Reminiscences of Rotherham
by G. Gummer, J.P.
« « prevpassing through. A relative of mine in charge of a high vehicle, unfortunately forgetting to duck, was so seriously injured as to necessitate his removal to hospital.
ST GEORGE’S HALL
Efforts to improve the habits of the people of Rotherham were made by the Vicar, the Rev. William Newton,- who opened and made himself responsible for a coffee house in Well- gate as a counter-attraction to the public-house. Philanthropy, in order to fulfil its mission. must be judicious and well-directed, it must also be sagacious and consistent. Having undertaken this obligation, the Vicar quickly ascertained there was need for greater effort. Relying upon his own astute will and warm heart, he purchased for £1000 the reversion of a lease on the piece of land on which St. George’s Hall now stands and in 1878 built a hall and coffee house worthy of of the town
For some years this became an active medium for the social enjoyment of the industrial classes, It also became a centre for Church work. Unfortunately, the untimely death of this vicar-philanthropist curtailed much of the enthusiasm that had guided its destinies. Gradually its usefulness waned, until it practically became a resort for billiard players and others requiring a meal.
The Corporation, having decided upon the College Yard improvement scheme, the premises were scheduled and eventually pur chased by them for the sum of £6500.
The Great Upheaval of 1914 indefinitely postponed the carrying out of this improve ment, but there are already signs that during the next three years the buildings will be demolished for street widening, and a central Free Library will probably be erected on the spare land.
,DERBY BUTCHER
In the same year as St. George’s Hall was opened, the 'dry bones' of the local butchers were shaken when it became known that Mrs. Simpson, described as 'the Derby Butcher', had purchased the Skating Rink in Howard Street and intended transforming it into an Arcade. A great fuss was made when the opening took place, and for some time, owing to the low prices she sold her meat at, the Arcade was very popular. About two years brought the end. In 1880 a petition was filed, the liabilities being in the teens of thousands.HIGH BAILIFF
Irregularities of the High Bailiff, who had for twenty years or more been connected with the County Court and risen to a position where the emoluments were substantial and the duties important, caused another sensation. A violation of the regulations of the Court brought about his removal.During the enquiry following, the Clerk to the Registrar’s Court made himself most objectionable to the reporters, whose presence he seemed to resent. Scene after scene occurred during the enquiry, culminating in the presumptuous official being told by the representatives of the Press to mind his own business.