Shipley Times and Express

This page contains transcripts of articles and reports published in the Shipley Times and Express. The subjects will be varied and specific entries will be linked to from the relevant page in the Wiki. It should be an accurate transcript taken from images of the printed page. Where the image quality is such that there is some doubt as to what it says it will be in italics (apart from whole sections that are in italics to separate it from the normal content) and where a best guess can't be made it will be shown as italic question marks.

Saturday 14 October 1876 LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF A NEW BOARD SCHOOL

About Woodbottom School

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 14 October 1876

BAILDON

LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF A NEW BOARD SCHOOL

On Saturday afternoon last the foundation stone of a new school for a part of the district under the Baildon School Board was laid. The building will stand on an excellent site at Baildon Wood Bottom, fronting the Otley high road. For the school a set of plans were drawn up by Messrs. Marsden and Bennett, architects, Bradford, the cost of which, if carried out, would have been nearly £6OOO. The Board thought this sum too large, and ordered a second set of plans to be prepared. These latter have received the sanction of the Education Department. The school will contain nearly all the accommodation provided by the first plans, and the entire cost will be £3900, the saving having chiefly been effected by the substitution of a plainer building. The accommodation will consist of a mixed school for boys and girls, and infants' school. The number of children accommodated will be 350. The children from Westgate and Tong Park Board Schools gathered round the stone on Saturday afternoon at 3-30, and shortly afterwards they were followed by the members of the School Board. The following gentlemen were also present.—Messrs. Marsden and Bennett (architects), Mr. James Fyfe, Revs. P. Featherstone, T. H. Hines, and G. H. Beeley. The number of spectators was pretty large. The proceedings commenced by the singing of a hymn, which was followed by prayer from the Rev. W. Ffolliot, vicar of Baildon. Mr. Jagger then presented Mr. E. Holden, the chairman of the School Board, with a silver trowel, mallet, and square, suitably engraved. A bottle was placed in the cavity underneath the stone, containing Mr. Holden's photograph, copies of several newspapers, and also a written document, a copy of which was read by Mr. Walker. The stone was then duly laid by Mr. Holden, who said he hoped that the new school would prove a great blessing to the children in that part of the district. The children afterwards partook of tea and buns in the Mechanics' Institute at the expense of Mr. Holden. In the evening a public meeting was held in the Mechanics' Institute, under the presidency of Mr. Holden, when stirring addresses were delivered on education by the Chairman, Mr. A. Illingworth, Mr. W. E. Glyde, the Rev. T. H. Hines, the Rev. P. Featherstone, and Messrs. Midgley and Constantine, of Baildon. A selection of songs, duets, and glees was also given.

Saturday 27 December 1884 FATAL ACCIDENT AT RAILWAY STATION

About Baildon station

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 27 December 1884
FATAL ACCIDENT AT RAILWAY STATION.

An inquest was held on Tuesday, at Bradford, by Mr J. Hutchinson, the borough coroner, touching the death of John Hey, woolsorter, of Morton, near Bingley, who met with his death by jumping from a train at Baildon station on Saturday last.

Sydney John Hey, joiner, of Morton, near Bingley, said the deceased, John Hey, was his father, and was years 54 years of age. Witness had seen the dead body at the Bradford Infirmary, which was that of his father.

Mrs Hey, wife of the deceased, stated that on Saturdav last, she and her husband were in the Bradford station, intending to journey to Bingley. Her husband, referring to a train, asked a porter if that was the one for Skipton, and on getting a reply in the affirmative, they got into it shortly after six o’clock. After passing two or three stations, deceased asked some of the passengers if that was not Baildon station and one of them answered. "It is Baildon," and told them that the train was going to Ilkley. Her husband then got up and stepped out of the carriage, and in doing so he fell down with his feet towards the carriage. Two passengers had got out of the train immediately before her husband, but the door had been closed in the interim. She did not, however, think it was fastened; she did not think the train was in motion when deceased got up to get out, but it moved as soon as be had opened the door. She did not know whether the station was lighted up, but it appeared very dark. Witness was taken to Esholt, and she then walked back to Baildon, but found her husband had been taken away, and she was informed he had been injured. Before her husband got out, she hadn't heard a whistle or signal for the train to start, nor did she hear the name of the station called where the train stopped.

By Hawkins (traffic inspector of the Midland Railway): She was sure the train was not in motion when her husband alighted, she was about to follow him.

By the foreman : She did not hear an alarm given when her husband fell, nor did she see any officials near; but when the train commenced to move, she saw some one in a black coat running down the platform to her husband.

Mr Spence, house surgeon at Bradford Infirmary, stated that deceased was admitted to that institution shortly before eight o’clock Saturday night last. He found him suffering from compound com-minuted fracture of the right arm, below the elbow; one lacerated wound to the top of the same shoulder, and one in the back. The bones in the region of the shoulder and the ribs were smashed. Deceased was conscious, and died about half an hour after admission. The cause of death was haemorrhage and shock to the nervous system.

J. T. Masters stated that he was the station-master at Baildon. On Saturday evening he was on the platform on the arrival of the train by which deceased travelled. He (witness) called the name of the station, as also did the other two porters. The station was lighted up with petroleum oil lamps, there being six on each platform, and which were lighted when the train arrived. About thirty passengers left the train, and nine joined it. He gave the signal to the guard to start the train, the doors being closed at the time, as he had passed the whole length of the train, and when the train was going about four miles an hour he observed a man step from a third-class carriage to the platform, witness being about twelve yards from him. As soon as deceased's feet came to the platform, he appeared to lose them and fall sideways towards the train. The deceased did not cry out, but some women did. When the man fell against the train, he went down between the opening of two carriages, and before he had time to balance himself, he was caught by the foot-board and crushed between the foot-board and the platform. He then fell to the ground between the rails and the platform, and the wheels of two carriages passed over his arm. When the train had passed, he was picked up and carried into the porters' room, and afterwards to the Bradford Infirmary by special engine. When the witness saw the man in the position be was, he turned his lamp to a red light and waved it towards the engine, but did not call out, nor did the train stop. There were two guards to the train, both of whom had entered their van. There is a bridge the end of the station, and the abutment of this would prevent the driver of the engine from seeing witness’s lamp. He only held his light until the carriages had passed, then turned it to white light, and went to look after the man. If the driver had seen the man, he would not have been able to bring the train to stand before it had gone over him. If he had called to the driver, he could not have heard him, as the steam was on.

A juryman : Do you not think that instead of waving your lamp, which you knew to be useless, it would have been better to have paid your attention at once to the man?

Witness: I could not have rendered any assistance, seeing I was twelve yards from him, and no sooner did he step upon the platform than fell between the carriages. 

Thomas Crabtree said he was the stoker to the engine of the train in question, and was on the engine the time it left Baildon station. He received the signal to start the train, and he watched it until it was clear of the platform, but did not observe any signal to stop. He could not see on to the platform, owing the abutment of the bridge. He heard the name of the station called, but could not swear by whom. The station was also lighted up as usual.

Arthur Miller, of Edinburgh Street, Bradford, said be was second guard on the train in question. On leaving Baildon station he saw no danger signal, but when they got to Esholt he saw the deceased's wife get out of the train crying, and it was then was informed of the accident.

The Coroner, in addressing the jury, suggested if here could be some mode of signalling the train to stop, so that it could be seen when the train was outside the station; for it was evident that if the train was signalled at the present time, it would be of no use, for the driver could not see it. He suggested the fixing of a signal at the end of the bridge, which could be worked by any one on the platform.

Mr Hawkins said that involved a general question of signalling, but he would take note of it and bring the matter before the authorities. The jury returned a verdict of "Accidental death," attaching no blame to any person.

August 1893 Cliffe Lane gate & well. And low pressure mains

About Baildon Local Board of Guardians & Water Supply

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 26 August 1893
Baildon Local Board
The ordinary meeting of this Board was held on Tuesday evening. Mr W Holmes presided in the absence of the Chairman and there were also present Messrs. J. Crabtree, W. Gill, W. S. Hardaker, T. Hammond, G. B. Metcalfe, and J. Walker with the clerk (Mr J H Ward)
CLIFFE LANE AMD ITS WELL.
 Mr Hardaker asked whether there was anything further to report with respect to removal of the gate in Clilfe Lane?
The Clerk; No.
 Mr Walker said it would be worth the Board’s attention, whilst dealing with this matter of Cliffe Lane, to ask the opinion of their solicitors about the covering up of the well near to the bottom of Cliffe Lane. As far back as he could remember water had been used from there by Baildon people during such droughty seasons as the present, and thought it was the Board’s duty to see that no private individual interfered with the public rights, which, if maintained, would allow public access to this water.
 Mr. Hardaker said he would not wait for legal opinion, and be proposed that the Board immediately proceed to remove both the gate and the stones from the well.
 The Clerk said the whole question was before their solicitors, and be advised the Board that the better coarse would be to wait until they send their opinion.
 Mr. Hardaker said be would not wait ten minutes, after the letter they received last meeting from Mr Jackson, architect, acting on behalf of Mr Blackburn. What were they going to ask their solicitors about? Mr Jackson said be could not claim the road, and how, then, could he claim the water.
 Mr Walker said that in any case they must see that this lane, over which the public had a right of way, was not only repaired but that there was access to the water in it. What an advantage it would have been if they had all the springs open now; they would have been able to do without water from Shipley. As it was they could not get the wells, and the spring at Steel’s (Cliffe Lane) was running very feebly, and there was lot of waiting. This would be avoided if there was access to the other well.
 Mr. Metcalfe quite agreed that they ought to have the other well opened.
 After some conversation it was agreed await the legal advice.
FURTHER CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
 In reference the proposed additional expenditure of £6,000 odd in connection with the new waterworks and street improvements, a communication was read from the Local Government Board stating that an inquiry would be held on the 1st of September.
PLANS
Plans for extensions in the shape a warehouse at Baildon Bridge Corn Mill for Mr Wm. Walker were approved.
RIVER PURIFICATION.
 The Clerk read the circular letter sent out by the West Riding County Council, with regard to the purification of streams and rivers, and the intention of the County Council to contribute a proportion of tho cost where the local authorities take proceedings against offenders.
 The Chairman said that no doubt the River Aire was going to be purified before long. Somebody had said they would be able to fish in it three years hence (laughter).
THE OTLEY BOAD IMPROVEMENT.
 Mr Walker said he would like to suggest to the Board the desirability of completing the Otley Road improvement from the Cliffe Lane corner to the Junction. The whole length should be edged and channelled, and done with.
 Mr Hardaker said the surveyor advised them that it would be better left until after winter.
 Mr Walker did not agree with that view. To go so far and then stop was useless. That side of the road was in an unfit condition to be of any service to people using the road. The widening of the road was no benefit to anybody, because people could not drive near the footpath.
 With the exception of Mr. Hardaker all the members were in favour of the improvement being completed, and it was ordered be done.
WATER SUPPLY : STRONG COMPLAINTS.
 Several letters were read complaining of the irregularity of the water supply, and of the neglect to give due warning of the turning off of the water at the mains. It was stated that the supply of water obtainable would not warrant its being turned on oftener than Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The low pressure, which was another source of complaint, was said to be unavoidable. The above regulation was adopted for the higher portions of the district, where the Shipley pressure would not reach, and it had been determined that the residents in the lower districts should be put under the same restrictions, and not allowed to have water except on the above days.
 The Clerk read several of the letters referred to.
 The first letter read was from Messrs W. Wright & Co., the chemical works, and on the 15th they wrote desiring to know how it was that they turned the water off from their works for days together without giving them the slightest notice of their intention, thus causing them great inconvenience and considerable expense. They found that other people on the road knew of the Board’s intention, and especially the publicans; and other people had water that day, but they had not a drop, either for household purposes or anything else, nor had they had since Saturday last. How was it they were not supplied that day, when most other people were. They began to think there was great room for improvement in the management of the water at Baildon. They had sent a man to see about the water, and he was told that it would be there when he got back, but they had seen nothing of it yet. This meant that the water was off Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, and the Lord knows when besides (laughter).
 Another letter was from Mr James Roberts, of The Knoll, who wrote that Mr Stead had once informed him that he had independent connection with the Shipley mains, and asking the Board approve his taking water from Shipley. Referring to the decision to restrict the lower districts the same as the higher level, Mr Roberts said : "The action of your board reminds of a man who, having only four fingers one hand, determined that the other hand should have no advantage, to prevent which he had a finger lopped off that also (laughter). — In a second letter Mr Roberts repeated that Mr Stead informed him long before he came there, and still repeated it, that the Baildon Board were obliged, when requested, on the failure of their supply, to give instructions to Shipley to connect them. Was that so or not? This was the third day they had been without water. The Board's pretended sense of fairness did not find expression in practice so far as they were concerned, inasmuch as the Board gave notice of their intentions in the village, but not here. He was not, therefore, asking any favours, and it seemed very unfair that they had not given instructions to Shipley, to allow them to make the connection, seeing that he was willing to pay for it.
 Some conversation took place, and it was stated that consumers must do as well as they could until the new supply was ready. No action was taken in regard to regulations, and it was denied that Mr Stead had any exceptional claim.
 Mr Metcalfe said he supposed people had been grumbling all round.

Saturday 01 December 1894 THE PROPOSED RAILWAY SHIPLEY GLEN WOOD

About Shipley Glen Tramway

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 01 December 1894

THE PROPOSED RAILWAY SHIPLEY GLEN WOOD

THE PLANS PASSED AND THE WORKS COMMENCED

As briefly reported by us last week, a railway up Walker Wood—commonly known as Glen Wood, Saltaire—will shortly be an accomplished fact. The Baildon Local Board has provisionally passed the plans, and the Lord of the Manor (Col. W. W. Maude) has this week entered into an arrangement with the promoter of the passenger railway—Mr Samuel Wilson, late landlord of the Malt Shovel Inn, Baildon - so that nothing now remains but to carry out the work, which will done with all possible speed, as the ground rent is already in operation. The length of line already settled upon will be 500 yards in extent, and will commence at the bottom of Glen Wood, where the present footpath enters the wood. The line will be of a gradient of one in nine, the gauge will be 20 inches, there will be two sets of rails, and the upper terminus of the railway will be at the top of the wood, near Prod Lane gate, where the footpath turns to the right in the direction of Baildon. Here an engine-house will be built, and will probably contain an oil-engine, the Shipley Gas Company having refused to convey gas there, but the Saltaire Syndicate may consent to do so—though that point is not yet settled—in which case gas-engine will be the motive power. In the triangular plantation at the top of Walker Wood Mr Wilson intends to build himself a dwelling-house, and the engine-house will be of corrugated zine. The railway will be constructed in a straight line on the upper side of the present footpath, and for some distance will run parallel with the footpath, but at point lower down the railway will pass further into the wood, leaving the footpath on the right, and coming out again at the end of the lane leading on to the Carriage Drive. The cars will be worked by endless wire rope, which will be kept continually in motion, and a patent apparatus belonging to Mr Wilson and Mr Hardcastle, of Manningham, for clamming and unclamming (sic) the rope, will be attached to the cars, in addition to two safety brakes (patented by Messrs. Wilson & Hardcastle), which will immediately come into action automatically in case a car becomes disconnected by accident, and thus bring the car to a stand, the principal end in view in connection with this patent being the safety of the public. Each car will accommodate twelve passengers on six seats, and the cars will be open ones, after the style of the switchback cars, but improved. The cars will ran up level, the hind wheel being nine inches higher than those in front, similar to the hydraulic tramways at Scarborough. Landing-stages will be erected at either end of the line, and when in operation it will employ six persons. The present footpath will not be interfered with, but the railway will be fenced off, from top to bottom. The estimated cost of the present section is about £500, but if arrangements can be made with the owners of the fields abutting upon the Carriage Drive (Sir Titus Salt, Bart., Sons & Co.), the railway will be carried diagonally across the field situated between the present lane leading from this road into the wood and that leading towards Baildon Green, and in that case the lower terminus of the line will be at the comer of Saltaire Park, and immediately facing Saltaire Bridge. If the Saltaire Firm consent to this field being used for such a purpose—and we believe one member of the firm favourably entertains the proposal—the cost of the railway will be about £700. If not, however, the railway will stop at the bottom of Glen Wood. The line has already been marked out, will be proceeded with at once, under Mr Wilson’s supervision, and will be in working order before Easter—sooner, if possible.

Saturday 20 April 1895 EASTERTIDE AT SALTAIRE AND SHIPLEY GLEN

About Shipley Glen Tramway

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 20 April 1895

EASTERTIDE AT SALTAIRE AND SHIPLEY GLEN

Expressions of joy have been frequent during the Easter holiday on account the fine weather. Brighter spring days could not well have been, although the cold north-east winds which prevailed made themselves felt to no small extent when they were not ameliorated by the warm sun. As usual, the great attraction in the district was Shipley Glen, famed throughout a wide area as a place where freshness of air, beauty scenery, and more or less plebeian amusements can all be obtained. The visitors were very numerous to this deservedly popular resort, especially on Bank Holiday, when there was constant stream of people climbing the Glen Wood, swelling into a veritable hydra-headed multitude at the summit. One can hardly climb up the rocky path to the Glen without some feeling of sadness. Permanent trespasses on Nature have already been made by the aerial flight and the switchback railway, and recently a tramway has been constructed up the Glen Wood alongside the pathway, which looks like an ugly scar amongst the sublime rusticity of the surrounding woodland growth. Though the wood is, in parts, still beautiful, it is scarcely as it used to be—a haunt of nearly every British bird, and a garden of shade-loving hyacinths. From financial aspect was of course pity that the tramway had not been sufficiently prepared for the conveyance of passengers. Such was the case, however, and notices were prominently displayed on the palings guarding the rails to that effect. Just now a good deal of attention is being paid to the question of improving the Glen. There is a proposal to ask the people generally in all districts where an interest in the Glen is taken to bring their influence to bear to induce the West Riding County Council to come forward in the direction of further opening out and improving the Glen and neighbourhood. As stated in these columns recently, the Bradford Corporation has been asked to take the matter up, and the Finance and General Purposes Committee has already entered into communication with the County Council. The object is to get people in the locality first of all to take the question up, and next to see if the County Council, which has such large sums of money at its disposal, can be induced to undertake such work as would make the Glen and Baildon Moor to greater extent than ever places recreation. At present nothing has been definitely determined upon, but if the ideas which are now entertained were accomplished the authorities who have contributed money to carry out the improvements would made a joint governing body to manage the Glen, and keep it in proper order as a place of public resort. The main proposal now under consideration is to construct three new carriage roads, each to be 40ft. in width. One begins at the end of Green Lane, Baildon Green, and extends in north-westerly direction through Midgley Wood and Walker Wood, terminating at the eastern end of Prod Lane. It is proposed to widen Prod Lane, and then to form a new road from the western end of that lane, the eastern side of Bracken Hall Green, to Eldwick Beck. The other proposed road begins at the carriage drive at the northern end of the Saltaire Bridge, and extends in a northerly and westerly direction, joining the road through Midgley Wood and Walker Wood. The third road begins the same place as the second - the northern end Saltaire Bridge — and runs in an easterly direction practically along the line of the old road leading to Baildon Green, terminating at the end Green Lane, where the first road commences. Another proposal is to construct a new road, also 40ft. wide, beginning at the eastern end of Bracken Hall Green, and extending thence in northerly and easterly direction past Lucy Hall Farm to West Lane, thus connecting Baildon, by means of West Lane, directly with the Bracken Hail Green road. The Lord of the Manor (Major Maude) has promised to help the undertaking by giving land for roadmaking purposes, and the development the scheme will be watched with the utmost interest.

There was the usual collection of stalls, cocoa-nut and Aunt Sally shies, &c., on the approaches to the Glen, and the customary shows in addition on the top. The switchback railway, aerial flight, sea-on-land, and other instruments of torture to some and of pleasure to others, did big trades, and elicited much laughter and many shrieks of enjoyment or fear according to the constitution of the rider. A somewhat barbarous instrument was sort of wheel, points in which boats were suspended, the sensation being provided by the rotation the wheel; of course the boats are so arranged as to keep right side up. The hand-trapezes were much in demand, and both males and females were to be seen gliding over the rope upon which the pulley attached to the trapeze runs with considerable velocity, the grand climax being heavy concussion against a padded buffer. The noble art of self-defence was being exemplified in several booths, the exterior of which was decorated by gentlemen of the profession in their most striking attitude. When these shows are in full swing, it sounds to one standing outside as though sand-bags were being violently brought into contact with the ground. Cheapjacks were pressing their wares in a most enthusiastic manner, and to one unacquainted with the various changes in meaning which can be given to the English language by expression, it would appear that these business-like gentlemen were begging the acceptance of their merchandise rather than desiring payment for the same. A Yorkshire crowd, however, is not so very easily "gulled," and those who did make purchases found that they got no more for a shilling than a shilling’s worth. It was not a little amusing to see certain youths who, having been skilful or lucky enough in some game of casting, throwing, or the like, had been duly awarded with cigars. These they puffed at for a time, until a tremour seized their whole bodies, more especially the legs, until their foreheads were damp with a clammy perspiration, and until they were conscious of a desire to lie down anywhere, mentally resolving never to ape the ways of a man again, and not to do those things which men do until they themselves were men.

The trains to Shipley were practically packed throughout the holidays, and the same may be said of the steam trams from Bradford to Saltaire, not to mention the number of omnibuses, waggonettes, and other kinds of vehicles which were called into requisition to meet the demands of travellers. The highroad and the streets were also alive with pedestrians; the boating at Saltaire was well patronised; the woods and fields were resorted to by many, and it was next to impossible to find something, some form of enjoyment, or some country part in the neighbourhood which had not attracted some holiday-makers.

Friday 12 December 1902 Death of an Old Worthy

About Browgate

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 12 December 1902
Death Old Worthy
By the death of Mr John Bolton, cabinet maker, of Browgate, which occurred on Sunday morning last, one of the oldest and best-known figures in this village has passed away. Mr Bolton had led an active life, and was interested in his business almost to the last. He was highly respected and there was large attendance at the funeral. Born in 1815, if he had lived till February next be would have completed his 88th year. In his duty as undertaker he must have taken part in the last rites for the dead in his native village for over 70 years, and now in his turn he was laid quietly to rest on Wednesday afternoon, near the old Parish Church, the traditions and associations which none knew so well as he. By his death a very interesting link with the Baildon of the past is broken. There have been three generations of Boltons who have carried on the business of joiners in the shop in Browgate, which has been occupied by the family for over 100 years. They came originally from Asquith in Wharfedale. Joseph Bolton, the father of the deceased, lived in Kellcliffe, where John was born. Mr Bolton and his sons have done creditable and painstaking work in the Parish Church and schools at different times. The deceased gentleman built the three mission churches in the parish in the time of the late Mr Ffolliott, and he often referred with pardonable pride to the work he did near the bells on the roof of the Parish Church when in his 81st year. He was always considered an authority in matters of local history, and when in the mood could give entertaining accounts of the conditions of life in the neighbourhood during and even prior to the reign of the late Queen Victoria, and at the recent Coronation festivities some of his interesting reminiscences appeared in the local press. His wife, who died some years ago, was a domestic servant at the Vicarage when Mr Mitton was vicar. She was the second daughter of Mr Gooby, farmer of Haddenham, near Ely. Mr Bolton leaves two sons, Messrs T. and C. Bolton, who are carrying on the business. The vicar (Rev. W. J. Margetts) conducted the burial service. The coffin, which had been made by his sons, was of brown oak.
Among those who were present the funeral were the following:— Mr and Mrs Thomas Bolton, Mr and Mrs Charles Bolton, Mr John and Miss Squires (Ilkley). Mr Arthur Goodhind (Harrogate). Mrs Pemberton (Shipley), Mr Myers Longboltom (Wrose Hill), Mr Hey (Messrs Riddiough & Hey, Shipley), Mr Sam Hanson (Messrs Harrison & Singleton, Bradford). Mr Miles Rhodes and Miss Rhodes (Shipley), Dr MacVie, Mr George Metcalfe. Mr Arthur Prince, Mrs Lease, Miss H. Steele. Mr Jeremiah Garnett (manor bailiff), Mrs Sutcliffe Watson, Mr Thomas Wood, Mr and Mrs F. Botterill, Mrs Myers Mann, Miss Bell, Mr Joseph Mattock, Mr Henry Robinson, Mr J. Jennings, Mr Thompson Hammond, Mr Thomas Hutton. Mr H. Oddy, Mr Taylor Marshall, Mrs Joshua Holmes, Mr J. T. Halliday, Mrs John Lamb. Mrs C. Lupton, Mrs Stirk, Mrs Henry Fryer (Eldwick), Mrs Willis, Mrs A Wright, Mrs James Greaves, Messrs J. H. Jackson. Henry Boyes, Henry Ambler, J. G. Hutton, H. Cockerton, F. H. Martin, J. Boocock. W. Horrocks, J. Lancaster, Fred Gill, James Clough, J. Noble, Walter James, and John Brook.
About 140 persons who had attended the funeral subsequently sat down to tea in the Mechanics Institute.

Friday 12 December 1902 Accident to Plumber

About Shaw Robinson, Jenny Lane, Northgate

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 12 December 1902
Accident to Plumber.
On Friday morning last a young man named Waddington Robinson, son of Councillor Shaw Robinson, who is employed by Mr Joseph Dyson, plumber, was at work on the roof the houses being erected in Jenny Lane, Baildon, for Councillor Rhodes, of Bradford, when owing to the frozen surface of the slates, he slipped, and fell to the ground. Luckily he fell into trench which had been nearly filled with soil, the loose nature of which prevented more serious consequences. There were no bones broken, nor a scratch of any kind as the result of the fall, but the unfortunate young fellow received severe shaking, from which he was unconscious the greater part the day. He was instantly removed to his father’s house near by, and MacVie was sent for. Although still in bed, he is now progressing favourably. 

Friday 17 June 1904 The Old Village Stocks

About Towngate Stocks

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 17 June 1904

BAILDON The Old Village Stocks.

On Wednesday evening week a number of gentlemen visited the Baildon reservoir on the moor with the intention of verifying a statement recently made by Councillor John Wilks, that the old village stocks were in the embankment of the lower reservoir. It was always thought that they were broken up and used for building the reservoir boundary wall. Mr Wilks contradicted this, and said that he had seen them himself on the Monday evening previous to the above visit, and had removed the turf so that they coaid be seen by anyone. Mr Wilks said that his father, the late Mr James Wilks, remembered seeing them put in near the surface, and had described to him many a time the place where they would be found. Mr Henry Greenwood informed Mr Scruton of this. Scruton is just now interesting himself in the past history of the parish, and he said he would like to know for a certainty whether these old relics were in existence. Accordingly these two gentlemen, along with Mr George E. Robinson (chairman of the District Council) and one or two others, carefully inspected the stonework exposed by Mr Wilks, and expressed their opinion that they were genuine. Baildonians will be glad to hear that the stocks are in good state of preservation, and that there is a fair prospect of their being replaced in their old position. It is understood that Mr Robinson is going to make a proposal to that effect at the next Council meeting.

Councillor Wilks says that he can just remember them being in the Town Gate, and can recollect seeing the boys play leap-frog over the two uprights from the steps of the old cross on that side nearest the Angel Inn. The lads used to stand on the step of the cross and rest their hands on the uprights.

There has been dispute during the week as to who was the last person to be confined in this old-fashioned way. It was supposed by many to have been coal hawker from Wibsey, but others say it was a Shipley man named Throup Lilley, a carter, who lived in Piccadilly, and died only about three years since. However, the neighbours sympathised with the man in his predicament, and brought him refreshment. One kind old woman who had served him with tea kept saying to him, "Aye, Maister, ahm sewer they cannot put ye in here,” to which the unfortunate man replied, Aye, Missis, ye all say so, but see I amhere.” It was a bitterly cold day in March, and on the recommendation of Dr Steel, aworthy old medico who is still kindly remembered in the town, who protested against such barbarous treatment, the man, who ever he may have been, was liberated.

Friday 19 October 1917, Golden Wedding at Baildon

About The Junction Pub landlord John Watmough

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 19 October 1917

Golden Wedding at Baildon

Mr. and Mrs. John Watmough, of the Junction Hotel, Baildon Bridge, celebrated their golden wedding on Friday, when they entertained a number of relatives and friends.
The aged couple were recipients of many hearty congratulations on this auspicious occasion. Both of them are natives of Tong Park, Baildon, and both are sixty-nine years of age. For many years Mr. Watmough was an engine at a Shipley Mill, and for a short period was in the police force.
There are eleven children of the marriage - five sons and six daughters. These are Mr. Teddie Watmough, Carr Lane, Windhill; Mr. Harry Watmough, Windsor Road, Shipley; Mr. Walter Watmough, Merton Street, Shipley; Mr. Willie Watmough, Otley Road, Baildon Woodbottom; Pte. Harold Watmough, R.F.A., who is in training; Mrs. Harry Bailey, Carr Lane, Windhill; Mrs. Alfred Priestley, Redburn Road, Shipley; Mrs. J. Tordoff, Halifax; Mrs. Harry Brogden, Redburn Road, Shipley; Mrs. Ernest Houghton, whose husband is with the forces in France; and Miss Lily Watmough. There are twenty-one grandchildren.

Friday 7 November 1919, Buff Funeral for a Woodbottom Man

About The Junction Pub landlord John Watmough

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 7 November 1919

"BUFF" Funeral for a Woodbottom Man

The death took place at the Junction Hotel, Woodbottom, Baildon, on October 28th, of Mr. John Watmough, who for the past fourteen years had been the licencee. A Tong Park man, he was 71 years of age.
He came to Shipley about 40 years ago, and was for over 20 yearsw employed as an engineer at Messrs. Weatherhead's, Cromwell Road. He was a Primo of The Old Ash Tree Lodge of the Shipley R.A.O.B., which he jopined eight years ago. His death was the result of a paralytic stroke, and he had been ill for six weeks.
The internment took place at Nab Wood Cemetery, Shipley, on Saturday, the service being conducted by Mr. B. Halliday (of the Mission Church, Woodbottom), while Bro. W. Gardiner (chaplain of the Buffaloes for the year), read the Buffs' special burial service, and a broken ring of "Buffs" was formed round the grave. The bearers were six Buffaloes: Bros. Addyman, Baines, Binns, Cordingley, Eastwood, and Vickerman.
The family mourners were Mrs. Watmough, wife; Mr. H. Watmough, son; Mr. and Mrs. Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. Priestley, Mr. and Mrs. Tordoff, Mr. and Mrs. Haughton, Mr. and Mrs. Milnes, daughters and sons-in-law; Mrs. C. Brogden, daughter; Mr. and Mrs. W. Watmough, Mr. and Mrs. T. Watmough, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Watmough, sons and daughters-n-law; Misses L. and G. Bailey, Misses A. and H. Watmough, and Master Willie Watmough, grand-children; Mr. and Mrs. J. Watmough, Mrs. Watmough, Mr. F. Bradley, Mesdames A. Rawlings and C Robinson, nephews and nieces; Mr. and Mrs. J. Heywood, brother-in-law and sister-in-law; and Mr. S. Shackleton, brother-in-law. The Shipley R.A.O.B. were represented by Bros. Unwin, Burnell, Frear, Franks, Gardiner, Graham, Harker, Johnson, Lund, Myers, Naylor, Pollard, Pickard, Page, Pigersgill, Rawnsley, Russell, Sunley, Smith, Sutcliffe, Stansfield, Thomas, Waddington, and Wilkinson. The floral tributes included: "In loving memory of my dear husband; gone but not fogotten, from his wife Fanny"; "In loving memory of our dear father, from Beatrice and Alfred"; "With deepest sympathy from Clara and son Jack"; "In loving memory, from his son Harold, and Sarah"; "A token of love to father, from Walter, Lizzie, and Florence"; "In loving memory, from Willie, Ada, and family"; "With love and sympathy, from Maude and Ernest, Rennie and Baby"; "In loving memory, from Teddy, Lily, and family"; "With deepest sympathy, from Annie, Harry, and family"; "In loving memory, from Jos. Emily"; "In loving memory of our dear Uncle, from Jack and Pollie"; "With deepest sympathy, from the members of the R.A.O.B., Old Ash Tree Lodge"; "With deepest sympathy from Hammond's Brewery"; "With deepest sympathy, from F. Hutton"; "With deepest sympathy from Mrs. Mawson and family"; "With deepest sympathy, from Mrs. Bland."
Messrs. Fawcett and Halliday carried out the funeral arrangements.

Friday 01 June 1923 Stocks

About Towngate Stocks

Shipley Times and Express - Friday 01 June 1923

Baildon people are proud of their ancient stocks and lamp-post in the Market Place.

A few days ago the stocks were knocked down by a runaway horse. They have, however, been repaired, and once more adorn the Market Place.

It will be recalled that the stocks were lost for several years. And it was not until 1904 that they were discovered embedded in the waterworks and restored to their original site by the then Chairman of the Council (Mr. G. E. Robinson).

Saturday 08 October 1927 A BAILDON LANDMARK

About the Potted Meat Stick

The images in the Newspaper Archive are difficult to read in some areas and the illegible or guessed areas are in italics except for the letter from Col. Maude which was legible but is in italics to separate it from the rest of the text. Note that the letter was read out during the meeting.

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 08 October 1927

A BAILDON LANDMARK

COUNCIL'S PROPOSAL TO REMOVE FOUNTAIN

RATEPAYERS' KEEN OPPOSITION

ARMISTICE AT PROTEST MEETING

From time to time there have been things to relieve the tedium of life in Baildon. Ratepayers recall the great enthusiasm that was evoked when the suggestion of the incorporation of Baildon with Bradford was being discussed; then there were the reservoir ?????? the proposal to have Sunday golf ?????? Baildon Moor controversies. But ?????? the greatest interest of all has been aroused by the proposal of the Urban Council to remove the memorial fountain from Towngate to Baildon Moor.

??????? was decided on as long ago as ?????ry 22 and discussions have on ??????s occasions taken place by the ?????? on the subject. It was not, however, until the contract was signed for the removal of the fountain to be ???????enced that public opposition was ??????? to such a degree that a publicc meeting against the Council's. decision was called: and for the time ????? the removal of the fountain is in ?????. It is quite probable, indeed, ????? the fountain, which was given to Baildon by Mr. Richard Paul Amphlett for his wife, Frances, in 1862, in memory of Mrs. Amphlett's mother, will remain ????? ????? historic landmark in Towngate.

REQUEST FOR TOWN'S MEETING.

????? day following that on which the ????? was signed for the removal of ???? fountain the Clerk (Mr. R. Howard ????? received a petition containing ????? signatures requesting the Chairman of the Council (Mr. A. Greenwood) to convene a town's meeting for the purpose of ascertaining the general feeling the ratepayes on the Council's decision.

In view of this petition a meeting of the Urban Council was held (in committee) on Friday night.

At the close the Clerk informed our representative that the meeting had been held to consider a petition signed by nnn property-owners and ratepayers of Baildon, that the fountain in Towngate should not be removed.

He said the Council had passed a resolution recommending the Chairman not to accede to the request for a town's meeting.

"There appears to be great consternation." added Mr Moore, "in view of the fact that the contractor for the removal andre-erection of the fountain has actually prepared a site on Baildon Moor for the reception of the monument which it is his intention to demolish on Monday.

During the time the Council meeting was being held the petitioners also held a meeting in the Mechanics' Institute to await the decision of the Council. They thought that the Council would favourably consider their application, but in view of the Council's decision nothing definite was arranged that evening. On Saturday the petitioners decided to call a ratepayers protest meeting, to be held in the Moravian school on Monday evening.

CONTRACTORS BEGIN REMOVAL

Meanwhile the decision of the Council was being carried into effect. Shortly before 10-30 on Monday morning a group of residents were to be seen discussing the probable situation when they were amazed at the arrival of a motor car and a huge lorry conveying the tackle to be used by the contractors (Messrs. C. Dawson & Co., Lidget Green) for the purpose of dismantling the fountain. The tackle consisted of a large and small crane, a windlass, several chains, and ?ones. These were quickly taken from the lorry, and seven or eight men at once commenced with the preliminaries of the demolition of the fountain. While the work was being executed several groups were pronounced their various views.

A supporter of the opposition declared : "It is a shame, and the Council ought to wait until after the meeting to meet." Standing near were several supporters of the opposition, who were in entire agreement with their friend's observations. They were, however, rather annoyed when one of the number essayed to champion the cause of the Council. He said that the Council's decision to pull down the fountain was made so far back as January 22, and the opposition had had plenty of time between now and then. To a prominent supporter of the opposition he said "I'll tell tha what. Tha's waited until 'hoss has gone afore tha’s put 'lock on't stable door, and it sarves tha reight."

LORD OF THE MANOR’S VISIT.

In reply to a telephone communication from Mr. F. H. Richardson (who is acting solicitor to the opposition) leut.-Col. W. W. Maude, the Lord of the Manor, also visited Baildon during the morning. Accompanied by Mr. Richardson and Mr. W. M. Marsden, (Manor bailiff to the Bradford Corporation, and steward for Col. Maude) he visited the site on Baildon Moor where it was proposed to re-erect the fountain. The site is situated near the main road at a point opposite the Baildon Golf House. Several members of the opposition group and a number of freeholders also accompanied them on their tour of inspection. Later. Col. Maude visited the Council offices and had an interview with the Clerk with a view, it is understood, of trying to persuade the Council to defer the removal of the fountain, however the Clerk declined to make a statement.

OPPOSITION STRENGTHENED

A prominent member of opposition told our representative that the preparation for demolishing the fountain had ????? to strengthen their determination ????? "We are more anxious the ever" he said "to put a spoke in the Council's wheel. They are saying we are making too much fuss over the cost of ?????. But we are of opinion that the expense of removing the fountain wil be nothing compared with the expense of making good the road afterwards. There is the beck running under the fountain, and ??? ??? ??? that it will cost hundreds of pounds' to make the road over it strong enough to bear the weight of the buses. ??????' he said: "Quite apart from that, we think that the logical ???? of any removal is at the other side of the square in accordance with the Council's town planning scheme."

THE CLERK INTERVIEWED
Our representative sought an interview with the Clerk of the Council (Mr. R. Howard Moore). by whom he was received with every courtesy. He said he could not say anything beyond the fact that the matter had been thoroughly debated and nothing could be done by him. "I have no instructions." he said. "And all I can say now is that the Council met last Friday night and decided that they could not agree to the request of the petition to call a town's meeting."

Asked for his views regarding the ????? meeting, Mr Moore replied, "I ????? that the gentlemen who have called the meeting will pass certain resolutions but I am not concerned in any way, neither shal I be there. I have plenty of work to do, and I shall ????? engaged upon very important ??? night. Furthermore, I don't see why I should go.

Mr Moore was asked if he thought some of the councillors would be present at the meeting, to which he replied, "I ????? they will please themselves."

On leaving Baildon our representative observed several groups of residents who appeared to still discussing the situation with animation. It was obvious that there was apparently a good deal of ill-feeling on both sides, but it looked then, despite this feeling, that within a few hours Towngate would be deprived of the fountain as its present place. Interesting developments, however, followed at the protest meeting, the proceedings of which are reported below.

THE PROTEST MEETING

Long before the time announced for commencement of the protest meeting, which was held in the Maravian school, Baildon, there was every indication that opposition was not confined to the 66 signatories who had been unsuccessful in their request for the Council to call a town's meeting.

The school was filled to its utmost capacity, and it was stated that there was quite a large number who were unable to obtain admittance. The vicar (the Rev A. E. Sidebotham) was an ideal chairman and showed that he possessed a fund of humour. Included on the platform were Mr. F. H. Richardson (solicitor for the opposition) Mr. H. Gill, Dr. W. Firth (Medical Officer of Health), Mr. G. H. Isitt, and several residents.

 At the outset Mr. Richardson pointed out the legality of the meeting, and remarked that only local government electors would be allowed to vote. It was not, he said, a statutory meeting in the sense that a town's meeting might be requisitioned by 20 ratepayers requesting the Chairman of the Council to call a meeting. The meeting however, had been called for reasons known to all of them by the Baildon electors to have a friendly discussion on a topic which was of great public interest and of great public importance.

 Mr Richardson then read the following letter which had been sent to the chairman of the meeting from Lieut.-Col W. W. Maude:

 I have been asked to express an opinion with regard to the removal of the Memorial Fountain from the Market Square to the Baildon Moor. It may be said that I have no locus standi in expressing an opinion, but as I have always taken the greatest interest in Baildon I venture on this occasion to say that the removal of such a monument should only be made upon grounds of urgent public utility.

 I always think it is a pity that public memorials such as this, which in a way constitute a landmark in the history of the toen, should be removed without a very clear case being made for the necessity.

 This momument was put up by a wellknown and influential Baildon family (through Lord Justice Amphlett) in memory of their relation and for the benefit of the town at the time. It has been an ornament to the town for a period of nearly 70 years, and has been well-known to every inhabitant of Baildon during that time.

 It appears to me that if it were removed on to the Moor atmospheric conditions might soon cause it to deterioate.

 I understand that the sole cause of its being removed is to make way for bus traffic.

 It is doubtful whether it would be an advantage to have the bus terminus in the middle of such a small square, as it might lead to danger to people using the square and also getting on to the buses.

 I do hope that this matter will receive further consideration by the Council, and that they will also consider all the points raised in your meeting.

THE VICAR’S SUGGESTION.

The Vicar said felt in a somewhat unique position. He was surprised that he was there, because he had hoped to be listening to some grand opera in London, but instead he was going to hear the sound of other voices, and, he hoped, quite as harmonious as those he had intended to hear. "I feel I ought to be present," said, both as a rate-payer, and also Vicar of the parish. I feel this is matter in which every person should take an interest. I was going through the Towngate about a couple of hours ago and I saw they had put the finishing touches on the scaffolding, but I thought it looked more like a guillotine. (Laughter.)

The Vicar stated that he spoke to man regarding what he thought about the removal of the fountain, and the man replied, "I doant care where they tak' it.” (laughter). He, however, deprecated the spirit of don't care, which if carried to its logical conclusion was responsible for a good deal of misery and poverty in this world. He considered everyone should take care in changes that were of supreme importance.

Continuing the Vicar said that he desired to say with every respect that members of the Urban Council had a very difficult position to occupy. Indeed, there was no other body of men who were more criticised, but these men came forward and sacrificed their time and labour in order to try to improve the conditions of the people amongst whom they lived. They were men who were animated with keen sense of public duty. If had been councillor, he would have asked himself whether they had got the permission the descendants of the donors of the fountain to remove the fountain. It was perfectly legitimate and natural question.

When he wanted to erect a bell tower in the church there was a grave belonging the Butler family, of Kirkstall affected, and before he commenced the work he went to Kirkstall forge to see one of the Butlers on the matter. Lieut.-Col. Maude had also told him that at Skipton there was a statue of the late Sir Matthew Wilson that encroached somewhat on the Towngate, but before it was removed application was made of the relatives of the late Sir Matthew Wilson.

The second question he would ask himself was whether the proposed removal was the best solution to the problem. In his opinion it was not, and he would suggest that the motor park be established in the new road which led to the Council's houses. That would take the buses out of Market Square (applause). If they removed the fountain he contended that they would still have the same congestion in the Towngate which was a menace to the health and the lives of the people in that parish. If perchance there was some serious or fatal accident there was no doubt about it that the defect would be remedied.

In justice to the Council the Vicar said the protest had been somewhat delayed (cheers). It was many months since the Council had passed their resolution to proceed with this work.

A voice : January.

LATE OPPOSITION.

The Vicar said that as far as he could gather there had been no vocal or very pronounced opposition until after the Council had decided, in their opinion, that this was the best solution and they had got someone on the job to start demolishing the fountain. He hoped, however, that their discussion would leave no bitterness behind. He recalled the opposition meeting to Bradfords request for the incorporation of Baildon, and observed that he had been to many a pantomime but characterised it as the funniest meeting he had ever been at (laughter). In appealing for the meeting to be carried on in a seemly manner, the Vicar expressed the hope that they would look back upon that meeting as a little episode that had created a certain amount of interest, which would show that the people of Baildon were not devoid of a sense of public duty or civic pride.

THE RESOLUTION.

Mr. Robinson then read the following resolution : This meeting of electors of the urban district of Baildon and of freeholders of the manor of Baildon hereby strongly protests against the removal from its present position of the public fountain in the Market Place and requests the Baildon Urban District Council to reconsider their present decision to remove such fountain, some the reasons for such request being as follows :

(а) Great and unnecessary expense (£75 for the removal of the fountain and subsequently hundreds of pounds in making good the present site and making Market Square fit to bear the weight of motor omnibuses).

(b) The removal of the fountain will destroy the existing safety zone and leave the Market Square more dangerous than present. This meeting foresees that if the fountain be removed and the omnibuses continue to start from the Market Place it will become little more than a parking place for motors. 

(c) The omnibuses should not start from the now existing starting place but nearer the moors — one suitable place being the road to the Council’s housing site which road could if necessary be widened at its junction with Northgate by the pulling down of property already owned the Council.

(d) The fountain is a landmark in the history of Baildon. It was presented to the public by people who in other ways benefited Baildon, and whose name is worthy of memory and preservation in the manner originally intended by them. The fountain should only be removed in the event of some scheme of real public utility.

(e) The removal of the fountain will take away from the appearance of the Market Place as the fountain, the old stocks, and the market cross now produce an effect not often found in the vicinity.

In proposing the resolution Mr. H. Gill said he thought it would be little less than a scandal if the fountain was removed, unless the families of those who had presented it were consulted in the matter.

A TOUGH BATTLE.

Mr. A. Copley (a member of the Baildon Urban Council), seconded the resolution. He said he was present not as a councillor but as a freeholder, and during the whole of the discussion by the Council with regard to the removal of the fountain he perhaps had been in an isolated position in opposing the resolution from the beginning. (Cheers.) It had been a tough battle, and although he was in a minority he did not wish at that stage to say a single unkind word of his colleagues on the Council who happened to be in the majority, but he wanted to take it with good grace. One of the main reasons, he said, for asking for the fountain to removed was that it would give a wider space to the buses. He remembered taking up the argument that there would be more danger in wider spaces than in narrow areas. He declared that the majority of the Council were firm in their determination that the fountain shall be removed at all costs. If that meeting, he said, had been called earlier, it would have strengthened the minority on the Council.

TOWN PLANNING SCHEME.

"Perhaps you are not aware," added Mr. Copley, "that have a scheme that was formed by the late Mr. W. E. Rhodes —all honour to him— and his colleagues at that time for a town-planning scheme which provided for a 50 feet road round by the Towngate. I believe myself it will a fine scheme and I shall support it." (Applause.) Replying to a question, Mr. Copley said that the resolution passed by the Council that the fountain "had got go" was not unanimous.

BAILOON MOOR SITE

Someone asked if it was right that the fountain could not be removed on to Baildon Moor.

Mr. Richardson : You are going into something that I did not really want to mention. At the same time will answer it. It seems to me that the fountain will not be allowed to be erected on the Moor (loud applause).

Mr. Copley : Perhaps I can throw a little light on that. The Bradford Corporation have only given a verbal agreement, subject to no objection from the rightful people. Whoever they are I don't know, but it is subject to three months' notice to be removed if such objections are raised.

Dr. Firth (Medical Officer of Health) said thought it was a great mistake on the part of the Council not to have asked the descendants of the donors of the fountain if they were willing for the fountain to be taken away. 

Mr. G. W. Isitt spoke on behalf of the newcomers to Baildon, and recalled that as a boy he admired the fountain and buttercross at Baildon, and expressed a desire that when he grew older he would like to live at Baildon, and had no doubt there were others who were residing in Baildon for similar reasons. There was no wonder that the older people of Baildon who remembered the fountain as children, who used to play around it, felt very strongly against it being removed. He, however, totally disagreed with the Council in their objection to the fountain being a danger. He had read statistics which showed that the bulk of the accidents had occurred in wider streets and roads: the congested areas were practically immune from accidents for the simple reason that people were more careful. He considered that one of the arguments, used by the Council for the fountain's removal fell to the ground. He did not want say any bitter things about the Council but he pointed out that the Council and the opposition looked upon this matter from different view points. He was very much surprised at the attitude they had taken in regard to this matter, as they had ignored and set at defiance the wishes of the ratepayers of Baildon (applause).

The Vicar, in closing the discussion, said he thought he had given them a fair chance to ventilate their own expressions. He had had a proposer and seconder to the resolution, which he was going to ask them to vote upon.

At this stage Mr. Arthur Greenwood, chairman of the Baildon Urban Council, attended the meeting, and at the request of the Vicar, addressed the gathering.

A PEACE MOVE.

Mr. Greenwood, who received cordial reception, said that he had been doing his best to avoid any trouble, but there were some things that had been said that were not kind, not truthful, and not friendly. Some of the people who had signed the petition for a town's meeting had stated that he had power to stop these proceedings. This was not the case. The Chairman of an Urban Council had no power to alter the decision of the Council. When he was requested to call a town’s meeting he did not think that the onus of responsibility regarding the removal or otherwise of the fountain should fall upon him, and convened a special meeting of the Council, who recommended him not to accede to the request.

Mr. Greenwood pointed out that the decision to remove the fountain was made by the Council last January, and re-affirmed last Friday evening.

He had hoped to be at the meeting earlier, he was not afraid of meeting the ratepayers of Baildon (cheers). Since he had received their petition asking for the work of dismantling to be delayed he had spent his time hunting up the councillors. He had seen all except one—and he knew that he was favourable —and he had persuaded them to let the matter stand in abeyance for the time being (prolonged cheers). Something would have to be done to solve the Towngate problem, however, and it now lay with the opposition to suggest a scheme which would not involve too groat an expense which would fill the desired object. He hoped, moreover, that the ratepayers of Baildon would give the councillors credit for their sincerity in all they did. He was not a native Baildon, and he had been shouted at to get back to Bradford. He might tell them that he did not come from Bradford; he came from Halifax.

Mr. Greenwood added that he had been in Baildon quarter of century, and he assured them that he and his colleagues were doing their best in the interests of Baildon.

The Vicar thanked Mr. Greenwood, and observed that in the circumstances; he thought the Council were adopting a very reasonable attitude. The resolution was then put and carried unanimously. The meeting concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, Mr. Greenwood (who is a local organist) presiding at the piano.

31 August 1929 Stocks

About Towngate Stocks

Shipley Times and Express, 31 August 1929

Baildon Stocks

The old Baildon stocks, which are so well known to visitors, and which lend pleasant air of antiquity to the village, are in danger of disappearing piecemeal. They appear to be the victim of malignant fate.

Some time ago, it will be recalled, one of the stone pillars was knocked down and broken by a brewer’s dray. For some reason this pillar was replaced by new piece stone.

Now the remaining original pillar has become a casualty, as on Tuesday night another motor vehicle backed into it and broke it off the base.

If this also is replaced by new stone not a fragment the original stocks will remain, and Baildon will probably be the only village in England able to boast of an almost brand new set of stocks.

Saturday 01 February 1930 LATE MR. H. TAYLOR

About Hassie Taylor, Baildon Working Mens Club & 11a Westgate

LATE MR. H. TAYLOR.
The death of Mr. Hassie Taylor, who resided at 11, Westgate, Baildon, deprives the Baildon Working Men’s Club of one its most energetic workers and helpers. In the early days of the club it was largely through the efforts of Mr. Taylor and other workers that the club was piloted through a difficult part of its history and brought to its present successful position. He was connected with the club since its beginning in 1892 and was for many years trustee.

The funeral took place at Charlestown Cemetery on Monday, when the Rev. Adcock officiated. Officials and members of the Working Men’s Club attended the service.

Saturday 22 June 1935 DISCOVERY OF TUDOR STONE FIRE PLACE

About Towngate House

Shipley Times and Express - Saturday 22 June 1935 
ANOTHER BAILDON ANTIQUE.
DISCOVERY OF TUDOR STONE FIRE PLACE.
The antiquity of many of the buildings of Baildon cannot be disputed, and despite the many discoveries that have been made, new finds are still being brought to light. Strangely enough, the latest discovery has been made in one of the district’s best-known buildings in the very centre of Baildon. While the drawing room walls of Towngate House were being stripped preparation for re-decoration a square of canvas was removed behind which was found a very fine example of a Tudor stone fireplace. Little is known concerning the history of this house, which is the property of the Baildon Urban Council and is present the residence of Mr. R. Howard Moore, the Clerk to the Council. However, the fireplace is thought to be of sixteenth century workmanship, and is very similar to one in the Malt Shovel Inn, on the opposite side of Moorgate. It is therefore to be assumed that the two were built at the same time, and probably formed part of one estate. Some time during last century an iron grate was fitted, but the Council, on Tuesday night, decided to restore the fireplace, and furthermore authorised the necessary repairs and works to be carried out to make the room harmonise with its newly-discovered feature.

Wednesday 18 August 1943. Where to buy Shipley Times and Express. 1 1/2d.

• T Bottomley, Towngate, Baildon.
• Kettlewell, Station Road Post Officce
• Goddard, Newsagent, Green Lane.

Wednesday 16 February 1949 Future of Baildon Station

About Baildon station

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 16 February 1949
Future of Baildon Station
Following up rumours that British Railways were contemplating closing down Baildon station, the Urban Council have been in communication with the District Passenger Manager at Leeds City Station.
At last night's meeting of Baildon Urban Council, the Clerk (Mr. R. Howard Moore) read the reply that Baildon station, along with many others, was subject to an annual review concerning its economic position, and that no decision had been reached regarding closing it.
The District Passenger Manager added that if the position eventually reached the closing stage, they had his assurance that, before any action was taken, the opportunity would be afforded Baildon Council of presenting their views.

Wednesday 02 March 1949 THEIR ROMANCE BEGAN AT BAILDON

About Joyce Coutu

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 02 March 1949
THEIR ROMANCE BEGAN AT BAILDON
During the Nazi occupation of the Channel Islands, Miss J. Coutu and Mr. Louis Keutzer found refuge for five years in Baildon. Mr. Keutzer worked for the Airedale Combing Company, and joined in local football. Miss Coutu worked at Baildon Post Office, and, in off-duty hours, entertained with "The Sparklets." They first met at Baildon. Now, from the Channel Islands, comes the announcement that Mr. Keutzer and Miss Coutu are engaged to be married. (Photo by Happy Snaps Guernsey, C.I)

Joyce Coutu engagement

Wednesday 18 March 1953 Guernsey Wedding with a Baildon Link

About Joyce Coutu

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 18 March 1953
Guernsey Wedding with a Baildon Link
Two former residents of Baildon were married at St. Samson Church, Guernsey, on February 28. The bride was Miss Joyce Coutu, only daughter Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Coutu, of St. Sampson’s, Guernsey, and the bridegroom was Mr. Louis Keutzer, eldest son of Mrs. D. Keutzer. of Gwynfa. St. John s, St. Peter Port. The ceremony was performed the Rev. Clive Penn.

The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a gown of while satin, with a train. Her net veil was figured with bouquets attached to a net halo with feather trimming, and she carried a heartshaped bouquet of dark red carnations.

The matron of honour, Mrs. Blanche Tobel (friend of the bride) and the chief bridesmaid, Miss Joy Ogier (bride’s cousin) wore off the-shoulder dresses of white cloque and tulle, with red roses at the bodice, and carried muffs to match their dresses. The bridesmaid Miss Ann Le Vasseur (bride’s cousin) and the flower girl, Miss Jacqueline Keutzer (bridegroom's niece) wore dresses of white crepe-de-chine trimmed with red, mauve and pink anemones. The pageboy, John Bihet (bride’s cousin) wore a white satin suit.

Mr. William Tobel (friend) was best man. and the groomsman was Mr Gordon Coutu (brother of the bride). The ushers were Mr. Derek Carteret and Mr. Barry Toms. After the ceremony a reception was held at  L'ancresse Lodge Hotel.

Joyce Coutu Marriage

Wednesday 06 April 1955 Baildon News

About Shipley Glen Tramway, Baildon Picture House

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 06 April 1955

BAILDON NEWS

NEW BAILDON LIBRARY
Since its opening last Thursday afternoon, a large number of Baildon residents have had an opportunity of viewing the new county library premises, under the Picture House Cafe. Compared with the previous library, the first aspect which strikes the borrower is the greatly increased floorspace, thus avoiding the crush which at busy times was previously inevitable. The number of books in stock have been greatly increased, and the same arrangement has been followed as before, of placing a section of fiction books between general works. A new form of shelves are in use, which slightly tip the books backward, thus enabling borrowers to see the titles with greater ease. Two spaces have been laid aside for special subject displays, which will be changed as often as practicable. This week they are on painters and painting, and on crafts. The reference section is placed near a desk, with two comfortable leather desk chairs, where one can sit while making notes, but perhaps the greatest improvement of all is in the children's section. They now have their own special corner of the library, at least twice as many books as before, and a special low, circular bench on which they can sit while choosing their books.

BRING AND BUY SALE
Charlestown Methodist Sisterhood devoted their weekly meeting last Tuesday to a bring and buy sale which raised a sum of £7 14s. 6d. on behalf of women work in Overseas Missions. Mrs. S. Robinson presided, and the opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. Stephenson, of Baildon. Mrs. J. Gelder was the soloist, with Mrs. Whitfield at the piano. Afternoon tea was served by the members.

RAN GLEN TRAMWAY
The death took place in hospital last Thursday, of Mr. John Edward Woodhead, (79) of 3, Pennithorne Avenue, Baildon. Many years ago he ran the Glen Tramway, taking over from its founder, Mr. Sam Wilson.

CRICKET PRACTICE
Baildon Cricket Club start practice on Saturday afternoon, and give a hearty welcome to old and new members to come along.

CO-OP WOMEN'S GUILD.
Mrs. Small, one of their District Members, gave an address on "Low Prices and Low Dividends" to Baildon Co-operative Women's Guild last Tuesday. She suggested that Societies' should be more competitive, because even when goods were dear there was no more profit. The Guild movement set out to raise the standard of living, and years ago mothers used to look forward to getting their "divi" to buy their own and their children's clothes. This state of affairs did not apply today in such a marked degree. She urged them to try to increase their membership. A vote of thanks was moved by Mrs. Binns, and seconded by Mrs. H. Robinson. The weekly competition for a prize given by Mrs. Craven, was won by Mrs. Scholes. In the weekly whist drive on Thursday the following were the winners. 1, Mrs, Goldsbrough, 2, Mrs. Andrews; consolation. Mrs. Sampson. The monthly whist drive was held on Saturday, and the results were; 1. Mrs. Coleman; 2. Mrs. Bailey; consolation, Mrs. Craven.

TRADERS SOCIAL
At the request of their Baildon members, Shipley and Baildon District Traders' Association held a social event at Baildon Picture House Ballroom on Wednesday last. The whist drive and dance they arranged was a great success, the Association's events invariably are, a capacity attendance supporting it. Mr. Wilkinson Smith was M.C. for whist, and prizes were won by: Ladies: 1, Mrs. G. E. Frye; 2, Mrs Hutton. Men: 1, Mr. A. Stubbs; 2. Mrs.(sic) Ray. In the ballroom, Tom Cheetham and his quartet played for dancing. Excellent arrangements had been made for the event by the Association's president, Mr. G. Outhwaite; secretary. Mr. Clive Webster; and committee. Out of the proceeds a donation has been made to the Baildon Appeal on behalf of the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund.

TOTAL ABSTINENCE
Baildon branch of the National British Women's Total Abstinence Union met in the choir vestry of the Westgate Methodist Church yesterday afternoon, when they heard an address from Mrs. Harlock of Huddersfield.

WESTGATE SISTERHOOD
Mrs. Herrington gave an address on devotional subjects to Baildon Westgate Methodist Sisterhood last Wednesday. Mrs. Craven presided, and the singing was accompanied by Mrs. C. Bottomley. The ladies the choir gave two items.

WORKING MEN'S CLUB
Entertainment was provided for members of Baildon Working Men's Club on Saturday evening, by Hope and Smart.

VETERANS' MEETING
Mr. Charles Cooper, of Baildon visited Baildon Veterans' Association meeting yesterday afternoon and gave an address on "Tittle Tattle." Mrs Bridgeford sang solos, accompanied by Mrs. P. Speight. The meeting was led by the Chaplain, Mr. Milton Harrison, supported by the Association's chairman, Mr. J. Walker. There will be no meeting next week, owing to the Easter holiday, and on the following Tuesday, the speaker will be the Rev. Arthur Ayre. Eccleshil, Methodist minister.

GOLF CLUB
The monthly bogey competition was played at Baildon Golf Club on Saturday afternoon, and the following were the winners: 1st. division: J. Senior, one down. 2nd. division: R. Black, one down; W. Petty, one down; W. L. Terry, one down. Mr. Petty qualified for the annual bogey on the last eight holes, one up. On the previous Sunday, four ball medal competition was played over 16 holes. Results were: H. Abbott and H. Wilkinson 54: S. Ballantyne and R. Walker, 57. On Wednesday there was a good attendance at a film show arranged by the social secretary. Mr. A. Pellltt, and Mr. L. Andrews. Three travel films loaned by British Railways were followed by a Dunlop film, "King of Golf," featuring Bobby Locke.

YOUNG BRITONS
Miss Audrey Simpson, Shipley Conservative Woman organiser, gave an address on "Coal Mining" to Baildon Young Britons last Wednesday. She spoke of the various processes which she had seen in the mines she had visited in Sheffield, her home town, and described the cages and conveyor belts. She gave detailed descriptions of how seams were worked, and how they were sealed when exhausted. She referred to dangerous gases in the mines, and ended by contrasting present day conditions under which miners worked, with those of former days. The children were very interested and asked many questions. Mrs. W. C. Burnett (chairman) showed illustrations from book on mining. The evening ended with handwork and a game.

MEN'S FIRESIDE
Baildon Westgate Methodist Men's Fireside held their annual meeting on Thursday evening, when excellent reports were received of the year's work. The following officers were elected: President, the Rev. S. Crowther; vice-president, Mr. W. Angless; secretary, Mr. H. Carbutt: treasurer, Mr. F. Lawson; lanternist, Mr. J. Whitehead: committee, Messrs. H. Goldsborough, Prince, France, H. W. Bridgford and Helm. It was reported that arrangements have been made for members to be shown over East Riddlesden Hall April 21.

Death of 2nd owner

Wednesday 26 September 1956 100 YEARS AGO THERE WAS TROUBLE IN BAILDON OVER THE "TWO LOOM" SYSTEM

About Baildon Bridge

This article from the 1956 paper is reporting on an article from the paper 50 years earlier (1906) that was reporting on a riot at Baildon Bridge Mill 50 years before that - 1856.

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 26 September 1956
100 YEARS AGO THERE WAS TROUBLE IN BAILDON OVER THE "TWO LOOM" SYSTEM
 
From our files of Sept. 28, 1906

How many people are there in Baildon who recollect the riots which took place at Baildon Bridge Mills when the "two loom" system was commenced? Yet it is exactly fifty years ago to-morrow (Saturday) since the exciting event happened. Alluding to the old Baildon Bridge Mill, it is recorded, “It was formerly an old corn mill, and in it were stocks for cloth fulling. The old mill being destroyed by fire large additions were made in rebuilding it, and machinery was introduced for the manufacture of goods for the Bradford market. Mr. C. F. Taylor was the first tenant, but the opening was very discouraging. Mr. Taylor commenced what was known as the "two loom" system, but his workpeople being equally determined not to "mind" two looms, and a very serious riot took place. On September 29, 1856, two thousand spectators having assembled in front of the premises, the windows were smashed, attacks were made on Mr. Taylor, and some of the workpeople were waylaid and ill-treated, the end being that several were imprisoned and the "two loom” system carried out. One part of the mill is still used as a Corn mill; the other in the worsted manufacture.

There are Baildonians living who well remember the disturbances of September 1856. It is said that every window in the mill was smashed by the mob. Stones were plentiful, for the Local Board of the time had just mended the road approaching Baildon Bridge, and women filled their aprons with stones for the men to throw. On one occasion Mr. Taylor happened to be in the mill, and when the excited crowd heard of it they surrounded the building and created great disturbance. Mr. Taylor only escaped with his life by getting across the "goit" of the river to his brother's house near Junction Mills. On the occasion of the riot one of the villagers obtained a horse and riding bareback to Bradford summoned a magistrate who came and read the Riot Act.

Wednesday 23 January 1957 BAILDON STATION TO BE REOPENED

About Baildon station

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 23 January 1957
BAILDON STATION TO BE REOPENED
As a result of the oil and petrol shortage, British Railways have announced the re-opening of Baildon Station temporarily as from Monday, January 28, for local bookings to Bradford and Ilkley and intermediate stations.
The station was closed in January 1953 for economic reasons, but since petrol rationing was introduced some local residents have been pressing for its reopening.
The limes of trains will be:—
To Shipley and Bradford 7-58, 8-38, 9-8, 9-49 a.m. and 5-44 p.m. (Saturdays excepted).
To Ilkley - 8-2 am.
From Bradford to Baildon only
12-8 p.m. (Saturday only): 1-0 p.m. (Saturday only); and 4-22 p.m., 5-0 p.m., 5-33 p.m.. 5-53 pm. (all Saturdays excepted).

Wednesday 23 January 1957 TEMPORARY RE-OPENING

About Baildon station

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 23 January 1957
TEMPORARY RE-OPENING BAILDON STATION
On and from MONDAY, 28th JANUARY, BAILDON STATION will open temporarily on weekdays during the present oil emergency.
TRAINS TO BRADFORD
Baildon dep. 7.58, 8.38, 9.8, 9.49 a.m. 5sx44 p m
Return from Bradford (Forster Square)—
12so6, 1so o’clock, 4sx22, 5sx o’clock, 5sx33. 5sx53 p.m.
TRAINS TO ILKLEY
Baildon dep. 8.2 a.m.. 12so19, 1so13, 4sx35. 5sx8, 5sx4l,
6sx3 p.m.
(S.O. Saturdays only. SX Saturdays excepted).
Tickets will only be issued between Baildon and Bradford (Forster Square). Ilkley and intermediate stations between these points. Booking of Passengers from Baildon Station will only be given up to the 9.49 a.m. train, after which time Passengers will be required to pay their fares at the destination stations.
CHEAP DAY TICKETS
BAILDON to and from
Second Class. 
Single and Day return.
Single fare .... 7d.
Day return fare 1/-
First Class
Single and Day return.
Single fare .... 11d.
Day return fare 1/3
BRITISH RAILWAYS

British Rail Re-opening
Shipley Times & Express
23 Jan 1957

Wednesday 30 April 1958 BAILDON'S GRAND OLD MAN DIES AGED 101

Related to Heather House

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 30 April 1958
BAILDON’S “GRAND OLD MAN” DIES AGED 101

Baildon’s Grand Old Man” of 101, Mr. Harry Robinson (better known as Harry t’ Chemist) died in a Bradford Nursing Home on Monday. Mr. Robinson also had the proud distinction of being the oldest pharmaceutical chemist in the country.

Mr. Robinson was apprenticed to a Dewsbury chemist in 1874, and he qualified at the Westminster Pharmaceutical College 77 years ago.

Shortly after qualifying, he opened up his own business which has been in the family ever since, and at the same time he became manager of the first bank to be opened in the town.

Another important Job which Mr. Robinson undertook was that of dentist to the moorland villagers, at a time when cocaine had never been heard of, and he used to charge 6d. to pull out tooth. He was the only dentist in the district at that time and many of the older residents in the town will no doubt remember going to "Harry t' Chemist" to have their own teeth seen to.

A staunch Conservative, Mr Robinson was member of the Baildon Council from 1923 to 1932, and for more than 20 years, until he was well into his 90's, he sat on the Otley Bench of the West Riding Magistrates, retiring only when the age limit was introduced.

At the age 95, Mr. Robinson was still serving his customers in the chemists’ shop in Browgate, which is now managed by his grandson, Mr. Edward Robinson. 

Shortly before celebrating his 100th birthday, Mr Robinson could regularly be seen walking slowly down Towngate with his trusted companion—his walking-stick and on these outings he enjoyed a "call" at the Conservative Club and a chat with his old cronies. 

He celebrated his 100th birthday on October 21, 1956, and his son and daughter-in-law, of Springfield Road, Baildon, kept “openhouse" for him to receive a constant stream of congratulatory visitors, including Shipley’s M.P.. Mr. Geoffrey Hirst.

Mr. Robinson’s wife died over 40 years ago, and he leaves one son, one grandson, and two great-grandchildren. 

His many friends in Baildon will feel deeply the sad loss of man who had probably done more for Baildon in his long lifetime than any other person. 

The funeral service will be held on Thursday at Baildon Moravian Church, where Mr. Robinson was an honorary member of the Management Committee.

Wednesday 02 July 1958 TOWNGATE HOUSE IS TO BE DEMOLISHED

About Towngate House

Shipley Times and Express - Wednesday 02 July 1958
BAILDON CLERK'S HOME
TOWNGATE HOUSE IS TO BE DEMOLISHED
Towngate House, Baildon, the 400-year-old house of the Clerk of Baildon Urban Council (Mr. R. Howard Moore) is to be demolished. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have lived there for the past 30 years. At a meeting of the Council sitting in committee on June 17, two reports from the Surveyor upon the condition of the property (which is owned by the Council) were submitted by the Clerk and after a lengthy discussion it was decided that "in view of the extremely serious nature of the Surveyor's reports." the Clerk should initiate steps for closing the house and its early demolition. The "Shipley Times" understands that dry rot has affected the main purlin of the roof of the house which is in danger of collapse at one side, and that certain of the walls are in a serious state. Asked where he would be likely to reside when the house was demolished, Mr. Moore said that was personal matter.”