Wrathall Obituaries from The Keighley Herald and The Keighley News
(transcribed by Derek Wrathall)
Mary Alice WRATHALL (The Keighley Herald, Friday 31st March 1882, page 5)
STEETON
SUPPOSED SUSPICIOUS DEATH
An inquest was held at the Star Inn, Steeton, on Monday afternoon, before Mr. T. P. Brown,
coroner, touching the death of Mary Alice Wrathall, 20, millhand, who died on Saturday morning.
It appears that the woman had been ill since Christmas, and during her illness she has been
attended by an herbalist named Isaac Wilson of Steeton. The first witness called was the
father of the deceased, Edward Wrathall, Cross-street, Steeton, who said that his daughter was
20 years of age, and was unmarried. She was employed as a weaver, and had always resided with
him. She had not enjoyed good health for the last eight or nine months. Isaac Wilson was the
first person who attended her in July last year. Mr. Chaffers, of Keighley, had attended the
deceased for about three weeks. He did not know why Mr. Chaffers gave up attending the
deceased unless it was owing to the scandalous rumours that were abroad. He (the doctor) said
that there was something in the case that he could not get at. Dr. McNab's assistant attended
the deceased on Friday night at 12 o'clock. Dr. Dobie of Keighley was next called. He said he
had made a post mortem examination on the body on Sunday morning. There were also present Mr.
Chaffers and Dr. Jack. Inflammation of the internal covering of the bowels was the cause of
death. It was of some months standing. Did not find any traces of foul play; there were no
marks either of internal or external violence. She was not enciente. There was no evidence
that she was or ever had been pregnant. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the
doctor's evidence.
[See also the Yorkshire 1881 Census: Keighley]
Robert WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 13 April 1912, page 6)
DEATH OF MR. ROBERT WRATHALL
The death took place at Grassington on Saturday last of Mr. Robert Wrathall of Farnhill Hall,
Kildwick. Mr. Wrathall, who was fifty years of age, was a prominent Craven cattle dealer, and
was a familiar figure at Yorkshire markets. For many years he was the largest buyer of cattle
in the Craven dales, and had big consignments weekly from Scotland, where he was well known and
much respected. Mr. Wrathall had been in failing health for some time. Mr. Wrathall was a
native of Grassington, and commenced business there as a butcher and cattle dealer some
twenty-seven years ago, and had by determined perseverance and business capabilities built up
one of the largest businesses of the kind in the country. He left Grassington some sixteen
years ago, and went to live at The Farm, Keighley Road, Skipton, and carried on his business
there until March 1906, when Mr. F. E. Slingsby left Farnhill Hall, whence Mr. Wrathall then
went to reside, leaving his eldest son, Mr. W. Wrathall, to manage the farm at Skipton. His
only recreation was music, which he dearly loved. He was for many years a member of Linton
Church choir, and after taking up residence at Farnhill Hall was for some time a member of the
Kildwick Church choir. He was at the time of his death president of Compagni
Anglo-Bélgé Garston Féré Société Anonyme, Brussels,
and chairman of Garston Ltd., Marble Merchants, 10, Adelphi Street, London, whose works are in
Belgium. Mr. Wrathall was fifty years of age, and leaves a widow, three sons and two
daughters.
The funeral took place on Tuesday at Linton Church. The ceremony was attended by a gathering
representative of business and farming interests in the North. In addition to Thomas Duckett
(chairman of the Skipton Urban Council), there were present Mr. J. Carson (Dumfries), Mr. S.
Mitchell (Skipton), Mr. Craven Fort (Cross Hills), Mr. G. Holden (Bolton), Mr. H. Jackson
(Gisburn), Mr. J. Long (Dewsbury), Mr. T. Whittaker (Clitheroe), Mr. T. Metcalfe (Skipton), Mr.
R. Hobill (Leeds, representing the Midland Railway Company), Mr. J. Howard and Mr. D. Armstrong
(representing the Skipton Auction Mart Company), Mr. T. H. Taylor (Skipton), Mr. T. S. Taylor
(York City and County Bank), Mr. S. Spensley, Mr. R. Pratt (Skibeden), Mr. H. Broadhead
(Leeds), Mr. T. F. Hammond (Hebden), Mr. J. Varley (Skipton), Mr. W. Baldwin (Skipton), the
Rev. J. H. Middleton, and Mr. G. Bottomley (Farnhill). A short service was conducted in the
church by the Rev. J. Leighton (Rector of Linton) and the Rev. J. C. Watson (Vicar of
Cononley), the former subsequently officiating at the graveside.
[See also Robert W. Wrathall's Lineage]
Second Lieutenant L. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 21st April 1917, page 3)
STEETON
SECOND LIEUTENANT L. WRATHALL
Second Lieutenant L. Wrathall (25) of the Australian Forces, son of Mr. C. C. Wrathall of Hazel
Crook, Steeton, a well known Keighley worsted spinner, has been wounded by shrapnel in the
face, and is at present in hospital in London. Lieutenant Wrathall was educated at the Steeton
Council School, and at the age of 10 obtained a county minor scholarship which enabled him to
study at the Keighley Trade and Grammar School. At 17 he gained a county major scholarship,
and for four years studied at South Kensington, where he took his B.Sc. degree and A.R.F.M..
He received an appointment with the Australian Government, and went to New Guinea. Shortly
after war broke out he joined the Australian Expeditionary Force in Sydney, and had been at the
front for nine months.
(The Keighley News, Saturday 28th April 1917, page 3)
LOCAL HEROES OF THE WAR
Photograph of Second Lieutenant L. L. Wrathall formerly of Steeton - wounded.
LEONARD L. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 19th May 1928, page 6)
DIED AT 36
MR. LEONARD L. WRATHALL of Steeton , an old boy of the Keighley Grammar School, who has died at
Timor Island, off the North Australian coast, at the age of 36.
(The Keighley News, Saturday 19th May 1928, page 13)
STEETON
DEATH OF MR. L. L. WRATHALL
Mr. and Mrs. Wrathall, Sunny Bank, Steeton, on Monday received the sad news of the death on 5
April at Timor Island, off the North Australian coast, of their only son, Mr. Leonard L.
Wrathall.
The deceased, who was 36 years of age, was an old scholar of the Keighley Boys Grammar School
which he attended for between six and seven years after winning a minor county scholarship,
subsequently gaining a scholarship which offered a university course or a course at South
Kensington. He chose the latter and gained a degree of B.Sc. and A.R.C.M.. Then accepting the
offer of a lucrative appointment with the Australian Government in 1913 he did duty in British
New Guinea and several other distant parts of the Empire.
Soon after the outbreak of war in 1914 he joined the Australian forces and spent three and a
half years in the Army, gaining the rank of Lieutenant in the Australian Tunnelling Corps and
being concerned in the operations which led to the blowing up of Hill 60.
At the conclusion of hostilities he had a brief spell of home life and then took up engagements
abroad, in distant parts, with the Anglo-Persian Oil Company, often with no associates other
than native workers. For some time he had been in charge of boring operations for oil on
behalf of an Australian syndicate. He is survived by a widow and a young son, both in
Australia.
A member of a well known local family, Mr. Wrathall was a man of high attainments and
unassuming maner. He was held in high esteem and much sympathy will go out to his widow, his
parents, and his sister, Miss E. Wrathall.
[See also the page concerning Leonard Langdale Wrathall]
James WRATHALL ( The Keighley News, Saturday 31st July 1920)
UTLEY
DEATH OF MR. JAMES WRATHALL
The death took place on Saturday afternoon of a well-known and highly respected Utley resident,
in the person of Mr. James Wrathall of Rose Cottage. He had been in failing health for some
time, but was not taken seriously ill until two or three days before his death. It is about
sixty years since Mr. Wrathall came from Rawtenstall to Utley. Afterwards he went back to
Lancashire for a few years, returning about forty-five years ago to Rose Cottage, Utley where
he had since carried on business as a farmer. In the days when the Keighley Agricultural
Society's show was of county importance Mr. Wrathall took an active interest in the event. He
was 66 years of age, and leaves a widow, five sons, and two daughters, one of whom recently
returned home on a visit from Canada.
The funeral took place on Wednesday, the interment being made at Keighley Cemetery, and the
obsequies conducted by the Rev. D. K. Cook (Parish Church). In addition to members of the
family, there were present Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Varley, Mr. John Smith (Manor Farm), Mr. and Mrs.
Benson Wrathall (Steeton), Mr. Batty, Mr. C. F. W. Rishworth, Mr. J. M. Sellers, Mr T. H. Burr,
Mr. Helliwell, Mr. Robert Sugden, Mr. H. Stott (Hollins), Mr. C. Bailey, Mr. C. Barron, Mrs.
Bancroft (Meadowfield), Mr. J. Hartley, Mr. Halle Hartley, Mr. E. Broadley (Steeton), Mr. J.
Dixon (Morton Banks), Mr. P. Asquith, Mr. E. England, Mr. G. C. Pickles, Mr. C. Burrell, and Mr
J. W. Whiteoak, Messrs. T. Ramsden & Son had charge of the funeral arrangements.
[See also the Yorkshire 1881 Census: Keighley
and the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Keighley]
Mrs. Sarah WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 26th February 1927)
DEATH OF MRS. SARAH WRATHALL
A well known and familiar Steeton figure passed away on Wednesday morning at her residence in
Mill Lane in the person of Mrs. Sarah Wrathall. The deceased, who was in her seventy-eighth
year, was out so recently as last week, but pneumonia developed last weekend, and her passing
took place in the house where she had resided for over seventy years. Mrs. Wrathall was a
daughter of the late Mr. Tom Smith, a native of Keighley, who had the distinction of being one
of the first, if not the first, power loom weavers in the district. The deceased only recently
recalled her father's experiences during the stormy times which prevailed at the time of the
introduction of the power loom. Her father on one occasion had to stay three weeks in the
premises where he worked in order to avoid the mobs.
Mrs. Wrathall will best be remembered by her long connection with the Primitive Methodist cause
in the village. It was a life-long association, and as a Sunday school worker for over sixty
years she also in other ways filled a useful and honoured position in the church. Several years
ago she was the recipient of an illuminated address from the school officials in recognition of
her many services. Deceased is survived by her son, Mr. Hume Wrathall, who is organist and
choir master at the Primitive Methodist Chapel.
[See also the Family History of Hume Wrathall]
John WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 29 October 1927, page 6 and page 14)
FORMER BUSINESS MAN (page 6)
(Photograph) The late Mr. John Wrathall of Riddlesden, formerly managing director of the iron
and steel merchanting firm of J. W. Laycock, of Keighley, who died last week-end.
DEATH OF A KEIGHLEY BUSINESS MAN (page 14)
MR. JOHN WRATHALL
Mr. John Wrathall, who died on Saturday at his residence, The Bungalow, Scott Lane, Riddlesden,
Keighley, after a few weeks illness, had forty five year's connection with the firm of J. W.
Laycock Ltd., iron and steel merchants, Keighley. He started with the firm as a youth, was
manager for the late Mr. J. W. Laycock for many years, and from the formation of the company in
1916 he was managing director down to his retirement two years ago. On his retirement a
handsome presentation was made to him by the directors and staff of the firm. He was at one
time Secretary of the Keighley Cricket Club and a member of the committee, and was also a
member of Keighley Golf Club. He did duty as a special constable during the war, and at the
time of his death was secretary of the Keighley Economic League. He was widely known in
business circles and highly respected. He was 64 years of age and leaves a widow and one
daughter.
THE FUNERAL
The funeral took place on Wednesday at the Keighley Cemetery, the service at the house and the
last rites at the graveside being performed by the Rev. H. S. Fowke (Vicar of Riddlesden).
Among the personal and business friends present were: Mr. A. Robinson (Colwyn Bay), Mr. James
Hargreaves, Mr. F. Keighley, Mr. J. Hodgson. Mr. A. Clough, Mr. H. Clough, Mr. F. Hartley, Mr.
W. Woodhouse, Mr. James Crabtree (Morton Banks), Mr. N. Sunderland, Mr. G. A. Smith, Mr. W. H.
Mather, Mr. B. Holmes, Mr. William Dewhirst, Mr. J. Dickinson, Mr. C. Mawson, Mr. W Naylor, Mr.
James Mitchell, Mr. J. Rothers, Dr. J. Spencer, Mr. W. Midgley, Mr. G. Brown, Mr. S. Hartley
(who also represented the Morton Banks Liberal Association), Mr. G. Coates, Mr. H. Hartley, Mr.
James Smith, Mr. William Robertshaw, Mr. W. Healey, Mr. W. Rowland, Mr. S. Sunderland, Mr J.
Clayton (Skipton), Mr J. Wrathall, Mr. C. C. Wrathall, Mr. C. Hudson, Messrs. U. Stowell and W.
S. Clapham (Messrs. Clapham Bros., Keighley), Mr. J. C. Robinson (H. V. Robinson Ltd.,
Keighley), Mr. Armstrong (Cordingley, Armstrong and Co., Bradford), Mr. T. W. Rogerson
(Yorkshire Range and Mantel Co., Ltd.), Mr. A G. Ramsden (T. Ramsden and Sons), Mr. H. Bowler,
Mr. H. Binns (R. Binns and Sons), Mr. J. W. Murgatroyd (Messrs. Greenhow and Murgatroyd), Mr F.
Taylor (I. Taylor and Son), Mr. C. H. Whitaker (representing Mr. Jabez Crabtree of Francis F.
Cox (Keighley) Ltd.), Mr. F. F. Wagstaffe (Barclays Bank Ltd.), Mr. R. Barrett (C. Barrett and
Sons), Mr. H. D. Myers, Mr. and Mrs. John Wilkins (Morecambe), Mr T. Darwin, Mr. George C.
Pickles and Mr. Haley (representing William Barraclough, Ltd., Stanningley).
Messrs. A. Binns, J. Sugden and A. Bowker repesented the firm of John W. Laycock and Sons Ltd.,
of which Mr. Wrathall was formerly director.
The Keighley Bowling Club was represented by Messrs. F. D Whitaker, T. Kettlewell, J. R. Fenton
and E. E. Hooper, and Mrs. J. Petty represented Mr. J. Petty (the senior vice president ); Mr.
J. W. Carruthers represented the Keighley Cricket Club, Mr. A. E. Medley the Keighley Golf
Club, and Mr. H. B. Cordingley the Keighley and District Economic League.
[See also the Yorkshire 1881 Census: Keighley
and the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Keighley]
Mrs. J. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 8th November, 1930, page 12)
RIDDLESDEN
DEATH OF MRS. WRATHALL
Mrs. Wrathall of The Bungalow, Riddlesden, widow of Mr. John Wrathall, a former director of J.
W. Laycock Ltd., ironmongers, Keighley, died yesterday afternoon after an illness extending
over several months. Before going to Riddlesden some half dozen years ago Mr. and Mrs. Wrathall
had resided for a long period at Utley and Mrs. Wrathall had taken a deep interest in many
social and charitable movements and organisations in Keighley. She served on the Infants Aid
Society and the Soldiers and Sailors Families Association and was interested in the Scout
movement.
She also did a great amount of work in connection with the hospital opened in the Spencer
Street Schools during the war.
Always an ardent Liberal in politics she was associated with the Keighley Women's Liberal
Association during her residence at Utley, and after removing to Riddlesden acted first as
treasurer and later as president of the Riddlesden Women's Liberal Association. She also
interested herself in the Riddlesden Institute, and was a generous supporter of the Institute
Tennis Club. She leaves one daughter.
[See also the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Keighley]
Mrs C. C. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 14th December 1935, page 15)
STEETON
DEATH OF MRS C. C. WRATHALL
The passing on Thursday morning of Mrs. S. Wrathall, wife of Mr. C. C. Wrathall, of Langdale,
Thornhill Road, Steeton, removes another old and respected resident. The deceased, who was
aged 76, and a native of the Howdenshire district of Yorkshire came to Steeton between 50 and
60 years ago, being previous to her marriage a valued member of the household staff of the late
Mr. Joseph Craven, Park House, Steeton. Of a quiet and kindly disposition Mrs. Wrathall was
until recently a familiar figure in the village, and was held in high esteem by the older
generation of villagers who enjoyed her friendship. She is survived by her husband and one
daughter. Their only son, Leonard died about seven and a half years ago in British New Guinea.
The funeral takes place today at Steeton Cemetery.
[See also the page concerning Leonard Langdale Wrathall]
Mrs. J. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 13th February 1937)
UTLEY
DEATH OF MRS. J. WRATHALL
A familiar and highly respected figure has been lost to Utley by the death of Mrs. Wrathall, of
Rose Cottage. Mrs. Wrathall, who had been ill for some time, passed away on Friday week, was
the widow of Mr. James Wrathall, a well-known farmer, and she came to the farm at Utley on her
marriage about sixty years ago. In her 82nd year she had had a long association with St.
Mark's Church, Utley. The funeral took place on Tuesday, the interment at Keighley Cemetery
being preceded by service at St. Mark's Church, conducted by the Rev. W. A. Henry.
The family mourners were Miss M. Wrathall, Mr. H. Wrathall, Mr. P. Wrathall, Mr. J. Wrathall,
Mrs. J. Wrathall, Mr. R. Wrathall, Mr. H. Wrathall jun. and Master J. Wrathall.
Others present included Mr. John Smith (Kildwick), Mr. John Smith jun. (Kildwick), Miss Dorothy
Smith (Kildwick), Mrs. J. Veal (Crosshills), Miss S. Bottomley (Silsden), Mr. R. Worsick
(Rawtenstall), Mrs. J. Worsick (Rawtenstall), Mr. H. Worsick (Rawtenstall), Miss Hill (St.
Annes), Mr. J. J. Smith, Mr.C. Wrathall, Mr. R. Sugden, Mrs. Wilkinson, Mrs. Brooksbank, Mrs.
C. Hudson, Miss C. Midgley, Miss A. Bancroft, Mr. G. Shuttleworth, Mr. H. Dixon, Mr. H. Stott,
Mrs. F. Smith, Mrs. J. Hutchinson, Mrs. A. Helliwell, Mrs. Craven Laycock, Mrs. Henry, Mrs. J.
Clapham, Mr. J. Laycock, Mr. J. B. Smith, Mrs. Southgate, Mrs. H. Cononley, Mr. and Mrs. H.
Moon and Miss Mattock.
Wreaths were sent by Margaret, John, Ida and Grandson Jim, Jim and Lizzy and Grandson Billy
(Canada), Dick, Grace and Grandson Harold, Percy, Harold and family, All at Kildwick Grange,
Aunt Mary and John, Hettie (Oakmount), Robert and Mary (Oakmount), Sally and Julia (Silsden),
Mr. and Mrs. Hudson, Margaret and Kathleen, Carrie, Cousin Patty and family (Blackpool), Ada
and Emmie Bancroft, Mrs. Mattocks and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Hutchinson, M. and M. Shackleton
(Burley-in-Wharfedale), Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Wrathall (Steeton), Mr. and Mrs. Charles Smith, M.
Butterfield, Mrs. Southgate, Mrs. Craven Laycock, Mrs. Hodkinson, All at Hollings Farm, and
Mrs. Throupe and family.
George Pickles and Sons Ltd., Utley, had charge of the funeral arrangements.
[See also the Yorkshire 1881 Census: Keighley
and the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Keighley]
Mr. C. C. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 28th May 1937, page 18)
AN OLD VOLUNTEER
MR. C.C. WRATHALL OF STEETON
The death occurred on Saturday of Mr. Charles Coulton Wrathall of Langdale, Thornhill Road,
Steeton. Mr. Wrathall, who was in his seventy-fifth year, was all his life connected with the
woollen industry, being for between 35 and 40 years in the employ of Messrs. John Clough and
Son, and for some nine years manager of the spinning department of that firm. He was for
several years in business on his own account at Fleece Mills, Keighley. Joining the Old
Volunteer force at Keighley as a youth, he rose to the rank of colour-sergeant of F Company and
retired when the age limit came into force and was one of the last of the old brigade of the
non-commissioned officers of the old days of this volunteer movement. One of his cherished
possessions was the long service medal. With characteristic enthusiasm for any activity he
took in hand he took up ambulance work and for a number of years was closely identified with
the movement locally, and during the Great War was always present to assist when convoys of
wounded reached Keighley. He also joined the special constables and was assiduous in carrying
out the duties attached to the 93specials in war time and afterwards. For many years Mr.
Wrathall was an active worker in connection with St. Stephen's Church and Sunday School, and in
politics a supporter of the National Government.
In the years immediately after the war Mr. Wrathall was a member of the local Parish Council,
and at the time of his death a committee man of Steeton Lily of Airedale Oddfellows Lodge, with
which his connection extended over fifty years. Mrs. Wrathall died several years ago and he is
survived by his daughter Mrs. Glaves.
The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon. The vicar of Sutton (in the absence of the Rev.
D. F. Coles. Vicar of Steeton) officiated at the service held at St. Stephen's Church and at
the graveside in Steeton Cemetery. The hymn,Peace Perfect Peace was sung and Mrs. A. Tempest
presided at the organ. The mourners included:- Mr. and Mrs. J. Glaves (daughter and
son-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Wrathall, Mr. and Mrs. M. Brooksbank, Mr. T. Wrathall, Mr. J.
H. Dixon, Mr. and Mrs. H. Wilkinson, Miss M. Dixon, Miss A. Brooksbank, Mrs. M?. Wrathall, Mr.
and Mrs. J. H. Hartley and Miss Hartley (Keighley).
Amongst the friends present were Mrs. J. May, Mrs. J. W. Twisleton, Miss H. Butterfield, Miss
L. Holdsworth, Mr. R. P. Wilson, Mr. Herbert Staith?, Mr. ? Taylor, Mr. G. Wilson, Mr. J.
Harker, Mr. W. Butcher, Mrs. M. Jackson, Mr. J. Boothman, Mr. B. B. Whiteoak and Mr. J. ?.
Harker.
Messrs. T. Davy and Co. had charge of the funeral arrangements.
[See also the page concerning Leonard Langdale Wrathall]
Mrs. J. B. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 3rd February 1940, page 9)
STEETON
DEATH OF MRS. J. B. WRATHALL
Although she had been in indifferent health for some time past, the death on Monday evening of
Mrs. M. J. Wrathall, the wife of Mr. J. B. Wrathall, of Barrows Lane, Steeton, came as a shock
to her many friends in the district. Mrs. Wrathall, who was 68 years of age, was associated
with her husband in the business of grocers and caterers, and was well known to older Steeton
residents as one of a generous disposition and ready to help any good cause. A native of
Warwickshire, she had resided in Steeton for between 40 and 50 years, and before her marriage
was a valued member of the household staff at Steeton Hall, when the late Mrs. Craven resided
there. She was one of the early members of the Steeton Women's Conservative Association. The
funeral took place at Steeton Cemetery yesterday. A service at St. Stephen's Church conducted
by the Rev. D. F. Coles (Vicar) preceded the interment.
[See also the page concerning Leonard Langdale Wrathall
and the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Steeton with Eastburn]
Mr. Hume WRATHALL (The Keighley News, 14 April 1951, page 5 with photograph)
AN OUTSTANDING CONDUCTOR
DEATH OF MR. HUME WRATHALL
The death of Mr. Hume Wrathall of Craglands, Steeton at the age of 72, has removed an
outstanding figure from Craven musical circles.
A native of Steeton he conducted both the Skipton Male Voice Choir and the Steeton Glee Union
for many years, and under his leadership they became leading choirs in the North of
England.
The Skipton choir carried off the coveted prize at Blackpool Festival three years in succession
in 1'6-7-8 becoming the first choir to do this. It also broadcast under his leadership.
Mr. Wrathall's association with the Steeton Glee Union commenced at its formation in 1907, and
they too obtained many distinctions under his baton.
At one period he had three choirs in his charge - Skipton, Steeton and Prince Smith and Son,
Keighley. At Shipley Musical Festival on one occasion Skipton took first prize, Steeton second
and the Keighley choir third.
For many years he was organist and choir master at Keighley Road Methodist Church, Steeton - he
began to conduct when he was 18 - and in addition to being an expert on vocal music was an
accomplished violinist.
Mr. Wrathall had been a wood turner at the Steeton firm of John Dixon and Sons, bobbin
manufacturers, and he became director of the firm of John Clough and Sons, spinners, which
closed down shortly before the outbreak of the first World War. He also acted as cashier to
the firm.
FUNERAL TRIBUTES
The interment took place on Tuesday at Steeton Cemetery and was preceded by a service in
Keighley Road Methodist Church, Steeton, conducted by the Rev. C. Williamson of Silsden. The
large congregation included practically all the members of the Steeton Glee Union and Skipton
Male Voice Choir, and in tribute to Mr. Wrathall they sang during the service, one of Mr.
Wrathall's favourite hymns,Lead Kindly Light to the tuneSandon.
In an address, Mr. Williamson paid tribute to Mr. Wrathall's work for the church and in the
field of music. The organist was Miss Marie Cockshott.
Family mourners were Mrs. H. Wrathall (widow), Miss A. Gill (cousin), Mr. and Mrs. Watson, Mrs.
Webster, Mrs. A. Bilsborough, Mrs. J. Sugden, Mr. and Mrs. L. Sugden, Mr. C. Thornton, Mrs. H.
Wadsworth, Mr. H. Towers, Mrs. Barker, Mr. A. G. Petty, and Mrs. E. Holdsworth.
Various organisations with which Mr. Wrathall had been associated were represented as follows:-
Keighley Road Methodist Church, Steeton, Messrs. J. Wilson, E. Davy, T. Davy, H. Taylor, H.
Baghurst, F. Stirk, H. Cockshott, and G. Cockshott (representing the trustees) and Mrs. C.
Wadsworth, Mrs. E. Davy, Mrs. F. Stirk, Miss L. M. Holdsworth, Miss B. Cathy, Mrs. T.
Stanbridge, Mrs. E. Taylor (representing Mrs. A. D. Ellison) and Mrs. H. Taylor.
Steeton Male Glee Union: Messrs. F. Stirk, A. Nowell, L. Holmes, W. Dewhirst, A. Greenwood, F.
Lewis, S. Tillotson, A. Wilson, J. Brown, S. Dawes, L. Dawes, J. Wilson, H. Greenwood, H.
Ellison, J. Buttle, J. Taylor, L. Pearce, and W. Whitehead.
Skipton Male Voice Choir: Messrs. F. Myers, A. Feather, H. Willis, F. Smith, C. Wilson, G.
Blackmore, A. Middleton, R. K. Ashley (representing Mr. E. H. Ashley), Mr. Mould, and Mr.
Dawson. Keighley Vocal Union: Mr. J. Drury
Personal friends included Messrs. H. D. Myers, J. Cockshott, J. Sedgewick, T. M. Greenway, J.
Brown, J. W. Greenwood, H. Wall, J. A. Smith, A. Taylor, H. Sugden, H. Greenwood, J. W. Browes
and W. Thornton. Mesdames H. Holgate, F. Cockcroft, W. Dixon, P. Davy, S. Moule, F. N. Dixon,
R. Chadwick, W. Clarke, and I. Stott. Mr. and Mrs. F. Whittaker, Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Bennett,
Capt. and Mrs. S. H. Clarke, Mr. and Mrs. H. Whitehead, Mr. and Mrs. T. Davy.
[Note: in Dec. 2005, Derek Wrathall prepared an article on the
family history of Hume Wrathall, which appeared in the Wharfedale FHG newsletter
and the Keighley & District Journal. Derek mentioned the following about the article:
Hume Wrathall, .... who
was a locally celebrated choirmaster, is a relative. His grandfather, Edward, was an
older brother of my great grandfather, Thomas. I think the quickest way for me to explain
this is to attach a copy of an article I did for our family history group newsletter. You
will see reference in the "tree" to May Amelia Wrathall who married Norman Elly. Sadly,
May died on 1 Dec 2005 [see Derek's transcription of the notice in The Craven Herald and
Pioneer].... The first half [of the article]
has also been published in the Keighley & District Journal, and a lady rang me to say that one
of her ancestors, who hired out wagonettes, had kept a record in which were the dates that he
hired a wagonette to Hume Wrathall for choir outings.]
Miss Amy WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 21st May 1955, page 16)
EDUCATIONAL LINK BROKEN
DEATH AT COWLING OF MISS AMY WRATHALL
A link with the past, and with the beginning of organized education in Cowling, has been
severed by the death of Miss Amy Wrathall, of Croft House, Cowling. Miss Wrathall was a member
of a family who came to Cowling in 1875, when her mother, Mrs. Mary Wrathall, was appointed the
first headmistress of the newly-opened Cowling Board School.
Although for a short time there was insufficient accommodation in the new school, and Mrs.
Wrathall had to carry on her work in the Old Church School, she remained as headmistress until
1911, when she was succeeded by her daughter, the late Miss Eunice Wrathall, who was
headmistress until 1938. Thus the Wrathall family have been associated with the education life
at Cowling for over 60 years.
The passing of Miss Amy will revive many happy memories of school life among several
generations. She herself often assisted her sister by teaching a class when the occasion
demanded it. The Wrathalls were always kindly and gracious in manner, and many hundreds of
scholars received benefit of tuition given with patience and friendliness, which lacked nothing
in thoroughness and discipline.
Of Quaker origin, the family retained their association with the Society of Friends throughout
their whole life. Miss Wrathall maintained to the end her interest in village affairs and was
actively associated with Cowling Nursing Association practically throughout the whole of its
existence. The funeral took place yesterday (Friday) week.
[See also the 1851 Census returns from Huddersfield
and the 1901 Census of Yorkshire: Cowling]
Mr. A. W. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Saturday 7th January 1955, page 12)
COWLING
LATE MR. A. W. WRATHALL
The funeral took place at Holy Trinity Church, Cowling, on Saturday of Mr. Angus W. Wrathall,
of Croft House, Cowling. Mr. Wrathall, who had been in failing health for about two years, was
78 years of age, and was the youngest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. W. Wrathall who came to
Cowling from Lothersdale 80 years ago. He was a member of the Society of Friends and a former
head boy of Ackworth School. Mr. Wrathall had been associated with C. E. Taylor and Co., tea
merchants, of Leeds, for 53 years, retiring from active work in 14 and from the board of
directors only three years ago. Of a reserved disposition, he was very fond of walking and had
a great knowledge of the history of the village and of its plant life. Mr. Wrathall was a
descendant of the Lothersdale martyr, Joseph Brown, who was sent to York Prison at the
beginning of the nineteenth century for refusing to pay Church tithes, and who helped to build
the Society of Friends Meeting House in Lothersdale. A bachelor, he lived alone since the
death of his sister [Amy, above] seven months ago.
[See also Keighley Area Memorial Inscriptions
]
John Henry WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Friday 5th December 1969, page 12)
TENANT FARMERS FOUNDER DIES
A founder member of the Craven Tenant Farmer's Association, Mr. John Henry Wrathall of Rose
Cottage, Utley, died at his home, on Monday, aged 92.
Mr. Wrathall, well known in the area as a farmer, had the distinction of being amongst the
first scholars at St. Mark's Sunday School, in the days before the present church was
built.
He led an active life and right up to his death insisted on feeding the animals every day. He
leaves a widow and a married son.
[See also the Yorkshire 1881 Census: Keighley
and Keighley Area Memorial Inscriptions]
Richard WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Friday 29th December 1972)
DEATHS
WRATHALL - On December 26, at Grange Cottage, Station Road, Oakworth, Richard aged 87 years,
the dearly-loved husband of the late Grace Wrathall and dear father of Harold and Terry. Will
friends please meet at the Private Chapel of Maurice Leach and Co., Oaklands, Skipton Road,
Keighley, today, Friday, at 11.15a.m. for service prior to cremation at Skipton. Flowers to
Oaklands please.
Harold B. WRATHALL (The Keighley News, Friday 7th March 1997, page 32)
DEATHS
WRATHALL - On March 3, suddenly, at his home in Oakworth, Keighley, Wing Commander Harold B.
Wrathall MBE, RAF, Retired, aged 78 years, the dearly loved husband of the late Lilian Maude
Teresa (Terry) Wrathall. Service at Christ Church, Oakworth, on Monday, March 10, at 11.30 a.m.
followed by private cremation. No flowers by request please, if desired, donations would be
appreciated for Christ Church. A plate will be provided at the funeral service, or may be sent
c/o Maurice Leach & Son, Oaklands, Skipton Road, Keighley. Enquiries to Sqd. Ldr. E. W.
Jackson RAF Retired (01274578271).
Harold B. Wrathall (Keighley News 20th June 1964, page 10 - with photograph)
Awarded MBE
Flt. Lt. HAROLD WRATHALL of Hawkswick, 211 Bradford Road, Riddlesden, was awarded an MBE
(Military) in the list of Birthday Honours published on Saturday. Flt-Lieut. Wrathall has been
in the Air Force for 24 years.
Educated at Keighley Boy's Grammar School, he worked for a time for the accountants, Jacques
and Stirk, of Keighley. Joining the Royal Air Force in 1939, he served in the Middle East
throughout the war. Later he went to the Far East and for the last three years has been
stationed at Bawtry with Headquarters No. 1 Bomber Group.
Flt.-Lieut. Wrathall has spent nearly all his service with the RAF in the technical branch.
He holds a permanent commission. In 1957 he was awarded the long service and good conduct
medal. A member of the Old Keighlians Association he played for the Keighlians Rugby team for
one season before the war. He has also played for the RAF in representative cricket.
Flt.-Lieut. Wrathall's wife, Mrs. Teresa Wrathall, is a member of Riddlesden Bridge Club and
Townswomen's Guild. His Father has a long association with Vincent Ferrand Limited.
[See also Harold B. Wrathall's Ancestors]