Huddersfield Chronicle (23/Dec/1886) - Death of Thomas Brook of Hartley
DEATH OF THOMAS BROOK OF HARTLEY.
We record with profound feelings of regret the death of the above-named gentleman. In the early days of Huddersfield, during Sir John Ramsden's minority, and the laying out of what was then known as the new town, Mr Brook was a conspicuous figure, in conjunction with the then agent, Mr Alexander Hathorne. Few men have lived amongst us who possessed a larger share of public respect, his thorough integrity and professional honour being recognised on every hand; while in social life he was an excellent conversationalist, and had all the freedom of manners becoming a well-bred gentleman. Under whatever circumstances he was brought into contact with others these traits of character never left him, and to a large circle of friends his death, which took place early on Wednesday morning last, in the 68th year of his age, will prove an irreparable loss. Mr Brook was a Conservative in politics, taking a deep interest in that cause, and was chairman of the Conservative Association at Kirkburton. He was an earnest Churchman, and by his death the church at Shelley sustains an irreparable loss. Not only was he one of the principal promoters in its erection about 18 years ago (from which time he has been vicar's warden) but he has been ever ready since then with most generous help and kindly interest in anything connected with the church and schools. He has won the gratitude and esteem of all who have been brought in contact with him. His presence was always cheering, and will be deeply missed by all. The members of the surpliced choir loose in him a friend who was constantly showing by kindly acts (particularly to the younger members) his very deep interest in them, and which could only be fully appreciated by those who had the opportunity of co-operating with him. The Mission Church at Aspley owed much to Mr and Mrs Brook's assistance and active support in its formation. Mr Brook was articled to Mr Dinsley, land surveyor, but concluded his indentures with the late Mr George Crowther, alter which he was for some time local engineer to the Leeds and Liverpool canal. He was for many years surveyor to the Huddersfield estate of Sir J. W. Ramsden, and commenced business in the town some 25 years ago as a land agent, surveyor, and valuer, and continued in extensive practise up to some few months ago, when he retired, leaving his business to his nephew, Mr T. M. Demetriadi, who continues the same in partnership with Mr Joe B. Abbey, of this town. Mr Brook was an associated member of the Institute of Civil Engineers, a fellow of the Surveyors Institute, and a valuer on the staff of the Board of Trade. He was in times past Major in the Volunteers, a member of the Shelley School Board up to the time of his death, and a manager and trustee of the Shelley National School. The funeral will take place at two p.m. on Friday afternoon, at Kirkburton Church.