100: Marsden Liberal Club 1876-1976 (1976) by Marsden Liberal Club

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1876

1976

MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB

100

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100 NOT OUT

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB FROM MARSDEN FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

WATCH FOR ITEMS OF INTEREST

NEW IDEAS WELCOME

Contact Cir. Buckley (Chairman) or Committee Members

FESTIVAL ~ SEPTEMBER 11th, 1976

-

MARSDEN GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION

SEND CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AT THE LIBERAL CLUB ON REACHING YOUR CENTENARY YEAR

“JOLLY GOOD SHOW”

DON'T FORGET

MARSDEN SHOW - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER.

4th, 1976

‘ renin eae a ee x or 36 es ne eS a Te ee eee ee ee

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Richard Wainwright

Liberal M.P. for

Colne Valley

MARSDEN is a vigorous township, with a strong community life. It needs to be strong in order to survive serious handicaps—particu- larly its dependence upon one industry and the wretched lack of a proper community centre.

Fox one hundred years, the Liberal Club has contributed a great deal to the life of Marsden. It has always been conscientiously managed and well cared for. The state of the Club today is a tribute not only to the present Committee but to all who have gone before.

With my congratulations on the Hundredth Birthday, I extend best wishes for bringing the new generation of young people into Club life, so that the second century may be as useful to Marsden as the first has been.

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Marsden Silver Prize Band

Musieal Institute

WISH TO

CONGRATULATE

Marsden Liberal Club

ON ATTAINING

THEIR

Centenary

CONCERTS AND DANCES REGULARLY

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President: Stanley F. Haigh Dear friends,

I have always considered it a great privilege to be President of Marsden Liberal Club, and most fortunate to be enjoying office at this particular time.

My association this last fifteen years has been an enjoyable experience, especially in working with the Officers and Committee, past and present, in modernising and refurnishing the Club to its present state.

No doubt the Club is in such a happy and healthy financial position because many people have given their services freely, the one aim being to plough everything in, without thought of taking out; this has resulted in a successful relationship which -has filtered through to the whole membership.

Planning to celebrate our Centenary started some years ago, and I can assure you that to spread the same over 12 months has proved a considerable task.

May I take this opportunity in thanking everyone for their efforts in the past, and trust every member will avail themselves this year and join in the activities planned.

To my Officers and Committee it has been a pleasure to work with you, I sincerely hope your efforts will be rewarded, trust you will derive every satisfaction and in February, 1977, consider it well worth while.

Secretary: W. Derek Pinder

Dear Member,

It is my pleasure to express the thanks of the Officers and Committee of the Liberal Club to everyone for the preparation of this centenary brochure.

‘To our suppliers and tradesmen for their services; to the business people whose support has helped considerably towards the publication of this brochure; to the many people who have sent congratulatory messages; to Mr. Ron Massey, Features Editor of the “Huddersfield Examiner,” for the writing and layout of this booklet; to Mr. A. Lomas, Mr. C. Westerby and Mr. D. Wilson for their photographic and artistic contributions; and to my Officers and Committee for their help and encouragement. On occasions like this the willingness of all branches of village life to pull together augurs well for the future. I trust you will endeavour to spread your support and ensure a thriving and revital- ised community. I

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Established 1880

DAN LUNN

& SONS BUTCHERS

32 PEEL STREET

PULESIDE WORKING MEN'S CLUB send their congratulations to the officials and members of

MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB

on their ean CENTENARY Tel. 844326 HEPWORTH.

5 CARRS ROAD MARSDEN

Telephone Huddersfield 844398

HIGH CLASS FISH AND CHIPS FRESH FISH DAILY PIES, PUDDINGS, PEAS, Etc.

TRIPE - Monday - Wednesday - Friday

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Centenary calendar

March 6th: Members’ Party. Centenary celebrations opened at 6 p.m. by Cyril Smith, M.P. for Rochdale.

March 20th: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. April: Sports Month. Darts, Snooker, Dominoes, etc. April 23rd: President’s Dance, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. April 27th: Sports Presentation Sop Supper. May: Ladies’ Month. Mannequin Parade and Fashion Show (date

to be announced). May 22nd: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. June 12th: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. June 19th: Section of Colne Valley Male Voice Choir. July 4th: Car Treasure Hunt. August 14th: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. August: Mixed Bowling Foursomes (date to be announced). September 11th: Flower Show, in conjunction with Marsden Festival. September 18th: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. October: Old-Tyme and Modern Month, with Edwardian Evening. October 15th: Dance, 9 p.m. to I a.m. November: Ladies’ Month. Centenary Christmas Fayre. November 20th: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. December 11th: Christmas Spirit Whist. December 12th: Carol Concert, Marsden Band. December 18th: Christmas Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. December 24th: Christmas Eve Buffet Supper. December 3lst: New Year’s Eve Party and Cabaret. January lst: New Year’s Day Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. January 22nd: Dance, 8-30 to 11-30. February 5th: Children’s Party. February 25th: Yellow Stir. Conclusion of Centenary Year Celebrations. All Dances to the Carlton Duo.

(Other functions to be announced).

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THIS SPACE DONATED BY

JOHN EDWARD CROWTHER (Holdings)

LIMITED

JOHN EDWARD CROWTHER LIMITED

BANK BOTTOM MILLS MARSDEN HUDDERSFIELD HD7 6HR

VALLEY SPINNING CO.

LIMITED

NEW MILLS MARSDEN HUDDERSFIELD HD7 6AA

Six

Se ae ee a

pS IRR RET SE ES

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THE COMMITTEE

Back row (from left): Eddie Shaw, Peter Wawiorko, Arthur Muskett, W. Derek Pinder (secretary); centre: William Starr, Frank Juras, Arthur W. Holroyd, Ronald Drake (chairman); front Edgar D. Armitage, Stanley F. Haigh (president), Janet Muskett (stewardess), Arthur Schofield, Perey Lowe (treasurer).

VICE-PRESIDENTS Leslie Hoyles, Ronald Drake, Thomas Firth, Walter Horne, Frank Naylor, Joseph W. Hanson, Fred Quarmby.

TRUSTEES Stanley F. Haigh, Peter Wawiorko, Eddie Shaw, William D. Pinder, Carl Butters, J: Barrie Biltcliffe, Frank Juras, Arthur Muskett, Arthur Schofield, Ronald Drake, Norman Smith, Geoffrey D. Pinder.

LADIES’ SECTION OFFICERS

President, Mrs. E. Lord; Treasurer, Mrs. A. Sykes; Secretary, Mrs. A. Haigh.

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CONGRATULATIONS ON ATTAINING YOUR CENTENARY

from your NEWSAGENT LESLIE HOYLES CIGARETTES CHOCOLATES SWEETS GROCERIES NEWSPAPERS — MAGAZINES

22 CARRS ROAD MARSDEN

K. & K. M. BROOKS LTD.

HIGH CLASS QUALITY BREAD AND CAKES

Proprietors - Mr. and Mrs. J. R. HANSON and STAFF WISH TO CONGRATULATE THE MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB ON THEIR CENTENARY

Fight

AE fic RR Ras een ene

Sahel tee

ee .

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In the beginning

THE foresight of the men who put their ideas and energies to the formation of a Liberal Club in Marsden has, over the past 100 years, been amply justified.

We shalf never know all the names of the pioneers, but we know their motive: they were seized with the idea of spreading the word of Liberalism, and they decided to do something about it. The deter- mination, the dream, and the fight was in them.

In one of the old books now treasured by the Club: officials are recorded the names of some of the people who gave financial support

to the building and equipping of the Liberal Club.

It was 1876 before the building was officially opened, but almost two years before then the talking had begun, for in December of 1874, as the people of Marsden were preparing to celebrate Christmas, the first cash entry was made in the Marsden Liberal Club Building and Furnishing Account book.

My. J. B. Robinson, who was to faithfully serve the Liberal Club for many years as its president, was the first person to have his name recorded in beautiful copperplate writing, but it was not the only time that his name was penned in the pages of the book.

Gifts ranging from 17s. to £450 were greatly acknowledged by those who were entrusted to the safekeeping of the funds.

Let us recall just a few of those early subscribers: E. O. Taylor, Joseph Crowther, Henry Fisher, Eli Wilkinson, Alfred Rhodes, James Schofield, James Brook, Francis Goodall and John Henry Taylor. By what means these men and their like raised the money— apart from their own personal gifts—we shall never know, but it is a fact that by the time the building was opened almost all the money had been raised.

It is recorded that the first building cost about £1,000. When the Club was inaugurated by Mr. Jacob Bright, M.P. for Manchester, on January 12th, 1877, a collection on that day totalling £41 7s. 1d., took the Building and Furnishing Fund to £1,177 5s. 7d. After all the accounts had been paid, there was a balance in hand of £12 18s. 10d.

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Congratulations and Best Wishes _ for the next 100 YEARS

FIRTH AND COMPANY — cal

~ WOOLLEN AND WORSTED

‘-ooMMANUFACTURERS: #0) Gans or a2

CELLARS CLOUGH MILLS .

MARSDEN, HUDDERSFIELD,HD7 6NA.. Telephone 844481

Page 15

Before the decision was taken to approve the payment of convey- ancing charges for the plot of land, the Directors decreed that, “hav- ing learned the name of the culprit who had smashed a window in the billiard-room, he be ordered to pay for a new one.”

What yardage of land was bought from the Misses Haigh is not recorded, but it was minuted at a meeting on Friday, October 28, 1904, that as soon as the contract for the land was signed, a general meeting be called to decide what was required in the matter of extensions and alterations.

The trustees of the Club at this time were Mr. Joe .Crowther, Mr. Hanson Aspinall, Mr. Arthur Robinson, Mr. Mathew Waterhouse, Mx. Fred Beaumont, Mr. John H. Dyson, Mr. Dan Woodhead and My. Samuel Firth.

The land question having been settled, the secretary, Mr. Harold Parkin, was instructed to issue the following notice to every member: “Owing to the increase of members and the small accommodation there is provided in the present premises, it has been suggested by the Directors that there be an extension made. The Club is now in a very satisfactory and prosperous condition with 160 members’ names on the books. There will be a meeting held at the Club on - Tuesday, January 24th, 1905, a 8 o’clock, to consider the Extension Scheme. The Directors are desirous that every Member will take an interest in the work and show your approval by being present at this meeting.” The notice was dated January 10th, 1905.

Before the month was out a Building Committee had been elected and was ready for work. The members elected to serve were: J. B. Robinson (although he was at this time taking no active part in the running of the Club owing to his health), Samuel Firth, Mathew Waterhouse, Joseph Crowther, Francis Goodall, Arthur Robinson, Fred Beaumont, Cooper Firth, George Robert Taylor, James Arthur Schofield, Lewis P. Shaw, James Schofield, E. W. Crabtree, John Wm. Dyson, Dyson Aspinall, Herbert Dyson, Dan Woodhead, Fred Cawth- ron, James Mellor, Uriah K. Bradbury, Arthur Firth, James Parkin, Edgar Palmer, Thomas Marshall, Ben Crossley, James B. Richard Batiey, Brook Woodhead, Swan Quarmby, Hanson Aspinall, James Waterhouse, David Howard Firth, Harold Parkin, Harry Gartside, Tom Whiteley, Joe Beighton, Arthur Dearnley, Fred Baxter, Edward Turner, Charles Shaw and George Fielding. Forty- one men good and true. A conflict of opinion could be guaranteed with such a galaxy of local worthies!

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J. BAMFORTH & SON LTD.

17 and 13 STATION ROAD SLAITHWAITE

‘Phone Huddersfield 842515

PLUMBERS ELECTRICIANS HEATING ENGINEERS

FORMER THOMAS FIRTH CUSTOMERS ALWAYS WELCOME

CONGRATULATIONS

to the LIBERAL CLUB

on your

CENTENARY YEAR

MARSDEN ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

CONCERTS AND DANCES SATURDAY EVENINGS

Fourteen

en eee SN cams eee *

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It was obvious that Mr. Goodall wasn’t too happy with the plan to build at the rear of the existing building, for he told the Building Committee that he was prepared to pay 5s. per yard for frontage and 3s. 6d. per yard for back land, if it could be bought and if the Club

were willing to extend along the front instead of at the rear.

Four schemes were submitted to the Building Committee for con- sideration, three of them for rear development and one, No. 3 Plan, for top side development.

The land at the top side of the Club was to cost £63, but after Mr. Goodall had spoken to Miss M. Haigh, who lived in Oldham, she agreed to sell the land for £50. The decision on which scheme to adopt was taken on Tuesday, February 28, 1905. Eighteen votes were cast for No. 4 Plan, while Mr. Goodall’s No. 3 Plan attracted only three supporters. Despite the rejection for top side development, it was decided that Miss Haigh’s offer be accepted and 144 yards of land at the top side of the Club be bought for £50. A sound investment.

Mr. Kirk, the architect, was instructed to deposit the plans for the extension with the Marsden Urban District Council and to advertise for tenders for all the work. That was on March 28, 1905, and by the date of the next meeting, which was April 18, 1905, the Council had approved the plans and tenders were to hand. Local government machinery obviously moved far swifter in those days.

A building fund account was opened with the Halifax Joint Stock Bank, and Mr. John Edward Crowther, Mr. E. J. Bruce and

Mx. Joseph Crowther were invited to lead the subscription list.,

The following are the tenders accepted: Hirst Firth Bros., masons’ work £430; James Schofield, joinery and carpentry, £265; Thomas Firth, plumbing and glazing, £92; Pickles Bros., slaters, £32; J. and J. Bottomley, painting, plastering and concreting, £60; W. H. Hey- wood, roof glazing, £150.

The masons began work on the extensions on May 8, 1905, and at a special meeting held the following evening, it was decided that a foundation-stone laying ceremony should take place on Whit Satur- day, June 10. At the outset only one stone was to be laid, but it was agreed at a later meeting that in addition to Sir James Kitson, M.P., a further stone should be laid by Miss Robinson on behalf of her father, Mr. J. B. Robinson, who was still president of the Club.

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Sixteen

FEEL FREE TO LET LLOYDS BANK TAKE A LOAD OFF YOUR SHOULDERS.

Come into Lloyds Bank. You'll find the way in is also a way out. A way out of being dependent on cash, when a cheque can be so much more convenient. A way out of worrying about remembering to pay your regular bills on time. A way out of having too much month left at the end of your money.

We can help you to budget. We can help you with things like travellers cheques for your holiday. We can even help you

Callin at the sign of the Black Horse. And let Lloyds Bank take a load off your shoulders.

A LOT MORE THAN MONEY AT THE SIGN OF THE BLACK HORSE

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Sir James informed the committee that he was unable to attend on the 10th but that he was available on the following Saturday. The committee, having been frustrated for some months by various delays, decided to stick to their original choice of date. Mr. Joseph Crowther was chosen to take on the duty which should have been the pleasure of Sir Joseph. Mr. Samuel Firth was asked to preside :t the ceremony.

The Liberals of Marsden decided that they would make a great day of it. Arrangements were made to provide 300 knife and fork teas in the Wesleyan Sunday School, and that Marsden Band be engaged to play from 3 p.m. to dusk. For that fair stint of blowing they were paid the princely sum of £2 10s. “and their tea, as per tender.” Games and amusements were arranged to take place in Cellars Clough Park. The cost of the tea and the gala was ls. 3d. and for those who decided to go home for tea, the charge for the gala only was 6d.

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usda14sIY

I he foundation-stones

ing t

enston

Lay

of the ext

Whit Saturday, June 10th, 1905

Page 21

Stone-laying ceremony

THE great day dawned and the weather was kind. The beef and ham had been delivered to the Wesleyan School, and the army of volunteers, from bread and butter preparers to games stewards, were assembled and ready. It was a happy day for Marsden, but at that time no-one knew that the whole proceedings would be marred by a tragic death within little more than 24 hours.

Marsden Band were present at the opening, which began at 3-30 p-m. The proceedings opened with the singing of the mer “O God who holdest in Thy hand.” }

The first foundation-stone was laid by Miss Robinson on behalf of her father, Mr. J. B. Robinson, and she was presented with an inscribed silver trowel by Mr. James Schofield on behalf of the builders. Mr. Joseph Crowther was also presented with a silver trowel, and he received the gift from the chairman, Mr. Samuel Firth.

Both Mr. Robinson and Mr. Crowther were among the founders of the club, and it was fitting that both should be associated with the extensions.

Miss Robinson spoke of the affection which her father had for the club, and expressed his sorrow at not being able to attend. She went on: “As a club you are very fortunate in being so_ well represented by such a staunch, upright and liberal-minded man as Sir James Kitson. You are also fortunate in having good, sound Liberals connected with this club, and, with them to lead, the young men will always be reaching forward to what is highest and best in Liberalism. I trust that this club will always be able to look every other club in the face, and that the day is not far distant when the young men of our village will have so increased their interest in and adherence to the cause of temperance that the Marsden Liberal Club will no longer require a licence (applause).

Mr. Crowther, who was president of the Colne Valley Liberal Association, told the gathering that it had been more than thirty years since he first came to Marsden, and though he was no longer a resident in the village, he claimed them as friends, as he was their friend. He hoped that the Liberalism of Marsden, like the Club, would increase and make progress. Mr. Crowther also spoke of the work done by Mr. Henry Fisher in the formation of the Club.

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There were two further speeches yet to be delivered. The first came from Mr. Thomas Willans Nussey, M.P. for Pontefract, who had some strong words to say about the Conservative Government. Reform was wanted, said Mr. Nussey, not because it was desired to set class against class, but because the people ought to have better environments, with better homes, healthy schools for their children, fewer public-houses, and in those ways the people would become more prosperous and happy.

Alderman Ernest Woodhead, of Huddersfield, a son of Mr. Joseph Woodhead, founder of “The Huddersfield Examiner,” said that clubs were very useful for social purposes, and billiard handi- caps were capital things in their way, but something more was required: they must be political educators, and a means of demand- ing those reforms which were so necessary for the well-being of the nation.

Thanks to the speakers were proposed by Mr. EK. W. Crabtree and seconded by Mr. Arthur Robinson, and, after a collection had been made, the proceedings closed with the singing of the hymn, “Lord, while for all mankind we pray.”

Congratulations from CALVERIEY’S

DYSON >| Next door to Liberal Club KNIGHT CONFECTIONER

FRESH BREAD DAILY

BUTCHER Baia Sandwiches to order BRIDGE END HOT PIES DAILY >

MARSDEN ree a

Telephone 844340 Tel. 844101

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After doing justice to their knife and fork tea, the happy people made their leisurely way down Manchester Road to Cellars Clough Park, where they danced to music played by Marsden Band, enjoyed themselves in the various races and games, and gasped in amaze- ment at the daring feats of the members of the Lingards Wood Bottom Gymnasium Club.

THE following day, Whit Sunday, while the people of Marsden were still talking about the previous day’s events, news reached the village that Mr. Joseph Crowther had been killed in a car accident at Slaithwaite.

Mr. Crowther had as his holiday guests at Hay Green, Marsden, Mr. W. H. Armitage, of Edgerton, who was head of the firm of Armitage and Norton, and Mr. George Smith Brook, also of Edger- ton, manager of the Huddersfield Savings Bank.

After lunch the two guests accepted the invitation of Mr. Crowther to go for a ride in his Napier car. Driven by Mr. Crowther’s chauffeur, Mr. John Chapman, the party set off and went over the Standedge to Diggle, and Delph, and returned over Buckstones and Nont Sarah’s to Pole Moor. After passing Pole Moor Chapel Mr. Chapman was

For your Refreshment. . .

Drink {2%

S

softdrinks

Benjamin Shaw & Sons, Ltd., Willow Lane, Huddersfield Telephone 27427/8/9

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Congratulations from

|. BAILLY ANCION LTD.

aun

Wool Scourers and Carbonisers

A Demin ere +

CLOUGH LEE MILLS

MARSDEN Tel. 844311

Congratulations to MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB on their CENTENARY YEAR from

J. E. WHITEHEAD

AND SONS

JOINERS AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

MANCHESTER ROAD

MARSDEN Tel. 844281

Wm. Holroyd & Sons Ltd.

BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS AND STONE MERCHANTS

CLAYFIELD STONEWORKS CRIMBLE HUDDERSFIELD, HD7 5BG

Telephones:

Huddersfield 842770 Huddersfield 54948

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a

about to turn down towards Slaithwaite when Mr. Armitage mentioned another road, a little further along, which went down to Crimble Clough. After turning into this road and travelling down the steep incline for some distance, the car began to gather speed, and despite the efforts of Mr. Chapman, he was unable to control the vehicle.

Half a mile from the top of the road, still unable to check the speed, the vehicle crashed into the embankment and a low wail, throwing the occupants, with the exception of Mr. Crowther, into the road.

Mr. Armitage, Mr. Brook and Mr. Chapman were injured, but My. Crowther lost his life.

The opening

SIR JAMES KITSON, M.P., who had been unable to attend the ceremony for the laying of the foundation-stones, opened the exten- sion before a large gathering.

The extension consisted of a large assembly room on the ground floox, with entrance porch and lavatory. An opening was made in the wall which connected the old reading room and smoke room with the assembly room. A movable partition was fitted into this opening. A new bar was installed. The new billiard room was fitted with three tables, and the room had a raised platform all the way round for the seating. The old billiard room was turned into a lounge.

The original Liberal Club had cost about £1,000 to build; the extension, including the cost of the land, totalled about £1,400.

The building fund stood at £680, with a further £58 promised. Then came two moving incidents. The first was the unveiling by Sir James of a portrait of the late Mr. Joseph Crowther; the second came towards the end of the opening ceremony, when the chairman, Mr. Samuel Firth, told the assembled gathering that he had received a letter from the family of Mr. Crowther. It read: I

“As laying the foundation-stone of the Liberal Club extension was the last public work of Joseph Crowther, we, his children, would like to give a donation of £500 in memory of him. Marsden and Hay Green always had the warmest corner in his heart in spite

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anal

Page 27

of all changes, and we feel we should like Marsden people to remem- ber him.” The letter was signed by Marian Robinson, Florence Maud Crowther, Lucy Annie Moon, Charles Frederick Crowther, John Leonard Crowther, David Stoner Crowther, Joseph Hilton Crowther and Edgar Crowther.

Mr. Firth said that Mr. Crowther took an active interest in the club, and subscribed generously to its funds. He was responsible more than any other man for the alterations of Marsden, for there I was hardly a road or bridge he had not widened. Mr. Firth added that he hoped that some permanent record of the gift would be made, so that those who came after them would know how much the Club was helped by Mr. Crowther and his family in the first thirty

years of its existence.

Among the guests were Alderman Ernest Woodhead and Wm. Crowther, of Slaithwaite, president of the Colne Valley Liberal

Association.

After another knife and fork tea in the Wesleyan School, a social was held in the Liberal Club’s new assembly room, where there was dancing to “an efficient quadrille band.”

A brass plaque fixed in the entrance to the Club records the valuable work and financial support which Mr. Joseph Crowther gave to the Marsden Liberal Club.

Later improvements

MANY years were to pass before the Club embarked on any further modernisation scheme. The Second World War put an end to all ideas of improvements, and for five or six years, instead of the quiet clinking of glasses and the chatter of contented members, the club reverberated to the heavy clomp of soldiers boots, and instead of members talking about the fortunes of the village football team, there was constant talk from Servicemen, ranging from the hoped- for fate of the sergeant-major to when their next spell of leave

would be.

Happily, it all came to an end and the officers of the Club were able once again to turn their attention to necessary improvements. A start was made in 1951, when the bar was extended, the central partition moved 3ft., and a billiard table removed.

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Congratulations from

W. HANSOM

Plumber, Electrician and Heating Engineer Estimates Free

Cet

8 DIRKER BANK ROAD MARSDEN

HUDDERSFIELD Tel. 843722

Congratulations from

SCOTTISH & NEWCASTLE BREWERIES LID.

EDINBURGH HOUSE GARFORTH, YORKS. to MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB on reaching their

century

LEEDS

DRANSFIELD NOVELTY CO. LID.

ELECTRICAL and AUTOMATIC AMUSEMENT MACHINE MANUFACTURERS extend Congratulations to MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB

PROSPECT WORKS, -~ UPPER ACCOMMODATION ROAD,

Tel. Leeds 0532 30641 (6 lines)

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Great progress has been made in the past 10 years in the £8,000 modernisation scheme. Here are two shots of the comfortable

Lounge

lwenty-seven

Page 30

T. H. SHAW & SONS LIMITED

MARKET PLACE, SLAITHWAITE

Mechanical Engineering Plumbing Electrical Contractors Telephone Huddersfield 842693

DRY-N-WASH (Slaithwaite) Ltd.

MARKET PLACE, SLAITHWAITE

Launderette & Dry Cleaning Centre

FULL TIME ATTENDANT AT YOUR SERVICE

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Thirty-one

scheme was the complete Spacious and comfortable

The final phase of the improvement modernisation of the dance hall.

Page 34

pearson

histyle

Ladies’ Hair Stylists Expert Cutting,

Blow Waving, Perming,

Tinting, Hair Pieces, etc.

For Appointment Ring Hudd 844001

Washeteria 12ib. — 16lb. Washers Drying Dry Cleaning

Shamporal—Carpet Cleaning Hire

36 PEEL STREET, MARSDEN

THE PENNINE WEAVER

Traditional Cloth Maker Textile Museum Hand Loom Weaver

aa ammo)

23 PEEL STREET MARSDEN Tel. 843879

MARSDEN CONSERVATIVE CLUB LTD. extend their congratulations to MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB on the occasion

of their Centenary

DANCES, WHIST DRIVES and BINGO SESSIONS HELD REGULARLY

Page 35

But the situation has changed, though after the decision was taken m June, 1908, to admit lady members at a fee of ls. per year, they were restricted in the use of the Club premises. It was an “Upstairs, Downstairs” situation in reverse, for women were not allowed to set foot in the bar room.

Now they are an accepted, and valuable section of the Club, having their own meetings, social activities and officers.

Odds and ends

TO browse through the minute books of any organisation is both rewarding in the wealth of knowledge that can be gained, and amus- ing in the thoughts that can be conjured up. The records of Marsden Liberal Club are no exception. As has previously been reported, the early records are not available, the first minute book dating from 1901. Here are some extracts from the deliberations of the Directors’ meetings and, later, the Committee Meetings.

The members of the Club never missed an opportunity for staging a meal and a dance. At a meeting in December, 1901, it was decided that a tea and ball be held for 250 people, with the charge for the meal and the dance being ls. 3d. The Directors agreed that four policemen should be given free teas.

Hardly had the new year of 1902 been with us than it was agreed “that we get the new game Ping Pong. and that the price be 2d. per half-hour.” It would be interesting to know what some of the serious billiards players said about that, though they would have agreed with the ruling which stipulated that no member could put his name on both slates at the same time.

In June, 1902, like every other town and village throughout the land, Marsden celebrated the Coronation of King Edward VII, and after deciding that application be made for an extension to 11 p.m., it was further agreed that the Club be closed during the time of the procession.

For quite a number of years it was customary to hold lectures the Club, when various persons were invited to speak on, and answer questions about, the great issues of the day. Two of them in 1903 were “Our Liberties: How they were won and how they are I

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SCHOFIELD & HANSOM

PEEL STREET -— MARSDEN Telephone: 844318

GROCERS AND CORN MERCHANTS

TRY OUR FINEST TUB BUTTER CHESHIRE CHEESE AND CHEDDAR I ROLLED BACON FRESH ROASTED AND GROUND COFFEE

FOR YOUR GARDEN, BONE MEAL, LIME, BALE OF STRAW, Etc. ORDERS DELIVERED

A. BAGLEY

(P. Bagley, M.B.1.E., M.N.A.F.D.) FUNERAL DIRECTOR

MANCHESTER ROAD, MARSDEN

Nr. HUDDERSFIELD Telephone Huddersfield 844289

Residence: Oakdene, Marsden. Telephone Huddersfield 844260

A complete funeral service with efficiency and understanding

Private Chapel of Rest Cremations arranged

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threatened,” and “Free Trade v. Protection.” In the same year the clubkeeper, as he was then called, was allowed to spend up to ls. a roll for wallpaper for his living quarters, and it was decided that “the closets be altered to the tub system.” Back to the tea and ball planned for 1903. It was agreed that such a function should be held and a move was made that a bar be provided, together with three bowls of whisky punch, with oranges for the ladies. The whisky punch hopefuls received a severe setback I when it was rejected, and at the following meeting, when this item came up in the minutes, Mr. Samuel Firth had some strong words to say about the idea. Two years later the whisky punchers were pressing again, but as before, the idea was rejected, and it was fresh fruit all round. Moving on a few years, in 1926, a special meeting decided that the Club should show some progress and be lit with electricity. It was also decided that a dance be held on Easter Monday, ending at 0-0 a.m. The reading room must have been a well-stocked sanctuary for the more knowledgeable members judging by the list of papers which came up for sale at the Annual Meeting: London Illustrated, Daily Examiner (two copies), Yorkshire Evening News, Yorkshire

MOORHOUSES THE MEMBERS AND COMMITTEE OF of MARSDEN MARSDEN (Prop. P. H. & J. Wood) CRICKET CLUB WISH TO 38 PEEL STREET CONGRATULATE MARSDEN for WOOL, HARDWARE, LIBERAL CLUB FANCY GOODS, TOYS, ON THEIR GROCERIES, etc. “100 NOT OUT”

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Page 38

K.P. FOODS

Suppliers of

CRISPS NUTS - SNACKS - BISCUITS

VAN SALES SERVICE TO CLUBS, PUBS, SCHOOLS AND CATERING OUTLETS

Telephone: Leeds 31871 Congratulations on attaining your Centenary Year

Best wishes and every success for the next 100

J. & A. BEDFORD and T. A. GOULD

First Class Interior and Exterior Decorations PUBS and CLUBS A SPECIALITY

We also undertake Ceramic and Floor Tiling Loft Insulation and Woodworm Treatment

HEY FARM, MARSDEN Telephone Hudds 844282

22 LORD STREET, HILL TOP, SLAITHWAITE Telephone Hudds

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Page 39

Evening Post, Manchester Evening News, Manchester Evening Chronicle, Manchester Guardian, Daily News, Daily Despatch, York- shire Post, Oldham Chronicle, Westminster Gazette, Windsor maga- zine, Royal magazine, Ideas, Weekly Examiner and Tit-Bits. Quite a formidable list.

By 1928 — when the gay young things of Marsden were dancing away most Friday evenings until 4 and 5 a.m. the following morning before making their way home to change for a half-day’s work in the mills—the charge for the popular Yellow Stir was 2s. 6d. H. Cox’s Band was a favourite in those days.

In these times of inflation, it is interesting to note that in 1920, when the outside of the Club was painted, it cost all of £14.

Ten years later, when the seats in the dance room were re-covered for £24 15s., it was agreed that volunteers and delegates from the Club should meet representatives from the other political clubs in the village regarding a Relief Committee which was being set up.

In 1933 the following were elected trustees: Joe Sykes, Fred Hol- royd, William Morton, Arthur Bradbury, Thos. Firth (jun), Norman

FOR ALL YOUR HOUSEHOLD CLEANING, YOU CANNOT DO BETTER THAN USE

STARDROPS

ALL PURPOSE CLEANSER IT CLEANS MILLIONS OF THINGS

Have you tried

STARPINE PINE DISINFECTANT

STARCLEN POWER CLEANER WITH AMMONIA

STARTIPS FLORAL DISINFECTANT

These are first class products which you will like

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~CONGRATULATIONS FROM

fA. & AL DYSON

MARKET PLACE, MARSDEN

FRESH FISH, FRUIT AND VEGETABLES DAILY FROZEN FOODS AND GROCERIES ALL AT COMPETITIVE PRICES ORDERS DELIVERED

FLOWERS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Pennine Bitter

drives out the northern thirst

SAMUEL WEBSTER & SONS LTD.

FOUNTAIN HEAD BREWERY OVENDEN WOOD HALIFAX - YORKS

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Page 41

Wrigley, Hildred Hoyle, Joe H. Pogson and Harry Quarmby. A few mouths after their election, the trustees, together with the members of the committee, were fighting increasing costs, and the main item was electricity. Even the lights over the ever-popular billiards tables were reduced in a bid to cut the size of the power bills.

In 1935 the skylights in the upper rooms were darkened for a Spirella demonstration, and no-one knew that in four years’ time the same windows would be blacked-out by law. Perhaps a hint of war came in February, 1939, when the Special Constables were given the free use of a room for ambulance training.

And then the darkening skies over Europe were with us, and it was decided that plans for redecorating the club and making altera- tions to the bar parlour and card room be postponed. The Bazaar was held as usual, but all the lights were reduced by 25 per cent as per regulations.

The soldiers who were drafted into the village and stationed at the bleak Tunnel End, were given free membership, while St. Dunstan’s were told that the Club officers were sorry that they could not help because of their own Comforts Fund. As the last few days of 1939 ticked away, the three Club members who were then in the Forces were to receive 5s. each, “if the Comforts Fund allows it.” The secretary resigned because of war work. We were all involved.

As the German bombers darkened our skies, the Club bought one stirrup pump and two buckets “in case of enemy air raids.” It was also thought necessary to have a first aid box.

Soldiers were billeted at the Club, and it was decided that the Government should be asked to pay £3 a week for the privilege. Later, a protest was sent to the War Department against their offer of £40 a year compensation. Eventually, an improved offer of £46 was accepted.

One of the most important decisions taken by the Club committee in 1945 came in March, which requested that all black paint be removed from the windows. The way was open for the Club, even if only slowly, to move and progress.

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THROUGHOUT the 100 years of the Marsden Liberal Club there runs a thread, which has been broken only once, and that as a result of the war. From the very beginnings the members have laid great emphasis of their meat teas — “knife and fork do’s’” which were eagerly anticipated by all. I

The war years took their toll of many customs in village life, and the Yellow Stir was one of them. Although there have been changes in the style of presentation, the Yellow Stirs are back in being. As in the days of long ago, they are now providing an occasion when the members of the Club can join together for a few hours of entertainment and relaxation.

Telephone: Huddersfield 844083

G. SCHOFIELD

DAIRYMAN will be pleased to supply you with MILK - CHEESE - CREAM EGGS and POTATOES Daily

91 BINN ROAD, MARSDEN, HUDDERSFIELD HD7 6HG

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CONGRATULATIONS TO MARSDEN LIBERAL CLUB IN CELEBRATING THEIR CENTENARY YEAR FROM

G. R. PICKARD & SON LTD.

87-89 WAKEFIELD ROAD, HUDDERSFIELD, HD5 9AB Telephone: 28526 (Ansafone)

Also at — 117 ST. JOHN’S ROAD, BIRKBY Telephone: 24100

MARSDEN DARTS LEAGUE

(President: K. SMITH, Esq.)

CONGRATULATIONS ON ACHIEVING YOUR “TON” Team Entries and Agents always welcome to support our “OLD FOLK PARTY FUND” Please contact Secretary: Mr. J. T. FLINT, Bank Top Farm Tel. Hudds 844486

BEST WISHES FROM

J. &@ H. D. PARKIN

JOINERS AND BUILDERS

HILL TOP, SLAITHWAITE

HUDDERSFIELD Telephone Hudds 842124


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