Late Victorian Burley Four

There was particular need for more education facilities. The original Church school, although extended in 1862, quickly became inadequate. In 1888 it became the girls' department, with the extension across the road - the current school - becoming the boys' department and a parish room for the church. The new building was financed by public subscription of £3,000, and was faced with Horsforth Stone. In 1891 it had 691 pupils: all of whom had to pay fees ranging from 2d. (two old pence) for infants to 4d. for the oldest children, with reductions for large families.

Beneath the rapid economic growth that prompted these developments lay grinding poverty for many. Soup kitchens during or after bad winters were not uncommon. In July 1891 a boot and shoe club was established for day school children 'for the provision for the purchase of strong, warm boots for winter wear for the children'.

from Burley Parish Magazine of the 1890's

Winter help for the poor.

We have had one of the most trying winters for invalids and poor that the oldest amongst us can remember; the consequence has been, that for months past demands have been made upon the offertory far in excess of what has been collected in church, and when the terrible snowstorm of March came, it was at once evident that those employed out of doors would be thrown out of work, and that there would be many besides those already known to us who would need assistance. Some kind and thoughtful friends communicated with the Vicar, and the result was that a Soup Kitchen was opened in Willow Place... The soup was made and distributed each day by ladies in the parish, and 167 different families were assisted, and as these represent over 800 individuals, we have the satisfaction of knowing that all through the heavy weather these were each provided with at least one substantial meal a day.

Next: Late Victorian Burley Five
Back: Late Victorian Burley Three
Up to Early Burley