber, the Midland and Great Western Companies opened the section of the Clifton Extension Railway from Clifton Down to Avonmouth for passenger traffic, it having previously been used for goods only. Mr Godwin was formerly Liberal in politics, and was chairman of the Anchor Society in 1885. When, however, the split took place in the Liberal party over Mr Gladstone's Home Rule measure, he became a Unionist and as chairman of the Bristol South Conservative Association was an ardent supporter of the Right Hon. Walter Long, when that gentleman was returned as representative of Bristol South in Parliament. In 1902 Mr Godwin was chairman of the Dolphin Society. He was about sixty years of age.
28/06/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Hudson Smith
We regret to announce the death, which occurred at his residence, Apsley Road, Clifton, yesterday morning, of Mr J. Hudson Smith, one of the oldest accountants in the city.
Mr John Hudson Smith was born in Bristol, and his father carried on business as a hosier in Wine Street. In the fifties he was with Mr W. J. Williams, accountant, and became partner with Mr William Hole Williams, whose offices were situated in the Exchange, where the firm composed of different members has since conducted an extensive practice. After Mr W. H. Williams retired in 1881, Mr Hudson Smith was united in partnership with Mr Alfred Williams, son, and he, dying suddenly, Mr Hudson Smith in course of time, was joined by Mr William Briggs (who had been associated with Mr G. E. Swithinbank), the style of the firm then becoming Hudson, Smith, Briggs, and Co., chartered accountants. Owing to advancing years, Mr Hudson Smith retired in June, 1905, and the present partners are Mr William Briggs, and Mr Clare Smith. The deceased gentleman was one of the oldest accountants in the city, and he did much to place the profession upon a high level. In the seventies his name was frequently before the public as an arbitrator and an umpire, and indeed his well-known fairness, combined with an unfailing courtesy, always made troublesome and frequently complicated arbitrations to be conducted smoothly. One of the last matters referred to him was the celebrated local case of Lorymer v the Corporation in which Messrs Lorymer Brothers, corn merchants, claimed recompense as frontagers for the loss of water space when the Council decided to arch that part of the Floating Harbour between the Drawbridge and the Stone Bridge. The litigation proceeded to the House of Lords, where the decision of Mr Hudson Smith was upheld. Those who had the pleasure of transacting business with the deceased gentleman know that the profession of accountantship in this city of Bristol has lost in him a man of charming character, whose motto was always "Fiat justitia, ruat coelum". This, in fact, was the motto afixed to a paper which was read by him before the early Society of Student Accountants in Bristol. Mr Hudson Smith was never married, and the only representative of his family in Bristol is Mr Nathaniel Smith. In addition to his work as an accountant, the deceased gentleman was interested in several undertakings. He was chairman of the Bristol and West of England Building Society, a director of the College Green Hotel Company, the Colston Hall Company, the Rhymney Railway Company, and the Gloucester Wagon Company. He was also a member of the committee of the Bristol Dispensary and of the Benevolent Institution. He was a Nonconformist, and took an active share in the erection of Christ Church, Sneyd Park, besides contributing to its upkeep. Music possessed great charm for him, and during a long term of years he was connected with the Bristol Orpheus Glee Society, and when he could no longer appear as one of the choir, he was elected an honorary member, the other honorary members being Mr W. R. Bennett, Mr C. Despres, and Mr T. Usher.
25/07/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Howard H. Carr
The funeral of Mr Howard H. Carr, of the firm of Messrs Howard H. Carr and Co., wholesale boot and shoe factors, of King Square, took place on Monday afternoon at Greenbank Cemetery, in the presence of a large number of relatives and personal friends. Mr Carr, who was only forty years of age, had been ill for some time. His health showing signs of failing, Mr Carr, with his wife, went about twelve months ago on a voyage to Jamaica, from which he derived temporary benefit; but he gradually, owing to the insidious nature of his illness, became worse, and he died on Thursday last at his residence, Ashgrove House, Ashley Down Road. Mr Carr was the founder of the firm of the boot and shoe factors with which he was connected until his death. A couple of years ago he took into partnership Mr J. Norris, a gentleman of considerable experience in the trade, and since that time the firm was known as Howard H. Carr and Co. Mr Carr was universally esteemed in business and private life. He was of genial temperament and generous in disposition, and his many good qualities endeared him to a wide circle of friends in the West of England. He was a member of the congregation of St. Barnabas, Ashley Road, and several times, with assiduousness, and consideration, as churchwarden.
06/11/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. Hurle Clarke
Much regret was yesterday felt when it became known that Mr W. Hurle Clarke, one of the veterans among Bristol solicitors, had passed away at his home in Somersetshire. Mr Clarke had for the last thirty years been a familiar figure in diocesan functions, and as a rule he was called upon to perform some part of the ceremony when a new church had to be consecrated. On such occasions it fell to his lot to read the legal instrument setting forth the conditions under which the property had been acquired, and declaring the fact that it was henceforth to be used for the purposes of the Church of England as by law established. The deceased gentleman was the son of Mr C. S. Clarke; he was born in Bristol, was educated at the Bishop's College, in Queen's Road, an institution through which during its comparatively short existence many prominent citizens passed. The late Colonel Sir Edward Hill was one of Mr W. H. Clarke's schoolfellows. On leaving, while quite a youth, he went to the office in Broad Street, was articled, and in due time admitted as a solicitor. This occurred in 1859. In course of time Mr Clarke became head of the firm, and in addition to being secretary to the Lord Bishop, and registrar of the consistory court, he was district registrar in the Probate Division of the High Court of Justice. He married the daughter of Col. Long, of Congresbury, who survives him, and had no family. Although regularly engaged in the professional work of his office in Bristol, he lived at Wanstrow, not far from Frome. Country life attracted, not from its agricultural possibilities, but because it gave opportunities for occasional shooting. His death occurred at the age of 68. The other partners in the firm thus deprived of its head are Mr John H. Clarke and Mr W. Sefton Clarke.
27/12/1906
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr S. T. Stephens
Sincere regret will be felt in Bristol commercial circles at the announcement of the death of Mr S. T. Stephens, of Vyvyan Lodge, Tyndall's Park Road. Mr Stephens was a man who mixed very little in public life, but in business circles was held in the highest esteem. He had spent his life in connection with the corn trade, for many years having been connected with Messrs Wait and James. For a period he entered into other business relationships, but afterwards rejoined the firm, and, until his fatal illness, took a very prominent part in the conduct of the affairs. He was extremely well-known in the trade, and few men possessed a greater knowledge of it. He was a familiar figure on the Bristol Corn Exchange, and was as well-known for his genial disposition as for his judgement on matters connected with the corn business. He was about until a week ago, but was then taken ill, and removed to a nursing home, where an operation was performed for appendicitis. It was at first thought that he had excellent prospects of recovering, but a change set in, and he died yesterday morning. The deceased gentleman was about 62 years of age, and he leaves a widow and several grown-up children.
25/01/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Alexander Macallan Carr
It will be learnt with much regret that Dr Alexander Macallan Carr, a well-known medical practitioner, of Knowle, died suddenly at his residence on Monday night. He had been ailing for some time, but was able to carry on his professional work right up to the last; in fact, he was seen at Knowle Constitutional Club on Monday evening, apparently in his usual health. He went home, but went out again to attend a patient. On returning, he had some supper, but shortly afterwards he fell back in his chair and expired. Dr Carr who was 70 years of age, had spent the greater part of his life in the Knowle and Totterdown district. He was closely connected with the religious life of the district, and took a prominent part in matters connected with the Holy Nativity Church. He was also closely identified with the E.C.U., and was one of the most regular attendants at the meetings held in that district. He was a member of the School Board in the days when the extra municipal part of Bedminster had a board looking after its educational affairs. The Bristol Dogs' Home also had Dr Carr's full sympathy and practical help, and he was associated with the institution from its commencement, being a member of the committee.
04/07/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George J. Braikenridge
DEATH OF MR G. J. BRAIKENRIDGE
A MEMBER OF AN OLD BRISTOL FAMILY
Almost the last remaining representative of a once well known firm of Bristol merchants, of the name of Braikenridge, passed away on Saturday last, by the decease of Mr Geo. J. Braikenridge, solicitor, of the firm of Messrs Braikenridge and Edmunds, of Barletts Buildings, Holborn Circus. The deceased gentleman was 78 years of age, and his grandfather and uncles were leading West India merchants who were for many years established in the city of Bristol. His father, who was engaged in business pursuits in London, took a country house in Enfield, on the outer suburbs of the metropolis. There the late Mr Braikenridge passed the whole of his long life, an esteemed member of the Society of Friends, and a most generous - and anonymous - friend to the poor. He was entrusted with the attorney's work connected with many private families, and will by all classes of local residents, be greatly missed.
12/05/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick Cordeux
DEATH OF MR FREDERICK CORDEUX
We regret to announce the death of Mr Frederick Cordeux, the founder of the well-known business in St. James's Barton now styled Barton Warehouses.
Over 60 years ago Mr F. Cordeux and his brother, Mr John Cordeux, started business in Bristol, but the partnership was soon dissolved, and while the latter turned his attention to an establishment in Clifton, Mr Frederick Cordeux started in a small way in the Barton.He steadily built up the business which now occupies such a prominent position. Whilst in Bristol Mr Cordeux lived at Hazelhurst, Cotham Park, but had for many years resided at Watford, Hertfordshire.
The deceased gentleman had always taken a deep interest in the public affairs of this city, and for a considerable period represented St. James's Ward on the City Council. He was also associated with St. James's Church, having filled the offices of vestryman and churchwarden. When he retired from active participation in the management of the business twenty years ago, Mr Cordeux became chairman of the company, a position he held up to the time of his death, which occurred at Wolverton in Buckinghamshire, on Wednesday. He was 83 years of age, and had been ailing for some time. He leaves a family of three sons and two daughters.
12/06/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Parr
Many Bristolians will receive with deep regret the news of the death of Mr Thomas Parr, a highly-respected citizens, and a gentleman who was well-known as a member of the firm of Messrs Osborne, Ward, Vassall, and Co., solicitors, Broad Street. Mr Parr, who was a son of the late Robert H. Parr, of Parkstone, Dorsetshire, has been in indifferent health for some time, and about two or three months ago went to Weston-super-Mare. While there he contracted a cold, and since his return to Clifton he has been more or less confined to his house, at Cornwallis Grove, Clifton, where he passed away yesterday morning. Though an estimable citizen, Mr Parr took no active part in civic matters. He was a member of the original firm of Messrs Vassall and Parr, which some years ago amalgamated with Messrs Osborne and Ward. The firm being the solicitors to the old Incorporation of the Poor, which, since the extension of the boundaries, has been known as the Bristol Board of Guardians, it fell to Mr Parr to look after this particular work. Up to the last few years he was also accustomed to represent the Great Western Railway Company in matters requiring attention in the Bristol district, and conducted prosecutions for the company at the Bristol police court. The firm also act as clerks to the Docks Trustees and the Merchant Venturers' Society. Mr Parr was admitted a solicitor in 1859, and was a member of the Bristol Incorporated Law Society. In politics he was a Conservative, but was not actively connected with any of the organisations, except that he identified himself with the Dolphin Society. He was president in the year 1878, when, with one exception, a record collection for that time was taken, the amount reaching £1,159. Mr Parr leaves a widow. One of his daughters married Mr Danger (Messrs Danger and Cartwright), and another the late Mr Tudor Vaughan. It may be remembered that Mr Parr lost a son about 12 months ago.
30/06/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry R. James
DEATH OF MR H. R. JAMES
The announcement of the death of Mr Henry R. James which occurred yesterday morning at his residence, 13, Redland Park, was received with general regret in the city. The deceased was a Bristol man, who had spent a long life in close association with the business of the port. He was educated at a private school conducted by Dr. Stone, at Summerhill, and served a term with Messrs King, then a prominent firm of ship brokers in the city. Later he started in business with a partner, at whose death he remained in sole control until, many years later, two of his sons joined the concern. During the Crimean War he made important contracts with the Government for the supply of cargoes of hay, and these were shipped from Bristol in sailing vessels he chartered. In the palmy days of Bristol sugar refining he had a huge business. It is said that he was agent in at least 75 per cent of the vessels bringing the cargoes for the Bristol refineries. The great firm of Finzel did not buy direct, but through Mr Beloe (the father of the present sugar broker), and Mr James acted in most of such cases as the ship broker. The Bristol City Line is among the present agencies of the firm. Mr James was a Conservative and a Churchman, but took little part in public life. He often attended the Grateful dinner on the Colston anniversary, had several times been churchwarden of St. John's, Redland, but declined the invitations given him to become a candidate for the Bristol City Council. He evinced a good deal of interest in Free Masonry, was P.M. of the Royal Sussex Lodge, 187, the chair of which he filled for a second year, and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Bristol conferred on him the highest honour it could give - viz. the rank of Prov. Senior Grand Warden. Mr James was a little over 70 years of age, and had been predeceased by his wife. He had three sons and three daughters. Of the former, one entered the leather trade, but the others - Mr William H. James and Mr Herbert H. James - joined their father in the ship broking business. The deceased gentleman was of a kindly disposition, and in a quiet way was a charitable man.
12/12/1905
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Randall James
Mr Henry Randall James of 3, Queen Square and 13, Redland Park, Bristol, shipbroker, whose death occurred at his residence on the 29th June last, at the age of 73 left property which has been returned at the total value of £19,014 1s 4d.
09/01/1904
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Low
Probate of the will of Mr James Low, of 2, Berkeley Square and 15, Queen's Road, Bristol, confectioner, who died on November 23rd last, has granted. The whole estate is sworn at £3,946 15s.
17/03/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Miss Mary Tyndall
Charitable institutions in Bristol generally, and those associated with St. Michael's district in particular, have lost a warm hearted and generous supporter by the death of Miss Mary C. Tyndall, which occurred early yesterday morning at her residence, The Fort, Tyndall's Park. Considerable historical interest attaches to the house, which has been the home of the Tyndall family for several generations. Since the death of Miss Sybil Tyndall only a short time ago, Miss Mary Tyndall has occupied the house with her sister, who is also well-known for her many acts of charity. Another sister is Mrs Ord, the wife of Colonel Ord. The Misses Tyndall have been identified with the Children's Hospital ever since the institution has been at its present quarters on St. Michael's Hill. The deceased lady was a member of the committee of management and took an active part in the work. She frequently visited the hospital, and at the annual meeting of subscribers a week ago regret was expressed by the president at the fact that illness prevented her from attending. She had been present at a committee meeting on February 6th and in the same week she was seized with an illness that proved fatal. The poor have lost a kind and sympathetic friend, and among other institutions the District Nurses' Society, which has a nurse always at work in St. Michael's, has lost a valued supporter. She contributed to various parochial organisations - in fact very few subscription lists for charitable objects closed without the name of Miss Mary Tyndall being included. The flags at St. Michael's Church and the Children's Hospital were at half-mast yesterday when the sad news became known.
10/08/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Francis Christopher May
We regret to announce the death of Mr Thomas Francis Christopher May, which occurred after an illness extending over a period of six months, at his residence, Park House, Cotham Park, yesterday. The deceased gentleman was the senior partner of the well-known firm of May and Hassall, timber merchants, Cumberland Basin, and had been prominently connected with the Bristol Channel Timber Importers' Association, though of late failing health and advancing years had kept him from much business. Mr May had a long and close connection with Portland Wesleyan Chapel. He was a local preacher, and in past years had filled all the circuit offices, and attended both the district synods and the Conference as lay representative, thus filling all the positions open to a layman in connection with the Wesleyan Church. He was a generous contributor to causes that appealed to him, and was in great demand as a chairman of Sunday school anniversary and other meetings. He was 74 years of age.
12/12/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Daniel
DEATH OF MR HENRY DANIEL
A LONG AND USEFUL CAREER
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry Daniel, which occurred yesterday morning at his residence, Victoria Villa, Tyndall's Park. Mr Daniel had not enjoyed good health for a considerable time. He went to Clevedon for a while, and came back apparently in improved health. This however was not maintained. For some little time his condition had given rise to growing anxiety, and the worst fears have now been realised.
Mr Henry Daniel had been so long before the citizens of Bristol that he was connected with a generation most of whom passed away some years before him. He was a native of Westbury-on-Trym, born in 1826, and was educated privately. Quite a lad when he came to this city, he early became associated with Mr Samuel Alexander, one of the leading auctioneers, valuers, and surveyors. In its early days the business was carried on at 49, Broad Street, under the style of Alexander and Son. In 1790 it was established by Mr Alexander's grandfather. As a valuer of very great repute in the West of England, Mr Alexander had been engaged in many important negotiations. For some years his most prominent work was in important compensation cases arising out of street and other public improvements. He obtained considerable assistance from Mr Henry Daniel who during upwards of fifty years was connected with, and on the death of Mr Alexander in April, 1888, became senior partner in, the firm of Alexander, Daniel, and Co. During his long career as an auctioneer and valuer, Mr Daniel was enabled to see several flourishing businesses similar to his own pass away. Among those who were successful auctioneers when he entered into partnership with Mr Alexander were J. Fargus and Son (afterwards Fargus Brothers), 4, Clare Street; W. Roue, 18, Park Street; S. Sprod, Baldwin Street; G. Standerwick, 8, Union Street; J. C. Wallop, Nicholas Street; J. Nash, 11 Bridge Street; G. C. Harril, 27, Broad Street. A few prominent firms that then flourished are still in existence, as for example, Barnard, Thomas and Co., (Albion Chambers), now Tribe, Clarke, and Co.
The business of Alexander, Daniel, and Co., continued to advance, and the fine saleroom in Broad Street (at present occupied by Messrs George Nichols, Young, Hunt, and Co.) became quite a centre of attraction through the frequent important sales by auction carried on there. When Mile's Banking Company relinquished their extensive premises in Corn Street, in consequence of amalgamation with Cave, Baille, and Co., Messrs Alexander, Daniel, and Co., became processors of the former bank premises, which are at the present time occupied by the United Counties Bank. Mr Daniel retired from business in 1896. He was a many-sided man, and besides attending closely to the details of a comprehensive undertaking with his partner, Mr Alexander and subsequently with Mr Pritchard, he found time to engage in many other pursuits.
A staunch Liberal, he became chairman of St. Michael's Ward Liberal Association, his residence in the Ward, at Victoria Villa, Tyndall's Park Road, naturally causing himself to be allied with the political organisation in St. Michael's. He was induced to come forward to represent the Ward in the City Council, and he remained a councillor from 1882 to 1891. His connection with the Liberal Party was further emphasized by his becoming treasurer and president of the West Bristol Association, and a vice-president of the Bristol Liberal Thousand. In 1886 he was chosen president of the Anchor Society, being immediately preceded by Mr J. Colthurst Godwin, and followed by Mr Edward Robinson. Other appointments which the deceased held were those of chairman of the Grand Hotel Company, honorary auditor for several philanthropic institutions, among them the Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Women, the National Benevolent Institution, and the Bristol Benevolent Institution. He was president and honorary treasurer of the Kingsdown Provident Dispensary; and one of the Charity Trustees.
Music possessed a particular charm for Mr Daniel, and when a young man he became a member of the choir of Old Market Street Wesleyan Chapel. Upon the establishment of the Presbyterian Church in Bristol, and before the erection of the structure upon St. James's Parade, Mr Daniel occasionally acted as precensor at the services held in the Broadmead Rooms. Some of his happiest hours were spent at the rehearsals of the Bristol Madrigal Society in the long room at the Montague Hotel, Kingsdown, and during many years he was one of the vice-presidents of the society. His memory was retentive, and he loved to indulge in recalling the doings of local musical societies with which he was conversant.
For forty years Mr Daniel was a member of the congregation at Highbury Chapel and during the great part of that period had been deacon. Organisations associated with the Congregationalists enlisted his sympathies, and he amply justified the soundness of the aphorism that if any work was required to be done, get a business man to do it. He served on the committee of the Western College, and of the Gloucestershire and Herefordshire Congregational Union, of which he was a past president. For half-a-century he had been one of the honorary secretaries of the Bristol Young Men's Christian Association, while he was a past president of the Bristol City Mission and chairman of the Executive Committee.
Besides much labour in comparatively unobtrusive channels, Mr Daniel in 1894 was appointed Justice of the Peace for the city, and at the advanced age of 68 years he was chosen Sheriff of Bristol.
13/05/1918
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Ernest John Houghton
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. Ernest John Houghton, Rector of St. Stephen's which occurred at the Rectory, Charlotte Street, on Saturday afternoon, after an illness of several months. Mr Houghton, who was educated at the University and Theological College of McGill, Montreal, was ordained deacon in 1877, and priest in the following year. He was curate of St. Paul, Upper Lachine, Montreal, in 1877, and rector of St. Mark, Longueil, P.Q., from 1878 to 1882. In the latter years he became curate of St. Luke, Torquay, and from 1887 to 1889 he was curate of St. Paul's, Clifton; after which he held a similar appointment at Swindon from 1890 to 1891. He became vicar at St. Luke, Gloucester, and remained there until 1895, and was appointed rector of St. Stephen, Bristol, in 1898 so that his association with the church and parish has extended over twenty years. Mr Houghton's impending resignation owing to continued ill-health was alluded to at the Easter Vestry meeting, and the following references were made to it in the charge of the Archdeacon of Bristol at the recent visitation of the clergy of the Bristol Deaneries:- "The resignation of the rector of St. Stephen's must under any circumstances be a matter of special interest in the city which is adorned by John Shipward's glorious tower, but the impending retirement of the Rev. E. J. Houghton claims far more than an ordinary notice. As his oldest friend, who know him before he came into this diocese, and has had just cause to follow with deep regard his career for a space of many years, I have a particular claim to speak. He has filled three highly responsible charges in the old United See, one of them under circumstances of quite exceptional difficulty. Of his work at St. Stephen's there is no need for me to speak at length; the unfeigned sorrow of the very many who were wont to resort thither bears its emphatic testimony, and when after long battling with great weakness, and alas! great suffering, he decided to lay down his charge, he assuredly set a seal to his fruitful labours which all must recognise and respect."
29/03/1904
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Hayward
One of the oldest and most respected of Bristol tradesmen passed away early on Sunday morning at the ripe age of 88. As far back as 1840, Mr John Hayward established the well-known stationary business and newspaper and advertising agency at the corner of High Street and Corn Street, and prior to that he had been associated with a similar business in All Saints' Lane. Of late years the state of his health did not permit of his coming to the city except in fine weather. He suffered a good deal from bronchitis, and remained at home during the winter months - but the older generation of Bristolians will remember him when he was to be seen regularly behind the counter of High Street, taking an active part in the business. He was a man of genial disposition, and was held in high esteem by his numerous customers and others who knew him well. Mr Hayward leaves a widow and daughter.
20/05/1904
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Collingwood
Probate of the will of the late Mr William Collingwood of Rosslyn Villa, Abbotsford Road, Bristol, honorary member of the Royal Society of Painters in Water-colours, and for many years a well-known teacher of art has been granted. The amount of the estate is entered at £2,203 9s 8d.
17/08/1904
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Matthew Robinson
Mr Matthew Robinson, late locomotive and carriage superintendent, Great Western Railway, Bristol, who died at his residence, Newburn Lodge, Knowle Road, Bristol on April 27th last, has left estate valued at £2195 10s 11d including net personalty £1101 11s 2d.
12/12/1904
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Franklin
The funeral of Mr William Franklin, of Maycroft, Priory Road, Clifton, took place on Saturday afternoon at Redland Green churchyard. Mr Franklin was for the past 26 years a director of the London and South Western Bank, and also a director of the Bristol Tramways Company, and of Bartlett and Son, Limited.
11/02/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Davey
The late Mr Thomas Davey, of Bannerleigh, Leigh Woods, member of the firm of Franklyn, Davey, and Co., tobacco manufacturers, which business was absorbed by the Imperial Tobacco Company, Ltd., left estate of the value of about £334,000.
16/05/1904
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Freeman Norris
DEATH OF MR J. F. NORRIS
Information was received in Bristol yesterday of the death of Mr John Freeman Norris, which took place early yesterday morning at the residence of his daughter, Mrs Fawcett, wife of Colonel Fawcett, Scalesby Castle, Carlisle, in his 62nd year. Mr Norris, who was born at Bristol on the 15th of October, 1842, was the son of Mr Robert Norris, and Mrs Catherine Norris, his mother, was a daughter of the late Mr John Freeman Saunders. He received his education at private schools, and at University College London. He was called to the bar, and joined the Western Circuit in 1865, and in 1867 he married a daughter of the late Major-General Woodburn, C.B. For many years Mr Norris was a prominent figure in the life of Bristol. His career at the Bar was very successful, and his abilities as a pleader were such that his services were requisitioned in various parts of the country as well as on the particular circuit with which he was associated. In politics he was a staunch Liberal, and he was frequently to be found upon the platform of the Old Colston Hall advocating Liberal principles. Besides being an effective speaker he kept a watchful eye for any who attempted to interrupt the proceedings at these meetings, and if there was anything approaching disorder he quickly left the platform for the purpose of restoring quiet. He was president of the Anchor Society in 1872, and ensured the highest collection for many years with the exception of Mr Lewis Fry. He contested Wilton in the Liberal interest in 1877, but was unsuccessful, and he was again unsuccessful at Portsmouth in 1880. On the retirement of Sir W. H. Wills from East Bristol he addressed a meeting with the view to becoming a candidate for the division, and his name went before the Two Hundred and Fifty with those of Mr Hobhouse and Mr Fletcher, Mr Hobhouse being the candidate selected. He served for some years on the Bristol School Board. In 1882 he was made a Q.C., and the same year he was appointed a judge to the High Court of Calcutta, from which position he retired in 1895. Prior to departing to India he was entertained at dinner by the members of the St. Vincent Lodge of Freemasons at Bristol, of which he was a member. After his return he did not enjoy the best of health, and he rarely took part in public proceedings of any kind. The announcement of his death came, however, as a surprise, and will occasion regret among a large circle of friends.
25/06/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Robert Hall Warren
DEATH OF MR ROBERT HALL WARREN
We regret to announce the death of Mr Robert Hall Warren, which occurred yesterday, in his 80th year, at his residence, 9 Apsley Road, Clifton. Mr Hall Warren was widely known in Bristol, for he had been associated with it throughout his long life, and was the grandson of a noted preacher, the Rev. Robert Hall, who was at one time the minister at Broadmead Baptist Chapel, coming from Leicester to Bristol. In 1848 Mr Hall Warren became associated with his father's business, that of Messrs Leonard, Warren, and Co., iron merchants, of Bridge Street, and later he became a partner with Mr James Godwin, as Messrs Godwin, Warren, and Co., in Redcliff Street. The deceased gentleman married in 1865 Mary, second daughter of Mr Isaac Leonard, a surgeon in Bristol, and in 1887 he retired from business but he did not cut himself off entirely from city life, for he became a director of the Bristol and South Wales Railway Wagon Company, a position which he occupied until the present time. His interests covered a wide range, and he was associated with various institutions in the city. As a member of the committee of the Bristol Royal Infirmary for over 20 years he took a keen interest in that institution, and rendered invaluable aid in its management, acting at one time as the President for some months during a period when the presidency was in transition. He was a member of the committee of the Convalescent Home, first as a representative of the Infirmary and then as a representative of the city. Mr Hall Warren's interest in the world of art extended over a long period. He succeeded the late Mr D. C. A. Cave as the hon. secretary of the Bristol Fine Arts Academy, in Queen's Road, and when he resigned that position he was succeeded by Mr R. C. Tuckett. An antiquarian of considerable renown, Mr Hall Warren was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquarians, and, locally, he filled the office of secretary and treasurer of the Clifton Antiquarian Club, in the proceedings of which he took an active part, amongst the papers he read before the members being a notable one on Medieval Chapels. As a member Mr Hall Warren attended most of the meetings of the Gloucestershire Archaeological Society, and was able to contribute valuable information upon various matters. Singularly well acquainted with the history of the city and the lives of its famous men, Mr Hall Warren was frequently consulted upon matters relating thereto, and his knowledge of the Cathedral led to his being a valuable lay consultant and worker in connection with its restoration. By his advice much of the material of demolished parts of the fabric was incorporated in the restoration, parts of which he personally superintended. The sedilia was a particularly precious specimen of his wonderful knowledge and skill, and in fact up to the present time he was frequently attending to one matter or another at the Cathedral. Mr Hall Warren was a personal friend of the Bishop, the Dean, and the members of the Chapter, and they expressed their recognition of his valuable services by placing a resolution on their minutes indicative of their appreciation. As recently as last Sunday morning Mr Hall Warren attended Divine Service at the Cathedral, when the tribute was paid by the Bishop to the late Archdeacon Robeson. Amongst other organisations than those already mentioned, Mr Hall Warren was a member of the Social Book Club and the Bristol Commercial Rooms. The deceased gentleman's wife died five years ago, and he leaves three sons and four daughters.
24/11/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lady Emily Francis Smyth
DEATH OF LADY SMYTH
We deeply regret to record the death of Lady Smyth, who succumbed to an attack of pneumonia in London at five o'clock last evening.
Lady Emily Francis Smyth was the daughter of the Rev. Henry Hugh Way, of Alderbourne Manor, Gerrard's Cross, Bucks (formerly of Henbury, Gloucestershire). She first became the wife of Captain George Oldham Edwards, of Redland Court, which Mr Stone, the leader of the Quarter Session Bar, once in a trail at the Guildhall described as the most attractive mansion in Bristol. After the death of Captain Edwards, his widow became the wife of Sir J. H. Greville Smyth, Bart., of Ashton Court, and Heath House, Stapleton, the marriage taking place in April 1884, at St. George's, Hanover Square, by special licence. There was an unusually large attendance of friends of the bride and bridegroom. The bridegroom's best man was Major William Verney, and the officiating clergy were the Bishop of Bath and Wells, and the Rev Hugh Failoon, vicar of Long Ashton. There were many tokens of rejoicing, upwards of 300 tenants being invited to dinner, and the workpeople on the estate having a treat.
At the tenants' dinner the Rev. J. H. Way, brother of Lady Smyth, responding to the health of his sister, said her one great object would be to make her husband care for Long Ashton Court and all around it, and she felt if she could induce him to take a real interest and pleasure in his house the marriage would not have been in vain. He was sure they were bent upon helping Lady Smyth in her new and important position in that neighbourhood and county. He believed she would do her best to fulfil her position, and if ever she made any mistakes he asked them to believe she had endeavoured to do her best for her husband, for Long Ashton Court, Ashton village, and for the neighbourhood.
How the gratifying expressions of the Rev. J. H. Way were manifested in the married life of Sir Greville and Lady Smyth, seventeen years of happiness proved. The baronet died in September, 1901, and with his death the baronetcy became extinct. After his marriage very little of his time was spent at Ashton Court, mainly owing to the illness of Lady Smyth, which necessitated their wintering abroad.
After the death of Sir Greville, Lady Smyth interested herself greatly in matters which affected the inhabitants of Long Ashton and Bedminster. An addition to the open spaces of the city was provided by the presentation of the site of Dean Lane Colliery, five acres in extent, by Lady Smyth, which has been laid out as a children's playground, and is known as "Dame Emily Playground". The large hall formerly used for library purposes at the Bristol Museum was remodelled and completely fitted with museum cases by the generosity of Lady Smyth, who gave £2,000 for this purpose. In this room, known as the "Greville Smyth" Room, are lodged the fine collections of insects numbering over 29,000 specimens which were collected by the late baronet and presented by Lady Smyth in 1902, together with all other invertebrates possessed by the museum. In February 1913 a further room, which had by another act of generosity on the part of Lady Smyth been fitted out as the "Dame Emily Smyth" Room of Economic Biology and Botany, was opened by the donor.
Almhouses and a public hall at Long Ashton provided through the generosity of Lady Smyth have been duly appreciated. At Ashton Court are several objects which possess a charm for those of an antiquarian turn, and archaeologists were ever welcome to examine the valuable stores. When the Somerset Society made an incursion into the northern part of their county they were invited by Lady Smyth to inspect the records of the past at the Court, and the visit was highly enjoyed by the members and their friends.
Lady Smyth was a generous supporter of the Bristol General Hospital, and of many other institutions of a philanthropic character in Bristol. She also contributed liberally to the Church Extension movement. No appeal for a deserving cause was made in vain, and the death of her Lady will be a great loss to the city and neighbourhood.
11/04/1912
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edward Thomas Collins
DEATH OF MR E. T. COLLINS
We regret to announce the death of Mr Edward Thomas Collins which took place yesterday morning at his residence, Loddiswell, 17 Clyde Road, Redland. The deceased was the head of the firm of Messrs E. T. Collins and Son, chartered accountants, Baldwin Street and one of the representatives of Redland Ward at the City Council. Mr Collins had not been in the best of health for some time, and had been attended by Dr Shingleton Smith. A week ago he had a paralytic seizure, and, never regaining consciousness, he passed away at a quarter to seven yesterday morning. He had been in business between 30 and 40 years, and occupied offices in Broad Street for a number of years before going to the Baldwin Street premises. Prior to that time he was a partner in the firm of Messrs Hudson, Smith, Williams, and Co., of the Stock Exchange.
Mr Collins was for many years associated with the trade of the city through being secretary of the Bristol and West of England Merchants' Association whose headquarters were at his office in Broad Street. He thus was largely confined to the management of insolvent estates in the West of England and South Wales, and became an authority in respect to bankruptcy business. After his removal to Baldwin Street, Mr Collins was in partnership with his son at the Scottish Widows' Fund Buildings, and was able to find greater scope for his profession as a chartered accountant. He was connected with the Bristol Benevolent Institution, and for some time acted as secretary, though of late years his son, Mr Arthur Collins, who was his partner in the profession of accountant, became joint secretary with him. At the recent annual meeting regret was expressed at the absence of Mr E. T. Collins through ill-health. The deceased entered the City Council in 1902, and his knowledge of business affairs enabled him to render good service to the citizens. He was long a familiar figure at the church of St. Saviour, Woolcott Park, and manifested considerable interest in the services as well as any gatherings held in connection with the church.
For many years the deceased had been prominently identified with the Masonic body in Bristol, and was one of the few brethren who had attained to the End degree. He was the father of the Jerusalem Lodge, of which he was Master in 1886, and in 1890 he held the office of Provincial Grand Junior Warden. He was one of the founders of the St. Stephen Lodge, and has acted as steward for the Province on the Masonic Charities. He attained high rank also in Royal Arch and Mark Masonry. He was first Principal in the Beaufort Chapter in 1894, and afterwards held office in the Provincial Grand Chapter. He was Master of the Baldwyn Mark Lodge in 1895, and was Senior Grand Warden in Provincial Mark Lodge last year. In the Knight Templar Degree he held the distinguished position of Provincial Prior of Bristol and Gloucestershire, and was also Inspector General of the District of Baldwyn in which positions he succeeded the late Bro. William Proctor not many months ago.
The deceased leaves a widow and five children, all of whom are married.
17/03/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis Fox
THE LATE MR FRANCIS FOX, M. INST. C.E.
Many readers doubtless noticed in our issue of yesterday the announcement of the death at Roden, Teignmouth, of Mr Francis Fox, M. Inst. C.E. The deceased gentleman died at the age of 95, and his longevity has undoubtedly made some of the later generation forget the responsible professional work in which he was formerly engaged. Nearly sixty years have elapsed since he was appointed Chief Engineer to the Bristol and Exeter Railway; he was concerned in the important development connected with that undertaking, and has earned a place in local history owing to the part he played in planning the present Joint Station at Temple Meads, and also as the engineer consulted when the inconvenient old Drawbridge was removed and St. Augustine's fixed bridge constructed.
The connection of Mr Fox with the Bristol and Exeter Railway carries the thoughts back to a period when means for travelling were very different from those now enjoyed, yet at quite an early period the line to the West, for which he became Engineer, achieved notable records in quick running with its broad-gauge trains. The company had important locomotive works in Bristol, and shared in the scheme of which the Harbour Railway was the outcome, a link being made with the older lines by a tunnel under Redcliff Hill. Although in its day the Bristol and Exeter Railway was of no small importance in its relation to the travelling facilities between Bristol and the West, its station at Temple Meads was practically devoid of architectural pretensions. Brunel was not sufficiently impressed by the idea that there would be through traffic, and the arrangements of the several companies at this important centre were, from the modern point of view, very inconvenient. Bristol station in 1870 was described as "the most disgraceful, dangerous, difficult, and impracticable in Europe", and this statement was made at a meeting of the Great Western Company at a time when joint action was being considered for mitigating the great difficulties that existed.
Mr Francis Fox had a considerable share in the enterprise which gave Bristol the new Joint Station, but it has been stated in answer to critics that, in the opinion of Mr Fox himself, the long delay in putting his plans into operation made the accommodation in some respects seem out of date before it was available for public use. The down platform was opened for passengers on July 6th, 1874, and the entire station, costing nearly £300,000, was completed shortly afterwards. The constructional work had to be executed without interfering with the traffic. In the following year it was announced that the "Bristol and Exeter" was to be absorbed by the Great Western Company, and this amalgamation took place in 1876. The mere mention of these momentous departures suggests that the term during which Mr Fox was Chief Engineer to the Bristol and Exeter line was an eventful one. Not only the station buildings, but the divisional offices also, are the outcome of his designs, and from the up incline passers-by can see his monogram carved high up on the front of the buildings. The Cheddar Valley line was among the branches constructed while he was Chief Engineer, and on the Bristol and Exeter passing under the care of the Great Western Board, Mr Fox became a member of the staff of the controlling company. The station at Weston-super-Mare was built under his superintendence.
In 1866, when building lots in Leigh Woods were advertised, Mr Francis Fox became a pioneer in that now considerable residential district. Having secured a site from the Leigh Woods Land Company, he erected "Glenside". After residing there a few years, he came to the conclusion that a chalet of the Swiss type would harmonize with the surroundings, and erected the residence near the Suspension Bridge named "Alpenfels". He resided in Leigh Woods for twenty-seven years, and when Mr G. A. Wills generously intervened and secured for the public use Nightingale Valley and the remaining unoccupied land, Mr Fox contributed a couple of articles to the 'Western Daily Press' on reminiscences of the Woods and changes in forty years. This was preceded and followed by other charity contributions from his pen, and occasionally his ideas found expression in verse.
Mr Fox was a man whose enthusiasm stood the test of advanced age. He was a keen politician, and a warm supporter of the programme of the present Liberal Government.
28/04/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Gliddon Northam
WILL OF MR T. G. NORTHAM
Property of the total value of £125, 432 has been left by Mr Thomas Gliddon Northam, of Wick House, Durdham Park, Bristol, whose wholesale and retail grocery business consisted of three large establishments, including City Supply.
03/08/1903
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Joseph Griffith Swayne
It will be learnt with very considerable regret that Dr. Joseph Griffith Swayne, M.D., M.R.C.S., L.S.A., died at his residence, 74, Pembroke Road, Clifton, on Saturday. By the older generation of citizens the deceased gentleman will be remembered as one who achieved much distinction in the medical profession, and was regarded as a leading authority on the midwifery branches of the profession. He obtained two gold medals for medicine and midwifery in 1845, and for upwards of twenty years he was physician accoucheur to the Bristol General Hospital, of which institution he afterwards became consulting physician accoucheur. He was a fellow and vice-president of the Accoucheur Society, London, a fellow of the Obstetrical Society, and for some years was demonstrator of anatomy at the Bristol Medical School. His wide knowledge and study of the diseases of women brought him the honour of being elected president of this branch of the British Medical Association in 1894, and amongst the numerous appointments which he held at one time or another was that of Professor of Midwifery at the University College, Bristol. The late Dr Swayne was resident in Bristol at the time of the cholera epidemic, and his researches into the causes of the disease were extremely valuable. Some years ago he was entertained at dinner by the Bristol medical profession on the attainment of his 50th year of his teaching at the Bristol Medical School. In local artistic circles the deceased gentleman was also well-known, and at his residence are numerous examples of his skill in water-colour painting. The late Dr Swayne studied at the Bristol Medical School, Guy's Hospital, and for some years he practised at Clifton in conjunction with his father who subsequently retired to Pucklechurch, of which parish his grandfather held the incumbency for sixty years. Dr Swayne died at the age of 84.
31/07/1903
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. G. Crew
DEATH OF MR E. G. CREW
We regret to announce the death of Mr E. G. Crew, senior partner in the firm of Messrs Crew, Widgery, and Co., provision merchants, Victoria Street, Bristol. The deceased appeared in his usual health up to Monday, when he was taken ill, and on Wednesday his illness presented serious symptoms, and heart failure, so that he gradually sank and expired yesterday afternoon, as his residence in Clifton. Mr Crew, who was a native of Dorsetshire, may be described as a self-made man. He joined the firm of Messrs William Clark and Son, provision merchants, Bristol, in 1871. He founded the business of Crew, Widgery, and Co., twelve years later, and as provision importers they trade in Victoria Street, besides having a branch establishment at 36, Snow Hill, London. The deceased was a shrewd business man, and possessed far-seeing judgement. At one time he was a prominent member of the Liberal party, and until recently a Nonconformist. He was 53 years of age, and leaves a widow and a family.
09/09/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Henry Bryant
The late Mr William Henry Bryant, for many years a member of the staff of Messrs W. D. and H. O. Wills, who died at his residence, Blagdon House, Belvoir Road, Bristol, on the 19th July last, at the age of 54, left estate to the total value of £3,219 5s 1d.
09/10/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Edward Workman Pike
Probate of the will of Mr Edward Workman Pike, of Morley Villa, Bishopston, Bristol, retired licensed victualler, who died on July 12th, has been granted. The whole estate is returned at £3102 8s 1d.
29/10/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Herbert Thomas
Probate of the will of Mr Herbert Thomas J.P., who died at his residence, Ivor House, Durdham Park, Bristol, on 1 September, aged 83, has been granted. The amount of the estate is returned at £67,675 17s 3d.
09/11/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Henry Graham
Estate of the value of £34,184 5s 7d gross and £31272 17s 10d net, has been left by Mr Thomas Henry Graham, of 32 and 33, Broadmead, and Horfield Castle, Horfield, Bristol, pawnbroker, jeweller, and silversmith.
28/11/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Peter Downs
Mr Peter Downs, M.D., of Pensloe, 34, Waverley Road, Redland, Bristol, who died in June last, left property which is valued at £14,541 10s 2d.
28/11/1903
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Conrad William Finzel
The late Mr Conrad William Finzel, formerly head of the firm of Finzel and Sons, once the great sugar refiners of Bristol, who died at Westward Ho! on Aug 31 last, left estate valued at £1,692 4s 1d.
07/07/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Jacob Dove
DEATH OF MR JACOB DOVE
We regret to hear of the death, yesterday, of Mr Jacob Dove, of Hambrook House. Born at Darlington in the year 1826, where his father and uncle carried on the largest leather business in the North of England, he came to Bristol about fifty years ago, and in 1862 founded the business now conducted under the style of Dove and Willcox, from which he retired in 1885. His commercial aptitude was early developed, and few men were more capable of grasping large business principles, and of working out their application in the smallest details, whilst his original sayings and pithy axioms made him a most interesting fellow worker, and they are to this day often quoted by those who had the advantage of being trained by him. It may well be regretted that the unusual ability he undoubtedly possessed was never placed at the service of his fellow citizens; but public life had no charm for him, and he scrupulously avoided it. His leisure was largely spent in agricultural pursuits, and at one time he acquired renown as a breeder of pigs: indeed for several years his animals were amongst the most admired and the most successful prize-takers at the meetings of agricultural societies throughout the kingdom: whilst the demand for his stock came from the United States, the West Indies, France, Spain, Germany, and the Channel Islands. For many years he was associated with the Congregational Church at Whitehall, of which he was a deacon. He has now passed peacefully from our midst, leaving behind a large number of those who loved and revered him.
10/09/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Benjamin Perry
We regret to announce the death of Mr Benjamin Perry, which took place yesterday at his residence, Avonleigh, Stoke Bishop. Mr Perry was the head of the firm Messrs Benjamin Perry and Sons, Limited, warehousemen and railway agents, in Redcliff Street and Temple Street, but he retired from active business pursuits about two years ago because he suffered from aneurism of the heart. He got better subsequently, but about six weeks ago he had an attack of pneumonia which left him in a very weak condition, and he passed peacefully away early yesterday morning. In his early days Mr Perry was associated with the business carried on by Messrs Finzel at Counterslip, and he started business on his own account when he was about twenty years of age. He took a keen interest in all commercial matters, and, joining the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, he became an active member of the council of that body, and held the office of senior vice-president for two years from 1897, but the state of his health prevented his accepting the office of president, to which Mr Lindrea succeeded in his stead. On his retirement from the council of the Chamber of Commerce a resolution was passed expressing regret at the fact, and thanking him for the valuable services he had rendered. Mr Perry was elected a member of the City Council for Redcliff Ward in 1896, and he continued in that capacity until failing health necessitated his retirement in 1890. During his municipal career he served on the Docks Committee, and was an advocate of a progressive policy for the development of the port. Mr Perry was a great friend of the late Mr George Muller, and took a warm interest in the Ashley Down Orphanage, of which he was for some time one of the trustees. He attended the Bethesda Chapel in Great George Street and the Clifton Bethesda in Alma Road. He sometimes preached at one of these places, and for some time he conducted a Sunday school. Mr Perry, who was 67 years of age, leaves a widow, three daughters, and two sons.
25/11/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Robertson Garaway
FUNERAL OF THE LATE MR J. R. GARAWAY
The funeral of the late Mr James Robertson Garaway, a citizen who, although not prominently associated with civic affairs, was widely known and much esteemed in Bristol Nonconformist and musical circles, took place yesterday at Arno's Vale Cemetery. The deceased gentleman was for many years connected with the well-known firm of Messrs Garaway and Co., nurseryman and florists, but after retiring some time ago from business pursuits his interest was centred chiefly in his connection with Highbury Congregational Church, with which his family had been associated for a very long period. He was at one time a valued member of the choir, and his pleasure in music was also evinced by the active part he took in the welfare of the Orpheus Glee Society. The late Mr Garaway died at his residence, 42, Henleaze Avenue, on Thursday last, at the age of 67.
08/12/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Richards
FUNERAL OF MR T. RICHARDS
The funeral of Mr Thomas Richards, of Bushey Park, Knowle, the principal of the firm of Messrs T. Richards and Sons, iron founders, of St. Philip's, took place on Saturday. The late Mr Richards, who was 70 years of age, died suddenly on Wednesday from heart affection. He had been in business since 1876, and resided in Knowle.
28/08/1901
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr David Thomas May
WILL OF MR DAVID T. MAY
Probate of the will, dated 22nd August 1900, with a codicil of 9th October, 1900, of Mr David Thomas May, of 18, Woodstock Road, Redland, Bristol, and of Hutchins and May, wholesale boot and shoe manufacturers, Bristol, who died on the 22nd February last, and whose estate has been valued at £21,801 12s 4d gross has been granted.
19/10/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr A. H. Wansey
We regret to announce the death of Mr A. H. Wansey, which occurred yesterday, at his residence, Sambourne, Stoke Bishop, at the age of 74. The deceased gentleman had been unable to take an active part in his business as solicitor since July, owing to heart disease, which was the cause of death. Born at Warminster of a justly esteemed Nonconformist family, Mr Wansey came to Bristol early in life and became connected in legal work with the late Mr Henry Andrews Palmer, who will be remembered more especially for the interest which he took in the advancement of the arts and sciences in this city. He was admitted as a solicitor in 1850, and was appointed Registrar of the Tolzey Court (of which he was also deputy judge) in 1860. Mr Wansey, by taste and temperament, refrained from taking an active part in public and municipal life, and evoked himself with assiduity to the duties of the profession to which he belonged. He was a past president of the Bristol Incorporated Law Society, and was always highly respected and esteemed the members of the profession, as well as by all those outside the profession with whom he had been brought into contact. He long enjoyed the confidence and friendship of the late Sir Greville Smyth, for whom he acted as far back as 1853 in the celebrated Provis case. For many years past, at all events, Mr Wansey took no prominent part in politics, but in 1861 he was president of the Anchor Society. As is well known, the deceased was a faithful confessor of Unitarian Christianity. Years ago he was wont to worship in Lewin's Mead Meeting, but on the erection of the church in Oakfield Road, he became, and ever afterwards remained, one of its most consistent and generous supporters. He was most closely connected with the work of Lewin's Mead Domestic Mission, being the president of that association at the time of his regretted decease. Mr Wansey married Miss Welstead, the daughter of a former vicar of St. Jude's, and there were two sons and four daughters, but the son who should have succeeded to the business died in 1892.
22/11/1901
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr George S. Stowe
The executrix and executor of the will, dated January 29th, 1901, of Mr George Sully Stowe, of Stratford House, Tyndall's Park, Clifton, Bristol, formerly of the firm of G. S. Stowe and Company, of Cardiff and Penarth, shipbrokers, who died on the 19th July last, aged 76 years, and whose estate has been valued at £21,471 1s 1d are his widow and his two sons.
12/04/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. E. Parry
DEATH OF MR W. E. PARRY
We regret to announce the death of Mr W. E. Parry, solicitor, which took place yesterday morning at his residence, St. John's Road, Clifton. The deceased gentleman who was well known and much respected in the city, was the senior partner in the firm of Messrs Plummer, Parry, and Patchett, but for some months, owing to ill health, he had been unable to attend to business. The late Mr Parry served his articles under Mr Plummer, of the firm of King and Plummer, and on the dissolution of that partnership the deceased was taken into practice with Mr Plummer. Mr Parry was a Welshman, being a native of Denbigh, North Wales, and he was instrumental in resuscitating the Society of Ancient Britons, under the name of the Bristol Cambrian Society, for promoting friendly intercourse among the Welsh residents of Bristol, and for general benevolent purposes. He was for many years joint secretary of the society with the late Mr Owen Parry, but on the decease of that gentleman he assumed the sole responsibility of the office, and continued to discharge the duties up to the time of his death. The deceased was a prominent member of the Freemasons, and had attained to high office in the fraternity. He was a Past Master of the Jerusalem Lodge, and Past Master of the Powell Lodge, and he was also connected with the Province of Somerset, being Past Master of the Vale of Brislington Lodge, and also Provincial Grand Registrar of the Bristol Province. He held the degree of Knight Templar, and had attained other positions in the craft.
13/06/1900
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Heddon Camp
Probate of the will, which bears date 24th July, 1899, of Mr James Heddon Camp, of Sefton Villa, Ashgrove Road, Redland, and 42 and 43 Welsh Back, Bristol, wine merchants, who died on the 10th March last, has been granted. The estate has been valued at £16,722 14s 10d gross.
19/06/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Harvey
DEATH OF MR JOHN HARVEY
We regret to announce the death of Alderman John Harvey, which took place yesterday morning at his residence, Leigh Woods, after a lengthened illness. The deceased gentleman, though of a retiring disposition, will be much missed in local circles, as he was connected with many undertakings of a public character. He was the oldest son of the late Mr John Harvey, senior of the firm of Harvey and White, wine merchants, Denmark Street, Bristol, and at present carried on as John Harvey and Sons, Limited. He was born at Kidderminster on September 15th, 1832, so that he was 68 years of age. He was instructed privately, and received a sound commercial education, since his father intended him to take part in the Denmark Street establishment. In December, 1846, he entered the counting-house, and afterwards his brothers, Mr E. A. Harvey and Mr C. O. Harvey, also became initiated into the business, which is one of those large and important concerns that have done so much to enhance the commercial reputation of Bristol. To those who visit the establishment for the first time, it is a perfect revelation to discover the extent of the cellarage where, among other valuable stocks, he might have pointed out a consignment intended for St. James's Palace, for her majesty is among the customers of the firm. The exterior of the building, as seen from Denmark Street, is by no means imposing, though the interior contains many features of interest to an antiquary, and not many years ago a remarkably fine fire place in one of the rooms was revealed in the course of some structural alterations. Amidst these interesting surroundings the deceased became acquainted with the various branches of a wine merchant's business. Not that he gave his attention solely to the pursuits of trade, though his position as chairman of Harvey and Sons, Limited, rendered it necessary that he should devote considerable time to commerce. As his father lived to an advanced age he was long known as Mr John Harvey, jun., and he was thus described when, in 1875, he became president of the Grateful Society, his collection, £908, being the largest obtained in any one year
towards the funds of the society, with the exception of that made by Mr J. C. Wall, exactly 10 years previous (£941), since the record amount (£1,144) which Sir John Kerle Haberfield received in 1840. Mr Harvey was elected alderman in 1877, and became High Sheriff 1884-5. Though willing to render what service he could to
the city, the state of his health prevented his consenting to allow himself to be nominated for the mayoralty. He became member of the Municipal Charity Trustees in 1875, being one of the four Conservatives chosen that year; the others were Mr H. N. Abbot, Ald. F. F. Fox, and Mr A. F. Woodward. Perhaps no institution was more dear to the deceased gentleman than the Royal West of England Sanatorium, of which he was appointed president in 1890- 91-92. The structure forming a prominent object at Weston-super- Mare on the road to Uphill,found in him a large-hearted supporter, and he showed his interest in its welfare by his exertions when any prominent event in connection with the Sanatorium, such as the opening of the chapel, took place. The Industrial Home, at Knowle, was another institution that found in Mr Harvey a patron, and in 1891 his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh honoured him by accepting his invitation to conduct Mr George Riseley's band at a concert held in the Colston Hall for the benefit of that home, and at its close Mr Harvey entertained the Duke of Beaufort, and others at the Colston Hall. The Mayor and Corporation of Bristol afterwards presented his Royal Highness with the freedom of the city, this being the only occasion during the present reign on which a member of the Royal Family has passed a night in night. Music and its surroundings seemed to possess an especial attraction for Mr Harvey; he not only gave valuable support to the triennial festivals in the city, but also for some years acted as local honorary secretary in the movement by which the associated boards of the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music conduct examinations. When the certificates were forwarded from headquarters he convened a gathering, which the Society of Merchants allowed to be held in their hall, in order to distribute the awards to the many young persons of the Bristol centre who were assembled to receive them. The present Dean of Chicester (the Very Rev. R. W. Randall) found in Mr Harvey, who was a staunch churchman, a valuable supporter at the Church of All Saints, Pembroke Road. When the Church of St. Mary, Leigh Woods, was projected, Mr Harvey, as a resident in that romantic locality, naturally assisted in the erection. He used to read the lessons at the services, and his daughter's marriage was the first celebration in the church.
26/01/1899
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Mogg
Estate of Mr Henry Mogg, retired solicitor, who died on the 25th March, 1898, at Upper Belgrave Road, has been sworn at £152,000.
15/02/1899
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir Cecil Leopold Miles
Sir Cecil Leopold Miles, of Leigh Court, Bristol, third baronet, who died on 25th October last, aged 25 years, has left estate of gross value £127, 860 16s 6d.
14/03/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Buchanan Ker
We regret to announce the death of Mr Charles Buchanan Ker, which occurred somewhat suddenly, yesterday, at his residence, 6 Royal Park, Clifton. During the last twelve months Mr Ker had been an invalid, suffering from an internal complaint, and an operation was found necessary. From the effects of this he sank, and died yesterday. Although Mr Ker spent the greater part of his life in India, being a civil engineer on the Great Indian Peninsular Railway, he resided in Clifton for the last twelve or thirteen years, interesting himself greatly in work in connection with Clifton Parish Church. In addition to being a secretary for the district of the Church Missionary Society, he took an active part in the Bristol Medical Mission, and for some years he supported a mission at Lawrence Hill, known as Factory Street Mission. The deceased gentleman also devoted his energies to the work of the Young Men's Christian Association and the Vigilance Committee. He was born in Grenock in 1826, of Scotch parents, although his parents were well known in Clifton, where they resided for some time, and his grandfather was the celebrated Dr Claudius Buchanan. In the early portion of his career he came in contact with several distinguished men, among whom were George and Robert Stephenson and Sir Charles Fox, and for some time he worked under Mr Brassey, the father of the present Lord Brassey. Through ill-health, Mr Ker was compelled to retire rather early in life from his work in India, and the same cause prevented his accepting an exceedingly lucrative appointment that was offered him there a short time later.
21/04/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Dole
DEATH OF MR JAMES DOLE
It will be learnt with deep regret that Mr James Dole expired at his residence, Redland House, Durdham Park, yesterday morning. The sad news came as a great surprise to many of the deceased gentleman's friends, for few were ware that he had been indisposed. Little more than a week ago Mr Dole was taken ill, and within a few days, erysipelas set in. Still there appeared to be little cause for anxiety until complications set in, and notwithstanding unceasing medical attention the illness terminated fatally yesterday morning. Mr Dole had for many years been associated with commercial enterprises in Bristol, and his geniality and integrity of character gained for him many friends. At one time the deceased gentleman took an active interest in municipal matters, and as member for South St. Philip's he had the opportunity of bringing his business ability to bear upon the affairs of the city. Some years ago, however, he retired from municipal work and devoted his time to other matters. Amongst the many enterprises with which Mr Dole's name will be associated is the development of the now important district surrounding the Redland High School for Girls. This, it will be remembered, was formerly the estate of the late Mr G. Edwards, but when at the death of Mr Edwards the property came into the market Mr Dole purchased a considerable portion, which has since been built upon. The deceased gentleman carried on for many years a successful bacon curing business in West Street. He married Miss Stevens, daughter of Mr William Stevens, wine and spirit merchant. The deceased gentleman had a taste for the fine arts, and was possessed of a large and valuable collection of pictures, some of which were of national reputation, and many of them were shown at the Industrial Exhibition on the Open Space some years ago. Mr Dole was a member of the Fine Arts Academy Committee; he was also a director of Usher's Brewery, Trowbridge.
20/06/1899
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John McCurrich
Mr John McCurrich, Bristol docks engineer, has left gross estate valued at £6000.
17/07/1899
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Evans
Mr James Evans, of Stokecliffe, Dartmouth, and formerly of Little Sneyd, Stoke Bishop, and of the firm of Evans and Son, 30 Bridge Street, wholesale wine and spirit merchants, who died on the 12th March last aged 80 years, left personalty of the net value of £49,015 5s 9d.
11/08/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Maurice Reynolds
Yesterday the news was received in Bristol of the sudden death at Woolacombe, of Mr Maurice Reynolds, managing director of the Bristol United Breweries Company. Mr Reynolds, who was visiting at Woolacombe with his family, was seized yesterday morning, while on Woolacombe Sands, with an attack of cardiac syncope, to which he unfortunately succumbed. The sad intelligence of his sudden death will be received with regret by a large circle of friends, and deep sympathy will be felt for his wife and family in their bereavement. The deceased gentleman had been managing director of the Bristol United Breweries Company since the amalgamation of several local breweries some ten or eleven years ago. Previous to this he had conducted a brewing business of his own at Bedminster, and when the amalgamation of Lockley's Brewery, Bowley and Bristow's, Bishop and Batt's, and his own took place, he joined the board of directors as managing director. His business capacity was apparent in his management of the concern under his charge, and his genial disposition gained him many friends.
15/12/1899
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Maurice Reynolds
Probate of the will dated June 4th, 1891, of Mr Maurice Reynolds, of 67, Pembroke Road, Clifton, managing director of the Bristol United Breweries Ltd, and formerly of Bedminster, brewer, who died at Woolacombe, has left estate valued at £33,968 7s 6d.
04/06/1914
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Judge James Valentine Austin
HIS HONOUR JUDGE AUSTIN
FATAL END TO LONG ILLNESS
HIS MANY SIDED PUBLIC SERVICE
It is with great regret we have to announce the death of his Honour, Judge Austin, a man who had numerous friends, and one who has rendered such many sided service to the public that the termination of his career may be regarded as a national loss. Bristolians knew him best as a County Court judge, and one who took a warm interest in social questions, but in the industrial world his reputation for fair mindedness and ability led to his services being utilised to an extent that probably few were aware in the settlement of difficult labour questions that affected large masses of men, particularly those connected with railways. It is only when the variety of his work is understood that the far reaching extent of his influence can be gauged and the loss caused by his decease appreciated.
James Valentine Austin was born in a London Rectory in 1850. His father, the late Rev. John Valentine Austin, was rector of St. Nicholas Cole Abbey, in the City, and his boy was sent to the Grammar School at Tavistock, Devon, to receive the first part of his education. He passed on to Trinity College, Oxford, where in 1872, he graduated. In 1876, he was called to the Bar at the Inner Temple, and soon afterwards married the daughter of the Rev Lorimer, then Principal of the English Presbyterian Church. As to his professional career as a barrister, we cannot do better than quote from the biography published over twenty years ago by the 'Law Gazette'. The writer says that "Judge Austin started without any family influence to smooth his early path, but fortune was far from being unkind to him. He began his professional career by 'devilling' for Mr Justice Wright to whose appreciation of his labours he owes not a little of his success. About four years after he donned his wig and gown he was appointed Secretary to the Bribery Commission held at Canterbury, the Commissioners being Mr Arthur Charles, Q.C., Mr A. Dicey, and Mr R. S. Wright, and inasmuch as his duties bought him into close contact with men of such eminence and influence, his position was of considerable service to him in making a good start at the bar. For some ten years prior to his appointment as a County Court judge, Mr Austin enjoyed an excellent practice, both in London and on the Western Circuit. He was particularly successful at the Bristol Assize, and it was not as a stranger, therefore, that he entered the gates of the city in which he now administers the law of the land. Mr Austin was not a barrister whose name was known to the public. As the sweetest flowers blossom in the shade so the best lawyers at the bar are often untouched by the glowing rays of publicity. Their work lies away from the vulgar path of sensationalism wherein the public like to tred. It was as a thoroughly capable lawyer, and not as an advocate with a tongue to sway the hearts of jurymen, that Judge Austin made his mark at the bar, and it was as a commercial lawyer perhaps, that he was chiefly known in the circles where the proper measure of a barrister is always taken. For in the Temple Mr Austin was extremely well known and highly respected. His courtesy and geniality made him numerous friends, some of whom counted it one of their best privileges in the Temple to smoke a pipe with him in his comfortable chamber in Paper Buildings. The manner in which his Honour has discharged his judicial duties has entirely justified his promotion. His popularity in Bristol affords an ample testimonial to his powers as a judge and his qualities as a man. He disposes of the cases brought before him with a rapidity which delights the litigants and practitioners in his court; the soundness of his decisions is unquestionable, and the courtesy with which he treats lawyers and lay men alike adds to the dignity of his office, and increases respect for the law".
At the time that interesting appreciation was published in the legal journal, Mr Austin had not long presided over the Bristol County Court. A vacancy had arisen owing to the death of Mr Metcalfe, Q.C., and Lord Herschell selected Mr Austin for the post. He was the first County Court judge appointed by this Lord Chancellor who was (according to the 'Law Gazette') "cordially congratulated at the time upon the excellent beginning he had made. That the appointment was not a political one was as clear as crystal, because Mr Austin's political views were not in harmony with Lord Herschell's. All his life he had been a Conservative; but he had never taken an active part in the political world. He was content to record his vote according to his conscience, whenever it was required of him, and to devote his time and energy to his practice". The good impression formed early in his judicial career has been amply justified by fuller experience. For about 21 years his Honour has occupied this onerous position, and has on the appointed days sat also in the courts at Weston-super-Mare, Wells, and Axbridge, and there can be no questioning the fact that he was a good judge. Sir Thomas Bucknill is stated to have regarded him as the finest County Court judge in the country, and those who came before him were warm in their tributes. His decisions on points of law were not often appealed against, and were generally upheld when this occurred. With a knowledge of the law, he combined patience, good temper, sound common sense, and strong human sympathy. There are few position which enable a public man to see more of human nature than that of County Court Judge. The judgement summonses of a single week would reveal to a novice much with regard to members of the community to whom appeals of creditors, legal processes, and the avoidance of 'imprisonment for debt' (or more correctly for disobeying the order of the Court) are part of the routine of daily life. It is important to realise the distinction drawn in this sentence because it imposes much responsibility upon a County Court judge.He has to decide whether non-payment is due to misfortune or wilfulness, whether in fact there is such ability to meet at least an instalment of the liability that failure to do so merits detention for several weeks in one of His Majesty's prisons. Judge Austin had certain unwritten rules for his own guidance in these matters, and his humanitarian spirit, coupled with his experience of debtors and litigants, has been of enormous value in the large class of cases that merely find publicity in a newspaper, and that are in the ordinary course of the Court's business disposed of with a rapidity astonishing - almost bewildering - to a visitor unused to the procedure.
Judge Austin was also a Justice of the Peace for Bristol and for Somerset. His judicial qualities and the confidence he won from men in business and industrial circles led to his services being widely utilised in other directions. He had for many years acted as arbitrator to the Board of Trade in Labour and other disputes, and was one of the chairmen's panel in the Courts of Conciliation arranged by the Board of Trade. He ranked as an independent chairman of the Conciliation Boards connected with many great railway undertakings viz. the Great Western, the London and South Western, the Great Northern, and Metropolitan District Railway, the Somerset and Dorset, the Taff Vale, the Rhymney, and Cardiff Railway, and the Port Talbot Railway and Dock. He was joint arbitrator in the North Somerset coalfield under the Minimum Wages Board and chairman of the Advisory Committee for the South West of England for the purpose of Labour Exchanges. These many duties at times involved detailed and difficult investigations in the process of arriving at a settlement of an industrial difference, and Judge Austin will be missed in this important sphere as well as in that which brought him more prominently in view of the public.
He held aloof from political associations and on the only occasion when he accepted the presidency of a Colston Society it was that of the Grateful organisation in 1897-1898. He had on a number of occasions, however, expressed his views on social problems in addresses to Men's Brotherhoods and elsewhere.
Judge Austin as most people know was a great lover of animals, dogs in particular. His sympathies went out unreservedly to the poor canine waifs of the city, and for many years past Mr Edward T. Parker has found in him a staunch supporter of the institution established more than 25 years ago for lost and starving dogs. Again and again Judge Austin has pleaded eloquently for this good work and his loss will be a severe blow to the institution. Judge Austin loved the companionship of old and faithful canine friends. Rarely in his walks was he unaccompanied by a dog. For many years a spaniel was his constant companion, and a story is told of t is old dog which we give with no attempt at explanation. Some while after the dog had died Judge Austin visited a house at Clifton. For a while he sat talking to the lady of the house. After his departure a visitor inquired who the gentleman with the dog was. "Judge Austin, but he did not have a dog with him," was the reply. "But he had," was the rejoinder," it was a spaniel," and the lady, who was a visitor to the house from Scotland, and had never previously met Judge Austin proceeded to describe in detail the old spaniel which had died and had been buried some time previously. The story was told by Mr Roger Austin on the authority of his father at a public dinner in Bristol. Judge Austin although not personally interested in prize dogs, was a regular visitor to shows held in Bristol, and in the course of a speech at a gathering of the Bristol and West of England Bull Dog Club he greatly encouraged the members by his advocacy of the hobby. He was chairman and treasurer of the Clifton Zoological Gardens Society.
Judge Austin was one of those selected by the Bristol University for the Hon. I.L.D. degree, and he was a member of the Court of that institution. Few who were present at that momentous meeting held on November 14th, 1913, will readily forget the speech in which, dealing with the matter as an impartial outsider, he surveyed the situation which had given rise to such an acrimonious controversy. It was a masterly address, eminently judicial in tone, and it was felt that it did much to clear the air and influence the decision then arrived at. He was interested in sport, although not a very active participant. He used to enjoy a little shooting; cyclists formerly met him taking exercise on his "wheel", and more recently he had found recreation as a member of the Henbury Golf Club.
Sympathy was felt when, about Christmas, it was heard that his Honour had been laid aside. His illness proved to be serious, and Mr Beresford was appointed to act as his deputy in the County Court. On Monday it was reported that his condition was critical and Mr Austin passed away at 9.30 yesterday morning at his residence 5, Worcester Road, Clifton, in his 64th year. He left a widow, three sons, and a daughter - Mr Roger Austin, high bailiff of the Bristol County Court; Mr L. J. Austin, F.R.C.S., attached to the London Hospital; Miss Austin; and Mr A. C. Austin, an engineer occupying a professional position in India.
27/04/1898
Western Daily Press
Will
Rev Clement Dawsonne Strong
Probate of the will which bears the date 25th June, 1896, of the Rev. Clement Dawsonne Strong, of Clifton, formerly vicar of All Saints', Clifton, who died on the 8th March last, aged 92 years, leaving personal estate of the value of £13,008 19s 1d has been granted.
03/06/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Rudman
DEATH OF MR JAMES RUDMAN
We regret to record the death of Mr James Rudman, which occurred after very short illness, at his residence, Path Head, 3, Apsley Road, Clifton, yesterday afternoon. The deceased gentleman had been in good health up to Sunday last, on the morning of which day he attended Divine service at Emmanuel Church, where he had been rector's warden for six years. Later in the day Mr Rudman complained of being unwell, and Dr Shingleton Smith and Mr Harsant were called in. His condition became worse, and yesterday morning his condition was so critical that Dr Bertram Rogers and Dr J. Swain were called in. An operation was performed by Mr Harsant and though the deceased rallied for a time he subsequently had a relapse, and died soon after three o'clock. Deceased was 49 years of age, and the cause of death was peritonitis. He was head of the firm of Messrs James Rudman, of the oil and colour works at Frome Bridge, St. Philip's. Deceased, who would shortly have celebrated his silver wedding, leaves four children (three sons and a daughter), the eldest son having recently been associated with his father in the business. For a number of years deceased was connected with the 38th (2nd Gloucestershire) Volunteer Battalion R.E., entering the regiment with a commission about 18 years ago, almost immediately afterwards being promoted captain. In May, 1891, he was gazetted major, being at the time of his death senior major of the Engineers. He was a member of the executive committee of the Engineers, and was one of the first from this district to attend the Engineering School at Chatham. He was a member of the Liberal club, and also of the present club committee. Whilst vicar's warden at Emmanuel, the deceased took great interest in the work associated with the building of the new parish room. He was a member of the Anchor Society, and at the last election was asked to become a candidate for municipal honours; pressure of business and ill health necessitated a refusal, but it was understood that at a future election he would become a candidate. Deceased, who belonged to a Bristol family, married a daughter of Capt. Rider, and at the time of his death he was president of the Bristol Commercial Rooms, of which he had been for a long time member. Mr Rudman was a member of the council of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce from the year 1884 to 1892, when he took a very active part in the proceedings of the Chamber, and from the period of his election down to this last year he annually contributed the valuable trade reviews upon oils and petroleum, which appeared in the Chamber's reports from year to year.
22/06/1898
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Henry Gribble
Probate of the will of Mr Henry Gribble, of Merriedale, Pembroke Road, Clifton, and of the firm of Gribble, Gould, Smith, and Gribble, of Bristol, solicitor, who died on the 5th April last, aged 74 years has been granted at £14, 119 2s 6d.
22/08/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Somerton
DEATH OF MR GEORGE SOMERTON
The announcement of the death of Mr George Somerton will be read with great regret by all Bristolians, for although he had not taken a great part in public life he was personally well-known and universally respected in this city. Mr Somerton was the son of Mr William Henry Somerton, the historian of the Bristol riots, and the proprietor of the 'Bristol Mercury'. He and his brother Charles (who was about eight years his senior) succeeded to the management of the Mercury on the retirement of their father in 1857, and having associated themselves with Mr John Latimer as editor, they continued to publish that journal until about fifteen years ago when they retired. Recently Mr George Somerton acted as secretary to the Bristol and Clifton Zoological Society, and took great interest in the gardens, near to which he resided. He married many years ago the daughter of Archdeacon Williams. Mrs Somerton died shortly after the marriage. Mr Somerton during the time he was co-proprietor of the Mercury, devoted himself to the financial part of the business, his brother Charles taking the literary management. All who had an opportunity of personal association with Mr Somerton will remember that under his retiring habits there was a very kindly disposition. He combined with great consideration for others a bearing that was as impressive as it was modest. Within his own circle, which was latterly not a large one, Mr Somerton will be greatly missed, and although he withdrew so many years ago from business in which he was so long and honourably engaged, those who knew him best still freshly remember his urbanity, and the many excellent qualities which give him so strong a claim on their esteem.
24/08/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick Ashmead
DEATH OF MR FREDERICK ASHMEAD
Mr Frederick Ashmead, who was for many years engineer to the Bristol Sanitary Authority, died yesterday morning at Clifton, at the age of 73. He had been suffering for some time from an internal ailment, but it was not until a fortnight ago that his condition became serious. Deceased was the second son of the late Mr G. C. Ashmead, surveyor of Bristol. He was articled to Mr Underwood, architect, of Bristol, and was afterwards on the engineering staff of the South Wales Railway, which has since been taken over by the Great Western Railway, and was under Mr I. K. Brunell, being stationed at Newport. He was subsequently appointed resident engineer during the construction of the portion of the line between Bridgend and Neath. In 1851 he returned to Bristol and became assistant to the late Mr Armstrong, who was surveyor to the Paving Commissioners, which body afterwards became the Local Board of Health and subsequently the Sanitary Authority. Under this Authority Mr Ashmead held the position of engineer for many years, and he contributed papers on sanitary engineering questions at conferences held in Bristol and elsewhere. On his retirement a few years ago from the position of borough engineer (in which he was succeeded by Mr T. H. Yabbcom), Mr Ashmead was appointed consulting engineer to the Sanitary Authority, which appointment he retained to the last. Mr Ashmead married a daughter of the late Mr George Dodds, of Neath, and she predeceased him by only ten days.
22/02/1897
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr J. C. Wall
DEATH OF MR J. C. WALL
We regret to announce the death of Mr J. C. Wall, a gentleman who has been actively associated with the business life of Bristol for quite half a century, and whose name has long been familiar in the West of England in connection with his association with the Bristol and Exeter Railway, and subsequently with the Great Western Railway Company, of which he was agent. Mr Wall was the eldest son of the late Mr James Wall, of Worcester, who was engaged in a large way of business as a carrier by water. Mr J. C. Wall came to Bristol at an early age, and was appointed general manager of the Bristol and Exeter Railway, which position he continued until the amalgamation of that line with the undertaking of the Great Western Railway in 1876, since which time he has acted as agent of the latter company in Bristol. For many years, and until quite recently, Mr Wall occupied a seat on the aldermanic bench in the Bristol Town Council, where his business tact and experience were known and valued. He rarely made speeches, was brief to the point, and always had attentive auditors. He was also a magistrate of the city and county of Bristol. His death, at the age of 73, is due to pneumonia, which developed since Monday last, when he was sufficiently well to be out. Mr Wall, although so intimately concerned with modern commerce, was instinctively "a gentleman of the old school": bluff in style, full of sound common sense, genial in manner, and kindly of heart.
20/01/1897
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Bolton
We regret to announce the death of Mr James Bolton, which took place yesterday morning at his residence, Charlotte Street, Park Street. Mr Bolton, who was 74 years of age, was born in London, and his career has been of a remarkably varied description. Coming to Bristol in the year 1843, he started business at the top of Park Street, in the manufactory of mineral waters, in connection with which he achieved great success. He then obtained the Hotwell House which at that time had lost much of its previous popularity. He added a swimming bath to the attractions of that house, and succeeded in making it a pleasant resort in Bristol. It was found necessary to remove the Hotwell House for the improvement of the river, and Mr Bolton's energies next found an outlet in Ceylon, where he became manager of the Hultsdorf Mills Company, a large cocoa-nut fibre manufactory. His success in connection with this enterprise was very marked, and when the business was transferred his efforts were recognised by the presentation of a silver service. Returning to Bristol he assumed the management of a large sugar refinery in Castle Street, which he developed in an extraordinary manner. This branch of the business, however, did not retain Mr Bolton's services permanently, and he subsequently went to Swansea, and became the head of a large iron foundry. In later years it will be remembered that Mr Bolton turned his attention to the fine arts, and opened a business in Park Street, from which he quite recently retired. He always took a great interest in the affairs of Bristol, and was at one time a director of the Royal Hotel Company, College Green, where he initiated some valuable improvements, including a laundry, which is one of the most successful features of the establishment. He also took a great interest in the Suspension Bridge, and was one of the first to cross before the structure was absolutely safe; in fact the feat formed at the time a subject of considerable comment. Two or three months ago letters appeared in this journal from Mr Bolton directing attention to the part which he had played about a quarter of a century before in suggesting to the Great Western Railway the desirability of reducing the second-class fares, a proposal the company a short time ago gave effect. As a traveller Mr Bolton had seen a good many parts of the world, having visited America, Italy, the Mediterranean etc., and was exceedingly fond of travel as a recreation. Up to his latest days the deceased gentleman gave close attention to the affairs of this city, and only the night before his death conversed with much zest with an intimate friend on the subject of the proposed art gallery for Bristol. He was one of the most energetic and genial of men, and his death is much regretted by a large circle of friends. His wife and daughter predeceased him.
27/11/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis Tagart
DEATH OF MR FRANCIS TAGART
Death has been busy of late amongst notable men in the city and neighbourhood of Bristol, and to-day we have to record, with deep regret, the decease of Mr Francis Tagart, J.P., which took place on Saturday, at his residence, Old Sneed Park, Stoke Bishop. Mr Tagart was not a native of Bristol, but he had resided at Old Sneed for more than half a century, and by his geniality and kindliness of nature he endeared himself to all with whom he came into contact.
Mr Francis Tagart was born on December 1st, 1817, and had therefore nearly completed his 94th year. He was very active for his age, and within the past few weeks he was in Bristol attending a meeting called by the Lord Mayor at the Council House. He was the son of Mr William Tagart, by Amy, eldest daughter of Nicholas Lethy. He married in 1848 Miss Isabella Firmin Ougley, youngest daughter of Captain Ougley, born in 1852, who married in 1875 Miss Emily, the youngest daughter of Mr James Rayner, and who died in 1904. Mr Tagart was formerly a London merchant, and his business brought him into contact with many commercial men resident in other countries. In the course of his long life he travelled extensively, and was much in the United States, which were very different in some respects, when he first became acquainted with American life, to what they are at the present day. He saw several large towns develop and some important towns have their commencement. He went to the spot which became the city of Chicago prior to the first city being built, so that he could speak of it before it was rebuilt after the devastating fire which reduced the original to ruins. He was a Fellow of the Linnean Society as well as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
Always ready to promote any scheme for the furtherance of Bristol trade, Mr Tagart became one of the promoters of Avonmouth Dock, and regarded with satisfaction its development and subsequent purchase by the Bristol Corporation. An undertaking in which he was largely interested was the Grand Junction Water Company, of which he was director until the Government converted the control into a trust. He was also connected with the Surrey Dock Company, having been thrice chosen chairman of the board. Mr Tagart was a lieutenant for the City of London. He was one of the oldest members of the Reform Club, and his residence in the metropolis was at Queen's Gate. In politics he was an active Liberal, and on one occasion meditated becoming a candidate for a seat in Parliament. In the early 'sixties of the last century he, in company with Mr E. A. Freeman, the historian, came forward for East Somerset, which was represented by Sir William Miles and Mr Knatchbull. His colleague had made two efforts to represent other constituencies, though with no effect. In 1857 he came forward at Cardiff, and in 1859 at Wallingford, but on both occasions was too late in the field, and retired without going to the poll. With Mr Tagart Mr Freeman addressed meetings in Somerset, but neither of them proceeded with the contest.
As a magistrate for the county of Gloucester Mr Tagart was very attentive to his duties at Lawford's Gate Petty Sessions, so that his figure on the Bench became one of the most familiar of any justice of the division. His liberality was considerable, and his invariable practice when winter approached was to forward to Messrs Latcham and Montague (the clerks) a cheque for the poor box. Although not so energetic in commercial matters towards the close of his career as in former years, he remained in touch with business undertakings. He lost no opportunity of stating that his business connections were entirely in London, and not in Bristol. When the scheme was propounded for extending the boundaries of this city so that Stoke Bishop should be included in the limits of Bristol, he was an energetic opponent, and attended the Committee Room at Westminster to protest against becoming a Bristol citizen. He said that his associations were with London and he had nothing to do with Bristol. He was delighted with the visit of the members of the Associated Chambers of Commerce to our city to hold their Congress, in July, 1906, and entertained them at a garden party at Old Sneed Park. Many persons will have pleasant recollections of the opportunities afforded them of inspecting his beautiful grounds, which, when they looked their loveliest, were thrown open to the public. He occasionally allowed the use of his grounds for the Exhibitions of the West Gloucestershire Farmers' Club, and he treated the Bristol telegraph boys there. Mr Tagart was well known as a sportsman, and for many years he hunted regularly with the Duke of Beaufort's hounds as well as with Lord Fitzhardinge's pack.
He took a keen interest in matters connected with the locality in which he resided. Some years ago he was a prominent figure at the inauguration of a drinking fountain in the neighbourhood, when a presentation was made to Canon Alford upon his resigning the position of vicar of St. Mary Magadalene, Stoke Bishop, after an association of 15 years with the parish, Mr Tagart presiding over the gathering at the Village Hall. In the course of his opening speech, he said that personally he could make the confession that in a time of great trial and tribulation he had found their vicar a source of great comfort and consolation. It was with pleasure Mr Tagart, on behalf of the congregation, handed Canon Alford a cheque for £200 and a handsome silver tray, suitably inscribed.
Some readers may recollect a period in which Mr Tagart figured in a movement in opposition to the late Mr James Inskip. In the year 1885 there was a contention locally respecting the performance of a Sunday band. The band played upon Durdham Down, and attracted a great many people, though by no means the 10,000 or 20,000 claimed in some of the correspondence which found its way into the newspapers. Mr Francis Tagart became the champion of the musicians, and published, "A Plea for the Sunday Band". This brought out a pamphlet by Mr Inskip under the title, "Mr Tagart's Test Tested, written by Mr James Inskip". The controversy waxed exceedingly warm, and in one or two instances pressure was attempted to be brought upon citizens who aided the musical movement, so that they were threatened with the loss of their situations in the event of continuing to give their support. Mr Tagart maintained that the public had a right, as the owners of Durdham Down, to have a band performance on Sundays if they chose, and the attempt to put down the band was an attempt to nullify an Act of Parliament. Mr Inskip rejoined that the legitimate purpose of bye-laws would be to prohibit the appropriation of civic property for Sunday amusement.
Mr Tagart was courteous and genial as he was active in respect to any movements in which he deeply sympathised, and he was as unaffected as he was popular, not merely among a large circle of personal friends, but also with the general public, who knew his liberality, and appreciated warmly his endeavours to promote the welfare of the masses. A proof of his generous nature was afforded in September, 1909, when the president of the Infirmary (Sir George White, Bart.) acknowledge the receipt of £1,000 from Mr Tagart towards defraying the debt of £3,500 upon that institution, in order to secure the £1,000 conditionally offered by Mr Samuel White to the committee.
The news of the death of Mr Tagart was received with deep regret at Westbury-on-Trym (writes our correspondent), especially among the members of the local Horticultural Society, of which he was the first and only president. Himself a member of the Linnean Society, the deceased gentleman took a deep interest in everything pertaining to horticulture, and from the inception of the local Flower Show, he also emphasized the desirability of offering special encouragement to those who exhibited in the cottages and allotments sections. His handsome subscription to the fund enabled the committee to offer very substantial prizes, and thus always secure a large number of entries. Until two years ago Mr Tagart almost invariably presided at the annual luncheon in connection with the society, and the mental and physical vigour he displayed on those occasions - even in his ninetieth year - was the admiration of all who were present. On the occasion of the last two shows, Sir Herbert Ashman took the place of the president at the luncheon, but Mr Tagart visited the show later in the afternoon, even in August last. At times of special importance too, Mr Tagart was a well-known figure in the Village Hall, and at various outdoor functions on behalf of charitable objects.
20/07/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr John Beddoe
DEATH OF DR BEDDOE
A DISTINGUISHED SCIENTIST
SPECIAL MEMOIR
We regret to have to announce the death, which occurred yesterday at his residence, the Chantry, Bradford-on-Avon, of Dr Beddoe, whose attainments as a physician and scientist brought him into contact with the foremost men of the day.
John Beddoe was born on September 21st, 1826, at Bewdley in Staffordshire. His ancestors rendered their names Beddoe or Beddoes indifferently, and he came of an old Shropshire yeoman stock. His father was engaged in various businesses, and the subject of this biography was the second of eight children. One of the remarkable things about him is that he lived to a vigorous old age. If in his youth he did not suffer from all the maladies that flesh is heir to, he, at least, had a far larger share than falls to the lot of the average mortal. He was delicate as a child: and when ten years old suffered from a very severe attack of continued fever - whether typhus or typhoid he could not tell; rheumatic fever, typhoid, and then dysentery attacked him in his schoolboy days, and later he developed lung and heart trouble. Yet this was the man who at 84 presented the appearance of vigorous old age and wrote with a cheeriness and almost an exuberance which many a young man might envy the recollections of a long and active life. He was a thoughtful lad, and sometimes astonished his seniors by his unexpected questions on unusual subjects.
FROM LAW TO MEDICINE
There being an idea of his receiving training to fit him for a conveyancing barrister, he about 1845, entered a solicitor's office, but before he had gone very far in his legal work events occurred which diverted him from law to medicine. He had interested himself in physiological chemistry, and hit upon a method in advance of existing practice for estimating the relative value of nutriments. A Dr. Robertson, of Buxton, had recently published a book upon diet, and young Beddoe sent particulars of his plan to this physician. The recipient naturally supposed that the communication was from a medical confrere interested in the same subject that he had been investigating, and in a communication to the 'Lancet' referred to "Dr Beddoe". The family doctor brought the paper to Beddoe's house, and jokingly spoke of a rival to himself having come into the field. This led to the suggestion that the so-called rival should seriously devote himself to medicine and abandon the law. The recommendation was adopted, and new courses of study embarked upon. The B.A. degree was taken at London University, and there Mr Beddoe became the first M. B. The author of these successes, however, had determined to have two strings to his bow, and went to a clever Edinburgh coach, and got through not only the first examination of the University there, but won an essay prize. By good fortune he happened to find out the part of the anatomy on which he would be examined, and so crammed in the last hour, and received the examiner's congratulations! The M.D. soon followed, and during an excursion to Orkney about this time began that "quest into hair and eye colour" which became a principal life hobby.
ASSOCIATIONS WITH LISTER
During his residence in Scotland, Lister and Beddoe were chums, and the adventurous spirit of the latter nearly deprived the world of a man to whose antiseptic theories of surgery the world owes a greater debt than anyone can estimate. They were climbing together on the Salisbury crags at Edinburgh when the accident occurred, which happily did not end, but which easily might have ended a great life.
Joining a civil hospital staff, Dr Beddoe had some experience in the Crimea, and spent a long holiday in Holland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Italy before settling down to wait for a practice as a physician in Clifton, which he did in the summer of 1857.
SETTLEMENT AT CLIFTON
In his recollections published by Mr J. W. Arrowsmith, in the autumn of 1910, Dr. Beddoe refers to his settlement in Clifton. "It was," he said, "an imprudent move, as the way was really very completely blocked. Dr. John Addington Symonds, father of the gifted author of that name, had the best practice of the kind out of London. He was a man of remarkable ability, character, and general accomplishments, and still in middle life. William Budd, a man of brilliant genius, and Brittan, also of fair ability, and two or three younger men were all in reality waiting for the reversion ... A vacancy occurred in the Bristol Infirmary immediately after my arrival, for which I became a candidate: but the result was a foregone conclusion. Dr Edward Long Fox, a young man with great local interest, but who had only just taken his degree, obtained the appointment. He was a man of fine nature and great industry and perseverance; and we became great friends though always rivals in practice. In after years we were for a considerable period the two leading physicians of Bristol; but he had always the larger clientele, though mine was at least as good in quality. A dispensary appointment furnished me with the opportunity of doing a considerable amount of gratuitous work, and this I retained until, in a few years, another vacancy occurred at the Infirmary. This time I had practically a walk-over."
Marrying Miss Agnes Montgomerie Christison in 1858, daughter of a Foulden, Berwickshire, minister, Dr Beddoe continued to increase his practice and his interests in Bristol, his wife being also actively associated with a variety of goods works, notably as a governor of the Bristol Endowed Schools, and as Miss Mary Carpenter's "right hand in many matters". The Infirmary appointment was kept for 11 years, and Dr Beddoe never neglected his opportunities for ethnological study. His records enabled him to publish a paper "On the Supposed Increasing Prevalence of Dark Hair in England", which brought Charles Darwin into correspondence with him, and the celebrated writer on the origins of descent thanked Dr Beddoe for his information and for the kindness which prompted him to supply it.
As far back as 1849 he had paid a visit to Ireland, and between 1860 and 1874, while resident in Clifton, made four tours in that country, where archaeology and other subjects occupied him. He systematically pursued his anthropological work, and in 1885 had in the press a work on the "Races of Britain". At that date he took a voyage to Australia, where he spent a short term in travelling.
REMOVAL TO BRADFORD-ON-AVON
Clifton continued to be his home until in 1891 he gave up practice, when he took up his residency at The Chantry, Bradford-on-Avon. The house had associations which appealed to him, it having belonged to Walsingham, the secretary of Queen Elizabeth, while in later days it was the birthplace of Sir John Cam Hobhouse, the friend and companion of Bryon. He had made many friends in Clifton, and upon his departure was entertained at two dinners, one, over which Dr Marshall presided, being attended by his medical brethren, while the other was held to indicate the respect felt for Dr Beddoe. Among other classes of citizens, the Right Hon. Lewis Fry presided at this gathering. An address was presented to him bearing the signatures of many influential people of this district, and from his medical friends he received the gift of a bronze casket containing their valedictory address.
His departure from Clifton and his cessation of the work of physician was prompted by ill health following influenza. Dr Beddoe felt at that period that his course was nearly run, but happily he surmounted the physical difficulty as he had done so many others during his life. In his "Recollections", he alludes to the fact that his Bristol friends had shown they had not forgotten him, and for Bristol and its varied interests he felt a warm admiration.
SCIENTIFIC WORK
His scientific work was recognised by his being appointed President of the Anthropological Institute in 1889-90, and about this time his old University, Edinburgh, made him an Hon. LL.D. In 1890 he was Rhind Lecturer, and delivered at Edinburgh six lectures on the Anthropological History of Europe. In 1905 he was Huxley Lecturer to the Anthropological Institute, his theme being, "Colour and Race in Europe". Two years later his portrait was purchased by subscription and presented to the Bristol Municipal Art Gallery. While resident at Bradford the veteran physician served for some time on the Wilts County Council, and took a share in the Poor Law and Urban District Council work of his own neighbourhood. Bristol still preserved a link with him by making him President of its Archaeological Society, of the Kyrle Society, and by appointing him Hon. Professor of Anthropology of the University of Bristol.
Some years ago, when the building in Park Street, now the Masonic Hall, was the Philosophical Institution, lectures were given during the winter months. Among those who read papers was Dr Beddoe, whose subjects were chiefly concerning ethnology. When a number of skulls were found in excavating for the foundations of the Gas Company's offices, they were produced at a meeting of the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society. Dr Beddoe attended and gave some valuable suggestions.
09/10/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman Charles Bowles Hare
ALDERMAN C. B. HARE
FATHER OF THE BRISTOL COUNCIL
SUDDEN DEATH AT THE COLISEUM
Widespread regret was caused on Saturday when it became known that Ald. Charles Bowles Hare had died suddenly while at the Bristol Coliseum. In the afternoon he visited the interesting exhibition being held there, and while looking down at something which caught his attention he dropped unconscious. Help was at once rendered, and he was lifted into the cottage hospital forming one of the exhibits. There it was discovered that nothing further could be done; the long and useful career of a respected citizen had been impressively, in a moment, brought to an end.
The deceased gentleman was the eldest son of Charles Bowles Hare, of Clifton, and his wife, Henrietta, daughter of Henry Grace, of the county of Surrey. He was born at 9, Savile Place, Clifton, on June 6th, 1841, and educated at Cheltenham College. He became identified with the important Bristol industry carried on under the title of John Hare and Co., and at thirty made his entry into civic life, being returned to the City Council for Redcliff. That occurred in 1871, when the ward sent six members to a Corporation possessing no jurisdiction over the large suburban districts which had grown up outside the city. In the forty years of his service he saw vast changes. Councillors came and councillors went, some retiring from municipal activities, many being to another world. Mr Hare continued in his steady, consistent work until all his contemporaries had gone, and thus for a considerable period he has been honoured as the father of the Council, although few would have suspected from his appearance that he had attained this veteran rank. He was, of course, one of the old Conservative phalanx, but he was one who could work well with those who disagreed with his political views, and the esteem felt for him was not limited to one party. For a time he was leader of his party in the Municipal Chamber.
During Ald. Hare's long municipal term the city was twice enlarged, and the membership of the Council increased, the old gilded chamber, where the Corporation assembled when he joined it, had been abandoned for a more spacious, but less ornate, meeting place, and in the numerous departments of municipal work very great changes have occurred. The modern dock equipment of Bristol is the result of Council decisions, arrived at after seemingly interminable controversy, during the period of Alderman Hare's service. Redcliff continued to return him until 1896, when he was made an alderman. Much of his attention was given to dock work, and in December 1908, the Docks Committee took the unusual course of recording its sense of his services. He had been one of the vice-chairman of that body, and had acted as chairman of an important sub-committee, but health considerations led him to ask relief from these special responsibilities. The resulting of the Docks Committee was as follows:-
"That this committee desire to place on record their best thanks to Alderman Hare and appreciation of the valuable services which he has rendered for the last thirty-five years to the Docks Committee and citizens generally as a member of the committee, and for the last fifteen years as chairman of the Sub-Committee for Works and as one of the vice-chairmen of this committee, and at the same time to express their regret that he finds himself unable to continue his work in these latter positions".
In his reply to this appreciation, Alderman Hare said he regretted that he had felt obliged to resign the chairmanship of the Works Sub-Committee, but he hoped to be able to continue to attend the meetings of the committee and sub-committees. This he has done. He was also a member of the Lord Mayor's Selection Committee, the Finance Committee, the Insurance Committee, and chairman of the Committee on Committees. When the late King Edward came to Bristol to open the Royal Edward Dock, Alderman C. B. Hare was one of the senior members of the Council selected for presentation to his Majesty.
Membership of the Council occupied but little part of his energies. He became a member of the Society of Merchants in 1870, and attained the dignity of Master six years later. In 1878 he was chosen Sheriff, Sir George Edwards being at the time Mayor. He associated himself with the Colston Parent Society, and was at one time president and treasurer; he was for several years churchwarden of St. Mary Redcliff, and was in that position when the money was raised for restoring the tower and spire. His interest in education led to his becoming one of the managers for three important schools - Redcliff National, Temple Boys, and St. Silas' National. In various Church of England movements he showed an interest, and his musical tastes led to his being appointed deputy chairman of the Bristol Festival Committee in 1878 and 1893, while in 1896 he was acting chairman. He had acted as a director of George's Brewery Company, of the Bristol Water Company, the Clifton Suspension Bridge Company, and to the old Rifle Drill Hall Company. He has been a justice of the peace for Bristol since 1881, and therefore is one of the senior members of the magisterial body. He was an enthusiastic Volunteer, and was one of the first to join the Bristol Rifle Corps. He was enrolled on September 20th, 1859, and served until 1871, retiring with the rank of lieutenant. He still continued his connection with the corp as an honorary member. He has on many occasions figured in local Conservative movements, and in recent years his son, Mr Aubone Hare has shown that politically he is following in his father's footsteps. It will be realised from this biographical survey that the late alderman was one who touched public life at numerous points, and his decease at the age of 70 directs attention to the exceptional service he has rendered to his native city.
11/08/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman William Robert Barker
Widespread regret was felt in Bristol yesterday afternoon, when it became known the illness of Alderman W. R. Barker terminated fatally. Few men have more fully and consistently served the city of his adoption in public work, and for the last years he has devoted a considerable portion of his leisure to Poor Law and municipal administration. He has been lately laid aside, and it is some time since he has been able to attend a Council meeting. He passed away at his residence, 106, Redland Road, at the age of only a few weeks short of 78.
William Robert Barker was born in London but had resided for so many years in Bristol and so closely identified himself with the history and antiquities of the city that he came to be regarded by many persons as an expert. He early entered with much heartiness public work. Bristol then had its Poor Law administration conducted under three separate jurisdictions, and two of the Boards, before sharing responsibility for portions of the city, had to look after the poor of a group of villages. Mr Barker joined one of these bodies - Barton Regis Board of Guardians - which met each week at the workhouse at Eastville, and lived to see the city increase its boundaries enormously, while the whole municipal body was formed into one civil parish and the divided Poor Law control brought to an end.
Mr Barker entered the City Council in 1882 for Westbury Ward where he defeated the late Mr William Smith by eight votes. Boundary enlargement and changes due to the redistribution of seats have helped to develop the identity of the district he represented, the ward now bearing the name Westbury being then in the county. We may think of Barker's constituency as the important residential district of Redland. At the end of the first term Mr Barker found himself opposed by Mr George Pearson, afterwards one of Bristol's valued aldermen, and although the ward had strong Conservative indications, and Mr Barker was a Liberal, he secured a majority of 65 votes. At subsequent elections he was not troubled by opponents, and in 1902, when a couple of vacancies occurred in the aldermanic ranks, he was chosen to fill one of the gaps. He served on the Finance Committee, but was better known for his work in connection with public libraries and with the Museum and Art Gallery. Conditions within these institutions have undergone a transformation. Alderman Barker served on the civic Museum Committee which in course of time passed over the collection of books to the new Central Library in College Green, but through the generosity of Lord Winterstoke had added to its duties the care of a magnificent Art Gallery. As chairman of the Museum and Art Gallery Committee Alderman Barker had the satisfaction of seeing these associated institutions growing in popularity. Great changes have occurred in internal arrangements, and the display of treasures of one kind and another have undergone a vast improvement. Perhaps he was never more gratified than when the labours of himself and the civic office resulted in a new collection of pictures obtained from corporate bodies or individual lenders being arranged in that noble Art Gallery which owed its existence to the liberality of Lord Winterstoke. In Museum improvements he took the greatest pride.
In his story of the civic work which became his special interest, other features of his career have for the moment been omitted from their chronological place. In 1889 Alderman Barker was chosen a magistrate, and he was elected Mayor of Bristol 1892-93. A painful event took place in the Council Chamber during his Mayoralty. Sir Charles Wathen, who had been his predecessor in the civic chair, while sitting on one of the front benches at a Council gathering, was seized with a heart affection which expired in a few minutes. A subject which possessed considerable interest for Alderman Barker was the celebration of the fourth centenary of the discovery of North America by John Cabot, who sailed from the port of Bristol. The alderman, was appointed to represent the city at the meetings of the Royal Society of Canada, held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1897.
The deceased Alderman showed much interest in window gardening and the Redland Flower Show was established mainly by his exertions. In the development of the Redland High School for Girls, of the council of which he was a member, he took an active part. During the damage caused by the serious floods in Bristol, he acted as honorary secretary of the Help Fund, towards raising and distributing money. When the party of Colonials visited Bristol he organised the reception, and taking the pen in hand, he prepared an attractive little handbook for the use of the visitors.
Alderman Barker was, as might be noted, a man of culture, and a literary venture of considerable local importance emanated from this. It was "St. Mark's or the Mayor's Chapel". The elegantly got up volume, published by C. Hemmons, St. Stephen Street, with illustrations, 1892, was inscribed "with great respect to Alderman Sir Charles Wathen, who for six years sustained the office of Mayor of Bristol and during whose mayoralty the restoration of St. Mark's Chapel was carried out". Alderman Barker received assistance in his undertaking from the Town Clerk and the city treasurer and also from the city librarian. The Berkeley effigies in St. Mark's Chapel have been drawn by Mrs Bagnoll-Oakeley, and the lady consented to reproductions appearing in the volume. Ald. Barker divided his book into two parts, the first historical, dealing with the founder and the charters, and the history from 1720, which year commenced the period when the Corporation had St. Mark's as their official place of worship. The restoration of 1888-9 was also dealt with; and the shabby neglected appearance before the restoration recalled. It may be that the existence of such a volume as that of Ald. Barker's will stop the recurrence of another period of indifference and decay.
In his fondness for archaeology he naturally admired the labours of Mr John Latimer, Bristol's latest historian, and in respect of his work on the charters of the city, published after his death, he stated, "The writer has again rendered great service in the elucidation of our local history".
05/01/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Hathway
THE LATE MR WILLIAM HATHWAY, J.P.
Yesterday morning, at the Bristol police court, special reference was made to the death of Mr William Hathway, J.P. The Mayor (Mr R. H. Symes) was in the chair, and the other magistrates present were Messrs A. Robinson, W. W. Jose, J. W. Arrowsmith and W. Lane.
The Mayor addressing the court, said he had come there that morning to make reference to the death of a brother magistrate, Mr William Hathway. Mr Hathway, as most of them knew, died the previous morning at the age of 87 years. It was quite fitting he thought, that he might interpose to speak, with all respect as he wished to do, of a gentleman who had lived so many years in this city with credit and satisfaction not only to himself but to the citizens generally. Mr Hathway, he might remind them, was elected Mayor of Bristol in November 1872, and after that was elected an alderman, serving in that capacity for a good many years and giving good services to the citizens and Corporation in that capacity. Mr Hathway was also appointed a magistrate - and was a magistrate, of course, by virtue of his office of Mayor - and served on that bench with satisfaction and regularity. As all of them knew, Mr Hathway was a very old citizen, a very old business man, having been carrying on business for more than half a century very successfully. He was a gentleman who had lived all those years among them and never forfeited the respect of his fellow-citizens; they could all speak with great regard and great respect of him, and therefore the expression of regret would be unanimous at his death.
30/08/1895
Western Daily Press
Will
Sir Joseph Weston
The will of Sir Joseph Weston, Kt., of Dorset House, Clifton, formerly M.P. for East Bristol, has been proved at £159,991 15s 0d.
05/09/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Overton Wills
DEATH OF MR H. O. WILLS
A MUNIFICENT BENEFACTOR
It is with much regret we announce the death of Mr Henry Overton Wills, the sad event occurring at his residence, Kelston Knoll, near Bath, on Sunday evening. The deceased gentleman was a member of a family renowned for their great liberality and public spirit, and he surpassed them all by his munificent gift which enabled Bristol to obtain the charter for her University. The eldest son of the late Mr Henry Overton Wills, J.P., of Bristol, he was born in this city on December 22nd 1828. He was educated at private schools, and then became associated with the firm of W. D. and H. O. Wills, the well-known tobacco manufacturers, whose place of business was then in Mary-le-Port Street. In course of time his cousin, Mr W. H. Wills, became the leading partner, and the deceased with his brothers, Mr Edward Payson Wills and Mr Frederick Wills, were the other partners. Mr H. O. Wills was a director of the Imperial Tobacco Company, although his health did not permit him to take an active part in the management in recent years. He was the father of Messrs George, Harry, and Melville Wills, who are directors of the company, and also of Mr Stanley Wills, who is a barrister.
Mr H. O. Wills became J.P. for the city and county of Bristol. He was a director of the Bristol Gas Company, the Bristol Wagon and Carriage Company, the Queen Insurance Company (local committee), the Bristol Athenaeum, and the Bristol Musical Festival Society. He was also a member of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. He was on the Duke of Westminster's Executive Committee of the "Queen's Nurses Jubilee Association", a member of the Bath Art Gallery Committee and the Bath Conservative Association, while he was vice-president of the Weston Conservative Association. He was not a member of the Bristol City Council, having been defeated in a contest with the late Mr J. C. Wall.
LOVE OF THE ORGAN
A great enthusiast of music, Mr H. O. Wills contributed towards two of the principal organs in the city. The erection of Colston Hall in 1867 proved an incentive to Mr Philip John Smith to form the Philharmonic Society, and an organ was hired and placed upon the platform. It, however, proved inadequate, and some years later the directors of the hall decided to secure an organ of their own. Mr H. O. Wills, who was a director, in company with Mr George Riseley, who had been giving recitals on the original instrument, visited the Alexandra Palace, where a magnificent organ was tested. The result of the trial was so satisfactory that a specification for the Colston Hall organ was drawn up and entrusted to Mr Henry Willis, the builder of the instrument at the Alexandra Palace. Mr Riseley became organist to the Colston Hall Company, and Mr H. O. Wills took a special interest in the organ. Another instance in which Mr H. O. Wills was seen to display interest in an organ was when the Dean and Chapter were appealing for funds for a new organ at the Cathedral. Mr H. O. Wills generously intimated that they need be under no further financial difficulty, for he would take the responsibility upon himself. The organ was opened in October, 1907, and is a fine illustration of the ability of Mr Walker, the builder. Mr H. O. Wills possessed an excellent organ in his own residence, and he was an able amateur player. Pictures were a source of gratification to him, and he subscribed £1,000 to the Bath Victoria Art Gallery, besides presenting to the Bristol Municipal Art Gallery, erected through the liberality of his cousin, Lord Winterstoke, Herkomer's noble realistic painting, "The Guards' Cheer". Among the deceased's special acts of liberality must be mentioned £10,000 given towards the Bristol Convalescent Home, opened in connecting with Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.
THE UNIVERSITY GIFT
Mr H. O. Wills will be remembered chiefly through his munificent gift to the University College. It was on January 14th, 1908, that Mr G. A. Wills (his eldest son), presiding at the University College Colston Society dinner, announced that his father had promised £100,000 towards the endowment of a University for Bristol and the West of England. The announcement, it need scarcely be said, met with an enthusiastic reception, and on July 9th following an address to King Edward on the subject of a charter for the University was presented when his Majesty visited Avonmouth for the purpose of opening the Royal Edward Dock. Following the offer of Mr H. O. Wills further promises of financial aid to the University scheme were forthcoming, and an official statement showed that nineteen donors had each contributed £1,000 or upwards. Members of the Wills family figured largely in the list, as will be seen from the following amounts contributed:- Mr H. O. Wills, £100,000; Lord Winterstoke, £35,000; Sir Frederick Wills, £10,000; Sir E. Channing Wills, £10,000; Mr G. A. Wills, £3,000; Mr H. H. Wills, £2,000; Mr W. Melville Wills, £1,000. In addition to his contribution Mr G. A. Wills presented to the University its athletic ground near Coombe Dingle.
FREEDOM OF THE CITY
It seemed only natural that so large a donation towards the Bristol University as that given by Mr H. O. Wills should be acknowledged on behalf of the city in the most pronounced manner, and it was decided to confer upon him the freedom of the city. When proposing that the Freedom should be conferred upon Mr Wills, at the meeting of the City Council on the 14th September, 1909, the Lord Mayor (Mr Edward Robinson) said: A hundred thousand pounds is a very noble sum. It was given to a great cause, and I think it most fitting that we should acknowledge the interest and affection manifested by Mr H. O. Wills for the city in which he was born and bred by conferring on him the most cherished honour the city can bestow. Mr H. O. Wills has now reached the patriarchal age of four-score years, and owing to delicate health has lived retired for some length of time, but in his earlier years he was an active and valued participant in the commercial life of the city. Alderman Hare, who seconded the motion, remarked that if Mr Wills had not given such a large sum towards the University, they would not now have in their possession the Charter which marked an epoch in the history of Bristol. Alderman Hare referred also to the generosity of Mr Wills towards the medical charities. It was decided to confer the freedom of the city on Mr J. S. Fry as well as Mr H. O. Wills.
The presentation of the casket containing the certificate in connection with the freedom of the city in October, 1909, was shorn of much interest, as Mr H. O. Wills was at the time too unwell to leave his residence. The Lord Mayor, however, in the presence of his three sons, asked the eldest to receive the casket containing the certificate. Having received the casket, Mr Henry Herbert Wills expressed regret that his father was not well enough to be there, but also that he was absent through the inclement weather. Mr H. O. Wills had sent a telegram to the Lord Mayor in which he said: "With deep regret I have to apologise to your lordship and the gentlemen of the Corporation for my inability, by reason of the severe weather, to leave my house and drive to Bristol and back to Bath on this memorable day, when I had naturally hoped to be at the Council House to receive the freedom of my native city; and to thank your lordship and the members of the Council for the distinguished honour conferred on me. I raise my glass to drink prosperity to the grand old city of Bristol and its Lord Mayor and Corporation, and say from my heart, 'Floreat Bristolia'." Mr H. H. Wills (who on a subsequent occasion manifested his own liberality by presenting a valuable organ for Clifton College Chapel) read the following statement which his father had written. In it he said:-
To the Lord Mayor of Bristol and Gentlemen of the Council-,
I thank you for the great honour which you have done me by summoning me to the Council Chamber of our city to receive at your heads the highest gift which I believe is in your power to bestow, namely, the freedom of the city of Bristol. It is a great thing for anyone to be thought worthy of this distinction, and no one can appreciate it too highly. Gentlemen, I am well aware of the reason why you have bestowed this honour upon one so unworthy of it as myself, and I am very glad to have helped forward the establishment of a University in our city and the West of England. Nor am I alone in this good work, for can we forget how Dr Percival pleaded for this when he came to found Clifton College, no how he has continued to desire a University for Bristol up to the present date? And we are all glad that the time has come when his desires have been accomplished. We must not forget how much we owe this happy result to the efforts of those gentlemen who have so devotedly supported the project by continuous labour and help; and amongst those I will name two, because I had the advantage of being at school with them in my young days. I refer to Mr Albert Fry and the Right Hon. Lewis Fry, P.C., both of whom have laboured hard and continuously for this good purpose.The former, alas! was taken from us by a too early death, but Mr Lewis Fry is happily still with us, and long may it be before he will be called away. Others I might speak of as having rendered yeoman service to the University, and in their hands this great institution will gone on and prosper, to the great advantage of our city and its surroundings. I am very glad to be associated today with Mr Storrs Fry, who is so eminently deserving of the honour which he receives today. I must not forget to thank you gentlemen, for the conspicuous help which your Corporation has decided to give the University yearly, and which will do untold good to it and to its neighbourhood. And now let me once more offer you, my Lord Mayor, and you, gentlemen, my most cordial thanks for conveying to me the freedom of the city of Bristol in this beautiful casket, and for the kind and generous manner of your so doing, and trust that you, my Lord Mayor and gentlemen, will all believe that from my heart I wish prosperity to the ancient city.
H. O. Wills
In addition to the gifts which have already been mentioned, the chief of which made the University practicable, there were other occasions when thanks were given to Mr H. O. Wills by other bodies and associations for generous donations.
The deceased was the first Chancellor of the Bristol University, and held that honoured position to the end of his life.
Mr H. Overton Wills was of a retiring disposition, and his health of recent years was not robust. Indeed, this latter fact led him to spend much of the summer and autumn months in Norway, where he had a residence at Aak-Romsdal. Recently his condition had grown more serious, and death did not come as a surprise to the members of his family. He had attained the age of 83, and he leaves behind him many mementoes of his generous disposition.
15/06/1894
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Arthur Sidney Lemon
Probate of the will dated July 11th, 1885, of the late Mr Arthur Sidney Lemon, of Eastgate Street, Gloucester, wine and spirit merchants, who died at 5, Alma Road, Clifton on 17th April last, aged 42 years, has been granted at £8,681 5s 6d.
08/08/1894
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Macauley Miller
The will dated January 12, 1888, with a codicil made July 4th, 1889, of Mr Thomas Macauley Miller, of Claremont, Westbury-on-Trym, and formerly of Bristol, merchant, who died on 13th June last, leaving personal estate valued at £87,855 13s 9d has been proved.
21/10/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter J. Kidner
DEATH OF MR WALTER J. KIDNER
We regret to announce the death of Mr Walter J. Kidner, the well-known Bristol musician, which occurred yesterday, after a long illness, at his residence, 8, Hampton Park, Redland.
Mr Kidner was a born musician, and during the whole of his career he was in touch with all kinds of movements in which music was largely concerned. Born in 1851, Mr Kidner had the advantage of a musical father, who became a member of one of his son's choirs, and who in his day played violin, trombone, and clarinet. At eight years of age Walter Kidner learned Tonic Sol fa in a class taught by Mr H. T. White. This class was at a chapel where his father led the music. He took the Intermediate Certificate from Mr White, and thus passed into the Tonic Sol fa Association, an advanced choir conducted at that time by the late Alfred Stone. Losing his boy alto voice, Mr Kidner developed a remarkably good light tenor, and from the time of the settlement of his voice he was concerned in all Alfred Stone's choirs and glee parties. He sang the tenor solo music in "Messiah" for the first time in 1870, at 19 years of age. The three scrap-books in which he preserved the programmes of concerts in which he sang or conducted proved his activity.
He joined the Bristol Orpheus Society in 1872, the Bristol Madrigal Society in 1873, and in 1872 took part in the male voice choir which Alfred Stone led to victory at the National Music Meetings at the Crystal Palace. In 1865 he had entered business in the office of Messrs W. D. and H. O. Wills, and this he continued till 1875. In 1873 the Bristol Musical Festival was established,Alfred Stone becoming choirmaster, secretary, and manager. Mr Kidner gave up business in order to help him in the second festival of 1876, with the intention of joining the ranks of professional musicians - an intention which was afterwards realised. The association with Mr Alfred Stone continued until 1878, when all Bristol was shocked and grieved by the former's sudden and premature death. Mr Kidner stepped into the post left vacant, and became secretary of the Festival.
Mr Kidner began as a teacher in 1878 at Sneyd Park Church. In 1883-5 he attended the summer term of the Tonic Sol-fa College, and spoke in warmest terms of the experience gained there. He took the A. C. while at the College in solo singing, being the first to pass in that branch. On the formation of the Bristol section of the National Society of Professional Musicians (now known as the Incorporated Society of Musicians), Mr Kidner was one of the earliest to be selected a member. He took a prominent part in the discussions at the annual meeting of the Society at Bristol in 1890, and sang the prize song composed by Mr W. Noel Johnson. In 1884, with the help of lantern slides, he lectured on Vocal Physiology in Bristol. For two years he was conductor of the 'Bristol Choirs Association' uniting choirs formed out of various Nonconformist church choirs in the district, which held weekly rehearsals and gave sacred concerts and musical services in many places. When this Association came to an end Mr Kidner started the Bristol and Clifton Philharmonic Society.
Since 1887 he, for many years, conducted the Midsomer Norton Choral Society. The town only counts 5,000 inhabitants but there were 120 members in the choir, and oratorios were given with band. Here Mr Kidner had an elementary class as well. The Knowle District Choral Society was also under his baton. At the Bath High School for Girls, the head mistress, Miss Frith, warmly seconded his work. She was most desirous of introducing sight-singing. In Bristol and Clifton he taught singing at a number of boys' and girls' schools, giving usually an hour a week. In the girls' schools, the Tonic Sol-fa was quickly applied to the old notation, but in the boys' schools Tonic Sol-fa only was taught, and the boys liked it best. Mr Kidner had some striking experiences of the unmusical qualities of middle class boys. For several years he was choirmaster of Sneyd Park Church, and before that was organist of Christ Church, Pill.
The great feature in the life of Mr Kidner was the formation of the Society of Bristol Gleemen, of which he remained conductor for a long period, and only relinquished the direction when severe illness overtook him. It was at the old Athenaeum which has since become the Liberal Club, that a meeting was held on January 13th, 1886, in response to a circular issued by Mr Kidner, and the organisation was founded. The first officers appointed were as follow:- President, Mr F. Wills; vice-president, Mr E. G. Clarke; hon secretaries, Mr F. Wallis Stoddart and Mr James Stevens; hon treasurer Mr W. F. Warton; conductor Mr Walter J. Kidner; committee - Messrs R. M. Hatch, C.W. Warren, Percy Baldwin, W. C. Oatway, W. M. Penny, and T. Protheroe; librarian, Mr R. S. Kidner. There was a roll of 90 members at the initial Ladies' Night, in 1887, 15 being honorary members. In the preface to the book of words of the first Ladies' Night it was announced that "the Executive Committee are unable to include in the programme, with one exception, glees by English composers. English glees and part-songs are, as a rule, written for the male alto, and as the Gleemen are all either tenors or basses, such music would be useless to them. It is proposed, as soon as possible, to invite English composers to write glees for the tenor voice; and the committee hope in the near future to present original music by English writers." How this promise has been redeemed may be gathered by the perusal of a list of original glees and other writings, all by English composers, which have been given at different dates and added to the repertory of the Gleemen.
With Mr Kidner at their head, the Society not only sang on the occasion of their Ladies' Night in Bristol, but permitted the inhabitants of some other towns to have the gratification of listening to their glees. In the last century the members thus sang at Midsomer Norton, in 1887; Bath, 1888; Norton Hall, near Bath, 1890; Pontypridd, 1896; Newport, 1897; Newport, 1898; Bath, 1899. Since 1896 the practice of introducing a well-known lady vocalist as a contrast to a male voice choir, and the eminent soprano, Miss Lucile Hill, made her first appearance in Bristol in that year. In March, 1907, the Society held a coming-of-age concert at the Victoria Rooms. Mr Kidner gave proof of his skill in the composition of part songs, and on that occasion "An Indian Lullaby" by him was given as well as his more attractive effort, "Lull me to sleep". Other pleasing productions by Mr Kidner also in the repertoire of the Society are "A Sailor's Song" and "The Silent Land".
Another society with which he had associations was Bristol Choral Society, conducted by Mr George Riseley, his duties here being, as in the case of the Festival Society, secretarial. His genial disposition and business habits enabled him to carry on the work appertaining to his engagement in a manner satisfactory to the society and agreeable to those with whom he came in contact.
03/03/1893
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Fisher
Our obituary notice contains an announcement of the death of Mr Charles Fisher, which took place yesterday, at his residence, Cromartie, Pembroke Road. The deceased, who was a wine and spirit merchant, carrying on business in Barrs Street, was well-known and highly respected, and the news of his untimely death will be received with regret by a large circle of friends. Mr Fisher at one time represented St. James's Ward in the Town Council. He had been suffering of late from a serious affection of the throat, and an operation performed some months ago, although temporarily successful, did not completely check the progress of the disease from which he suffered. Mr Fisher took a warm interest in music and art, and was of an extremely genial disposition.
24/06/1893
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr John Silcox
The gross value has been sworn at £10,769 15s 10d and the net value at £2,730 of the personal estate of the late Mr John Silcox, of The Laurels, Willsbridge, and of the firm J. and J. F. Silcox and Co., 94 and 95, Temple Street, Bristol, provision merchants, who died on the 9th March, 1892 aged 83 years.
02/06/1893
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr J. G. Heaven
Our obituary yesterday contained an announcement of the death of Mr J. G. Heaven, for many years clerk to the Bristol Sanitary Authority, but who retired from that position about four years ago. Mr Heaven was the son of Mr C. G. Heaven, who lived form many years in the old mansion house in Great George Street, and father and son were in partnership for some years as solicitors in the city. But about 1855 the post of clerk to the Local Board of Health was rendered vacant by the death of Mr Harris, and the deceased was appointed to the position which he held until his retirement. In consequence of the adoption by the Town Council in 1886 of the Local Government Act (1858) Mr Heaven became clerk to the Streets Improvement Committee, and at the same time he was appointed to the clerkship of the Improvement Committee of the Council on the resignation of Mr Edward Burges, which position he occupied until the time of his death. On leaving the Sanitary office he was presented with a valuable testimonial by his colleagues as a token of their esteem and regard. Mr Heaven was 73 years of age, and leaves two sons.
12/10/1893
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Joseph Leech
The late Mr Joseph Leech, of Burwells, Leigh Woods, who died on the 13th August, left property of the value of £107,191 gross, and £107,077 net, the personalty being sworn under £107,100.
26/10/1893
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Abraham Rizdon Grace
Leaving personal estate of the value of £32,186 13s the late Mr Abraham Rizdon Grace, of Glenside, Stoke Bishop, and of Bristol, corn merchant, who died on the 20th September last, has appointed his executors.
10/11/1893
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Charles Fisher
The will, dated August 22, 1877, of Mr Charles Fisher, late of Cromartie, 60, Pembroke Road, Clifton, wine and spirit merchants, has been sworn at £4,277 19s 11d.
30/01/1911
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Lord Winterstoke (Sir William Henry Wills)
DEATH OF LORD WINTERSTOKE
A NOTEWORTHY CAREER
Lord Winterstoke, one of Bristol's most notable citizens, passed peacefully away yesterday morning, in his Somerset home at Blagdon. It was his wish to be spared a lingering illness, he hoped that he might "die in harness", and the desire was realised. He was in his customary health on Saturday, felt unwell at three on Sunday morning, and at 5.45 had breathed his last. He was in his 91st year.
Lord Winterstoke remained keen and vigorous until the end. He was yachting with Sir James Inglis, the general manager of the Great Western Company, in the early autumn, and went to Blagdon in September, intending, according to his habit, to remain through the winter. He took the chair at a meeting of the Imperial Tobacco Company executive on Tuesday last, and was at the board meeting on Thursday. He knew that the continuance of his life was uncertain, but preferred to maintain his ordinary activities as long as he was permitted to do so, rather than to be regarded as an invalid. On Friday he had his Shire horses paraded before him prior to selecting those which were to be entered for the London show. To the end his interest was manifested in agricultural topics, and he minutely concerned himself with the details of the management of his Blagdon estate. Another subject which had occupied him much was the regulation of the commons of Blackdown and Burrington Ham. For this purpose he bought the manor of Burrington in April, 1909, and it will be remembered that a public inquiry was held into proposals made with a view of restoring the ancient rights to the commoners and preventing the trespass which had in recent years been a subject of complaint. Lord Winterstoke was looking forward to going to London to take his seat in the Upper House at the opening of Parliament, and was anticipating the settlement of the commons regulation by securing a provisional order for the scheme already formulated. He had planned a yachting cruise for April, and it was expected that the Bishop of Bath and Wells would have accompanied him. It will be gathered, therefore, that neither advancing years nor questions of health had interfered with the manifestation of the old interests in many matters which occupied his Lordship's attention. On Saturday he retired to rest as usual, but at three in the morning, when he rang his bell, he was found to be seriously unwell. Miss Stancomb Wills went to him and applied restoratives, and meanwhile Dr Bristowe of Wrington was sent for. The medical man arrived at 4.45 but in spite of his attentions, Lord Winterstoke became weaker and passed away at quarter to six, in the presence of Miss Stancomb Wills and Mrs Richardson (his adopted daughters). The news in the district and in Bristol was received with expressions of sincere regret, and recalled not only the many activities of a long life, but the generosity and public spirit which had characterised it. Mr G. A. Wills, Mr F. W. Wills, and Mr H. Secombe Wills motored over from Bristol to Blagdon in the morning, and Mr H. H. Wills, Sheriff of Somerset, proceeded hither from Barleywood, Wrington. Lord Winterstoke had left directions for his funeral which will take place at St. Andrew's, Blagdon, in a grave near the west front. The church of St. Andrew, in which the funeral service will be held, has been the subject of important restoration work at the expense of Lord Winterstoke. The renovation of the tower was carried out in memory of his wife, who died in 1896, and on the completion of the work to the nave, the building was reopened in October, 1909. About £10,000 had been spent on the scheme. His Lordship had shown interest in the church still further by purchasing the advowson and presenting it to the incumbent, the Rev. G. M. Lambrick, rural dean of Wells. The funeral will be on Thursday afternoon at 3.30, and it is requested that flowers be not sent.
SPECIAL MEMOIR
Lord Winterstoke may be said to have been a link between old residential Bristol and the modern Bristol, whose inhabitants leaving the business portions of the city take up their abode in the outskirts. When he was a boy and lived with his father in Portland Square, that locality contained mansions inhabited by some of our merchant princes, but those roomy structures have long been converted into factories. It was his lot Sunday after Sunday, to accompany his father and mother to the Tabernacle in Penn Street, then one of the leading Nonconformist places of worship in the West of England, and the name of Wills was then as now a tower of strength among Congregationalists, or, as they were formerly called, Independents. The ancestors of Lord Winterstoke came from Cornwall, and settled in Bristol nearly a century and a half ago, the family name of Wills being derived from the Rev. William Wills, a rector in Cornwall, who at the restoration of Charles II was ejected from his living. The grandfather (Mr H. O. Wills) and father of the deceased (Mr W. D. Wills) were staunch Nonconformists of Bristol, and for nearly half a century the successive 'managers' of the Tabernacle, which had no settled pastor, but was supplied by different ministers from different parts of the country. Under the hospital roofs of the Messrs Wills, Rowland Hill, Robert Hall, John Foster, Dr Ryland, John Angell James, James Parsons, Dr James Hamilton, Newman Hall, Dr George Smith, and other eminent ministers were frequent and welcome guests. It is also worthy of note that Lord Winterstoke's grandfather, Mr Robert Steven, of Glasgow and Camberwell (where for a long time he held office in the Rev. George Calyton's church), was one of the founders of the London Missionary Society and British and Foreign Bible Society.
EARLY BUSINESS CAREER
The name of Wills has been identified with the trade of Bristol as tobacco and snuff manufacturers for a long period, and although the exact year of the commencement of the firm is somewhat obscure, it may be assumed that, for various reasons, the business at first transacted was comparatively small. It is quite certain that the business was in existence in 1783, and was carried on in Mary-le-Port Street under the style of Ricketts, Leonard, and Co. At the same time there were the firms of Ricketts and Load and James Stansfield and Co. In 1819 these firms were absorbed by Maurice James and Co., and subsequently the firm of John Wodehouse and Co. was also taken in. Then the firm of Lilly, Wills, and Co., of Redcliff Street, absorbed them all. The senior partner was the father of the late Alderman Lilly, and Mr H. O. Wills, the other partner, was the grandfather of Lord Winterstoke, who, in his turn, became senior partner. The firm underwent repeated alterations in name, and it traded for a while as Wills, Ditchett, Day, and Wills, Lord Winterstoke's father being the junior partner. Then it became W. D. and H. O. Wills, Mr Leonard and Mr R. Ricketts having retired. That was in 1833, and the businesses in Mary-le-Port Street and Redcliff Street became united. The firm then consisted of Messrs Frederick Ricketts, William Day Wills, and Henry Overton Wills, who traded as Ricketts, Wills, and Co. That partnership lasted till 1847, and then the firm reverted to W. D. and H. O. Wills once more.
Lord Winterstoke, who was the youngest son of Mr William Day Wills, was born in Bristol on September 1st, 1830. His early training was conducted first at home, and afterwards at Mill Hill School. He is stated to have been a conscientious student and a successful one, and he stood at the head of the sixth form, and captain of the school when he matriculated at the London University. It had long been his own intention to go to the bar. Further University training with that end in view was decided upon. But a serious illness extending over several months checked his collegiate studies, and necessitated his removal to Sidmouth for the winter months. He returned during the early summer of 1848 much improved in health, and during the period of convalescence he glided gradually into the business of the old house of which his father was then the head. He made himself familiar with the various details, and his thorough acquaintance with the growth and treatment of tobacco was afterwards of great service to the trade. In the year 1858 Lord Winterstoke, his cousins, Mr H. O. Wills, jun., and Mr Edward Payson Wills, were taken into the firm and then W. D. and H. O. Wills and Sons became the title. Sir Frederick was a subsequent partner. Lord Winterstoke's technical knowledge was of especial value to the firm when a failure of the tobacco leaf, through natural causes or by war, taxed the ingenuity of experts to maintain the high character of the firm's manufactures. Even the stoppage of supplies from America during the Union war did not seriously inconvenience the Bristol house, as Lord Winterstoke was able to find elsewhere temporary substitutes for the far-famed Virginia leaf. His varied attainments, combined with his skill and ability in his own particular business, placed Lord Winterstoke at the head of the tobacco trade in this country, and he was unanimously elected chairman of the committee organised to offer resistance to the heavy duty which Sir Stafford Northcote proposed to levy upon tobacco in 1878. This mastery over all the details of his business resulted in the increased prosperity of the firm and in the public position of its senior member.
A SUCCESSFUL MANUFACTURER
The progressive policy, gradual but unmistakable, was continued in the Redcliff Street factory, and additional premises were from time to time secured, until the business became so extensive that it was found necessary to erect the spacious pile of buildings which occupy a prominent position in East Street, Bedminster, and which is now the chief factory. The principle of limited liability was applied to the firm, and Lord Winterstoke became chairman of the directors. A striking proof of the regard entertained for their employers by the numerous workpeople was afforded at a soiree when the Bedminster factory was completed, and Lord Winterstoke proved so genial a president. Another and permanent demonstration is afforded in the reception room at the factory, where the walls are hung not only with portraits of the founders and promoters of the firm, but side by side and commingling with the masters are the portraits in oil of old men and women who served these masters faithfully and well, some of them for half a century. The different departments of the factory, in which forethought for the care of the employees is strikingly manifest, have often been referred to, and in all these the guiding hand of Lord Winterstoke could be traced. There is a library provided, accessible to all, where wholesome books may be perused: there are large dining-rooms and cooking appliances, while vianda of all descriptions are provided at the lowest possible prices. Formerly a huge picnic was annually arranged for the workpeople, and Lord Winterstoke and his fellow partners always made a point of attending on these occasions, thus showing their sympathy with those in their service. Of late years a change advantageous to the workers has been effected, since in lieu of the railway trip they are secured a week's holiday. The bonus system carried out through the liberality of the directors is another excellent feature in connection with the factory, as by it all those employed share in the prosperity of the business. When the tobacco trade of England passed through a crisis at the threatened "trust" of American manufacturers, and the British manufacturers sought to combine in defence, Lord Winterstoke was regarded as one who would naturally take the leading part. He was chosen chairman of the Imperial Tobacco Company, and under his able guidance, and that of other principal companies, a combination was formed sufficient to worthily protect native industry as far as the tobacco trade is concerned.
A CIVIC BENEFACTOR
In thus making his good work begin at home, Lord Winterstoke did not confine his exertions to care for those in the factory, but extended his munificence to the various charities of Bristol and to some of the excellent institutions of the metropolis. He was a governor of Bristol Grammar School, and endowed it with a £50 scholarship, besides and prizes and presents of various kinds. The large organ in the great hall, built by Messrs Vowles, at a cost of £1,700, was the gift of his Lordship to this excellent institution. He not merely befriended the Grammar School by contributions of money, but devoted much time and attention towards the proper order and good government of the school. He was also a governor of the Red Maids' School and Queen Elizabeth's Hospital. He was likewize a governor of St. Bartholomew's, the Foundling, and the Sion Hospitals in the metropolis. Lord Winterstoke's name will be remembered in connection with Colston Hall, as when the directors of the company came to the determination to rebuild that structure after its destruction by fire, he liberally offered to present for the building an organ to cost £5,000 built by Mr Henry Willis, from the specification of Mr George Riseley. It was through his exertions and those of his cousin, Mr H. O. Wills, that the organ was placed in the original hall.
SUPPORT OF NONCONFORMITY
Not merely by family descent, but by personal conviction, his lordship was a Nonconformist and a Liberal. Desirous of protecting the interests of Dissenters in the pre-eminently Conservative county of Somerset, he in various ways rendered efficient help by asserting the principle of religious equality in his own neighbourhood. Though he lived in the metropolis during a great part of each year, he did not relinquish his interest in matters that concerned the Free Churches. He succeeded Sir Charles Reed on the Board of the Dissenting Deputies. For a long time he took an active part in the management of the Memorial Hall, of which he was one of the trustees, and he showed a warm and practical interest in the foundation of Mansfield College, Oxford. Loyalty to Nonconformity and affection towards Mill Hill School were testified by Lord Winterstoke on June, 1898, when the new chapel was opened and the first public recital given on the new organ which was given by him. The service in the chapel was followed by a luncheon in the great dinning-hall, at which he presided, and with his accustomed generosity he offered to give £1,000 towards clearing off a debt of £1,500 on the chapel. At the prize distribution to the scholars in the evening he delivered an address, in which he referred to his long and close connection with the school, and spoke of the institution being founded nearly a century before by grandsons of men who cherished learning, though by a refined persecution they were excluded from the national Universities. The wheels of time had in their revolutions in recent years re-opened Oxford and Cambridge to them. The vote of thanks accorded to Lord Winterstoke for his presence and presiding at the gathering was proposed by Dr. Weymouth and seconded by Sir Walter Besant. Before the day's proceedings terminated, his lordship consented, at the earnest request of his fellow governors, to sit for a painting of himself, to be presented to him with a view of his giving it over to the school that it might be placed upon the walls among the portraits of former governors and headmasters which already adorned them.
ENCOURAGING BRISTOL TRADE
Lord Winterstoke entered public life as a member of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, of which he was in successive years deputy-chairman and chairman. Subsequently, as a member of the Council of the Associated Chambers of Commerce, he took an active part in bankruptcy reform and in the attempts to secure a reduction of foreign tariffs on English goods. In 1862 he entered the Municipal Council as one of the representatives of Bristol Ward, and for some years he had by a coincidence, colleagues of the same Christian names, there being William Henry Harford, William Henry Miles, and William Henry Wills. The deceased received the support of the leaders of both political parties in being chosen a councillor, and remained representative of Bristol Ward till 1880. He held the office of High Sheriff of the city in 1877-78, and 11 years previously was appointed a justice of the peace. In 1865 he was chosen one of the charity trustees. In respect to movements for the development of the trade of Bristol, his lordship was one of that band of progressive citizens who did their utmost to supply by artificial means what the natural disadvantages of the town had to contend against as a great commercial port. The Avonmouth Dock developed out of a feeling that whereas other ports in the Bristol Channel were improving and advancing in their facilities for shipping and the trade of the world, Bristol - at one time the second port in the kingdom - was gradually but certainly receding towards a comparatively insignificant position. He was an active supporter and director of that enterprise. Lord Winterstoke became a director of the Great Western Railway Company in succession to the late Mr Michael Castle. He was chairman of the Provincial Companies Association. He was a director of the Bristol Water Works Company. His father, who was killed by an omnibus on Snow Hill during the Congregational Union meetings in the spring of 1865, had been deputy-chairman of the Bristol and Exeter Railway Company before its undertaking became amalgamated with the Great Western system. Since that event his lordship largely relinquished the personal management of the Bristol factory, and resided mainly in London or at his Somerset seat. His lordship's London residence was 25, Hyde Park Gardens, and he also had a house at St. Lawrence-on-Sea, Thanet. He was a member of the following clubs: Reform, Gresham, Royal, Thames Yacht, and National Liberal.
POLITICAL CAREER
The services of one so influential as Lord Winterstoke could not but be in request in the higher sphere of political life. Being invited to stand for Coventry at the general election of 1880, he defeated Mr Henry Eaton (afterwards Lord Cheylesmore), and sat as one of the representatives of that city till the end of 1885, prior to which, Coventry, by the new Reform Bill, lost one of its members. At the election in that year he contested South-East Essex, but was defeated by a small majority, and was again unsuccessful in the same constituency in 1886, owing to his advocacy of Home Rule for Ireland. In 1889 he was unanimously chosen as the Liberal candidate for South Bristol, in which are situated the extensive works of his company, and where he almost entirely at his own cost erected a spacious Town Hall at Bedminster. Though his friends regarded his chances of beating the sitting Conservative member, Colonel Sir Edward Hill, in 1892, as good, he was unsuccessful. When in March 1895, on the death of Sir Joseph D. Weston, the claims of Lord Winterstoke to represent East Bristol were pressed by many leading Liberals of the Division, he had to compete in acceptance by the main body with a strong favourite in Mr A. Fletcher. Mr Fletcher's address was of the most eloquent character, and at first seemed as if it would carry everything before it. The deceased, while attempting no flights of oratory, convinced those present that he was a serious politician, and one who had given a great deal of time and thought to political as well as social and commercial questions, and he scored the majority of votes. The last sentence in his speech was that he had no personal ambitions to subserve; he desired to follow in the footsteps of their late member, and he might in conclusion quote the words on the base of the statue of Burke on St. Augustine's Parade, "I wish to be a member of Parliament, that I may have my share in doing good and in preventing evil". A second vote was taken at the meeting, and Lord Winterstoke obtained more than the required two-thirds majority, and therefore became a candidate. The reference to Burke was all the more significant as his Lordship was donor of the fine statue placed in the open space, St. Augustine's, which was unveiled at his request by Lord Rosebery.
HIS COUNTRY HOME
His Lordship, who was created a baronet in 1892, married Elizabeth, the youngest daughter of Mr John Stancomb, of The Prospect, Trowbridge, in 1853, her ladyship having died in 1896. For some time he resided at 'Hillside', Cotham, near Clifton Down, and afterwards he purchased the beautiful estate, Coombe Lodge, at Blagdon, formerly the property of Captain Valpy. At this picturesque spot on the slopes of the Mendip Range, he devoted much of his leisure to agriculture. He became known as a large farmer, and as a breeder of Shorthorn pedigree stock, whose value was attested by the succession of prices they had won and the high prices they had fetched. Coombe Lodge contains some features of special interest. There is a charming terrace walk along the crest of the hill, from which lovely views, quite Swiss-like in character, can be obtained across the valley. The walk ends at a rustic thatched summer house, and from here, looking between the trees towards Burrington Hams, can be seen a picturesque tea-house erected for the convenience of picnic parties. There are interesting features in the house also. In the entrance hall Bell has told, in the inner glass doors leading from the conservatory, and which look direct across the Severn sea to Cardiff and Penarth, the story of King Henry VII granting to John Cabot the charter for the right to explore the Western Ocean, and the boy Sebastian appears as a page holding his father's train. (on the other side of the door are full length figures of Sir Francis Drake, to which tradition assigns the introduction of the potato, and Sir Walter Raleigh, who first brought tobacco into the kingdom and the West country. Crossing the hall, which contains some of the most interesting publications of the now extinct Arundel Society, the visitor enters the older part of the lodge, and passing through a vestibule finds himself in his lordship's special room - his favourite den - a long cosy apartment with low oak bookcase running round its walls, and commanding a superb view beyond the lawn across the Yeo Valley to Redhill and Butcombe. Portraits of masters and of railway colleagues hang above the bookcases, with paintings and photos intermingled in pleasant irregularity, not forgetting three very valuable and effective drawings by the late Mr F. K. Lewis, R.A.; the interior of St. Sopia at Constantinople, the approach to Scutari, and the Bazaar at Cairo, which Lord Winterstoke secured at the sale of the artist's portfolios. The drawing-rooms contain an interesting collection of paintings and drawings by Jackson, Curnock, S. P. Jackson, Muller, and Charles Branwhite, almost entirely of scenes which their owner either visited in his travels, or with which by residence, or in other ways, he had been closely associated.
ELEVATION TO THE PEERAGE
In 1905 Sir W. H. Wills was created a peer, and selected for his title Lord Winterstoke. The honour thus conferred was appreciated by Bristol citizens generally, and at the meeting of the Municipal Council, January 1st, 1906, congratulations were offered to his Lordship. He came forward specially as a benefactor to his native city as the munificent donor of the Municipal Art Gallery in Queen's Road, which has placed Bristol in line with other large commercial centres in the matter of art. In October, 1907, at the Art Gallery, in the presence of a distinguished company of his fellow citizens, Lord Winterstoke was presented with a portrait of himself. It was a happy idea that the walls of the Art Gallery should be graced by the likeness of its donor, and the willingness with which Bristolians raised the necessary funds was a testimony to the high esteem and regard in which he was held. As was truly said at the gathering, no man of his generation had done so much for his native city as Lord Winterstoke, and the crowning piece of his generosity was the handsome pile of buildings at the top of Park Street. The portrait was by Mr Hugh Riviere, and he carried out his work in an admirable manner, producing a speaking likeness of his lordship. The pose was a natural one, and the Peer's robes gave a touch of colour to the picture most pleasing. The portrait bears on a plate the following inscription - "The Right Hon. William Henry, Baron Winterstoke of Blagdon. This portrait was presented to Lord Winterstoke by his fellow-citizens in grateful acknowledgement of his munificence in the promotion of philanthropy and education. 1907".
Lord Winterstoke said he had had many experiences of the kindly feeling and goodwill of his fellow citizens during a somewhat lengthy public career in Bristol, but he never contemplated such an honour and such a reception as they had been good enough to give him that day. He need not recapitulate matters with which they were all familiar. He was proud of being a Bristolian. He had prospered in Bristol, and he was anxious that his native city should share in that prosperity. The citizens of Bristol who had visited that Gallery found it not only a source of instruction and amusement, but a source of pleasure, and he believed that his fellow-citizens, as the years went on, would do as had been done in other places, and add to the treasures which its walls contained. He believed that its influence would increase and its advantages extend, and those who came after them would bless those who had gone before for placing those resources at their disposal. He thanked them from the bottom of his heart for the portrait, and the Gallery Committee would do him the greatest honour if they would accept it and place it on their walls if they thought it worthy.
Three years previous (on the 5th July, 1904) Lord Winterstoke had been elected as honorary freeman of Bristol. The deceased nobleman gave repeated proofs of his generosity and public spirit. He evinced the warmest interest in the Nonconformist College, Taunton, and in May, 1906, the Right. Hon. Augustine Birrell laid the foundation stone of a new chapel for the college, the whole expense of which, £10,000, was borne by Lord Winterstoke. His gifts to Bristol University were munificent, and up to the time the charter was granted he had contributed £35,000.
LORD WINTERSTOKE'S HOME AT BLAGDON
The 'World' a couple of years ago dealt with the subject in its series of articles "Celebrities at Home", and the following extracts are from that source:-
"A visit to the Cheddar Valley, to Wrington Vale, to Burrington Coombe, or indeed to any of the host of interesting places nestling beneath the noble range of Mendip Hills, which for a score or more miles run across the north of Somerset, shows that Nature has been at work with marvellous results - in Cliff and cave, in hill and dale, and wood and stream, and in verdure-clad slopes and meadows; and from the elevated grounds of Coombe Lodge, the beautiful abode of Lord Winterstoke, one commands at a glance the landscape for miles around. The view westward across the rich Vale of Wrington is only bounded by the wide expanse of sea, rising from which the lofty cliffs of the Steep Holm are prominently discernible, while at night may clearly be seen the lights of the Cardiff Docks. As far as the unaided eye can scan, ancient and modern features seem to have blended with striking effect."
It is a region abounding in historic associations. In times gone by the blood of many a gallant soldier was shed in defence of his country on the slopes and in the neighbourhood of the Mendips. Collisions between Alfred the Great and the Danes are no mere fairy tales. Looking across the valley, we have the township of Wedmore, reminding us of the great treaty of peace concluded between Alfred and the Danes and all its consequences. In another direction is observed the stately tower of Wrington Church, notable, if report be true, for having been reproduced on a larger scale in the graceful Victoria Tower of the Palace of Westminster. And Wrington itself deserves a thought, as the birthplace of John Locke and the burial place of Hannah Moore.
"It is amid these inviting surroundings that Lord Winterstoke enjoys the fruits of a strenuous, busy, and signally successful business life..."
Someone has lately suggested that it would be well for the country if the Cabinet were composed of business men. In Lord Winterstoke, to employ a phrase familiar to the smoker, we have a 'judicious blend' of the politician and the commercial magnate ...
"Coombe Lodge is only one of Lord Winterstoke's abodes. Many of his 'articles de vertu' and pictures are at his town house, 25, Hyde Park Gardens, others at East Court, St. Laurence-on-Sea, Isle of Thanet. With a fondness akin to that for one's native health - his family has been identified with the West of England for many generations - he spends the greater part of his leisure at Blagdon, surrounded by all the best that thought and taste can provide. The house, commodious and happily designed, is approached through an ascending drive and a sheltering wood; a conservatory filled with exotic and flowering plants serves the further purpose of an outer lobby. Entering the house, the visitor is immediately impressed by the taste as well as the luxury of its appointments. The study is full of souvenirs of happy days spent at Westminster. Here hang collections of 'Spy cartoons and others by 'F C. G.', side by side with Cruikshank's odd drawings, and neatly-kept shelves bear witness to Lord Winterstoke's interest in literature. An outstanding feature of the room is a beautiful model of his favourite steam-yacht Sabrina. Her owner chats with much interest of many a delightful cruise in foreign waters; and it is manifest that there is a good deal of entertaining when afloat. Incidental reference is made to enjoyable excursions in company with the late Speaker of the House of Commons (Lord Selby), the late Lord Cork, Sir Joseph Lees, Mr Justice Bigham, Mr Causton (the Paymaster-General), Sir Francis Hopwood, and Mr Lucy. The apartment, it is evident, is no lounge; a pile of letters and documents on Lord Winterstoke's desk indicates that it is a workroom in a real sense. The adjacent drawing-room contains beautiful oil and water-colours. There are Jackson Curnock's picture of Hampstead Heath; a Weber, picked up in Paris; and one of Coleman's Italian studies. A tender chord is touched when attention is drawn to a fine portrait of the late Lady Wills, Lord Winterstoke's dearly-loved wife, who died in 1896. Near by, reviving happier memories, is a charming photograph of Mrs Asquith and her baby, which the Prime Minister presented to Lord Winterstoke some years ago.
"In the morning-room are Gow's striking canvas, 'The Suspicious Guest' and Ernest Croft's fine painting of the funeral of Charles the First, the original sketch for which hangs in the Bristol Art Gallery. On the walls of other rooms are valuable paintings representative of nearly every school, and some family portraits, those of Lord Winterstoke's father and grandfather occupying prominent positions. Passing on one comes to the billiard-room -an apartment much resorted to by the guests, and evidence of a favourite recreation of one's host. But, as is well-known, Lord Winterstoke has other and more substantial hobbies. He is an enthusiastic breeder of Shorthorns and Shire horses, and has established one of the completest of model farms and the daintiest of dairies. An invitation to inspect them is irresistible. In the cattle department Royal Scotsman, a bull, was bought in Aberdeenshire as a calf, and the breeder would gladly have taken it away up north again in lieu of a cheque for a thousand pounds, but the bait was not sufficiently tempting.
"There are not many estates of country gentlemen more self-contained or better occupied than that at Blagdon. The dairy, the electric-light station, the beautiful recently-completed terrace, the Dutch and kitchen gardens, and the other characteristics of an ideally comfortable and charming house surely leave very little for the heart of the hospitable owner to desire."
iently tempting.
12/05/1892
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr James Culverwell
Probate of the will has been granted, and probate duty has been paid on £437,972 7s 3d, as the value of the personal estate of Mr James Culverwell, late of Latfield House, Clifton, formerly a warehouseman in Bristol, who died on the 8th March last.
16/05/1892
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr J. Thirnbeck Grace
The will of Mr J. Thirnbeck Grace, of 14, Cotham Park, public accountant, who died on the 25th December, 1891, has been proved at £10,388 8s 9d gross, £8,929 4s 11d net.
12/08/1892
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John G. Strickland
We regret to announce the death of Mr John G. Strickland, solicitor, All Saints' Court. The deceased gentleman was in his office on Wednesday till after five o'clock in the evening, and then went to his residence, 11, Worcester Crescent, Clifton, where he expired a little before eleven o'clock. He had recently returned from Scotland, where he went for a holiday, and seemed in his usual health till Wednesday morning, when he became unwell and saw Dr. Shaw, who prescribed for him. He was 52 years of age, and leaves a wife but no children. Of a retiring disposition, Mr Strickland represented perhaps the oldest solicitor's business in Bristol, as he succeeded to a practice which must have been in his family for nearly a century and a half. About eight years ago he entered into partnership with Mr William Roberts, a well-known local practitioner, and the firm was carried on under the style of Strickland and Roberts. Till a short time ago the deceased acted a churchwarden of All Saints', Corn Street. He was actively interested in the Christian Knowledge Society, which has a depot in Park Street; and in the Bristol Association, which is affiliated to the National Benevolent Institution. He was also interested in some other societies, but did not take a prominent part in their management.
26/12/1892
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr Thomas Davies
The will of the late Mr Thomas Davies, of 110 Pembroke Road, Clifton, leather factor, who died on the April 16th last, has been under £21,600 personalty.
14/03/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Edward Payson Wills
DEATH OF SIR E. P. WILLS
SPECIAL MEMOIR
We deeply regret to announce the death of Sir Edward Payson Wills, Bart, which occurred at the residence of his daughter, at Woodside, Stoke Bishop. The deceased baronet had suffered from ill-health for many months, but not until recently did his condition give cause for great anxiety. Sir Edward was born in 1834, and was the second surviving son of the late Mr Henry Overton Wills of Bristol. His ancestors came from Cornwall and settled in Bristol nearly a century and a half ago. The family name is derived from the Rev. William Wills, a Cornish rector, who was ejected from his living at the Restoration of Charles II. The grandfather and father of Sir Edward were staunch Bristol Nonconformists. Mr H. O. Wills, the grandfather, was the intimate friend and co-labourer of Rowland Hill and Robert Hall. Sir Edward's father, also Mr H. O. Wills, gave proof of his ardour as a Dissenter by the support which he gave to Bristol Tabernacle, Highbury, and Redland Park Chapels. He was looked to especially when the function of laying the foundation stone of a new chapel or school had to be laid, and his collection of silver trowels resulting from these engagements was large and interesting, judging by the inscriptions.
Sir Edward married in 1858 Miss Mary Ann Pearce, the eldest daughter of the late Mr J. Chaning Pearce, F.G.S., of Montague House, Bath, and was predeceased by his wife, who died in 1891. The deceased was a member of the well-known tobacco manufacturing firm of Messrs W. D. and H. O. Wills when the business was carried on in Mary-le-port Street, and he was made a director of the Imperial Tobacco Company of Great Britain and Ireland, when the amalgamation of the important undertakings involved took place.
In 1899 Sir Edward was created K.C.B. by the late Queen Victoria as a recognition of his generous gift of the building and grounds for the Convalescent Home. He will probably be recollected principally on account of his liberality in connection with the Convalescent Home. In February, 1897, there was a meeting of influential citizens to commemorate the conclusion of the sixtieth year of the reign of Queen Victoria. It was agreed that a Convalescent Home should be established at a cost of about £50,000. Shortly afterwards it was announced that Mr H. O. Wills and Mr E. P. Wills had offered £10,000 each provided that the above-mentioned amount for the Convalescent Home was obtained in full. Some subscriptions were increased, and Mr E. P. Wills increased his amount to £20,000 by the purchase of Wyanflete House, Durdham Down, built a few years previously for a boarding school. When the total sum promised for the Convalescent Home had realized £80,000, it was decided to make a further effort to raise the aggregate to £100,000. Mr E. P. Wills contributed £5,000 to this object. When, on November 15th, 1899, Queen Victoria, visited Bristol for the purpose of opening the Home, Mr E. P. Wills (President of the Home), who had been presented to her Majesty by the Lord Mayor, handed her a gold and jewelled letter weight, enamelled with the Royal Arms, her Majesty's monogram, the arms of Bristol, and a view of the Council House. In the centre was a diamond button, to which an electric wire was attached, and the Queen pressing the button, the great door of the Convalescent Home flew open. Mr E. P. Wills, who had received the intimation that he would forthwith become a Knight Commander of the Bath, in honour of the visit of the Queen, held a reception at the Victoria Rooms, assisted by his daughter. Nearly a thousand guests were invited, including the nobility and gentry of the neighbouring counties, the Bishops of Bristol, Bath and Wells, Hereford, and Clifton, the Mayors and Mayoresses of many neighbouring towns, and the officers of the army, navy, and volunteers, whose forces so largely contributed to the success of the day's pageant. Sir Edward remained president of the Home till his death.
He received his baronetcy in 1904. He was a justice of the peace for the county of Gloucester, a member of the Executive Committee of the training ship Formidable. He was also a local director of the Northern Assurance Company, whose branch office is in the Exchange. He unsuccessfully contested St. Mary Redcliff Ward for the seat in the Municipal Council in 1880, and Bedminster West in 1883. In the year 1880 he was President of the Anchor Society.
In various ways Sir Edward rendered assistance to local Church efforts. In 1893 there was a meeting convened at the Chapter House, Bristol, at the instance of the Bishop, in order to consider the desirability of taking steps to extend the inadequate Church accommodation in various populous districts. Towards this object Sir Edward contributed £1,000. In February of last year Sir Edward placed the sum of £15,000 at the disposal of the Bishop of the Diocese. One-third of the gift was allotted by the donor to the redemption of the mortgage on the Episcopal residence, including all payments of interest and of portions of capital. The Bishop and his successors were hence freed from this burden. The remaining £10,000 was allotted to Church purposes within the diocese. In consultation with the donor and members of the donor's family, it was decided that £2,000 should be given to head the appeal for a church at St. Ambrose, Rose Green, and that £8,000 should be invested to form a permanent "Wills Fund", from which the Bishop and his successors might improve the income of benefices in their gift and quicken the flow of promotion in the diocese by augmenting their patronage and assisting aged incumbents of benefices in their gift to retire on pensions.
At the time the subject of the University of Bristol was being rapidly and urgently pushed forward, Sir Edward's eldest son, Mr Edward Chaning Wills, gave a subscription of £10,000 to the University fund.
In addition to his residence at Stoke Bishop, Sir Edward was the owner of Clapton Manor, Somerset.
At his domain, Hazlewood, Stoke Bishop, Sir Edward took pleasure in farming upon a moderate scale. He was fond of animals, especially horses, and took an especial pleasure in securing possession of any horse that took his fancy, if he thought it was for sale. though living in an unobtrusive fashion, he kept in touch with many public movements, and when the Bristol Association held its meeting in Bristol, in 1898, he gave a garden party at his residence.
06/02/1891
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William P. Hudden
We regret to announce the death of Mr William. P. Hudden, the sad event taking place on Wednesday, at his residence, Caledonia Place, Clifton. The deceased gentleman, who was 58 years of age, was principal member of the firm of Hudden and Co., tobacco manufacturers, Bristol and London, and in 1889 was made a magistrate for the city of Bristol.
05/05/1891
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Russell
The death is announced of Mr William Russell, of the firm of W. Russell and Co., corn merchants, of St. George's Road. the deceased who was 75 years of age was, we are informed, the 'father' of the corn trade in Bristol.
15/02/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Arthur Lee
DEATH OF MR ARTHUR LEE
A PROMINENT BRISTOL MERCHANT
BRILLIANT CAREER TERMINATED IN LONDON
The sudden death of Mr Arthur Lee, managing director of Arthur Lee Bros., Ltd., marble merchants, of Bristol and London, will come as a great shock to his numerous intimate friends in many circles of life in Bristol. For the past three years Mr Lee had resided in London, and it was at his metropolitan residence, 37, Woodville Gardens, Ealing, that he died. Although his removal from Bristol somewhat reduced his activity in public affairs, he not infrequently visited the city, where in earlier years he had made, and always retained, a reputation as a gentleman of sound commercial instincts and estimable personal qualities. His interest in the city did not fade with the change of his residence from Berkeley Square, Clifton, to London, and he was frequently to be seen at business meetings, or on the magisterial bench, he having been a justice of the peace for the past eleven years.
The deceased gentleman, who was 57 years of age, was the son of the late Mr William Lee, a Devonshire gentleman, who took a considerable part in public affairs in Bristol, and was in the City Council for some time. In his younger days, Mr Arthur Lee was a successful athlete, and the activity and briskness which this generated were always noticeable in his manner in later years. The branch of sport which commended itself to him was that of rowing, and nearly 40 years ago he was a member of the Bristol Ariel Rowing Club. He was recognised as one of the best oarsmen in the West of England, and in 1873 he, with Messrs Sawnders, Adams, and Blew, won the City Challenge Vase at Saltford Regatta, for the first time. It is a curious coincidence that his death should occur 36 years later on Saltford Regatta day. Later in life, the bicycle supplied his principal form of exercise.
Mr Arthur Lee was a man of 'many parts' and his interest, amounting frequently to enthusiasm, took him into social, literary, scientific, commercial, and political circles, while even as an amateur actor he showed marked ability, and many will recollect the skill he displayed in his occasional appearances at the theatre. From an early age he was a member of the old Parliamentary Debating Society, and no doubt the experience gained with that body qualified him to become an able debater upon the subjects on which he subsequently specialised. His work of a social character was given considerable scope during the time he was hon. secretary of the Park Row Industrial School for Boys. He was strikingly gifted with his pen, and contributed many articles on literary, scientific, political, and commercial subjects to newspapers and magazines. These included a series of letters to the 'Western Daily Press' in 1887 and 1890 on Irish affairs, and they were the outcome of visits made by him to the 'Emerald Isle'. His book on 'Marble and Marble Workers' - a subject on which he was well qualified to write - obtained a very wide circulation, not only in Great Britain, but in America, Mr J. C. Branner, the State Geologist of Arkansas, frequently quoting from it in his report of the geological resources of that State.
Mr Lee's commercial activities were by no means confined to the particular trade with which he was directly associated, and he brought a keen intellect to bear on the many problems of commerce. The fruits of these studies he from time to time gave to Bristol merchants, through the medium of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, and to commercial men of the county generally though the Associated Chambers. His association with the local chamber extended over a great many years, and a more energetic member that body could not have. After being vice-president, he filled the presidential chair in 1901. He was a strong advocate of the compulsory adoption of the metric system of weight and measures, and on behalf on the Bristol association brought the matter before the Associated Cambers in London, where it was unanimously carried. In this direction, therefore, he did his part to bring to a practical issue a proposal of importance of which was long recognised by members of the British Association.
Another subject to which Mr Lee devoted much attention was that of Banking and Currency. His reply to Lord Farrar on "Legal Tender" was adopted as the official reply of the Bi-Metallic League, of which body he was at one time a member of the Executive Council, and vice-president of the West of England branch. He read a paper on "The Currency Question in the United States, and its Bearing on British Interests", before the Economic Section of the British Association, at Liverpool, in 1896. This paper was largely circulated in the United States. He was an able supporter of the propagandism on this question of currency undertaken by the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. Year after year resolutions on the question were sent from Bristol to the Associated Chambers, and in view of the discussions Mr Lee spent much time in collecting facts and figures bearing upon a complicated subject and in mastering the various details. The results were published in book form, and commanded much attention. At the London meeting of the Association, in March 1908, Sir Albert Rollit acknowledged the services which Mr Lee and the Bristol Chamber had rendered to the commercial and mercantile community in drawing attention to the administration of financial institutions like the Bank of England. On that occasion Mr Lee took charge of the Bristol resolution, which was adopted, and he and Mr J. H. Howell, of Bristol, were appointed members of a special committee instructed to carry it into effect. This resolution referred to the need of the Bank of England publishing periodical returns of balances, bills discounted, etc., and as the bank replied that they could not comply with the request, further action was deemed desirable. At the Cardiff meeting of the Associated Chambers, in September, 1908, he again took charge of the Bristol resolution which called for the appointment of a committee to take into consideration the restrictive laws relating to currency and banking in the United Kingdom, and their effect upon the trade and commerce of the country. The resolution was carried, and a committee appointed, Mr Lee and Mr Howell being two of its members. This committee prepared an exhaustive report, and, in the absence of Mr Faithfull Begg, the chairman of the committee, it fell to Mr A. Lee's lot to introduce it at the meeting of the Associated Chambers in London in March last. This he did with customary ability, and the result was that further progress has been made in the direction desired, the position being that the recommendations of the committee are to be discussed by financial experts prior to March next, when they will be again brought before the Associated Chambers. Mr Lee attended one of the series of lectures given in the spring in Bristol, by Prof. H. B. Lees Smith, on the subject, and expressed his views, during the discussion which followed the lecture. Another subject on which he specialised in connection with the Bristol Chamber was that of canal development, and he also brought this matter before the Associated Chambers. It is no doubt chiefly due to his advocacy that the present Royal Commission was appointed to investigate the matter. On the occasion of the visit of the British Association to Bristol, Mr Lee was recognised as possessing just qualities to fit him for the possession of local hon. secretary, an office which he jointly filled with Mr Bertram Rogers with conspicuous ability. For many years he was closely connected with the political organisations of the city. Prior to the split of 1886, he was a Liberal, but became the first secretary of the Bristol Liberal Unionist Association, which was formed in that year. He was also at one time one of the hon. secretaries of the Bristol North Unionist Club. For a number of years he was a member of the City Council, but retired in 1903 owing to pressure of business. Mr Lee was a Unitarian, and during his residence in this city was a regular attendant at Lewin's Mead Meeting.
08/07/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Day Wills
DEATH OF MR SAMUEL DAY WILLS
We regret to announce that Mr Samuel Day Wills died yesterday morning in his 73rd year, at his residence, Stainmoor, Pembroke Road, Clifton. The deceased was the son of the late Mr H. O. Wills, brother of the late Sir Frederick Wills, Sir Edward Payson Wills, and Mr H. O. Wills, and half brother of Mr Frank Wills, Mr Grahame Wills, and Mr Stephen Wills, and cousin of Lord Winterstoke. Born at Bristol on March 14th, 1837, Mr Samuel Day Wills was educated at Taunton and Amersham. He first married Miss Elizabeth Granger Bourne, daughter of Mr W. T. Bourne, of Walker Hall, Staindrop, Durham, and secondly Miss Eva Blanche Tubbs, fourth daughter of Mr C. F. Tubbs, of Beechfield, near Plymouth. He had seven children by his first wife, and one child by his second wife. For many years he was in business as an oil and colour merchant, joining an old firm in Castle Green. It was carried on by William Evans and Company, and afterwards by Hurndall, Hellier, and Wills. The deceased quitted the business about even or eight years ago, his place being filled by his son, Mr Norman Wills. Another son, Mr Harold Wills, was at Cambridge University, where he took his degree, and then for a short time was in business. He, however, determined to become a missionary, and has laboured with success at Trivaudrum in South India. The deceased was very prominently identified with the congregational Church movement in Bristol, and gave liberally to the support of its churches and other agencies. He was chiefly identified with Redland Park Church, having left the Clifton Down Church to support the ministry of the late Rev. Urijah Thomas. The Wills family were largely responsible for the erection of the sanctuary at Redland Park, the late Messrs W. D. Wills (father of Lord Winterstoke) and H. O. Wills, after the opening services, contributing a substantial amount in order that the church might be opened free from debt. For forty years Mr S. D. Wills was deacon, and some time ago he and the late Mr Wilberforce Tribe were made honorary deacons. The deceased was always in the front when any movement was started in connection with the church, and he became from the commencement treasurer of the Urijah Thomas's Memorial Ministers' Seaside Home of Rest at Morthoe, North Devon, an institution which has been widely appreciated by pastors, who there enjoyed well-earned holidays. A sphere of work which commended itself greatly to Mr S. D. Wills was that in connection with the Young Men's Christian Association. His name occurs in the list of members as the 192nd, and for many years he acted as treasurer, interesting himself much in the jubilee celebration in 1903, when Mr Joseph Storrs fry completed his twenty-fifth year as president, and Mr Henry Daniel and Mr James Inskip, who had long served the association, were honorary secretaries. The deceased was a magistrate for the city of Bristol, having been appointed to a seat on the bench in 1881. His cousin, Lord Winterstoke, appointed in 1866, is the oldest city magistrate. The sympathies of the deceased were wide, and he was connected in the management of many undertakings. He became treasurer of the Congregational Extension Committee, was associated in the control of the Convalescent Home on Durdham Down, and the Home of Rest on Durdham Down. He was a president of the Anchor Society, a director of the London Missionary Society, member of the committee of the Bristol Dispensary, chairman (1899) of the Congregational County Union of Gloucestershire and Herefordshire, member of the committee of the Congregational Union of England and Wales, and deacon of Kingsland Congregational Church, Bristol. In 1875 he was elected a Fellow of the Chemical Society. The deceased travelled extensively on the Continent, and also in the United States, India, Egypt, and other places. He suffered of late years from heart disease, and had expressed a wish to retire to a quiet country spot, but this desire was not to be carried into effect for he passed away more speedily that had been anticipated. His loss will be mourned generally, as he not only gave his services readily in support of any cause which commended itself to him but he also contributed liberally where pecuniary assistance was needed.
23/05/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr August Krauss
DEATH OF MR A. KRAUSS
The numerous friends of Mr August Krauss, the well-known builder and contractor, will regret to learn that he died on Saturday evening, at his residence, Priory Road, Tyndall's Park, after an illness extending over many weeks. Mr Krauss, who was known for many years in connection with important undertakings in various parts of the country, was the son of Ignato Krauss. His early years were spent in Germany, where he was born at Schwalbach, near Frankfort-on-Main, in 1842. He came to Bristol about 40 years ago, and for some years carried on business in Colston Street, afterwards having his workshops and yard at Lawrence Hill. A shrewd man of business, he was led to see in the agitation going forward to give comfort to cabmen and provide them with covering during inclement weather an opportunity to make a start in what was then a novel direction. Hence he constructed cabmen's shelters in various parts of Bristol, and he used to say that he regarded this as his first work of any importance. When the local tramways came to be laid he had developed a business as contractor upon a considerable scale, and under Mr Kincaid, the engineer consulted by the company, he was instrumental in the construction of many of the lines owned by the Bristol Company. He also did tramway work elsewhere through Mr Kincaid, and left no stone unturned to succeed in his enterprise as a contractor. Finding that tenders were invited for a line, of which Mr Kincaid was engineer, he started early one morning for London to submit estimates to him, preparing figures in the train so that he might be ready to place them before the engineer at his office. Amongst the many large contracts carried out by Mr Krauss may be instanced the Newport, Darleston, York, and Bath tramways. Prominent in the undertakings with which the name of the deceased will always be associated is the Weston-super-Mare sea-front improvements, which have been such a source of attraction to visitors at that favourite watering place. When the first section had been completed great rejoicings were indulged in by the large crowds assembled, and Mr Krauss, who invited the leading men of the town to a luncheon held near the shore, was warmly congratulated upon the success of his work. When another section came to be constructed he had to contend against difficulties on account of the tempestuous weather that prevailed during a portion of the time, and in a violent gale much of his work was washed away. Ultimately, however, the sea front came to be completed to the satisfaction of the town commissioners. For a few years Mr Krauss resided at Weston-super-Mare, in a large house near Ellenborough Park. He had married Miss Alice Ellcott of London, and during a long time she suffered from a spinal complaint, and a stay at Weston-super-Mare was recommended by her medical advisor. Locally Mr Krauss was the contractor for an important project, covering the water space from the Stone Bridge to the Drawbridge, and in place of the latter antiquated structure, building St. Augustine's Bridge. He also was responsible for the erection of the spacious temporary structure on the site in which there was a fine industrial exhibition that formed a great attraction for some months. In respect to the construction of waterworks, the deceased became almost as well known as in the laying of tramways, and he was successful in his operations at Bridgwater, Frome, and Highbridge besides carrying out a large contract in Somerset for the Bristol Water Company. He was responsible for some extensive structures, and in this city he built the Constitutional Club premises in St. Stephen Street and the Carlton Chambers. In his own trade he had filled high positions, having been vice-president of the Bristol Master Builders' Association in 1884 and 1892, and the president of that association in 1893, 1896 and 1898. He was also founder and president of the West of England Federation of Builders. An ardent Freemason, he was a member of the Royal Clarence Lodge. He was fond of outdoor amusements and a keen sportsman. For many years he spent his holidays on Dartmoor, where he constructed a rude dwelling, and in company with certain friends of his large circle, he enjoyed shooting and fishing. His son has developed great enterprise in respect to the occupation of a builder and contractor, and can boast of much experience in America. Of his daughters, one has developed talent as an artist. The wife of the deceased has been dead several years.
15/02/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Arthur Baker
DEATH OF MR ARTHUR BAKER
Bristol has lost a prominent citizen in Mr Arthur Baker, whose death we regret to announce, took place at his residence, Henbury Hill House, yesterday. The news will come as a painful surprise to many Bristolians, for Mr Baker was sufficiently well to be in the city on Friday. On the day previous to that he was present at the annual meeting of the Bristol Clergy Society, held at the Lecture Hall of Emmanuel Church, Clifton, and in speaking to a resolution, bore testimony to the help the society had received from the late Sir Robert Symes. It was not until Saturday that Mr Baker was taken ill, and he passed away yesterday about noon. Mr Baker, who was 67 years of age, was the son of the late Mr William Baker, corn merchant and miller of this city. He was born on June 27th, 1841, and was educated at the Bristol Grammar School. Entering his father's office in 1857 he, nine years later, became a partner in the firm of Messrs William Baker and Sons, and when in 1890 the firm was amalgamated with that of Spiller and Co., Ltd, Cardiff, under the name of Spillers and Baker, Limited, he was made a director of the company. As is well known, this is one of the largest milling and corn trade businesses in the United Kingdom, with mills in Bristol, Cardiff, and Newcastle-on-Tyne. In 1892 he became chairman of the company, and held a similar position in the firm of Messrs. Hudden and Company, Limited, tobacco manufacturers. He was one of the local directors of the Royal Insurance Company, and was also a director of the Taff Vale Railway Company, the half-yearly meeting of which he attended in Bristol on Tuesday. Although at the time of his death he was not a member of the City Council he served the city of his birth on that body for many years, being returned for the ward of Redcliff as far back as 1874. He served on most of the important Corporation committees, and was chairman of the Traffic Sub-Committee of the Docks Committee.
Educational, religious, philanthropical and political work also claimed Mr Baker's interests. In 1869 he became a member of the Society of Merchant Venturers, and filled the office of warden in 1873, and that of master in 1875. In politics he was a Conservative, and filled for some time the position of chairman of the Conservative Association in Bristol South. For several years he was a churchwarden at St. Mary Redcliff, and took a leading part in the movement for the restoration of the church. He was a lay member of the Bristol Diocesan Conference, and a member of the committee of the Bristol Diocesan branch of the Queen Victoria Clergy Fund. The deceased gentleman was treasurer and one of the managers of the church schools of the parish of St. Mary Redcliff, and was also a governor of Colston's Hospital and Colston's Girl School. He was a member of the Committee of Management of the Merchant Venturers' Technical College, and in his capacity of one of the governors of the Grammar School, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and the Red Maids' School. He was also on the committee of the Bristol General Hospital. Mr Baker was a justice of the peace for the city and county of Bristol, and in 1892-3 occupied the position of Sheriff. It is interesting to recall that he was one of the earliest members of the Volunteer force, having joined the 1st Gloucester Volunteer Rifles in 1859. Mr Baker married in 1866, Amy Mary, the eldest daughter of the late Mr Charles Joseph Vining, of Bristol and Backwell, Somerset.
04/10/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Miller
DEATH OF MR JOHN MILLER
A LONG AND HONOURED CAREER
It is with regret that Mr John Miller on Sunday passed away, at the age of 83 years, at his residence, Freshford Villa, Richmond Hill. The deceased gentleman, who during many years was one of the best-known solicitors in Bristol, was articled to the late Mr Henry Abbot (whose practice is now carried on by Messrs Abbot, Pope, Brown, and Abbot). He was admitted a solicitor in 1850, and soon gained an extensive practice. For 25 years he remained professional advisor to the Bristol and West of England Trade Protection Society, of which Mr Matthew Dunlop was president and Mr Parsons secretary. He also for some time acted in the same capacity in connection with the Great Western Colliery Company, at first by himself, and subsequently in conjunction with Mr James Inskip. Mr Miller was associated with the pioneers of tramway enterprise in Bristol, a movement in which he was interested being afterwards developed and successfully carried on by gentlemen for whom Messrs Stanley and Wesbrough acted. During his career the deceased became a familiar figure in the old Bankruptcy Court at the Guildhall, over which Mr M. D. Hill presided as commissioner, and also in the County Court after the former tribunal ceased to exist. For a time his office remained in the Albion Chambers (the rooms which Mr Sinnott, solicitor, at present, occupies); then he removed to Whitson Chambers, which were situated on the site of that handsome structure in Nicholas Street, the present Stock Exchange. In 1882 he came to St. Stephen's Chambers, being the first to occupy a set of offices in New Baldwin Street.
Mr Miller had a unique position among local solicitors on account of the many appointments he held. He was commissioner for affidavits, examining witnesses, etc., in the superior court of Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South-West Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Cape Colony, and the superior court of Bengal and Bombay. In respect to the legal profession, he did all in his power to uphold its dignity, and in consequence he enjoyed the esteem of those solicitors with whom he was brought into contact. He made a practice of attending the meetings of the Bristol Incorporated Law Society, and acted as a member of the council as long as his health permitted. In the report of the council for 1908 there occurred the following:- "It is now exactly 50 years since Mr Miller was elected a member of the former Bristol Law Library Society, and since the formation of the present society in 1871, he has continually been a member of the council, except for a period of one year in 1873, and a period of three years from 1876 to 1879, during which, under the then existing articles of association, he was not eligible. For the last 29 years his membership of the council has, therefore, been uninterrupted. While taking an active interest in every matter that came before the council, the library was for many years a special object of his attention, and the grateful thanks not only of his colleagues, but also of the whole profession in Bristol, are due to him for his assiduous care for everything that tended to maintain the honour and integrity of the profession." The deceased continued in active practice till 1904, when he retired, though still taking out his certificate, which, indeed, he continued to do till his death. In 1905 Messrs Meade-King and Sons took over his practice, and the firm was known as John Miller and Co. Then other partners joined, and the present style is Messrs Meade-King, Cooke, Wansey, and John Miller. The deceased was of an eminently kindly disposition, and that he possessed characteristics which rendered him esteemed by those in his service was shown by the fact that Mr J. Bucknell, his managing clerk, remained with him during many years, and that Mr Edwin Crosby, who succeeded him as managing clerk on his death, came as a boy of 14, in 1867, to Mr Miller's office, and holds an important position with the present firm.
14/01/1910
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edwin Larcombe
THE LATE MR EDWIN LARCOMBE
We regret to announce the death of Mr Edwin Larcombe, which occurred on Wednesday morning after a long illness at his residence, 503, Stapleton Road. The deceased was well known and highly respected in friendly society and Volunteer circles. For nearly half-a-century he had been an active worker in connection with the Bristol District of the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows. He served the office of Unity auditor, and might have been a member of the Board of Directors many years ago had his ambitions influenced him in that direction. He was a man of great administrative ability, who had a thorough grasp of all important questions relating to the government of the Order, and his valuable services will be greatly missed. Mr Larcombe's career in Oddfellowship dates back to April, 1862, when, at the age of 20 years, he joined the Great Britain lodge at Bristol. He joined the Past Grands' Lodge in 1864, serving the offices of Notary, Vice-Excelsior, and Grand Excelsior in 1870, 1871, and 1872 respectively. He transferred from the Great Britain Lodge to the Friendly Mechanics' Lodge in February, 1866, served the lodge chairs in 1867 and 1868, was elected Provincial Deputy Grand Master in 1869, and Grand Master in 1870. He was chairman of the Oddfellows' Hall Committee from its inception until the opening of the building in Rupert Street, Bristol, in 1872. He served as Noble Grand and Grand Master of the Thornbury Castle Lodge in the year of its opening, 1870, and successively filled the offices of vice-president and president of the District Widow and Orphans' Fund in 1870 and 1871, and was trustee of that fund from 1872 until it merged into the District in 1877. He was permanent secretary of the Avon Lodge in 1874 and 1875, receiving a presentation of a gold Albert, with locket, from that lodge on his retirement. He was appointed permanent secretary of the mother lodge of the district - the Great Western - in 1887, and of the District Juvenile Society when it was formed in 1894, and of the Brotherly Love Lodge in July 1894. He was presented with a writing desk, suitably inscribed, in 1895, by the members of the Brotherly Love Lodge, and in 1896 the Great Western Lodge recognised his invaluable services as permanent secretary by presenting him with a gold watch and a P.P.G.M. jewel, the then Grand Master of the Unity, Bro. Wm. Orford White, making the presentation on behalf of the lodge. He was the first Noble Grand of the Thomas Adams Lodge, Staple Hill, in 1893, and was one of the trustees.
For twenty years he was one of the District Examiners of Lodge Books, from which position he retired in 1894; and in 1897, on the resignation by Mr Thomas Adams of the office of Prov C. S. - which the veteran Oddfellow had held for 47 years - the choice fell unanimously on Bro. Larcombe, and the District had had every reason to be satisfied with its choice, for the new Prov. C. S. carried out his duties most efficiently. His great desire was to see the whole of the lodges in the District Management Committee entrusted him with the preparation of a scheme for relieving the lodges which showed considerable deficiency on the valuations of a portion of their liabilities, on the condition that the lodges themselves co-operated in the effort to improve their financial positions. The scheme drafted by the Prov C.S. was approved by the District and the Unity valuers, and has been in operation with very satisfactory results. Other reforms carried through during his tenure of office includes the payment of full table benefits in the district, the doctors' interchange, and the lodge investment scheme, which is proving very useful to members. From time to time Bro. Larcombe contributed to useful discussions on various subjects connected with friendly society work; and he was one of the witnesses examined before Lord Rothchild's Commission on the question of old-age pensions. He represented his District at many A.M.C.'s. At the Bristol A.M.C., in 1896, he was chosen Unity auditor, which office he served for the usual period. In carrying out the arrangements for the Bristol A.M.C. he acted as general secretary, and was also secretary of the executive and finance, and lodgings committees, and his services were recognised by the presentation of a handsomely-carved bookcase. He resigned his secretaryship of the Great Western Lodge about six months ago owing to failing health, and he had also sent in his resignation of the office of Corresponding Secretary of the District. Taking a broad view of friendly society work, Bro. Larcombe identified himself with the interests of other societies. He was an honorary member of the A.O.F., and on the formation of the Bristol District Friendly Societies' Council in 1900, he was elected vice-president, succeeding to the office of president in the following March. He was adopted by the Council as their candidate at the School Board election in January, 1901, and was duly elected.
Mar Larcombe rendered good service in connection with the Volunteers. He joined the Bristol Rifles at the age of 17, in the year 1859, when the late Volunteer movement commenced, transferred to the Bristol Engineers in 1878, and rose to the rank of Regimental Quarter Master-Sergeant, retiring in 1891 (having reached the age limit) after more than 32 years' service, and receiving the Volunteer long-service medal. Sympathy will be felt for Mrs Larcombe and the members of the family in their bereavement.
19/02/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Frederick Wills
DEATH OF SIR FREDERICK WILLS
A DISTINGUISHED CAREER
We regret to announce that another prominent Bristolian has passed away in Sir Frederick Wills, Bart., a gentleman who, in the course of the allotted span of three score years and ten, served this city as a town councillor, a member of Parliament, and in other ways, in addition to being identified with the direction of one of the leading businesses of the city. Sir Frederick underwent an operation some while ago for an internal complaint, and appeared to derive considerable benefit therefrom.At the annual meeting of the Imperial Tobacco Company on Tuesday, Mr Mayo Gunn announced that he was recovering from his illness, but on Wednesday, while staying at Cannes, Sir Frederick suffered a serious relapse, and though hopes were entertained as to his recovery, the sad news reached Bristol yesterday afternoon that he had died that morning from heart failure. Lady Wills was with her husband when he passed away. Deceased was born in Bristol on the 21st November, 1838, and was the seventh son of the late Mr Henry Overton Wills, of Cotham Park. Sir Frederick was educated at the Independent College, Taunton, and at Amersham School (Mr West's), Buckinghamshire. Upon completing his school studies, he came straight to business in Bristol, becoming identified with the well known firm of tobacco manufacturers, Messrs W. D. and H. O. Wills, of which his father was a partner. This famous house is the oldest one engaged in the tobacco trade in Bristol. It has been established considerably over a century and a half. Sir Frederick remained in Bristol in connection with the firm until 1864, when he went to London to undertake the management of the Metropolitan branch of the concern, which had just been founded. He continued in this capacity up to the year 1874, and under his capable guidance, and with his keen foresight, the branch developed considerably, and served to extend the already large ramifications of the firm. Upon leaving London, Mr Frederick Wills, as he was then, returned to his native city, and assumed the management of the Bristol business. The city secured him for four years as one of the representatives for Bedminster West Ward, being returned unopposed. In the year 1889 he once more went to London to resume the control of the firm's operations there, and five years later, in 1894, he retired from active work in connection with the concern, upon it being converted into a private limited liability company. In 1897 he was created a Baronet by Lord Salisbury, in consideration of the services he had rendered to the Unionist party on many occasions. He also filled various public offices, notably on the Governing Body of the Bristol Cathedral School, on the Council of the Bristol University College, the committee of the General Hospital, and in the year 1882 he filled the position of President of the Anchor Society, when his collection amounted to the handsome sum of £1001.
HIS POLITICAL CAREER
The reference to the Anchor Society introduces the fact that deceased was at that time a Gladstonian Liberal, thus following the tradition of the Wills family. But when Mr Gladstone introduced his Home Rule Bill in 1885, he felt he could no longer endorse the views of the Liberal Chief, and he thereupon joined the Unionist body.
At the general election in 1895, deceased made his first essay into Parliament, contesting the Launceston division of Cornwall as a Unionist, against Mr Thomas Owen, also a Bristolian, who was the sitting member. Mr Owen had been returned at the previous election with a majority of nearly a thousand; but Mr Wills reduced the figures by between 300 and 400, the result being: T. Owen, 3633; F. Wills, 2975. Under the circumstances in which he entered the contest, Mr Wills had little expectation of being returned, and the reduction of the majority was considered full payment for the trouble of fighting the seat. In 1898, Mr Owen met his death in a painful manner at his Welsh residence, and Sir Frederick again came forward to contest the constituency; but the Gladstonians had secured the services of Mr Fletcher Moulton, undoubtedly a strong candidate for a Cornish constituency, and Sir Frederick for the second time suffered defeat. It was in 1900 that Sir Frederick became a member of Parliament for his native city, succeeding the Right Hon. Lewis Fry as representative of Bristol North. In his address he rightly claimed "all his life to have been closely identified with the commerce of our great city, to have the strongest possible interest in her prosperity". He defeated Sir Clarence Smith by 754 votes, the poll resulting - Sir Frederick Wills, 4936; Sir Clarence Smith, 4182. On account of indifferent health, he retired from parliamentary life in 1906, when Mr J. A. Foote, K.C., became the Unionist candidate, and lost the seat to the Right Hon. Augustine Birrell. While in Parliament, though not prone to rush into debate, Sir Frederick by his knowledge and his kindly shrewdness, enabled Mr Austen Chamberlain to keep from going wholly wrong over his new tobacco duties. To the representation of their case by the hon. baronet the luckless holders of 'stripped' tobacco secured a 0.5d rebate on the amount of 'strip' they held in bond before the Budget. But Sir Frederick himself would have gone further by drawing the line altogether at the tobacco in bond. It was this halving of the concession that caused Sir Frederick, neatly turning a phrase by Sir Conan Doyle to its own improvement, to insist that "what is morally wrong can never become politically right". Sir Frederick was often taken as a shy man, but when he once warmed to his subject, he proceeded with excellent force and precision of detail. Naturally, on tobacco he was everything that the man thirsting after information could desire.
HOBBIES AND PHILANTHROPY
Sir Frederick took great interest in art and music. He was president of the Society of Bristol Gleemen, and frequently sang with them. On evidence of the desire for the welfare of the society was seen in the presentation of a new orchestra. For some years he was hon. secretary of the Bristol School of Art, Queen's Road, in which he succeeded his cousin, Sir William Henry Wills (now Lord Winterstoke). In his early days he was an enthusiastic rowing man, and he always took a great interest in fishing and yachting. A few years ago he was the owner of the celebrated schooner Amphitrite, and was successful in winning several prizes with her, notably in a race with the crack American schooner Yampa, at Cowes. The immense excitement at Cowes when this race was decided in favour of Sir Frederick's craft was very memorable. In 1893 he entered her in the Royal Thames Yacht Club race from the Nore to Dover, against Britannia, Valkyrie, Calluna, and Satania. Amphitrite did well while the wind lasted, but when it came to drifting she was left far behind. Amphitrite was an excellent sea boat, and Sir Frederick did a great deal of cruising in her in the Mediterranean and elsewhere.
As we already mentioned, Sir Frederick was a director of the Imperial Tobacco Company, and was re-elected at Tuesday's meeting. Like all members of the Wills family, he was a generous contributor to philanthropic objects. He built a wing to Bournemouth Hospital in memory of his eldest son, and gave a library to Guy's Hospital at a cost of £5000. Towards the Bristol University scheme he at first contributed £5000, but subsequently gave another £5000 in order that his donation might be the means of endowing a chair in the University. Sir Frederick also took great interest in the University College Colston Society, becoming president in the third year of its existence, 1902 when the collection amounted to the substantial sum of £414 14s.
Sir Frederick married in 1867, Anne, the eldest daughter of the late Rev. James Hamilton, D.D., F.L.S. He had a beautifully-situated residence at Northmoor, Dulverton, in the Exmoor country, and at Manor Heath, Bournemouth, and his London address was Kensington Palace Gardens. His clubs were the Reform, Gresham, and Royal Thames Yacht. He was a breeder of Devon cattle at Northmoor, Dulverton, and he had a farm at Houndsley, near Winterbourne. Some of his cattle were sold yesterday at Taunton. He was a member of Devon and Somerset Hunt Committee, and his eldest son is a member of Dulverton Foxhounds, the immediate meets of which have been cancelled. When in Bristol Sir Frederick resided at Avonwood, Clifton Down, and Lord Winterstoke (his cousin) occupied Hawthorden, the adjoining residence. Deceased leaves a widow, two sons, and three daughters. His eldest son, Mr A. H. Hamilton Wills, died some years ago, and the surviving eldest son is Mr G. A. H. Wills, who was born in 1880, the other son being Mr Noel H. Wills. The daughters are Mrs Douglas Hamilton, whose husband is a member of the well known Hamilton family, Mrs Fellowes, and Miss Kathleen Wills. Mr Frank Wills, who is in Jamaica, is agent for Sir Frederick, and Mr H. W. Secombe Wills is agent for the Dulverton Estate.
15/07/1887
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Terrell
Probate has been granted of the will of Mr William Terrell, late of Cambridge Park, Redland, Bristol, J.P., who died on the 1st May last, and the gross value of whose personal estate has been declared at £23,556 13s 3d.
09/09/1887
Western Daily Press
Will
Miss Anne Redman
The will, dated 22nd January, 1886, has been proved of Miss Anne Redman, late of No. 26, College Green, Bristol, who died on the 7th April last, at about £3500 personalty.
20/12/1887
Western Daily Press
Will
Mr William Thomas Poole King
The will (dated 8th July, 1886) has been proved of the late Mr William Thomas Poole King, of Avonside, Clifton, who was senior partner of a well-known firm of African merchants, High Sheriff for the county in 1871, and a director of the Bristol and Exeter Railway from its beginning. The personalty is of the value of £22,073 11s 2d.
26/01/1886
Western Daily Press
Will
Mrs Catherine Norris
The will of the late Mrs Catherine Norris, formerly of Clifton Park, and late of Worcester Avenue, Clifton, has been proved at £17,000 personalty.
03/06/1885
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr H. H. Beckingham
We regret to announce the death of Mr H. H. Beckingham, solicitor, of this city, which occurred at his residence, 11, Beaufort Road, Clifton, yesterday. The deceased gentleman had been confined to the house for some weeks, and the malady from which he suffered was a painful one, but it was at one time believed that he would recover. Mr Beckingham was formerly with Messrs Reed and Cook, the well known firm of solicitors at Bridgwater; and on coming to Bristol he joined Mr J. H. Clifton in partnership, afterwards commencing to practise entirely on his own account. For many years he had an excellent bankruptcy business, and he often appeared in the Bristol county court in cases of this description. He was genial in disposition and manly in bearing, and was generally respected. With his colleagues in the profession he was popular, and his familiar figure will be much missed in the vicinity of the Albion Chambers where his offices were situated. During the last few months Mr C. E. Barry had been a partner with the deceased.
07/12/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas David Taylor
DEATH OF MR T. D. TAYLOR
A PROMINENT BRISTOL JOURNALIST
We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Thomas David Taylor, which took place yesterday morning a his residence, Hillside House, Redland Green, after an illness extending over several weeks. Mr T. D. Taylor was born in Bristol on the 6th February, 1823, and was the son of Mr John Taylor, who was for fifty years proprietor and editor of the 'Bristol Mirror'. He was educated at Blundell's School, Tiverton, and in 1848, when at the age of 25, joined his father in journalistic work. For some years he owned and edited the 'Bath Chronicle', but on the death of his father he sold his interests in that journal, and returned to Bristol to renew his work in connection with the 'Mirror', which in 1865 became amalgamated with the 'Bristol Times', owned and edited by the late Mr Joseph Leech, the title then becoming 'The Bristol Daily Times and Mirror'. On the occasion of the silver wedding of the two journals Mr Taylor was presented by the staff with a very fine portrait of himself in oils. The deceased gentleman retired in 1901, so that for rather more than 50 years he was actively and prominently associated with journalistic work in Bristol and the neighbouring city of Bath.
Mr Taylor was a gentleman of a school not so often to be met in these days as formerly; he added to a dignified bearing a studied courtesy of manner, which at the same time both impressed and attracted all who were privileged to be in his company. Ever willing to show himself friendly to all, he was a loyal and energetic supporter of the causes which met with the approval of his judgment, while the geniality of his temperament smoothed away all asperity from his advocacy of political or social movements. The kindliness which covered the expression of his views did not in any sense deprive, but rather accentuated his possession of a shrewdness which, while a natural gift, was strongly developed by the experience of men and affairs during a long and busy life. His brother journalists have the most cordial recollections of Mr Taylor's demeanour towards them in all circumstances, and although of recent years they have not had such frequent opportunities as formerly of listening to his enlivening and witty conversation, the memory of his most active days as a working journalist is still with them to stimulate and encourage. In the days of his vigour he was a prolific writer, and his work was marked by great ability. He possessed a very keen sense of humour and his writings at times were in a very happy vein, while when occasion required he could be most trenchant in his criticisms.
Mr Taylor did not undertake any civic work, though he was much pressed on several occasions to do so. He was a well-known figure, however, in the public life of the city and possessed qualities which endeared him to all classes of his fellow citizens. Indeed, it has been given to few men to be more widely known or highly respected. He was the Father of the Ancient Society of St. Stephen's Ringers, which he joined in 1846. He had an intimate acquaintance with several distinguished men in his generation, including Mark Lemon and Douglas Jerrold, and several books were dedicated to him at different times by well-known authors. One of the latter was Joseph Hatton, at one time editor of the 'Mirror', and the Rev. A. B. Beaven dedicated his 'Bristol Lists' to Mr Taylor as the 'Grand Old Man of Journalism in Bristol', because in conjunction with Mr F. F. Fox he had given him access to Bristol books and to his rare files of old Bristol newspapers. Mr Taylor's wife, who was the daughter of Dr. Goodenough, a former master of the Grammar School, died many years ago, and last year he had the misfortune to sustain a severe bereavement by the death of his eldest son, Mr J. H. Goodenough Taylor. One of his brothers, Mr Robert Taylor, died recently at Lynton, and another brother, the Rev. Richard Taylor, vicar of Kemble, died a few years ago. His son, Mr Henry Ward Taylor, is one of the directors of the 'Bristol Times and Mirror' Ltd., and his grandson, Mr Lionel Goodenough Taylor, is also a member of the board. The deceased was a Fellow of the Institute of Journalists, and was one of those who signed the petition for a charter of incorporation, which was granted. Mr Taylor was chairman of the Bristol branch of the National Association of Journalists in 1889, when a special conference was held at Bristol and at which it was decided to apply for the Charter, and on that occasion he entertained the visitors with liberal hospitality. He was a member of the local reception committee at the Bristol conference of the Institute in 1903, but owing to failing health was unable to take any active part in the work. He was an honorary member and warm supporter of the Bristol and West of England Press Fund, and was the president at one of its most successful banquets. There are two daughters, viz., Miss Georgina Taylor, a lady well known for her philanthropic work in the city of Bristol, and formerly a member of the Bristol School Board; and Miss Isabella Taylor, who has taken a very active interest in the Bristol Orthopaedic Hospital.
01/10/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Thomas
DEATH OF MR CHARLES THOMAS
AN HONOURED CITIZEN
It is with much regret that we announce the death of Mr Charles Thomas, who for many years occupied a high position in the trade of the city, and was always a warm supporter of philanthropic movements. The deceased gentleman, who was 88 years of age, died suddenly at his residence, Pitch and Pay, Stoke Bishop. Mr Thomas had no illness which laid him aside. He was in Bristol on Wednesday afternoon, and has been paying his usual visits to the Commercial Rooms this week. Yesterday morning he was sitting waiting for his breakfast and reading the paper, and the servant found him dead a few minutes later. His sudden death occasioned no surprise, medical warning having been given the family that this might happen. His nephew, Mr Harry Thomas, who was closely associated with the University College, died a few months ago.
EARLY YEARS
The family of which Mr Thomas was a member came to Bristol from Llangadock, Carmarthenshire, the original founder of the important business which has for many years been carried on upon the Broad Plain being Mr Thomas Thomas, the father of the four brothers - Christopher James, Thomas, Herbert, and Charles. The last named was born at Llangadock on August 10th, 1821, and received the early part of his education at the town school. Unfortunately, however, when still a school-boy, he met with an accident to his eye, and it became necessary for him to abandon his studies for eighteen months. Then the family removed to Bristol, and Charles resumed his education, attending Mr F. Norton's School on St. Michael's Hill until the end of 1835. At this time the deceased was not in very robust health, and in 1836 he was sent away to a farm near Cardiff, where he stayed nearly twelve months. Returning to Bristol, he was placed with a German professor, Dr Monck, who live in Southwell Street, and under his tuition acquired some knowledge of the German language. He was taught mathematics by Mr Exley, the father of Mr John Exley, who had a school at Cotham. In the early part of 1838 he had completed his education, and it was then he commenced to learn soap-making, in the factory which had been opened by his father, in conjunction with his brother-in-law, Mr Jones, about 1825.
HIS BUSINESS CAREER
The original factory was in Old Red Lion Yard, Redcliff Street, on the site of premises afterwards occupied by Messrs Henry Prichard and Co., oil merchants. Following the progress of the firm, it may be said that increased trade came slowly but surely, and of the four sons, Christopher James, at the age of 22, was the first to be introduced into the firm, who then carried on business under the style of Jones and Thomas. When Mr Charles Thomas joined the firm in 1838, the soap-making business was carried on in Queen Street, Castle Street, under the style of Thomas Thomas and Sons. Increasing trade made the acquirement of larger premises necessary, and in 1841 Messrs Fripp and Co., soap manufacturers of high standing in Bristol, made overtures which resulted in the amalgamation of the two firms, and a settlement of the new business on the Broad Plain was made. In 1856 Mr Edward Fripp retired, leaving the four brothers who traded as Christopher Thomas and Brothers, and Mr Charles Thomas took the control of the manufacturing work. He displayed considerable scientific knowledge in the manufacture of soap, and an invention was patented in 1878 in his name and the names of Messrs S. A. King (assistant) and W. J. Fuller (chemist to the firm) for extracting a large portion of the glycerine from the other chemical elements of leys, a substance formerly regarded as waste. Many other improvements were subsequently effected by Mr Charles Thomas in conjunction with experts, and one of these was patented in his name and that of Mr Elbert Domeier, of London. In the year 1853, Mr Gladstone abolished soap duty of £14 per ton, and in a very short time a considerable quantity of soap was sold at £14 per ton. About this time Mr Thomas, with the sanction of his brothers, made many changes in, and additions to, the premises and machinery, all of which additions were carried out under his personal supervision. During Mr Thomas's active connection with the firm nearly the whole of the works were rebuilt. Mr Thomas gained experienced in nearly all the departments of the works, and for many years he applied himself to the business from early morning to late evening. His ability in connection with the affairs of the business of himself and partners led him to be invited to join other undertakings. He became chairman of the Netham Chemical Works in 1859, and retained the position till 1890, when that undertaking was absorbed in the United Alkali Co. Another local enterprise in which he had a share in the management was the Bristol Water Works Co., of which he was director. He was for some years a director of the Employers' Liability Insurance Corporation, and on the Board of the General and London Hydraulic Power Co. Apart from the Broad Plain Soap Works, however, Mr Thomas, evinced most interest in railway concerns. He became a director of the Midland Railway Company in 1875, succeeding Mr Mercer, who was for some time the Bristol member of the board. Mr Thomas exerted himself for the benefit of Bristol in connection with the Midland system, and his colleagues elected him deputy chairman of the company in 1891, a position which he held for fourteen years. Mr Thomas had a seat on many of the committees of the Midland Railway Company, and was most regular in his attendances. During his connection with the company Mr Thomas saw many important changes and an enormous increase in railway work. His efforts were recognised by Sir Ernest Paget, the chairman of the Midland Company, who paid a well-deserved tribute to his efficiency. Other railways in which Mr Charles Thomas was director were the Taff Vale (of which he was a deputy chairman), and the Somerset and Dorset.
AS A VOLUNTEER
In 1861 Mr Thomas joined the Bristol Rifles on the formation of the corps. He learned his manual drill in the dinner hour at the soap-works, the drill sergeant attending there to instruct him. He took a keen interest in shooting, and made himself so proficient in the use of the rifle that he succeeded in winning the cross rifle badge, shooting at 900 yards. In those days the rifle range was near Pitch and Pay, and Mr Thomas used to turn out at six o'clock in the morning and, by arrangement with the colonel, meet the sergeant at the range at that hour. He had a good many shares in the old headquarters of the Rifles, and when the premises were sold he devoted £800 towards a prize fund to spread over ten years, the condition being that some others would make up £50 per annum, so as to make a prize fund of £100 a year for ten years. In addition to the Rifles, Mr Thomas also took an interest in the welfare of the Naval Volunteers, and at one time held the commission of a lieutenant. In 1881 Mr Thomas was appointed to the Commission of the Peace for the county of Gloucester, and in 1901 he was appointed a Deputy-Lieutenant of the county.
PUBLIC DUTIES
Until the Home Rule agitation split the party in 1886, Mr Thomas was a staunch Liberal, and proved an active worker in all local elections from 1840 to 1875. After he became a Liberal Unionist he attended the meetings of that body. A few years ago, however, he severed his connection with the Liberal Unionists. He expressed himself strongly against the taxation of food and in 1905 he accompanied Sir William Henry Wills to a large meeting held in Colston Hall, where he received a very hearty welcome, as it was the first time for some years that he had stood upon a liberal platform. In a letter which he subsequently wrote respecting the food question, he explained that he was altogether opposed to its taxation. Mr Thomas never allowed himself to be nominated for any municipal work, because he felt that whilst his brother, Mr Christopher Thomas, was a member of the Council for forty years and mayor in 1874-75, and Mr Herbert Thomas was giving a great deal of time to philanthropic work on the School Board, and as one of the Charity Trustees, it was essential for him to give close attention to the soap works. Even when he joined the Midland Railway Board, Mr Thomas used to do his day's work at the soap factory before travelling up to Derby in the evening for the meeting on the following day. Mr Charles Thomas presented to the Corporation a bust of his brother, Mr Christopher James Thomas, which had been executed the year after his death in 1894. The gift was received with appreciation as a remembrance of a valued citizen who had spent some of the best years of a long life in promoting the interests of the people of Bristol. In 1863 Mr Thomas went to the United States and travelled on the Union Pacific Railway as far as it was made on the East side. He watched with interest the construction of the railway and he was struck with the fact that four miles of road were laid down in one day between sunrise and sunset. Mr Thomas, within recent years, made a journey to Egypt, and, in fact, he had been in every capital in Europe except St. Petersburg.
RELIGIOUS SYMPATHIES
Mr Charles Thomas was a Unitarian, and if not the last, he must have been nearly the last of those worthy citizens who used to worship at Lewin's Mead Meeting before Oakfield Road Church existed. With the families of Castle, Coates, Worsley, Herapath, Brown, and Wansey, he and his brothers repaired to the spacious chapel, where they successively attended the ministrations of the Rev. George Armstrong, William James, and Ambrose N. Blatchford. He did not live to see the renovated meeting house, which will be re-opened on Sunday next by the rev. A. N. Blatchford. Although Mr Charles Thomas was a Unitarian, this fact did not prevent him subscribing to Church work, and especially was this the case with regard to the church in his native village of Llangadock. About twenty years ago this church was in a somewhat dilapidated condition, and Mr Thomas wrote to the Bishop of the Diocese pointing out the fact, and saying:"Unitarian as I am, I will give £50 towards its restoration". That letter was the means of starting a fund, which was sufficient to practically rebuild the church. In addition to this subscription, Mr Thomas also presented one of the bells in the tower. Within the last year or two he had a good deal of correspondence with the vicar to start a little trust for keeping the churchyard in good repair. Mr Thomas was a liberal subscriber to the Bristol University College, the Royal Infirmary, and other institutions. At the last meeting of the subscribers to the Bristol Eye Hospital he took part in the proceedings, and the records of several societies which have for their objects the claims of the poor and suffering found in him a hearty supporter. He showed his appreciation of the Convalescent Home by becoming a governor of the institution. Mr Thomas's long life had been one of ceaseless activity, and when asked to tell younger men how to succeed in business he would say, "By steady application to work, and by a determination to surmount obstacles, no matter how difficult". Work had been Mr Thomas's pleasure, and, although he was fond of certain branches of sport, particularly hunting, he never allowed his recreation to interfere with his business.
07/10/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Robert Henry Symes
DEATH OF SIR ROBERT SYMES
It is with sincere regret, which will be shared by the citizens generally, that we announce the somewhat sudden death at his residence, Burfield, Westbury-on-Trym, in his 71st year, of Alderman Sir Robert Henry Symes, who for many years occupied a prominent position in Bristol. Sir Robert Symes was in his garden on Monday morning, but in the afternoon he was seized with an attack of angina pectoris. Dr J. O. Symes, of Pembroke Road, was called in, and remained with Sir Robert for some hours, but death ensued shortly after half-past three yesterday morning.
The late alderman was well known in business and social circles of the city, and was a familiar figure in the Commercial Rooms. His geniality and courtesy were marked and no frequenter of the Rooms could have been a more general favourite.
Ald. Symes was the fifth citizen of Bristol since 1850, who, having filled the office of Mayor, had the honour of knighthood conferred upon him by her late Majesty. In 1851 Mr John Kerle Haberfield was knighted, in 1887 Alderman George Edwards, and later on Alderman Chas. Wathen and Sir Joseph D. Weston. Alderman Symes was descended from a family that in the 16th century filled a leading position in the town of Chard, in Somersetshire, and who removed thence in the year 1593 to Poundisford Park, Pitminster, near Taunton. Born in Bristol in the year 1837, he was educated at the Independent College at Taunton, when the Rev. Dr. Bewglass was the headmaster, and at an early age became associated with the important provision business founded by his father, Mr H. J. Symes, in Temple Street. In 1861 his father took him into partnership under the style of H. J,. Symes and Son, and, on the head of the firm retiring in 1866 to reside at Yatton, the business, which proved a successful one, was carried on by Mr Symes in the name of Symes and Company. For some years Mr Symes conducted the business of provision merchant in Victoria Street. A few years ago this business was united with that of Messrs Pullin, Thomas and Slade, Limited, and the deceased became a director of the company. The late Alderman in his childhood resided in Temple Street, and had been many times churchwarden of Temple Church during the last 25 years. Upon accepting the Mayoralty he became the first co-opted guardian elected by the Bristol Incorporation of the Poor. One amongst many of the results of the deceased's long connection with Temple parish was that by which, with the cooperation of the Rev. W. Hazledine, the vicar, he was instrumental in getting five public-houses of bad character closed. The vestry, who were the owners of the houses, were persuaded by the Vicar and the deceased to give the tenants notice to quit, and the premises were converted into ordinary business houses. The superintendent of police in charge of the district at the time stated that this act was equivalent to saving the work of twelve constables. While comparatively speaking a young man, the deceased took the initiative step which ultimately led to the freeing of the toll bridges in St. Philip's and Prince Street - no small boon to a large number of the poorer citizens. He also took a leading part in forming the West of England Merchant's Association, the existence of which was almost was almost necessitated by the alteration in the Bankruptcy Acts; and for many years he held the post of chairman of this important association. Mr Symes also took an active interest in the movement so enthusiastically led by Mr Samuel Plimsoll, one of the members of Parliament at the time for Derby, which resulted in legislation, which was so much needed, to prevent overloaded and unseaworthy ships putting to sea.
In 1862 the deceased married Miss Davey, daughter of the late Mr Joseph Davey, of The Lawn, Taunton, by whom he had four children; his son, Capt. H. A. Symes, of the 4th Royal Dublin Fusiliers, and formerly of the Bristol Rifles, being the only one now living. His first wife died in 1878, and he married the eldest daughter of the late Mr John Kempe, of Long Ashton, in 1880, she then being the widow of Monsieur Hurlin, Capitaine au 5 ieme Bataillon de Chasseurs a pied, who served in the Franco-Prussian war and died in Corsica from injuries received in the war.
In 1882 the deceased was appointed one of the Lord Bishop's Commissioners for Church Extension in Bristol, and again at a subsequently appointed Commission for the same important work, he was one of the very earnest members, as he also was of the Bristol Bishopric Society, whose efforts were successful in raising the large amount required to fulfil the conditions of the Act of Parliament sanctioning the restoration of the Ancient See of Bristol.
In 1887 Mr Symes was elected Sheriff of Bristol. He laid the foundation stone of the Civic Cross in College Green. During the time he held office he took a prominent part, in conjunction with Sir Charles Wathen, who was then Mayor, in entertaining the late Prince Albert Victor on the occasion of his visit to the city to unveil the Queen's statue in College Green and to honour the Mayor and citizens by signing the Freeman's Roll. Two years afterwards Mr Symes became a justice of the peace, and was one of the most regular in attendance on the bench at the Bristol police court. In 1893 Mr Symes broke the spell of the popular tradition "Once a Sheriff, never a Mayor", and found himself in the position of being chosen Mayor whilst not a member of the Council. Many important engagements were fulfilled during his first year of office. In January, 1894, he entertained Lord Roberts of Canahar and a distinguished party of noblemen and gentlemen at the Mansion House on the occasion of his being admitted a Freeman. In August, 1894, in conjunction with the Mayoress, he gave a ball at Colston Hall in honour of the visit to Bristol of the British Medical Association, when about 2000 visitors attended. The Mayor and Mayoress during the same month held a reception in honour of the visit of the Incorporated Law Society to Bristol, and at the end of October he had the pleasing duty of entertaining a no-less distinguished guest than Lord Rosebery, then Prime Minister of England, when he was presented with the freedom of the city, upon the occasion of his unveiling the statue of the renowned Edmund Burke in Colston Avenue. It was during the winter of his second year of office that Mr Symes made a special appeal for the unemployed and those in distress in consequence of the severity of the weather, and it is worthy of note that within three weeks a hearty response came from the public in subscriptions amounting to £5000.
In May 1895, he entertained at luncheon at the Council House the late Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Benson, when that prelate visited this city on the occasion of the completion of the choir of the cathedral.
The deceased, in January 1897, opened an Indian Famine Fund, by which £60,000 was raised, and he also opened a Jubilee Rejoicing Fund and a Jubilee Memorial Fund, which resulted in the handsome sum of £82,000 being raised towards the establishment and endowment of a Convalescent Home. On the 23rd June of the same year Sir Robert was presented to her Majesty at Buckingham Palace, and he was the recipient of the Jubilee Commemoration Medal. He also entertained Lord Dufferin on the occasion of that distinguished statesman visiting Bristol for the purpose of laying the foundation stone of the Cabot Memorial on Brandon Hill. Mr Symes after being four times Mayor, received the honour of knighthood from Queen Victoria, at Osborne House, in January 1898. At the Theatre Royal, King Street, during the progress of the pantomime "Aladdin", Mr Ernest Carpenter made the announcement that her Majesty the Queen had been pleased to confer the honour of knighthood upon Bristol's Mayor, Mr R. H. Symes. The announcement was received with prolonged applause. Sir Robert, after being knighted, was twice elected to the post of chief magistrate, viz., in 1902 and 1903, so that for six years he filled the civic chair. He held a commission as honorary lieutenant in the disbanded Royal Naval Artillery Volunteer force, and retained the rank of lieutenant in the Navy. At his residence, Burfield, he frequently aided charitable objects by allowing fetes to be held in the grounds. Rejoicings in respect to Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee and the Coronation of King Edward VII caused a large number of persons to assemble in the grounds.
05/11/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Townsend
DEATH OF MR CHARLES TOWNSEND
AN ESTIMABLE CAREER
It is with great regret we announce the decease of Mr Charles Townsend, who passed away yesterday afternoon at his residence, St. Mary's, Stoke Bishop. He had been ill for some time, and was attended by Dr. Dacre. His death had been anticipated from the nature of his disease, and at the time he expired members of his family were present.
Although the deceased gentleman of late years was little occupied in public affairs, he had, during the course of a busy life, been concerned with public questions, which he regarded from the standpoint of a staunch Liberal in politics. He was born at Edgbaston, June 6th, 1832, and his father, Mr John Henry Townsend, came to reside in Bristol after carrying on businesses in Birmingham and Leeds. The elder Mr Townsend joined the firm of Ferris and Score, chemists and druggists, Union Street, and he became a partner. Charles was educated in a school kept by Mr Daniell, in St. Paul's, where Mr E. G. Clarke and some others who obtained prominence in Bristol were trained. After leaving this educational establishment he entered the business of the Union Street firm. He had for many years the management of the wholesale and export department, previous to this appointment having represented the firm as a traveller over the West of England and South Wales. Through the activity and tact of the deceased the business became extended, and he was admitted a partner with others, so that the members were Messrs Ferris, Boorne, Townsend, and Boucher, and traded as Ferris and Co. With his father, mother, sister, and brother, Mr Charles Townsend was a regular attendant at Broadmead Baptist Chapel, which, during the early years of the pastorate of the Rev. N. Haycroft, was the religious home of many leading families among the Nonconformists, including those of Sperring, Mercer, Phillips, Tribe, Ransford, Daniell, and Dr Chandler.
ACTIVITY IN CIVIC AFFAIRS
The political career of Mr Charles Townsend may be said to have commenced when he succeeded Mr E. G. Clarke as chairman of the Liberals in the District Ward. He early won the esteem of his fellow citizens, and was cordially regarded by his political adherents, since he was not only thoroughly in earnest respecting politics, but he had a frank, manly bearing, which caused him to be esteemed by political opponents. He stepped out of the rank and file of the Liberal party to become a representative of the District Ward in the City Council. He was elected originally as councillor in 1872, and retained his seat till 1892, being returned at each election without opposition. On September 23rd, 1893, at a meeting of the District Ward Liberals he was presented with his portrait and an illuminated address in recognition of his having so long represented the ward in the Municipal Council. During the time he was in the Council the question of dockisation cropped up very strongly. Schemes of dock development had for some years been under discussion, and the matter of port improvement reached a stage when a section of the public pressed strongly that if a large enterprise was to be taken in hand it should assume the shape of dockisation of the Avon. The Council appointed a sub-committee to go into the subject, and Mr Charles Townsend became chairman of that committee. After considerable inquiry he explained to a meeting convened in the District Ward the features of a scheme of dockisation. He, however, was convinced that the cost of dealing with floods and sewage which would be part of any proposal was a 'dead' expenditure, quite unproductive, and it practically put the scheme out of court. Financial grounds, much as he approved of dockisation, induced him to abandon the scheme. His argument was freely used in the controversy that followed.
Mr Townsend upon one occasion figured in a Council meeting which had some singular features. He proposed a resolution that a special committee composed of members from both sides of the house should select the Mayor and Sheriff. The resolution was seconded by another Liberal councillor, and a solemn silence then prevailed the assembly. The Town Clerk appeared to hesitate in putting the motion, so significant seemed the calm; but at length two or three Liberal members who did not relish this unspeakable happiness taunted the Conservative members of the Corporation with having nothing to say in support of the method of election which had hitherto prevailed. Still no sign was made by the supporters of the "Warwick Committee", who, however, when the time for voting came showed that they could present a solid phalanx in opposition to any alteration, and the result was "as you were". Since then, however, a different policy has prevailed in respect to the selection of the Lord mayor and Sheriff. In conjunction with Mr Sholto Vere Hare, Mr Townsend was elected one of the first two Governors of the Grammar School to represent the Council under the scheme of the Endowed Schools Commissioners, and he acted upon the governing body for six years. When his term of office expired, he retired in favour of Sir Charles Wathen. He was a member of the Sanitary Committee for about ten years, and he retired in order to give the seat to Mr John Bastow. Mr Townsend was also on the Libraries Committee when the public libraries were started, and he distinguished himself by great activity and intellectual vigour. His name was many years ago added to the list of those in the commission of the peace for the city.
The connection of Mr Townsend with Broadmead Chapel has been noted, and some time after he ceased to attend that place of worship he delivered an interesting address, in which he gave particulars of the Sunday School. He was on the committee for the erection of Tyndale Chapel, White Ladies Road, built to accommodate those Baptists who resided in the western suburb; and from the time when the Rev. Dr. Glover became the first pastor in 1869 Mr Townsend was a deacon of the church. He had been President of the Bristol Baptist Association, and for a long time was one of the honorary secretaries of the Bristol City Mission Society.
AS THE ARDENT LIBERAL POLITICIAN
To the majority of Bristol citizens Mr Townsend was chiefly known in connection with Imperial politics. The old Liberal Registration Association underwent a change in 1884, when the distribution of Bristol into four divisions took place, and Mr Townsend, who was president, had with his colleagues to settle the new constitution. A representative committee, open to all sections of the party, was given to each of the four divisions. So highly was Mr Townsend esteemed by the Liberal party in the city that when a candidate for Bristol North was selected his name found most favour, although the other name was that of so popular a citizen as Sir Joseph D. Weston. A meeting of the Executive Committee was convened at the Ward Hall, Montpelier, Mr J. Coulthard presiding; and a division taken, with the result that eleven votes were recorded for Weston and 34 for Townsend. The Liberal Association of the division ratified the choice, and Mr Charles Townsend became M.P. from 1892 to 1895. Elected a member of the Executive Committee of the National Liberal Federation, he proved himself so efficient that he had the opportunity of being nominated for a seat in Parliament some time before he was chosen to contest Bristol North. Here he was opposed to Mr Lewis Fry, and was returned by 4,409 votes against his opponent's 4,084. In 1895 Mr Fry regained the seat, polling 4,702 to Mr Townsend's 4,464. In 1897 Mr Townsend was elected an alderman of the Council. Besides the important work which he did in Parliament and as a member of the Corporation, he became president of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce in 1874. He was the first president of the chamber after its incorporation that year, when the office of honorary president was abolished to others who became elected by the members. He was president of the Anchor Society in 1883, his collection being £948.
Mr Townsend married a daughter of Mr Adam Holden (Holden and Vining), the original proprietors of the Sugar Refinery, which was afterwards the property of Mr Finzel. He leaves two sons, Mr Henry Holden Townsend, of Larnaco, the Sea Walls, and Mr C. Kenyon Townsend, Hillmorton, Sneyd Park. His daughter, Miss Townsend, a member of the Bristol Education Committee, is well known as an energetic supporter of many philanthropic movements.
20/11/1908
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Chappell
DEATH OF MR SAMUEL CHAPPELL
It will be learnt with regret that Mr Samuel Chappell died at his residence, Fairlawn, Redland Road, yesterday morning, at the age of 84. As secretary to the Bristol Wagon Works Company and the Great Western Cotton Works Company, Mr Chappell was very well-known in commercial circles, and for his integrity of character, his unvarying courtesy, and geniality of manner he was generally highly respected. The deceased gentleman, however, was more widely known for his great practical interest in Sunday school and religious work, and his death will be deeply deplored, especially by the officers and members of Stapleton Road Chapel and Sunday schools. Since the foundation of that place of worship, in 1867, Mr Chappell had been so closely associated with it that to name one was to think of the other; and though for some years past ill-health had prevented Mr Chappell's more active co-operation in the work of the church and Sunday schools, yet the sense of his total disseverance from it will be a fact hard to realise, and must prove a severe loss in the life of the church. Long before the foundation of the church at Stapleton Road Mr Chappell was actively associated with Castle Green Chapel, as an officer of the church, and as superintendent of the Sunday school, to which post he was appointed in 1840. In 1867 some 24 teachers and members left Castle Green with the object of founding a new church, and eventually the old workhouse in Pennywell Road was taken, and the new church commenced in January 1867. In March, 1868, ground had been secured and a schoolroom built on the Goodhind estate, and in October 1871, the chapel was completed and opened. In these arduous labours Mr Chappell, with the hearty co-operation of his colleagues on the diaconate, had shared, and in all the active operations of the church until a few years ago. A year ago he was made a life deacon of the church.
Perhaps there was no better known Sunday school worker in Bristol than Mr Chappell. As has been said, in 1840 he became superintendent at Castle Green: on the new Stapleton Road Church being formed, he was appointed superintendent of the school established in connection with it, and yearly since that time he has been re-appointed with, in the last 17 years, assistant superintendents to help in the more active operations, the school being then being very large. During his active connection with the Sunday school, Mr Chappell's personality was very marked, and his cheery face and kind and loving word were ever welcome and prized by those with whom he came in contact. In 1890 Mr Chappell was elected president of the Bristol Sunday School Union, and in the following year was re-appointed to the position. In 1900 he attained his diamond jubilee of Sunday school service, when two celebrations of the event took place, one being a gathering of old scholars, and the other of those then in the school. For the former, 1,470 invitations had been issued, and besides those present there were received 263 letters in response conveying congratulations from various parts of the world. Replies came from the then Lord Mayor (Sir H. Ashman), Sir W. H. Wills (Lord Winterstoke), Mr Lewis Fry, then representing the city in Parliament, the late Mr Mark Whitwill, the Rev. Arnold Thomas, Mr F. F. Belsey (chairman of council of the London Sunday School Union), and many other ministers and friends, and there was presented to Mr Chappell a large framed photograph of the officers and teachers of Stapleton Road School and its branch at Brick Street. The chairman of the meeting was Mr J. Storrs Fry. Mr Chappell was the first Sunday School worker in Bristol to receive the diploma of honour granted by the London Sunday School Union for long and distinguished Sunday school service, the presentation being made to him in 1901. For the last few years Mr Chappell's presence in the church and Sunday school has been compulsorily rare, but even in his physical weakness he was able to do much in relation to the affairs of the church and schools, and sent many a kind message and token of interest in the members and scholars.
22/06/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Pethick
DEATH OF HENRY PETHICK, J.P.
The death occurred near midnight on Thursday, at his residence, Trewartha, Weston-super-Mare, of Mr Henry Pethick, J.P., one of Weston's oldest magistrates and a gentleman highly esteemed in the town of his adoption. The deceased was a son of the late Mr Thomas Pethick, of Bristol, and was formerly a partner in the Bristol, Plymouth, Exeter, and London South American importing house of Haycroft and Pethick. He retired, however, many years ago, and settled down in Weston-super-Mare, where he proved a most estimable citizen. For some years he served on the old Town Commissioners, finance being his forte. Possessed of keen debating powers and quick to grasp the strong and the weak points of any scheme brought forward for consideration, he exercised a weighty influence, for which the town will long be indebted to him. In his judicial capacity as a magistrate he was most painstaking, and always endeavoured to temper justice with mercy. Behind a somewhat brusque manner existed a warm and loving heart, and in many instances he manifested a kindly interest in prisoners who were embarking on a life of crime. Well versed in the legal aspect of most cases, his loss to the bench will be a severe one. In many other directions deceased served his day and generation well and wisely, and the Y.M.C.A. has lost a generous supporter, and one who, for a long sequence of years, took the keenest interest in the institution. The Men's Sunday Afternoon Bible Class, conducted for several years by Mr Henry Harrison, and the Chrysanthemum Society had his practical support, and, as the first president of the Chrysanthemum Society, he was invited to occupy the same office on the attainment of its majority last year, an honour he cordially accepted. He was also on the committee of the Horse Show and the defunct Horticultural Society. For a number of years he acted as churchwarden at Christ Church, and many philanthropic and religious movements had his warm sympathy, included among which we may mention the Charity Organisation Society. Politically he was a staunch supporter of the Liberal cause until the Home Rule cleavage in 1886, when he joined the ranks of the Liberal Unionists. To the intense satisfaction of the local leaders of the Liberal party, however, he returned to his old allegiance prior to the last general election. His charity was freely bestowed, but in such an unostentatious way that it was scarcely realised that he had such a benevolent disposition. Deceased was 66 years of age, and had been ailing for something like 12 months, but he was only confined to his house for a month or two. The funeral will take place at Arno's Vale Cemetery, where his brother was buried in November 1902, and where other members of his family have been laid to rest. For Mrs Pethick and the family of the deceased the greatest sympathy will be felt in their bereavement.
19/08/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Proctor Baker
DEATH OF MR WM PROCTOR BAKER
AN HONOURED CAREER
We regret to announce the death of Mr William Proctor Baker, who for many years was one of the most prominent citizens of Bristol. He had been unwell for some time, and was staying with Mrs Proctor Baker at the Hotel Metropole, London, where on Saturday morning he passed away.
The deceased gentleman was closely identified with the civic life of Bristol for nearly 40 years, during which time he occupied a seat on the aldermanic bench, and was, in 1871, elected Mayor of the city. It was in July, 1889, that Mr Baker, on the death of Alderman Phippen, entered the Council as alderman, and such an enthusiastic interest did he take in connection with all municipal matters that he became the leader of the Conservative party in the Council, and was "Father of the House" in 1893. He was a man of the soundest judgment and keen perception, and being also a lucid speaker, he always claimed the closest attention of his hearers. On important questions the Alderman was always looked to with confidence by his colleagues, and he never failed to put clearly before the Council anything he had in hand. He was one of those conscientious men trusted by all parties in the House, and his influence was, therefore, great; indeed, it may be said that few men have done more than the late Alderman to elevate the municipal life of the city.
AS CIVIC RULER
There were certain occasions upon which he was particularly prominent. When, about 20 years ago, negotiations were in progress for acquiring the Bristol Water Works, Alderman Proctor Baker took a very prominent part for the Council. There was considerable discussion in the city at the time, particularly in regard to the price to be paid for the undertaking, and ultimately, at a meeting of the Council, it was decided to take no further steps. The proceedings at this meeting, though very short, were almost dramatic, for the Town Clerk, at that time Mr William Brice, having read the notice on the agenda as to the subject for discussion, looked towards Alderman Proctor Baker as there was silence in the Council. The Alderman, noticing the meaning look, rose and said: "I have nothing to say," after which a further silence fell, as it was at once seen that the whole matter had dropped. Mr Christopher Thomas (who was a director of the company) then rose, and said he hoped the next time the city entered into negotiations with the company they would mean business.
PORT IMPROVEMENT
Perhaps on no subject in connection with municipal life did Alderman Proctor Baker take a keener interest than that of port improvements. He was a most able chairman of the Docks Committee, and in this capacity much devolved upon him. He made a careful study of the docks and all the problems connected with them, and he entered with all his energy into schemes for dock improvements. In the early nineties an improvement scheme was before the citizens, and the Alderman was then looked to for guidance. He had a thorough grasp of the matter, and this was shown not only by his speeches in the Council Chamber, but also in other parts of the city. It was at the Liberal Club on October 20th, 1898, that he delivered an important speech on port improvements, and it is interesting at this point to recall passages from that speech. At that time the Alderman thought the city was not ripe for the larger scheme, which is just now being completed, but he strongly advocated progress at the mouth of the river. Introducing his speech at the Liberal Club, he said:- "Now it is a matter of history that for the last few years men's minds in Bristol have been very full of larger schemes, very much larger schemes, than the present one. I refer, of course, to the plans that were put out and adopted for the building of a great dock at Avonmouth, adapted to take not only the largest steamers afloat, but larger steamers than any that were afloat, and the enthusiasm and acceptance which that scheme met with were surprising, notwithstanding that it involved an enormous outlay of money. There was also the other plan which has occupied men's minds, and for which there was an immense amount of enthusiasm. I refer to the scheme for dockising the river, which seems to have a particular attraction for many minds. But I am not going on this occasion to discuss in detail either of these schemes. I am not going to give you my own opinion upon them, because it is clear that for the present both of them are in abeyance, and no sane man would, I think, venture to recommend schemes the initial cost of which to the ratepayers would mean something like 1s 6d in the £1 per annum. At any rate, I should not have the courage to put forward any such schemes. Nor are we concerned at this point to discuss them, except that I may state that the execution of the present project would be just as necessary if either of those two schemes - I refer to the big dock at Avonmouth, or the dockisation of the river - were carried out. But for the present I think we must dismiss those schemes as heroic, and, for the present, impracticable. I should, however, just at this point, like to note that in the scheme which we are now about to consider, every provision has been made in the agreement with the railway company for the alteration of the plans in case dockisation at any future time becomes an accomplished fact. (Voice: "At the Corporation expense"). At the Corporation expense, naturally, and the expense would be - if dockisation were carried out - a mere flea-bite in comparison with the expense of the whole concern. And I may just mention, perhaps, one point for the information of this meeting, which is particularly encouraging at the present moment. Up to this time we have had no ships at Avonmouth at all approaching in capacity to the size which could be admitted and accommodated there, but within the last few weeks we have had an application from Messrs Elder, Dempster, and Co., who are running the Canadian line, and who are shipowners on a very large scale, trading to many parts of the world, for the accommodation of ships of larger size than can be taken in at Avonmouth; and I may state, merely as a matter of information, that if certain alterations can be made at Avonmouth, they are willing to undertake to run those ships with the same regularity that they are now running their smaller vessels, and they believe that they can see their way to the employment of these larger vessels, constantly during the Canadian season. Our Engineer has made a device by which the lock can obtain the necessary enlargement at a comparatively small cost - a cost which I do not think the Council would hesitate for one moment to sanction. There are difficulties, however, in the way. There are difficulties peculiar to Avonmouth, and until we have had the very best advice upon the matter, that of Mr Wolfe Barry, to whom it has been referred, we cannot go on with it; but i hope that in the course of a very short time we shall be able to announce that the works are intended to be carried out. Now I think it will be acknowledged that there is a certain restlessness - may I say accompanied with a certain anxiety for the executing of new works! - a sort of feeling that has existed in some shape since the purchase of the river-mouth docks, and their alteration and equipment. And I think that that feeling arises from the latent fallacy - for it is a fallacy - that the mere extension of docks will create new and fresh trade. This is true only in a very limited sense. It is really the demand for commodities that increase trade; it is the increase in population which creates trade; it is not the mere execution of docks, that will create a business to them."
Alderman Proctor Baker was sincere in his desire to see a development of the port, and it was with a great interest he watched the progress of the Royal Edward Dock at Avonmouth, the completion of which, unfortunately, he has not survived to see.
PUBLIC SERVICES
In November, 1901, the deceased retired from the Council. He had for a time lived at Broomwell House, Brislington, and afterwards he removed to Sandhill Park, about six miles from Taunton. It was while residing at Brislington that he was chosen Mayor for the city of Bristol, and during his Mayoralty in 1871-72 the capstone on the spire of St. Mary Redcliff Church was fixed. A good deal of excitement was caused by the Mayor, accompanied by the Mayoress, ascending the spire. Mr Baker had had a long connection with Redcliff, and was one of the most popular men in the parish, and on his part he was ever ready and willing to help on any movement there. Although going to live in Somerset, his interest in the old city did not cease, and up to the time of his death his connection with some of the institutions of Bristol was maintained. He was one of the most prominent and influential supporters of the General Hospital and the intelligence of his death was received with deep regret at the institution of which he was elected President, in succession to the late Mr Geo. Thomas, in 1872, and continued to hold the office until June last, when he resigned, on account of failing health. He took a deep and active interest in the work of the Hospital, and was instrumental in promoting many important enlargements. His death will be much felt by those who were associated with him in the management of the Hospital, as well as by all the member of the staff. He also continued to take the keenest interest in the Bristol Grammar School where (under the headmastership of Dr. Hudson), with his brother Arthur, he was educated, and on the occasion of the farewell dinner which was given to the Rev. J. W. Caldicott, when he retired from the headmastership, the deceased took a prominent part in the function. In 1875 Alderman Proctor Baker was placed on the Commission of the Peace, and during his closer connection with Bristol he frequently occupied a seat on the magisterial bench at the police court in Bridewell Street, and there again his judgment was always sound. He was Master of the Merchant Venturers in 1889, and his interest in education gained for him a seat on the old Bristol School Board in 1871, which he continued to occupy until 1890.
AS EDUCATIONIST
His connection with the Merchant Venturers led Mr Proctor Baker to take more than ordinary interest in their Technical College. He contended, in some letters which he contributed to the local press, that parents ought to keep their sons longer at school, for education was the demand of the times. When this correspondence took place the value of the technical instruction afforded at the establishment in Unity Street was not appreciated to the extent it is at present. The letters in the newspapers on the subject of school years was by no means onesided, for some citizens crossed swords with Ald. Proctor Baker, and the result was an interesting mass of correspondence. The Colston School, Stapleton, and the Colston Girls' School in Cheltenham Road, both under the control of the Merchant Venturers, found in him a genial patron, and he was invariably at his best when presiding at the presentations of prizes in these scholastic establishments.
AS MUSICAL AMATEUR
Although the deceased gentleman's abilities in many directions were generally recognised, it will surprise a great number of persons who only came in contact with him during the Council part of his career, to know that he possessed, for an amateur, great knowledge as a musician. He was chairman of the first Musical Festival in Bristol, in 1873, and so successful was the gathering that at the close of the function he said, at a meeting of the committee, he was the very happy chairman of a very happy committee. In a communication respecting music, Mr Proctor Baker referred to himself as a somewhat enthusiastic amateur and a violoncello player. Indeed, he played in the band at the first Handel Festival at the Crystal Palace. He was a particular friend of Mr Henry Blagrove, the eminent violinist, and in reference to some particulars which appeared in the Musical Notes of the 'Western daily Press' seven years since, furnished particulars of a Bristol society to which Mr Blagrove lent valuable assistance. Nearly 50 years ago the Philharmonic Society was constituted in Bristol, and the committee consisted of Mr G. W. Edwards (his brother-in-law), Mr J. H. Hirst (architect), Mr A. King, and Mr W. Proctor Baker (who acted as honorary secretary). A band of about 50 performers was organised, Mr Henry Blagrove being the background of the organisation. He acted as conductor, and his patience and assiduity in training the executants were conspicuous. Through his exertions the amateurs were enabled to render orchestral compositions with considerable credit. Throughout he appeared actuated solely by a love of art, for in the matter of stipend he accepted very little more than sufficient to pay his travelling expenses.
In a MS report of the society drawn up by Mr Proctor Baker for the year 1858-9, it was stated when the preliminary meeting was held Mr Blagrove was staying in Clifton, and the gentlemen who had taken upon themselves the duties of the direction arranged with him to attend the remaining meetings. To cover the expenses of the practices a plan was adopted of admitting non-performers at half the subscription paid by performers. The accession to the subscription list under this arrangement was very considerable, and the series of meetings closed with a balance in hand. The preliminary gatherings aroused so much interest that on the 16th October, 1858, at a meeting held at the Victoria Rooms, Mr Thomas Proctor Jose in the chair, the Philharmonic Society was established, with Mr G. W. Edwards treasurer. At a concert given on the 18th April, 1859, Miss Jane Jackson (Mrs Roeckel), who was attending as an auditor, played a pianoforte solo as well as the accompaniment to a song given by Mr Fripp. In the concluding paragraph of the report written by Mr Proctor Baker occurs a paragraph recognising the pecuniary sacrifice made by Mr Blagrove. There were two concerts, in the arrangements of which Mr Proctor Baker and Mr Blagrove laboured assiduously, on 4th May, 1859, at the Victoria Rooms, constituting the Bristol Handel Centenary Commemoration, and intended to augment the funds for the restoration of Redcliff Church. Mr Blagrove's name appears as leader of the band; but he was much more than this, since he carried out all the arrangements with the principal vocalists, professional members of the band etc. The list of patrons contains, among others, the president of the Canynge Society and the president of the Redcliff Church Restoration Committee.
AS MERCHANT
The deceased had from a comparatively early age been connected with the corn trade of Bristol. His father, Mr William Baker, founded the business now carried on by Messrs Spillers and Baker between 50 and 60 years ago, and at an early age Mr Proctor Baker was connected with the undertaking. In spite of a fire, the business was extended about 10 years after it was started, and in 1889 came the amalgamation with Messrs Spillers, of Cardiff. When that was accomplished, Mr Proctor Baker retired from business. He was a thoroughly keen and clever business man and was the pioneer of the rolling system of milling in this part of the world. Mr Proctor Baker married the daughter of the Rev. William Scott, vicar of St. Olave, Old Jewry, London, and editor of the 'Saturday Review'. Her brother was Mr Clement William Scott, the dramatic critic. When, some years ago, his comedy of humble life, "Off the Line", with Toole in the principal part, was presented at the Prince's Theatre, no wonder that two of the most interested occupants of the orchestra stalls were Mr and Mrs Proctor Baker. Their daughter some time ago married to the Rev. Beresford Pierse, formerly a curate at Redcliff Church, and now of the Eton College Mission.
14/10/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Philip Ashby Phelps
DEATH OF THE REV. P. A. PHELPS
We deeply regret to announce the death of the Rev. Philip Ashby Phelps, at his residence, 29, Berkeley Square, Clifton. The deceased clergyman, who was rector of St. John's with St. Lawrence, was a member of a well-known Wiltshire family. Born in Wiltshire, he was educated at Marlborough College, afterwards was exhibitioner at Queen's College, Oxford, where he took a double second class in Moderations, third class in Lit. Hum, and honorary fourth in mathematics. He obtained his B.A. degree in 1863, and was M.A. in 1865. In the same year he was ordained by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, and received priest's orders in 1867. On leaving Oxford he became assistant master of King's School, Canterbury, after which he was for twenty-one years assistant master at Clifton College. He received the appointment of curate of St. James's, Clifton, 1868; and was curate of Emmanuel Church, Clifton from 1869 to 1885. In 1876 he was chosen chaplain to the Mayor of Bristol (Sir G. W. Edwards), and since 1885 he was rector of St. John the Baptist with St. Lawrence. He was very popular in the city, and connected with several undertakings which had for their object the improvement of the working classes. Among other bodies with which he was associated was the Committee for Promoting the Better Housing of the Poor, and as chairman of that committee he did a great deal of useful work. He assisted in the promotion and extension of evening classes for domestic economy and kindred subjects. As honorary clerical secretary of the Bristol Scripture Readers' Association and the Bristol Clerical Education Society he was a familiar figure on the platforms. The deceased took a keen interest in athletic and musical affairs, and while at Clifton College he became popular through the manner in which he furthered any object which conduced to the well-being of the pupils. His musical talent was generally admitted, and while Mr W. F. Trimnell remained music master at the College the Rev. P A. Phelps at the breaking-up concert was one who took part in the masters' quartet. He was a member both of the Bristol Madrigal Society and the Bristol Royal Orpheus Glee Society, and greatly enjoyed taking his share in the vocal efforts of these choirs upon the occasion of their Ladies' Nights. As clergyman of a parish in one of the busiest parts of the city he was most devoted to his duties, and the schools were his especial care, as might be expected from the ardour with which he pursued his labours while at Clifton College. He had been laid aside from his parish work for about three months.
Yesterday morning, preaching at the Church of St. John the Baptist, the Rev. Edward Mortimer (vicar of St. Michael and All Angels) made a feeling reference to the deceased, of whom he had been a great friend. At the close of the service the Dead March in 'Saul' was played on the organ.
13/11/1907
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Llewellin Thomas
DEATH OF MR C. L. THOMAS
The death is announced of Mr Charles Llewellin Thomas, which event took place at his residence in Oakfield Road, Clifton, on Monday evening. The deceased, who was a partner in the firm of Messrs L. Thomas and Son, was widely known and respected. In earlier years he carried on an extensive business as builder at Portishead, and at that time superintended and successfully carried out several public and private buildings in that part of Somerset. In later years he has been associated in co-partnership with his brother, Mr W. K. Thomas, and, until laid low with illness, took a most active interest in the concerns of the firm, gaining and holding the confidence and respect of his numerous clients and workmen. In tangible proof the employees approached Mr C. L. Thomas a year or two ago, and presented a beautifully illuminated address. During his many years residence at Portishead the deceased gentleman actively identified himself with every movement that tended to the progress and prosperity of the village. He was an enthusiastic cricketer, and his play often spelt victory for his side. He was also an ardent Volunteer. He distinguished himself in the Mason Order, passing the presidential chairs in the Craft and Arch degrees and attaining Provincial Grand rank in each grade. Mr Thomas promoted many entertainments, and was one of the best reciters of the famous "Agrikler" poems. The deceased will be remembered for his kindly disposition and his many acts of unostentatious charity. He was a firm Churchman and a staunch Conservative. Mr Thomas, who was only 53 years of age, succumbed to neuritis. He leaves a widow and a grown up family.
21/09/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edward Halsall
DEATH OF MR EDWARD HALSALL
AN INTERESTING CAREER
We regret to announce the death, which took place early yesterday morning, of Mr Edward Halsall, who was well-known to many business men in the city as 'the Father of the Commercial Rooms'. Though in his hundredth year Mr Halsall as recently as Thursday week visited the rooms, and was then looking well and hearty, but on Sunday he became unwell, and from Tuesday until the time of his death was conscious most of the time, rallying occasionally to recognise the tender care of his wife, who was constantly in attendance upon him. Death occurred yesterday morning about four o'clock from heart failure and decay of nature. Mr Halsall was at one time a watchmaker in Bristol. He had, however, long since retired from business, and resided at No. 4, Somerset Street, Kingsdown. He occupied his ample leisure by attending to matters in connection with the committee of the General Hospital, from the meetings of which institution he was rarely absent; by scrutinising the affairs of many public companies in which he was a shareholder, and by gossip in the Commercial Rooms, of which he was long regarded as the father. That patriarchal phrase, indeed, was applied to him with singular appropriateness, since the 'Commercial Coffee Room', as it was at first intended to name the structure (though the word 'Coffee' was subsequently suppressed), was opened when the deceased had completed his eighth year. To the present generation of subscribers Mr Halsall was a familiar figure, invariably occupying a chair at one of the round tables near a fireplace, either reading a newspaper or joining in conservation with other elderly gentlemen, most of whom he outlived. It was interesting for those citizens who took a pleasure in contemplating the changes which successive improvements have brought about in Bristol to get the deceased to recall events long past. He remembered well the circumstances connected with the Riots in 1831, and took an active share in endeavouring to restore order during that turbulent epoch. He was sworn in as a special constable, and was the first member of the body then formed to enter Queen Square during the orgies of the populace. He related how he saw numbers of the rioters drunk and helpless through the rich wines which they had wantonly consumed. The soldiers, he remarked, backed up the special constables, and he recollected the furniture after it had been taken out of the houses piled up in the Square in order that it might be removed. One celebrity among those he could recall was Madame Tussaud, who had her show of wax work figures in the Assembly Rooms, Prince Street, though she stayed only a limited time in Bristol, and used to go with her sons round the provinces with her exhibition before she settled in the metropolis. He had a distinct recollection of seeing the late Queen when, as Princess Victoria, then only eleven years of age, she visited Clifton, from Malvern with her mother, the Duchess of Kent, on October 19th, 1830. It was in the evening they arrived at Clifton at Burtt's or Long's Hotel, opposite the Mall. They were received by large numbers of people, who appeared delighted to see the Princess. The excitement was not great, but the spectators experienced much interest in the appearance of the Royal maiden, and at the hotel Sir John Coursy held lights before her, and the whole of the Mall was lighted with variegated lamps. Mr Halsall formed one of a number of business men who assisted in the formation of Bristol Stock Exchange. In the record of a special meeting of the Bristol Stock Exchange Association held on March 27th, 1845, Mr J. K. Haberfield (he had not then been knighted), president, and Mr Thomas Carlisle, vice-president, the name of Mr Edward Halsall appears, together with the names of John Chilcott, Henry Oldland, R. H. Webb, F. Barnard, W. H. Somerton, and others. As an active pedestrian Mr Halsall, until he was ninety years old, used to accomplish walks which few young men would care to take regularly, as he regarded ten miles an ordinary distance to cover in a day. He had secured the affectionate regard of all who were accustomed to meet him, especially in the Commercial Rooms, and when he was present there on attaining his 93rd birthday, he soon found himself surrounded by a group of friends who heartily congratulated him. One gentleman presented him with a bouquet of flowers which lay safeguarded on the table during the rest of his sitting as he read the news of the day from various journals. Mr Halsall had the honour of breakfasting many years ago with the Prince Consort and Queen Victoria at Balmoral, with some members of the British Association. He was greatly interested in various sciences, and had also travelled abroad a good deal.
31/08/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Alfred Edward Aust Lawrence
DEATH OF DR A. E. AUST LAWRENCE
It is with regret we record the death of Dr. Alfred Edward Aust Lawrence, of Richmond Hill, Clifton, which took place on Thursday with painful suddenness at Bishopsteignton, near Teignmouth, where the deceased gentleman, with his wife and family, had gone to spend his holiday. They left Clifton in the early part of August, and then, as well as up till Wednesday night, Dr Aust. Lawrence appeared to be enjoying his usual good health. He appeared to have made Bishopsteignton his headquarters, and moved about for various excursions. On Thursday morning he was found dead in bed, and the evidence offered at the inquest, held later in the day, revealed the fact that he had died from heart failure. The deceased gentleman was a son of the late Mr W. Scott Lawrence, of Stapleton, and was educated at Bristol and Aberdeen University, taking his degree of M.B., C.M., at the latter place in 1872, and his M.D. in 1874. In the following year he was appointed physician accoucheur at the Bristol General Hospital, but he resigned that position a year or two afterwards, when he was appointed consulting physician accoucheur. For many years he had been professor of midwifery and diseases of women at University College, Bristol, and held that appointment at the time of his death. In that capacity he lectured in the recent session of the College. Deceased had been president of the Bristol Medico-Chirurgical Society, and was at the time of his death president-elect of the Bath and Bristol branch of the British Medical Association. For several years, too, Dr Aust. Lawrence had been, and was at the time of his death, a vice-president of the Obstetrical Society of London, and he was a leading authority in his special subject in the whole of the West of England and South Wales district. He took part in the proceedings of his section at the late meeting of the British Medical Association at Cheltenham, and in 1894, when the association visited Bristol, he was also particularly active in connection with his special branch. It was mainly to obstetrics that the deceased gentleman devoted his studies and researches, and as a result he became author of numerous communications and papers, as well as medical writings on the subject. Dr Aust Lawrence was 53 years of age, and he leaves a widow and two daughters, for whom the deepest sympathy will be felt in their painfully sudden bereavement. Yesterday afternoon they returned from Teignmouth to Clifton, and late in the evening the remains of the deceased gentleman wee also brought up from Devonshire.
03/08/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. James Eustace Brenan
SUDDEN DEATH OF CANON BRENAN
It is with regret that we announce the sudden death of the Rev. James Eustace Brenan, honorary canon of Bristol Cathedral and vicar of Emmanuel Church, Clifton. Yesterday morning his son received a telegram that the rev. gentleman had died at Bergen, Norway, whither he had gone for a holiday. He preached at Emmanuel Church last Sunday morning, and it was noticed that he delivered his sermon with unusual animation. On Tuesday he left Bristol, and seemed in good spirits, one of his two sons accompanying him. No doubt the sudden death of his wife on the 12th of May last year, when on a visit at Lsleworth, was deeply felt by him, but he appeared cheerful when he departed from this city, and said he looked forward to the change of scene with great pleasure. The intelligence of his decease will occasion the utmost grief to the members of his congregation, who were deeply attached to him, and the clergy will miss one who was an attached friend. Mr Brenan was the second vicar of Emmanuel, having succeeded the Rev. T. G. Lucock, to whom the living was given by the Simeon Trustees. The deceased was a student at Trinity College, Dublin. He became curate at Douglas, Cork, from 1859 to 1861; was curate at Harold's Cross, Dublin, from 1861 to 1864; incumbent of Albert Chapel, Dublin, from 1864 to 1869; was secretary of the Jews' Society from 1869 to 1873; and vicar of Christ Church, Ramsgate, from 1873 to 1892. In the latter year he became vicar of Emmanuel, Clifton, and in 1899 received the appointment of honorary canon of Bristol Cathedral. At Ramsgate he was much beloved, and Mrs Brenan did a great deal of useful work, taking an active part in the establishment of a house of rest. The same desire to benefit those around him was manifested by Mr Brenan when he removed to Clifton. He took much interest in the boys engaged in the smack fishery, and for some time acted as secretary of the Church Missionary Society, with his wife presenting £100 towards it funds. He was well supported in his church labours by the wardens, Mr G. H. Mead and Mr A. Balfour, and not long ago they were in communication with him respecting a memorial window to Mrs Brenan. A committee had been formed, and the subject of the window was discussed, one feature being children brought to Christ, highly appropriate as the window is to be placed in the baptistery near the font. The decease was about 65 years of age.
19/03/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Simon Short
DEATH OF MR SIMON SHORT
We regret to announce the death, at his residence, Aldersyde, Horfield, of Mr Simon Short, who had for many years taken a prominent part in the temperance movement in Bristol. Mr Short, who was in his 76th year, was the son of a soldier who fought at Waterloo, and died when the boy was five. Born in Bristol in 1824, young Simon went to sea, and experienced bitter treatment from drunken sailors. It was in his 18th year that he heard a temperance address in Tailors' Hall, Broad Street, from Mr Robert Charleton, and thereafter signed the pledge. At about the same time he came under deep religious conviction, the joint result of which was that three years later he undertook work in connection with the Bethel Ship. He served as Seamen's Missionary in this connection for thirty years, when he left for Liverpool. After a few years' absence he returned to Bristol, and became hon. superintendent of the mission, a post which failing health compelled him to resign. In his early years he went to the sailors, and to the navvies at work upon the new railways. He would climb the deck of a ship or mount a wagon in front of a public house, and with clarion voice proclaim the blessings of temperance and the truths of the Gospel. Sometimes he was thrown into the water or had his coat torn to shreds, but he fought on, and hundreds of men had cause to bless the day they heard his voice. Even in those early years he had the practical idea of Temperance reform, and planted sheds on quays and near the railway cuttings in order to supply the workmen with hot and unintoxicating beverages. In 1862, the provision assumed more tangible shape by the opening of a coffee tavern in West Street. A cocoa boat was maintained in the Floating Harbour, and later a British Workman public-house was established. Subsequently other refreshment-rooms were opened and managed successfully by Mr Short, and then his fame spread throughout England. Visitors came to examine the rooms and to learn the secret of their success. In the next decade Mr Robert Lockhart, a Liverpool merchant, had associated with him a number of friends whose capital enabled several cocoa rooms to be opened in the great seaport of the North. The promoters persuaded the committee of the Bethel Mission in Bristol to spare Mr Short for six weeks, to show them 'how to do it'. In 1875, therefore, he visited Liverpool, and the six weeks became two years; the number of houses increased to 36, and not only were real boons to the working population, but a source of profit to the directors of the company. In 1877 Mr Short and his sons accompanied Mr Lockhart to Newcastle-on-Tyne, where eleven cocoa rooms were opened, and several of these are to be found in the best business centres catering at moderate charges, not only for the artisan class, but for clerks and business men and women. From Newcastle Mr Short went to Bradford, where the system was established, and early in the eighties he returned to his native city. In High Street, Bristol, he took over a cocoa tavern, which he conducted with satisfactory financial results to himself. On the walls of the large room on its first floor were several framed addresses presented to Mr Short. One bore date September 26th, 1877, and was from the employees of the British Workman Public House Company. Another, dated June 20th, 1892, was presented to 'the Father of the Coffee Tavern Movement' from the National Coffee Tavern Association, of which he was president. On the same date, commemorating fifty years of total abstinence, was one from the Bristol Temperance Society, signed by its officers. Four years later (January 25th, 1896) a double jubilee was observed, that of fifty years' connection with the Bethel Mission, and his golden wedding. A handsome address, surmounted by a ship, was presented from the Bethel Committee. Besides the active services he rendered to the cause of temperance, Mr Short was useful as a member of the Bristol Board of Guardians. He also preached occasionally in the towns which he visited, his discourses being of an eminently practical character.
21/01/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. G. Clarke
DEATH OF MR E. G. CLARKE
We regret to announce the death of Mr E. G. Clarke, the late Official Receiver for Bristol. Mr Clarke had been ill for several months, and just before Christmas his life was despaired of, but he rallied remarkably, and his condition was gradually improving until Thursday, when there was a relapse, and death took place on Saturday afternoon at one o'clock. Mr Clarke was born in Devonshire, but at a very early age came to Bristol. His father, Mr Gustvus Clarke, who lived to the patriarchal age of 89 years, resided for a long period with his son, having retired from business life many years, though he continued to the end of his existence to take a keen interest in public affairs, and in this respect Mr E. G. Clarke followed his example. The father was an ardent Liberal, and filled the office of chairman of the Liberal Association in the District Ward, being succeeded in this post by Mr Charles Townsend, between whom and Mr E. G. Clarke there were strong ties of friendship, indeed the deceased gentleman used frequently to say that Mr Townsend was one of his oldest companions. Mr E. G. Clarke was educated at Portland Square, at a private school kept by Mr Daniell, a member of a well-known family, who were staunch Nonconformists. The lad had for his schoolfellows Charles Townsend and Charles Hoskins Low, both of whom became aldermen of Bristol. In those days the houses in the two squares in St. Paul's and the immediate neighbourhood were tenanted by some leading citizens, the Willses, Ditchetts, and Sherrings amongst them, and young Clarke early became acquainted with them, and throughout his mature years he was an intimate friend of Sir William Henry Wills. He obtained a situation in the office of Messrs Barnard and Thomas, accountants, Albion Chambers, the firm afterwards known as Barnard, Thomas, Tribe, and Co., when Mr Wilberforce Tribe became a partner. Mr Clarke early manifested great ability, and his services in connection with the large and important business - for the firm acted as accountants to a large number of public companies and private individuals not merely in Bristol but throughout the West of England and South Wales - were so valued that in September, 1873, he became a partner, the other members of the firm then being Mr George Thomas and Mr Wilberforce Tribe.
It is not saying too much to state that Mr Clarke was soon known as pre-eminent among accountants and consequently no one felt surprised upon the failure of the West of England and South Wales District Bank, in September, 1878, that he should be appointed joint liquidator with Mr Turquand. The larger portion of the work arising out of the liquidation devolved upon Mr Clarke. The proceedings lasted a considerable time, and in August, 1879, the Home Secretary (Sir Richard Cross) ordered a prosecution to be instigated against the directors for issuing alleged fraudulent balance sheets. The trial took place in London, in April, 1880, at first at the Central Criminal Court, and subsequently, as a larger building seemed desirable, in the Court at the Guildhall. The evidence of Mr E. G. Clarke was the most important, as he had gone thoroughly through the accounts. He was in the witness-box for a long time, and the ready manner in which he afforded information upon different points that bore upon the issues excited admiration from the large number of business men assembled to listen to the proceedings. Mr Turquand was called more as a matter of form, since he admitted that most of the investigation had been carried on by the deceased. The Lord Chief justice (Sir Alexander Cockburn) complimented Mr Clarke upon his ability, and in truth he well deserved the praise bestowed. When his turn came to give evidence he was prepared with a multiplicity of necessary documents which he had carefully collated and arranged round the lower part of the witness-box so that he knew by their order where to select any paper asked for by the many members of the bar who appeared for the defendants. This trial was remarkable on account of an interview between the Judge and the witness. Mr Clarke did not divulge its nature till some years had elapsed. The Chief Justice, after Mr Clarke's long evidence was concluded, sent for him while the business of the court was proceeding, and in a low voice asked him if, in examining the affairs of the bank, he had come across any indications of fraud or falsification. Mr Clarke said he was fairly staggered at the question, and remarked, "Is not that the issue being tried?". "Yes," said his Lordship; "But did you?" "No," was the response. "I thought not," said the Judge. It is a matter of history that at the close of summing up from the Chief Justice the jury speedily returned a verdict of acquittal. The incidents of the bank failure, and the interest awakened generally in the trail, led to a publisher offering Mr Clarke a substantial amount if he would write an account of the financial catastrophe. He, however, felt that to supply details of the event would cause pain to many persons, and declined the offer. There was a rather humorous feature in relation to his inquiry, from persons in all parts of the United Kingdom and likewise from aboard. The majority were strangers to him, and they had gathered from the sources of information they possessed scanty information even of his name, for he had one letter addressed to him as "Albion Chambers, Esq", and another as "E. G. Liquidator, Esq".
The deceased not only was an excellent accountant, he took much interest in mercantile affairs in the city, and as a member of the Chamber of Commerce did much useful work. When the meeting of the Associated Chambers was held at Cardiff in September, 1873, he with Mr John Evans, Mr John Lucas, Mr Henry Taylor, Mr Leonard Bruton (secretary), and Mr H. J. Spear (assistant secretary), represented the Bristol Chamber. At the meeting a resolution was submitted by the Newcastle Chamber on the question of the advisability of using adhesive stamps on bills of exchange and bills of lading. Colonel E. S. Hill supported the resolution, and was followed by Mr E. G. Clarke. Subsequently Mr Clarke moved a resolution upon the evasion of the Bills of Sale Act. He considered that the practice of executing deeds of attornment by which a debtor gave a preferential security on his effects without the publicity of registration, thus practically evading the Bills of Sales Act, was prejudicial to the interests of trade; and that those deeds ought either to be declared illegal or made public by enforced registration. Mr Clarke referred to instances which had come under his own notice where the practice complained of had prevailed. He asked that some steps might be taken by the Executive to remedy grievances which the motion deprecated, and with a slight modification the resolution was carried. This meeting of the Associated Chambers was signalised through the action taken by Mr John Evans, of Bristol, on the load line, which was then a burning question on account of the statements of Mr Samuel Plimsoll.
Amongst other useful work which the deceased accomplished was that as honorary secretary of the Anchor Society, a position he held for a long number of years. In 1877 he was invited to become president of that society, succeeding his friend Mr Samuel Lang. The deceased's collection amounted to £940, which was reckoned at that time a very substantial amount. Mr Clarke caused to be circulated amongst the company copies of a neat little pamphlet which he had compiled "Concerning Edward Colston, of Bristol and London, merchant and his anniversary, with some facts and figures". In an introduction he admitted that not much could claim to be original beyond the idea and the arrangement, but feeling that the growth of the Colston Societies was not a matter of personal recollections to the increasing numbers who year by year attended the commemorations, and having held the office of honorary secretary to the Anchor Society for ten years, it occurred to him in the year of his presidency to put a few facts together about the man and about the societies which did honour to his memory. In his pamphlet Mr Clarke suggested that the Colston Societies might contribute to the University College, either for scholarships or to form the nucleus of a building fund, "and if each society would set apart twenty per cent. of its available income this thing would be done, with yet sufficient left for charity, and be quite within the scope of Colston's own intentions".
When upwards of 15 years ago the operations of the Bankruptcy Act were changed and Official Receivers appointed, the deceased was given the important position of Official Receiver for the Bristol District, in which are included Bath, Frome, and Wells. He was eminently fitted for the duties, and entered upon his work in an office in the Bank Chambers, Corn Street, and afterwards in the building erected in Baldwin Street for the Inland revenue Department. This appointment necessitated his severing his connection with the firm in Albion Chambers, which had become Tribe, Clarke, and Co., a style still retained. The age limit in connection with his office had been reached, but so capable was he felt to be, and so popular was he in the city, that his term was twice renewed. A gratifying feature about the second extension in May last was that Mr Clarke's application was, entirely without his knowledge, supported by a petition from the public of Bristol, probably unique in its representative and spontaneous character. "Your memorialists," the signatories said to the Board of Trade, "have known Mr Clarke long and intimately, and are able to testify that he has performed his work in the administration of the Bankruptcy Acts here for the past 16 years with the greatest ability, judgment, and fairness". And they wound up with an expression of opinion that the retirement of so valuable an official would be detrimental to the interests of the public service.
Mr Clarke was heartily congratulated by his friends, and not unnaturally felt considerable gratification, both at the success of his application and at the remarkable display of good will on the part of the citizens. One feature in connection with his duties as Official Receiver deserves to be recorded. At the commencement of each year he prepared a careful digest of local bankruptcy work during the previous twelve months, a document not merely useful as affording information respecting the cases which were classified, but also containing suggestions of a valuable character. These particulars being published in extenso in the Bristol newspapers, were available to the trading community, whom they specially concerned, as well as the general public.
In recalling the public work which Mr Clarke undertook, we may mention the fact that he was secretary of the original Dockisation Association which was presided over by the late Mr Charles Hill. After that time he was a partner in the firm of accountants in the Albion Chambers, and he opened an office specially on the ground floor in the Chambers for the accommodation of the Dockisation Committee, who held several meetings in various wards, notably Clifton and Bedminster, at which the deceased was one of the principal speakers.
The efforts of the deceased, in conjunction with Mr J. W. Arrowsmith and Mr H. J. Spear, to promote the extensive Industrial Exhibition held on the open space near the Stone Bridge in 1893 and 1894 will be remembered. The same gentlemen were concerned in the management of the exhibitions at the Rifle Drill Hall in 1883 and 1887, besides being prominent in arranging for other displays in that building in more recent years. So many sided was Mr Clarke that there were few undertakings started in Bristol which had for their objet the benefit of the people that did not obtain his support and interest. He was chosen chairman of the County Ground Company when it was formed ten years ago, and he was president of many local athletic clubs, notably the Bristol Rugby. Healthy sport of all descriptions found in him a warm advocate. He was concerned in the management of the County of Gloucester Cricket Club, was partial to lacrosse, hockey, and lawn tennis, and identified with the Ariel Rowing Club. Eminently social in his disposition, he received numerous invitations to public dinners, where his neat and witty addresses always afforded pleasure. It is not too much to say that he was one of the most effective after-dinner speakers in the city. His powers as a singer were not great, but he possessed a keen delight in listening to musical performances, and hence became one of the committee of the Bristol Festival Society, and vice-president of the Society of Gleemen. One of his hobbies was to have the control of a newspaper, but here did not prove fortunate, though the experience gained enabled him to garnish some amusing speeches which he made at the annual dinners of the Bristol and West of England Press Fund. He had long meditated inviting some of his many friends to meet him around the social board, and an opportunity offered on the completion of the new offices of the Official Receiver in Baldwin Street. The occasion when the gathering was held at St. Stephen's Restaurant, and Mr Clarke proved a most genial chairman, will not be forgotten by those who were bidden. The deceased had a seat on the directorate of the Zoological Gardens Company, and was a member of the committee of the Commercial Rooms. He had been twice married, and resided for many years at Woodside, Redland, subsequently removing to 9, Westfield Park.
Mr Clarke resigned his position of Official Receiver at the end of last year, and at the sitting of the court last week, his Honour Judge Austin, in welcoming the new Official Receiver, made an allusion to Mr Clarke, in the course of which he said:-
"During his long service of, I think, 17 years, Mr Clarke won for himself the esteem and affection of all who were around him. He brought to the performance of his duties a great experience both of men and of figures, a ripe judgment, a kindly heart, and a pleasant manner, and it was no wonder, therefore, that he made a most popular Official Receiver, as well as a most efficient one."
15/12/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Killigrew Wait
DEATH OF MR W. K. WAIT
The long illness of Mr W. K. Wait terminated fatally on Saturday morning. That his condition was very serious had been realised, but on Friday evening there appeared no indication that the end was so near. Mr Wait, however, passed away at half-past nine on the following morning. Although to a younger generation the deceased gentleman was little more than a name, it is not so many years ago that he was one of the foremost of Bristol citizens in commercial, municipal, and political life. He was a son of the late Mr W. K. Wait, who was an alderman of the city, and sheriff, in 1837. He was born at Cote in December, 1826, educated at Bristol College, and entered the Bristol Council in 1867, was Mayor in 1869-70, and created an alderman in 1886, which office he held until 1891, when he resigned. He was president of the Dolphin Society in 1867, and was elected M.P. for Gloucester in 1873. A great deal of excitement prevailed in the city on the polling day, but it was felt by Mr Wait's supporters some time before the result was declared that he was the successful candidate, and his leading supporters, in spite of his protests, made him address the crowd from a window at the Bell Hotel. After the declaration of the poll the Conservative triumph seemed complete, and Mr Wait became highly popular, as he was re-elected in 1874, though he was unsuccessful at the contests in 1880 and 1885, after which he did not seek to be again elected While he represented Gloucester he identified himself with the institutions, and acted as a steward at the Musical Festivals.
Mr Wait was one of the first supporters of the Children's Hospital, and in 1865, with Messrs Mark Whitwill, Augustus Phillips, and other philanthropic Bristolians, signed an appeal for subscriptions, the intention at first being to fit up a suitable house for the reception of a few patients, so that only £300 a year was asked for. The dwelling in the Royal Fort, however, ultimately developed into the present edifice in the Tudor style. The name of Mr Wait came prominently before the citizens in 1870, when (during his mayoralty) he offered to build the new north porch of the Cathedral, estimated to cost £1,200, provided a like sum was subscribed to raise the north wall of the nave for its reception. The required sum was soon forthcoming. The new north porch in 1876 led to a fierce controversy in the city. According to the architect's designs statues of the four great doctors of the Western Church - Gregory, Jerome, Ambrose, and Augustine were to adorn the portal, and the figures were executed at a cost of about £450, and they elevated to the niches constructed for them about the middle of February, 1876. They remained occasioning little remark for some days; but at length the local newspapers contained an assertion authorised by Canon Girdlestone that the statues had been erected without the consent of the Dean and Chapter; whereupon Mr Wait retorted that the plans, including the figures, were submitted to, and approved by the capitulator body in 1867. Subsequently Mr Wait admitted that this statement was stronger than the facts warranted. Dean Elliott, who was in Italy while the controversy was in its early stages, having returned to Bristol, presided at a chapter, and the majority decided that the Dean should take measures for the removal of the figures. As the committee appointed to carry out the restoration of the Cathedral intimated they would resist this step until the figures were declared illegal, some workmen were secretly engaged, and the statues removed, though not before they had been injured. The Dean informed Mr Wait that the Chapter had not sanctioned the subjects of the figures, and had taken the sketches in the design to represent the Evangelists, Mr Wait was associated with the well-known firm of Wait and James, corn merchants, etc., of this city and Gloucester. For many years he took an active part both in the municipal and political life of the city, but since his health gave way, seven or eight years ago, he lived in comparative retirement. Mr Wait leaves four sons and two daughters. Mr H. W. K. Wait, his eldest son, has followed his father's example in showing an interest in municipal matters, and sits in the Council for the Central Ward.
21/01/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Vincent Stuckey
DEATH OF MR VINCENT STUCKEY
The announcement of the death of Mr Vincent Stuckey, which occurred at his residence, Hill House, Langport, in the early hours of yesterday morning, will be received with universal regret by public men throughout the county of Somerset, and with much sorrow by his numerous personal friends. Not only in his native county, but throughout the West of England - and, indeed, wherever Stuckey's Bank is known - was his name revered; and his happy personality will long be remembered. For the last few years it had been no secret that Mr Stuckey had shown symptoms of weakness of the heart, and he gradually retired from his many public offices and from any active participation in public affairs. For nearly twelve months he had been confined to his residence, and was only seen by his relatives and immediate friends. His medical attendant, Dr Johnstone, of Langport, was summoned on the night of Friday, when he found his patient suffering from haemorrhage from the nose. He was unable to be removed from the sitting-room to his bedroom, and a temporary bed was made up, where he remained under the constant attendance of Dr. Johnstone, until he peacefully passed away at 1.50 yesterday morning. Mrs Stuckey and his eldest daughter (Mrs Pinney) were with him.
Born at Staplegrove, Somerset, in May, 1829, Mr Stuckey was, therefore, in his 73rd year. His father was one of the Somerset Woods, and his mother was Miss Stuckey, of Hill House, daughter of Mr Vincent Stuckey, the founder of Stuckey's Banking Company.
On the death of his grandmother in 1861, Mr Stuckey, in accordance with the wish of his grandfather, assumed the name of Stuckey, and came into possession of his grandfather's property. He was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, and afterwards travelled on the Continent. He joined Stuckey's Banking Company in 1851, soon becoming a director, and, with his cousin, the late Mr Walter Bagehot, had much to do with its management. In 1875, on the death of Mr Ambrose Lethbridge, he was unanimously elected chairman of the bank, which position he occupied until 1900, when he retired through ill-health, and was succeeded by Mr Hepry W. Hoskyns, of North Perrott. In 1865 Mr Stuckey married Mary, daughter of the Rev. Prowse Lethbridge, and granddaughter of Sir Thomas Lethbridge, of Sandhill Park, Somerset, who survives him. He leaves two daughters (his only children), the elder being married to Captain Pinney, son of Colonel Pinney, of Somerset Erleigh; and the other to Mr J. Gundrv, the Hyde, Bridport. The late Mr Stuckey was a J.P. and a D.L. for Somerset, for which county he served the office of High Sheriff in 1883. He remarkable interest in public affairs, and for many years he held the chairmanship of many public bodies, from several of which he only recently retired in consequence of the state of his health. Among other offices, he was for years chairman of the Somerset Drainage Commissioners, the Langport Drainage Board, the old Highway Board and the Board of Guardians of the Langport Union. He was also chairman of the Langport Town Trust, of the Board of Governors of the Langport Grammar School, and of the Langport and Huish Episcopi Board of Schools. He was a member of the old Corporation of Langport (disestablished in 1883), under which he served the office of portreeve. The late Mr Stuckey took great and active interest in the volunteer movement in his native county. For 28 years he was in the West Somerset Yeomanry Cavalry, being for most part of that time captain commandant of the Langport and Somerset troop, retiring in 1879 with the rank of major, and permission to wear the uniform. At the same time he commanded the Langport company of Volunteer Rifles. Being a popular captain, he drew the sons of the principal agriculturists and tradesmen of the district into the ranks of the yeomanry and volunteer rifle, and it was his pride that his troop and his corps of volunteers were esteemed the smartest lot of men in either regiment, and (population considered) numerically as strong as any. In politics Mr Stuckey was a Conservative of the old school, and never swerved from the traditions of his party. In support of his opinions, he was fearless and outspoken, and never hesitated in declaring his belief that local affairs in the county were managed just as well and as efficiently under the old institutions, before the advent of councils and boards increased the expenses of administration. He was several times approached to become a candidate for parliamentary honours as a representative of one of the divisions of his county, but his time was so much taken up with his multifarious duties that he was obliged to decline the honour. He was an ardent Churchman, and all movements for the welfare of the Establishment never failed to receive his earnest and active support. His own parish church of All Saints and the neighbouring church of St. Mary, Huish Episcopi are indebted to his bounty and exertions for maintenance and restoration, and the Sunday Schools belonging to each have always received his most generous support. As a magistrate Mr Stuckey was painstaking and just, as a landlord he was kind and generous, and as a citizen he was affable and courteous to rich and poor alike, a gentleman in every sense of the word. His death will be deplored by all who knew him, and his place will be difficult to fill.
07/08/1903
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Mark Whitwill
A NOBLE CITIZEN
The news we publish with deep sorrow today of the sudden death of one of the noblest citizens Bristol has ever possessed will be received with equal regret by all classes of the community. Mr Mark Whitwill was known to Bristol in many capacities, but notably in four. He was eminent as one of the foremost of our commercial men and as truly a pioneer in that awakening of Bristol which can be traced back as far as the Free Port movement in 1849, in which Mark Whitwill, as a young man, took part. From that time to the present the port has been progressive, and in recent years the rate of progress has been more marked, it is but just to honour the work of the pioneers who did their utmost to stimulate the enterprise of their fellow-citizens, and to enable the city to take the position to which its natural advantages entitle it. Mr Whitwill's firm some thirty years ago, revived the direct steamship trade between Bristol and the United States, and he was one of the proposers of the Avonmouth Dock, when the City Council shrank from the task of an extension at the mouth of the river. A member, and at one time chairman, of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr Whitwill was always the advocate of progress, particularly in dock matters, and his high personal character and the respect in which he was held made him, during the most active years of his life, a noteworthy example of the highest type of commercial man. We remember Mr Whitwill in the second place for his municipal work. For some years he was one of the representatives of the old undivided ward of St. Philip and Jacob, and he gave to his municipal duties, as to the magisterial responsibilities that were long ago imposed upon him, the most diligent and conscientious attention. Next we have to remember Mr Whitwill as one of the foremost workers in the great cause of popular education. He was in the prime of life when Mr Forster's Education Act was passed, and it was generally recognised in the city that a gentleman so deeply interested in child life would be a fitting member of the newly created School Board. The first election, which resulted in the selection of as powerful and able a board as any provincial city ever contained, was a wonderful tribute to Mr Whitwill, for he was placed at the head of the poll by thousands of votes above any other candidate. He was immediately elected vice-chairman (Mr Lewis Fry was chairman), and for twenty-one years he gave to the work of the School Board an enormous amount of his time and work. For nine years as vice-chairman, and for twelve years as chairman, Mr Whitwill laboured on the School Board with a devotion that cannot be too highly praised. His courtesy, his fairness, his breadth of view in presiding over the deliberations of a necessarily heterogeneous body were warmly acknowledged. We repeat elsewhere the comments of his colleagues on the occasion of his retirement from the School Board, and it will be recollected that similar public utterances came from men of all creeds. When a man with the great experience of the Bishop of Hereford could speak of Mr Whitwill as one of the men most respected, no further evidence is needed as to the influence Mr Whitwill exerted, or of the esteem in which he was held by all whose esteem is worth having.
If Mr Whitwill's public life, or at least that part of his active and strenuous life which brought him before the public, had been confined to the tasks of which we have already written, it would have furnished a record of great public spirit, and signal devotion to the interests of his fellow-citizens. But all the work of which we have spoken was as nothing in his own view, and probably made no greater demands upon his time, compared with the noble hobby of his life. Mr Whitwill was a deeply religious man.
He had a lively interest in all forms of philanthropic enterprise, and it is a coincidence that last evening, almost simultaneously with our receiving the sad intelligence of his death, we received a report of the last public utterance of his life, in which only a few hours ago he commended to a gathering at St. Werburgh's the enjoyment to be derived from a study of beauty and of nature. It was a fitting close to a beautiful life, illustrating as it did the eminently practical nature of Mr Whitwill's religion, the breadth of sympathy that took him to a gathering of a religious communion to which he did not belong, and his friendly and unaffected interest in all that could brighten the lives of the workers. But it was in the Children's Hospital that all these qualities of Mr Whitwill were centred and best displayed. The noble building at the top of St. Michael's Hill is his monument. For nearly forty years Mr Whitwill has been pre-eminently "the children's friend". Long ago when the hospital was smaller and its work was less known than at present, Mr Whitwill was its devoted supporter, and he gave it his daily personal devotion. It is said that he never missed a day without calling at the Hospital, and the support that has been given it by all classes, both regularly and when special efforts have been needed, have been due to Mr Whitwill far more than to anyone else. It is no exaggeration, it is a strict and literal fact, that there are hundreds of our fellow citizens now living who would have perished in infancy or early childhood but for the great institution which Mr Whitwill nourished and tended and was the joy and pride of his life. Mr Whitwill had great mental capacity. He might have attained great wealth if he had been less devoted to child life in Bristol, and there may be business men who still think that the time he gave to the Children's Hospital and to the School Board might have been employed to mere lucrative advantage. But that Mr Whitwill's deliberate choice, from a high sense of duty, was what it was is a matter for the deepest thankfulness on the part of his fellow-citizens. The city is the better for having had Mr Whitwill in its midst, and now that the long and beneficent career has ended with startling suddenness, we feel sure we are expressing the general feeling in placing on record an appreciation of a life so lovable, so good, and so full of self-sacrifice.
10/01/1905
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Eubulus Williams
DEATH OF DR EUBULUS WILLIAMS
We regret to announce the death of Dr Eubulus Williams, which took place yesterday, after a protracted illness, at his residence, 1 Lansdown Place, Victoria Square, Clifton. The deceased, who was the fifth son of the late Mr Joseph Williams, of Williton, Somerset, was born on the 20th July, 1831, and was therefore in his seventy-fourth year. He was educated at Taunton College, and at an early age matriculated at London University. He afterwards studied at Guy's Hospital, with which his connection was always maintained. Three of his brothers also received professional training at this famous institution - Joseph, to whose memory a public monument was erected at Arno's Vale in recognition of his heroic services during the cholera epidemic in Bristol; Clement, who, entering the army as surgeon, served in the Crimean war, made great researches in Burmah, and was afterwards appointed first English political agent for Upper Burmah; and a younger brother, Christopher. Very soon after the surgeon's degree was conferred upon him, Dr Eubulus Williams was chosen as house surgeon at Reading Hospital, and in 1855 (the year in which he obtained the M.D. degree) went north on his election as medical superintendent of the Dundee Royal Infirmary. He remained for between two and three years in Scotland, and then spent some time in visiting the medical schools in Paris, Berlin, and Vienna, his object being to acquire personal familiarity with their different methods of treatment. His tour was not a mere hasty run round, for he attended lectures and received certificates from various professors. Returning to England, he, in 1858, became a resident of Bristol, where he began practice, and a few months later he married Margaret, the eldest daughter of the late Mr Patrick Watson, of Dundee. Before he had been long in Bristol, Dr Williams became associated with Dr Mortimer Glanville and the late Dr Henderson in conducting a dispensary in St. James's Square for "diseases of women and children". The effort proved successful, and when it was ultimately merged in the Children's Hospital, on St. Michael's Hill, Dr Williams was elected on the surgical staff. Later he relinquished this position, but in 1863 was re-elected surgeon. His interest in the volunteer movement in the early days was shown by his becoming surgeon to the Bristol Artillery Corps. His practice had been so far in accord with the allopathic school of medicine, but in 1867 certain remarkable cures following homeopathic treatment were brought to his notice, and he was induced to give the subject much attention. As a consequence he became convinced that the principle on which homeopathy is founded - "Similia similibus curantur" (like things are cured by like) - was a safe rule to follow in medical practice, and he made public that opinion in a pamphlet, which besides announcing the change in his views, explained that in adopting homeopathic therapeutics he did "not renounce what is valuable in ordinary practice". This adoption of homeopathy was followed by his resigning his position as surgeon to the Children's Hospital, and about the same time he was chosen physician to Muller's Orphanage. In this great institution he took a deep and continuing interest, and he remained connected with it as physician for 34 years. He was president of the West of England Therapeutical Society from its formation down to 1893, and when the annual congress of the Homeopathic Society was held in Bristol in 1897 was vice-president. The next year the society met in London, and he then filled the presidential chair. It will be judged from his life history that he was a man of independent thought, and one who stood high in his profession; he had a kindly disposition and wide sympathies, and sincere regret will be felt among a large circle of friends that a long and honourable career has been brought to its close.
19/02/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Smith
THE LATE ALDERMAN W. SMITH
PULPIT REFERENCES
The death of Alderman William Smith, which occurred, after a brief illness, on Friday evening, has caused widespread regret in the city. For thirty-five years he had been one of the most conspicuous figures in the active life of Bristol, and he had rendered such service to his fellow townsmen that his name will long be remembered and esteemed. It was in 1865 that Mr Smith first took up his residence in Bristol, and succeeding Mr James Lyon in the commission business, which at that time was carried on in Marsh Street, he quickly took a prominent place amongst the commercial men of the city. After removing to Corn Street Mr Smith extended his business operations in many directions and he became one of the managers of the Bristol and West of England Canadian Land and Mortgage Investment Company, Limited, and the consulship for Chile was also in his hands. After a residence of five years, civic affairs claimed his active interest, and, as member of the Town Council for the Clifton Ward, he was able to bring his foresight and rare business ability to bear on municipal affairs. For 12 years - 1870 to 1882 - he continued to represent the Clifton Ward, but in the latter year a redistribution of seats occurred, and Mr Smith contested, with Mr W. R. Barker, the newly-made Westbury Ward. The fight was a keen one, Mr Smith being defeated by only eight votes. His services in the Council Chamber, however, were recognised in the following year, when he was made an Alderman, and he continued to take the keenest interest in municipal affairs. In the Council House he was never conspicuous for lengthened speeches, but his opinion on subjects under discussion was given with characteristic force, and his utterances always commanded attention. In the year 1876 he held the office of High Sheriff, and a couple of years later he was appointed to the magisterial bench of the city. He was also one of the Justices of the Peace for the Lawford's Gate Division of the County, and on many occasions he has shown kindness of heart and practical sympathy with the poor. But, busy as the late Alderman Smith always was, he still found time to assist in the promotion of music in the city, and his services in this direction cannot be over-estimated. In conjunction with Sir George Edwards and other gentlemen, Mr Smith inaugurated the Bristol Music Festival, and his keen appreciation and judgment of high-class music were of the greatest assistance to the society. The concerts were invariably of the highest class, and many have reason to thank Mr Smith and those who acted with him for their opportunity to hear the best artistes of the day. To the majority of citizens the death of Alderman Smith came as a complete and painful surprise. He was in town as late as Monday last, but after riding home he complained of a cold, and, despite the skill of his medical attendant, serious complications ensued, and he expired at 6.30 pm on Friday from acute pneumonia. The deceased gentleman, who was 75 years of age, leaves a widow and three daughters, all of whom are married. The flag at the Mansion House floated at half-mast yesterday, and in deference to the memory of the deceased alderman the Lord Mayor has postponed the Council meeting which had been fixed for Tuesday. The deceased gentleman had been a regular attendant at Christ Church, Clifton, and last evening the vicar, the Rev. T. C. Chapman, made sympathetic reference to his death, and spoke of the respect in which he was held by his fellow citizens.
At the morning service at the Mayor's Chapel yesterday, the Rev. J. H. Bright said he could not commence his sermon without first alluding to the great loss, the city had sustained by the death on Friday last of Mr William Smith. One could hardly realise that that kindly face, so familiar to them, would be no more seen among them, that they had hidden a long farewell to one who was the genial friend and companion of many, and who was deservedly respected by all who in business relations had to do with him. Very few men had devoted so many years of their life to municipal matters as he. For twelve years he represented Clifton Ward as one of its councillors; during that period, in 1876, he filled the honourable position of High Sheriff, and for the last seventeen years, as an alderman, he had given much of his time, his talents, and his experience, for the benefit of their city. Although he had not been looking well for some little time past, his death came as a shock to them all. It was quite unexpected. It was only on Sunday morning last he was present at his parish church, and on Monday, he believed, was as usual, at his place of business. Truly, in the midst of life they were in death. Might they take hold of the lesson themselves, and at the same time let them pray God that He might comfort, in their hour of sorrow and bereavement, all the members of the family in the great loss they had sustained. In accordance with custom the Funeral March would be played at the close of the service that morning as a tribute of regard to the memory of their departed friend. Mr Bright then preached upon the parable of the Sower, and at the close of the service, as he intimated, the "Dead March" from "Saul" was impressively played. The Right Hon. the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress were among the congregation.
05/05/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mrs Emma Marshall
DEATH OF MRS EMMA MARSHALL
CAREER OF A SUCCESSFUL NOVELIST
The announcement of the death of Mrs Emma Marshall will be read with the deepest regret, not only in Clifton and the West of England, where she has for so many years resided, but everywhere where her many charming writings have been so eagerly read. At the end of March last Mrs Marshall, whilst still engaged upon a serial story, had an attack of influenza. Her illness at first was considered serious, but, as is so often the case with this ailment, complications followed, and death resulted from pneumonia at 11.30 yesterday morning. For a number of years the well-known novelist had made Leigh Woods her home; it was here that she laboured so long upon her literary work, and it was here that her well spent life closed. Almost a week ago her medical advisor - Dr Blagg - gave up hopes of her recovery, but she lingered on until yesterday morning, when she passed peacefully away in the presence of her family.
It would be difficult to convey even the faintest idea of the love Mrs Marshall had for the literary work she was so long engaged upon. Whilst yet a girl she was drawn to story writing, and her early efforts, which were chiefly on behalf of child readers, contained many indications of the gift which in after years developed to such a noteworthy degree. She will, perhaps, never be counted among the great novelists of the time, but her charming books have delighted thousands of readers, both English and foreign, for her books were in many instances translated into other languages than ours, and if genuine appreciation is any reward for a life of literary work, then Mrs Emma Marshall must have been well content with the result of her labours. She was at her best when treating upon historical subjects, and this class of literature has been enriched by many works from Mrs Marshall's pen. Her task was never entered upon lightly, and she seldom relied upon her prolific imagination for building up her historical tales. She invariably studied her subject deeply and thoroughly before weaving it into a tale of delightful interest, and it was this fact, together with the originality and freshness of her style, which made her works so popular. It is hardly necessary to point out to the West-country people how skilfully she has turned to account local historical scenes and incidents. In many instances her pen has drawn attention to and has made familiar local subjects which would otherwise have passed unnoticed save, perhaps, to the student of history. And it was her aim to give something more than a pretty story; her characters were not names only; they lived before the eye of the reader, and perusing the pages of her book one's mind was forcibly carried back to the olden times she loved so much to write about. Her partiality for ancient ecclesiastical architecture is well known; the cathedrals of our land were as familiar to her as was her own fireside. And it is not surprising to find many famous cathedral figuring so frequently in her works. Residence at Norwich, Exeter, and Gloucester gave her opportunities of becoming acquainted with the magnificent old cathedrals in those towns which she readily embraced, and the knowledge she thus acquired has constituted the theme for many interesting articles. Mrs Marshall's first published story was "Happy Days at Fernbank", an unpretentious little work, but "Life's Aftermath", of which 13,000 copies were circulated will rank as her most popular novel. Another success was "Winifred's Journal", whilst amongst her later series "The Master of Musicians, a story of Handel's Days"; "Winchester Meads, in the Days of Bishop Ken", "Under Salisbury Spire, in the Days of George Herbert", and "In the Choir of Westminster Abbey", a story of Henry Purcell's days, were all received with much favour. There was at one time a big demand for Mrs Marshall's shilling books, and "The Tower on the Cliff", "The Two Swords", a story about the plague in Bristol; "Bristol Diamonds", a tale concerning Chatterton, were all widely read. Of her many historical novels Mrs Marshall looked upon "Under Salisbury Spire" as her best work. It is worthy of note that some years ago Princess Christian and Princess Beatrice of Battenbery accepted copies of Mrs Marshall's books. The deceased lady was a prolific writer and during her literary career - which extended over nearly half a century - she published a remarkably large number of books, but the following is a list of some of her most well-known works:- "The White King's Daughter", "The Master of Musicians", "Kensington Palace", "Penhurst Castle", "In the Service of Rachael, Lady Russell", "Winifrede's Journal", "edward's Wife", "Winchester Meads", "Under Salisbury Spire", "In the City of Flowers", "On the Banks of the Ouse", "In Four Reigns", "Under the Mendips", "Mrs Willoughby's Octave", "The Mistress of Tayne Court", "In the East Country", "In Colston's Days", "Constantia Carew", "Dame Alicia Chamberlayne", "Joanne's Inheritance", "Life's Aftermath", "Dorothy's Daughters", "Nowadays", "Mrs Mainwaring", "Heights and Valleys", "Helen's Diary", "Escape from the Tower", "Christabel Kingscote", "Violet Douglas", "Millicent Leigh", "Brothers and Sisters", "Lady Alice", "The First Light on the Eddystone", "Boscombe Chine", "A Lily Among Thorns", "Bristol Bells", "A Romance of the Undercliff", "Up and Down the Pantiles", "The Old Gateway", "Her Season in Bath", "Bristol Diamonds", "The Two Swords", and "The Tower on the Cliff". Mrs Marshall was born at Northrepps, Hill House, near Cromer, being the youngest daughter of the late Mr Simon Martin, and she married, in 1854, Mr Hugh Graham Marshall, of Clifton.
12/03/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Hoskins Low
DEATH OF ALD. C. H. LOW
We regret to announce the death of a prominent member of the Corporation of Bristol, in the decease of Alderman Charles Hoskins Low, who yesterday morning expired at his residence, Towerhurst, Leigh Woods. He was an authority on local dock matters, and gave much attention to the timber trade, being the head of the important firm of Taylor and Low Brothers, timber importers which he founded in 1855 cojointly with his brother, Mr James Beadel Low and the late Mr Henry Taylor, who was in 1879-80 Mayor of the city. The deceased was born at Clifton in 1831, and received his education at private schools. He commenced public life by representing St. Michael's Ward in the Council in 1873, and was elected alderman in 1891. He did much useful work as chairman of the Sanitary Committee, remaining in that position for five years. Indeed, he laboured most enthusiastically for the advancement and welfare of his native city. After presiding over the deliberations of the Sanitary Authority, a body which has done a great deal to make Bristol one of the healthiest cities in the United Kingdom, Mr Low relinquished the chairmanship in order to accept the distinguished position of chairman of the Bristol Docks Committee. He held the latter appointment for ten years, and while he remained in office some undertakings of great moment to the port were discussed. One project was to provide coal shipping facilities at Bristol and extend the railways round the quays. Like some other dock schemes, this was debated at length in the Council, and after some delay certain railway facilities are being provided. When the scheme for promoting a new dock at Avonmouth was brought forward in 1892, Mr Low being chairman and Mr Charles Wills vice-chairman of the committee, the public looked forward to a speedy enlargement of the dock property. The scheme passed through the ordeal of a poll of the citizens, and went a certain distance on its parliamentary career, but had an unexpected ending. Just before a meeting of the Council plans were forwarded from the Great Western Railway Company referring to terms which had been presumed to be settled. the plans bore words intimating that terms were left to be arranged. This intimation was interpreted to mean that the matter had really to be argued over again, and Alderman Low, as chairman of the committee, withdrew the bill. Since then nothing has practically been done in the direction of enlarging the dock estate. Alderman Proctor Baker moved a resolution, which was adopted, for the committee to bring up a well digested scheme. Alderman Low afterwards resigned the chairmanship of the Docks Committee, and Alderman Proctor Baker, who had been abroad several months, succeeded him. Some time ago, when feeling was displayed as to the attitude of the committee towards the timber trade in respect to charges for labour and handling wood goods, Alderman Low, who still remained a member of the committee, entered a vigorous protest against the new policy, and announced that he would leave the committee. Subsequently, however, he returned to the duties in which he had been usefully engaged. Other posts held by Alderman Low in the Council at the time of his death were the chairmanship of the Docks Finance Sub- Committee, and he served on the Dockisation Committee, which is an enlargement of the Docks Committee. He was also a member of the Loans Committee, and chairman of the committee of visitors at the Borough Lunatic Asylum. In 1887 he was appointed a justice of the peace for Bristol, and in the same year became president of the Grateful Society, his collection amounting to £9000. His knowledge of commercial affairs and his grasp of trade matters rendered him a valuable member of the council of the Chamber of Commerce and Shipping, and in 1865 he was chairman. He had been twice president of the Harbours, Docks, and Piers Association of the United Kingdom. He was president of the Timber Federation last year (the second time he had held that position), and was the first president and founder of the Bristol Channel Timber Importers' Association. So recently as the 27th February he attended the annual banquet of that association at Cardiff, and made a vigorous speech in proposing "The Trade and Commerce of Cardiff". He was a director of the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company, Limited, and chairman of the Bristol and Clifton Building Society. Alderman Low was one of the earliest enrolled members of the 1st Gloucestershire (City of Bristol) Rifle Volunteer Corps at its inauguration in 1859, and for many years held the captaincy of No. 2 company. He passed through every grade to that of captain, being senior of his rank at the date of his retirement. His term of office as alderman of the city would have expired in 1904.
At the end of the service at the Mayor's Chapel, yesterday morning, the Mayor's Chaplain, the Rev. J. H. Bright, announced with regret that Alderman Low had died that morning. the Dead March in "Saul" was played by the organist.
04/05/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Wilberforce Tribe
DEATH OF MR WILBERFORCE TRIBE
It is with regret we have to announce the decease of Mr Wilberforce Tribe, senior partner in the firm of Messrs Tribe, Clarke, and Co., chartered accountants, of Albion Chambers, whose death took place suddenly at his residence, 7, Westfield Park, yesterday morning. The deceased gentleman, who was about 78 years of age, was at business on Wednesday, apparently in his usual health. He went out in the evening, and returning home, retired to rest. In the morning when he called he was found to be in a very exhausted condition, and death occurred shortly after. He had enjoyed fairly good health all the winter, and spent Easter at Llandrindod Wells, and his death under such conditions proved a great shock to his family and a large circle of friends. The deceased gentleman took a deep interest in religious and philanthropic work, and was one of the first members of the Redland Park Congregational Church on its foundation some 40 years ago. He was appointed a deacon from the opening of the church, and held that position until a few years ago, when he was appointed honorary deacon. He for a long period also held the position of secretary to the church, and for many years acted as treasurer. He was one of the earliest members of the Young Men's Christian Association; and for a long time represented Redland Park Church at the institution in St. James's Square. In politics the late Mr Tribe was a Liberal, and a member of the Liberal Club, and at one time was a treasurer of the Westbury Ward Liberal Association, but had not for some years taken an active part in political work. He took a keen interest in chess, and was a member of the Bristol and Clifton Chess Club. He was also very fond of cricket, and was often to be seen on the Downs watching the players. He was a magistrate for the city of Bristol, and took a deep interest in magisterial work. The deceased gentleman also for many years held the post of city auditor. At the time of his death he was a director of the Bristol and West of England Building Society, and of the Western Wagon and Property Company. He leaves a widow and five sons and three daughters. The eldest son, Mr W. N. Tribe, is connected with a firm of stockbrokers in this city, and the others are Mr Frank N. Tribe, Mr A. N. Tribe, and Mr Ernest N. Tribe, who are connected with the firm of which their father was the chief partner, and the Rev. O. N. Tribe, B.A. Miss Ethel Tribe is a medical missionary in China for the London Missionary Society.
Speaking at the Totterdown Y.M.C.A. last night, Mr S. D. Wills spoke feelingly of Mr Wilberforce Tribe, whose friendship he had enjoyed for 45 or 50 years. Mr Tribe was one of the most unselfish men he ever knew, one of the most modest men, one of the most generous, and his left hand did not know what his right hand did. He was one of the earliest members of the Y.M.C.A., in Bristol, and for many years represented Redland Park Church at the Y.M.C.A. He was one of the first members of Redland Park Church, and what he had been to that church, and especially to their beloved minister, no one could tell. Then think of Mr Tribe's sons and daughters - such a consecrated family was almost unique. One daughter, of brilliant ability, an M.D. of London, was a medical missionary in China, having gone there at the expense of the family. Mr Ernest Tribe was evangelising in the Shaftesbury district, and so he could not go. Bristol, and Redland Park Church, and all of them were the poorer because their friend Wilberforce Tribe had done his work and was taken home.
23/03/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Sholto Vere Hare
DEATH OF MR SHOLTO VERE HARE
The announcement of the death of Mr Sholto Vere Hare will be received with sincere regret by a very large number of citizens. To the present generation his name conveyed little beyond the fact that he at one time was a parliamentary candidate for Bristol, but older folk whose recollections go further back will remember him both as a citizen whose public spirit and personal qualities brought him into prominence in municipal and political life, and a man who for kindliness of disposition had few equals. There was a time when he was fore most in many movements and when no Bristolian was better known to both "the classes and the masses", but with advancing years public duties were naturally placed on one side for the enjoyment of that rest which a busy life had earned, and thus it is that Mr Hare years ago ceased to be the conspicuous figure in local affairs that once he was. His life was a long one: his eighty years embraced, perhaps, the most momentous period of Bristol's history, saw a marvellous transformation in its appearance and conditions of life, witnessed the lethargy of its leaders in taking advantage of the golden opportunities for extended commerce and shipping which again and again offered themselves, but afforded evidence that even these failures to utilise its natural advantages could not prevent the development with which now-a-day all are familiar. Mr Sholto Hare was associated with one of the leading industries in Bristol - the great oil, colour and floorcloth business of Messrs John Hare and Co. He entered the firm in 1840, and continued his connection with it until 1866. During this period he became a subscribing member to the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, and at a later period - in 1882 - when his nephew, Mr Chas. Felce Hare, became president of that important organisation, Mr Sholto Hare evinced a renewed interest in its proceedings. He entered the Council as an alderman while still engaged in active business life. His appointment was as long ago as 1856, and continued for the remarkable period of thirty-four years. His personal qualities won him a wide circle of friends, and the opinions of his fellow-members upon his fitness to preside over the deliberations, and to act as chief magistrate of the city, led them in November, 1862, to elect him as Mayor in succession to his brother, Mr John Hare, one of the members for Redcliff. During Mr Sholto Hare's Mayoralty Bristol celebrated on a lavish scale the marriage of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and in addition to the volunteer review, the processioning, the great gathering of school children, and provision of dinners for 10,000 poor people, and the illumination and decoration of the streets, Bristol marked the occasion by presenting to the Princess of Wales a magnificent sapphire pendant set in diamonds and placed in a carved casket of oak taken from Redcliff Church. Speaking of this casket, the London 'Times' observed that "as a work of art it was as noteworthy and quite as beautiful an offering as the jewel itself". In all these celebrations Mr Sholto Hare, as chief magistrate had much to do, and his wife (a daughter of Mr Clarke, of Trowbridge) ably assisted him in this public work. the gift to the Princess was made in the name of the ladies of Bristol by Mrs Hare, who was introduced to her Royal Highness by the Duchess of Beaufort. Another event of interest and importance during his mayoralty was the cutting by him of the first sod of the Port and Pier Railway. The undertaking thus started he had the satisfaction of opening it.
The reference to the venerable church of St. Mary, Redcliff, recalls the fact that Mr Sholto Hare was for many years officially identified with that building as its churchwarden. The association of the poet Chatterton with the sacred edifice excited his deep interest, and to him the city is indebted for placing Redcliff Churchyard the only statue which Bristol has of that remarkable but sad life. Chatterton has been a theme of much controversy, and even his monument did not escape a challenge. the vicar of that day, Parson Whish as he was popularly called, caused the statue to be removed from the position where it was first placed, and after disappearing from public-view for some years it was in 1857, as Mr John Latimer points out in his Bristol Annals "re-erected on the (unconsecrated) spot where it now stands, a few members of the parochial vestry having defrayed the cost of the restoration". Mr Hare's year of chief magistracy began a long connection with the Bristol bench, and membership of the Society of Merchants resulted in due time in his being elected as master of that ancient society. Mr Hare was one of the most valued members of the Conservative party, and was often among the speakers at the Dolphin Dinner, the presidency of which he held in 1871. He was a popular president, and the collection which appears against his name, £948, was with one exception (Mr Charles Nash's £1,012 in 1869) the largest amount raised at one of the anniversaries of the society. He also was president of the Parent Society. 1871 also saw him a member of the first Bristol School Board elected in that year. In its work he was associated with Mr Lewis Fry (chairman), Mr Mark Whitwill, Mr Proctor Baker, the Rev. Dr Caldicott, the Rev. Dr Gotch, the Rev. Dr Percival, the Rev. Dr Waddy, Mr Herbert Thomas, Mr James Ford, and others. The recently passed Education Act gave rise to the keenest controversy. The pioneer work of the first board was not free from difficulties, and although Mr Hare's position at the head of the poll showed how popular he was with the electors, he left the board at the end of three years.
The Conservative party looked to him to fight their parliamentary battles, and the task was one calculated to absorb the energies of any man. Bristol was then an undivided constituency, and again and again evidence was afforded at the polls of the fact that Liberal feeling predominated in it. Mr Hare made his first appeal to the electorate in 1870. The veteran Mr Henry Berkeley, after holding a seat in no fewer than eight Parliaments, died on March 10th, and the vacancy brought forward a perplexing abundance of candidates. Mr Kirkman D. Hodgson was the official Liberal nominee, Mr E. S. Robinson had a large number of supporters, and Mr Odger, a labour candidate, all entered the field; and with the prospect of finding their opponents divided into three camps, it was not surprising that the Conservatives were anxious to seize an opportunity not likely to often present itself. But the Liberals settled their differences - at least in part - by a test ballot; the two lowest candidates on the list, Mr Hodgson and Mr Odger, dropped out as a result, and Mr Sholto Hare, the Conservative Champion, found himself confronted by one foe instead of three. The test ballot had not served to wholly unite the Liberals, but it undoubtedly saved them defeat, and Mr E. S. Robinson received 7,882 votes against 7,062 given for his opponent. The matter, however, did not end there. An election petition was presented against the newly-elected member on the ground that between £8 and £10 had been spent in treating electors by two agents not in the contest proper but in the test ballot. The point raised was a novel one, and eventually it ended in Mr Robinson being unseated, although it need hardly be said there was no suggestion that he was a party to the illegality which cost him his set. Mr Justice Bramwell, who tried the case, made a sympathetic reference to Mr Robinson on the peculiar circumstances that terminated his brief stay in the House of Commons. The Liberal Association again selected Mr Hodgson, and Mr Sholto Hare tried once more the fortune of electoral strife, but again was unsuccessful, the votes recorded being 7,816 for Mr Hodgson and 7,238 for Mr Hare.
Both these contests with which Mr Hare had been engaged were under the old order of things, for the ballot, pressed for by Mr Henry Berkeley and foreshadowed in the informal test election already alluded to, was still to become the law of the land. Few elections passed in those days without scenes of rowdyism, and even of actual violence; the nomination on the hustings was accompanied by disorder akin to that in pandemonium; the conflicts of feeling resulting from the system of open voting were neither conducive to public peace nor gave the continuance of personal friendships, and gave election day a character which it has lost altogether, or to a very large degree, since the introduction of the ballot. Mr Sholto Hare's career as a parliamentary candidate is interesting, because he shared in the last Bristol election under the old order, and also the first under the new. The latter was at the general election of 1874. Mr Hodgson had as a colleague Mr Samuel Morley, who had already for some time been one of the members for Bristol; the second candidate chosen by the Conservatives was Mr Chambers; the contest was a hard fought one, the Conservatives were most hopeful, and Mr Hare was nearer success than ever before, but was still outside Parliament. The figures were as follows:- Mr Hodgson, 8888; Mr S. Morley, 8732; Mr Sholto Hare, 8552; and Mr Chambers,7626. After this Mr Hare left his party to another champion, and Sir Ivor Guest, with equal gallantry tried in subsequent elections to wrest the seat from the Liberals, but in vain. In his electioneering campaigns Mr Sholto Hare was often accompanied by his wife; she won great popularity, both by her spirit and her amiability, and good feeling towards her took the practical form of a gift of jewellery.
Mr Hare was a man of cultivated and varied tastes. Antiquarian research had a charm for him, he was a collector of coins and of china, and was often seen at the Madrigal concerts. He was enthusiastic as a Volunteer. his corps was the Bristol Artillery, of one of the batteries of which he was captain. For some time Mr Hare resided at Stoke Bishop, but from there moved to the beautifully-situated residence in Knowle Park. He allowed numerous public functions to take place in the grounds during his stay there, and both he and his wife, at Almondsbury, by their hospitality and geniality, made many fresh friends in that district. Upon the death of Mrs Hare, Mr Hare erected as a memorial to her a handsome building at Almondsbury, for use as a club and convalescent home for the villagers. This he maintained for a good while at considerable expense to himself, and when Bristol determined that a convalescent home should be its memorial of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Mr Hare generously offered this building as a gift to the city. There was a difficulty as to its acceptance, because it was felt that such an institution should be either in or close to Bristol, but the spontaneity of the offer elicited hearty acknowledgment. Mr Hare subsequently married Miss Adams, a Pembrokeshire lady, who survives him. He removed from Almondsbury to Clifton, and enjoyed fairly good health until the last few weeks, and, then although confined to the house, was not compelled to take to his bed until Wednesday. He was attended by Dr Blagg, but early yesterday morning failure of the heart ended a long and honourable life.
27/06/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Horatio Dunn
DEATH OF MR HORATIO DUNN
We regret to announce the death of Mr Horatio Dunn, of Fairfield House, Bedminster. Mr Dunn was in his 95th year, and was in fairly good health until about six weeks ago. Notwithstanding his great age he followed the events of the day with a keen interest, and discussed with his friends the prospects of the campaign in South Africa with a critical intelligence which showed that he retained all the mental energy which distinguished him during his life. In some respects Mr Dunn occupied a unique position. He was originally associated with George and Robert Stephenson, the engineers of the first passenger railway in the world - the Stockton and Darlington - and the Liverpool, Manchester, and other lines constructed in the early days of railway enterprise. He afterwards became associated with Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the first engineer of the Great Western Railway. This railway originated at a meeting in Mr Tothill's office on the Welsh Back, and when the first section - Bristol to Bath - was decided upon Mr Dunn was appointed to superintend the taking of the traffic on the Bath Road, with a view to convince possible shareholders that the projected line would be a paying concern. He recently stated that if there had been no more traffic, than was found on the road on the day the statistics were taken a single train a day would have sufficed to carry it all. Mr Dunn was thus connected with the 'Great Western Company' before the line was made. On the day that the first locomotive was run from Bath to Bristol, Mr Dunn walked along the line from Bristol to Bath to make sure that the line was clear. Mr Dunn's memory, however, carried him far beyond the beginning of the Great Western system. He was three years of age when the water was first let into the New Cut in 1809, and had a vivid recollection of the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo. He also remembered the tremendous storm in December, 1814. Mr Dunn's close identification with the Great Western Railway Company brought him into contact with all the leading men connected with the line, and he reckoned among his personal friends Mr I. K. Brunel, Sir Daniel Gooch, Mr Grierson, Mr Charles Saunders, Mr Frederick Saunders, Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Mr Owen (the second engineer of the line), Mr Armstrong (the late superintendent of the Swindon Works), and Mr Dean (the present superintendent). He was the last link connecting the present day with the opening of the Great Western Railway to Bath. He was under Brunel where the three Bristol tunnels were constructed, and it was at his suggestion that the two boulder stones, commonly known as the 'apple and pear', were placed on pedestals outside one of the tunnels. These stones fell from the roof of one of the tunnels, and are now fixed at each end of St. Anne's platform. At one time, when the railways were not permitted to burn coal in the locomotives, Mr Dunn had charge of the coke ovens near Bristol, and afterwards he became the store superintendent at Swindon - a position which he filled until 1892, when he retired. Mr Dunn was a native of Wivelfscombe, and a brother of the late Mr Alfred Dunn, of Bristol, and of Mr William Dunn, J.P., of Exeter. He lived to see a complete revolution in railway plant both as regards the permanent way and the rolling stock, and it was remarkable that he was able to read without spectacles the account of the accident at Slough station only a few days ago. In talking of old times, Mr Dunn stated that he knew a man who had talked with a man who had fought in the Monmouth rebellion, which collapsed at Sedgmoor in 1685. Along the Great Western line Mr Dunn was well known and highly respected by all grades of the employees, and to the last he took a deep interest in the affairs of the Great Western Company. He grew up with the railway system, and was one of the pioneers whose force of character, foresight, and energy helped to establish the system of steam locomotion, which has done so much for the world's progress. Personally Mr Dunn was admired for his urbanity, and had many intimate friends in this district, among them being the late Sir Joseph Weston. His recent bereavements were known to have affected his health. Within a comparatively short period he had to lament the loss of his son Arthur, whose career as a curate was full of promise, and later of his wife and also his elder daughter, Mrs Astapoff. The announcement of Mr Dunn's death, which occurred yesterday morning, will be received by all his friends with sincere regret.
17/09/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Daniel Travers Burges
DEATH OF THE TOWN CLERK OF BRISTOL
It is with deep regret that we have to announce the death, on Saturday morning, of Mr Daniel Travers Burges, who for a period of 18 years was Town Clerk of Bristol. The sad event occurred at the residence of the deceased, 12, Vyvyan Terrace, Clifton Park, after an illness extending over two years. He had for some time been suffering from an internal complaint, and afterwards had a paralytic stroke, which affected his left side. The Council, when his illness assumed a grave character, granted him six months' leave of absence. He was then, with his family, residing in Elmdale Road, near Tyndall's Park, but soon after removed to Vyvyan Terrace. Finding that his illness continued the Council extended his leave of absence to eight and subsequently to twelve months. As he was then found unable to resume his duties, Mr E. J. Taylor, who had held an important position in the Town Clerk's Office, was appointed Deputy Town Clerk, and still acts in that capacity.
Mr Burges, who was born in 1839, was a member of an old Bristol family, and may be said to have had had an hereditary position, since his father and grandfather both in turn held the appointment of Town Clerk. The grandfather was elected in 1836, resigning his position in 1849, although his death did not occur till April, 1864. He sat for some years as a magistrate at the Council House, and took considerable interest in the affairs of Clifton, attending the vestry meetings, where his speeches invariably received attention, as they were to the point, and couched in temperate language. Elder Bristolians may recollect him, and his exceedingly courteous demeanour. His son for a long time signed his name as Daniel Burges, jun., and he was appointed Town Clerk after the resignation of his father. Educated in Bristol Grammar School, he left that institution in 1827, and went as clerk to his father, who was at that time one of the solicitors to the Corporation, and continued in that capacity until the passing of the Municipal Reform Act. Immediately after the passing of that Act new arrangements had to be made in the various departments of the Corporation, and one of these was the appointment of Mr Burges to the office of Town Clerk in succession to Serjeant Ludlow. In consequence of this Mr Daniel Burges and Mr William Brice became joint clerks to the magistrates, and that appointment they continued to hold down to May, 1849, when Mr Burges resigned his office as Town Clerk, and Mr Burges, jun., was appointed his successor, Mr Brice becoming sole clerk to the magistrates, but both he and Mr Burges, jun., continuing as joint solicitors to the Corporation. It is not too much to say of Mr Daniel Burges, jun., that he discharged the difficult and often delicate duties of his office with great skill, and a conscientious regard for the interests of the city with which he had been so long closely associated. His extensive knowledge of civic affairs, coupled with his urbanity towards all who were brought into contact with him, eminently fitted him for the office which he had so worthily filled for a quarter of a century. He died suddenly at his residence in Canynge Road, Clifton, in his sixty-fifth year. For four or five years he had suffered from palpitation of the heart and in consequence had been warned by his medical advisors to refrain from over-exertion or excitement. The late Mr Christopher J. Thomas, who was Mayor, paid a fitting tribute at the police court to the unswerving integrity and fidelity to his duties of Mr Daniel Burges, and at a meeting of the Bristol City and County Club, held at the Commercial Rooms, the late Mr Robert Lang expressed the general feeling of the members at the mournful event. No inquest was held, as Dr Britton certified the immediate cause of death to have been heart disease.
A special meeting of the Municipal Council was convened for the purpose of electing a successor to Mr Burges; and the aldermen and councillors having passed in silence a long resolution recording the merits of the deceased, next adopted a report of the Finance Committee recommending the appointment of Mr William Brice. In the resolution submitted was the following: -
"That if the Council see fit to adopt this arrangement the committee will be prepared at an early period to submit them suggestions for the future conduct of the business of the Town Clerk's office." This intimation had reference specially to Mr Daniel Travers Burges, the deceased having left a widow and eight children, of whom Mr Travers Burges was one. He was at the time of his father's death practising as solicitor in London, the work of the Bristol Corporation had become onerous, so that it was suggested he should become assistant to Mr Brice, with a view to being appointed Town Clerk when the latter resigned. The arrangement was found to work well, since Mr Travers Burges from his legal training proved able to grasp the business of the Council, and Mr Brice taking a strong interest in the young man on account of the friendship he had for his father, the assistant clerk speedily became competent to conduct the affairs of the Corporation.
In 1880 Mr Brice resigned, and soon afterwards was appointed a magistrate for the county of Gloucester, sitting at Lawford's Gate. Mr Travers Burges was unanimously chosen Town Clerk, and it is not too much to say that since his appointment he discharged his duties with efficiency. The work of the city increased greatly after his succession to the office, for besides the ordinary business much labour was involved in respect to the competition between port and rival docks at the mouth of the Avon before the latter were acquired for the city. Hence great responsibility was thrust upon the Town Clerk, who, besides being appointed clerk to the Docks Committee, was afterwards chosen clerk to the Sanitary Committee. He was in addition clerk to the Cattle Market trustees. Mr Burges enjoyed the esteem of all the members of the legal profession in Bristol, and was on the governing body of the Incorporated Law Society. He was married to Miss Travers, and leaves a widow, three sons (who are now at the front), and two daughters.
08/10/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Butler
DEATH OF MR WILLIAM BUTLER
Mr William Butler, for some time has been lying seriously ill at his residence, Clifton Grove, passed peacefully away on Saturday evening. He lived to the venerable age of 81, and his career afforded a striking example of the energetic Englishman. He possessed great force of character, shrewdness, and large business capacity. He was also eminently a religious man, and assisted in many philanthropic movements. He established the important undertaking in the east part of the city which has for a long period been carried forward under the style of William Butler and Company, turpentine and resin importers, Silverthorne Lane, with works at Crew's Hole and at Upper Parting, Gloucester. He was greatly aided by his son, Mr William Henry Butler, who has for several years had the control of the business. When the Bristol Tramways Company was formed, Mr Butler assisted in the development of what has since proved a very extensive enterprise, and in his capacity as chairman of the board of directors proved a most competent head of the system which from its commencement had the advantage of so-competent a secretary as the present managing director, Mr George White. Partly through the influence which he obtained on account of his commercial association with St. George and partly on account of his individual energy, Mr Butler was early regarded as a leader in affairs in this extensive parish, and being a pronounced Liberal in politics, he, in company with the late Mr Handel Cossham and a few other gentlemen of advanced views, was enabled to render considerable assistance to the party in West Gloucestershire, and later in Bristol East when the parliamentary representation of the city was altered, and this part of the county included one of the four divisions. Prior to the extension of the city boundaries, Mr Butler for several years acted as chairman of St. George Highway Board, and so valuable were his services deemed that he was requested to sit for his portrait, which was presented to him and remained in the board room. The recipient, gratified at this acknowledgment of the labour of love which he had undertaken for the good of a parish in which he was so deeply interested, invited the subscribers to a banquet at the Montague Hotel, Kingsdown. From 1887 to 1890 Mr Butler sat in the Bristol City Council as a representative of St. Philip South, having defeated Mr George Belsten, the Labour candidate. The claims of his business and demands made upon him in respect to different religious and social matters in which he was warmly interested, prevented him seeking re-election as a councillor. He was a magistrate of the Lawford's Gate division. Perhaps no portion of his long and useful life afforded him more gratification than that devoted to religious objects. He was a member of the United Methodist Free Church, and not only gave largely to the funds of the local chapels, being especially interested in the cause at Redland Grove, but had represented Bristol at the annual assemblies of the denomination. He leaves several children, his eldest son, Mr W. H. Butler, being a magistrate for the Lawford's Gate division, representing St. George ward in the City Council since 1897, and acting as chairman of Bristol East Liberal Association, thus following closely in the steps of the deceased gentleman.
20/10/1900
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. H. Budgett
DEATH OF MR W. H. BUDGETT, J.P.
The news of the death of Mr W. H. Budgett, J.P., which took place yesterday afternoon at Portishead, will be received with deep regret in Bristol. As head of the firm of Messrs W. H. and S. Budgett and Co., Limited, the deceased gentleman was known far beyond the limits of Bristol, while in the city itself some fifty years of philanthropic work have brought him into contact with hundreds of Bristolians to whom his death will appeal most deeply. Mr Budgett has been in ill-health for a long time. So far back as Christmas his condition was regarded as somewhat critical, the trouble being a weak heart, but he recovered somewhat and a little while ago went to Portishead. Though the warm weather was much appreciated by him the change proved scarcely beneficial, and during the last week or two a decline set in, with the sad result that Mr Budgett passed away, as stated above, yesterday afternoon. Mr W. H. Budgett was the son of Mr Samuel Budgett, whose career has become well known through the publication of "The Successful Merchant", the work of the Rev. W. Arthur. "The Successful Merchant" lived and carried on business at Kingswood, and while the private residence is still in existence, the business portion was destroyed by fire shortly after the present extensive premises were requisitioned. Several objects connected with the private life of the late Mr Samuel Budgett were shown during the visit of the Grocers' Federation to Bristol in July, including oil paintings of himself, his wife, and parents, while among the curiosities exhibited was a rare bank note issued by Jones, Brain, and Budgett of Kingswood Hill, probably between 1810 and 1820. This has been specially noticed by Mr C. H. Cave in his "History of Banking in Bristol". The document, however, which then excited the most curiosity was the manuscript copy of Samuel Budgett's instructions to travellers. This, as well as the diary of the last two years of his life, indicates the exceptional care and method which were always displayed by "the successful merchant". The twenty-four hours were duly apportioned, sleep claiming seven (from 10p.m. to 5a.m.), while the record of events also deals with the time spent in the library and the books read. Some of the old invoices on exhibition were likewise of extreme interest, showing, for example, the extraordinary level of prices ruling in the early years of the century. These relics are greatly treasured by the members of the family.
After the death of Mr Samuel Budgett the business was managed by the three sons, James, William Henry, and Samuel. The eldest, James, started a branch in London, which subsequently carried on under the name of Messrs James Budgett and Son, Limited, and has grown into a large and important business. He is now living at Stoke Park, Guildford, Surrey. Mr Samuel Budgett, the third son, is also living retired, at Beckingham, Kent. During the time of Mr W. H. Budgett's connection with the business the premises in Bristol have been greatly extended. The old Bridewell was purchased in 1872, and the present commodious buildings now occupy a large site, extending from Rupert Street to Nelson Street, with a large frontage to the latter thoroughfare and Bridewell Street. About three years ago the business was converted into a limited liability company, of which Mr W. H. Budgett has been the chairman. Latterly, however, owing to indifferent health, he has been unable to take an active part in its management. Though a Liberal in politics, Mr Budgett did not identify himself with any political movements, neither did he occupy the position of a representative on the Town Council at any time. As a magistrate, however, he frequently sat on the bench at the Bristol petty sessions. At the first Bristol School Board election in 1871, Mr Budgett was returned fourth on the list, and in addition was re-elected in 1874 and 1877, and was a painstaking and business-like member. It is probable, however, that amongst the religious body with which he was connected, the Wesleyan Methodists, his loss will be most extensively felt. He was formerly identified with Trinity Wesleyan Chapel, White Ladies Road, and was circuit steward of Clifton with the late Mr Thomas Pethick, father of the present Alderman Pethick. He afterwards attended the Victoria Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, opposite the Victoria Rooms, and was for many years treasurer of the Bristol District Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society. He showed a keen and practical interest in nearly all the Wesleyan day schools in Bristol. For many years he was secretary of the North Street Schools, and up to the time of his death held that position with regard to the Hanham day schools. His practical sympathy was also shown in connection with the building of a great many chapels in and around Bristol. But it was not only towards his own denomination that Mr Budgett's generosity was bestowed. When living at Stoke House, those of other religious convictions were often entertained by the deceased gentleman. Many an enjoyable garden party was given in the grounds. His philanthropic work extended in many directions. Numerous charitable institutions have cause to remember Mr Budgett's practical help and generosity. For over thirty years he was closely associated with the Strangers' Friend Society, discharging with energy the secretarial duties connected therewith. He was a member of the committee of the Children's Hospital, and was chairman of the Executive Committee of the Formidable Training Ship. Mr Budgett was associated with the erection of the Colston Hall, and became a shareholder of the company. Though not so closely identified with the Y.M.C.A. movement as his brother, Mr Samuel Budgett, who was treasurer of the institution in St. James's Square for many years, Mr W. H. Budgett contributed liberally to its exchequer from time to time. He leaves a widow, four sons, and two daughters. Three of the sons, Mr W. Edward Budgett (who is a county councillor for the Westbury ward, and lives at Henbury), Mr James Herbert Budgett, and Mr Charles Budgett, have been actively associated with the business in Bridewell Street for some years. The fourth son, Mr J. S. Budgett, has achieved distinction at Cambridge University, and has taken part in natural history expeditions to Africa and South America. The deceased gentleman was as 72 years of age, and resided at No. 6, Litfield Place, Clifton.
19/01/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John McCurrich
THE LATE MR MCCURRICH
A very painful impression was created in the commercial circles of Bristol yesterday by the announcement of the death of Mr John M. McCurrich, the Chief Engineer at the Corporation Docks. The feeling of deep regret caused by the sad event was not unleavened by surprise, because some of the recent bulletins issued from the residence of the deceased in Clifton seemed to suggest more than the possibility of a successful rally from the malady which had begun to develop acute symptoms less than a more ago. But even the sound constitution of Mr McCurrich was unable to resist the inroads of the more or less complicated disease - which was not improbably aggravated by the abnormal humidity of the atmosphere - and the mournful climax of the struggle was reached yesterday morning. A valuable and purposeful life has thus been cut off at a period when the majority of robust men are generally considered to be at their best. For Mr McCurrich had reached an age no greater than that of forty-six years. With the grit and energy which mark the typical Scotchman, the deceased gentleman had but little difficulty, as a professional man, in impressing his personality on the public mind of his adopted city. He was born in a remote part of Perthshire, and his earlier predilections were for the work of the civil engineer. With the view to thoroughly equip him for the position at which he aimed, Mr McCurrich embarked on the recognised course of study; and on the conclusion of his terms at Edinburgh University he graduated as M.A. But the real and arduous work of his professional life had to be faced, and Mr McCurrich braced himself to the task with a cheeriness and determination which soon carried him to the front rank. He became attached to the staff of the Docks Engineer during Mr Girdlestone's time, in 1885; and that appointment, after a brief interval, transferred his activities from one side of the Bristol Channel to the other - from Cardiff to Bristol. For five years he was assistant engineer at Bristol, and when, in 1890, Mr Girdlestone resigned, Mr McCurrich assumed the onerous responsibilities of chief of the engineering staff. There were on the Docks Committee at that time certain members who advocated the course of going outside for a successor to Mr Girdlestone. But there were others who had more closely studied Mr McCurrich's character and methods, and who had had opportunities of forming a correct estimate of his abilities. In Mr McCurrich the latter perceived a man in every respect fitted for the vacant position - a man trustworthy, able, energetic, and resourceful. When Mr McCurrich's claims came to be subjected to serious analysis the ultimate decision was never in doubt, and he entered into the discharge of the full responsibilities of the office amidst a practically unanimous chorus of approval. There has never, during the past eight or nine years - years fraught with momentous issues in the development of the Bristol docks - been afforded the slightest cause for regret at the decision of 1890. Mr McCurrich buckled down to his work with an earnestness and determination beyond all praise. He enabled the local administrative body to solve many problems - amongst them the floods difficulty - of immense importance to the civic welfare, and he never begrudged a lavish expenditure of time on the elucidation of such knotty problems as his employers were from time to time compelled to submit to his ripe experience and sound judgement. Indeed, those who were privileged to enjoy the closer comradeship of Mr McCurrich do not hesitate to affirm that he allowed himself to become too deeply absorbed in his professional labours and their incidental anxieties. He was a master of mental concentration, and in the superintendence of the thousand and one details springing from the extensive and important works committed to his charge, he was the personification of industry and skilled activity. The pressure of his engagements, and the multiplication of his anxieties as each new crises in docks' affairs developed to the acute stage, are believed to have had at least an indirect influence on his otherwise robust health. But however that may be, Bristolians will to-day keenly realise that the city has lost a faithful and conscientious employee, and a man who had a bright and true conception of the essential duties of citizenship. But though placed in a position of high responsibility and considerable power, and, moreover, a man upon whom many distinctions had been bestowed, Mr McCurrich studiously refrained from any personal or ostentatious display. He steadfastly pursued the course which he mapped out for himself, and the twin virtues of urbanity and modesty, in conjunction with his other qualities, won him an enviable place in the affections of those thrown into business contact with him, as well as those who composed the circle of his immediate friends. The conscientiousness and ability which underlay the numerous reports and recommendations drawn up by the deceased Docks Engineer have been universally recognised. And at the present juncture, when the question of docks extension in Bristol is rapidly moving towards another crises, the lamented demise of Mr McCurrich will amount to something little short of a disaster. The enlarged Docks Committee was, of course, in close touch with Mr McCurrich's later views; and we have reason to believe that much has been done towards the formulation of the new eagerly expected report on the merits of the Avonmouth extension and dockisation; but none the less, the almost sudden withdrawal of Mr McCurrich's mature influence from these deliberations must necessarily exercise some effect on the general situation. It only remains to be added that Mr McCurrich, despite his retiring disposition, was a man of varied sympathies, and he unobtrusively identified himself with several deserving movements. He was a leading light in the Caledonian Society - now amalgamated with the Bristol Burns Club - and he took a prominent position in the Presbyterian body in the city. Mr McCurrich's unwearied and disinterested labours on behalf of what is really the Port's greatest interest will readily be acknowledged by the inhabitants of Great Bristol. With Mrs McCurrich and her young family there will be a deep and sincere sympathy in their sudden and sad bereavement.
20/09/1899
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Day Watts
DEATH OF MR W. D. WATTS
We regret to announce the death - which took place at one o'clock yesterday morning - of Mr William Day Watts, a member of the firm of Messrs Bramble, Watts, Grey, and Page, solicitors, of this city. Mr Watts had been in failing health for some considerable time, but so sudden a collapse was not anticipated until Sunday, the 10th inst., when the illness assumed an alarming stage, and he was practically unconscious from that time. Mr Watt's death removes from Bishopston one of its best-known and most respected residents. Almost from the day of his entry upon residence into that important suburb, Mr Watts had been more or less closely identified with its public life and development. The Horfield Local Board, the first of its kind in the Bristol district, was established in the year 1865. Three years later Mr Watts was elected a member, and at once became chairman of that body. With the thoroughness which characterised him in every department of his daily life, he threw himself unreservedly into the duties and heavy labours of his new office. During the seven years he presided over Horfield's representative body the parish made rapid strides, and came to be regarded as a healthy and popular residential district. The passing of the Public Health Act, 1875, which collated and enlarged the powers conferred on Local Boards of Health, engaged, during its passage through Parliament, Mr Watts's closest attention. Through the courtesy of Colonel Kingscote, then member for West Gloucester, he obtained an advance draft of the bill, and in the light of his experience as an administrator made a number of suggestions, every one of which was adopted by those responsible for the bill. More than one clause in the Act was accepted, and is engrafted in the precise terms which he had suggested. At the close of seven years' unremitting attention as chairman, Mr Watts sought rest and retired from the board, on which occasion he was presented by public subscription with the portraits (in oil) of himself and Mrs Watts. Though still prominent in all questions affecting the welfare of his fellow-parishioners, Mr Watts was not prevailed upon to again take office until the establishment of County and Urban District Councils, when, without opposition, he became the representative of the united parishes of Horfield, Filton, and Stoke Gifford at Gloucester. There his clear perception and sound judgment speedily marked him out as an able man amongst many such, and the County Council parted with him with no small regret when he had to vacate his seat consequent upon the absorption of Horfield by Bristol. As solicitor to the Horfield Urban District Council it became Mr Watts's official duty to oppose the absorption of the district into the city, but apart from this he personally would have done so from the conviction that all the benefit was on the side of the city. This opinion he held to the end. Mr Watts's death has also deprived the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows of one of its prominent and useful members. He was a member of the Widows' Hope Lodge, but his valuable services soon extended beyond his lodge, and were gladly accepted by the Bristol district and the Unity at large. He served the office of Grand Master of the district as far back as 1865, and was afterwards a frequent attendant at the A.M.C.'s of the Order, where his ability and the soundness of his views were speedily recognised. At the Chesterfield A.M.C. in 1870 he was elected secretary of the Relief Committee, and at the Exeter A.M.C. in 1878 he was honoured by being elected chairman of that committee, which office he again filled at Cardiff in 1882, Nottingham in 1883, Reading in 1884, and Aberystwyth in 1885. Owing to failing health, he had not been able in recent years to maintain the same active work for the Order, but his interest was unabated, and in his position as senior trustee for the district his valuable assistance and advice were always forthcoming at the meetings of the Management Committee. Deceased, who was 61 years of age, leaves a widow, one son, and three daughters, with whom much sympathy will be felt in their sad bereavement.
07/01/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Augustine Prichard
DEATH OF MR AUGUSTIN PRICHARD
We deeply regret to record the death of Mr Augustine Prichard, the eminent surgeon, which took place at his residence, 4, Chesterfield Place, Clifton, at midnight on Wednesday. Mr Prichard was a native of Bristol, the second son of the late Dr. James Cowles Prichard, the famous ethnologist. He was educated first at a school kept by a Mr Norton at the bottom of St. Michael's Hill, then at the old Bristol College, Park Row. Several of his brothers obtained scholarships and subsequent fellowships at Oxford, and he was sent for a scholarship at the University, but the whole bent of his mind was to medical and surgical studies and he remained in Bristol. In 1834 at the early age, as it would be thought now-a-days, of 16 he was apprenticed or five years to his uncle, Mr John Bishop Estlin, the founder of the Eye Dispensary, himself a surgeon of considerable note. The opportunities thus afforded him of studying the diseases of the eye led him to adopt the subject as his speciality, and he became one of the leading ophthalmic surgeons of his day, several important operations and details of treatment owing their origin to his skill and insight. After serving his five years' apprenticeship and pursuing his studies at the Bristol Medical School and Infirmary, Mr Prichard removed to London, to St. Bartholomew's Hospital, where he became a dresser to Sir William Lawrence, and he remained for a year, going aboard to Berlin and Vienna in 1841 and to Paris in 1842. At Berlin he took his Doctor of Medicine degree.
In October of the same year he returned to Bristol, and commenced practice at the Red Lodge, in Park Row, now the reformatory school for girls, and which had been his father's residence. He soon became connected with the Medical School, at which he was always a most successful and popular teacher, and in 1849 he was elected surgeon to the Infirmary. Here too his great skill in operating, and his clinical instruction, attracted a large number of students, who were eager to serve as his dressers, and there are many among the senior members of the profession in the city and neighbourhood, and indeed scattered throughout the whole country, who must recall with gratitude his well-directed, practical teaching. He was compelled by a regulation (now wisely abolished) of the Infirmary Committee to resign his appointment after twenty years' service, just when really he was in the full vigour of life and most serviceable to the institution.
After this event he was mostly occupied with a large private practice, very much of it being ophthalmic work; but besides this he was frequently called away to distant parts of the country for serious surgical operations. Nor was his private practice his only occupation, for he found time for considerable literary work and for scientific studies and attendances at the meetings of the local branch of the British Medical Association. He was an active member of the council of the branch and its president, and one of the founders of the Bristol Medico Chirurgical Society, of which he was one of the earliest presidents. At two of the annual meetings of the British Medical Association he was selected to read the address in surgery, an honour, we believe, which has been accorded no one else, and at the jubilee of the same society, when a meeting was held at Worcester, where it was originally founded, he was president of the surgical section. From its formation until he gave up practice Mr Prichard was surgeon at Clifton College, and there can be no doubt but that his connection with it and the confidences which he inspired helped to bring the school to its present flourishing condition. In 1893 Mr Prichard finally retired from practice, and his remaining years he spent in congenial pursuits, not losing sight of his interests in the Infirmary medical school and medical societies and other professional matters. He was a constant attendant at the meetings until during the last twelve months, his increasing deafness made him give them up. Next to his surgical work, painting was his chief delight, and he left a very large number of water-colour drawings, bits of the old city, many of them well executed. He was a frequent contributor to the medical journals, and published a two volume work entitled, "Ten Years Operative Surgery".
Within the two years he wrote an interesting and pleasantly written little volume probably known to many of our readers giving an account of some of his reminiscences.
On the Monday before Christmas he was taken ill with symptoms of intestinal obstruction, which necessitated a serious operation. But although attended with great temporary relief, his age and the severity of the attack made it hardly likely he would recover, and he sank from exhaustion. His unvarying kindness and skill, with no thought of personal trouble, and his genuine sympathy endeared him to a very large number of patients and friends, by whom his memory will be for ever cherished. Mr Prichard married, in 1845, Mary Sibellah, the daughter of the Rev. Thomas Ley, vicar of Rame in Devonshire. By her he has left a family of four sons and three daughters to mourn his loss.
11/03/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Muller
GEORGE MULLER
The busy, happy, and laborious life of George Muller was ended yesterday morning by a death which was one, as the Rev. Dr. Glover said at the Free Church Congress yesterday afternoon, all might envy, none might pity. Mr Muller had lived long, and his work in Bristol had been more or less familiar to every Bristolian. Indeed, there are very few living who can remember when the Orphan Houses were first established; the majority, including even those who have to call themselves elderly, have known the Orphan Houses all their lives, and from their earliest years they have heard with admiration, respect, and with something perhaps of wonder of the noble work and the simple religious faith of the founder of those great institutions. It is not easy to speak of Mr Muller and to observe that reticence upon sacred subjects which is seemly on the part of a secular journal. For Mr Muller had no history, no work that was not permeated by his religious faith. In another part of this newspaper the story of his marvellous life is told at some length. As a mere history it is remarkable and interesting. It is the story of a man "in travels oft, in labours more abundant", and the growth of the wonderful orphanage, the establishment of day schools, the foundation and growth of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, the oversight of mission stations, the missionary or, so to speak, apostolic journeys, for Mr Muller was in a very real sense a Bishop - all these varied activities and responsibilities form a record of a life of activity and devotion that has no modern parallel. Happily the Church - using the term in its broadest sense - has had many noble sons in recent years. No one who has read the stories of the lives of PATTISON and HANNINGTON, of MOFFATT and CHALMERS can have failed to be impressed by the high sense of duty, the sense of ease, the influence of belief on character that have been thus revealed.
In the presence of some great men the particular form of church government to which they were attached sinks into insignificance, and those who are most attached to their own convictions feel, that beyond the pale of their particular body there are men guided by an influence before which all men who think at all must bow in reverence. George Muller belonged to the small but wonderful class who compel a recognition of the limits of sectarian difference. Mr Muller was a member of one f the smaller of the many religious bodies in this country. His views on many points were not shared by the majority of those "who profess and call themselves Christians". But it is probable that many such when pained by what they may have considered the narrowness of view on the part of Mr Muller were overwhelmed and silenced by the thought of the man and his life-work. They were forced to realise that there was compatible with views they did not share a life of such a quality as to silence criticism, and a work that could not be spoken of in the terms whereby we appraise merely human success.
It is impossible, as we have said, to speak of George Muller, and to exclude all reference to the great principle that underlay all his work - no mere academic acknowledgment of the existence of "a force external to ourselves that makes for righteousness", but a simple belief and daily dependence upon Divine guidance and support. It took a form which we who have lived in Bristol have long associated with him. His Orphanage has been "a charity that never begs", and the way it has grown and been sustained, the number of times that help has come to it when it was most sorely needed, despite the refusal of Mr Muller to adopt methods which many excellent men in charge of philanthropic institutions feel perfectly justified in adopting - all these are matters in connection with his Orphanage that have not lost their wonder by familiarity. Mr Muller's personality, his work, his philosophy of life, have presented to the world an object lesson of which the most unsympathetic could not think without respect. Never was there a philanthropist with less of fanaticism and more of method. His bearing and his speech were not those of an emotional enthusiast who would incur heavy liabilities with a light heart; indeed had he been such a man his life would have been less surprising than it was; it was his calmness and confidence, associated with the most careful watchfulness over expenditure and most business-like habits, that presented a combination of qualities altogether unique and wholly surprising. And as to the work that he has done, there cannot be two opinions. No more necessary form of philanthropy, no more appealing more strongly to the right feeling, has ever been devised than one that takes care of children bereft of their natural guardians. In the long period of nearly seventy years that has elapsed since Mr Muller first commenced what came to be the chief work of his life, a vast army of children, a number equal to the population of a large city, must have passed under his care and that of the workers who have been associated with him. In all of these cases lives have been saved from destitution, in many cases from surroundings inimical to right training, and the boys and girls have been prepared for useful and honourable lives. There was no flattery in the resolution that was adopted at the Free Church Council yesterday declaring that "Mr Muller has left behind him a record of services to the orphan and destitute which will long remain an inspiration to the hope and effort of those whose hearts are touched by human necessity". His record of services has, indeed, already been such an inspiration. Orphanages were rare when Mr Muller's work was commenced; they are numerous now, and can it not be said that some, at least, of these owe their establishment to the existence and example of the great institution at Ashley Down? The sound of Mr Muller's work has gone out into all lands, and it is simply impossible to try to estimate the extent of the influence, directly and indirectly, which he has exerted in the course of his long life. And the Fellow-citizens of Mr Muller, with unanimity that will sweep away all distinction of creeds, can feel something of pride that such a life and such a work have been lived and carried on in this city, and that, of all places in the world, it has been Bristol that has seen every day the continuance of a career which has been watched from afar by all the world that cares for and respects practical philanthropy with perfect sincerity and noble simplicity of life. And the end has come without the sadness of farewell. Life continued in strength and vigour to the last hour before natural sleep. Yesterday, there was sent to this office a signature written by Mr Muller on the evening before his death. There was no weakness in it, no tremulousness of age, and it is pleasant - if such a word can be fitly used in such a connection - to think that life ended with Mr Muller so peacefully and painlessly, and that to him it was given to realise the lines, "Choose thine own time, Give little warning, Say not good night, but in some brighter clime, Bid me good morning" to life.
01/09/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Lane
THE LATE MR WILLIAM LANE
The death of Mr William Lane, which was announced in yesterday's Press, removes a gentleman who, though ill-health prevented him taking any active part in public affairs, was formerly prominent in business circles in Bristol as well as a leading member of the Docks Committee. He represented the ward of St. Michael in the Municipal Council for nine years, and gave much time and attention to matters affecting the port. When he came to Bristol, a mere lad, he had a clerkship in the office of Messrs Stoate and Hosegood, the latter being his uncle. He soon acquired business habits, and after filling some responsible positions became partner in the firm. He was associated with the Wesleyan body, and appointed a local preacher, being principally connected with Trinity Chapel, Redland. In connection with the denomination he did much useful work, and devoted himself largely to Sunday school teaching. Though a busy man as a corn merchant, Mr Lane was able to give attention to matters affecting the trade of the city generally. He was an active member of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce for eight years, being elected a member of the council at the monthly meeting of that body on the 15th of May, 1874. In 1881 he was elected a member of the Bristol Town Council, and at the November meeting of the chamber that year Mr Henry Taylor, on behalf of the council, expressed their pleasure at having amongst them another town councillor in the person of Mr William Lane, and they trusted that Mr Lane's election to that body would be the means of strengthening the hands of the chamber and furthering its objects. Mr Lane, in reply, said he was pleased to say that he was not the only member who had been bought into public life by the Bristol chamber, and that it was his intention to continue to devote as much of his time as formerly to the work of the chamber. It was, however, in December, 1881, that a letter was read from Mr William Lane stating that in consequence of his many civic engagements he was compelled to resign his seat of the council of the Chamber of Commerce. He was president of the Bristol Corn Trade Association, and in this capacity was able, from his grasp of business topics, making effective speeches, and the address which he used to deliver at the corn trade annual dinner [UNCLEAR]... listened to with the respect due to the [UNCLEAR] of an expert. He had for many years suffered from serious malady, for a time going abroad in the hope that change of scene might benefit him. He was, however, doomed to disappointment, and at length relinquished commercial transactions and went to reside at Fairholme, Eastfield Park, Weston-super-Mare. For upwards of a month he had been confined to his house where, although the utmost medical skill was available, he sank gradually, and expired on Tuesday by a coincidence upon his birthday, he being then 59 years of age. He leaves a widow and six children.
Our Weston correspondent writes:- Mr Lane had been in failing health for a year or more, but he only became seriously ill a few months ago. The deceased gentleman came to Weston about three years ago, and he and his family became members of the Church Road Wesleyan Chapel. During his connection therewith he took a deep interest in all matters affecting the welfare of the church and was a liberal supporter of all branches of the work. He was appointed a trustee, and he represented the church on the Weston-super-Mare Free Church Council. Mr Lane was likewise a local preacher, and manifested considerable interest in the George Street Mission Chapel, and frequently conducted the services there on Sunday evenings. He was a warm supporter of the Y.M.C.A., took a great interest in local affairs, and had been approached with a view to his becoming a candidate for a seat on the Urban District Council.
Yesterday, at Bristol police court, the Chairman (Mr Hosegood), said that before the commencement of the ordinary business of the court he should like to make allusion to a brother magistrate who had passed away on the previous day, Mr W. Lane. He was a great friend of his (the speaker's) and had been connected with him in business for 40 years. He was also known in the city as a very capable man of business. He gave a good deal of his time to city matters, being some years on the Town Council for St. Michael's; for some years a member of the Chamber of Commerce; and, he believed, once its president; and for some few years s magistrate on that bench. He was quite sure they all felt deep sympathy with the widow and children. Mr H. H. Gore, speaking on behalf of the solicitors, said he had had not only the privileged of being in the Town Council with Mr Lane for some years, but had often stood before him in that court room. He would therefore like to express the deep sense of regret the profession would feel at Mr Lane's untimely death. He had always treated them with courtesy, kindness, and patience.
13/05/1897
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Hodder
DEATH OF MR HENRY HODDER
It is with regret we have to announce the death of Mr Henry Hodder, which took place yesterday, after a long illness, at his residence Carlton House, Woodland Road, Tyndall's Park. For many years Mr Hodder was a well known figure in Broad Street, where for over forty years he had been associated with the chemist's and drug stores which bear his name. To him is due the establishment of the drug store system in Bristol, for he was the first chemist who commenced to sell at prices below those which had ruled so long in the trade. Mr Hodder was a keen man of business, with a distinct personality, and in the early years of his trading he succeeded in drawing attention to himself and his shop by the novel and peculiar style of his system of advertising. He was a good judge of pictures and china, of which he acquired a valuable collection. The late Mr Hodder was born January 9th, 1819, and shortly after leaving school he went on a voyage to the Isle of France and Calcutta. He returned in 1834, and was apprenticed to his brother, who carried on business in Love Street, Hotwells. Afterwards he became an assistant to Mr Capper, chemist, Corn Street, and in 1846 he commenced business for himself on St. Michael's Hill, but in 1853 he removed to Broad Street, disposing of his St. Michael's Hill business to Mr Maish. It was in Broad Street that the late Mr Hodder became the pioneer of the cash chemist or drug store system. It was only natural that an innovation of a character which threatened to seriously disturb the system upon which the chemist and druggist's business had been hitherto conducted, should meet with keen criticism, but Mr Hodder adhered to the system he had initiated,and he lived long enough to see it extended to nearly all parts of the kingdom. In 1887 his business was taken over by a company, which has proved very successful under the management of Mr E. Carpenter, who succeeded his father in the control of the concern. The directors of the company comprised the late Mr Hodder, Mr H. R. Wansbrough, Mr E. Carpenter (managing director), and Mr H. W. Carter (chairman). When the company was formed Mr Hodder dealt out liberal treatment to those who had been in his employ, and £5000 worth of shares - representing one-fifth of the capital - was allotted between fourteen and fifteen of his chief assistants on the condition that they remained seven years with the company. The deceased leaves a widow and several daughters, two sons by a former wife, one in Australia.
07/03/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr E. N. P. Moor
DEATH OF MR E. N. P. MOOR
Clifton College sustained a severe loss yesterday by the death, at the early age of forty-three, of Mr E. N. P. Moor, who had for more than twenty years been an assistant master, and since 1892 a House Master at the College. Mr Moor, who was a son of Rev. J. H. Moor, of Kingsbridge, Devonshire, was an old Cliftonian. He entered the school with a scholarship in May, 1867, and in September, 1868, attained the position of head of the school, holding this until, in October, 1870, he proceeded with a scholarship to Balliol College, Oxford. He was distinguished in athletics as well as scholarship at the college, and in 1869 and 1870 was a member of the school cricket eleven. At Oxford he distinguished himself by gaining a first class in classical Moderations and a second class Final Schools, and after taking his degree he was invited by the Rev. J. Percival to return to Clifton as assistant master. In the twenty years that have elapsed, Mr Moor has devoted all his energies to the promotion of the interests of the school. He was one of the secretaries of the Building Fund, and his continued interest in athletics was shown in his contribution of the historical chapter on sports to the Clifton College Register. As a form and house master, he has gained in a very notable degree the respect and affection of colleagues and pupils, and the news of his untimely death will create deep sorrow wherever old Cliftonians are to be found. For many years Mr Moor was engaged as a classical tutor to the sixth form, and he was largely responsible for the classical scholarships and honours gained by Cliftonians at the universities. Mr Moor was attacked with influenza soon after the commencement of the present term, and pneumonia developing, his condition had been critical for some weeks, death occurring yesterday morning. Mr Moor, who was a member of the National Liberal Club, and often attended the dinners of the Anchor Society, had little time for engagements unconnected with school work. But he took an active interest in the Clifton High School for Girls, of which he was one of the governing body. Mr Moor leaves a widow and two daughters.
09/06/1896
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Crisp
DEATH OF MR H. CRISP
The death of Mr Henry Crisp (of the firm of Messrs Crisp and Oatley) removes one who had long occupied an important professional position in this locality, and who had been architect of many undertakings of considerable magnitude in various parts of the land. The deceased gentleman was a son of the Rev. Thomas S. Crisp, a former president of the Baptist College, Stoke Croft. He was articled to the late Mr Thomas Foster, architect, in the year 1845, and commencing practice on the expiration of his articles, was very soon successful in many competitions. Pilning Church was built from his designs, and Stonehouse Church and that fine edifice, St. Cuthbert's, Wells, underwent alterations under his care. He subsequently entered into partnership with Mr E. W. Godwin, and together they carried out many important works, amongst others Glenbeigh Towers, an important residence in Ireland. In the competition for the Guildhall, Bristol, the firm submitted three designs, and were awarded all three premiums, first, second and third; neither plan, however, represented the Guildhall as we know it today, for after a great deal of controversy over the subject, the work passed into other hands. Amongst local matters in which Mr Crisp's firm was concerned were the considerable extension and new administration department at Bristol Lunatic Asylum, the nurses' home, and new wards at the General Hospital, police stations at Bedminster and Redland, and show rooms and factories of the Bristol Wagon Works. Many big business premises and vicarages have been erected from the deceased gentleman's designs, and the restoration of that well-known landmark, Dundry Church tower, was entrusted to him. In 1888 he took into partnership Mr G. H. Oatley, who had been associated with him since 1879, and in 1894, the firm, in conjunction with Mr W. S. Skinner, won an important competition for a lunatic asylum for 2000 patients at Winwick, in Lancashire, for which the estimated cost is over a quarter of a million. This work is still in progress. Mr Crisp was a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and was on the Council of the Institute. Until a month or two ago he was president of the Bristol Society of Architects, but owing to failing health he resigned that position. His strength gradually weakened, and very early yesterday morning, at the age of 70, he passed away. Personally he was a man of kindly disposition, who won much respect, and professionally was known not only for his architectural work, but for the accuracy of his estimates as to the probable cost of enterprises upon which he was called to give an opinion. His death took place at his residence, 26, West Park, Clifton.
20/02/1896
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Nichols
DEATH OF MR GEORGE NICHOLS
The announcement of the death of Mr George Nichols, which took place yesterday, occasioned both regret and surprise in Bristol. It was not generally known that he was critically ill, although for several months he had been missed from Broad Street, where his firm, Messrs George Nichols, Smith, and Alder, have their offices and saleroom, and from the business circles where his tall form was familiar, and his professional ability recognised by all. Early in life Mr Nichols entered upon the agricultural training which stood him in such good stead throughout an honoured career. He became a student at the Royal Agricultural College at Cirencester, securing his diploma in 1850, and later in life he entered upon farming upon a considerable scale. He was one of the oldest tenants of Sir Greville Smyth, having held a farm at Ashton under Sir Greville for many years. With a desire to further extend his agricultural experience the deceased gentleman, about 15 or 16 years ago, took a large farm in Wiltshire, and continued to successfully carry out the undertaking for ten years, releasing the farm a few years ago. As a valuer and authority upon agricultural matters his name stood high, and was known and respected throughout the West of England. His practical experience gave him exceptional fitness for dealing with much of the business which passed through his hands. He was not one who courted public life, and although on several occasions invited to become associated with public bodies in the city he never would consent to be nominated for public service. He, however, was connected with the Bath and West of England and Royal Shows, and when the exhibitions of these societies were held in Bristol on different occasions he was active in his efforts to secure the success of the exhibitions. In politics Mr Nichols was a Conservative, and was a member of the Dolphin Society committee, but he was not often seen in a prominent political position. He began business in Bristol as an auctioneer and valuer 30 years ago. About four years later Mr Alder became associated in the business, and 12 years ago was taken into partnership. During later years Mr George Nichols, jun., joined the firm, and still more recently Mr Moses Smith became a partner. Mr George Nichols, although having the assistance of experienced partners, remained something more than the figurehead of the concern, and until last autumn he was frequent in attendance at his office. An affection of the heart had troubled him for several years, and he had been lately ailing. He, however, felt well enough to leave his bedroom during the latter part of last week, but a relapse set in on Monday morning, and his illness proved fatal at half-past ten o'clock yesterday morning. Mr Nichols was 67 years of age. The funeral will take place at Long Ashton on Saturday afternoon at half-past three.
25/04/1898
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr Henry Marshall
DEATH OF DR MARSHALL
We regret to announce the death of Mr. Henry Marshall, who passed away early yesterday morning, at his residence, 28, Caledonia Place, Clifton. A short time ago he took cold, and afterwards influenza developed, followed by pneumonia, which proved fatal. The sad event was referred to at the Church of All Saints, Clifton where deceased for some years acted as sidesman, by the Rev. H. B. Bromby, vicar, and the announcement cast a gloom over the congregation. The Bishop of Bristol, preaching yesterday morning at St. Nicholas' Church, also referred to the death of Dr Marshall. The Dean, preaching at the Cathedral, last night, likewise adverted to the subject.
The father of the deceased was a clergyman of Bristol, very popular among the Evangelical party. He had originally been a Presbyterian, but afterwards entered the Church of England. Dr Marshall obtained the rudiments of his medical education at the Bristol Medical School, where he had the advantage of obtaining much valuable knowledge from Dr J. G. Swayne, the then lecturer. Afterwards he proceeded to Edinburgh University where he studied under Mr Syme, the celebrated surgeon, and no doubt the instruction he thus received led to his practising for a time in surgical cases. Sir James Simpson, who introduced the use of chloroform, was a lecturer at the University while young Marshall remained there. Ether had been first employed as an anaesthetic by a dentist in America, but the Scotch claim the discovery of chloroform. Dr Marshall obtained considerable repute at Edinburgh, and having become qualified as a physician and surgeon, he practised in the latter capacity in Bristol, where he was successful in obtaining an appointment at the General Hospital in competition with Mr Corbould. At an early period of his career he travelled in Russia, and was greatly interested in the manners and occupations of the inhabitants. Having been a surgeon in this city for ten or twelve years, he ceased his connection with the General Hospital, save that he was appointed consulting surgeon to the institution, and practised henceforth as a physician. He ranked highly in his profession, though on one occasion he became involved in litigation through having with Dr Shaw signed a certificate of lunacy against a lady who brought an action which was tried at Bristol assize before Mr Justice Fields. A verdict was returned in favour of both defendants, and so strongly were the sympathies of the medical profession aroused in their behalf that a subscription was set on foot through the United Kingdom to recoup those gentlemen for the heavy costs they had incurred.
To many persons, not merely in Bristol, but in the country at large, the career of Dr. Marshall will be of interest on account of the prominent position he held in connection with the English Church Union, as he was president of the local branch. For a long period he remained a consistent supporter of the services at St. Raphael, and engaged the warm friendship of the Rev. A. H. Ward, the vicar. When the church of All Saints was advocated in Pembroke Road, Dr Marshall took an active share in the movement. A new parish was carved out of St. John's, Redland, a large number of earnest men desiring a free and open church, the subject dear to their hearts having been discussed in the drawing-room of Mr Todd Walton, and it may be news to some that in August, 1864, the incumbency of All Saints' was offered to and accepted by the Rev. H. W. Sargent, incumbent of St. John the Baptist, Oxford. Ill health obliged him to resign the post, which was afterwards filled by the Rev. R. W. Randall, vicar of Lavington, Sussex. Throughout the many years of Mr Randall's incumbency, Dr Marshall was prominent among those who were officially connected with All Saints, among his colleagues being Dr J. G. Swayne, Messrs Todd Walton, W. Harrington Bush, W. Glennie Smith, Furster Alleyne, Meyrick Heath, and Lieut-Colonel Archer. At first he joined the choir, but not feeling satisfied with his vocal attainment, he ceased to be a member. Upon the preferment of the Rev. R. W. Randall to be Dean of Chichester it seemed appropriate that Dr Marshall should take a leading part in the farewell meeting, and at a gathering in All Saints' Hall, held on April 21st, 1891, he stated that he was present at the laying of the foundation-stone of the church and at the consecration, so as one of the few surviving members of the Building Committee there was some fitness in his speaking of the generous benefits they had received through their first vicar. At the time All Saints was opened there were but two churches in Bristol - St. John's, Bedminster, and St. Raphael's - at which full church privileges were to be had. From the beginning of the church to the close of 1890, as proof of the manner in which the Rev. R. W. Randall's services were appreciated, the free will offerings had amounted to a sum little short of £100,000. This showed how deeply his teaching had taken hold of the people. Socially Dr Marshall was much esteemed, and he was proud of the fact that he was a Scotchman his speeches when president of the local Caledonian Society and the Burns Clubs at their anniversary dinners being replete with laudation of Scotland and Scotchmen in admirably delivered addresses. He was active and generally enjoyed good health, so that the intelligence of his decease after a short illness came to the citizens with a feeling of painful surprise. He leaves a wife and children, his son cultivating a tea plantation in Ceylon. Sympathy with the bereaved family will be felt throughout the city generally. The Dean, in his sermon last night, said he could not trust himself to speak at length on the great loss which Bristol and Clifton had sustained through the death early that morning of Dr Marshall. He would, however, ask the congregation to remember in their prayers those whom he had left behind - his widow and children. It was hard to think that the ties which had been formed could no more be united on earth, and well might it be said with the poet Tennyson-
O for the touch of a vanished hand,
And the sound of a voice that is still.
Yet the thought that the death of a dear one was certainly the ushering in to renewed loves and revived friendships was a consolation, and the prayer of those who were left behind should be that their Christian life should not become listless and impracticable, but full of active work for the Master - which in some degree would prove an antidote to the tendency to morbidness felt after the loss of a dear one, and God himself would give tokens of His presence to those who persevered in work for Him. Canon Tetley also referred to Dr Marshall's death at the morning service in the Cathedral.
29/12/1896
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr George Frederick Schacht
THE LATE MR G. F. SCHACHT
The death of Mr George Frederick Schacht, which as already been announced in our obituary column, occurred very suddenly, and removed one who was very well known in Bristol and Clifton. Mr Schacht was a chemist who for a long while carried on business in Regent Street, Clifton, and took a prominent part in movements connected with the Pharmaceutical Society. For twenty-five years he was a member of its council, and on his retirement from that office last autumn he was presented with an address acknowledging the useful work done in connection with that organisation. The presentation was made by Mr Charles Townsend, and the opportunity was taken to bear testimony to the high esteem Mr Schacht had won in this district. He had been vice-chairman of the society, and also a member of the examining body, pharmaceutical education being a matter in which he evinced the keenest interest. The address, which was numerously signed, was in the following terms:- "We, the members and friends, whose names are attached hereto, beg your acceptance of this address on the occasion of your retirement from the Council of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain after an unbroken service of 25 years. We heartily congratulate you and ourselves on this long period of active work in the varied capacities of member of the Council, member of the board of examiners, and vice-president. We gratefully acknowledge the ability and energy with which you have increasingly served the best interests of pharmacy, as well as the zeal and perseverance which have always marked your efforts in the cause of pharmaceutical education. Moreover, we especially recognise the high personal qualities and hearty devotion which have always been at the command of our Bristol Association. Though your more public labours may now be ended, we rejoice to know that you will continue to dwell in our midst; and, assuring you of our sincere esteem and regard, we venture to hope that your sympathy and co-operation may still be accorded to us for many years to come." Fourteen years ago Mr Schacht's business was amalgamated with that of Mr Giles, and since that time Mr Schacht has not been personally concerned in the retail part of the undertaking, and has had more time to devote to other objects. One of these was the Bristol University College, of which he was hon. treasurer; at the recent annual meeting of the governors he spoke in terms of eulogy of the chemical work done at the institution, selecting this special mention because it was the department on which his life's work especially qualified him to pronounce an opinion. He appeared to be in his usual health on Christmas Day, but on Saturday morning did not make his appearance as usual, and was found sitting in his room death. His widow survives him. The death occurred at his residence, 1, Windsor Terrace, Clifton; Mr Schacht was 73 years of age, and his unexpected decease occasioned widespread regret. The funeral will take place on Wednesday afternoon at Portbury.
27/02/1896
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Henry Cowlin
DEATH OF MR W. H. COWLIN
We regret to announce the death of Mr W. H. Cowlin, one of the Councillors of St. Paul's Ward and the senior member of the well-known firm of builders in Stratton Street and Meadow Street. Mr Cowlin, not long after attaining his majority, had the responsibility of succeeding his respected father in the control of the business, but he was well qualified to do this, for he had exceptional technological knowledge of the various branches of the building trade. He had not merely the practical experience which a busy man would gain in the daily exercise of his vocation, but he had made a study of the theoretical principles underlying his trade, and at the Technology Classes of the Merchant Venturers' Technical College won distinctions proving how apt he was a student. His father's death occurred in the autumn of 1891, and since that period, with his two brothers, who were also associated with the firm, he has carried out many important building works. The restoration of the Mayor's Chapel was one undertaking which required very careful treatment, and more recently there was the renovation of the central tower of the Bristol Cathedral, the restoration of the beautiful Lady Chapel, and other work connected with the sacred edifice. In such matters as these Mr W. H. Cowlin won the esteem of those who came into contact with him. While the meeting of the National Benevolent Institution was being held yesterday afternoon under the presidency of the Mayor of Bristol, the Dean (Dr. Pigon) asked leave to mention the critical stage which Mr Cowlin's illness had then reached, remarking that in an assembly of Bristolians he was sure an interest would be felt in one so well known and respected as he was. At the Cathedral, added the Dean, Mr Cowlin was very much valued, and it was a matter for the deepest regret that so sad an illness had overtaken him. Mr Cowlin was a member of the committee of the Bristol Master Builders' Association, and was also connected with the national organisation, one of whose meetings he attended with Mr H. J. Spear, as lately as January 22nd. On that occasion Mr Cowlin spoke upon the Plumbers' Registration Bill, a subject in which he felt a deep interest and upon which several years ago he gave evidence he gave evidence before a Select Committee of the House of Commons. In politics he was an ardent Liberal. He was interested in Rugby football, and when married, only 18 months ago, the Bristol club made him a wedding present and joined heartily in the numerous good wishes then expressed for his future happiness. His connection with the Bristol Town Council dates from November last, and his last public duty was to attend the Council meeting on February 11th. He was then feeling unwell, and was obliged to leave the meeting before the agenda had been completed. As his illness progressed he was found to be suffering from typhoid fever, and upon this pneumonia supervened. Throughout yesterday it was known that his condition was well nigh hopeless and late in the evening came the tidings of his decease. Personally Mr Cowlin was of a kindly and genial disposition and although young in years (we believe he was about 28) he had in his brief career shown himself possessed of qualities which make his loss to the city a real one. He leaves a widow and an infant child, born a couple of months ago.
24/04/1896
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Joseph Tanner
DEATH OF MR JOSEPH TANNER
We regret to record the death of Mr Joseph Tanner, J.P., which occurred at nine o'clock yesterday morning at his residence, Madeley House, Pembroke Road, Clifton. Mr Tanner, who would have completed his 61st year next Monday, has been suffering for some months from an affection of the heart, which confined him to the house. A week ago his condition became critical, and he gradually lapsed into unconsciousness, never rallying again. Mr Tanner was best known as head of the firm of Butler and Tanner, of the Selwood Printing Works, Frome. It was in the year 1863 that he joined Mr Butler in the printing business with which he was for the rest of his life associated. At that time the firm only employed 30 workpeople. Gradually, owing in a great measure to the business acumen of Mr Tanner, the undertaking grew until it came to be regarded as the pioneer of book-printing works out of London. So largely has the establishment increased that 450 workpeople are now employed there. Mr Butler retired in 1870, and Mr Tanner conducted the business alone until twelve months ago, when the management was transferred to two of his sons, Mr R. R. Tanner and Mr L. Tanner. Both in Frome and in Bristol Mr Tanner was a well-known public man. In Frome he was chairman of the Local Board, chairman of the Technical Education Committee, a member of the Board of Guardians, and chairman of the Assessment Committee. He was also a justice of the peace for the county of Somerset. He was a Congregationalist, and was long connected with Zion Chapel, Frome, where he was a deacon, and secretary of the Sunday school, besides rendering valuable help in other departments of church work. In 1881 he was elected chairman of the Executive of the Wilts and Somerset Congregational Union, and he only retired from this position a short time ago. For several years he was a deacon at Highbury Chapel, Bristol, where he was also appointed superintendent of the Sunday school and secretary of the church meeting. On the death of Mr Josiah Williams he was elected treasurer of the church. He was a generous supporter of the London Missionary Society, of which he was a director. He was president of the Totterdown branch of the Young Men's Christian Association, and was associated with many other religious and philanthropic movements and institutions. In politics he was a Liberal up to the split in 1886, when he refrained from supporting Mr Gladstone's Home Rule policy. He leaves a widow, four sons, and two daughters. One of his sons, Mr Joseph R. Tanner, is a fellow and lecturer at St. John's College, Cambridge. Mr E. R. Tanner is a member of the firm of Pomeroy, Tanner, and Pomeroy, solicitors, of Bristol. The other two sons are connected with the Selwood printing works undertaking. Mr Tanner's brother is the English chaplain at Florence. The funeral is fixed for next Monday.
07/04/1917
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Ryan Bennett
DEATH OF MR J. R. BENNETT
We regret to announce the death, which took place yesterday, of Mr John Ryan Bennett, J.P., of 3, Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton, at the age of 70 years. He left his home in the morning to attend service at Highbury Chapel, as was his custom, and persons who saw him say he appeared in good health. He suddenly fell, however, when walking up Cotham Hill, and though assistance was speedily obtained, it proved unavailing. In the summer of 1911 Mr Bennett met with a serious accident in London, falling whilst stepping off a tram car and fracturing his skull. For many days his life was in considerable danger, and his health was affected for a long period, but of late he seemed to have gradually improved, though much of his old vigour was lacking.
Mr J. R. Bennett was very well known in Bristol, and as the head of various colliery concerns for many years he had a close connection with the commerce of the city. His association with colliery work arose from the fact that his father, Mr Henry Bennett, J.P., became the owner of the Dean Lane Pit, business being carried on under the title of the Bedminster Coal Company. Mr Henry Bennett made Bedminster his home, residing at Rock Cottage, a house standing in grounds fronting West Street, and he was prominent in the control of the little chapel standing not far away. In Bedminster Mr John Ryan Bennett was born, and as a boy he attended this place of worship. After being privately educated, in older years he was of great assistance to his father in the colliery work. Eventually he became the manager of the Dean Lane Pit. He was thoroughly conversant with work underground, and when accidents occurred he was always ready to lead in the work of rescue and investigation. His daring in his younger days was such that Mr Brough, who was then H.M. Mining Inspector for this area, once advised him, in the presence of the writer of this biographical notice, to take more care for his own safety.
Upon the death of his father, Mr John Ryan Bennett became head of the Bedminster Coal Company, and so continued until the exhaustion of the more accessible seams led to the pit being closed. The immense mound of shale which marked its many decades of activity was got rid of partly by being hauled elsewhere, and the site, which had reverted to Lady Smyth, was presented by her to the city as a play ground for children. Meanwhile Mr R. R. Bennett found a larger outlet for his energies. The death of Mr Handel Cossham left his collieries on the eastern side of Bristol in the hands of his trustees, and these gentlemen were agreeably surprised when a company, of which Mr J. R. Bennett was the head, purchased at a price which rendered the Cossham Memorial [unclear] a financially practicable scheme. The mining adventure proved a difficult task, and for a time the pits had to be closed, but eventually they were reopened by a new company, Mr Bennett and his brother (Mr A. H. Bennett) being associated with the undertaking. Mr Bennett possessed exceptional knowledge of coal mining in the Bristol district, and gave interesting evidence before the Royal Commission appointed some years ago to inquire into the probable duration of our coal supplies.
Mr Bennett became a member of the Council of the South Wales Institute of Engineers,and in 1891-92 held the office of President of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. As in so many other instances, this position proved an introduction to municipal service, and in 1892 he was returned as a member for Westbury Ward, and was placed upon the Docks and Museum Committees. He retained his position in the municipal body for several terms, and in 1894 was chosen as a justice of the peace. He also became one of the directors of the Bristol and South Wales Permanent Building Society. While still closely connected with the colliery industry at Bedminster, he identified himself with religious work at Zion Congregational Chapel, and afterwards, having joined the church at Highbury, was chosen as one of the deacons there. He interested himself in the operations of the Congregational Council, and was chosen as its treasurer. He Mr Bennett, who was married, leaves several sons and daughters. He was a man of genial disposition and had a large circle of friends.
14/09/1893
Western Daily Press
Obituary
General James Daubeny
DEATH OF GENERAL DAUBENY
It is with much regret that we have to record the death of General James Daubeny, C.B., which occurred at his residence, Tower House, Manilla Road, Clifton, yesterday morning somewhat suddenly from heart disease. The deceased officer, who was in his 67th year, had a distinguished career in the army. He joined in 1845, in his 18th year, and went through the Crimean War with the 62nd Foot, now known as the 1st Battalion of the Wiltshire Regiment. He was at the siege of Sebastopol, and in the course of the campaign gained very quick promotion. He commanded the regiment at the desperate attack on the Redan in June, and again at the second attack in September. He was slightly wounded during the campaign, and was on more than one occasion mentioned in despatches for personal bravery. For his services in the fighting around the Redan he received a medal and clasp, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. He also received the Turkish medal, and was further decorated with the order of the Medjidie, besides being made a knight of the French Legion of Honour. Subsequently he held a command in India. In 1881 he retired, however, the position of honorary colonel of the Yorkshire Light Infantry, of which regiment the 1st Battalion (formerly the 51st Foot) is stationed at Guernsey, and the 2nd Battalion (formerly the 105th Foot) is stationed at Bombay. On his retirement General Daubeny took up his residence in Clifton, where he lent his aid in the management of the Bristol Emigration Society and other benevolent societies. His principal public services, however, since his retirement, have been rendered in connection with the Barton Regis Board of Guardians, of which body he had been a member for nearly ten years.
06/02/1897
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Gibbons
DEATH OF MR WILLIAM GIBBONS
We regret to announce the death of Mr William Gibbons, which occurred yesterday morning at an early hour at his residence, Grafton Villa, Arley Hill. About three years ago Mr Gibbons had a serious illness, and although he managed to pull through, his heart became affected. Since then his health at times has been very precarious. He was taken ill last Wednesday, and in spite of medical aid expired as stated, the cause of death being heart disease. Mr Gibbons had been for many years a prominent member of the Wesleyan body in the city, and it was in connection with that society that he for many years laboured in the Baptist Mills Circuit Chapel. Some difficulties arising here, he subsequently devoted his untiring energy to the Brookland Church in Lower Ashley Road, and mainly by his endeavours this place of worship was raised, the funds being forthcoming in surprisingly quick fashion. He was also largely interested in the publication of a special book of Wesley's hymns, believing that such a work should always be procurable at little above cost price, but this hymnal subsequently fell into disuse through the compilation of another book from a different source. A great deal of his time was spent in the interest of the children, for whom he always showed a sympathetic thoughtfulness, and for a long time he had a large choir of young people whom he directed, and by means of the tonic sol-fa notation they were able to perform a number of the better-known oratorios at the Colston Hall, Mr Gibbons himself acting as the conductor of these enjoyable concerts. His interest, too, in Sunday School work was exceedingly keen, and whilst connected with Baptist Mills Sunday Schools the membership was exceptionally large as far as the circuit was concerned. The deceased gentleman, although formerly a Liberal, was of recent years a Unionist, and assisted the candidature of Mr Lewis Fry, M.P. in Bristol North, his aid in the district of Baptist Mills ranking as a great loss to the Liberal party. Mr Gibbons took an active interest in municipal affairs. For many years he held a responsible position at Messrs H. H. and S. Budgett and Co., wholesale grocers, Nelson Street, being well known in the markets of the north; but he subsequently went into business with Mr Sinnock, his brother-in-law, who, however, afterwards started in Baldwin Street, whilst Mr Gibbons then traded as Messrs Gibbons and Co., at Counterslip. The deceased gentleman was much esteemed by all classes, and was 62 years of age.
13/04/1892
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Winter Gibson
DEATH OF MR T. W. GIBSON
We regret to record the death of Mr T. W. Gibson, one of the councillors for the Clifton Ward of the city of Bristol, which occurred very suddenly, at his residence, 2, Worcester Villas, Clifton, yesterday morning. Mr Gibson, who was a barrister practising on the Western Circuit, lunched with the High Sheriff on Friday, and at the function received a slight chill, which kept him in the house on Saturday. He took to his bed on Sunday, and was attended by Dr. Tivy, but the indisposition was not considered to be of a serious nature. On Monday evening he was apparently better, and when last seen, about eleven o'clock, he appeared to be progressing favourably, and was in good spirits. Yesterday morning at six o'clock, the family and inmates of the house were startled by the intelligence that he had been found dead in bed, death having been due to apoplexy. The deceased gentleman was only 32 years old, and was the son of the late Mr Thomas Gibson, who for several years was one of the councillors for the Clifton Ward. He was educated at Clifton College and graduated at Oxford, being afterwards called to the bar. He was elected as a councillor for the Clifton Ward in November, 1890, with Mr C. J. C. Prichard. Last year he was made president of the Grateful Society, and his term of office would not have expired until November next. In politics he was a Conservative, and he took an active part in the affairs of the party in Bristol West. The deceased was not married.
02/11/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Benjamin Spry Stock
DEATH OF MR B. S. STOCK
We regret to state that Mr Benjamin Spry Stock, president of Bristol Stock Exchange, expired yesterday morning at Colwyn Bay, North Wales. The deceased gentleman, who had attained an advanced age, left the city some weeks ago for a holiday, but he became unwell, and his illness assumed a serious aspect. Last week he appeared to be improving but had a relapse. Mr Stock was a member of an old Bristol family, and a relative of Sir Edward S. Hill, M.P. His brother, Mr Edward Stock, acted for some year as sword bearer, and is connected with the sugar trade. The earliest minutes of the Bristol Stock Exchange show that in 1845 an association was in existence which afterwards developed into the Stock Exchange, and Sir J. K. Haberfield was president. In September of that year the deceased was elected a member, and among his colleagues were Sir George Edwards, Mr Robert Goss, Mr J. N. Morcom, Mr J. Kempson Thomas, and other citizens of good position. After the death of Mr Augustus F. Morcom, in 1885, Mr B. S. Stock was elected president, and at each subsequent annual meeting he was re-elected. His son, Mr Spry Stock, was associated with him in business as stockbrokers in Small Street Court, where the firm is known as Stock and Co. The deceased was not connected with many local undertakings. He became one of the original directors of the Bristol and West of England Building Society, but his connection with that society did not last long. He was also a director of the Bristol and South Wales Wagon Company, and remained on the board up to the time of his death. The Volunteer movement found in him an enthusiastic supporter, and for several years he was captain in the Artillery corps. He was twice married, his second wife surviving him.
15/08/1889
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Frederick Terrell
DEATH OF MR FREDERICK TERRELL
We regret to announce the death of Mr Frederick Terrell, which took place at his residence, 83, Pembroke Road, Clifton, yesterday morning. His decease was not unexpected, he having been dangerously ill for some time, and lay unconscious for some days before his death. Deceased, who was 85 years of age, had been living for some time in retirement, but down to 1883 he took an active part in municipal life in Bristol, and served the city as one of its representatives in the Town Council for the long period of 36 years. Mr Terrell was by profession a surgeon, and formerly practised in Charlotte Street, Queen Street. He entered the Town Council in 1847 as one of the representatives for Bedminster, and he sat for that ward down to 1880. In that year the Alteration of Wards Act came into operation and, Bedminster being divided, Mr Terrell was elected without opposition for the western portion. In 1883 he retired from the council, and since then he has taken no part in public matters. Mr Terrell was a member of the old Local Board, and he filled the office of chairman of the Sanitary Committee for a considerable number of years, having been succeeded in that office by Mr C. H. Low. For twenty years he was chairman of the committee of the Stapleton Lunatic Asylum, and in addition he was a magistrate for the city, a member of the board of Charity Trustees, and for a long period he held the office of chairman of the Bristol Gas Company.
06/03/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Joseph Weston
SIR JOSEPH WESTON
The phenomenally severe weather, which has been fatal to so many people, has added to its victims a justly-respected citizen of Bristol, who obtained at the hands of his fellow citizens the highest honour it was in their power to bestow, and whose services to the community amongst which he lived were recognised by the Sovereign by the bestowal of a knighthood. Sir Joseph Weston was spared a long illness. It is but a few days ago that he was attending, with his customary devotion to his duties as a member of Parliament, and he was so regular and vigilant in the discharge of these duties, and, notwithstanding his age, they appeared to have so little prejudicial effect upon his health, that the announcement of his death, after a very short illness, has taken everyone by surprise. It is not too much to say that if he had lived he could have remained the unchallenged member for East Bristol as long as he cared to occupy the position. Those who were in political sympathy with him watched, with great approval, his perfect reliability in support of his political leaders, and the conscientious way in which he made his political work the chief object of his life. And those who did not share his political views recognised in 1892, and were prepared to recognise again, that his political consistency and his personal popularity gave him an unassailable position in the great working-class constituency that he had represented since 1890.
In some respects his life was typical rather than extraordinary. There have been, and there are, many men who, by courage and insight in business matters, have acquired wealth and opportunities of public usefulness, and who have had the desire and the capacity to make the most of these opportunities. The history of our great municipalities has been largely made by such men. It is not, as a rule, the man who inherits leisure who best serves the public; it is, on the contrary, the man whose natural energy has been exercised and disciplined in his business pursuits, and whose legitimate success has made his fellow citizens feel that he can be safely entrusted with public responsibilities. Nor did the late Sir Joseph Weston wait until he had ceased to be a busy man before placing his services at the disposal of the public. His public work commenced thirty years ago, when he was in vigorous middle age, and for about twenty years he was a highly valued member of the Bristol Council. The confidence felt in his judgment was not due simply to the fact of his business capacity and success. Many men who succeed in business are the reverse of successful when acting with others. But Sir Joseph Weston had above all, the supreme quality of tact. He was, within the limits to which his opportunities were confined, a first class "man of affairs". As a Mayor, he was best known to the citizens by the liberality and dignity with which he discharged the more public duties of that position, but his talents were still more strikingly displayed in the skill and adroitness with which he presided over deliberations that concerned difficult and controversial business, and when it was decided that the city should, by purchasing the docks at Avonmouth and Portishead, end a struggle that was threatening in the words of the late Mr Brice, to bring ruin to the vanquished and sorrow to the victor, no praise could be too high for the industry, patience, good temper, and tact with which the Mayor carried out the delicate negotiations entrusted to him. It was, in great part, owing to the deep impression he had made as Mayor for four years that so strong a feeling was created that he should be the candidate of his party for the representation of the city in Parliament. A consistent, but not a prominent, supporter of Liberalism previously, Sir Joseph Weston devoted himself to his new duties with characteristic fidelity, and his natural kindliness of disposition and absence of anything like angularity of temperament preserved to him to the very end of his life the goodwill and respect of all with whom he was brought in contact.
In recalling Sir Joseph Weston's career it will appear to many that its distinguishing feature was not that he was a faithful and self-sacrificing supporter of the political principles in which he believed, but that he was a good citizen. This was, indeed, a phrase he was fond of. He was in the habit of telling the persons who were sworn in before him as freemen of the city, and who smiled at the archaic terms of the oath they had to take, that the spirit of the promise was that they would be good citizens. And his own sense of the duties that devolved upon him as a good citizen was not merely shown by devoting an enormous amount of time and trouble to the financial business of the city.
His very prominent share in the establishment of public libraries in this city will be recollected, and he was ready to associate himself with all movements that appeared likely to add to the happiness of the people and the welfare of the city. But he was always sincerely anxious that Bristol should be prosperous. There was nothing he more insisted upon in his speeches on municipal matters than the need of Bristol securing an export trade in order for the import trade to be properly developed, and his efforts to secure such a trade were supplemented by his active work as a director of two great manufacturing concerns situated in the district which he subsequently represented in Parliament. He believed in the city and port. He was not guilty of that strange but too prevalent habit of depreciating the trade and prospects of the place - a habit which when noticed by traders in other places creates a false and mischievous impression. A successful man, yet he made no enemies; a very wealthy man yet he represented, with general approval, a thoroughly working-class constituency; a firm Liberal, he was esteemed by his political opponents; a very busy man, and he found time to serve the public with singular efficiency. When all this can be truthfully said about any man it follows that he was a good citizen and a man of no ordinary qualities. And, hence, both as a citizen and as a man, Sir Joseph Weston's memory will be honoured by all classes.
06/12/1872
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Robert Charleton
DEATH OF MR ROBERT CHARLETON
Yesterday morning Mr Robert Charleton, whose benevolence has made his name a household word in this locality, died at his residence, Ashley Hill. The event was to a certain degree sudden, although Mr Charleton had for some years been suffering from a complaint which affected his face, and about two years since suffered considerably from it. He was still able to transact business, and until within the last few days was not confined to his house. About the beginning of the present week he was taken more seriously ill, and yesterday morning died from the effects of the malady which had so long afflicted him. Mr Charleton, who was sixty three years of age, was one of three sons of Mr James Charleton, a gentleman who formerly resided in this city. The two other sons met with a fatal boating accident near the mouth of the river. The surviving son, Mr Robert Charleton, as is well known in the neighbourhood, was a member of the Society of Friends; but his liberality of thought caused him to extend his benevolence far beyond the circle of a single sect. He often presided at meetings connected with other religious denominations, whilst his donations to help any cause in which he felt interested were frequent and sometimes munificent. For some years he carried on a manufactory at Two Mile Hill, at which he employed several hundred people, and he kept it on to his own disadvantage for some time, rather than cause those persons to be deprived of their means of support. In his private life he was greatly esteemed for his thorough simplicity and kindliness of heart. He used to express himself as obliged to anyone who brought a deserving case of necessity under his notice. He made it a rule never to reject any application unless he doubted its genuineness, and he often gave liberally without being personally asked for assistance. Mr Charleton took no very active part in politics, although his political convictions were very settled. His attention was mainly directed to social matters, and on the peace question, temperance, and kindred subjects he interested himself very deeply. He was a strong supporter of the temperance movement in the district, and of late years he took a great interest in the Contagious Diseases Acts, to which he was most strenuously opposed. It may be remembered that at the Social Science meeting held in Bristol three years ago Mr Charleton attended and strongly advised the repeal of the Acts. There have been few men in the neighbourhood of Bristol who have been so universally respected and beloved as Mr Charleton, and the announcement of his death will be received with heartfelt sorrow wherever the influence of his life has extended. Mr Charleton married some years ago Miss Fox, a lady from the neighbourhood of Bridgwater, and leaves one son, a boy of about twelve years of age. One of the great events in Mr Charleton's life was his visit, in company with two other Friends, to the Czar Nicholas - an interview which was at the time the cause of much discussion. The event is thus referred to in Chambers's History of the Russian War:-
"Another effort to preserve peace, and one of a singular character, was made in a non-official quarter. The members of the Society of Friends have ever been remarkable for the consistency with which, through good report and evil report, they have deprecated war in all its forms; and they resolved on an attempt to move the mighty czar, who would not be moved by the united voice of Europe. On the 20th January, three Quakers - Henry Pease, of Darlington, Joseph Sturge, of Birmingham, and Robert Charleton, of Bristol - set out on a winter-journey from London to St. Petersburg, by way of Berlin, Konigsberg, and Riga. the route from Riga to St. Petersburg was traversed by means of sledges; and no fewer than three hundred horses were required for this service, by successive relays on the road. Considering the great amount of snow which had fallen, however, and the extent of the journey, the travellers reached their destination with less discomfort than they expected. On their arrival at the Russian capital, they obtained an introduction to a gentleman who had resided in Russia for forty years, and who, it was thought, would be of service to them in their delicate mission. He advised them to solicit an interview with Count Nesselrode, Chancellor or Prime Minister of the empire. This they did, stating that they had not deemed it advisable to apply to their own Ministers, or to the Russian ambassador in London; and that, for the same reasons, they had preferred applying to Count Nesselrode direct, for the purpose of securing his assistance in the presentation of the Society's address to the Emperor. They waited on the count, and left him a French copy of the address for the Emperor's perusal. As a consequence, they were admitted to an audience of the Emperor of the 10th. They read an address from the Society of Friends, praying the Emperor, in the name of that Christianity which was alike his religion and theirs, to avert the horrors of war by adopting some other means than those of bloodshed to heal the wounds between him and other sovereigns. He received them kindly, and then spoke at some length, throwing the whole blame of the war upon others - as was his wont whether in speaking or writing. He then introduced them to the Empress and the Grand Duchess Olga - daughter of the Czar, and Princess Royal of Wurtemberg - by whom they were courteously received. The Emperor sent a written reply by the three deputies to the Society of Friends in England; and thus ended an attempt, fruitless in result, but respectable for the singleness of purpose, an the unselfishness which had suggested it. The proceeding, however, did not pass without many strictures in Parliament. It was urged in many quarters that private individuals, however excellent their motives, could not thus assume the management of international disputes, without incurring a risk of embarrassing the Government on whom the responsibility of public affairs rested."
Recently Mr Charleton has not appeared much in public, but his letters to this journal showed that his mind was active and vigorous, and that the same class of subjects which had always interested him engaged his attention and receive his valuable support so long as physical strength permitted him to take a part in public affairs.
16/04/1883
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Algernon W. Warren
DEATH OF MR ALGERNON W. WARREN
We regret to announce the death of Mr Algernon W. Warren, who expired yesterday morning, at his residence, Lanesfield Villas, Durdham Down, after a few days' illness. On Tuesday or Wednesday he had an attack of bronchitis, but this did not prevent him from sitting on the bench at the police court on Wednesday. On Thursday he felt unable to leave his house, though he dined with his family. He was seriously ill on Friday and Saturday, and on Saturday night became considerably worse. Yesterday morning he sank gradually and expired calmly, about six o'clock. He was attended by the family surgeon, Mr Augustin Prichard, of Clifton, who had been an old schoolfellow of Mr Warren at the College in Park Row. About six months ago the deceased gentleman suffered from a severe chest complaint, which necessitated an absence from his duties from some time. Mr Warren, who was sixty-two years of age, was a native of Carmarthen, where some members of his family still reside. His father, a prominent member of the Wesleyan Methodist Connexion, for some years went abroad as a missionary, and returning to Carmarthen started in business as a druggist, occasionally officiating in the town as a local preacher. He then came to Bristol and opened premises in Redcliff Street as a wholesale druggist, and afterwards his three sons succeeded him, but of late years the sole control of the business has been under Mr Algernon Warren, who carried on the trade with great success, rarely a day passing that he did not visit the establishment. He, however, was too unwell to go there on Wednesday, notwithstanding a sense of duty made him, in pursuance of his week's engagement at the police court, attend on the bench. Besides superintending his own business, he took a deep interest in public affairs; and one distinguishing trait in his character was the ardour with which he entered into any movement he considered likely to prove advantageous to the city. As long ago as 1861 he evinced much interest in matters relating to the harbour, and advocated the proposed Clifton Extension Railway, that would have formed a junction with Canons' Marsh and the Port and Pier line - a scheme that was, after a great deal of discussion, abandoned. He took a prominent position in urging the formation of a trust for the docks of the city and those at the mouth of the Avon; and besides urging this measure upon the Town Council, spoke on it at different meetings held in Bristol. One of the leaders of the Liberal party in the city, he was an able supporter of movements for political reform, always giving effect to his views by well-delivered and thoughtful addresses. Twelve years ago he was one of the representatives of Redcliff Ward in the municipal council, and never failed to press upon the attention of the Corporation the consideration of objects that he thought would benefit the citizens. For some years he ceased to be a member of the Council, but afterwards was returned a member for the new ward of St. Philip's North, which he represented at the time of his death. He was on the Finance, Parliamentary Bills, and Library Committees, to all of which he rendered useful service. In 1869 Mr Warren presided at the dinner of the Anchor Society, the president for the previous year having been Mr Lewis Fry, the one of the succeeding year Mr Joseph D. Weston (the present Mayor); and in the year following the deceased's brother-in-law, Mr Charles Thomas was president. The formation of the Bristol Cambrian Society was due in a great measure to the exertions of Mr Warren, and he presided at one of its annual dinners. He was also chosen president of the Caledonian Society, and those who heard his speech in proposing success to that society recall even now the vigour with which he presented its claims and narrated striking events in Scottish history. His addresses at the Cambrian Society's banquets were always witty and forcible, and on last St. David's Day he attempted in an amusing manner to demonstrate that certain noted personages mst from their names have been of Welsh descent, somewhat after the manner that Dean Swift endeavoured to show that celebrated Greek and Roman heroes owed their names to modern English words rather than to direct classical derivations. Mr Warren was a director of the Channel Docks Company, and though not on the board of the Taff Vale Company, he was a large shareholder, and few meetings passed without his speaking at them. He also took an active part in the deliberations of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr Warren married a sister of the Messrs Christopher, Herbert, and Charles Thomas, proprietors of the Board Plain Soap Works, and that lady survives him. He leaves six children, four sons and two daughters, a third daughter having died within the last twelve months. His eldest son, Mr Thomas Herbert Warren, has gained for himself a brilliant reputation as a scholar, and is fellow of Magalene College, Oxford, and a member of the council of Clifton College. The second son, Mr Edward Warren, has lately been admitted a member of the Royal Society of Architects. The deceased was a Congregationalist, and attended worship at Highbury Chapel. To those who saw him a short time ago he seemed likely to spend many years of usefulness, as he spoke with his accustomed ability at the recent banquet of the Chamber of Commerce in proposing the toast of the "Association of Chambers of Commerce of the United Kingdom", and a fortnight ago he gave a telling address at the annual meeting of the Liberal operatives' Association, held at the Star Coffee House. The intelligence of his sudden death will be read with pain and surprise by many, as his relatives did not anticipate a fatal result to his illness. Only on Saturday Mr Charles Thomas, his brother-in-law, and Mrs Thomas left their residence at Stoke Bishop for Southerndown, near Bridgend, where they intended remaining for some time. Yesterday morning they received a telegram informing them of the death of Mr Warren, and they returned home in consequence last night.
07/01/1878
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Alfred Stone
THE LATE MR ALFRED STONE
The announcement of the death of Mr Alfred Stone, choir master of the Bristol Musical Festival Society, has no doubt been read with mingled feelings of regret and sympathy by all the members of his choir, as well as by local musicians and the public generally. Mr Stone had attained a position of special prominence in musical circles, and a few words respecting his industrious career may not be out of place.
As a youth, Mr Stone entered the counting-house of Messrs Thomas, Fripp, and Thomas (now C. Thomas and Bros.), and the Broad Plain Soap Works. There his early musical talent, his steady industry, and genial manner, caused Mr E. B. Fripp to take great interest in him; and, following Mr Fripp's friendly advice, he wet to Mr Corfe (the late organist of Bristol Cathedral), for organ instruction. Under Mr Corfe's tuition his aptitude for acquiring musical knowledge speedily developed itself, and, with Mr Corfe's recommendation, he was soon enabled to obtain the position of organist in St. Paul's Church, Clifton, where for some time previously he had been in the choir. Eventually he left here to undertake a similar position at Arley Chapel, and subsequently, after some years' service, he became organist at Highbury Chapel. It was felt, indeed, that wherever congregational singing needed a strong impetus he would be successful; and this led to his return to his old post at St. Paul's, where the musical arrangement had undergone an alteration, and where the Reverend Canon Mather knew Mr Stone's musical knowledge and taste would be invaluable. Here he remained for some time, but finally left for Christ Church, Clifton, where, the duties being lighter, more time was left him for following the profession to which he was so ardently devoted. Besides these successive appointments, he had held for some years past the post of organist at the Mayor's Chapel, and among the many educational institutions which profited by his instruction in singing may be mentioned the Red Maids' School, the City School, and the Blind Asylum. Private schools and private pupils vied with each other for his tutorship. Mr Stone was a thorough musician; not content with the mechanical part of his profession, he entered into the higher aspects, and regarded music as the utterance, the expression in "tone form" of the emotions, and his great desire was that his pupils should feel what they played or sung, endeavouring as much as possible to enter into the feelings of the composer. It was on this account his services were so eagerly sought after. Mr Stone aimed at perfectness of execution and design, and was not satisfied unless the music corresponded with the words. To him the organ was but a sustainer of the choir, and both of the congregation, and in his selection of tunes his object was to find music that should adequately express the sentiments of the hymn or psalm. No pedantic variation of time or volume had his approval, but any modulation the words demanded were considered obligatory. It may be truly said that many a congregation sings with greater feeling and reverence, because of the direct or indirect influence of Mr Stone.
About 14 years ago Mr Stone mastered the tonic sol-fa system, and his classes were largely attended. When the first idea of a Bristol Musical Festival was mooted, and the question of a conductor came before the committee, Mr Stone was unanimously elected, and the grand success, musically, of the concerts hitherto given has amply justified the choice. Mr Charles Halle spoke in the highest terms of Mr Stone's talent, and said last November that there was no need for his band to rehearse with the choir, his previous experience of Mr Stone having convinced him that it was unnecessary.
Apart from Mr Stone's intensive love of his art, and his intimate knowledge of music and its accessories (he even studied the anatomy of the throat, going to a local professor for instruction in the matter), he had those winning ways without which no choir master can hope to say that a large majority of the Festival Choir worked with him because to do so was one of the pleasures of their lives.
Some few years ago Mr Stone passed the matriculation examination at Oxford prior to taking a musical degree, but his duties in connection with the festival left him no time for the latter.
Mr Stone will be best known in after years for his editorship of the Bristol Tune Book - a book which, perhaps, more than any other (with the exception of the Hymns Ancient and Modern), has influenced, and will influence, the character of public worship both in England and in the Colonies. The editing of a tune book is no easy matter, yet in his short life and amid other engrossing engagements, he succeeded in giving two such to the public - the Bristol Tune Book, and the Supplement to the same. In these volumes are several tunes of Mr Stone's composing, and it will be found on reference how admirably he has caught the spirit of the words for which he wrote melodies. The Orpheus Glee Society has lost in him a most intelligent conductor.
In private life Mr Stone exhibited the most unselfish, generous principles, and the same warm heart that irresistibly drew men to him in his public relations. The loss of his widow and little ones is simply irreparable. He died at the early age of 38, at the residence of Mr A. N. Price, Stoke Bishop, whither he had been removed a few days ago in the hope that a change of air and scene might effect an improvement in his condition, which even then was alarming. his last appearance in public was at the two concerts given in November by the Festival Choir with Mr Halle's band, and the last piece which he himself conducted was Mr Roeckel's ode in memory of Titiens. He fell a victim to the colds long neglected, in devotion to his duty; he never would nurse himself or believe that he was ill, and would let nothing interfere with his public engagements till it was too late. He is to be buried in Arno's Vale Cemetery on Wednesday morning next, at twelve o'clock, when the Rev. Arnold Thomas will conduct the service.
22/11/1878
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr R. W. Tibbits
DEATH OF MR R. W. TIBBITS
It is with sincere regret that we announce this morning the death of Mr R. W. Tibbits, M.B., M.R.C.S., who expired at his residence, 1, Pembroke Road, yesterday morning, at comparatively early age of 38. About two months ago the deceased gentleman was seized with a paralytic stroke, and he continued ill fora considerable time. His health so far improved, however, as to induce the hope that he would recover, but on Tuesday he had a second seizure, of a very serious character, and he survived the shock for only about twenty-four hours. The announcement of Mr Tibbits' death will be read with very general sorrow, for both in his professional and private capacity he was deservedly esteemed amongst all with whom he was associated. He was a surgeon of special ability, as was partly shown by his appointment to more than one post of responsibility in the city.
It is well known that for a considerable period Mr Tibbits held the post of surgeon at the Royal Infirmary, and his relation to that institution was something more than a merely professional one. He took a deep interest in everything affecting its prosperity, and this was prominently shown during the discussion which arose as to the sanitary condition of the Infirmary. Since the death of Dr Bernard the deceased had acted as surgeon to the Bristol police force, and some twelve months ago, when Mr Crosby Leonard resigned his position of surgeon to the Bridewell, the appointment was given to Mr Tibbits. He also for some time represented the Faculty of the Medical School on the council of the Bristol University College, but resigned that post during the present year. For a number of years Mr Tibbits also acted as assistant surgeon to the First Gloucester Volunteer Rifle Corps. Mr Tibbits leaves one child, his wife having died shortly after giving birth to this child about two years ago.
In Bristol and Clifton Mr Tibbits had many personal friends, and among these the comparatively early death of his wife and himself will continue for many years to come to be a source of heartfelt regret. Mr Tibbits took a deep interest in all questions affecting the public health, and we have had occasion to notice in occasional contributions made by him to our leading columns an earnest desire, expressed in convincing language, to make philanthropy do its work efficiently and with due regard to the proper economy of means. Mr Tibbits was an able writer on subjects which engaged his attention, and nothing gave him so much pleasure as labour in which he believed he was contributing to the happiness of others. By the Infirmary staff and his brethren in the profession his death will be regarded with the feeling which is evoked by the loss of a friend whose skill and kindliness of disposition command more than respect, and by all who have benefited by his skilled labours he will be lamented as one whose services were doubly valuable from the conscientious and faithful manner in which they were performed.
21/12/1885
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Felce Hare
DEATH OF MR CHARLES FELCE HARE
We regret to announce the death, after but a comparatively short illness, of Mr Charles Felce Hare, at his residence, Beaufort Road, Clifton. Mr Hare had for some little time been under medical treatment, but his business life was interrupted only for brief intervals. Following an operation about a fortnight ago a chill was received in an incautious exposure to cold air, but it was not till Wednesday last the symptoms assumed a serious form, and the tidings of his decease, which occurred on Friday night, came quite unexpectedly to the wide circle in which he moved. Mr Hare had for many years been amongst those who took a prominent part in all that concerned the city's welfare. One of the most active members of the local Chamber of Commerce, he was chosen as president of that body, and was prevented filling the chair for a second year only by the pressure of other engagements. Mr Hare's greatest interest was manifested in the affairs of the Chamber of Commerce, and in a letter dated so recently as December 15 he wrote to Mr J. Colthurst Godwin, the president, saying that he would be unable to propose on the next day the resolution on gold and silver ratio for the meeting of the Association Cambers of Commerce standing in his name, as he was suffering from a most severe attack of cold, which, together with a slight accident to his leg, had quite prostrated him for a time. He was elected on the council of the Bristol Chamber in 1877, and form that time till a few days before his death had been one of the most regular attendants at all the meetings. He was elected president after passing the junior and senior vice-chairs, April 26th, 1882. At the annual meeting of the chamber in 1883 over which he presided, Mr Lewis Fry, M.P., said of him that the chamber had never selected a president who displayed greater zeal, assiduity, and intelligence in the conduct of the affairs committed to him. Mr Hare presided over the special meeting of the council of the chamber February 7th, 1883, when the promotion of the Bristol and London and South Western Junction Railway Bill was first discussed, and he gave evidence before the select committee of the House of Commons in favour of the bill. He also previously joined the deputation to the board of directors of the London and South Western Railway Company on the subject of that bill. On April 25th, 1883 he was re-elected president of the chamber, but was forced to resign that position on account of the pressure of other private and public engagements. He attended most of the annual and autumnal meetings of the Associated Chambers of Commerce held since his connection with the local chamber, and took part in nearly all the discussions affecting the general trade and commerce of the country. At the meeting of the Associated Chambers in London on the 24th of February, 1885, Mr Hare moved on behalf of the Bristol Chamber, "That seeing the long continued depression in trade, the want of employment among the working classes, and the falling off to the export foreign trade, the Government be memorialised by the association to recommend her Majesty to appoint a Royal Commission in inquire into the causes". In moving that resolution Mr Hare made one of his most effective speeches. Amongst the questions which he evinced a deep interest in were the Bankruptcy Law Amendment and the Sugar Bounty question, both by making speeches and writing letters to the newspapers. One of his latest communications on fair trade appeared in the columns of the Daily Press a few weeks ago. He had represented Redcliff Ward in the Council since 1880, and both at the council meetings and at the committees on which he served he was known as one taking a thoughtful interest in most matters under discussion. In the dock question he had long had a special interest. By his courtesy and kindliness Mr Felce Hare made many friends, and his early death will be widely lamented. He was 34 years of age, was the son of the Rev. Henry Hare, grandson of Mr Charles Hare, and the great-grandson of Mr John Hare, the founder of the business of Messrs J. Hare and Co., Bath Bridge, of which Mr Felce Hare had been for a lengthened period partner. He was a nephew of Mr Sholto V. Hare, who on several occasions was Conservative candidate for Bristol. He was born at Bradford, Wilts; he married a daughter of Mr Bayfield Clark of Wingfield, near Trowbridge, and that lady survives him. The bell at Temple Church, of which Mr Hare was churchwarden, tolled a solemn peal on Saturday morning, and many residents of the neighbourhood showed their feelings of respect on becoming aware of his death.
01/12/1879
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev S. A. Walker
DEATH OF THE REV. S. A. WALKER
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. S. A. Walker, rector of St. Mary-le-Port, Bristol. Mr Walker had been ill for a few weeks only, but for some days past his condition had been critical, and he expired yesterday morning. Mr Walker, who was in his 71st year, was born in Dublin, and his father was a member of the Irish bar. He was a descendant of the celebrated Rev. G. Walker, whose active exertions in connection with that stirring incident in Irish history, "the opening of the gates of Derry", has been so graphically described by Macauley. the deceased was educated at Trinity College, Dublin where he took the degree of M.A. In 1857 he was appointed vicar of St. Mary-le-Port, the living, which is worth about £800 per annum, being in the patronage of Mr George Cooke, of Clifton. Mr Walker, as a popular minister holding what are termed Evangelical views, was known throughout the country, and of late years his name was associated chiefly with the conference of Christians which met annually at Clifton. This organisation, though locally established by Mr Walker, could not be said to have originated with him, it being an adaptation of a conference convened by Mr Pennefather, of Barnet, who by a coincidence was also the son of an Irish barrister, afterwards a judge, taking his seat on the bench as Baron Pennefather. Besides attaining celebrity as a preacher, the deceased was a somewhat prolific writer. When a young man, and before becoming a clergyman, he published some books, and since then he had written many pamphlets, in addition to two large volumes on missions, issued in 1835. A few years ago he wrote anonymously a work which was much read, for private reasons preferring not to attach his name to the publications. The book in question was a tale entitled "From the Curate to the Convent", and was announced as "written by a Churchman". For the last six years Mr Walker was a member of the Bristol School Board. He leaves a widow, but no children.
By the death of Mr Walker, Bristol has lost a citizen who, in his way, was a man of mark. On Church questions he thought strongly and spoke strongly; but even those who differed from him admired his conscientious fidelity to what he believed to be the mission of the Church. Mr Walker made many personal friends, and he will be missed not only by his congregation, who regarded him with a feeling akin to personal affection, but by the citizens generally, who knew him as a clergyman who thought no labour too great when he believed a good cause was to be advanced. The death of Mr Walker was briefly referred to in the morning at Mary-le-port Church by the Rev. J. Ormiston, of Dudley, who occupied he pulpit; and it was also mentioned in several other places of worship. The Rev. E. G. Gange, at Broadmead Chapel, in the course of prayer, blessed God for the life of usefulness that had just been closed; it was a life that, with Romanism in some parts of the Church, could ill be spared - a life of devotion to the truth.
04/12/1879
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Kingdon
DEATH OF MR KINGDON, Q.C.
We regret to announce the death of Mr Thos. Kingdon, Q.C., Recorder of Bristol. Mr Kingdon had been ill for some time past, and he expired on Tuesday at his residence, Clarendon Place, Kensington. The deceased was well known on the Western Circuit, and also as Recorder for this city. He was called to the bar at the Inner Temple in 1848, became a Q.C. in 1866, and was appointed Recorder of Bristol in August, 1872, and presided here as Recorder at the October session following. Mr Kingdon made many friends, and was very highly esteemed for his excellent qualities, personal and judicial, and his death will be sincerely regretted by all who intimately knew him. Mr Kingdon's career at the bar was always looked upon in the profession with considerable expectations, and his appointment to a Recordership that had been held by so eminent a lawyer as Lord Chief Justice Cookburn met with general approval. In delivering his first charge to the grand jury here he modestly said that he would endeavour to bring to the discharge of his duties the best powers with which it had pleased God to bless him, and if the citizens believed that he faithfully endeavoured to do his duty he felt that they would give their confidence. The promise thus made was faithfully kept, and Mr Kingdon will be remembered in his official capacity as one who brought to the discharge of his important duties a keen perception of the value of evidence, and an ardent desire that in his hands justice in the merciful sense should be vindicated.
As a reminiscence of a period which is fast passing from the memory of the present generation, we may recall an incident in Mr Kingdon's career before he became a Q.C. About twenty years ago he was retained, with Mr (afterwards Sir) Frederick Slade in a somewhat famous breach of promise case, Miles v. Magan, which was on the cause list for trail at Bristol, Mr (now the Right Hon. Sir Robert) Collier being for the defendant, who represented Westmeath in Parliament. The case was settled, and was made the subject of a clever poem, written in the Irish patois, and "said" to have been found on sweeping the court at the close of the assize. These verses originally appeared in the Western Daily Press, and were quoted very extensively. In this poem Mr Kingdon's name occurs:-
So the action was brought
And the pleadings were wrought.
By 'cute Mister Kingdon, that rising young man;
Bound Counsellor Slade
Was handsomely faad
To speak for Miss Ellen 'gainst Mister Magan.
Since that day the "rising young man" has done honourable public service, and he has passed away amid circumstances which remind us once more "what shadows we are and what shadows we pursue".
Our London correspondent, telegraphing last night, says:- The great bell of the Temple has this week been solemnly tolling out its mark of respect to dead benchers. A day or two ago it was for Mr Roebuck, and now the knell peals forth for poor Tom Kingdon. Mr Kingdon, who has been for many years a Queen's Counsel and a bencher, will be deeply regretted on the Western Circuit, of which he was one of the leaders. His death also creates a vacancy in the recordership of Bristol. He belongs by birth to Exeter, and his wife, who died in 1876, was also the representative of a good West country family. Mr Kingdon has borne his burden of sorrow in the last four years, for not only his wife, but his oldest son, Esdaile Kingdon, a writer of no ordinary ability in London, had been taken from him suddenly. The deceased leaves a handsome fortune, I understand, to a daughter and two sons, one of the latter being a barrister in London, and the other an artist in Rome.
16/10/1879
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Crosby Leonard
THE LATE MR CROSBY LEONARD
We have already announced the death of Mr Crosby Leonard, the well-known surgeon, of this city, and the announcement will have been read with deep regret by all who knew Mr Leonard personally. Among his colleagues in the profession Mr Leonard was held in high esteem. His skill in the department to which he had specially devoted his attention and for which he had special qualifications, was fully recognised, and in saying that during the whole of his professional life he devoted himself to every individual case with the ardour of an enthusiast who believed that in contending with disease and in affording relief to those who have been accidentally injured, success depends to a great extent in bringing skill to bear at every stage at which abnormal symptoms manifest themselves, we are saying no more than is well known to the profession and to a large section of the public.
Nothing gave him more pleasure than to conquer in a difficult case, and many instances could be named in which his keen perception of probabilities, and his readiness at critical moments, have been the means of restoring patients to health which seemed to have gone for ever, and saving lives that had been despaired of by those who were closely watching the contest between the skill which Mr Leonard represented and the malady which was threatening life itself. Among his patients Mr Leonard's death will be lamented as a personal loss, while the members of the profession will regret the loss of a colleague whose manly character and splendid attainments gave him a well-deserved position. Mr Leonard has completed his life's work at a comparatively early age, but it was a life of unceasing activity, involving incessant wear and tear, and measured by its achievements in a profession that is always arduous the results are neither insignificant nor unimportant. Mr Leonard will be missed as a citizen who stood high in his profession and as a practitioner whose genial presence was always cheering. The public invariably part with such a man regretfully, and the regret which will be felt at Mr Leonard's death will be intensified by the knowledge that he had not attained the age at which the mature powers of the strong may be expected naturally to decline. His life was a busy life to the last, and of its value in the district both in its direct and indirect influence there will be but one opinion.
12/09/1879
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Kirkman Daniel Hodgson
DEATH OF MR K. D. HODGSON
We regret to announce the death of Mr K. D. Hodgson, who represented Bristol in Parliament from June, 1870, until December last. Mr Hodgson died at his country residence, Ashgrove, Sevenoaks. He never completely recovered from the serious illness which necessitated his retirement from Parliament, and it eventually resulted in his death, which took place at six o'clock last evening.
Mr Kirkman Daniel Hodgson, was the eldest son of the late Mr John Hodgson, of The Elms, Hampstead. He was born in 1814, and was educated at the Charterhouse. In 1843 he married Frances - who died in 1861 - daughter of the late Mr J. L. Butler, of Southgate. Mr Hodgson was a partner in the great mercantile firm of Baring, Brothers, and Co., of Bishopsgate Street, London. He was also a director of the Bank of England, of which he was for many years governor, a commissioner of the Public Works Loan Office, a justice of the peace for the Liberty of St. Albans and of Herts - of which county he was High Sheriff in 1848 - and a director of the Pelican Life and of the Phoenix Fire Insurance Company.
Mr Hodgson, who described himself as a "decided Liberal", sat for Bridport from 1857 to 1868. His connection with Bristol dated from 1870. On March 22nd and 23rd in that year there was a test ballot for the selection of a Liberal candidate, the result of which was as follows:-
Robinson ... 4,502
Hodgson ... 2,861
Odger ... 1,335
Mr Hodgson was first returned for Bristol on the 25th of June, 1870, in a single context with Mr S. V. Hare, when the poll was as follows:-
Hodgson ... 7,816
Hare ... 7,328
At the general election in 1874 Mr Hodgson was returned at the head of the poll, the figures being,
Hodgson ... 8,888
Morley ... 8,732
Hare ... 8,522
Chambers ... 7,626
Mr Hodgson's connection with Bristol terminated on the 5th of December, 1878, when he resigned on account of illness. The news of his retirement was received with regret by the constituents generally, and it was only when it was found that the nature of his illness precluded any hope of his being able to resume his parliamentary duties that the Liberal Party reluctantly accepted his resignation. By no one was this regret felt more keenly than by his colleague, Mr Samuel Morley. Speaking at the Colston Hall in November, when Mr Hodgson's retirement was imminent, Mr Morley, M.P., said he looked back with thankfulness on every ground, personal grounds especially, but on public grounds as well, to the time when he had been associated with Mr Hodgson in the representation of the city of Bristol. During that time they had never had an approach to a misunderstanding. Whoever might be his successor, he looked with deep regret at the prospect of losing the support of his old friend and colleague.
During his connection with Bristol Mr Hodgson won the esteem of members of both political parties. Although he took no part in Parliamentary debates, his large commercial experience enabled him to promote the interests of the city, and his genial manner and felicitous speeches at public gatherings rendered him popular amongst all classes of the constituents. The news of his death will be received with regret in many circles, but by none will his decease be more sincerely deplored than by his former constituents at Bristol.
18/08/1879
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Richard Rawlinson Vyvyan
DEATH OF A FORMER MEMBER FOR BRISTOL
The death is announced at his seat, near Helston, of Sir Richard Rawlinson Vyvyan, Bart., the representative of one of the oldest families in the county of Cornwall, and who had for many years occupied a prominent position as a politician of the old-fashioned Tory school in the days preceding the first Reform Bill. Sir Richard, who was born in 1800, represented Bristol from 1832 to 1837. He headed the poll in the former year, at the first election after the passing of the Reform Bill. His success was in great part due to a disagreement amongst the Liberals, who ran three candidates, Mr Baillie, who was elected, with about five hundred fewer votes than Sir Richard Vyvyan, and Messrs Protheroe and John Williams, the defeated candidates. At the next election, in 1835, Mr Philip J. Miles headed the poll, with 3,709 votes, Sir Richard Vyvyan coming second with 3,312. The unsuccessful candidates were Mr J. E. Baillie and Sir J. C. Hobhouse, Bart., both Liberals. This election was a surprise, as the show of hands at the nomination had been largely in favour of the Liberals. In 1837 Sir Richard Vyvyan declined re-election, and his connection with Bristol thus ceased. Four years later he was elected for the Cornish borough of Helston, which he represented until 1857.
24/11/1871
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Overton Wills
THE LATE MR H.O. WILLS
The death of this old and respected citizen of Bristol took place yesterday morning, at his residence, Cotham. Mr Wills was in his usual health until a few weeks ago, when he had a very heavy attack of cold, which, we believe, eventually assumed the form of bronchitis, and terminated fatally yesterday. Mr Wills occupied for many years a leading position in the Liberal and Nonconformist circles of Bristol. He was a magistrate, and, for a considerable time, a member of the Town Council, having represented the ward of St. Paul until, finding his infirmity from deafness prevented him from discharging the duties as he desired to do, he retired from the Corporation. There were few more kind-hearted men. He was a generous giver towards all charitable and religious movements, and though a very staunch Dissenter, we believe he was not prevented by this fact from aiding in benevolent objects in which the members of other persuasions were prominently active. He laid the foundation stones of almost innumerable chapels, and in each case his contribution was large. It was only a few years ago that he made a tour in Wales with his friend Mr Morley, on which occasion, we believe, the Nonconformists of the Principality had reason to be pleased with the visit of two such wealthy friends. Mr Wills leaves a large family, having had ten or twelve children, some of them engaged in the large business with which he and his father and brother before him had been connected. Their tobacco manufactory in Redcliff Street is one of the most extensive in the country, and we believe one of the finest. It was said to be the practice of Mr Wills, when giving to public and charitable objects, to so regulate and increase his insurances, that his family should not be in any way sufferers from his munificence. Of the three brothers who were at one time actively occupied in business in Bristol, we believe only one now survives - Mr F. Wills, of Clevedon. The flags on the Council House and Exchange were half-masted yesterday, in respect to the memory of the deceased.
28/09/1874
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Richard Poole King
DEATH OF MR RICHARD POOLE KING
This gentleman, who has been seriously unwell only ten days, died at Brislington, where he has resided many years, on Saturday afternoon. It was his 75th birthday, and the sad event was not entirely unexpected by his friends, for his power of recovery was seen to be slight. Mr King was suffering from an attack of diarrhoea and inflammation, which from the first assumed a dangerous form, and when the bell of Redcliff Church tolled at the early hour of six yesterday morning the occasion for it was already imagined. During the day a flag at half-mast was suspended from the church, and in the evening the bell was again tolled. Mr King's career has been more influential than prominent, and his actions will be better remembered by his equals in age than by younger men. He had the art of governing others whilst himself remaining unseen to an unusual degree, and possessed the confidence of both political parties. Still he was a staunch Conservative, and there was no leader of his party more trusted and from whom advice was more often taken. It is no secret that he was repeatedly pressed to stand as a candidate for Bristol in the Conservative interest; and, it is believed, he would have thoroughly united the party. Soon after the passing of the Municipal Reform Act he served the office of Mayor; he was a member of, and had passed the chair of, the Merchant Venturers' Society; senior magistrate of Bristol, and chairman of the magistrates' board; the oldest member of the Town Council, where, sitting uninterruptedly for Redcliff, he occupied a somewhat analogous position to that taken by the late Mr Alderman Abbot. The death of these gentlemen within so short a period deprives the Conservatives of two most able leaders. Mr King's health had not permitted him to take much part in municipal affairs for some years, but his influence was exerted in many ways. Whenever he spoke his words were listened to with the utmost attention; in fact, he was regarded as the Nestor of the Corporation, and from his great experience in the affairs of the city he was frequently enabled to set matters right when they were historically wrong. The last two occasions on which we remember to have seen his name in print were the letter he wrote to the Times on the Ashantee war and his correspondence on Church matters with Colonel Savile, which recently appeared in our columns. He was, until about a year ago, when he retired, the chief partner in the African house bearing his name, and as a merchant his credit and integrity stood second to none. In Clifton society Mr King occupied an honoured place, and in the poorer districts of the city his abundant charities will be remembered and missed. Mr King was twice married. By his first wife he leaves a daughter, married to Mr Alderman Fox; and by his second - a sister of Canon Lyddon - there are several children.
04/04/1874
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Alderman Henry Abbot
DEATH OF ALDERMAN ABBOT
We deeply regret to have to record the death of Alderman Abbot, whose illness was announced in the Daily Press a few days ago. He had been ailing for some time, but it was thought that by change of air and scenery he would soon recover, and resume the important duties which devolved upon him. At first he went to Weston-super-Mare, but not regaining strength he resolved upon going to London to consult an eminent physician. He accordingly went to London on Sunday week, and was attended by one of the first physicians in the metropolis. It was then discovered that the illness from which he was suffering was disease of the heart. No grave results were then apprehended, and it was hoped that by judicious and careful treatment he might be restored to health; but in the course of a few days the symptoms gradually became worse, and such was his critical condition that his immediate relatives were summoned from Abbot's Leigh, where his family resided. He continued to get weaker until Thursday night, when he died. The deceased gentleman, who was about sixty years of age, married the daughter of the late Ald. Thos. Lucas, by whom he has several children. In addition to his being alderman of Bristol, he was chairman of the Bristol Water Works Company, director of the Ashton Vale Company, one of the Charity Trustees, and the head of the well-known firm of Abbot and Leonard,solicitors, of Albion Chambers. He served his articles with the late Mr G. F. Peters, after which he became junior member in the firm of Peters and Abbot. The partnership in this firm was subsequently dissolved, and then he practised alone. He afterwards entered into partnership with Mr Colston Lucas, and it was continued for several years, until in 1858 the firm of Abbot, Lucas, and Leonard was created. Upon the death of Mr Lucas, a few years afterwards, the business was carried on under the names of Abbot and Leonard, the latter of whom died on the 18th of January. Since that date, Mr Abbot, with the able assistance of Mr J. Warley, his confidential clerk, conducted the extensive business of the office. He will be succeeded in the business by his eldest son, Mr Henry Napier Abbot, in conjunction with Mr J. N. O. Pope - the firm taking the title of Abbot and Pope. The deceased, as a debater in the Town Council, had few, if any, equals. His speeches were able and argumentative, and always to the point. In his professional business he was a man of sterling integrity. He never advised his clients to fight their battles in the law courts unless there was absolute necessity for such advice. His desire invariably was to get grievances settled by compromise, and by this means, though for a time he might displease his clients, he promoted a conciliation which in the end turned out to be for the advantage of all concerned. In the death of Mr Abbot Bristol has lost one of its most worthy citizens, the profession which he adorned an able and honourable member, and society a kind and genial friend.
05/03/1877
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Peter Freeland Aiken
DEATH OF MR P. F. AIKEN
We regret to announce the death of Mr P. F. Aiken which took place somewhat suddenly on Saturday last, at his residence, Wallcroft House, Durdham Park. Mr Aiken was 78 years of age. For about forty years he was manager of the Bristol branch of Stuckey's Bank, and a director of the company. A few years ago he gave up the management, but retained his place as a director, although for some time past his health had been rather delicate.
Mr Aiken will be remembered in Bristol for his generous sympathy with local progressive movements. He represented Clifton Ward in the Town Council many years ago, and he was in 1846 one of the four vice-presidents of the Free Port Association, his colleagues being Mr Daniel Cave, Mr Geo. Henry Ames, and Mr Edward Thomas. Mr Aiken inherited a literary taste and was a man of culture, as may be gathered from his admirable address at the Centenary of Burns, held in Bristol on the 25th January, 1859, and also from his recently published work, "Memorials of Robert Burns". It was to Robert Aiken, the grandfather of the deceased, that Burns dedicated the "Cotter's Saturday Night"; and to his father,Andrew Hunter Aiken, that Burns addressed his famous "Epistle to a Young Friend". This "young friend" married the eldest daughter of Mr Peter Freeland, merchant, of Liverpool - hence the name of the deceased, Peter Freeland Aiken. Mr P. F. Aiken, before he settled in Bristol, was an Advocate in Edinburgh. He married Constance Elizabeth Chetwood, only child of Captain Chetwood, and has left five children and seventeen grandchildren. In his day the deceased did useful work for this city, and the announcement of his death will be read with regret far outside the circle of his immediate personal friends.
27/12/1880
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr James Flower Fussell
DEATH OF MR JAMES FLOWER FUSSELL
Few men in Bristol were better known, and not any more generally esteemed, than this excellent and generous gentleman whose death occurred, after a long illness, on Saturday morning at Abbot's Leigh. Dr. Fox was medical attendant of the deceased gentleman. Mr Fussell had for many years been the senior partner in an eminent legal firm formerly carried on by Messrs Savery and Clarke, then by Mr Clarke and Mr Fussell, and recently conducted under the name of Fussell, Prichard, Swann, and Henderson. His three partners were all connected with him by marriage, Mrs Fussell being a sister of Mr C. J. Prichard, and two junior partners having each married daughters of Mr Fussell. Not long since Mr Fussell lost his second son, Henry, to whom he was much attached, and the death affected him greatly. His eldest son, James, is a captain in the Bristol Rifle Corps, but resides chiefly in London, and another son, Thomas, who is usually at home, is not in any profession. Mr Fussell, in personal appearance, was the picture of amiability, and his worth agreed with his looks. He was one of the few men of sterling character who never makes enemies. By his family he was beloved with more than ordinary affection, and a large circle of friends will mourn his loss with more than common formality. Mr Fussell recently showed signs of age, and his figure gave the idea of more years than he had really attained. We believe he was in his sixty-fourth year, but till his last illness he was one of the first men at business in the morning and one of the last to leave. The firm to which he belonged were solicitors to the Bristol and West of England Bank, the Water Works, the Cemetery Company, the Avonside Engine Company, and many other important corporations. When the Bristol and Exeter Railway was an independent company, Messrs Fussell and Co. were their legal advisors, and the head of the firm usually attended to their affairs in person. The Bristol and South Wales Union Railway Company was another company to which the firm were solicitors, and they assisted in its formation.
26/10/1882
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Robert Carpenter
DEATH OF MR ROBERT CARPENTER
We regret to announce the death of Mr Robert Carpenter, Town Councillor for the District Ward, which took place suddenly yesterday afternoon. The deceased had attended a meeting of the Watch Committee, of which he was a member, and afterwards kept an appointment he had made with a gentleman who wished to rent a house of him in New Jamaica Street. He went there and completed his arrangement with the tenant, and was about to leave the house, when he suddenly staggered and fell back into the gentleman's arms. A cab was procured, and he was conveyed to his residence, Rokeby House, Cheltenham Road, and Dr Taylor, the medical man who lived nearest, was immediately sent for. Almost as soon as Dr Taylor arrived Mr Carpenter expired. There is little doubt that death resulted from heart disease. Mr Carpenter, until the last month or two, had been remarkably healthy. He was chairman of the Colston Building Society, in Small Street, and did not attend the monthly meeting of directors for October; but at the September meeting he appeared slightly unwell, and remarked that the society would have to do without much aid from him during the winter, as he intended giving up some of his engagements. He was about 67 years of age, and had devoted himself for many years to business. When a young man he was employed as clerk at Harford's brass and copper works in Small Street, where the post office now stands. Afterwards he carried on trade in Broad Street as a cloth merchant, but he relinquished his business some years ago. He had taken an active share in municipal matters for the last fifteen years. An ardent Liberal in politics, he was treasurer of the District Ward Committee, who, on a vacancy occurring in the representation in the Town Council, nominated him to fill the post. He was opposed by Mr Henry Naish, whom he defeated after a severe contest, there being only a majority of a few votes. Since then Mr Carpenter has remained one of the representatives of that ward. Though he seldom spoke in the Council, he was a very useful member, and did good service on committees, being rarely absent, unless he was compelled to be away from Bristol. He was a member of the Finance, Streets Improvement, and Watch Committees. He was a director of the City Hotel Company, and guardian of the poor for the District in the Barton Regis Union. At one time he acted as commissioner for the district, but resigned this office a few years ago. He will be much missed at St. Andrew's Church, where he had been a constant attendant. He subscribed £5 towards the window to be placed as a memorial to the late Mr A. W. Pillers; and when the Rev. C. J. Clarke was vicar, and wished to make an addition to the schoolroom at a cost of £100, Mr Carpenter promptly collected the amount. The deceased had been twice married, his second wife, who survives him, being Miss Yeo, a member of a well-known North Devon family. He leaves four children, three sons and one daughter. One of his sons is a solicitor, and a few years ago entered into partnership with Mr William Benson, to whom he was articled.
27/09/1882
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev J. W. Reeve
DEATH OF CANON REEVE
We regret to announce the death of the Rev. J. W. Reeve, Canon of Bristol and Chaplain in Ordinary to the Queen, which took place yesterday afternoon at his residence at Sneyd Park, near Bristol. Canon Reeve was the only son of Mr Benjamin Reeve, of Wangford Hall, near Beccles, in Suffolk, and was born in 1807. He was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he took the degree of B.A. in 1830, and M.A. in 1842. He was appointed to the incumbency of Portman Chapel, Baker Street, in 1847, and for nearly thirty years was well-known in connection with the Low Church party as an earnest and eloquent preacher. In 1872 he was made an honorary chaplain, and in 1873 a Chaplain-in-Ordinary to the Queen. In 1875 he was presented by Lord Cairns, the then Lord Chancellor, which he held up to his death. He resigned the incumbency of Portman Chapel in 1877, and has since then lived a more or less retired life. It may be mentioned that the Portman Chapel Voluntary Schools, which were founded and organised by Canon Reeve in one of the lowest parts of the district of which he took charge in Marylebone parish, continue to compete successfully with the School Board schools; and, as an instance, we may add that Mr R. Barker, whose education was commenced in the Portman Chapel Schools, is at this moment a foundation scholar of Trinity College, Cambridge. Canon Reeve was highly respected, and although, owing to his advanced age, he has not taken a prominent part in public affairs during recent years, he enjoyed in his retirement the esteem of a large circle of friends, who will hear of his death with unfeigned regret.
13/09/1882
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Taylor
DEATH OF MR HENRY TAYLOR
We regret to announce the death of Mr Henry Taylor, which took place at his residence, Redcliff House, College Road, Clifton, at 6.30 last evening. As a partner in the firm of Taylor and Low Bros., timber merchants, Cumberland Road, Mr Taylor, who was about 53 years of age, was well known in commercial circles, where his courteous disposition and business ability gained him universal respect. A memento of his kindly nature remains in the Cabman's Rests, in the movement for the erection of which he took an active and leading part, the first shelter opened in Bristol being his gift. For some years past Mr Taylor was in the habit of giving a Christmas dinner to a number of the aged inhabitants of Hotwells, and his loss will be sincerely felt by those who have so often enjoyed his hospitality. In December, 1874, he was elected one of the representatives of the ward of Clifton to fill a vacancy caused by the death of Mr Isaac Allen Cooke, which position he has since held. In 1879 he was elected to the office of Mayor of Bristol, and in 1881 he was appointed a justice of the peace. He was chairman of the Grand Hotel Company, and was a member of the Executive Council of the Chamber of Commerce in 1870, and in 1874 he was chairman of the chamber. In 1879 he was chosen a member of the Executive Council of the Associated Chambers of Commerce of the United Kingdom. From 1875 he attended all the annual and autumnal meetings of the association, and during his mayoralty he formed one of the deputation to the autumnal meeting at Galashiels and Hawick.
14/06/1883
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Edwards
DEATH OF MR CHARLES EDWARDS, OF WRINGTON
It is with a regret which will be shared by a large number of persons in the county of Somerset that we announce the death of Mr Charles Edwards, of The Grove, Wrington. The deceased gentleman had with his accustomed activity taken part in the meeting of the Wrington Vale and West Mendip Sheep Shearing Society at Yatton a week ago and made a speech at the dinner. He also attended an agricultural gathering on Friday, but he was taken ill on arriving home and lingered till Tuesday night, when he expired. It is stated that the disease from which he suffered was pleurisy. Mr Edwards married Miss Fry, a lady who is a member of a highly-respectable family having estates in the neighbourhood of Axbridge, and he leaves a son, Mr C. L. F. Edwards, magistrate for the county, and two daughters. The deceased gentleman, who was a justice of the peace for Somerset, was formerly in business in Bridge Street, Bristol, as a wine merchant, with Mr George Wills, of this city; and before then he was in a similar business in another part of Bristol. For some time he resided at Brockley Court, and then removed to The Grove, at Wrington. Mr Edwards was chairman of the finance committee of the court of quarter session in Somerset, was chairman of the East Somerset Conservative Association, and an active member of the council of the Bath and West of England Agricultural Society.
He took a great deal of interest in ecclesiastical matters, and gave large sums towards the restoration of Cheddar and Axbridge churches. He will be especially missed by the agriculturists of East Somerset, with whom he was deservedly popular, and in public and private life he was justly esteemed for his many sterling qualities.
26/12/1885
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr T. Tod Walton
DEATH OF MR T. TOD WALTON
We regret to announce the death of Mr T. Tod Walton, of Maperton House, near Wincanton, which occurred somewhat suddenly yesterday morning at the Clifton Down Hotel. Mr and Mrs Tod Walton had been staying in Clifton for about ten days, and up to Thursday he appeared to be in his usual health. Yesterday, it being his intention to attend the early service at All Saints' Church, he was called about seven o'clock, and Mrs Tod Walton then discovered that her husband was not well. Finding that he remained in an insensible condition, she sent for Dr Grig Smith, who pronounced his condition to be most critical, and at ten o'clock he died, the cause of death being said to be apoplexy. Mr and Mrs Tod Walton took a deep interest in the churches of All Saints and St. Mary, Tyndall's Park to both of which they have been munificent donors. The deceased leaves two sons and a married daughter. He was formerly postmaster of Bristol, and once served the office of High Sheriff for this city. He displayed cultured taste, and was especially interested in archaeological matters.
13/11/1886
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Francis Fry
FRANCIS FRY
The death of Mr Francis Fry removes from amongst us a citizen whose family name is a household word in Bristol, and who was himself personally as well known as he was highly esteemed. Mr Fry had reached the age of eighty-three. During his whole life he had been identified with the commercial and philanthropic interests of this city, and although for some time past his failing health had removed his familiar figure from our streets, his marked idiosyncrasy and his kindly manner will be long remembered. Mr Fry had more than a local reputation. His collection of ancient Bibles is said to be one of the most complete extant, and he did not resolve them as a hidden treasure, but at great expense he reproduced some of the most curious and valuable for the benefit of others who, like himself, felt a deep interest in the early editions of the Scriptures. His reproduction in fac-simile of the first New Testament printed in the English language was a very important undertaking, and a bona fide addition to the bibliographic resources of our time. The same may be said of his "Description of the Great Bible, 1539, and the Six Editions of Cranmer's Bible"; and also of "The Bible by Coverdale", which Mr Fry published about twenty years ago. The value of Mr Fry's work in this direction can hardly be estimated without a full knowledge of the difficulties which these and other kindred reproductions entailed. Mr Fry's extensive acquaintance with the interesting object which occupied so much of the leisure of his busy life was the result of a special enthusiasm which ultimately caused his name to be associated in all parts of the world with the Early English Bibles and Testaments. Mr Fry was one of the older citizens of Bristol, of whom so many have recently passed away, and he was consequently more closely connected with our local life some years ago than he had been recently passed away, and he was consequently more closely connected with our local life some years ago than he had been recently; but the announcement we make today will nevertheless be read with that sincere regret which is always felt whenever the death of a good man has to be recorded.
05/11/1886
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Major Charles Castle
DEATH OF MAJOR CASTLE
We regret to announce the death of Major Charles Castle, who was during many years an active magistrate for Lawford's Gate Division. The deceased gentleman resided at Frome Lodge, Stapleton, and on Wednesday he seemed in his usual health, and went to Lawford's Gate Court House for the purpose of transacting some business. He returned home and dined, and there was nothing unusual in his appearance till about eleven o'clock at night, when he was seized with an epileptic fit. Mr E. Crossman, of Hambrook, his medical attendant, was at once sent for, and he remained at Frome Lodge during the night. Major Castle did not recover power of speech, but he was able to recognise his wife and daughter. Yesterday morning Mr Crossman saw that there was no hope of the recovery of his patient, but Dr Shingleton Smith was called in for consultation in the afternoon. The deceased gentleman lingered till between four and five o'clock, when he expired. His sudden death caused much grief in Stapleton, where he had commanded general respect by the energetic manner in which he assisted in the management of local matters. He was always ready to give advice in cases of difficulty, and many persons consulted him with respect to their private affairs. A gentleman with whom he had been engaged at Lawford's Gate Court House on the previous day called yesterday afternoon to complete the business, and was greatly shocked to learn the sad event. Major Castle, who was about seventy years of age, was a younger brother of Mr Michael Castle, of Clifton, who went to Frome Lodge on hearing of the critical state of the deceased. Lady Bowring, widow of Sir John Bowring, is a sister. Major Castle leaves a wife and daughter. He was formerly in practice in Bristol as a solicitor. He had a commission in the militia, and during the Crimean War his regiment was called out for service at Pembroke. During the Indian Mutiny the regiment was again embodied, and he did service with it at Athlone. He was a consistent Liberal, and was for a long period rarely absent from the annual dinners of the Anchor Society where he used to respond on behalf of the auxiliary forces. He acted for some time as chairman of Stapleton Local Board, and was chairman of the directors of the Royal Hotel Company. A few years ago he met with an accident, having been thrown from his vehicle on Stapleton Road while driving to Lawford's Gate, and he never thoroughly recovered from the effects of the fall, by which his left leg was fractured.
08/06/1886
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Samuel Derham
DEATH OF MR SAMUEL DERHAM
We regret to announce the death of Mr Samuel Derham, of Henleaze Park, Westbury-on-Trym, who until recently was a member of the firm of Messrs Derham Bros., wholesale boot and shoe manufactures, of this city. The deceased gentleman, who was in his 70th year, was born at Wrington. He served an apprenticeship in Bristol with Mr Nathaniel Lomas, printer, in Castle Street, and afterwards went to London, where he was employed on the Mark Lane Express and other journals. Though possessing little or no knowledge of the boot trade, he, in conjunction with his brother, Mr James Derham, forty years ago laid the foundation of the extensive business in St. James's Barton. Their beginning was at Wrington, and subsequently the headquarters were shifted to Bristol, where magnificent progress rewarded the perseverance of the brothers. Mr Samuel Derham, with his son, retired from the firm at the end of 1885. He took a deep personal interest in political meetings and questions affecting the city's welfare, but was of a retiring disposition, and rarely occupied a prominent place in public movements. For several years he had been one of the justices for Bristol, and was most regular in discharging the duties of this position. He had a fondness for scientific pursuits, particularly botany, and the last gathering he attended was a meeting of the directors of the Museum and Library in Queen's Road. That was on Thursday. On Friday morning while at breakfast he was seized with paralysis; he rallied and went into the garden, but the attack was repeated with added force, and he became unconscious. Death took place shortly after six o'clock yesterday morning. Mr Derham was highly esteemed wherever he was known. He leaves a widow and a married son. Before the business at the police court commenced yesterday, reference was made to the sad event. The magistrates present at the time were Mr Herbert Thomas, Mr Mark Whitwill, Mr W. Hathway, Mr J. A. Jones, and Mr J. Lysaght; and Mr Thomas, senior magistrate, said: We have just ascertained with great sorrow that our worthy colleague, Mr Samuel Derham, has been suddenly called away into eternity - that he died this morning soon after six o'clock. I am sure that all who, like myself, have had the privilege of sitting with him here valued the unusually good qualities which he possessed as a magistrate. In him were united the qualities of a good, sound judgment, strong common sense, and a good character and a good life, which are so essential to those who sit on the bench. I desire to express in a few words in this way the esteem which I felt for him, and which I am sure was shared by each one of his colleagues; and, like myself, I am sure they would like to express their sympathy with the deceased's widow and his son on such a distressing occasion to them. Mr T. Holmes Gore (magistrate's clerk) said he would forward this expression of sympathy to Mrs Derham. He need not say that he very much regretted the sad event, and that he valued the services which the deceased rendered there with so much satisfaction.
17/05/1886
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. John Bryant Clifford
DEATH OF THE REV. J. B. CLIFFORD
We regret to announce the death, on Saturday night, at an advanced age, of the Rev. John Bryant Clifford, at his residence, 2, Hillside, Redland Green. The deceased was vicar of St. Matthew's, Kingsdown, for many years, and resigned the living in 1879, when the Rev. W. B. Doherty, the present incumbent, was presented by the Simeon Trustees. Mr Clifford, who was M.A. of Cambridge University, was ordained deacon in 1831, and priest in the following year, by the Bishop of Winchester. He was curate at St. Stephen's, Bristol, with the late Rev. H. G. Eland. After his appointment to St. Matthew's he distinguished himself by the ability with which he entered into the discussion of controversial topics, and took a prominent part in some matters that greatly interested the religious world. He was an impressive preacher, and his discourse on prophecy attracted large congregations. He has left several children, one son the Rev. Alfred Clifford, being a member of the Barton Regis Board of Guardians. Yesterday the flag on St. Matthew's tower was at half mast, and the Rev. W. B. Doherty in his sermon in the morning made a feeling allusion to the death of his predecessor.
26/01/1886
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Henry Criddle
DEATH OF MR HENRY CRIDDLE
It is with much regret will read the death of this gentleman in this morning's obituary. Mr Criddle was a partner in Messrs Stuckey's Banking Company, and had been forty-one years in their Bristol branch occupying during the latter portion of his career an important and confidential position. The special duties of Mr Criddle's appointment made him exceptionally well known out of doors, and his great tact and good address won him many friends. Mr Criddle was wholly devoted to his work, and allowed himself little relaxation, but some years ago he held a commission in the Bristol Rifle Corps, and was known as one of the best shots in that battalion, which had produced so many excellent marksmen. Although his medical attendant had advised him to lessen his work Mr Criddle believed his strength much greater than it proved, and was at the bank as usual on Friday, dining at the St. Vincent's Rocks Hotel, where he was a permanent resident, the same evening. His death occurred on Saturday, and was therefore very sudden. Mr Criddle was unmarried, but leaves a brother, who has also been for many years at Messrs Stuckey's Bristol bank.
06/12/1887
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Spark
DEATH OF MR WILLIAM SPARK
We regret to announce that Mr Wm. Spark died on Sunday evening at his residence, 15, Apsley Road, Clifton, after a somewhat protracted illness. Mr Spark, who was 75 years of age, formerly took a practical interest in the trade and commerce of the city, but latterly, owing to failing health, he had been unable to take part, except to a very limited extent, in public affairs. He was many years ago in business in College Green as a silk mercer and draper. He came to Bristol some years ago from Exeter, and entered into partnership with Mr Bucknell, who was a mercer carrying on a flourishing trade in College Green, nearly opposite St. Augustine's Church. Afterwards the business was removed to premises near the Mayor's Chapel, where it was also conducted successfully. Mr Bucknell, besides being a mercer of repute, was noted for his skill as a florist, and at one time he resided on Alfred Hill. He left Bristol, but Mr Spark carried on the business in College Green for some time afterwards. He retired several years ago. As a representative of the ward of St. Augustine in the Town Council, Mr Spark took part in several important local movements. He was chairman of the Streets Improvement Committee, and his business capacity and aptitude were also of considerable service to the Sanitary Authority, of which he was at one time a prominent member. In appreciation of his invaluable services in promoting the welfare of the city, he was elected as an alderman, but in November, 1886, in consequence of indisposition, he resigned this position. He was also a magistrate for the city, and was interested in several local companies, having been chairman of the Bristol Gas Company and the College Green Hotel Company. Mr Spark, who, it will be remembered, was the father-in-law of the late Hugh Conway (Mr Frederick Fargus), was widely known and esteemed, and his death removes from local circles one who was remarkable for a genial and sympathetic disposition, courteous demeanour, and exceptional business capabilities.
At the Bristol police court yesterday morning, Mr George Wills said he would like to express the deep regret which he and his brother magistrates felt at the loss of one of their colleagues, who had filled the office of magistrate for many years with great distinction. He alluded to Mr William Spark, who, unfortunately, succumbed on Sunday night after a long illness.
The funeral will take place on Thursday afternoon. There will be a service at Emmanuel Church, Clifton, at three o'clock, and the interment will be at Arno's Vale at 4.15.
26/09/1887
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir William Vernon Guise, Bart.
DEATH OF SIR W. V. GUISE, BART.
Sir William Vernon Guise, Bart., of Elmore Court, died on Saturday morning. He had been in failing health for some time, but had not been confined to his house until within the last week or two. Few men in the county were better known. He was recognised as a leader of the Liberal party, and has taken an active part in political matters for the last thirty years, and was a trenchant and able speaker. He was also the founder of the Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society, and one of its chief members. Many years ago he succeeded the late Mr Barwick Baker as president of the Cotteswold Naturalists' Club, and this office he held until a few months ago, when he resigned with regret, stating that he felt no longer able to take part in the field work of the association. Sir William was a man of high attainments as a geologist, a naturalist, and an antiquarian. He spent a few of the earlier years of his life in the army, and when the volunteer force was formed, now nearly thirty years ago, he became captain of the Gloucester Dock Rifles, a company which under him attained such high efficiency that its challenge to any other company in England for a competition in drill remained unaccepted. He was also for some years colonel-commandant of the Royal South Gloucester Militia, a post which he resigned when the head-quarters were removed to Horfield. Sir William was also a deputy-lieutenant and magistrate for Gloucestershire, and had served the office of high sheriff. He was the fourth baronet of the present creation, and is succeeded by his eldest son, Major William Guise, of the 3rd Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment (Royal South Gloucester Militia), who married, three weeks ago, Miss Octavia Coope, daughter of the late Mr Coope, M.P. Lady Guise, two sons, and three or four daughters, survive the late baronet. Sir William Guise was for many years chairman of the magistrates at the Gloucester county petty sessional court, and at the session on Saturday Dr Ancrum, who presided, paid a tribute to his memory as an upright magistrate, whose death was a loss to his county.
25/11/1890
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Edward Burges
DEATH OF MR EDWARD BURGES
We regret to announce the death of Mr Edward Burges, solicitor, of this city. Mr Burges was born on the 7th November, 1815, and was the third son of Mr Daniel Burges, who held the office of Town Clerk of Bristol from the passing of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1835, until 1849. Mr Edward Burges and the late Mr Henry Brice were, in 1840, appointed joint clerks to the committee entrusted by the Corporation with the carrying into operation the Bristol Improvement Act passed in that year, and, after the resignation of Mr Brice in 1853, Mr Burgess continued sole clerk until he himself resigned office in November, 1865.
During the long period of 27 years in which Mr Burges was concerned for this committee a great number of very important city improvements were carried out. Mr Burges married the daughter of the late Mr William Perry, who survives him. He also leaves four daughters, namely, Mrs Salway, Miss D. J. Burgess, Mrs Lloyd, and Mrs O'Brien, and a son, Mr P. Burges. Mr Burges practised as a solicitor in Bristol for upwards of 53 years, and was on the roll of solicitors at the time of his death. His family have been, as is well known, intimately connected with this city for many generations. He was a large owner of property in the city of Bristol, and was well known as being one of the best judges of the value of property in Bristol and its neighbourhood. He was a man who was an ardent sportsman, and up to a comparatively recent period hunted regularly with the Beaufort and Berkeley hounds and was a member of the Berkeley Hunt. Many of our older sporting readers will remember him as one of the best riders to hounds that have been seen in this part of England. He was intensely fond of all sports and athletics, and was in his younger days a magnificent shot, good runner, oarsman, racquet player, and boxer, and in fact excelled in all athletic pursuits. In spite of his sporting propensities he was a man who conducted a very successful business as a solicitor. He has suffered for the last few years from heart disease and had to give up hunting. He was well aware of the serious nature of his complaint, and also that the end would be sudden. He had been unwell for the last few days, and only returned from shooting in Shrewsbury last week. He was busy all Saturday riding about his farm and property, and passed a good night. He was seized early in the morning with an attack of angina pectoris, with fatal results.
04/09/1890
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Thomas
DEATH OF MR WILLIAM THOMAS
We regret to announce the death of Mr William Thomas, who was chiefly known to the inhabitants of Bristol by his exertions upon the Board of Guardians at St. Peter's Hospital. The deceased had for many years been in business upon the Welsh Back as a wharfinger and steampacket agent, and for a long time resided in Queen Charlotte Street with two sisters, he being unmarried. One of the ladies died about two months ago under distressing circumstances, and this affected him greatly. He attended service on Sunday night at St. Nicholas' Church, but feeling unwell left before the sermon was concluded. He had for some time suffered from an internal complaint, and this now assumed an aggravated form, so that on Tuesday night he expired, at the age of about 71 years. From the long time he had been a guardian Mr Thomas was known as "the father" of the board, and on account of the great interest he took in the paupers he was made chairman of the committee which sat to revise the list of outdoor poor. If he was possessed a failing it was in lending too ready an ear to the plea of poverty, and his sympathies were easily aroused by a tale of distress. He was once appointed governor of the Incorporation of the Poor, and made himself familiar with the routine of the poor law. Outside St. Peter's Hospital his relations were, to a great extent, confined to the parish of St. Nicholas. He was a member of the vestry, and had been churchwarden. His politics were most pronounced; he described himself as an uncompromising Conservative, and it was therefore no matter for surprise that he became an energetic member of the committee of the Dolphin Society. Mr Thomas outlived two brothers, one of whom, older than himself, had been secretary to the Western Wagon Company, and the other some years ago died from the effects of injuries received at a fire on the Welsh Back, at which he rendered great service.
07/07/1890
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Mills Baker
SUDDEN DEATH OF MR W. M. BAKER
It is with regret we have to announce the sudden death of Mr William Mills Baker, senior partner of the well-known firm of Baker, Baker, and Co., Wine Street. The deceased gentleman, who was about sixty years of age, was at business on Saturday morning, and then appeared to be in his usual health. In the afternoon he entertained a number of friends at a garden party at his residence, The Holmes, Stoke Bishop, and on Sunday morning he attended service at Stoke Bishop church. While the service was proceeding he was seized with what was at first thought to be a fainting fit, but the attack was of a more serious character, and death occurred almost immediately. The deceased was removed to his residence, and his regular medical attendant, Dr Lawrence, was summoned, but that gentleman was only able to confirm the sad fact. The cause of death was evidently heart disease. The late Mr Baker, who was one of the last group of magistrates added to the Bristol bench, was well known in commercial circles, and his loss will be severely felt among the employees of the firm, by whom he was greatly respected. The deceased gentleman, with his brother, Mr Thomas Baker, was at one time in the employ of Messrs Jones and Co., but leaving that establishment, the two brothers embarked in business for themselves, with the result that the present firm was built up. The late Mr W. M. Baker leaves a widow and several children, one of his sons being a member of the firm.
29/03/1890
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr W. Gale Coles
DEATH OF MR W. GALE COLES
A feeling of regret will be occasioned by the announcement of the death of Mr W. Gale Coles, which occurred yesterday afternoon. Mr Coles had been ill at his residence, Cleve Wood, Downend, for several weeks, and on Thursday his condition was deemed so critical it was scarcely thought he would live through another day. Probably this fear led to the report which was circulated yesterday afternoon that his death had taken place, for his decease did not occur until a couple of hours later. Mr Coles was a little over seventy years of age, and was a man widely known in Bristol and the adjoining counties. He had a long connection with Stuckey's Banking Company, and as director he had for many years taken a prominent part in the management. He was High Sheriff of Bristol in 1867-8, being succeeded in that office by Mr W. H. Miles; Mr Francis Adams was Mayor at the time. Though not very frequently taking part in political gatherings, he was an influential Conservative, and was president of the Dolphin Society in 1876. He was a justice of the peace for Somersetshire and Gloucestershire, and was often in attendance at the courts at long Ashton, where he was chairman, and Lawford's Gate. He took great interest in Church matters, and was treasurer for the Diocesan Training College at Fishponds. His widow and four grown-up children survive him.
01/03/1889
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Colonel Arthur Mowbray Jones
DEATH OF COL A. M. JONES
We regret to have to announce the death of Colonel Arthur Mowbray Jones, late commanding officer of the Bristol Rifle Volunteer Corps, which occurred very suddenly at his residence, Alexandra Road, Clifton, yesterday morning. The deceased officer, who was widely known and greatly respected in volunteer circles, held a commission for some five or six years in her Majesty's 75th and 27th Regiments of Foot, and served with the former for some little time in India. At the commencement of the Volunteer movement he joined the ranks of the Bristol Rifle Corps, then in course of formation, and was appointed Adjutant with the rank of Captain, being one of the first, if not the first adjutant gazetted to a volunteer regiment. After serving in that capacity for some years he was promoted to the rank of Major under Colonel Phillpotts Wright Taylor who was then the commanding officer. On the decease of Colonel Taylor, some nine or ten years ago Colonel Samuel Taylor, the senior major, was gazetted Colonel. Under his resignation of that position, after holding it for about two months, Colonel Jones was appointed commanding officer, which honourable post he held until some eighteen months ago, when, to the regret of those with whom he had been associated for so many years, he tendered his resignation. The late Colonel Jones was possessed of a fine, commanding presence and soldierly bearing, and his sudden death is a most unexpected blow to his family and friends. His age was about 63. On Wednesday afternoon he was at the Zoological Gardens, Clifton, in the management of which he took a deep interest, until six o'clock, and on arriving home appeared to be in his usual health. About one o'clock in the morning he was attacked with an apoplectic seizure, and Dr Board, of Caledonia Place, was at once sent for. He however, did not rally, and death ensued between three and four o'clock this morning. In addition to his volunteer duties, Colonel Jones had for many years interested himself in the management of the Zoological Gardens of which company he was a director and hon. secretary. An enthusiastic botanist, and an accepted authority in botanical circles, it was in a great measure owing to his care and attention the Zoological Gardens were so well kept. It may be mentioned that at the recent visit of the British Association to Bath the arrangement of the exhibition of ferns was entrusted to Colonel Jones.
During his lengthened connection with the Rifle Corps - upwards of 28 years - Colonel Jones gained the warm esteem and respect of the members. He had occupied an onerous position in relation to the corps not only as commandant, but also during his adjutancy and since he severed active connection with the volunteer force, he, in various ways, manifested a practical interest in its welfare. At the distribution of the prizes to the members of the Rifle Corps at the Drill Hall on December 3rd, 1887, Colonel Hill, M.P., referred to Colonel Jones's retirement, remarked that the city and the country owed that officer a deep debt of gratitude for the manner in which he had devoted himself to the service. "Though his breast was not covered with medals,"
Colonel Hill remarked, "Colonel Jones had done service none the less faithful and useful, and he doubted whether there was a soldier in the English army who could show a more useful record."
In acknowledging the expressions of regret, Colonel Jones thanked the officers for the support which they had given him, and added some useful advice to the corps, and expressed solicitude for its future welfare.
In consequence of the death of Col. Jones, the officers' mess dinner, which was fixed for to-night, will not take place.
26/07/1884
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Ebenezer Austin
SUDDEN DEATH OF MR E. AUSTIN
We deeply regret to announce the death of Mr Ebenezer Austin, one of the proprietors of the Clifton Chronicle, which took place suddenly yesterday morning, at his residence, Rodney Place, Clifton. Mr Austin had suffered from heart disease for some time past, and about twelve months ago, on the recommendation of his medical advisor, Dr Marshall, he gave up business for a time and went to Ilfracombe for the benefit of his health. The change effected a considerable improvement, and Mr Austin was able to continue to take an active part in the editorial work of his paper up to the last. He was in the city on Wednesday, and was then appearing in his usual health, and he got up yesterday morning with the intention of again going down to Bristol, but while in the act of dressing he was taken ill, and before medical assistance could be obtained he had expired. The news of Mr Austin's death came quite as a surprise to his many friends in the city, in which he was widely known and universally respected, and although he had attained the age of 65, but few judged him to be so old on account of his robust appearance and his energetic and systematic business habits. Mr Austin was born at Bath on the 3rd of October, 1818, and his father was connected with the editorial staff of the Bath Chronicle and the Bath and Cheltenham Gazette. He received his early education at a dame and adventure school at Bath, was subsequently a student at Mr Slatter's academy, and on leaving school he joined the Bath Mechanics' Institute, and became an ardent member of the elocution class. Left an orphan in 1830, he was apprenticed in the following year to Mr George Wood, the proprietor of the Bath and Cheltenham Gazette, and he joined the reporting staff of that paper on the 14th June, 1836. In 1848 he severed his connection with the Gazette, and took up his residence in Bristol, where he was appointed by Serjeant Stephen, the official shorthand writer to the Bristol District Court of Bankruptcy, of the proceedings of which he furnished reports to the Bristol papers. In 1855 he succeeded Mr W. Matthews as the correspondent of the Times, and this position he retained up to the time of his death.
Subsequently Mr Austin became connected with the Clifton Chronicle, which was founded by Mr J. Burbidge in 1850, and he was associated with Mr C. T. Bleeck in the management of that paper until April, 1864, when the chronicle passed into his hands. In 1861 the deceased took a prominent part in the formation of the Bristol Histrionic Club, of which he was the first president, and there was seldom a performance at which he was not present and for which he did not write an original address. He dramatised "The Pickwick Papers" for the club, and was a warm supporter of the movement initiated by the club for providing and supporting the Bristol and Clifton lifeboat, which is stationed at Lossiemouth, North Britain. Mr Austin was the author of "Stray Leaves from the Note Books of a Provincial Reporter", which appeared in the Chronicle some years ago, and has since been reprinted in a small volume entitled "Anecdotage".
On the 20th October, 1881, Mr Austin completed his fifty years' connection with the press, and advantage was taken of the occasion to present him with an illuminated address, to "mark the appreciation of the energy and integrity by which he had been distinguished in his professional career, as well as his personal worth and kindly characteristics". From his long connection with the press Mr Austin was widely known, and his death will be deeply lamented among a large circle of friends. His wife died about seven months ago, and he leaves a son - Mr Alfred Austin, who for the last few years has been associated with him as a partner in the business - three daughters, and an adopted niece.
18/07/1901
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Charles Nash
DEATH OF MR CHARLES NASH
It is with regret that we have to announce the death of Mr Charles Nash, at his residence, Leopold Road, St. Andrew's. It is some twelve or fourteen years since the deceased gentleman took an active part in municipal or social matters, but for a very long period he was a leading figure in the commercial and municipal life of our city, having represented the ward of St. Augustine for 35 years. Practically his last appearance in public was at the visit of the Mayor and Corporation to the new offices of the National Telephone Company, when, as chairman of the local directorate, Mr Nash was present, and spoke with much of his old freedom and spirit.
Mr Charles Nash was at an early period of his career initiated into questions respecting the trade of Bristol, as for some time he occupied a position in the office of Mr Robert Bright. He was led to perceive the disadvantages under which the city then laboured, and subsequently became an energetic member of the Free Port Council. While a young man he joined Mr J. A. Jones in the business of timber merchants, and soon the firm of Jones and Nash acquired that position of eminence it has since maintained. The father of the deceased, Mr J. E. Nash, represented the ward of St. Augustine in the Town Council, and in 1851 Mr Charles Nash succeeded him, continuing to represent the ward until the 9th of November, 1886, when he was elected alderman, and Mr J. Walls became councillor for St. Augustine's in his stead. At the time of his death Mr Nash was father of the Council, and during many years he performed good service on various committees. For a long time he acted as chairman of the Docks Committee, a position which he relinquished when he found the interests of the Channel Dock Company, of which he became chairman, clashed with his duties towards the citizens. The warm interest which he experienced in the port of Bristol led him to accept a post of responsibility in the Bristol Steam Navigation Company, though subsequently he ceased to take part in the control of the company. Gentle and unobtrusive in disposition, the deceased gentleman took a great interest in the church work of the diocese, and as a member of the Diocesan Conference he lent much assistance to Bishop Ellicott when head of the diocese of Gloucester and Bristol. He was especially zealous in all that concerned St. Peter's, Clifton Wood, of which he was made churchwarden when the original building was converted from a Wesleyan chapel into a church. In politics Mr Charles Nash was a Conservative. He married Miss Wilson, a Bristol lady, who resided at Queen's Parade, but has been dead many years. Mr Nash leaves several children. His brother, Mr Joseph Haynes Nash is well-known in connection with some important commercial undertakings. the late Mr Nash, who was for a number of years one of the magistrates for the city, was also president of the Chamber of Commerce in 1874, succeeding in that office the late Sir Philip Miles, who had held the post of president of the local chamber for the long period of 15 years. He was a member of the directorate and chairman of the Western Counties and South Wales Telephone Company, and when that concern was acquired by the National Telephone Company, he became chairman of the local directorate. Warmly interested in all which affected the welfare of the citizens, he took a deep interest in the movement for the introduction of free libraries in Bristol, and he seconded the resolution, moved by the late Sir Joseph D. Weston, submitted to the ratepayers at the Colston Hall in May, 1874, in favour of the adoption of the Free Libraries Act. Mr Nash retired from the aldermanship in October, 1888. Of late years he has been closely identified with the parish of St. Bartholomew, in which he held the position of lay reader.
The funeral will take place at Arno's Vale on Saturday.
15/04/1902
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Sharland
DEATH OF MR JOHN SHARLAND
Considerable regret will be caused by the announcement of the death of Mr John Sharland, who for six years served in the Council for St. Philip's North. Mr Sharland had taken a deep interest in labour questions, and although very few in the Council Chamber shared his views, his fellow members soon learned to appreciate the man and to listen with the greatest attention whenever he addressed them. Members of the Docks Committee particularly had opportunities of becoming acquainted with him, for he devoted much time to the work of that important department, and upon his withdrawal was the subject of an appreciatory reference by the chairman of the time, Ald. Proctor Baker. Mr Sharland was not a robust man, and it was ill-health which compelled him to sever his connection with the Council, and to cease taking the part in labour movements that otherwise would have been his. In March, 1900, he was presented with an address signed by the president (Mr F. Sheppard) and secretary (Mr J. Curle), of the Bristol Trades' Council, and also by representatives of the Bristol Branch of the Amalgamated Society of Engineers, and of Bristol Branch No. 2. This document was addressed "To our comrade John Sharland", and contained the following acknowledgment: "You have served the cause of labour well, and we unite in expressing our regret at the illness which compelled you to retire from the work you had at heart. The success which attended our efforts for social progress we feel are largely due to your ardent support and advocacy, and we are authorised to inscribe our names as a token of our admiration for the unflagging energies and sacrifices you have made on behalf of suffering humanity." Mr Sharland underwent an operation in London, and there was hope that he might be spared the ill-health of former years. Latterly, however, he has been the subject of a complication of ailments of an extremely trying character, and weakened by his maladies, he died from heart failure yesterday morning at Jubilee Road, St. George. He was 48 years of age, and leaves a widow and a son and daughter, both grown up. The funeral will take place on Saturday afternoon at Avon View Cemetery, St. George.
06/01/1909
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter William Hughes
DEATH OF MR W. W. HUGHES
We regret to announce the death of Mr Walter William Hughes, the well-known house and estate agent, of College Green, Bristol. Mr Hughes had been gradually sinking during the last two months, and his death, which occurred at his residence, Downfield Lodge, Clifton, yesterday morning, was not therefore unexpected. The deceased gentleman was well known in many circles, commercial, civic, and philanthropic. He was son of Mr Walter Hughes, who founded the business to which Mr W. W. Hughes succeeded. With the growth of the undertaking the premises were extended to their present dimensions.
Mr Hughes was born in Bristol in 1833, and was educated locally. He was elected as councillor for St. Michael's Ward in 1890, and served for 15 years, during which time he was particularly interested in the docks. He was a member of the Docks Committee, and an advocate of a forward policy. He was also a member of the Electrical Committee from the commencement of the work until his retirement from the Council in November 1905. He was mover of committees for the new Municipal Buildings and the Municipal Art Gallery, and taking a great interest in the Cabot Memorial movement, he placed the tablet which appears on St. Augustine's Bridge, under the auspices of the local Antiquarian Society. He was a member of the committee which carried out the erection of the Cabot Memorial Tower on Brandon Hill, and the author of a monograph on the discovery. He was associated with several religious movements, including the Religious Tract Society. He was a director and chairman of the College Green Hotel Company for 30 years. He was registrar and surveyor to the Dean and Chapter of Bristol and Cathedral.
The deceased, though a Liberal was elected representative of St. Michael's Ward on independent grounds, and so thoroughly did he satisfy the requirements of the ratepayers that he held his seat without opposition. A staunch Nonconformist, he was associated with Pembroke Congregational Church, Clifton, of which place of worship he was senior deacon. He was also Sunday School superintendent. As an ardent member of the Peace Society, he represented the Bristol Young Men's Society, in 1850, at the Peace Congress held in Frankfort-on-the-Main, and when at Frankfort he passed in the street the Austrian General Hayman, then on his way to London, where he did not get the usual hospitable reception at the hands of everybody. The workmen of Messrs Barclay, Perkins, and Co., set upon him in consequence of his having flogged women in Hungary when putting down the revolution there. At the Continental Peace Congress held some months ago, Mr Hughes was again a delegate, and was the only member of the Congress present who had attended in 1850.
A prominent feature of the deceased's business career was his connection with the Bristol and West of England and South Wales Permanent Building Society. His father, Mr Walter Hughes, was one of the first directors, and in conjunction with Mr John Lucas, Mr John Perry, Mr H. R. Fargus, Mr Thomas Danger, and a few others brought out the society. The first meeting was held at the office of Mr Danger, Bush Chambers, Corn Street, in May, 1850. Although not appointed a director till his father's death, in 1877, Mr W. W. Hughes assisted in the formation of the society. At one time father and son owned a cottage delightfully situated on the Wye, near Tintern, and there they spent much of their leisure time. After his father's death Mr W. W. Hughes retained his interest in the cottage for several years, though at length he disposed of it. He had been three times married, and his third wife predeceased him. He left five daughters (one of whom, Mrs Mackenzie, is on the Senate of the University of Wales) and three sons, two in partnership with him in College Green, and the other who took high honours at Cambridge University.
04/11/1890
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr William Mack
DEATH OF MR WILLIAM MACK
We regret to announce the death, at the age of 61 years, of Mr William Mack, at his residence, Chatley House, Limpley Stoke. The deceased gentleman who had for many years been connected with Bristol, where for some time he carried on business in Park Street as publisher and bookseller, was born at Clipstone, Northamptonshire, his father, who was minister of a Baptist congregation at that place, having been educated at the college belonging to the denomination in Stokes Croft, Bristol, and was a friend of the celebrated Rev. Robert Hall when the latter was pastor of Broadmead Chapel. The deceased was connected with journalism at Newcastle-on-Tyne, and after acting in the capacity of reporter he came to Bristol about 40 years ago, and started in business as a bookseller and stationer in Wine Street. Thence he removed to Park Street where he continued in business for about twenty-five years. He also had a publishing establishment in London. He was the originator and first publisher of the "Birthday Scripture Text Book", which has had an enormous sale in a large number of editions. Upwards of a million copies have been sold including editions in the French and Italian languages. Mr Mack was formerly connected in Bristol with the Congregational Church at Castle Green. A number of the worshippers there banded together and, after meeting for services for some time in the old workhouse buildings, Pennywell Road, on the site of the present Vestry Hall, sufficient funds were raised, largely through Mr Mack's exertions, for the building of the chapel and schools in Stapleton Road. Mr Mack's connection with this place of worship continued up to the time of his death. As long as he was able he conducted the Women's Bible Class, and had not resigned the position of leader of the class at the time of his death. He was treasurer of the Bristol City Mission for a number of years, and had been a constant friend of that movement. He was also treasurer of The Friend-in-Need Society. He took an active part in carrying out improvements in the Baptist Chapel at Limpley Stoke, where the later years of his life were spent. Mr Mack gave largely to religious and benevolent objects in an unostentatious manner, and he will be much missed in Congregational circles. He had always been a hard worker, and the strain during the past few years had told on his health. In May last he went to America, and on his return, feeling strengthened by the change, he paid a visit to Scotland, where, however, his illness took a turn for the worse. He lay ill at Newcastle-on-Tyne for a considerable time, and had been at Limpley Stoke since the end of September. His strength gradually declined, and he died at half-past four o'clock yesterday morning. Both London and Bristol businesses will continue to be carried on by his sons. Mr Mack has left a widow to mourn his loss.
02/10/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Lysaght
DEATH OF MR JOHN LYSAGHT
We regret to announce the death of Mr John Lysaght, which occurred yesterday morning at his residence at Springfort, Stoke Bishop. The deceased gentleman had been in ill health for some time, the cause of trouble being an affection of the throat, in regard to which he consulted experts in Bristol and London, but in spite of all that medical skill could accomplish, the malady has had a fatal termination. Mr Lysaght, who was a member of a well-known Irish family, from Mallow, County Cork, came to Bristol about forty years ago and commenced in the galvanised iron business, which was then in its infancy. He at first took premises in Temple Back but, subsequently, owing to the extension of the business, the St. Vincent's Iron Works in St. Philip's Marsh were acquired, where the undertaking was still further consolidated and extended. In order to secure an adequate supply of sheets of iron for galvanising, Mr Lysaght purchased the Swan Garden works at Wolverhampton, and at a later period he also acquired the Osier Bed works, which are now the largest sheet rolling mills in the world.
Following that enterprise, there was an extension of the Bristol works at Netham, where a new constructional department was opened, and spelter works were also established. The number of hands employed at Bristol was from 800 to 1,000, and there are probably more than that number engaged at the other concern mentioned. In 1881 the businesses were converted into a limited liability company under the title of "John Lysaght, Limited", but the shares were not offered to the public. Mr Lysaght was a justice of the peace for the city of Bristol, and he served the office of High Sheriff in 1882-3, during which period he suffered a severe bereavement in the death of Mrs Lysaght. There are three sons and three daughters. The eldest son, Mr F. Percy Lysaght, is a director of the company, and another son, Mr Gerald S. Lysaght, is also associated with the business. One of the daughters is the wife of Mr George de Lisle Bush. The deceased, who was in his 64th year, had a second residence at Hengrave, Suffolk.
Speaking at Russell Town, Congregational Church last evening, Sir William Henry Wills, M.P., referred to the sad event. He said he could not allow the occasion to pass without a reference to a loss which that neighbourhood had sustained that day in the death of one intimately associated with the business pursuits of East Bristol for many years. He referred to the death of Mr John Lysaght. Mr Lysaght and himself never saw eye to eye in some things, but he had always had a great regard for him as an honourable and upright man of business. He commenced in a small way of business, and he extended his industries until they were very far reaching. He was an employer of a great number of men, not only in Bristol, but in other parts of the kingdom. He had been associated with Mr Lysaght in the direction of important works, and had always regarded him as a man in whom the fullest confidence could be placed, and whose word was as good as his bond. He was sorry they had been deprived of an influence so beneficial in point of trade and so high in point of moral integrity.
15/02/1893
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Sir Charles Wathen
SUDDEN DEATH OF SIR CHARLES WATHEN
The intelligence that Alderman Sir Charles Wathen had died suddenly in the Council Chamber yesterday afternoon created a sensation as painful in the breasts of citizens as did the announcement of the sudden death of Mr James Ford at the Constitutional Club a few years ago, and the recent news that Judge Metcalfe had expired at the Guildhall while preparing to go to the bench. For some time past Sir Charles had complained of being unwell, and stated that he had pains in the region of the heart. There was a quarterly meeting of the Municipal Council yesterday, and just before noon, when the proceedings commenced, he was observed by Mr Cleverdon leaning against Lloyd's Bank in Corn Street. Mr Cleverdon accosted him, and jocularly asked if he was surveying anything. Sir Charles replied in the negative, and, pressing his left side, remarked that he felt severe pain. Before entering the Council House he told Mr Charles Wills that he did not feel very well. He took his seat in the Council Chamber, and sat on the front padded bench near where Alderman Low usually sits, that gentleman being absent through illness. Nothing unusual occurred during four hours, there being a long agenda, no fewer than twenty-two notices appearing upon the paper. As four o'clock approached Mr H. N. Abbot proposed that an adjournment should take place, and the remainder of the business remain over to a day to be fixed. This resolution was seconded, and was about to be put to the meeting by the Town Clerk, when Sir Charles Wathen rose and urged that before the Council separated a motion of which he had given notice might be considered; it was next in order and was of a pressing character. The subject was a proposal to permit space between the old Drawbridge and the Stone Bridge, now covered, to be the site of an industrial exhibition on a large scale similar to one held at the Drill Hall about eight years ago. Sir Charles Wathen felt considerable interest in this project, and so impressed many members of the Council with its importance that, upon the house dividing whether there should be an adjournment forthwith or that the subject should be debated, a majority expressed themselves in favour of discussing the proposition at once. There was a strong opposition on the part of some of the members of the Council to the space in question being utilised in the manner advocated by Sir Charles Wathen, and a meeting of the Fixed Bridge Committee was held on Monday to object to the scheme. The resolution was moved by Sir Charles in a straightforward speech, and he referred to points which should make the proposal favourably received. Alderman Dix, who was a prominent champion of the fixed bridge, spoke against the spot being used for an exhibition; and after him Mr W. Howell Davies spoke.
It being four o'clock no disposition was apparent to prolong the debate, but Mr George White, who had expressed himself adverse to the proposed site and favourable to the large open space in Baldwin Street being that where the exhibition should be held, was expected to address the house, and he rose and spoke. He had called in question the accuracy of some figures as to the sizes of the respective sites in Baldwin Street and the Drill Hall with adjoining premises where the last great show of the kind was located. Sir Charles now and then interposed, insisting upon the correctness of the measurements he had given, but nothing unusual was noticed till just before half-past four, when he fell from his seat. Mr Charles Wills was sitting near, and he at once rushed to his assistance, and Alderman Fox and Sir George Edwards, who were sitting on a side bench, also assisted, and they laid Sir Charles upon the floor. In an instant the chamber presented a scene of confusion. Members got up hurriedly from their seats, and with the Town Clerk, the treasurer, and the assistant clerk (Mr Sampson) strove to learn the nature of the seizure. Dr Cunningham, one of the councillors, was present, and he at once did all that medical skill could suggest, and some brandy and water having been obtained, a small quantity of the liquid was administered. Sir Charles breathed heavily, but seemed quite unconscious. Meanwhile another medical gentleman was sent for, and Dr. R. H. Baxter, of Barrow Lane, Barton Hill, arrived. It was however apparent that Sir Charles was beyond aid. The Mayor (Mr W. R. Barker) announced the meeting at an end, and with Alderman Fox drove to Ashley Down to break the intelligence of the seizure to Lady Wathen. Soon after their departure the two doctors announced life extinct. The body remained upon the carpet near a table at which the civic officials sit, and the members of the Council, having taken a last look at the remains, slowly retired. The sad intelligence of the tragic termination of the sitting soon spread through the centre of the city, and Mr F. W. Lewis, nephew of Sir Charles, who is a partner at the establishment in Broad Street, was fetched. Mr E. W. Coathupe, the chief constable (who is also a skilled medical practitioner), and Dr Pickering, of Berkeley Square, also arrived. The Mayor and Alderman Fox found Lady Wathen at home, and in half an hour they had returned with her to the Council House. She arrived ignorant of her husband's death, and before anyone could intervene had rushed up the staircase and gained access to the room where she beheld his lifeless remains. A most distressing scene was witnessed, and Lady Wathen stayed in the chamber for about ten minutes, when she was assisted downstairs in an almost prostrate condition. In addition to Mr F. W. Lewis, Mr R. Hill, and Mr W. Hill, partners in the firm of Wathen, Gardiner, and Company, visited the Council House, in company with Mr H. G. Doggett, Sir Charles's legal adviser. The body was removed to Ashley House, Ashley Down. Sir Charles was to have given a dinner there last night, having invited the officers from Horfield Barracks.
The deceased, who was 61 years of age, was connected with the wholesale and export clothing trade, and had for an ancestor Sir Samuel Wathen, of Stroud, whose son was Sir Paul Bagot, he having assumed that name. A large mill near Stroud was called "Paul Wathen's mill", and the deceased's father, one of the firm who owned it, subsequently came to Bristol, as the firm was dissolved. Mr Charles Wathen went into business in the cloth trade and subsequently removed to Castle Street, where he became acquainted with Mr Henry Gardiner, wholesale clothier, of Broad Street. They entered into business relations, and, as Mr Henry Gardiner had decided to leave a commercial pursuit, it was decided that Mr Wathen should join Mr Charles Gardiner in partnership. The union continued for many years, and the reputation of the firm of Wathen, Gardiner, and Co. became extensive. Mr Wathen, who had married Miss Chase, paid a visit to Australia, and while there succeeded in transacting considerable business for the Bristol house. From the year 1872 to the year 1887 he was the head of the business which is at present carried on by Mr Robert Hill, Mr F. W. Lewis, and Mr W. Hill. After the deceased left the firm he continued to make the office his head-quarters. He was twice married, being after the death of his first wife wedded to Miss Sexton, of Ashburton. He had three adopted daughters, one of whom is married to Mr Kossuth Robinson.
Mr Wathen became a member of the Town Council in 1877, when he was elected for St. Paul's Ward in succession to Mr Thomas Wedmore. He continued to represent the constituency until November, 1889, when he was elevated to the aldermanic bench in the place of Mr Charles Nash, who resigned. In 1884 he was elected Mayor in succession to Sir Joseph D. Weston, and he filled the office in a manner that sustained the dignity of the civic chair. He was again elected to be chief magistrate in the following year, 1885-1886. Sir George Edwards was asked to allow himself to be nominated in the succeeding year; but subsequently Alderman Wathen was chosen, and altogether he was Mayor of Bristol six times, to the gratification of his fellow citizens. He took an active part in the work of important Council committees, and at the time of his death was chairman of the Streets Improvement Committee, the Floods Committee, and the Committee of Visitors to the Lunatic Asylum. He was also vice-chairman of the Finance Committee. In politics he was a Liberal till 1886, when he became a Unionist.
Outside the Town Council, where he always had considerable influence, especially in matters of fiance, the deceased took an active part in many movements affecting the welfare of the city. The Triennial Musical Festival, which another Mayor, Sir George Edwards, supported with public spirit, found in Mr Wathen a no less earnest friend, who not only interested himself in its success, but with the Mayoress received the large choir at the Mansion House. When the autumn session of the Baptist Union was held in Bristol he gave a reception to the President, the delegates, and their friends, and leading citizens at the Colston Hall; about 3,000 persons were invited. It was a well-known fact that he showed great liberality in connection with the Baptist Missions and one of the African stations on the Congo bears his name. When the United Presbyterian Church was formed in Bristol he became one of its strongest supporters and remained attached to it during the pastorate of the late Rev. Matthew Dickie. Afterwards he became connected with the Baptist denomination, though subsequent to becoming Mayor he felt a great regard for the Church of England, and for some years was a regular attendant at St. Mark's, College Green. He was a liberal contributor to the Cathedral Restoration and Bristol Bishopic Fund; and the thoroughness with which the restoration of the Mayor's Chapel was carried out a year or two ago was owing in a large measure to his generous support. When the Bath and West of England Society came to Bristol the council and friends found generous treatment from him, and the Indian and Colonial visitors, after a banquet in their honour at the Mansion House, and the ball which followed at the Victoria Rooms, were so impressed with the magnificent hospitality of the ancient city that they marked in a special manner their sense of this reception and sent a handsome gift, which Mr Wathen presented to the city, to be retained at the Mansion House. The important part he took in connection with the erection of the Queen's statue in College Green, and the reception and entertainment of Prince Albert Victor on the occasion of his visit to unveil the statue are not likely to be soon forgotten. On the 1st of January, 1890, the Marquis of Salisbury forwarded a letter to Mr Wathen stating that he was authorised to inform him that the Queen was pleased to confer upon him the honour of Knighthood, in recognition of the services which he had rendered to the city of Bristol during his mayoralty. One of the latest public acts of Sir Charles was to announce his intention of assisting in the Museum and Library in Queen's Road being handed over free of debt to the city, which meant a gift by himself of about £3,000. A short time ago he purchased Cook's Folly, and planned extensive alterations in order to adapt it for his residence. He had of late given up many engagements of a public character; and only two days ago, in reply to a communication from the Rev. A. N. Blatchford, who is president of the Cambrain Society, he wrote a courteous letter announcing that he had given up attending public dinners. Mr Doggett, the coroner, was made acquainted with the sudden death of Sir Charles Wathen, but he stated that there was no necessity for an inquest, as the medical evidence showed death to be attributable to syncope.
07/11/1895
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Rev. Caldicott
DEATH OF MR CALDICOTT
We regret to have to record the death, at the age of 66, of the Rev. Dr. Caldicott, whose sudden indisposition on Sunday was followed by symptoms of a very serious nature. He was for some time unconscious, and early yesterday morning expired. It is now twelve years since Dr Caldicott left Bristol, and the younger generation have little knowledge of the prominence he occupied in a variety of departments of civic life. He was a Birmingham man, educated at King Edward's Grammar School in that town, and continuing his studies at Jesus College, Oxford University, where he took his degree with honours. The story of his appointment to the Bristol Grammar School is well and briefly told by Mr John Latimer, from whose Annuals of Bristol we quote it.
"During the spring of 1859 the local Charity Trustees entered into correspondence with the Charity Commissioners in reference to certain proposed alternations in the scheme under which the Grammar School was governed. Although the success of the school since its re-organisation exceeded all hopes, yet, through the slenderness of the endowment, the head-master and teaching staff had been inadequately remunerated for their labours. It was consequently suggested that the fees paid by the elder class of boys should be slightly raised, that admission should not be restricted to youths residing in the city and suburbs, and that the head and second masters should be allowed to take boarders. The last mentioned proposal was strongly condemned by a minority of the trustees; and, though approved by the Charity Commissioners, the Master of the Rolls, on an appeal for his interference, refused to give it his sanction. Mr C. T. Hudson, the head-master, in consequence, resigned his post in May, 1860. He was succeeded by the Rev. J. W. Caldicott, M.A., tutor and mathematical lecturer at Oxford University, under whom the school attained an unexampled reputation, the successes of its pupils in competitive examinations being in some years proportionally greater than in any other public school. Dr Caldicott resigned his post in 1883, on being appointed to the valuable college living of Shipston, Worcester. He was succeeded by Mr R. Leighton M.A., who had taken high classical honours at Oxford."
When Dr Caldicott became master of the Grammar School it was of course carried on in the old buildings at the corner of Unity Street and Denmark Street, the site now occupied by that fine home of technical instruction - The Merchant Venturers' College. There were at that time 170 boys in the school, and the staff consisted of nine masters. Under Dr Caldicott's superintendence the school grew in reputation, importance, and in usefulness. Its transference to its splendid new headquarters in Tyndall's Park occurred in 1879 and by that time the students had increased exactly a hundred and the staff had grown to 14 masters. The move was one of the important epochs in the history of the old institution, and the scheme was the outcome of an immense deal of thought and care on the part of the governors and the head-master. The opening day was Saturday, May 17th, 1879, and it was made memorable by the presence and speech of one who was mainly instrumental in changing the whole aspect of elementary education in this country - the Right Hon. W. E. Forster. To an audience which crowded the great hall he spoke long on his favourite topic, education, and having stated that he had been making inquiries about the school he congratulated the fathers and mothers of Bristol on its possession. Its excellence was proved, he reminded them, by the honours and results which had been attained in competition at the Universities and elsewhere, and, added the Right Hon. gentleman, "I need not remind you mainly that we owe that to Dr Caldicott and his staff". There were other references similar in tone at that great gathering. The chairman of the governors, Mr Herbert Thomas, alluded to the origin of the institution, to some features of its history, and then followed a declaration which deserves reproducing. "At no time since 1532 had they possessed a head-master more worthy to guide and train the youths of the city than they now possessed in the Rev. Dr. Caldicott". Dr Caldicott had occasion to remember the meeting, for on behalf of many of the old boys was presented to him a beautiful silver centre piece, with an illuminated address, worded as follows :-
"On the inauguration of the new buildings of the old Grammar School, we, the former pupils of the school, beg you to accept the accompanying gift as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the debt of gratitude we owe to you, not only of much kindness shows to many of us personally, but for the great and lasting service you have rendered us all as citizens in maintaining and extending the usefulness of the school, and securing for it - we hope for all time - that place amongst the public schools of the country which is due both to the school itself and to the ancient city of Bristol. We feel that to you chiefly the city owes this new era upon which the school is now entering, and in the continuance of your head-mastership for may years to come she will find the best possible security that the school will continue to be an honour to herself and a faithful Alma Matar to her citizens. In this work we pray that every blessing may attend you, and that you may find in your future pupils a respect as true and an affectionate sympathy as deep as is felt in the hearts of the former pupils of the school."
The removal of the school to the high level did not check the satisfactory progress, but rather tended to augment it, and when Dr Caldicott gave up his post to leave a busy town for the quiet of a country rectory, he had the satisfaction of seeing a school in the heyday of prosperity with 328 scholars and 17 masters. The quality of the teaching was admittedly high. In the nine years 1855 to 1863 inclusive, the school gained 18 distinctions in Oxford and Cambridge, and it was reported on Speech Day 1883 -the last that Dr Caldicott attended before his departure - that for the last ten years (1873 to 1883) there had been gained on average as many such honours every year as they gained in the whole of that period of nine years to which reference had been made. Even still more remarkable as a testimony to the solidity of the mental building done under Dr Caldicott's regime was another fact mentioned at the same gathering, viz., that at Oxford old scholars were on the teaching body in four out of twenty-one colleagues; that one was similarly engaged in one of the most important colleges at Cambridge, and one was professor of mathematics in the University College of London. In discussing his merits as a schoolmaster with those who knew him best, there is only one matter in which criticism is ever heard - Dr Caldicott in some cases scarcely realised that everybody had not the same splendid physique and mental capacity for hard work with which nature had endowed him.
Not only was he an ardent educationalist but a remarkably keen politician also. His convictions were not of the milk-and-water sort, and his outspoken views were heard at meetings of the old Liberal Association which came to an end when Bristol was parted into four divisions for the purposes of parliamentary representation; and at public gatherings his tall figure was familiar at many an Anchor board on Colston Day, and on such occasions he generally had a share in the toast list. When Mr W.E. Forster's Education Act came into force, and Bristol was called upon to create a School Board, he became one of its members, and with Mr Justice Norris, then practising in the Western Circuit, he was an uncompromising foe to anything that appeared to savour religious inequality. Those were the days when the religious difficulty was bugbear in regard to board school education. There had not been the experience showing the working of the simple Scriptural instruction such as that given in the Bristol board of schools with such satisfactory results, and both Dr Caldicott and Mr Norris were whole-hearted members of the Birmingham League, which went in for purely secular teaching in board schools. It was a position not many clergymen have occupied, but Dr Caldicott was by no means an ordinary man, and unorthodoxy had no terrors for him. His Liberalism survived the trial which removed so many from the ranks of the party, and as recently as the last general election he was taking part in a Liberal gathering in Worcestershire.
When Dr Caldicott's connections with Bristol was ceasing there were many references to his valuable work. One of these was by Mr Samuel Morley, then M.P. for the city. In the course of a long address delivered at the Grammar School in August, 1883, he said - "Speaking for himself he could most truthfully say that among many precious memories connected with the city of Bristol, there were none that would be more thoroughly gratifying to himself or the subject of more precious recollections, than the friendship which he was thankful to say had been formed between Dr Caldicott and himself. He had many a time been thankful for the clearness, the straightforwardness, the independence, and the great intelligence which, as he thought, had distinguished his friend, and he thankfully and publicly recognised in his presence the obligations under which he had [UNCLEAR] and that in the seclusion of retirement to which he was about to resort, he might have those enjoyments which must result from the consciousness of having most nobly done his duty." Sentiments like these found no lack of endorsement, and Dr Caldicott was not allowed to go without tangible expressions of the esteem in which he was held. At the meeting at which Mr Morley delivered the address quoted from, the head boy, H. L. Smith, desired to acknowledge the great service of the retiring head-master and explained that a sum of £250 had been contributed to form a presentation fund. The form of the testimonial was in itself an evidence of Dr Caldicott's zeal as an educationalist and of his love for his old school, for by his desire the amount subscribed was used as an endowment fund for the school library. Dr Caldicott's own speech was full of good feeling, and of cordial recognition of the help he had received in the school from Mr Openshaw, the second master, and from the governing body, who "full, perfect, and frank confidence" he especially acknowledged. The words with which he concluded were indicative of the manner of the man, and are noteworthy in days when denominationalism has become recrudescent. "He would venture to express a hope that neither governors nor masters would consent to any change in the fundamental principles on which the school was governed. Mr Morley had spoken with just criticism of the attempts lately made to construct public schools which should be specially connected with the Church of England. He should have been glad to have heard Mr Morley extend his criticism - he did not imply he did not do so - to all schools which set up a narrow and confined basis of operations. He did not believe in the moral effect of schools confined to this or that class in social condition any more than he believed in the good moral effect of schools confined to this or that section of religious belief. England was what she was not because they had rich people on one side, and poor people on the other, not because they had well-born people on one side and vulgar people on the other, not because they had people of one religious belief on one side and people of another religious belief or without any religion at all on the other, but England was great because, whatever might be the distinction of class, of religion, or of political principles, all stood together in time of danger as one man. It was the unity of feeling in Englishmen that compensated for the lack of her population and for the smallness of their home territories. It was that unity of feeling which great schools like that were intended to maintain. Let them not take their rich boys, or their well-born boys, or their Church of England boys and train them together to think themselves the salt of the whole earth and to treat others as vulgar outcasts from their ranks. On the other hand, let them not select the poor children or the so-called ill-born children, and allow them to learn lessons of narrowness from the example set on the other side. Rather let it be the endeavour to teach English boys to mix together and be united, and depend upon it, if they succeeded in inspiring them as boys in the spirit of unity, they would hereafter find them prepared to stand shoulder to shoulder against world."
On August 1st, good-bye was said to Dr Caldicott at a dinner at the Clifton Down Hotel, which was attended by a crowd of leading people in this part of the world. Mr H. Thomas, Chairman of the Governors, presided, and he joined in the hearty recognition of the good work Dr Caldicott had done. After his health had been drunk the rev. gentleman was presented with a service of plate of the value of about 150 guineas. This led to more kindly speech-making, and Mr Lewis Fry added his testimony to that of Mr W. H. Wills, not then knighted, and other speakers. At a later date Dr Caldicott came back to Bristol and met many of his old students at dinner at the Montague. Although far removed from the scene of the labours of the best part of his life, he continued to feel an interest in the institution that had been his pride,and in July last he was present at the dinner of old boys held in London, and in responding to the toast of "The Old School" he said as a former head-master of Bristol Grammar School he felt proud of the success in life which had been achieved by his former pupils, and the honour which they had thereby conferred on a great educational institution.
Dr Caldicott was also rural dean of South Kineton. He was Select Preacher at Oxford 1889 to 1891, was J.P. for Warwickshire and Worcestershire, an alderman of the Worcestershire County Council, and chairman of the Charities Committee of the Council. He leaves a widow and two sons.
08/02/1892
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Dr G. F. Burder
DEATH OF DR BURDER
The announcement of the death of Dr G. F. Burder, of Clifton, will be received with widespread regret. The deceased had practised in Clifton during the whole of his career, and he took the warmest interest in the Bristol General Hospital and the Bristol Medical School. He was connected with the Hospital for nearly thirty years, and was senior physician for a considerable period, while his services as lecturer at the Medical School were very highly appreciated by the faculty. Beyond the medical profession Dr Burder was widely known as a clever meteorologist. He occasionally lectured on the subject, and was a frequent contributor to the Daily Press on meteorological subjects. The deceased had been in failing health for some time, and had been obliged to relinquish a portion of his practice in consequence. He frequently complained of pains in the chest after much exertion, and it was feared that that arose from an affection of the heart. On Saturday evening Dr Burder attended a dinner and scientific meeting at the Queen's Hotel, and afterwards walked to his residence, 7, South Parade, Clifton, arriving there shortly after ten o'clock. He appeared much distressed, and his nephew, Mr E. J. Burder, expressed regret that he had not ridden, the doctor's reply being that it scarcely seemed worth while to ride so short a distance. These were the last words he uttered, as almost immediately afterwards the doctor sank into a chair and expired. The deceased was 67 years of age and unmarried. His nephew, Mr E. J. Burder, lived with him, and the Vicar of Bedminster is another nephew. The deceased was a man of high character, and there were few who were more universally esteemed, and consequently his death will be lamented by a very large circle of friends. Only last Thursday Dr Burder delivered a lecture before the Bristol Naturalists' Society. He retained the position of Consulting Surgeon at the General Hospital up to the time of his death.
13/10/1893
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr John Frederick Lucas
DEATH OF ALDERMAN LUCAS
The announcement of the death of Alderman J. F. Lucas, which took place yesterday, at his residence, Ponsford, will occasion much surprise, as well as widespread regret, as Mr Lucas was present at the meeting of the Town Council on Tuesday, and apparently in his usual health. It appears that on reaching home that evening he was seized with a sudden faintness, and on Wednesday the illness was of so serious a nature that Dr. E. Long Fox was called upon to visit the patient. In the evening he was reported to be slightly better, but inquiries made yesterday morning elicited replies which caused considerable anxiety, and between three and four o'clock it became known that a telegram had been received by relatives in Bristol conveying the news that the Alderman had passed away. Mr Lucas had suffered from Bright's disease, but we understand that death was due to an affection of the heart. The deceased was about 62 years of age, having been born on the night of the Bristol riots. He was head of the firm of Lucas Brothers, and Co., African merchant, of this city, and was a director of Daniel Sykes and Co, Limited. He had been an alderman of the city since 1868. He rarely took part in discussions in the Council; but he was always recognised as a man of sound judgment and good business ability. He served on the Watch Committee, and was also a member of the Committee of Visitors at the Lunatic Asylum, and he has been a justice of the peace for the city for many years. Deceased leaves a widow, one son - Mr E. C. Lucas, a partner in the business - and five daughters, one of whom was recently married to Mr Alan McArthur. Formerly Mr Lucas lived at Stapleton, but he resided for many years at 111 Pembroke Road, afterwards removing to Yatton, and about two years ago he took a residence at Ponsford.
20/04/1891
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Walter Macliver
The death of Mr Macliver removes from among the older citizens of Bristol one who has been closely associated with works of local progress, and whose energy was largely devoted during the generation which is passing to the maintenance and development of national interests. The columns of this journal, of which he was the founder, and to the time of his death the proprietor, are scarcely the place in which to attempt to portray those qualities of mind and heart which gave him a special position among his contemporaries and secured for him the affectionate regard of those who knew him best. The pen which has to record his death in the journal in which he was so long interested is subject to so many restraints as to deprive it of the freedom in which a natural desire to eulogise without exaggeration would wish to indulge. The acknowledgment of his deserts as a citizen, and as a politician, must come from others. But while this task must be delegated to those who are acquainted with Mr Macliver's career as a journalist and member of Parliament, it will outrage no canon of modesty if the writer of this note lays upon his bier a simple wreath as a token of purely personal esteem. In a large city men may come and men may go, but the community goes on forever; and each generation builds its own monument in the works it leaves behind. Although it is true, as Robert Browning has finely said, that it is not what a man does that exalts him, but what a man would do, the public measure of capacity is usually to be found in the work actually achieved; and if Mr Macliver's claim to remembrance were to be estimated in this way it is probable that he would not receive that full justice to which the dissemination of influence would entitle him. The daily journal which he established in the summer of 1858 has been issued on upwards of ten thousand separate days, and every day it has recorded incidents which in the aggregate constitute local and national history. The ideal newspaper has not yet been published; but it can be truly said for Mr Macliver that his earnest wish was that the papers he controlled should contribute something towards the elevation and entertainment of possible readers, and that they should be as free from objectionable features as careful supervision could make them. It was a proud satisfaction to him that at a period when the provincial newspaper press was in a transition state, and when to start a daily journal was to incur a great risk, he established an organ that for the first time gave the city reports of the debates in Parliament on the preceding evening, and that provided a medium for daily communication. A second source of satisfaction to him was that he was able to find employment for a large number of men. To these pleasures he added consciousness that he was helpful to movements which he believed to be useful either to the district in which he lived or to the nation. If this were the place to record them, innumerable instances could be given of his generosity; and of his urbanity, his consideration for others, and his abnegation of himself, those who knew him intimately will not need to be reminded. He had confidence in the future of Bristol, and he believed that the past thirty years have laid a groundwork of great promise. The work he did is not evanescent; and this is one of the consolations which come to us when the Great Reconciler Death, withdraws those who most deserve our love, and whose absence seems to leave a void that cannot be filled.
29/09/1919
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr Thomas Holmes Gore
We regret to announce the death of Mr Thomas Holmes Gore, for very many years Clerk to the Bristol Justices, and who passed away on Saturday night at his residence, 4 Windsor Terrace, Clifton. He was 83 years of age, and had been in failing health for some time. It was in April 1875, that Mr T. Holmes Gore was appointed to the important post of Clerk to the Bristol Justices, whose choice was soon fully justified. He was already experienced in the work, having been Clerk to the Margate Justices from 1860 to 1865, and afterwards for ten years assistant clerk to the Lord Mayor of London in the justices' room at the Mansion House. The office of clerk to the Bristol Justices was created under the provisions of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1835, and of May in the following year Messrs William Brice and Daniel Burges, jun, were appointed Clerks to the Justices for the City and County of Bristol. Those gentlemen were also solicitors to the corporation; and by a subsequent arrangement in March, 1849, Mr Burges, on being appointed Town Clerk, resigned, and Mr Wm. Brice became sole clerk at a salary of £1000 a year. That office he held until April, 1875, when Mr T. Holmes Gore was appointed, Mr Brice becoming Town Clerk.
In May, 1910, when he had completed 40 years in Bristol, Mr Holmes Gore made a statement to a 'Daily Press' reporter as to the remarkably changes that had taken place in regard to the work of the Police Court. He pointed out that in some directions the business of the Clerk to the Justices department had materially increased, and the nature of some of the duties of the Clerk had become more difficult and involved. On the other hand, Mr Gore pointed out with satisfaction to the fact that during his period of office the crime of the city as reflected in the Police Court returns, had considerably decreased. His Majesty's Judges and the Recorder, when holding assizes and quarter sessions, frequently referred to the absence of serious crime in the calendars. Mr Gore was in the position to speak with the authority born of long experience of Bristol's Bench of unremunerated Magistrates, and he bore witness to the zealous and painstaking care with which those gentlemen carried out their responsible duties. The introduction of various new statutes and the increasing population of the city added at various times to the duties of the Magistrates' office, and Mr Gore acknowledged the great help he received from the then assistant clerk (the late Mr J. E. Braithwaite), as well as Messrs Esbester, Young, Grundy, and other members of staff. The passing of numerous Acts of Parliament from time to time made the duties of a justices' clerk more and more exacting and responsible, both in regard to criminal and licensing matters, but Mr Gore was always able to solve knotty problems that arose, and the remarkable scarcity of appeals from the decisions of the Bench was a splendid tribute to the sound advice they received from their clerk. Early in 1916, owing to his advancing years, Mr Holmes Gore was relieved of a great part of his responsibility and work by the appointment of Mr. W. S. George as joint clerk to the justices, but Mr Gore continued to perform a portion of his duties, and was at the offices fairly recently. His total record of work covers no less a period than 59 years, of which he had spent 44 in Bristol.
Mr Holmes Gore had three sons, of whom one is the Rev. G. H. Gore, a Church of England clergyman, who received special mention for his services as a chaplain in the forces. Mr Arthur Holmes Gore, a popular member of the theatrical profession, made the supreme sacrifice in the war.
8/12/1894
Western Daily Press
Obituary
Mr. C. W. Savage
SUDDEN DEATH OF MR C. W. SAVAGE
We regret to announce the sudden death, at his residence, Springfield, Westbury-on-Trym, of Mr C. W. Savage. The sad event was first discovered by the butler, who, on going to his late master's room, as usual, at 7.45 yesterday morning, found that, instead of being already dressed, as was often the case, the deceased gentleman was still in bed. A nearer view revealed the sad fact that life was extinct. Mr H. Ormerod, the medical advisor, was immediately summoned, and expressed the opinion that the deceased had died in his sleep very soon after retiring to rest. As it is well known that he had for some time suffered from heart disease, an inquest will probably be considered unnecessary. The death of Mr Savage removes from the parish one of its best known and oldest inhabitants. In every movement which he considered was for the good of the parishioners he ever took a prominent and energetic part. The Girls' School at Westbury, and the new Mission Room at Southmead, are two of the local monuments to the generosity with which he sacrificed both his time and his wealth. During the last few weeks of his life Mr Savage was engaged in securing a site for a Parish Institute, and though he met with several disappointments, he persevered, with the result that the current number of the Parish Magazine contains the announcement that a permanent building would shortly be erected. The paragraph further says:- "The origination of this plan is entirely due to Mr C. W. Savage, who is always so ready and willing to advance all church work, both here and elsewhere". The truth of the concluding sentences of the extract is abundantly proved by reference to the subscription lists of the Bristol Bishopric Scheme, the Cathedral Restoration Fund, and the numerous charitable institutions of many a Bristol parish. Mr Savage was a J.P. for the county of Gloucester and frequently attended the sitting of the court at Lawford's Gate. He was also chairman of the local Conservative Association, and took great interest in the Primrose League, a local habitation of which he had assisted to establish in the parish. He was one of the candidates nominated on Tuesday evening last for election on the Parish Council, and on that occasion he proposed a vote of thanks to the chairman. Mr Savage took a very active part in the negotiations which have been carried on for the purpose of avoiding a contest in the forthcoming election, and it is, indeed, said that his death has been hastened by overwork in connection with that and other parochial matters. On Thursday night Mr Savage arrived at the lodge at the entrance to Springfield, and when the gardener's wife came to open the gate, the deceased gentleman made kindly inquiries as to her health, and, knowing she had a bad cold, he requested her to return to the house, while he got out of his carriage and attended to the gate himself. This incident shows the thoughtful kindness of the elate master of Springfield, and as an illustration of the statement made by one of the household, "We have lost a good master". Mr Savage's brother died in 1891.
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