William Ellis Goldthorp was born in Glossop on 16th October 1860 to parents Benjamin Goldthorp and Mary, nee Rollinson. His Father was a Founder Member of the Glossop Dale New Industrial Co-operative Society, established in 1867.
William started work for the Co-operative Society in 1872 at just 12 years old, being engaged as a temporary boy with a wage of 4 shillings per week (20 new pence). Long hours were worked but William was not daunted and quickly earned himself, even as a youth, a reputation for reliability and honesty. In 1882 he was promoted to Branch Manager of the new second store, next to the Junction Inn, High Street West. Five years later in 1887, after successfully running this branch, he was asked to re-organise and manage the Main Store in Norfolk Square, and twelve years later, in 1898, he was promoted to the post of Grocery Manager & Buyer. In 1909, whilst still in his forties he was appointed to the highest rank in the Co-operative Movement, that of General Manager. |
The photo above, taken in 1921, shows William Ellis Goldthorp, his wife and 18 year old son Fred outside his house in Lord Street. Later the same day Fred left Glossop for Quebec, the journey took 7 days.
When he had completed 50 years service he was presented, at the Victoria Hall, with a beautiful illuminated address by Mr W Leatherbarrow, the President of the Society William Ellis Goldthorp retired in 1927 after 55 years service, being both a faithful and conscientious employee of the Glossop Dale New Industrial Co-operative Society Limited. He waived his right to a pension but requested that the money should be used to form a convalescent fund for needy members of the Society. Therefore “The W. E. Goldthorp Convalescence Fund” was formed to commemorate his services. The object of the fund was to pay for the facilities at the Convalescent Homes of the Co-operative Union Ltd for members, members’ wives and children of 18 years of age and over and still living at home. Information supplied to Lynda Meehan by Mr Goldthorp's grandson, Mr William Oates Goldthorp MB.,CHB.,D.Obst.,FRCOG |