Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Pages 1 and 2

Hyde in War-time

Book 1

Published by Herald Press

Hamnett Street, Hyde, Cheshire

THE CHIMES OF MIDNIGHT
The Opening of Hostilities

After the assassination of the Archduke Francis Ferdinand and his Consort, at Sarajevo, on June 29th 1914, the current of events moved with alarming rapidity, and, though Sir Edward Grey laboured incessantly for peace, "The Day” had arrived. The German war party was in the ascendant; they were demonstrating before Potsdam, and, the Kiel Canal had recently been completed. For 40 years herculean preparations had been in progress; enormous accumulations of ammunition and heavy artillery had been stored; the German navy had become one of the most powerful of any of the Continental powers, and the peace strength of the Conscription army had been increased. Three short but successful wars namely those of 1864 against Denmark, 1866 against Austria, and 1870 against France, had inflated German pride. The professors had taught the rising generation that war was a glorious thing; that Germany ought to be the Dominant World Power; that Britain was decadent, - "dry rot" had set in; and the links in her far-flung Empire were at the breaking point, - the Colonies were ripe for revolt. Her hour of destiny had struck. It was now too late for the Kaiser to stem the war party ; the populace hungered for blood; their shouts arose from below the Palace windows, the world Armageddon was in sight. In Russia a great revolution was evolving : businesses were closing down; workmen were combining and threatening the Government, who were mobilising the Cossacks to protect St. Petersburg; but with the appearance of those ominous clouds in the West the revolution ceased and Tsardom became united. In Great Britain bitterness and strife, and covert civil war in Ireland, were threatening to split tip the nation into factions ; but the greater menace on the Continent combined all parties, and a united front was presented to the world. Here the last step was reached, Austria appeared disposed to come to terms, but the German hosts were already being marshalled, and the impetus of militarism had aroused the German masses to fever heat, there was no turning back. On July 28th, 1914, Austria & Hungary declared war on Serbia; four days later, on August 1st, Germany declared war on Russia; and on August 3rd on France, and an ultimatum was sent to Belgium. The "Scrap of Paper"… the solemn guarantee of Germany, was torn to shreds, and the Germans invaded the little monarchy. This immediately brought Britain into the conflict. The British Cabinet dispatched an ultimatum to Germany to the effect that if Belgian territory were not respected, we could not stand idly by. That ultimatum expired at midnight on August 4th and as the hour approached, the British Cabinet Ministers were anxiously gathered at Downing Street, awaiting a message of peace from Berlin. In tense silence they watched the hands of the clock approach the fateful limit, but soon the chimes of midnight rang out from Big Ben…… it was war !

On the evening of Tuesday, August 18th, 1914, a meeting of members of the Hyde branch of the junior Unionist Association was held, "to consider the starting of a junior section of a civilian army, to assist the authorities in any crisis which is likely to arise." Several speeches were delivered in support of the movement, one of the speakers being Councillor T Middleton, who said that if the scheme of a civilian army were taken up it would do away with the need for conscription. It was decided to form a company, and to immediately begin training, a small committee being appointed to arrange details. At a further meeting, two days later, under the chairmanship of Councillor Middleton, the following resolution was unanimously carried. - "That in consequence of the grave national emergency which has arisen, this meeting of Hyde Junior Unionists, and each individual member, offer their services unconditionally, as far as time and circumstances permit, to assist the military and civil authorities in every possible way within the Borough of Hyde, for the maintenance of peace and the protection of life and property, and in doing so place themselves in the hands of the Chief Constable". About 45 members, of ages ranging from 17 to 25 were at once enrolled, and started drilling under the command of Sergeant John Travis, Lodge Lane, Newton, late of Manchester Volunteer Regiment. And Mr. E. Shaw, of the St. George's Boys' Brigade. Several weeks after the formation of the Corps, Sergeant Travis volunteered for active service The Junior Unionists also had route marches, often accompanied by Mr. J. Wilding, Conservative and Unionist Agent for the Hyde Division, who months later appointed recruiting agent at Hyde. Shortly after the formation of the Corps members began to enlist in Kitcheners Army, and by 1916 practically all were serving with the colours.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 42-43 The Rally From The Prairie Land.(continued)

Today sees the start of more pages from The Hyde In War Time Book 1914-1916... I know many liked reading this and as the book is quite rare and is not available on the internet as yet this blog is a good a place as any to show it.

A "Jack Johnson" Kills A Family

A 'Jack Johnson' was the British nickname used to describe the impact of a heavy, black German 15-cm artillery shell.

Driver Frank Holland, of the Canadian Field Artillery, is the eldest son of Mr. George Holland, Joel Lane Gee Cross, formerly of Higher henry Street and Nelson Street, Hyde. Born at Hyde, he went to Canada about ten years ago. Driver Holland came over with the first Canadian Contingent, and went to France in February, 1915. He had some very thrilling experiences, going through a place which the Canadians nicknamed "Hell" and round a corner called "Dead Man's Corner." In a message dated May 16th, addressed to his brother in Swain Street, Driver Holland said they had lost a lot of brave men and horses. He saw a German "Jack Johnson" hit a building, and it killed eight of a family - parents and six children, while all lay asleep in bed. About this time Driver Holland and chum, during a brief "nap" had a most narrow escape from death, a shell dropping within about half a dozen feet of them, and bursting; yet they were practically unhurt. He had ridden through a town while shells were knocking down houses all round. 

Patriot From British Columbia

Lance-Corporal Walter Hardman left Hyde three or four years before the war, for Canada. Settled at Revelstoke, a small town in British Columbia, where he obtained a position under the Canadian Pacific Railway Company for two years held the office of Vicar's warden in the parish, and acted as lay reader. Enlisted about July, 1915, and after six weeks at Vancouver, came to England to complete his training

A Loyal Hyde-Canadian

Among the local men in Canada when the war started was John Worrall, nephew of Councillor T. Worrell, and brother-in-law of Councillor T. Middleton. He had for several years been farming. He volunteered immediately, and came over to England with the second Canadian. He went to France in April, 1915, as a signaller, and was soon in the danger zone. Within a very short time he was seriously wounded in the face with shrapnel. He was under hospital treatment for a considerable period, and the injury resulted in loss of sight in the right eye.

Newton Brothers Join In Canada

Bombardier Frank Ormerod and Private Harry Ormerod, sons of Mr. Wm. Ormerod, Bagshaw Street Newton. Both had been in Canada some years when war broke out, and both responded to the Old Country's call. Frank joined the Canadian R.F.A., and became a bombardier, completing his training in England. Harry enlisted in the R.A.M.C., was at Hill 60, Neuve Chapelle, and Ypres, being "gassed" at the last-named place, but recovered, and rejoined the ranks.

A Rally From The Far West

Another instance of a Hydonian in Canada rallying to the old flag and coming over to Europe to defend the Mother Country was provided by Staff-Sergeant William E. Chidlow, the only son of Mr J. Chidlow, Great Norbury Street, the well known Insurance Superintendent. Staff Sergeant Chidlow went to Canada six years before the war broke out, and had a farm near Lloydminster, Saskatchewan. The call of King and Country caused him to leave his farm and join the colours, in November, 1914. After twelve months' training in Canada he came to England, and continued training at Shorncliffe. In April, 1916, he was stationed at Bath, performing duties in connection with the Canadian casualty Department. Meanwhile, he had risen to the rank of Staff Sergeant, having originally been a Private.

Hyde Reporter 'Cutting 1'

This is a cutting from the Reporter... it was titled as..

 'A Soldiers Life'

Guns at the ready, Hyde men of the Cheshire Regiment are pictured at camp during the First World War. If you can name the soldiers or have any details, contact the Reporter Group at 167 Market Street, Hyde.

Well, the office on Market Street is long gone.. and I wonder if any details came in.

Cutting from Dave Williams 

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 41

The Rally From The Prairie Land.

Hyde Canadians In Desperate Fighting.

Two noteable Hydonians who came from Canada to fight for the Mother Country were Private T.C. Johnson, a son of Mr. William Johnson, Muslin Street, Newton; and Private Arthur Williamson, a son of Mr. A Williamson, J.P., King George Road, Hyde, secretary of Hyde and District Operative Spinners’ Association. Both of these fine-spirited young men have seen a good deal of the world. Private Johnson, at the age of about eighteen, went to sea, and later spent a considerable time in South America, going down right to its most southern point, the Island of Tierra Del Fuego. Travelling from there about the year 1908 he sailed up the Pacific Ocean to the extreme west of Canada, and, after being buffeted about for a time, set up a real estate business in the city of Victoria, British Columbia, which turned out a success. When war broke out his thoughts immediately turned to the “Old Country” nor could he rest content until he had determined to do is “bit,” and, enlisting as a Private, he came over with the Canadian Contingent. Private Johnson was fighting in France at the time the Germans made their first and quite unexpected great launch of poisonous gas. In addition to receiving a dose of gas, he was wounded, and for many weeks he was under treatment at a hospital in Somerset. While at the fron the had several narrow escapes, one being when a German shell dropped near him, but fortunately did not explode. After the hospital treatment, Private Johnson became engaged in the Canadian Records Office, in London. He was still there in January, 1916, but was then expecting shortly to return to the front.

Private T. C. JOHNSON.

Loyal Patriot, gassed and wounded.

___________

A MAGISTRATE’S CHEERY SON.

Private ARTHUR WILLIAMSON.

A true-spirited Britisher.

When war broke out, and the seriousness of the strife was realised, the Motherland’s appeal for help rallied her loyal sons from the wide world o’er. Old ties and friendships found her son’s ready, aye ! and eager to protect the hearths and homes of the cherished land that had given them birth, and one of these gallant sons was Private Arthur Williamson, who enlisted at Montreal, and went through a course of military training in Canada. He arrived in England, from Canada, on the 21st May, 1915, and some little time afterwards was drafted to the front.  Private Williamson has spent a long time in the trenches under the most awful conditions, but he always wrote home cheery letters to his anxious parents. In the following December, they received a letter stating that he was under treatment in hospital at Cumieres, France, his hand having been wounded while engaged in the dangerous work of putting up barbed wire entanglements. He appears to have made a good recovery, for early in February, 1916, he again returned to the “firing line.” Private Williamson is probably one of the most “travelled” young men who have gone to Canada from the town. From the time he left Hyde, in September, 1911, to his arrival in England as a soldier, he properly covered little less than fifty thousand miles. He has made a few trips right across Canada, has worked in lumber camps and on the wheat lands of the broad prairies, and in industrial works at Montreal. On one occasion, after obtaining work as a tree-cutter, he had to walk forty miles through the bush in order to reach the spot where the work required to be done. Excellent training for a prospective soldier.

Near the end of April, 1916, Private A, Williamson was in a London military hospital suffering from “shell shock.” He had been there for some little time when he wrote home informing his parents of his arrival. In his letter, he stated that “shell shock” had taken away his hearing, but the doctors had told him that the drums of his ears were not destroyed, and that they might be able to restore them. In a message sent from the front a few weeks previously, Private Williamson told of two German shells lying just in front of his dug-out. Fortunately, neither of these shell burst; if they had done, he wrote, “there would have been a terrible splash, and you would not have had this letter 

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 38-39 ( Continued )

“Forty Gang” Heroes Continued 

Sniped While On Duty.

After spending only a few weeks in France, Private Samuel Smally., of George Street Hyde, a well known member of the “Gang,” was shot dead by a German sniper on the 3rd November, 1915. His regiment was holding a wood that had been taken by the British in the heavy fighting of the Loos battle, and he and a few comrades were repairing a trench that had given way in consequence of the heavy rain. For those who have had no experience of trench warfare in rainy weather it is not easy to realise the various dangers that beset the men engaged in it. At the moment he was shot, Private Smally was in imminent danger of either being drowned or buried alive under falling earth. In order to escape this fate he made a spring. This caused him to be seen above the trench by a sniper, and he was shot in the head. Private Smally, before enlisting on the 28th September, 1914, was a crane driver at the works of Daniel Adamson and Co., Hyde Junction. He was a married man, and his wife had no fewer that 14 relatives serving in France including a son, who, curious to relate, was going up to the trenches when her husband was being carried out.

Private SAMUEL SMALLY

Shot Dead By A Sniper Whilst Doing His Duty

Another Member Missing

An official intimation from the War-Office was received on November 15th, by Mrs Walker, Bower Street, Hyde, that her husband, Private John Walker had been missing since the 3rd October. Private Walker was in the battle of Loos. Before enlisting, the previous March, he was employed at the Snipe Colliery

Privates Robert Hopkins and Joseph Hopkins, brothers both members of the loyal “Forty Gang.” Their home was Rochfort Street.

Private ROBERT HOPKINS

A Loyal Member Of The "Forty Gang"

Before enlisting they were employed at the engineering works of Messrs. Joseph Adamson and Co. Both joined the Royal Engineers.

Private JOSEPH HOPKINS
A Loyal Member Of The "Forty Gang"

Private Joseph Hopkins Commonwealth War Graves Commission
   RECORD
...

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 38-39

“ Forty gang” Heroes.

Miraculous Escapes From Death.

For many years there has existed in Hyde an institution known as the “Forty Gang,” the leader of which is Mr. Herbert Shaw, of Clarendon Street. It comprises a large body on men who have no particular headquarters, but who are banded together in a spirit of genuine fellowship, and who, whenever there has been a deserving cause requiring support, have been among the foremost in helping it. Many a charitable movement in the town has been assisted by the “Forty Gang,” whose members have never failed to take a prominent part in public parades, mostly figuring in comic get-up. These young men have proved themselves as useful in war as they did in peace. The opening of hostilities was the greatest opportunity they ever had of showing themselves worthy of the town. In a very short time many of them had enlisted, and by the end of 1915 the “Forty Gang” had close upon a hundred members… an overwhelming proportion of past and present members… serving with the colours. All these had left their civil vocations for military service, voluntarily, and several have given their lives for King and Country, while others have been wounded, and many were in the fighting line.  Two of the earliest heroes of the “Forty Gang” were Private Joseph Broadhurst, of Elizabeth Street, and Private Tucker, of Foundry Street, who went through some terrific fighting together in the first few months of war. It was not until March, 1915, that Private Broadhurst attained his 18th year, though he had been in the Army since he was fourteen, and on attainment of his 18th birthday he was almost six feet in height. Both these young men took part in many fights following the Mons retreat, and each had been wounded in three places. 

Private TUCKER.

A Gallant fighter, wounded in three places

During this fighting, Private Broadhurst had a miraculous escape from instant death, a French watch that he had found, and wore in his coat pocket, preventing a bullet from piercing his heart. It was during the battle of the Marne that Private Tucker joined his pal, who had already been “in the thick of it.” Broadhurst was agreeably surprised at the meeting of his mate, after so many had been killed. Whilst on observation in one of the trenches, Broadhurst bobbed his head up to “see what the world was like,” when a bullet from a German sniper’s rifle grazed his nose. On the following day Tucker was hit while hurriedly proceeding to warn the supports that the Germans were attacking. Whilst at home in March, 1915, Broadhurst relate how on another occasion, he took a German officer prisoner; while later, when in charge of another German whom he had captured, he was shot in the hand, but held on to his captive. He had made these captures during a charge, which he himself led, his officer, Lieutenant Anderson, having being shot in the head. Privates Broadhurst and Tucker had a spell of seventeen days’ more of less severe fighting in the neighbourhood of La Bassee. The two also fought near Ypres. Private Broadhurst was once in the trenches 25 consecutive days, and he had no change of shirt for two months. He relates this experience with typical humour. “ It walked off my back then,” he  remarks. When we were firing, I was killing Germans with one hand and germs with the other. We killed thousands of German ‘spies’ in this way. They are as clever as the Germans in entrenching themselves. They entrench under cover of the seams of your tunic.

Private JOSEPH BROADHURST.

Experiences miraculous escapes from death.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 37 ( Continued )

THE “SEALS” ANSWER THE CALL.

Rarely is there a dark cloud without a silver lining, and amid the many sad messages which came from the front, the people of Hyde read many cheery messages from Mr. Joe Smith, the noted Hyde Seal Swimming Master, which were addressed to Councillor W. Fowden. He went to France about the beginning of October, 1915, and there did much good work with the motor ambulances. Apart from his duties, Orderly Smith was a keen observer, and he had many meetings with Hyde lads, on the roads and in the fields, and hospitals, and on one occasion arranged a convivial gathering in a French town. Early in 1916, Orderly Smith was at home several days on leave, and then returned to France.

Orderly Joe Smith

The noted Hyde Seal Swimming Master, now a cheery ambulance worker.

WARRIORS WHO ARE SWIMMERS.

Among the noted Hyde swimmers who fought in the war, were several members of the Taylor family. There were five brothers, all of whom had been prominently connected with Hyde Seal Swimming Club. The Taylor’s were a Hyde family, though the home of Sergeant George Taylor, of the Grenadier Guards, whose conduct on the battlefield in France led to him being recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal, was at Hyde road, Denton. Sergeant George Taylor fought in several important actions, having many thrilling escapes, and he was wounded in the engagement at Hohenzollern Redoubt, in October, 1915. On that occasion, he was called on by a German Officer to surrender, and replied by throwing a bomb, which killed or wounded four of the enemy. A little later, a piece of shrapnel struck his helmet, there were no doubt he would have been instantly killed. He was also struck on the shoulder. After hospital treatment, he made a recovery, later was employed on munitions.

Sergeant George Taylor.

Of the Grenadier Guards, A noted swimmer, recommended for the D.C.M.

Rifleman Herbert H. Taylor, brother of Sergeant George Taylor, was wounded in france about March, 1916, after being there over twelve months. Three months later he was back in the trenches. Rifleman Taylor was an ex-boy swimming champion of Hyde, and in this connection had a fine record.

Rifleman H. H. Taylor.

A “Champion” swimmer, wounded in France, above March, 1916.

Another brother, Charles was in Australia when the war started. Early in 1915 a letter was received from him stating he intended joining the Australian Forces. Nothing further had been heard of him up to May, 1916, beyond a rumour that he had been killed in the war, but of this there was no confirmation. Charles was married, and before going to Australia was employed in the cloth-room at Greencroft Mill, Hyde.

Seth Taylor, was another brother, joined the British Army about fifteen years before the war, and was with the 10th Hussars. He spent four or five years in India, and whilst there met an accident. He was granted a life pension.

The eldest brother, Mr Eli Taylor, an Assurance Company Superintendent at Hyde, married, with five children, attested under the Lord Derby’s scheme. He had been connect with the Hyde Seal Club since it’s formation in 1895.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 36-37

The “Seals” Answer The Call

A Prisoner Of War

In January, 1915, a letter was received at Hyde from Edward Chappel, a Private in the King’s Royal Rifles. Chappel is a well-known member of the Club. He had written from Germany, where he was a prisoner of war, having been captured a few weeks previously. Before the war he served in India, and won medals for boxing. At the time he wrote he was in the interment camp at Mecklenburg. He made no complaint against the Germans, except that he was not getting enough to eat.

Private Edward Chappel

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 35-36

THE SEALS ANSWER THE CALL

Famous International Poloist’s Loyalty.

Probably there is no local sporting organisation that has been affected by the war to the same extent as the famous Hyde Seal Swimming Club. Before the this celebrated organisation had achieved Almost as much fame in certain parts of the continent, as in this country. The Seal swimmers and water polo players had several times visited Belgium. They were well-known to the sporting fraternity of Brussels, and had swum in the Seine at Paris. Not only Belgians, but also Hungarians and Germans, had visited Hyde not long before hostilities opened, and we had also had in Hyde Baths a Swedish team. Between the Belgians in particular and the prominent members and officials of the Hyde Seal Club there had grown up a strong bond of friendship. Unfortunately war’s rapacious way had severed many old friendships, and some of these international water poloist will never again clasp the hand of fellowship. Several noted Belgian swimmers have fallen. The Captain of the Brussels Swimming Club, M. Fernand Feyaerts, so well-known to many of us, and who before the war occupied a commercial position of considerable importance in his native country, was very heavily hit - financially and otherwise, - when hostilities opened.  He and his family were driven from home; and for a time they were practically refugees in this country. M. Feyaerts had been rejected for military service on physical grounds, but later he cured himself to the extent of being accepted, and early in 1916 it was found that he had been wounded in action on the Belgian front against the Germans.

As the time war broke out, the Hyde Seals had won various big swimming and water polo championships, and were confidently expecting to again become the National Water Polo victors. With the declarations of war, the remaining competitions were abandoned. The “Seals” proved themselves as keen for country as they had been for sport. The new President of the Club, Mr. J. Leadbetter Knott, joined the colours.  He became a Captain, and early in 1916 it was officially reported he had been promoted to the rank of Major. He had then been in France some months. At the Annual Meeting of the Hyde Seal Club, held on the 20th April, 1915, it was reported by the secretary, Mr. A. Heron, that every member of the reserve polo team had enlisted; and Councillor Walter Fowles, the treasurer, announced that 34 members  of the club were serving with the forces. Subsequently, other members followed suit. But for the war the club would now have been celebrating its “majority” -1895-1916. 

Private Tom Clegg

A CHARMED LIFE

One of the many patriotic Hydonians who came from distant parts of the British Empire to fight for the Mother Country is Private Tom Clegg, who formerly was associated with the Swimming Club. Six or seven years ago he went to the Antipodes, spending three years in New Zealand, and a similar period in Australia. He joined the Australian Forces within two or three weeks of the outbreak of war., and on the 18th October, 1914, sailed from Sidney to Alexandria. After several months training in Egypt, Private Clegg accompanied the Australian Expeditionary Force in the Dardanelle’s, where he was in the early landing, and subsequently went through much fighting of a terrific character. On April 27th, his birthday, he was in four bayonet charges. In the first four days of fighting, his Battalion lost over six hundred officers and men, and those who survived, Private Clegg among them, were complimented by three commanding officers upon their continuous gallantry. Private Clegg, under a heavy fire, bandaged a serious wound sustained by an officer. In later fighting, a Turkish shell burst near him and two comrades. The other two were wounded, and Private Clegg’s nerves were so shattered that he was unable to continue in action. He left the Peninsula on the 23rd, July, and on reaching Malta it was found he had a poisoned hand. Here he remained under treatment a month, and then was sent to England, where he spent time at a convalescent hospital at Bethnal Green. At the beginning of September, Private Clegg arrived at Green Street, Hyde on a visit to his home, and returned to military duty on the 6th October. 

Private Cleggs C.W.G.C. Casualty Details (1918) 

Here

Hyde In Wartime (1914-16) Pages 34

Gunner J. Smith

Gunner Smith of George Street, Hyde ,  was in the Royal Garrison Artillery. He was killed in action through the bursting of a gun, 30th December, 1914.

CLICK To Read His Casualty Details From The Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Private F. Purseglove

In a letter he stated he had just been in the trenches 29 days. Previously he had been wounded, but recovered. He was in the 1St Cheshires.

Privates Silver & Souter

A pair of popular “pals.” Private  Harold Souter was the well-known Hyde Seal goalkeeper.

Private J. Norman.

A gallent member of the “Forty Gang”.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 33 - Continued.

Patriotism Of The Police Force

Splendid Loyalty Of The Police Force

A GALLANT POLICE OFFICER.

On the first of November, 1914, during the first battle of Ypres, a member of the Hyde Police Force, Corporal Harry Howland, of the Grenadier Guards, was struck in the right leg with a piece of shrapnel, his thigh bone being shattered. Howland, like his Police comrade, Wilkinson, had been in the terrific fighting on the Marne and on the Aisne. In fact, he had been fin a great deal of the thickest fighting for about eight weeks before being wounded. The wound put him permanently out of action. He was brought over to England, and for months was under treatment, undergoing several operation, but, unfortunately, it was found necessary to amputate his right leg. Ultimately the gallant Corporal improved and on Wednesday, November 24th, 1915, over twelve months after being wounded, he re-appeared in the town with a couple of crutches. Being unable to continue service either as a soldier or a policeman, Corporal Howland’s visit officially marked the severance of his connection with the Hyde Force, which he joined in April, 1913. Prior to his visit he was offered a life appointment on the estate of Sir Philip Sasson, in the county of Kent, and had also been granted a fairly substantial pension. A few prominent townspeople of Hyde subscribed a gift of money as a wedding present to the Corporal and his bride, and he was also presented with a large framed photograph of all the members of Hyde Police Force, including himself, and about a dozen who are at present serving with the colours, some of them being at the front when the year 1916 arrived.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 33

Patriotism Of The Police Force

Splendid Loyalty Of The Police Force

We have already referred to the immediate calling up of two members of the Hyde Police Force, Constables Howland and Wilkinson, as Army  Reservists. On Monday, 9th November, 1914, eight members of the Force, having decided to enlist in a body were paraded before the Borough Magistrates in the new Court Room in  Corporation Street. 

The eight members were :

1. Acting Sergeant Smith, who had put in eight years’ police service, and who had two brothers serving with the colours.
2. Constable Wood, no less than 14 years’ police service, but in spite of this fact insisted on going.
3. Constable Allen, three years’ police service.
4. Constable Lilley, who had five brothers gone.
5. Constable Lambert, who in the words of the Chief Constable, “thought his family ought to be represented.”
6. Constable Dickenson, who was “in a similar position.”
7. Constable Bradbury, who had two brothers gone.
8. Constable Butler, who had one brother gone

It was intimated by Alderman Sherry Chairman of the Watch Committee, that the positions of the men in the Force would be kept open for them.

Hyde Policeman’s Stirring Story.

We have already stated that among the Hyde Reservists to be called up at the beginning of the war was Bombardier Wilkinson of the R.F.A., a member of the Hyde Police Force. Wilkinson was in some of the early severe fighting in Belgium and Northern France, and his description of what he saw, and of thrilling incidents in which he figured, are worth recording in permanent form. His story was contained in two letters addressed to the Chief of Hyde Police Force, Mr. J. W. Danby. The first was dated October 10th, the second October 23rd, 1914. In the first, Bombardier Wilkinson told of advancing over ground they had already fought on (presumably in the retreat from Marnes; of seeing heaps of dead  on every side; of tables spread out in a garden, with broken bottles and glasses littered about the ground in confusion. Every house had been looted by the Germans in their first onslaught, when attempting to reach Paris, an attempt that failed just at the moment it looked likely to succeed, when the Huns had got within a very few miles of the French capital. All the furniture, the Bombardier stated had been thrown on the streets. The Germans were retreating so rapidly that they did not have time to bury their dead, whose bodies were lying in ditches by the roadside, the French people burying hem after the British Forces had passed through. “We came across some of the graves of our men; one had a cross over the head, made out of a biscuit box, and bearing these words, “Eight English Artillerymen buried here.’ The grave was nicely arranged, with fresh flowers which had been placed there by peasants.”. The gallant Bombardier further related that the British had just taken a town which the Germans had held for three days. “We were  shelling it for a whole day, and covering the advance of the Yorkshire Regiment, who, at eleven p.m., had the order to take it at the point of the bayonet, which we did, without  a great number of casualties. When  we arrived in the town the people cried for joy, but the sight was terrible. All the windows were smashed, and doors had been burst open by shells. Dead and wounded were all over the place. Only one part of town was damaged; the other part was left after the enemy had demanded a very heavy ransom, which they were obliged to pay. We had a very good half-day in the town. The people give us jugs of beer, wine, biscuits, fruit, tobacco, and bread and butter in plenty.”

A Gruesome Discovery

In his second message dated October 23rd, Bombardier Wilkinson related how he and his comrades had had to stand to their guns under heavy rain of German missiles. What they dreaded most, he said, were the Krupp guns. Only the previous day the enemy located his Battery, and commenced firing shells weighing 120lbs. Apiece. One of these shells, he observed, “creates a hole large enough to hold a Maypole wagon.” Sixty shells were fired by the enemy, and one dropped only yards from Wilkinson, who was covered with dirt and smoke, but was not hit by a pieces of the shell. On another day, while the Bombardier was sitting in a ditch, resting and enjoying a smoke, close by a horse with a nose-bag on, he quite unsuspectingly commenced to pull at some straw under him, when he found his fingers on the face of a dead German. On further investigation, he discovered that the ditch was full of the enemy’s dead. 

Bombardier Wilkinson, with the exception of one or two brief  periods, has been in the zone of fire since Sir John French’s original Expeditionary Force set foot on French and Belgian soil, and at the end of 1915 he was still there.

Hyde In War Time ( 1914-16 ) Page 29-30

Recruiting Schemes

FINAL RALLY
FOR LOCAL
VOLUNTARY RECRUITS.

A great recruiting rally, the last notable effort made under voluntary, system of enlistment, took place during the latter half of September and the early part of October, 1915. It culminated in a very impressive demonstration on Saturday, October 2nd, with a semi-military procession, and a meeting in the Market Square in the afternoon, and a further meeting in the Public Hall at night. The procession passed through some of the principal thoroughfares of the Borough. There were two brass bands in the procession - Hyde Borough and Bredbury and Romiley, - and stirring martial music was discoursed. The procession included a fairly large contingent of the 66th (Welsh) Divisional Cyclist Company, a few men of the 3/6th Cheshire Territorials, and members of the Hyde Volunteer Training Corps ; also Hyde St. George’s and Bredbury St. Mark’s Church Lads’ Brigades, the 1st Hyde Detachment of Girl Guides, and numerous Boy Scouts. A notable feature of the turnout was a Zeppelin model, twenty feet long, which had been constructed at the works of Messrs. Jacobsen, Welch and Co., Ltd., Newton, and a lorry load of dummy shells. In the rear of the procession were seven motor cars, containing several ladies and a number of gentlemen. Among these were Alderman Thos. Perrin, J.P., Councillor A. M. Fletcher, J.P., Rev. H. E. Dowson, B.A., Alderman J. Mirfin, Mr T. Owen Jacobsen, J.P., Rev R. M. Moore (at that time Hyde St. Thomas’s curate, who had been working on munitions for some months), Mr. And Mrs. Tom Smith (Burnley), Mr. Walter Gee, Mr A. Williamson, J.P., Mr. W. Ardern, Councillor W. Pope, Alderman and Mrs. H. Brooke, Councillor Amos Winterbotham, Mr. J. T. Cartwright and Mr. Tom Bennett (Matley). Several small flags were displayed in front of each car. The Mayor and Mayoress (Councillor and Mrs. Welch), and Miss Welch, were in the last car, his worship wearing the civic robes. The meeting in Market Square was addressed by the Mayor, Mr. Jacobsen, Mr Tom Smith and Councillor Pope, and it was followed by the performance of the Maze Drill in the roadway in front of the Town Hall by fifty-two members of the Hyde Volunteer Training Corps. The night meeting in the Public Hall was attended by probably not less than a thousand persons. On the following day there was a ‘recruiting service’ at St. George’s Church, with a stirring sermon by the vicar (Rev. J. Alaric Davys), to a congregation that included the Mayor, members and officials of the Corporation, and representatives of a number of military, semi-military, and civilian institutions. As a result of the recruiting rally, there was a considerable addition to the ranks of local men serving with the colours

THE APPEAL TRIBUNAL AND ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

About the end of November, 1915 two local bodies were appointed to adjudicate upon applications for exemption from military service. The main duty of the Advisory Committee was to obtain information and advice in reference to persons for whom appeals were made, and this committee’s work considerably relieved the Tribunal. There was much work for both bodies. The Advisory Committee consisted of Alderman T. Perrin, J.P. ( Chairman), Alderman H. Brooke, Mr. W. A. Aspland, Mr. A. Williamson, J.P., and Councillor W. Pope. It was a thoroughly representative body. Both Mr. Perrin and Mr. Brooke had held the office of Chief Magistrate of the Borough, while Mr. Perrin was chairman of the Stalybridge, Hyde, Dukinfield and Mossley Joint Tramways and Electricity Board. Mr. Aspland was a director of the Slack Mills Company, Ltd. Mr. Williamson was secretary of the Hyde and District Operative Spinners’ Association.
The Tribunal comprised the Mayor ( Councillor Stanley Welch ), chairman; Mr. Oliver Hibbert, J.P., Mr. John Hall Brooks, Mr Samuel Knowles. Mr Walter Gee and Councillor Ebenezer Bury. The Mayor was the managing direct of Messrs. Jacobson. Welch and Co. Ltd., manufacturing stationers, Newton Mill. Mr. Hibbert was chairman of Messrs. Edward Hibbert and Co. Ltd., Greencroft Mill cotton spinners and manufacturers. Mr. Knowles was secretary of the local Hatters’ Society, and Mr. Gee secretary of Hyde and District Cardroom Operatives’ Society. Mr. Bury was a member of the firm Messrs. Bury and Hopwood, chamois leather manufacturers; also chair of the Hyde Borough Education Committee, and a member of the Joint Tramways and Electricity Board.

THE DERBY SCHEME - A GROUP OF CANVASSERS

　
Front Row: Messrs. W. Baker, W. Hibbert, J. McGinty, Mrs. Danby Mrs. Mirfin (P.L.G.), Miss Quinn, Miss Wilkinson, Miss Mattin, Mrs. Stafford, Mr. John Charlton.
Back Row: Councillor A. Shaw, J.P., Messrs William Robinson, S. Etchells, T.H. Whitworth, Richard Cragg, Harry Knowles. T. Bennett, A. Ward, T. Wilson.

FIGHTERS FROM THE FACTORIES

Immediately the war started, many employers in Hyde, realising the seriousness of the situation, encouraged their male workpeople of military age to respond to the call of the King for the defence of the country. The largest local firm, Messrs. Ashton Bros., cotton spinners and manufactures, Flowery Field, set a good lead, and the movement was splendidly backed up at Slack Mills, Kingston Mills, green croft Mill, Newton Bank Printworks, Newton Mill (Messrs. Jacobsen Welch and Co.’s). the Godley Margarine Works, and many other local factories and workshops. It was soon found, on the other hand, that all the ironworks in the town and district would require not only all their regular men, but others also, for munitions-making, a task that, as war proceeded, turned out to be of supreme importance.

Front Row: Messrs. F. Gregory, G. Whyatt, J. W. Wooliscroft, F. Molly, H. Secker, (C r.) E. Bury, C. Duxbury, E. B. Charnley, (Cr.) T. Worrall, H. W. Denton.

Back Row: Messrs. J. Carr, T. Horrocks, H. C. Buttery, S. Shepley, Jos. Heginbotham, J. Marshall, J. Horsfield, O. Hibbert, C. Morris.

Photo by A. E. Searle, Hyde.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page 27-28

RECRUITING SCHEMES.

After the national register there was a recruiting campaign, under Lord Derby’s scheme of attestation. During this campaign great numbers of men, married and single, throughout the country went to the recruiting offices and attested for military service in the event of being called up. No man of military age was allowed to canvass. In Hyde Borough there were about a hundred canvassers, including a few ladies. The chief work of the canvassers was to call on men, particularly the younger and the single men, of military age, and submit to them reasons why they should respond to their Country’s call. For canvassing purposes the Borough was divided into ten districts, each district having a captain, besides the canvassers. It was understood that no information submitted to canvassers would be made public, all the canvassers, being pledged to secrecy. On Monday evening, 8th November, 1915, the captains and canvassers held a meeting in the Court Room, Corporation Street, to discuss their duties, and were addressed by the Mayor (Councillor Stanley Welch). In connection with this canvas two well-known local solicitors, Mr. Adrian Smith and Mr. Albert Slater, acted as hon. Secretaries. When the canvass was approaching completion, it was reported that on the whole they had been well received. The captains and canvassers, with the various districts, were :-

Godley Township. - Captain, Alderman Perrin. Canvassers : Messrs, E. J. Cobbett, B. Hibbert, Walter Hibbert, J. McGinty, F. Molloy, T. Tickle.

No.1 Polling District. - Captain, Councillor W. Pope. Canvassers : Councillor Winterbotham, Councillor Worrall, T. Horrocks, R. Redfern, -. Jones, -. Kitchen, G. H. Purssglove, T. H. Whitworth, W. Baker, Wm. Shaw, C. Morris, Jesse Walker, Mrs. Mirfin, Miss Dann.

No.2 Polling District. - Captain, Councillor Fletcher. Canvassers : Messrs. W. Gledhill, J. Foden, F. Pleasance, J. Marshall, J. Carr, H. Timperley.

No. 3 Polling District, - Captain, Mr. James Diggle. Canvassers : Mr. R. Craig, Mrs. Danby, Miss Diggle, Messrs. J. Charlton, W. Robinson, C. Duxbury, E. B. Charnley, H. Knowles, (Councillor) A. Shaw, G. Whyatt.

No. 4 Polling District. - Captain, Mr. A. Williamson. Canvassers : Messrs. J. Heginbotham, J. Simon, J. Wooliscroft, J. Horsfield, J. Kempster, H. Secker, J. Singleton, T. Cooper, A. Ward.

No. 5 Polling District, - Captain, Alderman Kenny, Canvassers : Messrs. S Mace, F. Gregory, H. C. Buttery, Mrs. Morrisey, Miss Mattin, Mrs. Stafford, Miss Quinn.

No. 6 Polling District. - Captain, Mr. C. H. Brogden. Canvassers : Messrs. S. Shepley, H. E. Poole, W. Johnston, G. Hopwood, S. Etchells, J. Wakefield, (Councillor) Bury, A. Holland, C. McGinty.

No. 7 Polling District. - Captain, Alderman Brooke. Canvassers : Messrs. J. Broomer, T. Wilson, Louis Brooke.

No. 8 Polling District. - Captain, Mr. Joseph Heywood, Canvassers : Messrs. J. Heywood, J. Chidlow, W. Cartwright, Miss Little, Messrs. J. H. Hall, F. E. Wood, J. McDiarmid.

No. 9 Polling District - Captain, Mr. W. A. Aspland. Canvassers : Messrs, Samuel Evens, J. Hall Brooks, Oliver Hibbert, Geo. Brownson, M. Hallas, W. Oldham, (Rev.) T. Richmond, C. Berry.

Front Row:

Messrs. (Cr.) E. Bury, S. Knowles, J.H. Brooks, O. Hibbert, W. Gee
Back Row:

Messrs. Thomas Brownson B.A.., (Clerk), Major W. D. Jolliffe (Mlty. Rep.), (Cr.) S. Welch, J.P., Mayor (Chairman) J.W. Danby (Mlty. Rep)

Photo by A.E. Searle, Hyde.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page25-26

RECRUITING SCHEMES.

Numbering
The People.

In 1915 Parliament passed the Nation registration Act, under which every person in the United Kingdom between the ages of 15 and 65, except members of the Navy and Army, was required to fill up a registration form on August 15th of that year. The information required on the forms related to age, residence, married or single, number of children dependent, occupation, name of employer, whether skilled in any work other that on which employed, etc. the Act resulted in the getting together of a vast amount of useful information. In the Borough of Hyde the work was done under the supervision of the Town Clark (Mr. Thos. Brownson, B.A.), with the Chief Assistant Overseer (Mr. W. Oldham) as his principle colleague. There were 150 enumerators, who delivered and collected the forms, and explained as far as possible any point on which there was any doubt. The work of the enumerators was completed about the middle of August. There were 8,395 dwelling-houses in the borough, and 10,628 males and 13,320 females filled in the registration forms. After being collected, the forms were taken to the Town Hall, where they passed through several courses of examination, much classifying being necessary. In addition to the enumerators, there were many helpers in the work at the Town Hall; all the work was done voluntarily, and among those who assisted were numerous headmasters and teachers of the Day Schools of the borough.
The following is a list of helpers in the work in the Town Hall: Messrs. E. Edge, V. Edge, J. Bowker, W. Ardern, F. E. Wood, A. W. Jennett, J. Bowden, W. Hudson. H. Wrigley, G. W. Oldham, H. Craven, C. H. Burden, H. Loch, A. Mercer, A. Saxon, A. Wilkinson, G. Fox, B. Garside, W. Scott, J. D. Nuttall, R. Brownson, J. Harrison, J. W. Wake, R. P. Hitchen, H. Cann, R. Howarth, C. T. Billinge, A. Cash, J. Heaton, F. Shepley; Mrs. Andrew, Mrs. Buzza, Misses Brownson, Kent, Coope, Wrigley, Clarke, Cordingley, A. Farrington, E. Farrington, N. Singleton, K. Broderick, M. Banks, S. Kerfoot, L. Wragg, H. Hall. G, Hall. Tweedale, Bowker, Wood, Wilkinson, B. Cash, B, Dawson, S. Hibbert, Mrs. C. T. Billinge.
The following is a list of enumerators: - Mesdames Mirfin, E. Swinfin, C. J. Robinson, H. Andrew, A. Buzza, Jessie Beeley; Misses M. Gott, J. Crotty, Reynolds, E. Minshall, E. Kent, M. Dunlop, A. Clarke, Tweedale, M. Hall, S. E. Rowland, A. Philips, A. Wilkinson, E. Mattin, K. Broderick, M. Banks, B. Dawson, Constance Elias, E. Middleton, M. Savidge, L. Lea, C. Wildgoose, G. Silver, E. Quayle, B. Turner, E. A. Harrison, E. Booth, E. Clarke, F. Bagshaw, A. Kershaw, N. Singleton, B. Cash, B. K. Dixon, S. Kerfoot, F. Hallworth, F. Williamson, B. Mycock, B. Jones, Irene Mycock, L. Wragg, F. Baguley, E. Pect, E. Herod, A. Coope, M. Little, E. Farrington, N. Bradbury, F. E. Skinner, A. Farrington, E. Nichols, Cordingley, E. Bowker, and Priestley; Messrs. F. Howarth, R. Hitchen, A. W. Jennett, A. W. Parker, Oswald Bardsley, Howard Wrigley, G. H. Purssglove, J. Chadwick, John Axon, N. Ridgway, John Dixon, John Vickers, E. J. Cobbett, Mark Devlin, P. Scholes, G. W. Sutton. Ephriam Lewis, James Molesdale, F. Brown, Jos. Marshall, R. Howarth, C. Beeley, J. H. Stafford, G. W. Davidson, A. Saxton, B. Hibbert, Wm. Barker, Austin Gregory, Wm. Lord, J. Proctor, John, Chorton, H. Linney, R. Gatley, J. Proctor, Alfred Firth., Jas Morris, James Hogg, George Fox, J. W. Vickers, Van Aalten, G. H. Nichols, J. Wilding, E. W. Crossland, A. E. Searle, Sergeant. Robert Atkinson, Inspector W. Moore, Rev. Chaplin Wilkinson, Walter Gee, Thomas Swindells, H. Fisher, J. Bowden, J. W. Wake, H. Denerley, H.C. Buttery, Frank Bardsley, T. B. Dawson, G. Spencer, H.V. Hird, W. W. Kenyon, R. W. Andrew, Harry Wild, Joseph Whitehead, F. Torkington, Thomas Thompson, George H. Oulton, Frank Whalley, Walter Scott, Tom Cooper, W. J. B. Ford, Chas H. Walmsley, Geo. Hopwood, Samuel Leigh, P. Barber, A. W. Leech, T. Horrocks, S. Redfern, John Cross, G. Wild, F. Cowling, C. H. Alty, G. W. Oldham, A. Timperley, George Brooks, F. E. Wood, A. Mercer, Councillor T. Middleton, R. Gregory, Joseph Harrison, J. Bowker, J. D. Nuttall, Wm. Spiller, Councillor Jas. Hibbert, B. Craig

THE DERBY SCHEME. - A GROUP OF CANVASSERS.

Front row: Messrs. J. T. Cartwright, M. Hallas, F. E. Wood, S, Evens (Ald.) H. Brooke, J. Singleton.
Back row: Messrs. J. H. Hall, W, Shaw, J. McDiarmid, B. Hibbert, J. Kempster.

Photo, Searle, Hyde.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Pages23-24

CHAPTER IV.

Rallying under the Standard.
Recruiting Schemes.

HISTORIC SCENE
IN COUNCIL
CHAMBER.

On Monday, 9th November. 1914 a scene unique in its character and surroundings was witnessed in the Hyde Council Chamber. At the call of the newly elected Mayor (Councillor Stanley Welch), the crowded assembly rose and sang "God Save the King" Probably this was the first occasion in the history of the Corporation that the National Anthem had been sung during the Council proceedings.

SEVENTY
PATRIOTS MOUNT
THE PLATFORM.

One of the most memorable meetings in the history of Hyde took place in the new Public Hall, on the evening of Monday, 4th January, 1915. It was a recruiting meeting, and the principal speaker was Mr. Will Crooks, the Labour M.P. for Woolwich, whose speech will never be forgotten. The Mayor (Councillor Welch) was the Chairman. On the platform was a numerous assembly of local Aldermen Counsellor, Magistrates, Employers of labour, and other prominent townsmen. It had been intimated that only very limited accommodation for ladies would be available, and with the exception of forty to fifty, the crowded audience, numbering considerably over a thousand, consisted solely of men. In a telegram to the Mayor, which was read to the meeting, Mr. Leadbitter Knott, who at that time was in military training preparing to go to the front, said: "I am sure Hyde will give place to none in the courage and patriotism of its young mem." While the speech was not without humour, there was in it intense patriotism, tremendous seriousness, and an imperial breadth that completely captured the imagination of the audienc. Mr. Crooks had twice been round the world, and he roused the audience to a high pitch of enthusiasm in speaking of the strong brotherly feeling he had met with in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he had come across men from the "Old Country." in industrial centres on the prairie, in lumber camps, in the neighbourhood of the "Rockies." etc. He had found the Union Jack flying on shacks, tents, bungalows, and in camps; and in out-of-the-way places there had fallen upon his ears such music as "Abide with me, fast falls the eventide.“ There are few men in the Country who have experienced the many classes of which the British Empire is composed, to a greater expect than Mr. Crooks, who was born in poor surroundings, was brought up in a Poor Law institution, and twelve months after his visit to Hyde was honoured by the King in being created a Privy Councillor. His concluding remarks are well worth placing upon a Permanent record. "God never gave to man or women an opportunity but He meant it as an obligation," he said. "What is the, first law Of life ? Duty ! Shirk it if you dare. The Kaiser has outraged every canon of decency, and it remains for us to deal with him. Every phase of our public life in serving in the fight. The Duchess of Westminster, the Duchess of Sutherland, and many an aristocratic lady, has gone to nurse and succour our soldiers; they are serving their day and generation as they ought; so is ‘Tommy’s wife in remaining at home and looking after ‘Tommy’s’ little ones. She is doing her best. . . . Love of home is the inspiration that enables our men to fight and work. We are fighting for our wives, our children, and our homes. Everyone who enlists now will save three men from death” At the close of Mr. Crook’s historic speech, the Mayor made a strong appeal for everyone of military age to join the Army at once. There was a splendid response, between sixty and seventy men immediately coming forward and offering themselves, and they went on the platform and stood in line at the rear. Three lusty cheers were given for the recruits, and the Denton Original Band “Tipperary,” the scene being of a most rousing character. This meeting resulted in the immediate addition of about a hundred to the recruits from the town.

THE DERBY SCHEME - AN ENERGETIC COMMITTEE.

Front row: Miss P. Kerfoot (Typist for Committee), Messrs. (Cr.) J. Parry, (Ald.) T. Perrin J.P., A. A. Smith (Hon Secretary), A. Slater (Hon. Secretary), J. Hall Brooks, A. Williamson, J.P., and Miss A. Buckley (Typist for Committee.)
Back row: Messrs. W. Redfern, C.H. Brogdon, F.A.I., J. Diggle, A.M.I.C.E., J. Wilding, (Cr.) W. Pope. (Ald.) L. Kenny, J.P., W. Oldham.
Photo, Searle, Hyde.

Hyde in War Time (1914-16) Page22

HYDE RIFLE CLUB - MEMBERS AT DRILL.

Front row: Messrs. I. Slater, F. Beard A. Bancroft, J. Wilson, J. Cross, W. Stopford, B. Davenport,
At back: Messrs. J. H. Hamer, C, Lisle, J. Handforth, H. Starkie, A. E. Searle, T. Dean, R. Broadbent, R. Brownson, G. T. Gore, H. Wilde, R. Whistlecroft, R. Lodge, H. Hadley J. Smith, F. Whalley, J. Grundy, A. Hall, W, Schofield, J. S. Jackson, H. Williams, H. Dawson , J. W. Lord,. Standing in the rear: Mr. T. Victor, Commander of the Drill Section.

Photographed at the Headquarters, Greenfield Mill. Photo by A. E. Searle, Hyde.

After the local Reservists and Territorials had left the town recruiting for Kitchener’s Army proceeded with briskness. There also arose several Training Corps, which did good work prior to the formation of the Hyde Volunteer Corps, which absorbed the older organisations. The Rifle Club came into being in 1914, with a membership of 75, which rapidly increased till it reached a total of over 300. The Old Greenfield Mill had been kindly placed at the disposal of the members, and here, on the ground floor, gathered an enthusiastic body townsmen who, energetically drilled under Mr. T. Victor, whilst the first floor was utilised as a miniature rifle range on which good rifle practice was obtained. The officials were: President, Lieut. Dr J. A. Watts, Chairman Mr. R. E. Jones, M.A., Secretaries, Messrs. B. Davenport and F. Beard, and Treasurer, Mr. Geo. F. Higham. The club was disbanded after the Annual Meeting, on September 30th 1915.

Hyde In War Time 1914-16 (Pages19-20

Enrolment of Special Constables.

A FINE BODY
OF MEN

Within a couple of months or so of the outbreak of war about a dozen members of the Hyde Borough Police Force had left the town and entered upon military duties. At that time a few special constables in uniform were engaged to take their places, and for several months special attention had to be paid to local railway bridges, waterworks, etc. After a little while the uniformed specials, who, of course, were paid, were dispensed with, and townsmen al lover the Borough were invited to allow themselves to be enrolled and sworn in as voluntary Special Constables. There was an excellent response, and their services began to be utilised early in May 1915. In, April, 1916, the total number “Specials" in the town easily exceeded 250, and they were giving three hours per week each on police duty, in the evenings. Appended is a list of the townsmen who have acted in this capacity. They are divided into sections, each section having a patrol leader.
　
　
PATROL No.1. - Mr. C. H. Brogden, Leader; Messrs. F. Shenton, J. Oldham, T. F. Blakemore, W. Shaw, H. Norgrove, S. Shepley, W. H. Hamer, W. H. Middleton, R. S. Anthony, A. Hodson, A. Heron. J. Handforth, and A. Kay.

PATROL No.2. - Mr. G. F. Wild, Leader; Messrs, C. Lisle, R. Winterbotham, F. Torkington, E. Hopwood, G. R. Hadfield W. Kenyon, G. Sidebottom, H. Smith, W. Baker, H. V. Hird, G. W. Henstock, P. Robinson, R. Andrew, E. Taylor, and J. Saville.

PATROL No.3. - Mr. J. Dunkerley, Leader; Messrs, A. Bateman, J. Johnson, E. Parker. J. Stainthorpe, E. Pickford, J. W. Quarmby, T. Keyworth. J. W. Jackson. J. W. Shaw and J. Marshall.

PATROL No.4. - Mr. A. Bancroft, Leader; Messrs. W. Dent, J. Rosebottom, G. Hopwood, J. H. Whitehead, F. Clarke, G. H. Oulton, W. Whitehead, H. E. Oldham, F. Whalley, H. Wild, F. Gosling, T. Thompson, J. Cross, C. Bland, and E. Oldham.

PATROL No.5 - E. J. Cobbett, Leader; Messrs. F. E. Wood, T. Molloy, W. Fell, A W. Jennett, E. Edge, J. F. Ibbottson, E. G. Harman, W. Lees, A. Oldham, S. Bardsley, C. Knott, and E. Bickerdyke.

PATROL No.6 - Mr. J. Higginbottom, Leader; Messrs. J. Proctor, J. H. Wild, W. Norgrove, F. Gregory, S. Leigh, J. Chorton, A. Gregory, C. H. Alty, W. Lord, T. Smith, T. Cooper, and J. Oldham.

PATROL No.7. - Mr. Percy Oldham, Leader; Messrs. L. Maiden, T. Magee, J. Morris, C. Lyon, G. Gledhill J. Williamson, A. Firth, H. Cooper, F. Bardsley, L. Brooke, A, E. A. Jympson, and T. B. Dawson.

PATROL No.8. - Mr. B. Garside, Leader; Messrs. H. Wrigley, O. Bardsley, B. Craig. G H. Nicholls, J. Hogg, J. Bowden, J. A. Bardsley, J. Broadbent, E. W. Crossland, A. E, Searle. G. Fox, W. Spiller, T. Cooper, F. Oldham. and A. G. Fox.

PATROL No. 9 - Mr. S. Ashworth, Leader; Messrs. A. E. Slack, J. Beaker. H. Mason. C. Berry, R. North, G. North, W. Oldham, J. Dakin, J. Pinnington, M. Hallas, A, E. Chadwick, W. Stott, J. E. Hopkinson, E. Thornley, and A. W. Mason.

PATROL No.10. - Mr. W. Gledhill, Leader; Messrs. C. E. Moore, J. Chatterton, J. Hunt, E. Lever, J. Hornby, M. Smith, W. Oldham, A, Wright, G. Brian, J.T. Slater, and C. Higginbottom,

PATROL No.11. - Mr. J. Wilding, Leader; Messrs. J. W. Wake, T. Cooper, D. Gratton, B. Hibbert, S. V. Aalten, W. Tudor, J, E. Woodall, C. R. Halton, G. H. Jackson. F. L. Brown, H. Linney, S. Hibbert, and J. Redfern.

PATROL No.12. - Mr. R. Forge, Leader; Messrs. J. McGinty, J. Wakefield, G. Hopwood, R. P. Kitchen, J. E. Andrew, H. Kelsall, G. H. Purssglove. F. Whitworth. J. Oldham W. B. Gregson, G. Leech, A. Boardman, W. Bowker and S. Fielden.

PATROL No. 13. - Mr. A. Barker, Leader; Messrs. W. Ridgeway, J. Nield, A Timperley. S. T. Taylor. S. Whitehead, G. T. Walker, T. Buckley, C. Aldred, P. Barber, J. Wright, and P. Roscoe.

PATROL No.14. - Mr. N. F. Cooke, Leader; Messrs. P. Scholes, J. Hopkinson, R. Sims, J. Lomas, H. Glover. C. Middleton, J. Axon, J. Proctor, A. Gee, A. Townsend, H. Broadbent, S. Coxon, C. Thompson. and J, Wood.

PATROL No. 15. - Mr. G. H. Stafford, Leader; Messrs. J, Dixon, J. Oldham, S. Leigh, L. Mellor, W. Dawson, J. Archer, M. Pleasants, A. Howarth, F. Mottram, J. J Wilde, N. W. Mellor, J, N. Collier, T. Hadfield, and J. Chadwick.

PATROL No. 16 - Councillor S. Fawley, Leader; Messrs. J. H. Stafford, B. Armstrong, A. Fawley, C.C., B. Taylor, C. W. Garlick, C. E. Duxbury, H. Whitehead. T. N. Bedford, E. B, Charnley, G. W. Davidson, C. Beeley, G. Lewis, M. Devlin. J. Vickers. G. W. Sutton, S. Plant, and S. Wood.

PATROL No.17 - Councillor W. Pope, Leader; Messrs. W. Gee, H. Dennerley, T. Whitworth, T. Swindells, S. Etchells, J. Mosedale, H. Fisher, R. Wilkinson, J. Horrocks, D. C. Buttery. W. I. Bowker, J. Sparkes, S. Owens, J. W. Bowden, S. Fisher, and R, Newton,

PATROL No.18. - Mr. A. Slater, Leader; Messrs, I. Slater, J. S. Jackson. J. Gregson, J. Lever, George. F. Higham, J. Swindells, T. Worrall, T. Horrocks, Jas Broadbent, R. Rose, C. T. Billinge, H. Merritt, C. Morris, H. Lees, J. Sandiford, and John Broadbent

PATROL LEADERS OF THE “SPECIAL” CONSTABLES

Front Row: Messrs. A. Bancroft, P. Scholes, (Cr.) W. Pope, J. W. Danby (Chief Constable), G. F. Wild, (Cr.) S. Fawley, C.H. Brogden, F.A.I..
Middle Row: Messrs. J. Dixon (Inspector), J. Higginbotham, P. Oldham, G. H. Stafford, E. J. Cobbett, J. Wilding, S. Shepley, F.LI. Brown, W. Moore (Inspector.)
Back Row: Messrs. S. Ashworth, N.F. Cooke, A. Barker, H. Wilde, J. Dunkerley, B Garside. Mr. Albert Slater, Leader of Patrol 18, was unavoidably absent.

Photo by A. E. Searle, Hyde.

Hyde In War Time (1914-16) Page17-18

CHAPTER III.

FORMATION OF TRAINING CORPS.

SPLENDID
PATRIOTISM AT

FLOWERY FIELD.

Immediately after the outbreak of the war, a Training Corps was started at Messrs. Ashton Bro's. Mills, Flowery Field, every facility being given by the firm to the male section of the operatives to enter the Corps and begin preliminary training with a view to active service for their country, if required. It was very fitting that this firm, the largest in the town, employing some 2,500 operatives, should take the lead it did in the direction of practical patriotism. From the the time Ashton Bros’ Training Corps was formed, the general manager of the mills, Councillor A. M. Fletcher, J.P., representing the firm, gave it all possible encouragement. Of course, as in the cases of all manufacturing concerns, a very large proportion of the operatives were female. When war broke out, there were in the firms', employ about 800 males, of thirteen years of age and upwards. Ashton Bros. Training Corps, made up of men and youths from the firms several factories, in the first few months of the war did an immerse amount of good. It reached a numerical strength of several hundreds, and attained a high state of efficiency. Up to the time of his joining the Army, Mr. (now Captain) G. B. Sayce was in command of the Corps. The firm's cashier Mr. James Dunkerley, besides acting as secretary of the Corps, was a platoon commander, his colleagues in latter capacity being Messrs. N. F Cook, George H. Stafford and Allen Barker. Some of the officers were ex-Volunteers, and previous experience in drill, marching, etc., served then in good stead, besides proving of benefit to the men. Instruction classes were held, and a rifle range was set up at the Wharf Shed. Route marches were frequent, and on one occasion the men, after journeying by train to Hayfield, walked from that village by the Kinder Scout path to the "Snake" thence to Glossop, and on through Mottram to Hyde, a total distance of over twenty miles, the first seven mile, being along a very rough and difficult track.

ASHTON BROS. TRAINING CORPS.

Werneth Low

Photo No. 1.......... A. E. Searle

The Corps. held several manoeuvre’s on Werneth Low and in the neighbourhood of Woodhead. At Ashton Bro‘s. factories, about sixty dummy rifles, with bayonets, very made, for the use of the men in drilling. These rifles were afterwards lent to the Hyde detachment of the Cheshire Volunteer Regiment, whose members were allowed the use of the Wharf Shed rifle range. So efficient did Ashton Bros' Trailing Corps become, that some men on joining Kitchener’s Army gained promotion with remarkable rapidity. In the early months of the war there were many stirring events at the Flowery Field Mills. One of these took place on Thursday, November 19th, 1914, when 39 members the Mates' Platoon, composed of employees of Messrs. Ashton Bro’s and Co., Lid,, left for their first drill at Belle Vue. These men had useful training in the Corps, organised at the mill. Before the men left they were addressed by the general manager, Councillor A. M. Fletcher. J.P., in the presence of about 2,000 operatives.

From the early weeks of the war to the present time, the patriotic weavers at Bayley Field Mill have subscribed each week, and sent numberless comforts and other gifts to the soldiers. For this movement they had two splendid workers in Miss Esther Shaw, secretary, and Miss Martha Edwards, treasurer.

Up to the beginning of April, 1916, two hundred and eighty men from Ashton Bro’s. had joined the colours, and nine had been killed.

ASHTON BROS. TRAINING CORPS

Werneth Low

Photo No. 2..........A. E. Searle

ST. GEORGE’S
CHURCH CORPS.

During September, 1914, there was also formed a Training Corps in connection with St. George’s Church. The Corps numbered 50 strong. Many of those who became members subsequently joined the colours, and some have fallen on the Field Of Honour.

After the local Reservists and Territorials had left the town, recruiting for Kitchener's Army proceeded with considerable briskness. There also arose several local Citizen Training Corps. 0n the 11th. January, 1915. the new Mayor (Councillor Welch) initiated a movement which led to the formation of the Hyde Volunteer Training Corps at a public meeting held in the Town Hall, about three weeks later - On the 2nd February. Not long afterwards this Corps became a detachment of the Cheshire Volunteer Regiment. Its primary object was home defence. Up to April, 1916, there had been 320 men entered on the membership roll, and about 50 had enlisted, which was a large proportion, considering that the great majority of the men were above military age, the eldest being nearly sixty. The uniform of the men was paid for out of a Battalion fund, subscribed by members and friends. Up to the time named, Hyde had subscribed to the fund £268. The Battalion was made up of five detachments - A. Detachment, Stalybridge; B. Dukinfield; C, Hyde; D, Glossop; E. Bredbury, Romily, and Marple. The full numerical strength of the Battalion was over a thousand. A remarkably high state of efficiency was obtained all round. Mr. T. Victor commanded the Hyde Detachment for a few months, until he obtained a Lieutenant's commission, and the duties of commander were then undertaken by Mr. H, L. Plant, of Romily, with Mr. Daniel Pennington, the well known Hyde Solicitor, as sub-Commander. The following were the officials of the Corps:- President, Lord Ashton of Hyde; acting President, the Mayor (Councillor Welch); secretary and treasurer, Mr. D. Pennington. Committee: Messrs. C. H. Brogden, Robt. Gregory, Joseph Heginbotham. Ed.Ogden, John Torkington. H. E. Poole, C. E. Moore. Albert Slater, (Councillor) Percy Hibbert, (Councillor) W. Pope and Mr. J. W, Danby (the Chief Constable), the three last-named elected by the Corporation. There were four platoon commanders:- viz, No.1 Platoon, Frank Shenton; No 2. Wm. A. Aspland; No.3, William ---ton, junr: No. 4, J. W, Sutcliffe. The Corps had frequent drills and marches, the longest march in one day being fully twenty miles. One of the results of these exercises was a remarkable improvement in the physique of the men. They also learnt the Maze Dance, which was an effective test of physical endurance for men between forty and fifty-five In April, 1916, the working strength of the Hyde Corps was about 200.

ASHTON BROS. TRAING CORPS.

Werneth Low

Photo No. 3..........A. E. Searle

SMART CORPS
COMMANDER

Mr. H. L. Plant, of Bredbury, joined the Hyde Volunteer Training Corps on its formation. He was at once appointed a platoon commander, and succeeded Mr. T. Victor as commander of the Corps when the latter gentleman received a Lieutenant’s commission, about October. 1915. A native of Staffordshire, Commander Plant had previously been in the Wolverhampton Yeomanry for about twelve months, and had spent ten years in the Leicestershire Volunteers, the latter half of the period as Sergeant; so that on taking charge of the Volunteer detachment at Hyde he was fortified with much useful military experience. His skill in shooting was another valuable asset to the Corps, whose efficiency is in no small measure due to his capable instruction and commend.