LOCATION:  ROODEN

The Church and Parish of St.Hilda, Prestwich is roughly situated within the southern portion of the municipal boundaries of Rooden Lane Ward.  It is fortunate that in the year 1896 when the County Council held an enquiry in the Assize Courts in Manchester and made an order dividing the district into five wards in Holyrood, Rooden, South, North and Central, that the name ‘Rooden’ should have been adopted, for otherwise, with the passing of time it is more than likely that this very old name, could have been forgotten and perhaps become extinct.

In a ‘History and Traditions of Prestwich’, by the Rev’d W.Nicholls and published in 1905, he says (on page 93) “Rooden Lane – This local name is very old.  It dates back to 14th Century, Edward III, in 1341, in which year an abstract of a deed wherein Richard de Radcliffe conveys to Thurston de Holland, Knt, a parcel of land in Prestwich called Roden.  The aforesaid is now included in Heaton Park which has lately become the property of Manchester Corporation.  The best authorities are agreed that the word comes from Rudynge or Rudying, and signifies in the Anglo-Saxon, a ridding or clearing of trees.”

What this clearing of trees was, of course, is buried in the past, but it is recorded that there was a Roman camp with an agrarian fort in the township about two miles from the main road which lay through Broughton, Kersal, Prestwich, Radcliffe, Cockey Moor, Darwen, terminating in Ribchester.  This camp was on the right hand of Bury Old Road coming from Manchester immediately beyond Singleton Brook and upon the first field in the Parish of Prestwich.  The site today is occupied on Castle Hill by the Jewish Synagogue and the property to its rear.  It is possible that the clearing in the trees may have been for a small hamlet or even in connection with a road to the camp, but this is a matter for conjecture.  Whatever it may have been, we are brought down to Anglo-Saxon and Roman Times, for Julius Agricola, the Roman governor in Britain in the year AD79 was responsible for the road from Manchester to Ribchester.

Again we find the main road running along Heaton Park to the east of our Church and now called Bury Old Road was formerly known as Rooden Lane, along it in 1745 the Jacobite Army is supposed to have marched.  It is obvious then, that the district in which we find our Church goes well back into history.

THE MOTHER CHURCH

It ought therefore to be a matter for thankfulness that we can not only celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of the Consecration of our Church, but that we are able to give thanks to Almighty God for the preservation of the Christian Faith in this locality for well nigh over 676 years.(1964)

This faith with its worship, was of course, carried on through the ages with the focal point in our Mother Church of St.Mary the Virgin, in Prestwich village, the earliest record of which is noted in a subsidy levied by Pope Nicholas IV upon the ecclesiastical benefice in the year AD1288 when the living was then estimated at £18.18. 4. representing an enormously greater sum than it does today.

And so down the ages the Church of St.Mary the Virgin has continued to serve a wide area, through its parochial chapelries as far afield as Great Heaton, Little Heaton, Tonge with Alkrington, Chadderton, Crompton, Royton and Pilkington (which includes the hamlets of Whitefield and Unsworth) and Oldham above town, and Oldham below town; but with the growing populations these places became separate parishes of their own, and the Mother parish gradually diminished in area. The time arrived when the last divisions took place and St.Margaret’s was built in 1852, our own St.Hilda in 1904 and St.Gabriel in 1933.

EDUCATION AND CHURCH LIFE IN ROODEN

The Rev’d J.Hindley writing the short history of St.Hilda’s Parish in 1933, referred to Church life beginning in the parish by a day school founded over 130 years ago.  Investigation shows that the first school-house to be built in Prestwich was built on the site of the old lodge, until recently standing, but now removed from the entrance to Heaton Park.  It was opposite Heaton Park Railway Station.  In those days it was called ‘Church Lodge’ because through that gate, subsequently, Lord Wilton and his family drove to and from Church.

The school-house was, according to the Rev’d W.Nicholls, erected in the year 1753, and carried out a resolution passed at a public meeting of the inhabitants held on the eighth day of the preceding December.  He gives a list of certain contributions as follows:

About 1811, when Heaton Park was enclosed, this building was taken down, being in the way of the line of the wall.  It was transferred to the higher part of Rooden Lane in St.Margaret’s district and became known as Lady Wilton’s School.

On May the 12th 1817, the National School was opened in Prestwich village, and the scholars from Rooden Lane were transferred. The Rooden Lane School having been vacated, the old structure was occupied by thirty girls, wearing pretty uniform and educated at the expense of the Countess of Wilton.  After her decease in 1858 other members of the family supported the school.

INFANT STREET SCHOOL

In 1840 it was considered necessary, owing to the growing district, to provide a school for infants.  This was built just off Whittaker Lane in a street evidently named after the school, for it was called Infant Street.  The Earl of Wilton was its main supporter.  Infant Street contained a good deal of small property which has recently been pulled down to make way for the two blocks of flats known as Rooden Court, and only the northern end remains of the old school still standing.

Some years after its opening it also began to be used as a Reading Room and Working Men’ s Institution, and we find that the building was enlarged by the addition of a further room containing a Bookcase.  On the Bookcase itself the following lettering appears:

And above the Bookcase a board is fastened with the following inscription:

In the year 1869, The Rev’d Thomas G. Davies, was appointed to the curacy of Prestwich, and when he came to reside in Bent Lane he soon observed that the children were almost totally neglected in the matter of Religious instruction except in the Day School.  He at once began to use the Infant Street building for Sunday School purposes and soon had upwards of 60 scholars.  At the end of the year 1870 there were 183 scholars and 23 teachers, and Sunday School was conducted there, growing steadily until 1879 when it was transferred to the Whittaker Lane School.

We learn from old magazines “that Bible Classes were held on Wednesday evenings in the Infant Street School in 1874, that the Christmas party was held on Christmas Eve for the Sunday School children attending the Infant School, Rooden Lane, Canon Birch, the Rector, being in the chair gave an opening address. The children, mostly young, required considerable training for such an occasion, which was willingly given by the Superintendent, Mr.Helsby, who conducted the entertainment.  The children, to the number of 100, enjoyed themselves much.”

During Lent 1875 services were held on Thursday evenings.  On Saturday 12th June, the teachers, supernumary classes, and friends of the Rooden Lane Branch Sunday School, had an excursion to Buxton.  The party, numbering 60, accompanied by the Prestwich Drum and Fife Band, went from Rooden Lane Infants school at 7.30 a.m.

In the issue November 1875, we find, “On Monday evening October 18th, the Annual Concert and Entertainment in connection with the Rooden Lane Working Men’s Library and Reading Room took place.  The President of the Institution, J.Chadwick Esq,, occupied the Chair.  The Earl and Countess of Wilton kindly patronised the entertainment and were present the whole evening.”

The Library and Reading Room was similar to the Mechanics Institution of that day, which played a very important part in the lives of working people.  Many learned to read and write there and made their first acquaintance with the literature of their countrymen.  Many of these institutions have developed into the great Technical Colleges of our day, while others, like Rooden Lane Institution, have continued up to the present as places of social and intellectual recreation.

The Infant Street School played a large part in the social life of the village.  At one time, penny concerts were held there on Saturday evenings; several of the local gentlemen who had businesses in Manchester brought concert parties, formed by their employees, to cater for the enjoyment of the villagers. “These concerts were successful and are often referred to with pleasant recollections by those who attended them.” (written in 1921). 

The Infant Street School was used by what was called ‘Heaton Park Social Club’ and attracted quite a number of the local inhabitants.  Mr.Guilford Preston, who was its Secretary for 43 years said the one hundredth Annual Meeting was held in 1963. The Vicar of the Parish Church of St.Hilda was always the President.

In the year 1870, an Act of Parliament called Forsters Act, was passed.  It was an act by which school boards were to be established in those districts having insufficient school accommodation, and attendance could be made compulsory by the boards.  This may have influenced Lord Wilton in his decision to hand over control of the school in 1871 to the managers of the National Schools which had been rebuilt in 1866, but the school continued to provide for the educational needs of the district until the year 1879, when on account of the lack of accommodation for both Day and Sunday scholars, it was found necessary to build the present school in Whittaker Lane.  Compulsory attendance at school had become law in 1876.

SUNDAY EVENING SERVICES INSTITUTED IN THE DISTRICT

On 17th January 1877, a Young Men’s Mutual Improvement Class was started by the Rev. J.H. Street, a curate who had just come into the district from Padiham, and in February 1877, Sunday Evening Services were instituted in the Infant Street School.  They proved successful and were well attended.  This must, therefore, be regarded as the first real step leading to the formation of the new parish of St.Hilda

WHITTAKER LANE SCHOOL

In April 1877, Canon Birch, the Rector, was anxious to see a new room built for a Sunday School, and in July, “Subscriptions were being asked for a new Schoolroom in Whittaker Lane which may be used for a Mission Service as well as for Infants and Sunday School.”  In the Magazine for April 1878 it says, “We are glad to be able to announce that a new schoolroom is about to be built in Whittaker Lane on a plot of land given by the Rector.”  The spirit of those days was one of progress.  Our predecessors determined on a course of action and followed it enthusiastically until their desired end was attained.

At a meeting held in Prestwich Rectory on Saturday 18th May 1878; present: Messrs. Chadwick, Lord, M’Connel, Buckley, Street, and the Rector – the Building Committee reported that the plans and estimates received from Messrs. Maxwell & Turk, Architects, of Bury, if approved, would involve the expenditure of a total sum of about £1,800, and it was resolved, “That inasmuch as only £900 had been promised, another appeal to the parishioners should be made, with the view of raising the requisite sum.”  The existing school was stated to be altogether inadequate to the wants of the rapidly increasing population.

The Building Committee were: Rev.Canon Birch, Mr.Chancellor Christie, Messrs. J.Chadwick, G.Lord, G.Peel, L.M.Diggle., Otho Hulme, J.W.M’Connel, W.Blackley, R.D.Walker – of whom in 1921, Mr.M’Connel was the only survivor.

On 22nd September 1878, Mr.Bury (later Bishop Bury) of Lincoln College, Oxford, was ordained by the Bishop of Manchester, and became Curate of Prestwich, and came to live on this side of the Parish.

The coming of the Rev.H.Bury marked the beginning of regular divine service in the Whittaker Lane district.  In the same month, the Building Committee gave orders for the work of building to commence forthwith, although the necessary funds had not been promised.  They did all this in the hope that friends of education would rally round and enable the work to be completed in a satisfactory manner.  The Earl of Wilton and Mr.Chadwick had promised a second subscription of £100.  The Contractor was Mr.Barker of Rainsough.

On Saturday 25th February 1879, a concert was given by various friends of the Infant Street School, the object being to purchase the bell for the new school.  Miss Wardle and her scholars took a prominent part in the concert.  The effort realised the sum of £9.

An interesting event which had great influence on the development of the district and of the Parish of St.Hilda, was the opening of the railway.  The immediate effects of this event are mentioned in the Magazine for October 1879.  “The days of Prestwich as a country village are, we fear, numbered.  The new railway, with its tunnel under Lord Wilton’s Park, is now completed between Manchester (Ducie Bridge) and Whitefield, and we have two railway stations in the Parish – Heaton Park at the top of Whittaker Lane, and Prestwich Station at the end of Longfield.”

The railway was first used for the conveyance of troops to the Review in Heaton Park on Saturday 30th August, and it was opened for passenger traffic on Monday 1st September.  “We hear that already 9,000 passengers have been conveyed by it in the course of the last month.”  It is strange what the wheel of time works, for now we hear rumours of its closing, due to its losses created by modern methods of travel in motor cars and buses.

The Whittaker Lane School was eventually opened on Saturday 29th November 1879.  Particulars of the opening ceremony are given in the Parish Magazine for January 1880.  A tea party was given, and so large was the attendance that many had to be refused admittance.  The following ladies each presided at a table and supplied the good things consumed thereat at her own expense:-  Mrs.Birch, Mrs.W.M’Connel, Mrs. Bremner, Mrs.J.Chadwick, Mrs.L.Diggle, Mrs.W.Blackley, Mrs.R.D.Walker, Mrs.G.Hilton, Mrs.Kenyon, Mrs.A.Bailey and Mrs.Wardle.

At the ensuing Musical Evening it was stated by the Chairman, Rev.Canon Birch, that the total cost of the work done was £2,200, of which £1,999 had already been subscribed.  Lady Wilton declared the room to be formally opened.

The new school had been designed for both School purposes and Sunday services, the eastern end being fitted up as a Chancel.  The scholars of the day school, with their School Mistress, Miss Wardle, were transferred from the Infant Street School and the fact was recorded in the April Magazine of 1880.  The Rector granted the use of the old School to the Committee of the Lane Working Men’s Reading Room and Library.  At the opening services in the Whittaker Lane School, 454 coins were given amounting to £6. 3. 0½d.   From 28th December to 28th March, 984 coins were given amounting to £5.12.10½d.   The average number of coins at each service was 70.  The offertories did not meet the current expenses for gas, and in the early days it was necessary to hold concerts in order to provide the funds necessary to meet general expenses.  One such entertainment is recorded in the Magazine of March 1880.  It was a selection from ‘H.M.S. Pinafore’.  The performers were W.Schofield (Captain), J.Wolstenhome (Bosun), Mrs.Rowlands (Buttercup), Mrs.Rivington (Admiral’s daughter), and others.

Another, at which Mr.Bury presided, in the absence of the Rector, and at which he explained the need for raising additional funds for the purpose of carrying on the evening services, was provided by Miss Wilson of Langley House and other friends.  Mr.Senior (Choirmaster), and Mrs.Senior gave a duet.  The Choir contributed several items, their chief piece being the ‘Bridal Chorus’ from Lohengrin.

For some years after the opening of the new schools the local workers endeavoured to consolidate their position.  Much hard work had to be done to organise and equip, in an efficient manner, the Day and Sunday Schools, and to develop to their fullest extent, the newly provided opportunities for extending Church activity.  A very early development was the opening by the Rev.H.Bury and Mr.J.W.M’Connel of a Band of Hope.  Speeches on temperance were given and entertainments provided, and the meetings became an important part of the social life of the village.  A Minute Book of the Band of Hope recording some of its decisions from 15th February 1887 to 19th February 1901 is lodged in the diocesan archives.  The meetings followed much in the same pattern of deciding on Speeches, Lectures and Entertainments but at the first meeting the following appears:

‘Resolved:-  That this Committee receives with great regret the resignation of Mr.J.W.M’Connel, and desires to record its sincere thanks for his past services to the Society.’     Signed W.T.Jones, (Chairman)  Rector.
The previous Minute Book appears to be lost, but the name of J.W.M’Connel is one which constantly arises in the early history of the parish.  The minutes during this period were signed by clergy in charge with the following names Rev.H.S.Fawcett, Rev.W.A.Hayes, Rev.J.R.Pendlebury, Rev.W.J.Battersby, Rev.W. Muirhead Hope.

In the Magazine of July 1881, we read that: “On Trinity Sunday special sermons were preached in the Whittaker Lane School. The collections amounted to £7.14.5d.   Compared with the values of present day money, this must have been in the region of £100 (1964), and gives to us an insight into the sacrificial giving of those days.

It is interesting to read that Missionary Work was carried on rather extensively and the number of worshippers at Whittaker Lane was considerably increased.  In the Whitsuntide procession of 1883, 1,137 children walked with the Prestwich Church Schools, the number from Whittaker Lane being 225.  The appreciation which was shown by Mr.Bury’s services is indicated by the following extract from the August Magazine of 1883: “A pleasing ceremony took place in Whittaker Lane School on Monday 25th June, when the teachers and scholars of the Sunday School presented the Rev.H.Bury a handsome clock and aneroid barometer.  A fortnight later the congregation presented him with an oak secretaire.  The Rector, who presided on each occasion, said how pleased he was to be present at such gatherings and to testify once more to the value of Mr.Bury’s work in Whittaker Lane district.  Other gentlemen made appreciative remarks.  In reply, Mr.Bury said his heart had always been in his work, and that he had derived great assistance from those connected with the school: he would always value the handsome presents given to him, and regard them as a token of the affection and goodwill that had existed for nearly five years between his people and himself.”

Rev. Canon Birch   On 7th June 1884, the Rev.Canon Birch, Rector, resigned the living of Prestwich owing to ill health.  It was a great shock to the district when, on 29th July, only seven weeks after his retirement, the Canon passed away at what was stated to be ‘the comparatively early age of 64 years.’
For half his life he had been Rector, and had devoted his untiring energies to the duties of his large parish.  He was a man of powerful personality and was often seen in the various parts of his extensive parish, travelling about on horseback.  At the age of 28, Canon Birch, who was a man of high academic qualifications, was appointed tutor to Prince Edward of Wales, who afterwards became King Edward VII.  That his services in this capacity were considered eminently satisfactory is shown by the fact that in 1868, the Prince stood sponsor to Albert Edward Henry, only surviving son of Canon Birch, and presented him with a splendidly chased silver goblet.  Born in 1820, Canon Birch received his education at Kings College, Cambridge, and was ordained by the Bishop of Lincoln in 1851.  Prince Edward (afterwards Edward VII) visited him in Prestwich on two or three occasions.  In 1868, he was appointed residential Canon of Ripon, which preferment he held with his Rectory; he was Chaplain in Ordinary to the Queen, Chaplain to the Prince of Wales and Rural Dean. He married Julia, younger daughter and co-heiress of Thomas Drinkwater of Irwell House, Drinkwater Park.  He died at Windsor and was buried in the churchyard at Prestwich.

Rev.W.T.Jones   In June 1884, Lord Wilton offered the benefice to the Rev.W.T. Jones, Rector of St.Nicholas, Guildford, who accepted it and was inducted Rector of Prestwich in the Parish Church on 3rd October.  The coming of the new Rector marked a turning point in the history of the Parish.  Many changes were made, some of which had great influence on this side of the parish.

About this time, Mr.Longworth resigned, after being in charge of Whittaker Lane district for about eleven months, and the Rev.J.H.Kidson took charge of the district.  In June 1885 the Magazine stated, “The Rev. Herbert Bury, who had been Curate of Prestwich since 1878, has accepted the living of St.Peter’s, Stockport.”  Mr.Bury was presented with a banking account of £151 and received many manifestations of the esteem in which he was held.  In the Magazine for January 1886, attention is drawn to this: - “The Chancel of the Whittaker Lane School has, during the last week, been enriched with a simple but effective oak reredos, subscribed for by the congregation and other friends.  Rich curtains hang on either side.  On the retable are a brass cross and vases, the former to the memory of Canon Birch, the latter the gift of a lady friend.  Beautifully worked antpendiums have also been presented to the School.”

On Easter Day 1886, “the chancel rails, pulpit, lectern and reading desk of the Whittaker Lane School were bright with primroses and daffodils, backed with lovely green moss: on the pulpit also was a beautiful cross of roses.”  On Trinity Sunday 1886, Humphrey Landwith Fawcett B.A. of Exeter College, Oxford, was appointed Deacon by the Bishop of Manchester.  The Rector of Prestwich gave him his title. The reverend gentleman came to live at 50 Whittaker Lane and took charge of the district.  He set to work very energetically and, with the assistance of his brother, Mr H. Fawcett, soon produced a great improvement in the musical parts of the religious services, as well as those of the social functions.

In November of the same year, Mr.& Mrs. Senior were presented with a very handsome timepiece by the clergy and the choir on the resignation of Mr. Senior from the position of Choirmaster.  In 2nd January 1887, for the first time, the members of the choir, after robing in the bottom classroom, passed through the middle of the congregation in processional order.  Such were the steps in the progress of Church worship which gladdened the hearts of those enthusiastic workers, who were looking forward to the time when there should be an actual church building in the village, with the full number of Church services.

THE IRON CHURCH

In January 1887, the Rector made an important suggestion, “that a great deal might be done with an iron church.”  He thought that if funds were not forthcoming to buy one, it might be desirable to adopt the more extravagant method of hiring one: but in June Magazine 1887 we find the following extract – “The iron church in Whittaker Lane has been commenced and will be ready for opening in a few weeks.  Only the shell of the building has been provided for, at present, into which the furniture which has been used for the Schoolroom service will be moved.  The Rector will be very glad to hear from any friends who are disposed to make special gifts, or to assist in procuring such articles as are still required.  Among these are the following:  An Altar and Brass Desk, a better Lectern, a Litany Desk, Books, a Bell, more seats, etc.”

These gifts must soon have been forthcoming, and we find the opening services advertised for Wednesday 6th June 1887, and Sunday 10th June.  On Wednesday there was a Celebration of Holy Communion at 5.00 a.m. when there were present 29 communicants. The Rector was the celebrant.  Choral Evensong with special prayers, was sung at 8.00 p.m. when the Rector preached to a fairly numerous congregation.

On Sunday the services were :- Mattins and Sermon at 11.0 a.m., the Rector being the preacher; Holy Communion at 12.15 p.m., a Flower service at 3.30 p.m., when a large number of flowers were offered by the children and an address was given by the Rev.H.Bury.  The congregation proved much too large for the capacities of the building.  In the evening at 6.30 p.m., Evensong was sung and a sermon preached by the Rev.H.Bury, to a crowded congregation.  The alms, amounting during the day to £5. 5. 3d. were given towards the expense of furnishing the Iron Church.

There is a record of the Offertories in the Iron Church for July –
July 6      Wednesday                  Opening Services                      £5.15.11.
July 10    Fifth Sunday after Trinity                                             £5   5. 3.
July 17    Sixth Sunday after Trinity                                                  18.5.
July 24    Seventh Sunday after Trinity                                              18.0.

In the November Magazine of 1887 it was stated that, “the various fittings have been purchased with a view to their being suitable for a Permanent Church in time to come.  They include a beautiful set of Altar Vessels made by the Goldsmiths’ Alliance, Cornhill, London, of the same design as those in use at the Parish Church:
The cost was £26. 5. 0d. of which £21.19. 6d. was raised by Offertories at the Parish Church on Maundy Thursday, and the gifts of one or two friends.”

Although the Vessels are now kept in the church safe, the case in which they were supplied remains in the Vestry.  It has a brass plate attached on the lid and reads, “Whittaker Lane June 1887”.

Further it was stated: “The Loan represents a sum borrowed by the Rector upon his own responsibility, in order that no delay might take place in providing this greatly needed addition to the church accommodation of the parish.  It is hoped that the weekly Offertories will be sufficient to meet the current expenses of the church, and to pay, at least, the interest on the loan.  But there is still a deficit mainly caused by the considerable expense incurred in putting a substantial fence round the whole of the ground which will form the site of the permanent Church.  If any of our readers who are interested in the welfare of the neighbourhood are disposed to help in paying off this deficiency, donations of any amount will be thankfully acknowledged by the Rector.”

Then the following Account appears.

                WHITTAKER LANE IRON CHURCH BUILDING AND
                                 FURNISHING ACCOUNT

The reader will perhaps note the item, “Dressing and repairing old Church Font £4.15. 0.”.  The Rev. J. Hindley who was Curate in charge 1918-1920 and who became the first Vicar states, “the ancient Font which had been in the Parish Church until the year 1854 was renovated and placed in the Iron Church.”

In the December 1887 issue we find that, ”Two Altar Frontals (white & violet), beautifully worked, have been presented to the Iron Church by two parishioners. In response to the appeal made in last month’s magazine for contributions towards the deficiency (£70) on the Iron Church, the Rector has received a sum of £5 from a parishioner who wished to remain anonymous.”

The Iron Church very quickly assumed an important part in the religious life of the district.  In the magazine for January 1888 we read, “A ten days Mission was begun at the Iron Church on Saturday evening, December 3rd, and ended with a service of Thanksgiving and a solemn Te Deum on the evening of Monday 12th December. The Mission was conducted by the Rev. Robert Catterall, who has recently been appointed by the Bishop to the post of Diocesan Missioner.  There were two celebrations of Holy Communion on each of the Sundays, and one on each week day, three times at 5 a.m., and four times at 7 a.m., the whole number of communicants made during the ten days being 231.”

Instructions were given daily at 10.30 a.m., and at 3.0 p.m.  At 8.0 p.m. there was a Special Mission Service, the sermon being followed by an After Meeting and Instruction.  On the Sunday afternoons and on Saturday the 10th, there were special services for men only at 3.30 p.m., and on Sunday the 11th, there was a special service for children at 2.30 p.m.  All these services were well attended; the average congregations in the morning and the afternoon being 30 and 60 respectively.  At the 8.0 p.m. service, the average was over 200, and the last two evenings the little church was densely crowded, many persons being unable to find even standing room.

Great assistance was given by the Choir, who were present at all the evening services during the week and at every Sunday service. The Mission Hymnal, edited by the Rev. E. Husband of Folkstone was used, and all were invited to carry away a copy.  A Mission Card also was provided for all who cared to have it as a memorial.
What may have been the ultimate results is, of course, beyond human power to anticipate, but that an impression was made by the stirring earnest words of the Missioner, and that many listened to them who have long been strangers to the House of God is beyond all doubt, and since the Mission, the Sunday congregations have been much larger.  A new Harmonium to replace an older one was given by the kindness of a few friends in February 1888.

Early in 1888 the Rev. H.S. Fawcett resigned his position and took up a living in Lincolnshire.  He received many presents and tokens of esteem and good wishes.
He was succeeded by the Rev. William Ambrose Hayes, M.A., of Worcester College, but he only remained in Whittaker Lane for about six months when he went as Curate in Charge of St. Peter’s, Accrington.  At the conclusion of the Communicants Class on 22nd November 1888, he was presented by Mr.Wilding with two beautiful coloured stoles of figured silk, white and green.  The Rev. J.R. Pendlebury presided, having been appointed to succeed Mr.Hayes.

In the September Magazine of 1888 we read, “The Flower Service at the Iron Church was held on Sunday August 5th.  Hymns were sung as the children came up in procession and presented their offerings of flowers at the Altar.  Then followed a short bright service and address.  In spite of the unfavourable summer, many of the bunches of flowers were very beautiful.  Four large basketfuls were sent off to Manchester.  The Church was crowded and it was very gratifying to notice the orderliness and reverence of the children.”

In May 1889 we are told that Banns can be published and Marriages solemnized at the Iron Church.  The announcement was made during a period when the Parish Church was closed for repairs and the Iron Church was taking its place, but there does not appear to be any record of any marriage taking place in the Iron Church.

During the year 1890, the Mothers’ Union became a very active organisation. Lady Alice Des Veux, sister of Lord Wilton, and Mrs. Jones, the Rector’s wife, were very active in developing the Union.  Much of the social life of the parish depended in those days largely on the work of the members of the Mothers’ Union, who provided parties of willing workers for any Church or School function.

In 1891 elementary education was made practically free. Most of the schools were still provided voluntarily by religious bodies acting through Managers.  The best English Infant Schools were at the time unrivalled throughout the world.  That the Whittaker Lane School was in the front is evidenced by the Report of H.M. Inspector in May 1891, which, after praising the work both in the Infants Classes and the Mixed School, stated that the greatest possible grant has been earned.  The Magazine, after quoting the report, continues, “The School has become so full that it is necessary to provide some additional buildings if the School accommodation on that side of the Parish is not to become deficient.  There are now ninety-two children in Standards I to IV besides Infants.  H.M. Inspector has consented to the School being carried on in its present form temporarily, but only on the undertaking that more accommodation is provided forthwith.”

ADDITIONAL SCHOOL REQUIRED

The matter of further School accommodation had now become urgent and the Magazine stated, “a plot of land on the Glebe, adjacent to the existing school premises, has been reserved as a site for this purpose.  The contents are 1,488 square yards, representing a gift from the Living of Prestwich of £248.”
The managers (S.M.Diggle Esq., Rev.J.R.Pendlebury and the Rector) hoped to erect a school to hold 164 children. The estimated cost was £1,200.  Donations were immediately promised amounting to £671.10. 0, including three items of £100 each and three of £50.  The Managers issued a very strong appeal to the parishioners and pointed out the danger of neglect in this matter.  Again the rate of progress was very high and we read in the Magazine for July of the same year, “The foundation cornerstone of the new Schools in Whittaker Lane (i.e., the School now occupied by the Juniors and built on the corner of Ogden and Park Street) was laid on Saturday afternoon, 13th June, by Mrs.Moorhouse, wife of the (third) Bishop of the Diocese. The Rector spoke of the development of the School and traced its history emphasizing the work done by the church in providing for the education of the children.  He thought the progress of the school spoke volumes for the energy, skill and tact of Miss Wardle, who had become Head Teacher of the School when it was still in Infant Street; that she had been able to keep abreast of its increasing requirements, and that with boys and girls under her as far advanced as the fourth standard, she had produced such brilliant results at the last inspection.  The Rector also pointed out the advantages that the new School would provide for the Sunday Schools and for the social work.  He also appealed for further subscriptions, the total raised up to the end of the stone-laying ceremony being £830.”

The Silver Trowel used by Mrs. Moorhouse on the occasion is now lodged in the church safe.  It is inscribed as follows: “Presented to Mrs. Moorhouse, on the occasion of her laying the Foundation Stone of the new school, Whittaker Lane, Prestwich, June 13th 1891.”   The Foundation Stone can be seen at the corner of the building inscribed with the following wording ‘To the Glory of God and for the training of the lambs of His flock, this school was built A.D. 1891.” (The lettering has become faint due to weathering).

TOWARDS A PERMANENT CHURCH

In October 1895, The Rev. J.R.Pendlebury left Prestwich and went to “a sphere of very interesting work at the House of Mercy, Clewer, near Windsor.”  Mr.Pendlebury had been in charge of Whittaker Lane district for nearly seven years and was held in the highest esteem throughout the parish.

During November 1895, the Rev.J.W.Battersby, (later Vicar of St.Luke’s, Rochdale) took charge of Whittaker Lane Church. Mr.Battersby displayed great zeal and enthusiasm and infused Church life in Heaton Park with new vitality.  The Church was crowded at the Sunday services and it was necessary to attend early in order to obtain a seat. A feature of this period was the large number of communicants. On Christmas Day 1895, there were 129 and on Easter Day 1896, 135.  Great enthusiasm was shown for missionary work, and many and liberal were the offerings for this purpose.

In the Magazine for January 1896, we read:-
“Whittaker Lane Church – This humble shrine has been rendered worthier of the Sacramental Presence of the Lord by the renewal of some of its fittings.  The Sanctuary hangings and drugget had done duty for over nine years, and it was felt that the time had come when they ought to be replaced.  This was rendered possible by the kind contributions of many of the worshippers at our Altar, assisted by the contributions of one or two outside sympathisers so that on Christmas Day the old tapestry curtains yielded place to a handsome red painted velveteen curtain which gives a warm appearance to the whole church.  A considerable saving in cost was effected by the self-denying labours of seven volunteers who gave up a whole day and a half to the work of making up the material.  The next improvement to which we all looking forward in a spirit of faith is a permanent Church in place of the present iron structure.”

The forecast of a permanent Church contained in the above quotation caused great excitement and discussion. Then, as now and always, there were optimists and pessimists.  Optimism prevailed and there developed a very healthy general desire for the building of a permanent church.

Mr.Toft in writing up ‘Notes on the History of St.Hilda’s’ in 1921-1922 said, “We feel we cannot do justice to the earnest efforts of the worshippers in the Iron Church to provide a more suitable and permanent place of church worship without quoting in full a paragraph from the Magazine for April 1897.”

“A Congregational Tea Party was held on Saturday evening, 27th February in the Schools.  The Rector (Canon Jones) took the chair and about two hundred persons were present.  Having acknowledged the kindness of the ladies who had been good enough to provide trays, the Rector proceeded to reveal the purpose of the gathering.  It was not an ordinary tea party, but a festivity with an object, viz, to see if something could be done toward providing a permanent church for the Whittaker Lane district of the parish.  For ten years the Iron Church had been in existence and had done much to supply the spiritual wants of the population, but admittedly the Iron Church was only a temporary expedient, and the time seemed ripe for organising some scheme toward the providing of a permanent structure.  A banking account had been opened and £115 stood to the credit of the Building Fund.  If they wanted a pattern of earnest devotion in the work of Church building they might emulate the example of King Solomon and strive to procure an edifice worthy of high uses to which it should be put.  The Rector then called on the Priest-in-Charge, the Rev.J.W.Battersby, to say a few words.  He began by answering the possible objections of those who professed astonishment at the suggestion, that a new Church was required.  There were practical reasons, the chief being the necessity of a worthy shrine for the Sacramental Presence of Jesus Christ.

Mr. Wilding proposed the formation of a Committee to consist of the Rector and Priest-in-Charge (ex officio), the Sidesmen, Organist, adult members of the Choir, Messrs. Best, D.Casasola and T.Rivington, with power to add to their number.  Mr. Fawsett seconded the resolution and said, “by hard work a new Church might be secured in ten years.”  Mr.Sylvester, as Sidesman, expressed his hearty approval.  The resolution was carried unanimously.  The Rector said that he had set his heart on seeing a permanent Church in Whittaker Lane.”

As a result of the Party, £14.11. 9. was added to the Building Fund.

Having decided to have a permanent Church, the parishioners commenced to raise the necessary funds.  House to house collections were organised and the collectors were greatly encouraged by the generosity of the people.  Many poor parishioners practised every rigorous self-denial in order that they might contribute to the common effort to speed the coming of the new Church.  In May 1897, the Mothers’ Union was active again.  A Party and Entertainment added another £14.11. 0. to the Building Fund.

On the evening of Low Sunday, the Dean of Manchester (Dean McClure) preached, the collection £6.  2.  6d, being devoted to the Fund.  Many other activities were initiated and several of the reverend gentlemen who had previously had charge of the district, gave much time and energy to the cause.

The year 1897 was Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee year, and a suggestion was made that the erection of a Diamond Jubilee Church at Whittaker Lane would be fitting, but this was dropped and Rooden Lane enthusiasts had to continue their efforts to accumulate the much needed fund.  At the Congregational Party in February 1898, the Rector announced that the Building Fund amounted to £320.  He also stated that negotiations were in progress with Messrs. Payley and Austin for the preparation of the plans of the proposed Church.

Everything possible was done to raise the necessary funds, the Rev. J.W. Battersby directing the activities, the results were very gratifying.  In the Magazine for March 1898, a list of subscriptions given and promised was published, the amount being £1,300.  A footnote pointed out that the Rector was still liable for a loan of £515 incurred in connection with the construction of the Iron Church.  In April 1899, the Mothers’ Union organised another function which raised £111 for the Building Fund.

The Rector of Prestwich, Canon Jones, suffered from continued ill-health, and on New Year’s Day, 1900, his resignation was announced and took immediate effect.  This was a great blow to Prestwich, the Canon was of a very energetic disposition and had infused local Church life with his earnest and progressive spirit.  His loss was very much felt on this side of the parish on account of his great efforts on behalf of the Church.  He had hoped to see the Church completed, but, unfortunately, he did not even see the laying of the foundation stone.  There is no doubt that but for Canon Jones’ progressive policy, the building of a Church in Whittaker Lane would have been very much delayed.

Whittaker Lane suffered a double loss, as the Canon’s retirement was followed by that of the Rev. J.W. Battersby from the position of Priest-in-Charge.  Mr.Battersby often expressed the desire to be the first Priest-in-Charge of the new Church, but his duties took him away from the district to the great regret of the people.  On the 16th January 1900, a largely attended meeting was held in the Whittaker Lane School when he was presented with a beautifully illuminated address and a purse of gold.

The Rev. W.M. Hope succeeded Mr.Battersby in charge of Whittaker Lane.  About 1st February 1900, the Rev. F.W.Cooper, and later Canon Cooper, came into residence as Rector of Prestwich.  He preached his first sermon on Sunday 4th February.  The new Rector of Prestwich was instituted at Manchester on Monday 19th February, and his induction followed in the evening of the same day.  The Archdeacon took the service and preached the sermon.

The parishioners offered a hearty welcome to Mr. and the Hon. Mrs. Cooper, and assured them of the sympathy and loyal support of all in their difficult and important work.  The coming of the new Rector, and the new Priest-in-Charge of Whittaker Lane, brought renewed inspiration and enthusiasm into church life of the district.  The day school continued to flourish and produce creditable results in all examinations.  The maximum grant was always earned and the school was one of the most efficient.

In the Magazine of May 1900, we read of the formation of a Prestwich Church Council, the immediate attention of which was to be directed to the proposed new Church in Whittaker Lane as well as to the renovation of the Parish Church, and the proposal to build a Church Institute, also a proposal to provide a new organ for the Parish Church.  The following shows the immensity of their task:

The sub-committee reported, ”that a first portion of the Church to seat 300 people might be built for £3,600, but the total cost on completion would, in this case, be considerably higher than if the whole were completed at once.”  The activities of the Church Council had splendid results, for in December 1900 we find that the total amount promised for the Church was over £2,300.

In November 1901, we read of the fixing of a Tablet in memory of the late Mr. S.M.Diggles in the centre aisle of the Parish Church.  The tablet was stated to be   “a not unworthy tribute to him whose memory it perpetuates.”  Mr. L.Toft, B.Sc.,  in his “Notes on the History of St.Hilda’s” written in April 1922 says, “Many parishioners will remember with pleasure the great service rendered by Mr.Diggles and his family in this part of the parish.  For many years Miss Diggles and Miss L.Diggles devoted their energies to church and Sunday School work.  Many of the banners which still figure in St.Hilda’s Whitsuntide processions were worked upon by their skilful fingers.  The death of their father led to their leaving the district.  The parishioners showed their appreciation of the service of the ladies by making them suitable presents.  We are indebted to the Misses Diggles for the beautiful Altar which now graces St.Hilda’s.”

At a meeting of the Church Council on 29th October 1901, the Rev. W.M. Hope, produced plans and drawings showing how a portion of the scheme for a proposed new church could be carried on.  The seating accommodation would be about 313.  Estimated cost £3,000 allowing for the remainder to be added later.  The amount available was £2,000.  “It was agreed that an attempt should be made to raise £500, to which the Rector promised £100 conditionally on the rest being raised without a bazaar and that the remaining £500 should remain as a debt on the building.”  The Church Committee were empowered to commence building after obtaining guarantees for the sum required.

The difference between the above amount of £2,000 and the £3,000 stated to have been promised in December 1900, was probably accounted for by the fact that in some cases the money promised was to be contributed in several annual portions, and was therefore not immediately available.  Mr. Toft again comments, “Great as was the difficulty of raising such a large sum of money in those days, we think those enthusiastic people would not have carried out the scheme if they could have known what disastrous times would intervene before the Church could be completed, and what a large increase there would be in the estimated cost of completion.”

In the Magazine for December 1901, we are told that the drawings of the new Church were produced and were well received by the parishioners on the Whittaker Lane side of the parish.  A sum of £600 was still required before building could be commenced and the parishioners at a parochial meeting decided to hold a Sale of Work during the autumn of 1902.  The enthusiasm displayed at this time was indicated by an average attendance of 70 at the Tuesday evening sewing meetings, and over 100 depositors in the money club was started.

In the previous April, a Jumble Sale had realised £37 which was used for the provision of material for working parties. The Sale of Work was opened on Thursday 23rd October 1902 by Lady Alice des Voeux, the Rector, Canon Cooper, occupying the Chair.

On the other two days the openers were the Rev. Herbert Bury, and H.O. Hutchinson Esq., the Chairmen being J.Walkden Esq., and L.A.Orford Esq.
The stallholders were Mrs. Hope, Mrs. Birley, Miss Jones, Mrs. Sylvester, Mrs. Hoyle (High Bank) and the Misses Cottrell (Prestwich Park).  There was a Café presided over by Mrs. Larkham, Mrs. Moscrop Robinson and Mrs. Varcoe.  There was also a wide variety of entertainment and the sum of £460 was raised to the great delight of the parishioners.

In May 1903 tenders were invited for the construction of the new Church.  Some little difficulty was experienced in the selection of a suitable name.  The Rector suggested that the Church should be dedicated to St.Hilda, the famous Abbess of Whitby.  On 29th May, the tender of Messrs. Thompson and Brierley of Bury was accepted and the Architect, Mr. Oakley, of Messrs. Oakley & Sanville, was authorised to draw up the necessary contract.

A PERMANENT CHURCH

The Iron Church had played an important part in the development of Church worship in the district.  It was a far cry from the first modest beginnings of Church worship in a schoolroom to the formation of a separate parish of St.Hilda’s.  The Iron Church saw the birth of the idea of a separate parish and played its part in helping forward the realisation of it.  The impending demolition of the iron building brought sorrow to the minds of Church worshippers.  Many hallowed memories were centred in the structure and many important events in the religious life of the community had taken place within its confines.  Among the preachers in the old Church we find two who were afterwards Bishops (Bishop Bury and Bishop Hicks). Dean Oakley had also preached in the iron building.

The foundation stone of the new Church was laid on Saturday 3rd October 1903, by the Rev. Canon Cleworth, Rector of Middleton and Rural Dean.  The occasion was a very important one and there was a procession of Sunday School scholars, teachers, members of the congregation and friends.  The clergy present included the Rector, (Canon Cooper), the Rev. J.H. Kidson, J.G. Knowles, W.J. Battersby, S.Swinburne, A. Price, C.W.C. Floyd, C.H. White, W. Molineux, and the Priest-in-Charge, the Rev. W.M. Hope.   The collection amounted to £18. 2. 4., a very welcome addition to the Building Fund.

The foundation stone, set in the north east corner of the building and facing Whittaker Lane, was well and truly laid and bears the following inscription:
‘To the Glory of God and in memory of Saint Hilda, “Abbess of Whitby”, famous among the Master Builders of the Catholic Church in this land.  The Foundation Stone of this Church dedicated in her name, was laid on the Third Day of October ANNO DOMINI 1903.’    The silver trowel used upon this occasion was presented to Canon Cleworth and after his decease was returned by his relatives.  It is inscribed: “Presented to The Rev. Canon Cleworth at the laying of the Foundation Stone of St.Hilda’s Church, Whittaker Lane, 3rd October 1903.”  The leather case in which it rests came from an old standing firm of the name Lloyd Payne and Amiel, Wholesale Jewellers, Manchester.

In the Magazine for December 1903 we read, “In spite of the exceptionally bad weather and an occasional wait for material, the outer walls of the new Church have nearly arrived at their full height.  It is sad to see the patch of inside brick at the east end where the morning chapel should be, the blank space on the side of the conveniently arranged vestries, and the unlovely west wall.  With another £2,000 the Church could have been built complete, and could still be. With £350 more, either the morning chapel or the vestries could be put in hand.”

As the amount of Church Building which was possible was nearing completion, the parishioners began to concern themselves about providing the necessary furniture.  The Diggles’ family presented the beautiful oak altar. Mr. & Mrs. Hoyle of High Bank, presented the pulpit and the lectern, and about 80 persons each subscribed the price of purchasing a chair.  Other gifts included hangings for the altar, hymn books and prayer books for the choir by Mr. Moscrop Robinson, an altar book by Miss Jones, a prayer book for the priest’s desk by Mr.White (Rhodesia), and a bible for the lectern by Mr. Wilding and family.  The altar rails were given by the vicar, (Rev. J.H. Kidson) and the wardens of the sister church of St.Margaret’s.  The grounds were laid out by the male members of the congregation under the supervision of the Priest-in-Charge, the Wardens and Mr.J.Sylvester.

Attached to the North side of the Pulpit is a brass plaque with the following inscription:
“To the Glory of God.  This Pulpit was placed in the Church of St.Hilda, Prestwich by Richard Hoyle Esq. of High Bank, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and Four.”

The Lectern bears the following inscription:
“To the Glory of God.  This Lectern was given for use in the Church of St.Hilda, Prestwich , by Ada Mary Rostron Hoyle, wife of Richard Hoyle Esq. of High Bank, in the year of our Lord, Nineteen Hundred and Four.”

N.B. “High Bank House” in Scholes Lane, has since been renamed “Nazareth House” when taken over by the Roman Catholic Community.

It was originally intended that the Consecration should take place in July 1904, but the ceremony had to be postponed until 18th October 1904.  When this date arrived the main portion of the building, the Sanctuary, Chancel, and the greater part of the Nave excluding the last arch, Vestries, Baptistry, Porches and Bell Turret, was consecrated by he Rt.Rev. Edmund Arbuthnott Knox D.D., fourth Bishop of Manchester.

The order of Service was:
8.00 a.m. Consecration Service with Holy Communion and address by the Bishop.
8.00 p.m. Evensong with Sermon by Bishop Thornton.

Services were held during the following week, the special preachers including Rev. W.J. Battersby, then Vicar of St.Luke’s, Rochdale, the Venerable Archdeacon Wilson, and Canon Cleworth of Middleton.

After the opening ceremony it was found that there was a debt on the Church of £500.

Again Mr.Toft commented: ”From the beginning the system of voluntary Church Cleaners was introduced.  As soon as the workmen finished, the ladies armed with their household cleaning utensils, set to work and very soon had the interior wearing that clean and bright appearance which it has worn ever since, and which is noticed by all who visit the Church.  No Church could be better served than is St.Hilda’s in this respect, and the self-sacrificing services of the voluntary Church Cleaners are worthy of the highest commendation.” 

The effort to remove the debt on the Church building was strenuously continued.  One effort took the form of “Tableaux of the Martyrdom of St.Dorothea”, under the supervision of Miss Birley, and resulted in the raising of £11.  A Jumble Sale realised £15

In the Magazine for March 1905, it states: “A gift of a new Litany Book for the Church, beautifully bound, has been received from the family of the late Mr.Lockett, in his memory and is now in use.”

The first Vestry meeting was held on May 2nd 1905; the Priest-in-Charge, Rev.W.M.Hope, being in the Chair. The Rector of Prestwich nominated Mr. A. Sylvester as his first Warden, and the Rector, who also had the legal right to nominate the Peoples’ Warden, had directed that he should be chosen by the Vestry – the choice fell on Mr. D. Casasola.   The first Sidesmen to be appointed were Messrs. T.Rivington, White, Broadey, H.Hilton, Stocks and Brownhill.  Nr.C.Wilding kindle undertook the post of Vestry Clerk.  The Parish Council representatives chosen were: Messrs. Casasola, Wilding and Broadey.

In the Magazine of February 1906 it records The Annual Meeting of the Men’s Institute as being held on the 11th January, when it was stated it had been a memorable year. “No less than £350 has been spent in enlarging the premises and providing for the better accommodation and enjoyment of the members.  A little less than £100 of this remains as a debt on the Institute, in the form of bonds held by various members.  We trust soon to have these reduced.”

At a meeting of the Church Council on July 11th, the Rector made a statement with regard to a proposed joint Bazaar to clear off the debts on the Infant School, the Church Institute and the Church of St.Hilda’s, and to provide an organ for the Church.  On Monday 5th February 1906, a meeting was held to organise workers and to make preliminary arrangements for the projected Bazaar to be held in 1907.

The Bazaar was held on April 9th, 10th, 11th and 13th 1907 and proved a huge success, the nett receipts being £2,153.16. 6d.  As this was the third Bazaar in four and a half years, the result was very gratifying, and indicates the wonderful energy as well as the generosity of the parishioners.

The amount raised was divided as follows:

A note in the May Magazine says, “ from the point of view of our own district (St.Hilda’s) we must be very thankful that after six years of almost uninterrupted bazaaring we still have energy enough to do as well as we did,  And as to the result – first and foremost it frees the Church debt.  Then there will be no difficulty about getting an organ.  We had vaguely settled about £400 as the price, with the idea of so arranging the structure of the instrument as to allow of its increase when funds permit.

The amount received from the Bazaar towards the Organ Fund was £380. 2.  3d. Further subscriptions for another £25 was requested for emergencies and possible extras to avoid debt.

Mr.A.Slater of Radcliffe was given the order for the two-manual organ at a cost of £400.  It was duly installed, and in June 1908, the Rector dedicated it on the Sunday after Ascension Day at Matins.  In his address he spoke of the place music should take in divine worship and mentioned, incidentally, that the extension of the Church would be taken in hand immediately.  The size of the congregation, both morning and evening, showed that further accommodation was required.

On Wednesday 3rd June 1908, Organ Recitals were given by Mr. E.A. Sanford, the Organist of Prestbury Parish Church, and by Mr. L. H. Keay on the following Sunday. The Organ Committee asked Mr. Keay to examine the organ and report on the same.  In his report he said,”I consider the organ satisfactory in every respect – well constructed, artistically finished, and all stops of good finish and excellent tone.  I congratulate the Church authorities on the possession of so fine an instrument.” The organ was originally blown by hand, but has since been converted and is now electrically operated, the motor etc. being a gift of Miss G. Haslock, a former headmistress of the Infant School, and who passed to her rest in April 1951.
The organ has rendered excellent service under several organists, among whom we can name: Mr.S.W.Hartley, Mr.G.H.Johnson, Mr.L.Latchford, and Miss L.Beetham. Mr.H.Launce Wood was appointed organist from 1st January 1939 and is still in post. (1964)

In June 1958 the organ was dismantled and cleaned by Messrs. Rushworth and Draper of Liverpool at a cost of £486.

In June 1907, Mr.Hope was offered, and accepted, the living of Shaw.  The parishioners heard the news with great regret although they realised that Mr.Hope was worthy of preferment and hearty congratulations were showered upon him.  Mr.Hope had won his way into the affections of the people.  His enthusiastic spirit and his unsparing labours had worked wonders in the district and had been responsible for a great deal of progress which had been made.  Mrs.Hope received a clock as a parting gift from the Mothers’ Union. 

Mr.Hope was succeeded by Rev.C.H.Roe, who had previously served as Vicar of a Parish in New Zealand, and as assistant Curate from 1900 to 1903 at Christ Church, Oldham. At the Parochial Tea Party in October 1907, Mr.Hope was presented with an Illuminated Address and a purse of gold, and Mr. Mr. Roe was introduced to the assembled parishioners

A note in the Magazine for December 1907 stated that Rev.M.S.Fawcett, former Priest-in-Charge, passed to his rest on 7th November 1907, aged 46.

At this period, Sunday afternoon meetings for men were held annually at the Parish Church, St.Margaret’s and St.Hilda’s.  At St.Hilda’s a branch of the Church of England Men’s Society (which was a flourishing concern in those days), was formed, and on Sunday 22nd December 1907, sixty members were admitted at a special service.  Mr.Wilding was elected as Chairman and Mr.J.T.Rivington as Hon.Secretary.

The Day School Prizes were distributed on Friday afternoon, February 21st 1908.  Mrs. Anderson of 2 Gardenhurst”, Sedgley Park Road, and who later gave the Reredos, very kindly made the presentation, and was supported by a number of parents.  It was announced that it was the intention of Mr.Newton and Miss Wardle to give a Children’s Concert at this annual event next year.

The Rev.C.E.Gaul inspected the Whittaker Lane Day Schools on April 13th 1908.  The following is his report on the two departments:
“The Infants are in excellent order, and they are very carefully and sympathetically taught.  The work of both groups is very well done.  The children are well taught and very good results are obtained.  All three groups answer nicely, and their written work is very well done.”