Number 166 November 2016
MORE TRAFFIC TALK AND TALK AND NOWT ELSE THE PAPER THAT COULD ONLY BE IN
SALTAIRE
LEST WE FORGET As regular readers are aware, this newspaper, thanks to the extensive research done by and generous contributions made by Colin Coates, has, for the last two years, been following the history of World War One, with focus upon the effects that it had on Saltaire. Remembrance Day being again upon us, it would seem especially appropriate to pay tribute to one local lad who was lost to our village a hundred years ago this month. See Page Two >>
The Sentinel’s Special Correspondent was at the meeting, previously promoted in our pages, to discuss the ongoing problem of throughgoing traffic, especially on Caroline Street, and reports: Nearly thirty Saltaire residents presented their concerns about traffic in Saltaire's streets to the three councillors on October 13th, and came away with the distinct impression that nothing is likely to be done about them. Residents' observations show that more than 2,500 vehicles use Caroline Street within an ordinary 24-hour period, and many of these exceed the 20mph limit, especially at "quiet" times. But traffic measures are based on accident figures, not on perceived dangers.
Two other issues were raised at some length: The residents of Rhodes, Maddocks and Baker Streets have applied for "residents only" parking, and while the request is noted, no action is imminent. Meanwhile, residents close to the new cobbles on Victoria Road, while being impressed by the sight of them, are horrified and kept awake by the noise of traffic still speeding across them. In conclusion, the meeting was informed that owing to cuts to local government finance, Shipley has just £6,000 to spend on traffic measures, and none of that pittance appears to be heading towards Saltaire.
As with all matters of local concern, the Sentinel welcomes your views. [See below]
In this issue
NEW BOOK Plus
OLD BOAT Plus
ALL OUR USUAL UNUSUALS
COLLEGE OPEN DAY Shipley College has an ‘Open Day’ (4.30-7pm) on Wednesday Nov. 9th. Stella Downs invites us all to: Come along and find out more about the full and part time courses, as well as apprenticeships that we now have to offer. This is another perfect opportunity to meet our staff, from whom you will receive guidance on your future choices. The event will be in the Exhibition Building on Exhibition Road and further details can be had by visiting www.shipley.ac.uk
WHATEVER IT IS - SAY IT IN THE Sentinel ! sentinel@saltairevillage.info The Deadline is always 20th of the month prior to publication.
NEW BOOK REVEALS UNKNOWN FACTS A new book, ‘Salts Mill, the Owners and Managers, 1853 to 1987’, written by Maggie Smith and Colin Coates and published by Amberley, will be available from major book sellers (Waterstones, Amazon and Salts Mill) from 15th of this month. Amberley Publishers approached members of the Saltaire History Club late in 2015 asking if any local historian(s) would be interested in writing a book about Salts Mill. At first it seemed as though a ‘coffee table’ type book was in their thoughts – lots of images and not too many words. Maggie tells us that she communicated the thoughts of her fellow historians that such a book had been available for some time. A book that covered the owners and managers of the Mill from its foundation by Sir Titus Salt (Bart) in 1853 to the ownership by Illingworth Morris and the end of the Mill’s textile production in 1986/1987 would be of more value because little has been previously written/published about the late 19th and 20th Century eras in Salts Mill – yet these time periods involved major events for the UK economy and the textile industry: for example, worldwide depressions in the 1880s and 1930s and two World Wars. Thus, the owners, managers and workers lived and worked in the context of many dramatic events. This book has been made possible thanks to intense and detailed new research by Colin Coates into the leading characters involved over time, such as John Rhodes, Isaac Smith, John Maddocks, Sir Henry Whitehead, Arthur Hill, Ernest Gates, Sir Frank Sanderson, Robert Whyte Guild and the Ostrer Family. Historians Dave Shaw, David King and Ian Watson have contributed files, comments and suggestions, Sandi Moore has found some key images from the Saltaire Archive and Pauline Ford has provided vital information that was lacking to ‘complete the jigsaw’ for Titus Junior. It has been a collaborative effort and the proceeds from the book will go to the Saltaire History Club. The book reveals many previously unknown or not fully understood facts: for example, the dominant role played by Charles Stead – as partner to Titus Salt Junior – and the burdens placed on Sir Titus Salt’s descendants by the provisions made in his will. It explores the Titus Salt Junior and Charles Stead investments in coal and iron ore in Dayton, Tennessee and poses important questions as to what factors may have caused the Salt family’s loss of the Mill and Saltaire Village in 1892 - just 16 years after the death of Sir Titus Salt. For the first time, this work explores the nature of the three business men who formed a consortium with James Roberts (later Sir James) and brings to light information that could explain their relatively short-lived partnership. In referring to Sir James Roberts, the book aims to fully understand his very important legacy and acknowledge this publicly. The key events leading to both the end of the private company founded by Sir Titus, the formation of a public company in 1923 and the sale of the village in 1933 by the syndicate of Bradford ‘wool men’ are explored, as is the nature of the Illingworth Morris era of ownership from 1958 to 1986. The authors hope that the work will spark further research, into the fortunes of the Mill and the Village in the 20th century. A presentation summarizing the book’s key findings will be held in Salts Mill on Wednesday November 30th at 6.30pm. (The exact venue within the Mill will be decided when numbers are known, but staff will be present at the entrance to provide guidance.) Tickets are £5 and will be available from Salts Mill Bookshop or can be ordered by calling 01274 531163 (ask for the 1853 Gallery) and collected at the door on the evening. Please order in advance to enable staff to cater appropriately.
COLIN’S COLUMN ANOTHER LIFE LOST 126 brave men from Saltaire lost their lives in World War One. Here is the life of just one of them, who died aged just nineteen: Joseph Arthur Brooks was born on January 24th 1897 in Nottinghamshire. In 1901 he lived with his family at 2 Bath Buildings, Saltaire (now demolished). His father, Joseph, was a bricklayer. By 1911 they were living at 4 Shirley Street, with Joseph Arthur, aged just 14, working as a doffer. Joseph Arthur was an Able Seaman in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. However, due to an excess of sailors, many Reservists were not required, so battalions were formed from volunteer sailors to fight on land. Joseph Arthur was enlisted with the 2nd (Hawke) Battalion. He died on November 23rd 1916 and is buried in St. Sever Cemetery, near Rouen, in France. Details of all the men from Saltaire who served their country are online at saltairevillage.info Colin Coates
PETER RANDALL Gentleman’s Hairdresser 205 Bingley Road 01274 – 597140 _________________________
, hig VICTORIA TEAROOMS
8 Victoria Road Open Daily Coffee, tea, cakes, scones, snacks and novelty gifts 01274 - 823092 _________________________
CAROLINE SOCIAL CLUB Caroline Street, always has a welcome for all.
Regular Events 01274 – 585140 _________________________
SALTS MILL Opened in 1853 and stillOpen
Every Day Attractions include:
SALT’S DINER
Cafe in to the Opera SALTAIRE HISTORY EXHIBITION 1853 Gallery THE HOME and many other, varied retail outlets ADMISSION FREE 01274 – 531163
CANAL CELEBRATIONS
The SPA
Last month saw a series of events along the length of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal to mark the bicentenary of its completion, including a visit to Saltaire by the historic boat Kennet as it re-enacted the first full journey, by water, between the two great cities. The Sentinel’s Wild Rover Reporter was there to greet it and tells us: Many people crowded the canalside, the bridge overhead and beside the Information Centre to welcome the Kennet canal barge to Saltaire on a wet Sunday morning (October 16th, 2016). The United Reformed Church bells peeled out and the Hall Royd Band struck up some heartening tones, helping to maintain the spirit of the crowd, with many sporting Canal Society rosettes, which were red and white to symbolise the two counties which the canal connects. Somewhere amongst the brollies the Lord Mayor, Geoff Reid, in ceremonial regalia undertook the boat welcoming formalities. Grateful thanks are due for the efforts of the individuals who kept the bells peeling and the band playing as the Kennet, and its attendant flotilla of some four large barges, continued on its way to Hirst Lock; with people coming from all sides in the improving weather to view the boat's genteel progress up through the lock and the swing bridge. It was good to see people taking advantage of the opportunity to view the new colourful mural by children from Saltaire Primary School and the newly installed information panel about the lock and its surroundings. Some of them also enjoyed impromptu visits to Hirst Wood Nature Reserve. The Kennet and flotilla were sent on their merry way to Dowley Gap locks and the large crowds awaiting at Bingley, before an overnight stay at Silsden - no doubt to the relief of some very tired crew members; not least those walking alongside for miles to operate the old lock mechanisms!
The Sentinel welcomes articles written by its readers. The editorial policy is to try to strike a balance between history and news in the paper’s content, so contributors are asked to be patient. The standard word count is 200 and the deadline is always 20th of the month prior to publication.
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21 Titus Street The Authentic Village corner shop Open Mon-Sat 8am-10pm Sun. 10am-10pm 01274 – 826534 _________________________
VICTORIA HALL Many Regular Events Rooms for Hire Visit the website at: www.victoriahallsaltaire.co.uk
01274 – 327305 _________________________
SALTAIRE CANTEEN Now open every day
79 Victoria Road 01274 – 597818 _________________________
WRITING
SALTAIRE STORIES IN MINUTES
ADVERTISING
Have you a couple of hours to spare once a month on a Monday 4.45-6.45pm? The trustees of Saltaire Stories need a volunteer to take notes at our meetings. Help is available from the current Minutes Secretary, who now has other tasks as the organisation is growing. Work to promote wider use of the Saltaire Archive has been going well, and we hope to continue this with a further Heritage Lottery Fund grant for 2017-19 . The small, friendly meetings are held in the Exhibition Building. See www.saltairestories.org , ring Molly Kenyon: 01274 593585 or email saltairestories@gmail.com
Space in the Sentinel is not for sale. Please note, nonetheless, that we are always pleased to print, free of charge, short articles which feature enterprise of interest and potential benefit to the local community, rather than personal profit; including, of course, concerts, etc. which meet the same criteria.
Notices - News - Announcements - News - Notices Den Miller
VILLAGE WEBSITE
SANTA ALREADY ON HIS WAY
WINTER BANDSTAND
The Saltaire Sentinel is available online, via the not for profit Saltaire Village Website, thanks to Pamela Reynolds, who manages the site at
BY TRAM, AS USUAL
Free concerts at Caroline Social Club on the second Sunday of every month. Club opens at 12pm with live music from 2pm. For more details, visit www.carolineclub.co.uk
www.saltairevillage.info _____________________________
Saltaire Cricket Club TABLE TOP SALES
Victoria Hall Sundays, November 6th & 20th Doors open at 10 am. To book a table, contact Simon Hicks: 01274 787908 ___________________________
STEEP SALTAIRE STAIRWAY SHUFFLES Dina Plowes shares what she calls “a little wimsey piece” about all our ups and downs: Those of us lucky enough to live in or about the village will be very aware of our Heritage Status, and our steep indoor staircases! I thought I had sorted out the navigation process, (sidewise for feet, handrail for hands) when a neighbour provided me with an alternative: backwards for body, one hand on rail! Is there no end to the techniques?! [What do you think, readers? As always, your ideas will be welcomed. – Ed]
Shipley Glen Tramway are very pleased to announce that Santa Claus has agreed to come again on the following dates in December, from 11am to 4.30pm: (Saturdays and Sundays) 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th. Preparations are in hand for our Santa Specials and the elves are working hard to ensure all is ready. The price per child will remain at £5, and as always will include a ride on the tram, a visit in the Grotto with Santa and a Christmas gift. Accompanying adults will be charged the normal fare for the tram ride. Our traditional sweet shop will be open as usual. Last year, Santa’s visit was a huge success, so we are looking forward to seeing everyone again. Dina Plowes
CUPPACARE is a popular café and bookstall, open to the public on most Mondays and Fridays, from 10am to 1.30pm in New Kirkgate, Shipley. We are a non-profit service provided by Shipley Christians Together.
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AN ETHIOPIAN EPISODE
TRAMWAY
That is the title of an illustrated talk to be given by Tom Lawson when the RSPB Airedale and Bradford Local Group meets at the Kirkgate Centre on Friday, November 4th (7.30pm). Admission costs £3 for members and nonmembers alike, with accompanied children admitted free. The Group has also arranged a guided walk, to be led by Mark Doveston, along Harden Beck on November 12th. December’s meeting will be on Friday, 2nd. For further details, Telephone: 01274 582078 or E-mail: abrspb@blueyonder.co.uk
Would anyone interested in becoming a volunteer please ask for a form at the ticket office or call Richard on 07773 001250. We would love to hear from you!
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CUPPACARE
WORLD HERITAGE WHEELIE Does NOT talk rubbish
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KASSAPIAN QUESTION Last month’s article about a tie belonging to a Peter Kassapian, labelled “Salts of Saltaire” being discovered in a pub in Oxford, has resulted in the reassuring response that Peter still lives locally, with the details of the ‘tie story’ still to be told (or otherwise). [Not being part of the Murdoch Empire, this newspaper maintains its motto: “Inclusion, Not Intrusion.”]
"At least I’m not implicated in the traffic problem. I have enough to do dealing with clumsy pedestrians!”
The Saltaire Sentinel, written by the people of Saltaire and photocopied by Shipley College in the heart of Saltaire every month, is not affiliated to, nor in any way controlled or influenced by any group, society or organization. sentinel@saltairevillage.info Sadly, sooner or later you will dispose of this copy of the Sentinel. Please do so with care for our World Heritage Site environment.