14/3/1908 In connection with Miss Gripton’s dancing class, a long night was held recently in the Britannia Hall. The spacious building was very nicely decorated. The dance was patronised by friends from Bridgtown, Cannock, Dudley, Walsall, and other places. Dancing was indulged in and greatly enjoyed until the early hours. On Wednesday next Mr G.M.Whitehouse will be in attendance at the dance, with his Quadrille Party.

4/4/1908 Pleasant gathering at Cheslyn Hay
PRESENTATION TO MR W.ROGERS
Speeches by Mr H.D.McLaren M.P. and Mr J.Stanley M.P.

Everybody at Cheslyn Hay knows Mr William Rogers, of Littlewood, or William, or sometimes “Bill” as he is familiarly called. He was born at Cheslyn Hay and for years he has worked not only with his hands, but also his brain, as Dr. Hosegood said on Tuesday evening. Moreover, he has worked for the good of the people of Cheslyn Hay. This was thought to be the case when in the autumn of last year some good natured souls determined to show the esteem in which Mr Rogers was held in the district. It is well known that Mr Rogers had been “under the weather” somewhat; that he had an attack which affected his side, but fortunately in a brief spell allowed him to continue his work at the colliery, although he was advised to give up some of his public work. Now, that’s just what Mr Rogers disliked doing. For years he had been engaged in public work and in good report and evil report he was intent on the advancement of the people. It was therefore resolved to present him with a testimonial and a committee was formed with Mr W.Crutchley Sen., as chairman, and a list of subscriptions was provided. There was not a general appeal; nothing of an elaborate character was intended, but it was deemed only a duty that some recognition should be awarded to one who is a familiar figure at Cheslyn Hay, and has for years worked as the various speakers on Tuesday evening put it, from a humanitarian point of view. The result was that a beautiful photograph, an illuminated address, and a purse, was presented to Mr Rogers, at the Working Men’s Club and Institute. There was a large assembly at the place which is the offspring of Mr Rogers’s fertile brain, for it was he who conceived the idea of providing such a comfortable institution at Cheslyn Hay. It was he who was the chief promoter of the institution and it was only proper that the presentation should take place there. It was a scene to be remembered. The large room at the club was filled by an enthusiastic company with a popular chairman in Dr. Hosegood on a raised platform with Mrs Hosegood, and Mr H.D.McLaren M.P., Mr A.Stanley M.P., Mr L.A.Fairley and others were amongst the rank and file. It was a social gathering; there was no bunting, the enthusiasm was quite sufficient for everything. Little time was lost and Mr W.Crutchley, a veteran of the district, in a few appropriate words introduced Dr. Hosegood who is well known to all. There was then a little music. Dr. Hosegood spoke a few words to the point. After a song, Mr H.D.McLaren M.P. delivered such an address as would be expected on such an occasion. He referred to the work Mr Rogers had accomplished and gracefully mentioned the good such men did. Mr Rogers, he recalled was a member of the left wing liberal party; a party almost of itself. It was however very rarely that the members of the labour party voted against the government; generally they were found in the same lobby. He believed the labour party were actuated by honest motives. So far as Cheslyn Hay was concerned he believed it had rendered good service to liberalism, and thanked those who had supported the party and also thanked those present for his very cordial reception (cheers).

After a little more harmony Dr. Hosegood read letters regretting inability to be present from Messrs.T.Mason (Hednesford), B.Deau (Walsall), A.E.Hawkins (Cheslyn Hay), and others. He thanked the committee for inviting him to take part in the proceedings. He referred to the recent indisposition and said that he had told him he must give up much of his public work. Hence it was not surprising that Mr Rogers was unable to show as much enthusiasm as formerly. But Mr Rogers had interested himself in many matters in Cheslyn Hay, not the least being the supply of pure water to drink, also the improvement of sanitary arrangements and lighting of the district. William Rogers was also a cultivator of beautiful flowers, while the building they were then assembled in was started by him, and he was responsible for its provision.

The presentation he was about to ask Mr Stanley to make was one that was well deserved. They were thankful there were such men with brain power as Mr William Rogers. Their old friend Mr Stanley needed no introduction for they were all acquainted with him and he asked him to make the presentation to his old friend and colleague W.Rogers. Mr Albert Stanley, who was cordially received, after a few preliminary remarks stated he felt honoured that he was asked to make the presentation. Since he was 17 years of age he had known William Rogers. He was then a popular leader of the working men. Mr Stanley humorously referred to the popularity of Mr Rogers with the ladies, and then he remarked on the way he and the guest of the evening had worked together over many years. Mr Rogers was one of the first to start him with the idea which had led him to the position he now occupied. He (the speaker) was still grovelling in doubts relevant to the future, whilst Mr Rogers was soaring high with his ideals of a humanitarian character which promised in the future a world free from much of which troubles and worries humanity and also sin. But Mr Rogers was not only an idealist; he was one who could grasp an idea and work it out satisfactorily. As a proof of this many things were brought forward and carried to a successful issue under the leadership of Mr Rogers. Then in imperial politics he had been a force also in the miner’s federation. He (the speaker) was proud to represent Cannock Chase, which was a district which was practically solid in the federation, and Mr Rogers had been his right hand in the efforts to put forward to produce such a satisfactory result. It was true they all had their weaknesses, and Mr Rogers was not without them. Referring to his position on the County Council Mr Stanley asserted that he liked that wok most of all for he felt that he was in touch with his friends and the people. He also pointed out that he had made it a boast that in the division he represented at the County Council there are more churches and chapels than there are public houses (cheers). He was not one that was against the working man having his glass of beer, but what he did desire was that the working man should have pure beer, a clean glass, and a clean place where he could consume it. It was pleasant for him to think that he rendered assistance in providing the building in which they were now assembled. And he was proud that he was well known and had so many friends at Cheslyn Hay. In days gone by the village was spoken of in derision as “Wyrley Bank”, but now it was not referred to as such but it was Cheslyn Hay. He had great pleasure in adding his testimony to the efforts put forward by Mr Rogers who had chosen to use his brain for the purpose of becoming wealthy, he would now be a rich man instead of a comparatively poor man; he never doubted if he even were a rich man he would be

happier than he is, while when the time came that he is called hence he would receive his reward. He hoped however that Mr Rogers would spend many years in serving the district. It was with great pleasure that he handed him the little memento’s that had been subscribed for. They were not considered as a payment for it would be much they would be required to pay him for the work he had done for Cheslyn Hay. They by making the presentation now ever showed how greatly the services of William Rogers were appreciated. If the committee had cadged for subscriptions the presentation would have been worth a hundred times more. But as it was they did not consider its intrinsic value, but the spirit that prompted the offerings. They were only working folk – all present – but Mr Rogers new what was intended and he would value it accordingly. He, (Mr Stanley) hoped that Mr Rogers would live for many years and look upon the portrait and address and look upon that restful peace in his old age, and further that he would have his reward in the future.
The address was a follows: – To William Rogers president and founder of the Cheslyn Hay Working Men’s Club.

Dear Sir. – We the undersigned on behalf of our fellow members and the public generally beg your acceptance of the illuminated address as a slight memento of the zeal and the energy you displayed in founding the club house and in the efforts you have put forward in all the public works in which you have been engaged. That you will accept this slight token of our esteem and regard. Also that you may still be spared to continue your labour of love amongst us is our heartfelt and sincere wish. H.Crutchley (chairman), Samuel Testall, Robert Parton, George Horton, I.Stokes, J.Farnell, W.Savage (committee), J.Lawson (treasurer), A.Whitehouse (secretary).

Mr Stanley handed this to Mr Rogers as a slight token of regard. Referring to the club he expressed the hope that the committee would see their way clear to close the club on Sundays. At Hednesford they were talking about closing it on Good Fridays and similar days and he concluded by hoping that success awaited Mr Rogers in his efforts to ameliorate the conditions of the working classes (cheers).

After a few interesting remarks from the chairman Mr Rogers, who was received with loud applause, rose to express his thanks. In a style peculiarly his own he referred to his early life and to the circumstances that at an early age he lost his mother and he had an invalid father. That he had sometimes nothing for supper and the remains were served up for breakfast (laughter). Also that at an early age he went down the pit at six o’ clock in the morning and was drawn up at six o’ clock at night. On Saturday he had to wait till ten o’clock at night for his wages. Then referring to Cheslyn Hay he pointed that the circumstance that the opportunities for education were then limited. Also that cock-fighting was the chief recreation while there were pugilistic encounters. He mentioned that the names of those who practiced the noble art of “self defence” were much talked about at Cheslyn Hay. Referring to the chapels he mentioned that it was nothing unusual for two or three to look over the hymn book while the hymns were sung, for literature was expensive. Mr Holcroft would give out two lines of a hymn at a time so that people could remember it. He would say, “God moves in a mysterious way, his wonders to perform.”

The people would sing two lines and then another two lines would be given out and sung. This reminiscence was highly enjoyed, and the Mr Rogers referred to the intense interest that the late Mr W.Crutchley took in education. It was through his efforts that a school

board was formed, and Mr Crutchley had left traces behind him. Education had done much for the people of Cheslyn Hay and he ventured to express the opinion that no longer would fights be worthy of attention. In fact he believed that if the question was left to working men, nation would not lift up its hand against nation, neither would they lean war. They were making progress. This was illustrated in a little incident hew would mention. Near a colliery that he was employed at, in a fence where hundreds of men and boys passed daily a throstle has built its nest; it was well known it was there, but none touched it. When he was young it would not have remained a day

25/4/1908 - There are some people very ill and possibly it might be more serious were it not for good water supply which a prudent Parish Council some years since induced the parishioners and the Rural District Council to accept. There are 14 people in the isolation hospital, and although they do not all hail from Cheslyn Hay and Wyrley a good many of them do. There is no occasion for alarm, and probably, such a state of affairs has been experienced before, more than once, but it was not so prominently brought forward. Moreover the isolation hospital is an institution that will prevent an infection spreading as the youngsters will be prevented from infecting others.

9/5/1908 - A Very Pleasing Incident
Well merited remarks

At a meeting of the managers the Cheslyn Hay and Great Wyrley group of Council Schools, held on Friday evening, May 1st, the Chairman Mr F.W.Hawkins called attention to the fact that Mr C.R.Walton, the Head Master at Cheslyn Hay Council Schools, had served in that capacity for 26 years, and proposed a resolution expressing the appreciation of the managers, of the services Mr Walton had rendered to the district during his long term mastership. Mr Hawkins, who has been connected with the management of the schools for over 17 years spoke with great feeling of Mr Walton’s high and characteristic devotion to his duty, and also to the fact that during all these years with but one exception his school had earned the highest grant. Mr W.J.Bowen said that Mr Walton had brought distinction and honour upon his district and school in being one of the few selected from the county area to be included in Mr Moseley’s party to visit America for the purpose of studying educational methods carried on in that country which might be used with advantage to the rising generation in English Elementary Schools. Mr Walton, who seemed much affected by what had been said, feelingly acknowledged the resolution and thanked all present for their kind expressions. He also gave an interesting account of his early experience of school life at Cheslyn Hay. He said he was the first master appointed and had the choice of Cheslyn Hay or Great Wyrley. The early meetings of the board were held at the office of Churchbridge Works, and Mr R.W.Burnett was chairman, the other members being Messrs. Joe Hawkins, Wm.Crutchley, and John Hall the clerk being Mr Dolby.

30/5/1908 - James Seabridge was summoned for using bad language at Cheslyn Hay. Officer Carter said the bad language was indulged in towards the landlady of the defendant. So would you be angry said the defendant, for he said he bought a joint of meat and others had eaten all the lean and left him the fat. Fined 2/6d and 8/6d costs.

6/6/1908 - The storm on Wednesday night alarmed a number of inhabitants. The crash of the chimney in Station Street was terrible. It was not only the inhabitants of the dwellings that were alarmed, but also those who live near. The rainfall was very heavy.

This was made plain on the following morning when some of the thoroughfares which were in a good condition had suffered terribly. Station Street is cut up somewhat. Some of the people declared that they never remember such a night.

6/6/1908 – Cheslyn Hay Football Club
The members and friends of the above club held their annual tae, and presentation of medals, last Thursday night. Over 30 sat down to a splendid tea provided by Mr S.Hawkins. Afterwards a meeting was held the chair being occupied by the president, Mr G.Wooton. In proposing the health of the club, the chairman congratulated the members on a most successful season. They had won two cups, viz., Cheslyn Hay and Penkridge, the latter becoming their own by winning it three times in succession. He urged the players to unite together and play the game in a fair and gentlemanly way, thereby earning the respect of their opponents. Mr A.E.Elwell, the captain of the team, responding, said he felt honoured by the fact that he had captained the team during the three seasons they had won the Penkridge cup. He paid a high tribute to the loyalty of the players, and said no one could wish for a finer set of men than the Social Football Club. He hoped their success would stimulate them to greater efforts in the future. Mr F.Altree, vice captain said in Mr Elwell they had a captain whom all the players had confidence in, and he hoped all the players would keep together. The president then presented the medals to the players and the reserve men, accompanying each with a word of advice. During the evening selections on the gramophone were given by Mr G.Lloyd, which were greatly enjoyed. A vote of thanks to the chairman and Mr Lloyd concluded a very pleasant evening.

13/6/1908 – Salem Sunday School
The youngsters to the number of between 700 and 800 in connection with the Salem Sunday School enjoyed them selves on Tuesday. It was the annual treat and as usual they were favoured with a visit to the Lodge Farm and Beacon Hill. Mr T.A.Hawkins allowed use of the orchard for tea and the fields he however was not present as he is on a driving tour. The youngsters parade the township headed by the band. There was a very interesting feature connected with this gathering. In the Lot there is a very weakly little girl who is trying the open air cure, or at least she is in a tent. She expressed a desire to see her old school mates. The procession wended its way to the Lot, where the little girl lay and passed by, they also sang a couple of hymns, but this was too much, it brought tears. It is hoped the poor invalid who is very patient may recover speedily. The youngsters having sung several songs en route enjoyed the treat at the Lodge Farm and returned home tired and happy.

13/6/1908 - Master Clifford Devereaux is to be congratulated on winning the second prize offered by the Woodwork Art and Metal Worker. It was an open competition in Woodwork, and Master Devereaux forwarded for the competition an ink stand and stationary rack in satin walnut. The first prize was taken by a pupil in Hastings Art School. The second by a pupil of Mr W.Rogers Jun. of Cheslyn Hay evening school – Master Devereaux. There were a number of competitors and it is more creditable that the prize should be taken when others who have apparently greater advantages competed. Others had the opportunity of working in the daytime but the Cheslyn Hay class is only for a few hours a week in the evening. Mr & Mrs Devereaux and their son are to be congratulated and also the teacher of the class.

13/6/1908 – Not the Songster
Henry Russell, of Cheslyn Hay, was summoned for using obscene language in his own house. The clerk said he thought he new him. “You ought to” said Henry “I have been up enough times” and he smiled. Officer Cooper said defendant was using bad language towards his wife who was trying to quieten him. A good workman said Mr Hawkins; steady man; it is a pity. Cooper said he tried to reason with him and had done so lots of times. Russell admitted it and said the policeman was the best friend he had, but he could not help it. Mr Wolverson reasoned with the defendant, and when the record was put forward it was said their worships did not want to see it, they new it only too well. He was fined 10s including costs and advised to “give up the beer”.

 

 

No Comments »