Reminiscences of Rotherham
by G. Gummer, J.P.
« « prevwould not permit such a display now. When money could be spent 'without regard,' the expenses of a municipal contest often ran into alarming figures. The most costly contest I remember was one in the Masbro’ Ward between Mr. William Heaton and Mr. (after wards Alderman) J. Newsum. Certain licensed premises in the ward were thrown open to the voters, and the combined expenses of the two candidates were said to exceed one thousand pounds.
THE MAYOR’S CHAIN
Although the town received its Charter of Incorporation in 1871, ten years elapsed before any insignia of office graced the shoulders of Rotherham’s Mayors. On the initiative of Alderman Tozer, of Sheffield (a member of the firm of Messrs. Steel Peech and Tozer), steps were taken to supply this symbol of civic rank. The necessary funds were subscribed by members of the Council and others, and a local jeweller, Mr. John Mason, was entrusted with the order to provide the insignia of office.It is not genernlly known that the coat of arms on the mayoral chain was added after the first year. Some of the subscribers felt that special recognition was due to Alderman Habershon, Rotherham’s first Mayor, and they decided to carry out the idea. The crest and arms of the Earl of Effingham, lord of the manor of Rotherham, were placed in the centre, with the arms of Alderman Habershon on the right and those of Alderman Marsh, the then Mayor, on the left, all being ex quisitely enamelled in proper heraldic colours.
Although the Corporation Year Book contains the history and description of the mace, the Honorary Freeman’s Roll, and the Mayoress’s chain, no mention is made of this beautiful chain, which won high praise when exhibited, together with the mayoral chains of other places, in London, many years ago. The mayoral robe and cocked hat did not make their appearance until 1891. The proposal to purchase these met with some opposition. Councillors Cox, Winter, and I strongly protested against what we thought to be extravagance and vulgar display. The articles, however, were purchased so that the Mayor should be properly arrayed to receive the Prince of Wales (afterwards King Edward), who had consented to open Clifton Park as he passed through the town after a visit to Wentworth House.
THE PUBLIC PURSE
This may be said to have been carefully guarded in the early days of Incorporation. For instance, in the seventies the Corporation thought the time opportune for extending the borough boundaries, and decided on a tour of inspection. The then Mayor, Mr. B. E. C. Chambers, instructed the Town Clerk to order refreshments from the landlord of the Crown Hotel for the delectation of the members during the journey. Owing to some misunderstanding, instead of refreshments being supplied, a substantial dinner was provided.On their return from this arduous work some of the members partook of the repast, but others who had also been round the borough declined to do so. The viands and wines were dealt with in no niggardly fashion by the few members, who dined and supped sumptuously and afterwards passed a convivial evening together. On the bill being presented, opposition against its payment came from Alderman Neill, and there were some turbulent scenes. Alderman Morgan, in his excitement, produced his cheque book, and, flourishing it, threatened to shame the Council by paying the paltry account himself. Aldermen Neill and Harrison, as a protest against this extravagance, threatened to resign from the committee and left the room. However, after a further display of acrimonious feeling and personal bickering, the bill was passed for payment.