1888
Singers F.C. held meetings on a monthly basis which were open to the general public. They were usually held at the Cricketers Arms public house in Far Gosford Street, Hillfields. The first reported meeting of this type in the local press (The Reporter Saturday 25/8/1888) took place on Tuesday 21 August 1888. William Smith presided. He confirmed permission to use Nursery Field (Stoke Road Ground) at the back of the White Lion Hotel had been received from Joshua Perkins junior, a lace manufacturer based at Britannia Mills, 45 Paynes Lane, Hillfields. Smith also confirmed the club had 26 honorary members and 28 players. A process was in motion to form a Reserve Team. He also confirmed ladies could watch matches free of charge and the minimum entrance fee for paying customers would be twopence (less than 1p in today’s money).
James George Morgan (secretary) had attended a meeting in Birmingham which sanctioned the formation of the Warwickshire Football Association. The Vocalists did not enter the Warwick County Cup competition due to already registering to play in the Birmingham & District Junior Cup. Extract from The Reporter (25/8/1888): The ground will be properly railed off so that the spectators will have a good opportunity of witnessing the game. The first important match is with Mitchell Saint George’s F.C. on October 6th. Success to Singers and may they reap the reward they deserve. The Vocalists lost that game 2-1. Harry Banks scored for Singers. The first event to be described as an Annual General Meeting (exact date unknown) was held in late August. From this point onwards the AGM’s were reported in the local press.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: WHITE LION HOTEL AUGUST 1888 (exact date unknown)
James Morgan (secretary) confirmed the club had acquired membership of the Warwickshire Football Association, having attended their inaugural meeting at the Nock’s Hotel, Birmingham on 28 August. Singers F.C’s Balance Sheet showed a surplus of £4, 15 shillings & sevenpence. This was deposited in the Coventry Economic Building Society. The following officials were elected:
President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – James Stringer, Thomas Macklin, William Macklin, Richard Henry Lea, Secretary – James George Morgan, Reporting Secretary – George Arthur Maley, J. Biggs. Management Committee – Charles Portlock, Joseph Charles Collins, George Arthur Maley, Henry David Cummings, William Smith, A. Bayley & T. A. Smith.
GEORGE SINGER (PRESIDENT)
George Singer was born in Stinsford, Kingston, Dorset on 26 January 1847. He came to Coventry in 1869 having secured employment as a mechanical engineer at the Coventry Machinist Company. George had previously completed his apprenticeship at John Penn & Sons of Lewisham, a marine engineering business. For five years he worked closely with James Starley, who was a foreman at CMC and had the distinction of being one of Britain’s earliest bicycle designers. George married Eliza Ann Stringer on 15 January 1873 at Vical Lane Chapel, Coventry. He held a managerial position at the firm of Charles D. Roberts based at 9-14 Alma Street, Hillfields, before commencing his own business in 1875. Singer & Company was formed with £300 capital and based at 48 Leicester Street, near the city centre. The following year the company acquired the premises previously owned by Charles D. Roberts. In the early 1880’s there were approximately 5,000 workers employed in the bicycle industry. Singer’s products were of high quality and increased demand necessitated increased production. Construction of a bigger factory located in Canterbury Street commenced in August 1890 and was completed in July 1891. Singer & Company was registered as a limited liability company in November 1894 and was floated on the Stock Exchange in June 1896. George Singer retired in October 1899. By the turn of the century there was a serious decline in the bicycle trade. The company diversified its product range by manufacturing motorcycles and eventually motor cars.
George Singer had a phenomenal local political career as a member of the Liberal Party. He was a well-known philanthropist who earned great respect from his employees and the general public. He passionately believed in employee recreation, adequately expressed by his support for the Singers football, cycling, rugby union and athletic clubs formed by the workers. He served as a councillor for Spon Street Ward (1881) and Gosford Street Ward (1886 & 1889). He was elected a Justice of the Peace in 1892 and Lord Mayor (1891-1893).
George died aged 61 on 4 January 1909. His funeral took place at Coventry Cemetery, London Road, three days later. Several city centre shops closed as a mark of respect and displayed “mourning boards”. Hundreds of people lined the streets leading to the cemetery. The eight coffin bearers were all Singers employees, which included two former footballers, Joseph Collins and Herbert Turner.
JAMES CHARLES STRINGER (VICE PRESIDENT)
James Charles Stringer was born in Paradise Street, Coventry on 19 February 1863. He was the brother-in-law of George Singer. He became Singer’s business partner circa 1883. James married Alice Richardson at Vicar Lane Chapel, Coventry on 21 July 1886. His father, also named James, owned a ribbon manufacturing business in Swanswell Place, Hillfields. When the ribbon trade declined in Coventry the company commenced manufacturing bicycles. James junior resided at “Parkhill”, Kenilworth and spent many recreational hours fishing and shooting. He was President of the Kenilworth Convalescent Home Football Challenge Cup competition and purchased the trophy. He was greatly respected for his charity work. James left the Singer Company in 1896 but returned in 1903, serving on the Board for another five years. He had a long association with the military volunteer movement in Coventry. Upon his retirement he was appointed Major of the 7th Battalion Royal Warwickshire Regiment. In June 1915 he travelled to Marlow, Buckinghamshire to spend the summer months relaxing by the Thames River. He suddenly took ill on 20 October.
James died aged 52 on 1 November at his residence “Woodside” situated at Quarry Woods, Cookham. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery, close to the grave of George Singer.
THOMAS MACKLIN (VICE PRESIDENT)
Thomas Macklin was born in Stoke Prior, Worcestershire in 1838. He married Eliza Rowley in East Ashford, Kent in 1857. The 1861 Census confirms he resided in Cheshunt. He was 22 years old and employed as an engineer/machinist. He moved to Coventry in the late 1860’s having sourced employment at the Coventry Sewing Machine Company, which later diversified into manufacturing bicycles. The 1891 Coventry Census states he lived at 1 Grenville Terrace, Chester Street, Spon End and held a managerial position at a bicycle works, this being the Singer Company situated in Canterbury Street, Hillfields. At some point he formed his own bicycle manufacturing company, Thomas Macklin & Sons based in Bow Mills, Gosford Street. These premises were previously occupied by the Coventry Mercury Cycle Company. His son, William Macklin, assisted in the business. There was a serious fire at the factory on 10 October 1898. The alarm was raised by W.H. Perkins of Primrose Hill Street. The Dunlop Fire Brigade was advised at 9.50pm regarding the fire at the two-storey building. They were supported by the Coventry Volunteer Fire Brigade. The two fire engines drew water from the River Sherbourne and extinguished the fierce blaze within two hours. The inside of the building was completely gutted with only the walls left standing. Stock in the upper section and machinery at ground floor level were destroyed, which included approximately 70 bicycles. What caused the fire remains a mystery. Damages were estimated at over £2,000.
Thomas Macklin died aged 61 in Coventry on 30 September 1899.
WILLIAM MACKLIN (VICE PRESIDENT)
William Macklin was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1829. He married Anne Levitt (place & date unknown) who was born in Tottenham, Middlesex in 1839. The 1881 Coventry Census confirms he resided at 4 Leigh Street, Hillfields, and was employed as an engine fitter. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 44 Canterbury Street, Hillfields and worked as a bicycle machinist.
William died aged 72 in Coventry in 1901. At the time of his death he resided at 3 Catherine Street, Hillfields.
RICHARD HENRY LEA (VICE PRESIDENT)
Richard was born in Lutterworth, Leicestershire on 23 February 1858. He was educated at Manchester Grammar School and joined the Singer Company in 1878. He married Alice Gertrude Flinn in Coventry in 1885 and in the same year was appointed to a managerial position at the Singer Works. He was a keen cyclist for many years. He was known to have cycled on a “Penny Farthing” to Manchester and back to Coventry to visit his mother. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he resided at Stoke Green. From 1892 onwards he was a member of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers. He also took a great interest in the development of the Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital. He left the Singer Company in 1895 to form Lea Francis Limited in partnership with Graham Inglesby Francis. The company, based in Day’s Lane, Hillfields, initially produced high quality bicycles. In 1896 the business relocated to new premises in Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. Richard was renowned for two important inventions, the Leaf Pedal and the Lea Reflex Light. The company built motor cars in 1903 under licence from the Singer Company and from 1909 to 1924, manufactured motorcycles. After the First World War had ended Lea Francis motor cars gained a reputation of being fast and reliable. Famous racing drivers such as Kaye Don and George Eyston competed in Lea Francis models. Richard retired in 1922 due to ill-health.
He died aged 81 in Coventry on 15 January 1940. His funeral was held at Warwick Road Congregational Church four days later. Richard was interred at Coventry Cemetery, London Road and previously lived at 11 Prince of Wales Road, Chapelfields.
JAMES GEORGE MORGAN (SECRETARY)
James was born in Brierley Hill, Dudley on 11 September 1858. He married Emma Jane Girling at the Wesley Chapel, Smethwick, Birmingham on 11 September 1881, on the day of his 23rd birthday. He came to Coventry shortly afterwards and resided at Ryton Cottages situated in Paynes Lane, Hillfields. The Morgan family moved to 11 Canterbury Street, Hilfields in 1888. This was a tobacconist’s shop which had living accommodation. Emma must have run the shop as James was employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Works based in Alma Street, Hillfields. Morgan replaced Harry Hathaway as secretary, who had already arranged Singers’ fixture list for the 1888-89 season. James used to display the club’s team list for forthcoming games in the shop window, which attracted an enthusiastic crowd of local youngsters. He was associated with the Hospital Saturday Fund and Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital from 1888 to 1932. He was deacon of Well Street Church from 1911 to 1925. By 1901 James had secured a managerial position at the Singer factory. His last employment before retirement was as a clerk at the Coventry Chain Company (later became Renold Chain). James transformed Singers F.C. from an enthusiastic works team to one of the best junior clubs in the Midlands. He was elected to the Executive Committee of the Birmingham & District Football Association in 1891. The following year he became the first chairman of the Midland Daily Telegraph Football Challenge Cup Association when that organisation was formed. Morgan vacated his secretarial position in January 1893 and was replaced by Edwin Kirk.
James died aged 76 at his residence, 37 Oldfield Road, Chapelfields, on 24 May 1935. His funeral was held at Well Street Congregational Church four days later, followed by interment at Coventry Cemetery. Among the mourners that day were Arthur Randle and Henry Ainsworth Jackson, who both had connections to the Coventry City Supporters Club.
GEORGE ARTHUR MALEY (COMMITTEE)
George was born in Duke Street, Birmingham on 4 July 1862. He came to Coventry circa 1888 to work in the bicycle trade. At the same time he acquired part-time employment as a football correspondent for the Coventry Reporter newspaper. He wrote under the nom-de-plume “Dribbler”. He joined the newly launched Midland Daily Telegraph in February 1891. It was through his eyes and his pen much of Singers Football Club’s early history was recorded. He wrote many match reports and articles which have provided a rich source of information. He championed the advancement of football in the city and was also a strong early advocate for the name change to Coventry City F.C. George was an accomplished baritone singer often performing at Smoking Concerts, Dinners and AGM’s held by Singers F.C. He was a member of the Coventry Amateur Operatic Society and performed at the Corn Exchange (Hertford Street) and the Royal Opera House (Hales Street). He was also a member of the Cycle & Iron Trades Self-Help Society. George was elected captain of the Excelsior Cricket Club in 1890. He was also a vice-president of Alliance Football Club. He served on the Midland Daily Telegraph Cup Executive until 1897. George married Ellen Marion Brown at Saint Michael’s Parish Church, Coventry on 31 July 1897. At the time of his marriage he was employed as a mechanic. He later became the licensee of the Waterloo Bar situated in Pepper Lane. He eventually left the pub trade and moved to Rugby, having secured work as an mechanic in the testing department at the British Thomson Houston Works. The 1921 Census confirms he resided at 35 Windsor Street, Rugby and was employed as a traction motor fitter. George died aged 70 at 20 Lower Hillmorton Road, Rugby on 23 November 1932. His funeral and interment was held at Rugby Cemetery five days later.
J. BIGGS (TREASURER)
Possibly: John Biggs born circa 1835 in Longford, Warwickshire. He married Ann Elizabeth Stringer in Coventry in 1868. He died aged 64 in Coventry on 5 April 1900. At the time of his death he was employed as a Timekeeper Manager and resided at 60 Yardley Street, Hillfields. The 1891 Coventry Census states he was a widower aged 55 and lived at 4 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. In his will Biggs left part of his estate to Rochester Illingworth, who was Managing Director of the Leigh Mills Company Limited. They had premises situated in Paynes Lane, Hillfields. John may have been employed at this company.
Possibly: John William Biggs born in Leicester on 20 May 1861. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was aged 29 and was employed as a toolmaker in the bicycle industry. He lived at 53 Perkins Street, Hillfields. John married Eliza Ann Dawson in Coventry on 5 December 1886. The 1901 Coventry Census lists him as being a licensed victualler residing at the Clarendon Inn, Warwick Road, Kenilworth. He had an extensive career as a publican in Coventry, managing the Rising Sun Inn, Spon Street and the Horse & Jockey, Much Park Street. John died aged 78 in Coventry on 1 June 1939.
CHARLES PORTLOCK (MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE)
Charles was born in Birmingham in 1851. He married Jane Mantle at Saint Mary’s Church, Aston Brook, Warwickshire on 15 September 1878. The 1881 Coventry Census confirms he was aged 29, a bicycle fitter who resided at 17 Saint Agnes Lane. The 1891 & 1901 Coventry Census list him as living at 5 Day’s Lane, Hillfields with the same occupation. By 1911 he had moved to 16 Sparkbrook Street, Hillfields. Charles died aged 69 In Coventry in 1921. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 30 May. At the time of his death he resided in Vauxhall Street, Hillfields.
JOSEPH CHARLES COLLINS (MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE)
Joseph was born in Lyndon, West Bromwich on 25 September 1867. He came to Coventry in 1882 having secured employment as a bicycle machinist. He initially played for Coventry Association F.C. before they disbanded for a short time. Joe played for Singers F.C. in their inaugural season 1883-84, later becoming captain. He served the club with distinction for many years but his playing career was tragically cut short with an horrific accident on the pitch. He sustained a life-threatening spinal injury during the Birmingham Junior Cup Third Round Replay against Small Heath Reserves. The game was played at the Muntz Street Ground, Birmingham on 22 February 1890 and ended in a 2-2 draw. The match was only in progress for a few minutes when Collins collided with Bushill as he attempted to tackle him. Bushill landed heavily on Collins who was taken to Queens Hospital unconscious and paralysed. He was later diagnosed with concussion of the spine. Apparently his well-developed upper muscles prevented him from suffering a broken neck. He left the hospital a few days later but his playing career was effectively over. Joe married Annie Sadler at the Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Warwick Lane, Coventry on Christmas Day 1890. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms they resided at 16 Hood Street, Hillfields. He replaced Edwin Kirk as secretary of Singers F.C. having been appointed at the AGM held at the White Lion Hotel on 11 July 1893. By 1894 the Collins family had moved to 48 Highfield Road, Hillfields, staying there until the turn of the century. Joe was a keen cyclist and a very accomplished pencil artist. In 1909 he was a coffin bearer at George Singer’s funeral. The Collins family relocated to Guildford, Surrey after Joe had obtained employment as a lighterman working on the River Thames. This involved the transferring of goods via barges (known locally as lighters) between ships and quays. Joe later moved to Sharnford, Leicestershire to live with his son. His last employment before retirement was as an engineer’s examiner. He died aged 89 at the Sundial Nursing Home, Leicester on 21 December 1956.
T.A. SMITH (MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE)
Possibly: Thomas Smith who was born circa 1830 in Coventry. He married Sarah Eliza Ellis in Coventry in 1854. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at 26 Paynes Lane, Hillfields. In 1891 he was living at 78 Canterbury Street, Hillfields. He was aged 60 and employed as a bicycle turner/machinist. No other information is known.
HENRY DAVID CUMMINGS (MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE)
Henry was born in Birmingham on 6 November 1860. He married Amy Eliza Stevens at Saint Anne’s Church, Aston, Birmingham on 11 December 1880. The 1881 Aston Census states he resided at 16 Alma Crescent, Duddeston. He was 21 years old and was an unemployed carriage fitter. In 1891 he lived at 1 Charles Street, Coventry and worked as a bicycle machinist. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates he was employed as a tool shop turner and resided at 119 Cambridge Street, Hillfields. Ten years later he was working in the motor car industry having the same occupation. He lived at 32 Sir Thomas Whites Road, Chapelfields, where he stayed until he died aged 81 on 1 June 1942. His funeral was held at Westwood Church three days later.
WILLIAM SMITH (MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE)
William was born in Coventry circa 1827. His first marriage was to Eliza Painter at Saint Michael’s Parish Church, Coventry on 17 June 1849. After the death of his first wife, he married Emma Ward at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on 25 September 1859. The 1881 Coventry Census states the Smith family lived at 35 Canterbury Street, Hillfields. William, aged 53 ,was employed as a ribbon weaver and general provision dealer, part of the house functioning as a shop. William appeared on the first Singers F.C. team group photograph taken during the 1885-86 season. He acted as umpire (linesman) for the club. He died aged 73 at 88 Vine
Street, Hillfields, his son’s residence, on 5 January 1901.
1889
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AT THE WHITE LION HOTEL, GOSFORD GREEN ON 18 JULY
George Singer chaired the meeting. Some of those present looked through the windows of the room they occupied. They saw cricketers playing on Gosford Green in the process of finalising their match in twilight conditions. James Morgan gave his financial report which indicated the club had a turnover of £77, 5 shillings & threepence. Subscriptions by supporters amounted to £14, 8 shillings & sixpence. Gate receipts for thirteen home games totalled £40, 1 shilling & eightpence. Expenses included a payment of £12, 5 shillings & sixpence to visiting teams and £14, 15 shillings & sevenpence for costs, for example relating to printing, players refreshments and groundsman wages. Travelling costs for away matches resulted in a net loss of £5, 19 shillings & eightpence.
The Balance Sheet showed a surplus of £10, 9 shillings & tenpence of which £10 was invested in the (Coventry) Economic Building Society. Between 6,000 and 7,000 supporters paid admission money. The total attendance figure for the 1888-89 season was approximately 12,000. Singers F.C. played 22 matches of which 12 were won, six lost and four drawn. They scored 60 goals and conceded 28. The following officers were elected: President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – James Stringer, Walter Hewitt, Richard H. Lea, Thomas Macklin and William Macklin. Treasurer – J. Biggs. Committee – Francis Moseley, Henry D. Cummings, William Macklin junior, F. Mense, George A. Maley, T. Brislin and S. Pearson. Secretary – James Morgan, Assistant Secretary – Francis Moseley and Reporting Secretary – George A. Maley. The meeting closed with the following comment from George Singer: “If I thought my presence would be conducive to the better play of the team, I would certainly endeavor to see them play more often. I believe in athletic pastimes and enter into them myself, but not football, I do not think I will commence”.
NEW OFFICIALS
WALTER HEWITT (VICE PRESIDENT)
Walter was born in Stoke Village, Warwickshire in 1850. He served his apprenticeship at Maycocks Drapers in Earl Street before joining the Coventry Machinist Company. He was appointed to a managerial position at the Singer Company in February 1881. The 1881 Carlisle Census lists him as a boarder at the Northern Temperance Hotel and was employed as a bicycle salesman. On 2 August that same year he married Sarah Clarke in Coventry at Holy Trinity Church. The 1891 Coventry Census lists the Hewitt family as living at 6 White Street, Gosford. Walter continued to travel the country as a commercial salesman. His expertise in this field led to regular requests for his advice from other bicycle agents. Sadly, Sarah Hewitt died in 1892. Walter’s second marriage was to Laura Rebecca Slack in 1893 at Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. He was initiated as a member of the Coventry Trinity Lodge Freemason’s on 3 January 1895. The following year he was appointed General Manager of the Singer Company and became Managing Director in 1899. The 1901 Coventry Census states he resided at “Westfield” Earlsdon Lane. Walter chaired the First Annual Dinner of the newly formed Singers Cricket Club, held at the Crown Hotel in March 1907. During his speech he commented: “I have been present at many dinners, but there is none I enjoy better than being among the Singer employees. I have been associated with Singer employees for 26 years and never regretted their company”. He commenced his own business, the Walter Hewitt Cycle Company Limited, in the summer of 1908. The company manufactured Three Star, Excelsior bicycles and motorcycles. Walter was a member of the Coventry Chamber of Commerce representing the bicycle trade. He also served as President of the Cycle Manufacturers Association. He was a member of the Reform Club and Treasurer of the Coventry Liberal Association. He was a religious man who served as Warden and Vestryman at Holy Trinity Church. Whilst living in Earlsdon he became President of the Earlsdon Choral Society. Walter died aged 61 at home on 22 March 1911. His funeral was held at Coventry Cemetery three days later.
FRANCIS MOSELEY (COMMITTEE)
Francis was born at 21 Court, Moland Street, Birmingham on 20 December 1864. He lived in the Aston Manor suburb of Birmingham prior to coming to Coventry. He was a founder member of Singers Football Club having attended the meeting at the Lord Aylesford Inn, Aylesford Street, Hillfields on 13 August 1883. “Frank” as he was known, played for the club as a winger or inside forward. Due to the lack of match reports his total appearance record is unknown, but we do know he played 19 games between 1883 and 1889. He is also featured on the club’s first team group photograph taken during the 1885-86 season. Frank married Georgina Laura Lavinia Read Trewinnard in Coventry on 23 March 1889. At the time of his marriage he lived at 18 Vine Street, Hillfields. The 1891 Coventry Census states he was 26 years old, was employed as a bicycle fitter and resided at 38 Aylesford Street. When Frank retired from playing he became the club’s official umpire (linesman). He also qualified as a referee and officiated in many local matches. Frank died aged 60 at Birmingham General Hospital on 31 July 1925. At the time of his death he was living with his son, Arthur, at 276 Corporation Street, Birmingham and was employed as a bicycle mechanic.
WILLIAM MACKLIN JUNIOR (COMMITTEE)
William was born in 1858 in West Ashford, Kent. He married Anna Maria Pattison at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 19 March 1878. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 33 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. He was aged 22 and employed as a bicycle iron fitter. By 1891 he had moved to Thurlaston Villas, 4 Binley Road, Coventry. He formed his own bicycle manufacturing business sometime prior to 1901. The 1911 Studley Census lists him as living at The Oaks, Redditch Road, Mappleborough Green. He was aged 52, working from home as a bicycle machinist and possibly operating a small business. In his later years he was an employee of the Austin Motor Company. William died aged circa 70 on 25 August 1928.
FREDERICK HENRY MENCE (COMMITTEE)
Frederick was born in Worcester in 1865. He served an apprenticeship at the Railway Locomotive Works in Worcester prior to leaving his native city in 1888. He married Mary Elizabeth Timms at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 20 May 1888. He was initially employed at Joshua Jackson’s factory in White Friars Lane prior to being appointed Machine Shop Manager at the Singer Company. The 1892 Coventry Directory confirms he lived at 59 Colchester Street, Hillfields. The 1911 Coventry Census states he was employed as an engineer’s commercial salesman. This was for the English Electric Company based at the Coventry Ordnance Works situated in Ordnance Road, just off Stoney Stanton Road. Mence worked for this company for 16 years in the Small Tools Sales Department before leaving in January 1921. According to the 1921 Coventry Census, he resided at 35B Priory Street and was now operating from home with his own business factoring small engineering tools. During his time in Coventry he assisted several organisations, which included the Co-Operative Society, Coventry Musical Club, Coventry Unionist Club, Amalgamated Society of Engineers, Trades & Labour Council, Coventry Labour Party and the Coventry Technical College Committee. Frederick died aged 72 in Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital on 9 February 1938.
THOMAS BRISLIN (COMMITTEE)
Thomas was born in Snow Hill, Birmingham on 1 November 1860. He married Emily Louisa Townsend in Coventry on 15 November 1886. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 70 Gilbert Street, Hillfields. He was aged 30 and employed as a bicycle machinist. According to the 1901 Coventry Census he resided at 4 Eats Street, Hillfields and had the same occupation. At some point Thomas moved back to Birmingham. In 1921 he was living at 57 Astley Street and was working as a bicycle fitter. Thomas died aged 80 in Smethwick, Staffordshire in 1941.
SAMUEL PEARSON (COMMITTEE)
Very little is known about Samuel. He was born in Aston Birmingham in 1866. In 1881 he was living in Franchise Street, Handsworth. His father Samuel L. Pearson was employed as an engineer. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as a boarder at 79 Vine Street, Hillfields, the residence of Sarah Shufflebottom. Samuel worked as a bicycle finisher. Ancestry records suggest he did not marry. Details regarding his death remain unknown.
1890
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: WHITE LION HOTEL, GOSFORD GREEN, 24 JULY
Singers F.C. held their AGM at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 24 July. James Stringer chaired the meeting. James Morgan (Secretary) gave his report which included these comments: “For a junior team the Singers Football Club are excelled by none and equalled by few in the district. We have retained the prestige of former years, both for consistency and quality. Numerous improvements were made within the ground at the commencement of the season. Much still remained to be done, such as a reserved enclosure and erection of a covered stand. However, the latter could not be decided upon owing to the uncertain tenancy agreement.
The benefit match organised for Mr. (Joseph) Collins realised £47. During the season twenty-three matches were played, fifteen of which were won, four lost and four drawn. Receipts were £108, 5 shillings & fivepence. Expenditure amounted to almost £95. The balance in hand is £13, 6 shillings & sevenpence”. George Maley proposed Rule 3 should be changed so that the management committee consisted of ten non-plying members and four playing members. This was agreed. James Morgan suggested Rule 15 be expunged (no details of what this rule entailed). This was agreed. George Maley proposed Rule 4 be changed. He believed the club’s committee should meet on a weekly basis during the season and the secretary should call special meetings as and when required. This was agreed. An alteration of Rule 14 allowed the charge for season tickets to be increased to 2 Shillings from 1 shilling & sixpence.
The following officers were elected: President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – William Henry Walter Ballantine, James Charles Stringer, John Gulson, Joseph Cash junior, Thomas Owen, Charles Haywood senior, James Farish, Thomas Macklin, Richard Henry Lea and Walter Hewitt. Treasurer – J. Biggs, Secretary – James George Morgan, Assistant Secretary – Francis Moseley, Auditors – Edwin Kirk and Walter James Sidwell. Committee – Francis Moseley, George Arthur Maley, Joseph Charles Collins, Walter James Sidwell, Samuel Pearson, James Alfred Fisher, Charles Henry Plimmer, Edwin Wilkinson, Frederick James Cannings, Edwin Kirk, Thomas Cashmore and Mr. Allen.
NEW OFFICIALS
WILLIAM HENRY WALTER BALLANTINE (VICE PRESIDENT)
William was born in Saint Pancras, London on 10 February 1847. He was educated at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. He became a barrister after being called to the Bar on 26 January 1871. William married Eleanor Mitchell at Saint Bride Parish Church, Fleet Street, London on 6 April 1878. She died aged 31 four years later. His second marriage was to a lady called Lily, however, no other details are known. William was living at 50 Charles Street, Berkeley Square, London in 1880. He became a freemason after being initiated at a ceremony held at the Lodge of Antiquity on 25 May 1881. He was elected Liberal Member of Parliament for Coventry in 1887 and served for eight years. Walter donated a sum of money to the Singers F.C. Committee prior to the commencement of the 1890-91 season. The money was used to purchase fifteen white silk caps, these being presented to the players and later referred to as the “Ballantine Caps”. The 1895 Electoral Roll lists him as residing at 86 Victoria Street, Westminster, London. The 1901 Census states he lived in the West Cliff district of Bournemouth. Walter died aged 63 in Chelsea, London in 1911.
JOHN GULSON (VICE PRESIDENT)
John was born in Coventry on 23 October 1812. In 1835 he became Joint Secretary of the Mechanics Institute and contributed financially to assist the construction of the building. Three years later he entered the silk trade after forming a business partnership with a gentleman named Merrick. John was a member of the Liberal Party and a well-known philanthropist. In 1850 he formed a business partnership with Richard Calcott, later becoming involved with the Coventry Machinist Company, who manufactured bicycles. John married Sophia Louisa Miller at Saint John’s Church, Moneymore, Belfast on 6 November 1862. His persistent campaigning persuaded the city Council to adopt the Public Libraries Act, which ultimately led to the opening of the first library in Hertford Street in 1868. John was Mayor of Coventry in 1867 and 1868. In his spare time he enjoyed sketching landscapes and buildings. Much of his work was donated to our local authority. By 1891 the Gulson’s had moved to Wales, residing at 2 Glenmore Terrace,Llandudno, Caernarvonshire.
Sophia Gulson died in December 1895. John died aged 91 in Coventry on Christmas Day 1904. John Gulson School and Gulson Road are named after him.
JOSEPH CASH JUNIOR (VICE PRESIDENT)
Joseph was born in Coventry in 1853. In 1878 he joined the famous Cash family business, J. & J Cash Limited situated in Cash’s Lane, Foleshill. He combined commerce with agriculture, being joint-owner of a landed estate at Corley and a farm in Exhall. Joseph was known for the early manufacture of artificial silk and was instrumental in establishing a factory at Wolston for that purpose. He married Eliza Sara Lilla Downes on 29 May 1879 at Saint John the Evangelists Church, Leeds. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as residing at “The Gables”, Saint Nicholas Street. His occupation is described as “Frilling manufacturer employing 465 people”. Joseph was a former President of the Coventry Liberal Association, the Coventry Chamber of Commerce and the Reform Club. He also served on the Coventry Technical Institute Committee. In his younger days he played rugby union as a forward for Coventry Football Club. According to the 1891 Coventry Census, he acted as a Justice of the Peace and lived at “Bird Grove”, Foleshill Road. Joseph eventually moved from Coventry to reside in Kingsley, near Kenilworth. The 1921 Hertfordshire Census lists him as living at 67 Amwell Street, Hoddesdon. He was 68 years old and occupied his time by being a poultry farmer/dog breeder. Joseph died aged 74 in 1927 after recently undergoing a serious operation at Tottenham Hospital. He was interred in Buntingford, Hertfordshire on 17 November that year.
THOMAS OWEN (VICE PRESIDENT)
Thomas was born in Llanelidan, Denbighshire, Wales on 22 July 1846. He married Alice Mary Roberts at Saint Mark’s Church, Camden, London on 30 September 1868. He had a long-standing career as a licensed victualler, which explains why he moved about the country so much. The 1881 Liverpool Census lists him as residing at 38 Leeds Street, no doubt a public house. Alice Owen died aged 36 in 1885. Thomas married again, this time to Caroline Harriet Coles, at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 10 February 1886. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was the licensee holder of the Sydenham Palace Hotel and Music Hall. This was situated at 82 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. The “Sydenham” was a well-known entertainment establishment in Coventry and held many music events and smoking concerts, some of which benefited Singers Football Club/Coventry City Football Club. It was built in 1867 and opened as a fully licensed music hall in September 1891. The Concert Room could accommodate 500 people. Coventry City Football Club was registered as a limited liability company on 24 July 1907 with capital of £2,000 divided into five shilling shares. Thomas purchased enough shares to be appointed to the club’s first Board of Directors in which he acted as chairman. The “Sydenham” became the first headquarters of the Coventry City Supporters Club when that organisation was formed on 7 July 1920. Frank Charles Mackenzie was the proprietor at that time. Thomas died aged 69 in Coventry on 18 November 1915. At the time of his death he lived at “Ferndale” 84 Kingsway, Middle Stoke. His grave is situated in London Road Cemetery.
CHARLES HAYWOOD SENIOR (VICE PRESIDENT)
Charles was born in Witherley, Leicestershire in 1816. He married Rebecca White in Atherston in 1839. The 1861 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 35 Bradford Street, Hillfields. He was a skilled bricklayer who employed six men. Charles lived in Bradford Street for over 40 years and became a well-known builder. At some point he moved to 17 Bradford Street. Charles died aged 86 in Coventry on 27 May 1903.
JAMES FARISH (VICE PRESIDENT)
James was born in Lochmaben, Dumfriesshire, Scotland on 9 August 1823. He married Jane Cowan in Birmingham in 1849. He was elected Liberal Councillor for Gosford Street Ward, Hillfields in 1867 and served that district for nineteen years before standing down. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as proprietor of a Draper’s Shop in Melton Terrace, next to the Alma Tavern. He was aged 57 and a widower. James resurrected his political career in 1890 when he was elected with George Singer to represent Gosford Street Ward. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living in Priory Street. His civic duty included working on the Priory Street Baths Committee, Market Hall, General Work & Sanitary Committee and the Board of Guardians. He also served as President of the Coventry Swimming Club and Vice President of Craven Cricket Club. He was a member of the Coventry Liberal Association for thirteen years. James died aged 72 at his residence Annandale House in Coventry on 2 April 1895. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery three days later.
WALTER JAMES SIDWELL (AUDITOR)
Walter was born in Coventry in 1857. The 1881 Coventry Census states he resided at 29 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields and was employed as an iron turner at the Singer Factory. He married Sarah Ann Denny on 17 April 1887 at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry. Walter was a prominent member of the Singers Cycling Club. He was well-known for being the Conductor/Music Tutor/Leader of the famous Singer Apollo Silver Band, being appointed circa 1889. The Band had been formed approximately five years earlier. George Singer purchased a uniform for every band member. The Apollo Silver Band often entertained the crowd at Singers home games. The Singer Factory manufactured a special bicycle which could seat approximately fifteen band members. This was often used to attend events. The Apollo Silver Band was disbanded in April 1904 due to a slump in the bicycle trade. In addition, changes to members’ working practices meant some of them were unavailable to attend events. Walter was presented with a gold watch to commemorate his loyal service which amounted to fifteen years. The 1911 Coventry Census indicates he lived at 142 Gulson Road and was employed as an engine fitter. The 1921 Coventry Census lists him as living at the same address. He worked as a tool room fitter at Calcott Brothers Limited, motor car manufacturers based in Far Gosford Street, Hillfields. Walter died aged 66 in Coventry in 1923.
JAMES ALFRED FISHER (COMMITTEE)
James was born in Birmingham on 26 January 1839. He married Louisa Austin on 5 February 1860 at Saint Peter’s Church, Aston, Birmingham. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at 1 Leigh Street, Hillfields and he was employed as a iron turner. In 1891 he resided at 31 Raglan Street, Hillfields. James died aged 64 in Coventry in 1903.
CHARLES HENRY PLIMMER (COMMITTEE)
Charles was born in Wolverhampton in 1853. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as being a bicycle fitter and lodging at 60 Gosford Street, Hillfields, the residence of Thomas and Fanny Compton. Charles married Emma Lovegrove at Saint Mark’s Church, Coventry on Christmas Day 1881. The couple lived at 32 Winchester Street, Hillfields for over ten years. Their next door neighbour at number 34 was Herbert Turner, the former Singers F.C. player. Charles died aged 51 in Coventry in 1904.
E. WILKINSON (COMMITTEE)
Probably: Edwin Wilkinson who was born in Leicester on 24 October 1865. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at 30C Raglan Street, Hillfields. He was aged 15 and employed as an apprentice machinist. His father, Thomas, was a machinist who employed 12 men and 6 boys. Edwin married Emma Standbridge in Coventry on 6 November 1888. In 1891 he resided at 77 Far Gosford Street, Hillfields, next to Samuel Dowell’s business premises. Dowell allowed Singers F.C. to rent one of his fields known locally as Far Glade, which contained the club’s first pitch. Edwin was now working as a loom maker, a trade which he maintained for many years. The 1921 Coventry Census states he was 55 years old and proprietor of a loom-making business based in Payne’s Lane, Hillfields. The 1939 England & Wales Register indicates he was employed as a textile engineer and lived at 10 Saint Patrick’s Road, near New Union Street. Edwin died aged 79 in Gloucestershire on 18 April 1945. At the time of his death he was living at “Greyholme” in the village of Lower Slaughter.
FREDERICK JAMES CANNINGS (COMMITTEE)
Frederick was born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire on 22 January 1866. He married Louisa Satchwell at Saint John’s Baptist Church, Coventry on 30 December 1887. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 60 Primrose Hill Street, Hillfields. He was employed as a bicycle fitter. Frederick was a qualified referee and officiated many local games during the 1896-97 season. In 1901 he resided at 55 Vernon Street, Hillfields and worked as an examiner at a bicycle factory. The 1911 Coventry Census indicates he resided at 46 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. He was employed as a general fitter at a motor car works. The 1921 Coventry Census states he was an unemployed general fitter who worked with iron, steel and brass. His last employment at this time was at the Humber Works, Humber Road, Stoke. Frederick died aged 83 in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire in 1949.
EDWIN KIRK (COMMITTEE)
Edwin, known as “Teddy”, was born at 34 Union Street Bulls, Coventry on 6 May 1866. At the age of fourteen he followed in his father’s footsteps by securing employment as a watch finisher within Coventry’s famous watch-making industry. In 1891 Teddy lived with his parents at 99 Vine Street, Hillfields. He married Amy Ellen Burton on 5 August 1901 at Saint Paul’s Church, Foleshill. Teddy was 34 years old and his bride was nineteen. At the time of his marriage he worked as a commercial clerk and eventually became a builder’s clerk/cashier. Teddy was an all-round sportsman, being an excellent cricketer and cyclist, as well as occasionally playing rugby union. His main sporting interest was football and his performances for Singers Football Club enabled him to achieve legendary status. He made his debut for the Vocalists in 1888 as a left-winger. However, he later decided to convert to being a goalkeeper. His performances between the posts were of a consistently high level, which justifies the accolade of him being the first in a long list of outstanding goalkeepers for our club. Teddy was a firm crowd favourite and a star performer during Singers’ famous cup-final victories in 1891 and 1892. He retired from playing a year later, but made an emotional comeback in 1895 when the club was really struggling. His final appearance for the Vocalists was in the Birmingham & District League match against Shrewsbury Town at the Stoke Road Ground on 7 April 1896. He continued playing cricket for the successful Coventry & North Warwickshire Club. In 1897 he played a series of games for the Rudge-Whitworth Football Club, which culminated in him being a member of their team which won the Birmingham Junior Cup that year. Edwin died aged 90 at Coventry & Warwickshire Hospital on 8 April 1957 after suffering a serious accident at home. He is buried in the family grave at London Road Cemetery.
THOMAS JAMES CASHMORE (COMMITTEE)
Thomas, known as “Tom” was born in Dublin, Ireland on 23 November 1864. In 1881 he was living with his family at 1 Sinkhole, West Bromwich and was employed as a holloware caster (cookware/crockery maker). Exactly when he came to Coventry is unknown. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as a lodger at 62 Lower Ford Street, Hillfields, the residence of Horace Bailey. Tom was employed at the Singer Factory working as a bicycle machinist. Henry Hathaway, the former Singers F.C. player and secretary, was his next-door neighbour. Tom married Julia Twitchings at Saint Michael’s Church, Coventry on 23 August 1891. After the marriage the couple lived for many years in Hillfields, firstly at 93 Colchester Street and then at 51 Winchester Street. Tom was a member of the famous Singers F.C. team which won four trophies during the 1890-91 and 1891-92 seasons. He was a long-serving player who consistently performed to a high level as a full-back. Although still a playing member, he was appointed Secretary of Singers F.C. at the club’s Annual General Meeting held on 27 June 1895. He served with distinction for the next five years and acquired an exceptional reputation as an officer of the club. However, things turned sour at the AGM, chaired by Thomas Owen, held at the Sydenham Palace Hotel on 31 August 1900. Tom received a weekly payment of ten shillings (50 pence) to cover administration costs. This payment was queried at the meeting in a negative way with the possibility of accusations of misappropriation of club funds. Tom made a brief statement saying: “My desire is to make observations regarding the financial statement which has been presented”. Owen replied: “I think Mr. Cashmore is going too far. The matter he proposes to deal with would be better left out”. Tom replied: “Such being the chairman’s ruling I shall forgo speaking straight, I will conclude by thanking for the last time the presidents, vice presidents, members and season ticket holders who have allowed their names to be placed on the club cards. I thank those players who have assisted me in the past during times of adversity”. Tom resigned immediately. The Balance Sheet showed a loss of over £66. Tom received a salary of £20 a year which was criticised by Mr. Mitchell, a club member. Tom later stated: “The amount mentioned covers incidentals (expenses) week by week of a varied character. The Committee must know I have continually been putting my hand in my pocket (subsidising operational costs for the benefit of club finances). I have always done my level best for the club”. Any accusations against Tom were unfounded. It was a pity he left in such acrimonious circumstances for he was one of the true heroes of the Singers period. The Cashmore’s left Coventry soon afterwards and moved to Wolverton, Buckinghamshire. Tom had secured employment as a railway fitter for the London & North Western Railway Company, who had established an engine works in Wolverton in 1838. Thomas died on 7 January 1955 at the Highfield Nursing Home, Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire. He was 90 years old.
1891
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, WHITE LION HOTEL, 30 JULY
The AGM was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 30 July. George Maley chaired the meeting. Referring to the Balance Sheet, James Morgan (Secretary) stated total receipts for the previous year amounted to £231 and the current balance in hand was £14. He said the team had played 26 matches, of which they had won 18, drawn 3 and lost 5. The following officials were elected: President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – W. H. Ballantine, J. C. Stringer, J. Gulson, J. Cash (junior), C. Hayward (junior), J. Farish, T. Owen, T. Macklin, R. H. Lea, W. Hewitt and G. F. Spencer, Treasurer – A. Farmer, Secretary – James George Morgan, Assistant Secretary – J. Fisher. Committee: George Maley, Frank Moseley, Horace Bailey, Thomas Cashmore, Joseph Collins, George Dorrell, William Dorrell, Samuel Bullivant (Heath), Edwin Kirk, H.D. Cummings, M. Parsons, E. Wilkinson, D. Allen, J. Fisher, C. Smith, W. J. Sidwell and J. Witherley. First team Captain – Thomas Bird, Vice Captain – Frank Mobley.
For the coming season the ground admission price would be increased to threepence (one and a quarter new pence) and season tickets would cost two shillings and sixpence (approximately twelve new pence). A fee of three shillings (fifteen new pence) per annum applied to honorary members. Two proposals were defeated. The first was to change the kit and club colours which failed due to no seconder. A motion to charge an entrance fee for ladies was also dismissed.
NEW OFFICIALS
CHARLES HAYWOOD JUNIOR (VICE PRESIDENT)
He was born in Witherley, Leicestershire in 1845. He married Emma Mason in Coventry in 1865. The 1881 Coventry Census lists the couple as living at 23 Gosford Street, Hillfields. Charles was aged 35 and proprietor of a building business which employed 28 men and 4 boys. Sadly Emma died in 1885. Charles then married Mary Flint at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 26 July 1887. The couple resided at “Duntroon” Queen Victoria Road for many years. Charles died aged 62 in Coventry in 1907.
GEORGE FOX SPENCER (VICE PRESIDENT)
George was born in Lambeth, London on 2 June 1846. He married Clara Burgess in Lewisham, Kent on 8 July 1869. The 1881 Lambeth Census lists the couple as living at “Leicester House” Priory Road. George was aged 34 and worked as a builder. He was a Freemason and was initiated into the Lodge of Industrut, London on 27 February 1883. Sadly Clara died in 1887. George was proprietor of the Bridge Hotel in Chertsey, Surrey in 1888. He married Eliza Emmeline Robins in Reading the following year. The 1891 Coventry Census states George was proprietor of the Kings Head Hotel situated in Smithford Street. This hotel was in a prime location in the city centre and often staged events/meetings related to football and other sports. George was a councillor for Gosford Street Ward in 1896. He served on the Waterworks/Cemetery/Recreation Ground Committee and the Baths Committee. At this time he resided at The Farm, Old Allesley Road. He eventually left Coventry and moved to 14 Haggard Road, Twickenham, Middlesex. George died aged 52 on 6 April 1898. He is buried at Saint Mary the Virgin Church in Twickenham.
ARTHUR FARMER (TREASURER)
Arthur was born in Coventry circa 1852. He married Selina Farmer at Saint Luke’s Church, Birmingham on 5 April 1874. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at Stanton Villa, Stoney Stanton Road. He was employed as a blacksmith at a “bicycle works”, most likely at the Singer factory. In 1891 he resided at Barlow Cottage, 127 Stoney Stanton Road. He was 39 years old and had the same occupation. The Farmer family eventually moved to Earlsdon, at first residing in Grosvenor Road and then Westminster Road. Arthur was now employed as a motor engineer. Upon retiring he moved to Hampshire. The 1921 Bournemouth Census indicates he lived at 16 Pincliffe Avenue. Arthur died aged 82 in Bournemouth in 1935.
HORACE BAILEY (COMMITTEE)
Horace was born in New York, USA circa 1855. At some point he acquired British Citizenship. He married Rosa Morgan at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields, Coventry on 23 January 1876. The 1881 Coventry Census lists the couple as living at 3 Bridge Terrace, Far Gosford Street, Hillfields. Horace was employed as a bicycle machinist, most likely at the Singer Works. The Bailey family lived in Lower Ford Street, Hillfields for many years before moving to 107 Humber Avenue, Stoke. In 1911 Horace worked as a bicycle examiner. He was an official for the Coventry & District Football League for several years, acting both as referee and linesman. He also played cricket for the Craven Cricket Club which ultimately disbanded in 1900. Horace died aged circa 73 in Coventry on 11 April 1928.
LOUIS JAMES DALY (COMMITTEE)
Louis was born in Coventry on 3 February 1867. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 60 New Buildings, in the city centre. He was aged fourteen and employed as an apprentice bicycle maker. He married Florence Honora E. Reynolds in Coventry in 1893. Sadly, she died in 1896. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates Louis was living at 125 Cox Street and worked as a clerk at a coal merchant business. His second marriage was to Tabia Elizabeth Reynolds in Coventry in 1912. The 1921 Coventry Census indicates his employer was Brenforall & Cleveland Coal Merchants based in Central Chambers, Broadgate. Louis had been promoted to a managerial position and now resided at 85 Little Park Street. Prior to the outbreak of World War Two, he was living at 52 Grosvenor Road, Earlsdon. He died aged 72 at the Highlands Nursing Home, Saint Nicholas Street, Hillfields on 14 November 1940. He was a victim of the Coventry Blitz inflicted by the German Luftwaffe. He is buried in London Road Cemetery.
JOHN WILLIAM WITHERLEY (COMMITTEE)
John was born in Bromley, Middlesex circa 1864. He was baptised at All Saints Church, Poplar, Middlesex on 21 February 1864. The 1881 London Census lists him as living at 8A Lefevre Road, Bow. He was aged seventeen and employed as a railway engine fitter. It’s not known exactly when he came to Coventry. However, he was an employee at the Singer Works in 1890 and was a member of the company’s Picnic Committee which oversaw arrangements for the annual picnic held in the grounds of Stoneleigh Deer Park, the home of Lord Leigh. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was a lodger at Harry Sheasby’s residence, 89 Vine Street, Hillfields. He was aged 27 and worked as a bicycle fitter. In October 1891 he became the landlord of the Foresters Arms public house, 76 Raglan Street, Hillfields after the licence had been transferred from George Statham. John was a very keen cyclist and a new cycling club was formed at the Foresters Arms in May 1892. The club’s captain was Charles Wright and John was appointed treasurer. In August 1892 John, along with Joseph Rollason, invented a combined tool for “reducing and opening leaded water pipes, gas pipes and beer pipes”. No doubt this tool assisted him during his time in the pub trade. At some point the Singers Cycling Club established their headquarters at the Foresters Arms. Local newspaper reports confirm they were headquartered there during 1894 and 1895. An unfortunate incident happened at the Foresters Arms in March 1899. Police Sergeant Rollins was patrolling in Raglan Street at 2.30am one morning when he heard several voices coming from the public house. Suspecting after hours consumption of alcohol, Rollins attempted to gain entry but was denied by the landlord, who eventually allowed the officer into the premises at 4.30am. The case was heard at Coventry Police Court and Rollins testified he did not see any evidence of after hours drinking. However, the judge stated John had broken the law by refusing Rollins entry into the premises when first requested. The judge fined John 10 shillings plus costs despite this being the first incident at the pub since he had become landlord. John did not marry. He died aged 36 in Coventry on 21 July 1901.
GEORGE FREEMAN DORRELL (COMMITTEE)
George was the elder brother of William Dorrell, the famous Singers F.C./Leicester Fosse F.C./Aston Villa F.C. player. He was born in Birmingham on 26 March 1865. Prior to coming to Coventry he was employed at the British Small Arms Company (BSA), Birmingham, in the Gun Quarter of the city. He played football for Small Heath Alliance F.C. (later became Birmingham City F.C.). George came to Coventry in 1886, initially working at the Rudge Bicycle Company before joining the Singer Cycle Company as a bicycle fitter. He made 32 appearances for the Vocalists between 1888 and 1893, mainly playing as a half-back. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 21 Adelaide Street, Hillfields. He married Mary Ann Dadley at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 15 March 1891. In 1901 the Dorrell family resided at 78 Gilbert Street, Hillfields. George died aged 74 in Coventry on 16 December 1939. At the time of his death he lived at 13 Rosslyn Avenue, Coundon. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
SAMUEL BULLIVANT (AKA HEATH) (COMMITTEE)
Samuel was born in Birmingham on 29 January 1866. His father, John, died the previous year. His mother, Elizabeth, married William Heath in Aston in 1879. When Samuel left school he found work as a gun finisher and lived at 26 Poole Street, Aston. Samuel and his elder brother William, were both employed as bicycle fitters at the Singer Factory. When Samuel played for the Vocalists he used the Heath surname most likely out of respect for his step-father. Samuel made over 40 first team appearances for Singers. He married Jane Whitehouse in Coventry on 8 November 1890. She was the sister of Joseph Whitehouse, who later played for Singers F.C. and Coventry City F.C. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates the Bullivants resided at 50 Vernon Street, Hillfields, the residence of Jane’s mother, Mercy Whitehouse. Also living at that property was William Cashmore, former Singers F.C. player and current principal trainer for the club. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates Samuel and Jane had moved to 4 Vernon Street, Hillfields. He was now working as a bicycle handlebar maker. He was forced to retire from football in 1895 due to an injury. He later became principal trainer for the Vocalists when William Cashmore vacated that position. He also became a qualified referee and officiated in many local matches. Samuel died aged 72 at home, 94 North Street, Upper Stoke, Coventry on 13 September 1938.
THOMAS BIRD (COMMITTEE)
Thomas was born in Smethwick, Staffordshire on 11 April 1868. He married Sarah Ann Hill at Saint James’s Church, Handsworth, Staffordshire on 28 March 1891. According to the 1891 Coventry Census the couple lived at 60 Howard Street, Hillfields. Thomas was employed at the Singer Factory as an iron turner and was captain of the famous Singers F.C. team, which won four trophies between 1891 and 1892. They were known locally as the Little Blackbirds due to the predominantly black kit they wore. Thomas made 197 appearances for the Vocalists between 1890 and 1897. The 1901 Coventry Census lists him as living at 117 Eagle Street, Coventry and was employed as a general turner/fitter. He amassed nearly 50 years service at the Singer Company before retiring. Thomas died aged 71 at his son’s residence, 15 Norman Place Road, Coundon, Coventry on 6 November 1939.
WILLIAM DORRELL (COMMITTEE)
William was born in Woodbine Cottage, Wright Street, Aston on 30 October 1872. He was affectionately known as “Billy”. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as a lodger living at 7 Read Street, Hillfields, the residence of Sophia Tye. William was married three times during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Clara Amelia Davis in Coventry on 30 January 1892. His second marriage was to Maria Ford in Leicester in 1908. Finally he tied the knot with Alice Frederica Allgood on 3 August 1918 in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire.
Between 1889 and 1892 Billy played 66 games for the Vocalists and scored 46 goals. He joined Leicester Fosse F.C. in 1892 staying for just one season. The following year he joined Aston Villa F.C. and his top quality performances for them made him a star player, like he was for Singers. Billy died aged 80 in Leicester on 14 February 1953. His grave is in the city’s Belgrave Cemetery.
FRANK MOBLEY (COMMITTEE)
Frank was born in Booth Street, Handsworth on 21 November 1868. He joined Singers F.C. in the summer of 1890. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as a lodger living at 44 Raglan Street, Hillfields, the residence of George Allen. He was employed at the Singer Works as a bicycle machinist. Frank was elected vice-captain of the Vocalists at the 1891 AGM. He was a prolific goal-scoring centre-forward. His outstanding performances earned him a formidable reputation. Between 1890 and 1892 he made 56 appearances for Singers and scored 69 goals. Frank was a key member of the famous Little Blackbirds team which won four trophies during his time in Coventry. His goalscoring exploits brought him to the attention of Small Heath F.C. (later became Birmingham City F.C.). He joined them as a full-time professional at the end of the 1891-92 season and continued to score goals at a higher level. Frank married Harriet Elizabeth Hunt in Birmingham in 1900. The 1911 Aston Census lists the Mobley family as living at 49 Gordon Street, Deritend. Frank was employed as a steam raising machine operator. He died aged 87 at his son’s residence, 125 Ombersley Road, Balsall Heath on 9 February 1956. He was buried in the family grave at Christ Church, Yardley Wood, Birmingham five days later.
1892
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, WHITE LION HOTEL, 8 AUGUST
A special meeting of the Singers Football Club was held at the White Lion Hotel on 8 August. Despite the huge success achieved the previous season, there had been persistent rumours the club would be disbanded due to the current slump in the bicycle trade. George Maley chaired the meeting and informed the large gathering this was not the case. He announced the club had entered the Football Association Cup and the Birmingham Senior Cup for the first time in their history. Maley said there was an expectation that the club would continue to be successful and remain one of the best junior teams in the Midlands. The AGM was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 16 August. George Maley chaired the meeting. James Morgan (Secretary) informed those present that the team had played 34 matches, 16 of them being cup-ties. They won 26, drew 4 and lost 4. The Vocalists scored 134 goals and conceded 42. Morgan then gave details of the playing record for the past five seasons. He confirmed Singers had played 125 games, won 81, drawn 19 and lost 25. During that period the team scored 430 goals and conceded 164. In addition, Singers Reserves were undefeated since October 1890. His financial statement confirmed receipts totalled £410, 14 Shillings, of which £133, 13 shillings was paid via gate money to visiting clubs. The balance in hand amounted to £18, 16 shillings. A motion by Thomas Harris, seconded by James Fisher, proposing James Morgan (Secretary) should be a paid official, was carried unanimously.
Thomas Bird was elected team captain and the club colours for the forthcoming season would remain black & red. Singers Reserves would play in black & white.
The following officers were elected: President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – William Ballantine, John Gulson, James Farish, Charles Haywood (junior), George Spencer, Alfred Drinkwater, Joseph Cash (junior), Charles Murray, Thomas Browett, James Stringer, Thomas Macklin, Richard Lea, Walter Hewitt, William Calcott, Enoch West and Thomas Owen. Treasurer – Arthur Farmer, Secretary – James Morgan, Assistant Secretary- Joseph Collins and Auditors – Edwin Kirk, Louis Daly. The names of Committee members are unknown.
NEW OFFICIALS
ALFRED HENRY DRINKWATER (VICE PRESIDENT)
Alfred was born in Gloucester in 1851. He came to Coventry from Birmingham in 1879 and established a watch-making business. He married Christina Wright Reid at the West Orchard Chapel, Coventry that same year. According to the 1881 Coventry Census the couple lived at Jedburgh House, 27 Butts, Spon End. He was regarded as the “Father of Coventry Council” having completed nearly 45 years service. He commenced his civic duty in 1889 when he was elected representative for the Spon Street Ward, a position he held until his death. Here is a summary of his public service: Mayor (1903 to 1905), Appointed to the position of Alderman (1902), Chairman of the City Water Works & Fire Brigade Committee (1908) and Justice of the Peace (1906). He was awarded an honorary Freeman of the City status in 1927. He also served as a member of the following organisations: Coventry & District Fire Brigades Association, Coventry Licensing Committee, Coventry Branch Royal National Lifeboat Association, Coventry Chrysanthemum Society, Coventry Liberal Club, Coventry Movement (watch-making) Company, Watch Trade Protection Association, Swimming & Life Saving Society and the British Legion Number 2 Branch. His charity work was well recognised through his work for the Board of Guardians, Philanthropic Societies Flag-Day Committee, Chapelfields Society and the Poor Children’s Boot Fund. Alfred was a Freemason and was initiated into the Stoneleigh Lodge on 11 March 1897. He was also a keen follower of football and took a particular interest in the Midland Daily Telegraph Cup Competitions. He often presented the trophy to the winning team’s captain when the finals were held usually on Easter Monday. Alfred died aged 83 at home on 21 August 1934. His funeral service was held at West Orchard Congregational Church four days later, prior to being interred at Coventry Cemetery.
CHARLES JAMES MURRAY (VICE PRESIDENT)
He was born in Cairo, Al Qahirah, Egypt on 29 November 1851 but qualified as a British Subject. He married Lady Anne Francesca Wilhelmina Finch at Saint Paul’s Church, Hilton Place, London on 9 August 1875. Charles was aged 23 and a member of the British Diplomatic Service. He was a Freemason and a member of the Saint Leonard’s Lodge in Sussex. He was initiated into the organisation on 3 December 1879. The 1881 London Census lists the couple as residing at 27 Berkeley Square. Charles was elected Conservative Member of Parliament for Coventry in 1895, serving until 1908. According to the 1901 Census the Murray’s lived at Lillington Hall situated in Hampton-in-Arden, Warwickshire. The 1911 London Census lists them as residing at 29 Lennox Gardens, Chelsea. Charles was aged 59 and a Major in the Territorial Army. After retiring from politics he initially lived in Berkshire before moving to Scotland. He died aged 77 at Loch Carron on 25 September 1929. At the time of his death he resided at Courthill, Kishorn, Strathcarson. He was interred at Kishorn Burial Ground.
THOMAS BROWETT (VICE PRESIDENT)
Thomas was born in Coventry on 2 March 1821. He was the son of William Browett, who owned a cotton manufacturing business in Leicestershire and resided in Stoke Village. He married Catherine Robinson at Saint Michael’s Church, Coventry on 13 November 1849. She was the daughter of William Robinson, a local ribbon manufacturer. Thomas had an outstanding career in the legal profession which commenced when he was articled as a solicitor to the Town Clerk of Northampton. He was appointed Town Clerk of Coventry on 20 November 1858 upon the resignation of Thomas Ball Troughton, with a yearly salary of £400, a huge amount of money in those days. Thomas attended his first Council meeting on 10 December that year and served for 34 years, before stepping down on 28 February 1893. In his capacity as Coventry Town Clerk he was instrumental in the development of Hillfields and Earlsdon, along with Lower Ford Street, Alma Street and Hood Street. He lived at Westfield House, Radford for over 30 years. He often walked to work into the city centre even in his later years and also enjoyed the occasional game of billiards. Thomas was well-known for his cheerful and amiable disposition. He was churchwarden of Holy Trinity Church for many years and became a senior member of the vestry. He was politically aligned with the Liberal Party. Thomas provided the mortgage for a shop situated on the corner of Canterbury Street/Colchester Street in Hillfields. Singers F.C. established their Stoke Road Ground in 1887 on land owned by Joshua Perkins junior, who was proprietor of Britannia Mills in Payne’s Lane. The football pitch was marked out across two fields named Nursery Field and House Meadow, after boundaries had been removed. Perkins sold this land to Browett circa 1891. Thomas died aged 87 at Westfield House on 12 February 1909. As a mark of respect the bells of Holy Trinity Church were tolled from 1pm to 2pm that day. His funeral took place four days later and his grave is situated at Saint Nicholas Churchyard, Radford, Coventry.
WILLIAM CALCOTT (VICE PRESIDENT)
William was born in Radford Village near Coventry in 1847. He married Emily Pateman in Coventry in 1880. He was initially employed by a drapery business but later switched to the bicycle trade, working at the Singer Factory. He formed Calcott Brothers & West Company in 1888 along with his brother, James and Enoch John West, who at the time was Managing Director at the Progress Cycle Company. Calcott’s, originally based in Gosford Street, sold XL bicycles. The business later relocated to Much Park Street and was converted to a limited liability company in August 1896. William was a member of the Cycle Manufacturers Trade Protection Association. He was a staunch supporter of the National Cycle Show held annually at the Crystal Palace building in London. Thomas was elected councillor for Earl Street Ward in November 1891, a position he held until his death. He served on several committees, including those for Electric Light, Watch, Gas, Water Works and Sanitary. William was a Freemason and initiated into the Prince Frederick William Lodge on 24 November 1897. In 1901 he acquired a business interest in J.E. Newark & Company Limited, timber merchants based in Stoney Stanton Road. His political persuasion lay with the Liberal Party and for many years he associated with the Rehoboth Baptist Church in Ford Street. William died aged 55 at home, Trinity Lodge, Allesley on 10 August 1903. His funeral service was held at Coventry Cemetery three days later.
ENOCH JOHN WEST (VICE PRESIDENT)
Enoch was born in Exhall near Coventry in 1864. He worked briefly as a house painter before securing an apprenticeship at the Singer Company. He married Selina Harrison in Coventry in 1886. He entered into a business partnership in 1888 with William and James Calcott to form Calcott Brothers & West. Three years later he commenced manufacturing bicycles under his own name by forming E.J. West & Company based in Stoney Stanton Road. His business partner was William Henry Harris. Enoch was President of the Royal Progress Cycle Club. In 1896 he reconstructed his firm into a limited liability company with initial capital of £30,000. James George Morgan, the former Singers F.C. Secretary, was appointed Works Manager and a shareholder. Business did not go well and the new company was acquired by the Progress Cycle Company in April 1897. Enoch was appointed Managing Director and remained a shareholder. Progress was well-known for the manufacture of their Popular and Royal bicycles. The factory had enough employees to form their own football team and at times competed with Singers F.C. and Rudge F.C. In 1899 Progress began manufacturing 2.5 horse-power motor cars and two years later they made motor-cycles. The diversified products put a severe strain on company finances. As a result, Progress entered voluntary liquidation in November 1903. The Royal Progress title was purchased by the owners of Edward O’Brien Limited. Enoch did not give up on his business career. He formed E.J. West & Company in February 1904 and specialised in the production of motor chassis. The 1911 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 18 Regent Street, Earlsdon. Enoch died aged 73 on 2 September 1937. At the time of his death he lived at Heath House, Priory Road, Kenilworth. His funeral was held at Kenilworth Cemetery four days later. Edwin “Teddy” Kirk, the famous Singers F.C. goalkeeper and local cricketer, attended.
1893
SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING, WHITE LION HOTEL, 27 JUNE
The football club was in turmoil during the summer of 1893. Two parties directly involved in the management of the club had different visions regarding its immediate future. One party, led by George Maley, Thomas Macklin, Walter Sidwell, with support from Thomas Cashmore and M. Parsons, wanted to convert the club into an entity which represented the city of Coventry. This concept was opposed by the other party, led by Edwin Kirk, Frank Moseley and J. Biggs. A Special General Meeting was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 27 June, to try to resolve the situation. George Maley chaired the meeting. The view of George Singer had been previously sought and he said: “If it will be of any advantage to make the football club a Coventry club, there is no reason why it should not be done. It will give you a large scope for selection of players and no doubt the club would then be very strong”. Maley made a controversial proposal by saying Singers F.C. and Rudge F.C. should amalgamate. He believed football in Coventry and the surrounding area would be better represented nationally with a stronger, unified club which represented the city. His idea did not gain any immediate support. Walter Sidwell made the following proposal: “That the Singers Football Club be converted into a town club”. The proposal was agreed upon but was subject to ratification. In the meantime a sub-committee was formed to canvass support for the proposal with the intention of adopting a new name at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, KINGS HEAD HOTEL BROADGATE, 4 JULY
The AGM was held at the Kings Head Hotel, Broadgate on 4 July. George Maley chaired the meeting. The main business of the evening was to agree on whether to change the club’s name. It emerged Thomas Macklin had reversed his stance and was now supporting the faction which wanted to retain the Singers title. J. Biggs advised those present that whether there was a Coventry club started or not, there would still be a Singer Works team. Frank Moseley, the well-respected former Singers player, supported the statement made by Biggs. George Maley interjected by saying: “It must be distinctly understood that if the resolution passed last week is confirmed tonight, then Mr. Macklin or anyone else connected with the Singer Works wished to run a team, they would have to start a new club. All the property owned by the Singers club would become the property of the club under the new name”. J. Biggs enquired as to progress regarding Maley’s proposal to amalgamate with Rudge F.C. Preliminary discussions had taken place with two representatives of the Spon End-based club but no firm commitment had been received. Effectively the amalgamation idea was dead in the water because Rudge F.C. were in a strong position at this time and successful on the pitch. A row then broke out regarding adoption of the minutes for the previous meeting. J. Biggs proposed an amendment to adopt the minutes with an exception regarding the formation of a Coventry Club. The amendment was passed by 11 votes to 4 which meant the Singers F.C. title was retained. Edwin Kirk read the Annual Report which indicated the team had played 31 matches, won 16, drawn 2 and lost 13. Receipts amounted to just under £299 and Expenditure totalled just under £267, leaving a healthy balance. The election of officers was deferred for a week when another meeting was scheduled to take place.
ADJOURNED ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, WHITE LION HOTEL, 11 JULY
The adjourned AGM was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 11 July. William Macklin (junior) chaired the meeting. There was some discussion in relation to professional players wishing to be reinstated as amateurs. Newly elected Secretary Joseph Collins confirmed only one player had made such an application to him. Thomas Bird was elected captain of the first team and the position of vice captain was taken by Walter Edmond. James Morgan suggested the club would be better off entering the Football Association Amateur Cup rather than the F.A. Cup. Collins said this was not possible given the status of some of the club’s players. The financial position was not reported by the local press. George Singer was unanimously elected President. The Vice Presidents were all re-elected, these being: James Stringer, William Ballantine, John Gulson, Joseph Cash (junior), Charles Haywood (junior), George Spencer, Alfred Drinkwater, William Calcott, Charles Murray, James Morgan, Thomas Macklin, Richard Lea, Walter Hewitt, Enoch West and Thomas Owen. Joseph Collins replaced Edwin Kirk as Secretary. Horace Bailey was elected Assistant Secretary. William Macklin (senior) was appointed Treasurer. Two Auditors were elected, these being Thomas Cashmore and J.Lee. A vote was taken and it was decided to reduce the number of committee members from 20 to 15. Committee: William Macklin (senior), Thomas Bird (first team captain), Owen Ireland (reserve team captain), Joseph Collins, Frank Moseley, Charles Wright, James Stone, Frederick Mence, Horace Bailey, Joseph Briggs, J.Lee, A. Beaufoy, C. Flinn, H. Swain and Dowell. Team colours remained the same as last season.
NEW OFFICIALS
J. LEE (AUDITOR)
Possibly Jonathan Lee who was born in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire in 1842. He married Eliza Adkins in Coventry in 1875. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at 16 Queen Street, Hillfields. He was aged 38 and employed as a clerk at a bicycle manufacturer. The 1891 Coventry Census states he was employed as a commercial clerk and resided at 4 Paynes Lane, Hillfields. The 1921 Coventry Census lists him as living at 69 Widdrington Road, Bishopsgate Green. He was aged 79 and a retired company secretary. He was previously employed at the Sparkbrook Company Limited, Bicycle Manufacturers, Paynes Lane. Jonathan died aged 90 at the Highlands Nursing Home, Coventry on 2 April 1932.
Possibly John Lee who was born in Bedworth in 1841. He married Mary A. Thorneloe in Coventry in 1864. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 12 Colchester Street, Hillfields. He was aged 50 and employed as a storekeeper at a bicycle works. John died aged 56 in Coventry in 1897. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery.
OWEN ADOLPHUS IRELAND (COMMITTEE)
He was born in Coventry on 13 January 1869. The 1881 Aston Manor Census lists the Ireland family as residing at 48 Mill Lane, Theodore Place. He was a scholar aged 12. At some point the Ireland family moved back to Coventry. Owen was elected captain of Singers Reserves prior to the commencement of the 1894-95 season. He married Frances Fanny Neville in 1896. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates he was living at Court 11, 1 Union Street, Whitefriars and was employed as a turner in the bicycle trade. Football correspondent “Nemo” of the Midland Daily Telegraph (Monday 23/9/1901) reported on the game between Clifton Victorias F.C. (Coventry) and Hinckley Town Reserves F.C. The match was played the previous Saturday and Clifton won 3-1. Here is an extract: “James is a very capable left winger (Hinckley). He reminded me of Owen Ireland who was some seasons ago so active a little player for the old Singers Reserves, who did some very useful work”. The 1921 Coventry Census lists Owen as aged 52 and an unemployed metal grinder living at 11 Albion Street. He was previously employed at the Swift Motor Works, Parkside. In 1939 he resided at “Saint Francis”, Woodland Road, Binley Woods. He often socialised at the Rosycombe public house. Owen died aged 75 at his son-in-law’s house, 93 Chandos Street, Upper Stoke, Coventry on 7 May 1944. His funeral was held at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
CHARLES WRIGHT (COMMITTEE)
Charles was born in Aston, Birmingham on 25 October 1863. The 1881 Coventry Census indicates he resided at 111 East Street, Hillfields. He was 17 years old and worked as a bicycle driller. Charles married Elizabeth Athersuch at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 11 July 1886. Elizabeth lived at 76 Raglan Street, Hillfields. In 1890 Charles was a member of the Singer Picnic Committee and vice-captain of the Singers Cycling Club. The Picnic Committee oversaw arrangements for the annual picnic held at Stoneleigh Deer Park, the residence of Lord Leigh. The 1891 Coventry Census lists the Wright family as living at 8 Byfield Terrace, Stoney Stanton Road. Charles was 27 years old and employed as a bicycle iron turner. He was a linesman for the Singers F.C. Trial Match played on 22 August 1894 between the club’s First Team and Reserves. Singers F.C. changed its title to Coventry City F.C. on 12 August 1898. Charles was appointed treasurer of the new club. According to the 1901 Coventry Census the Wright family had moved to 127 Stoney Stanton Road. Charles was now multi-skilled and worked as a mechanic/fitter/turner. He died aged 48 in Coventry on 5 December 1911.
JAMES WILSON STONE (COMMITTEE)
James was born in Toodale, part of the Darley Dales, Derbyshire in 1842. He married Ellen Hulley at Saint Jude’s Church, Eldon, Sheffield on 20 March 1864. The 1881 Sheffield Census shows he lived at 9 Weigh Lane. He was 38 years old and employed as a file hardener, an occupation which remained with him for his entire working career. James was a member of the Singer Picnic Committee and the Singers Cycling Club. The picnic was enjoyed by Singer employees and friends once a year held at Stoneleigh Deer Park, the home of Lord Leigh. The 1891 Coventry Census confirms he was a boarder at 51 Winchester Street, Hillfields, the residence of Harry Cotton. In 1901 James was living at 18 Silver Street, city centre with his son-in-law, Ernest Bellis. The 1921 Coventry Census indicates he resided at 30 Silver Street, in accommodation being part of business premises owned by L. Brookes & W. E. Dalton, file manufacturers. James died aged 82 in Coventry in 1925.
JOSEPH BRIGGS (COMMITTEE)
Joseph was born in Small Heath, Birmingham in 1869. The 1881 Birmingham Census lists him as being 12 years old and living at 136 Muntz Street, Aston. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was a boarder at 69 Winchester Street, Hillfields, the residence of Edwin Haywood, a draper. Joe was 21 years old and employed as a bicycle machinist. He made 36 first team appearances as a winger/inside forward for Singers F.C. between 1889 and 1895, scoring 14 goals. He also played 44 games for Singers Reserves and scored 18 goals. Joe married Emma Maria Stanley at Vine Street Chapel, Hillfields on 26 November 1892. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates Joe had taken over the draper’s business in Winchester Street but was still employed in the bicycle trade. He acquired the licence of the Royal Exchange public house situated in Castle Street, Hillfields in November 1908. His career as a licensed victualler did not last long as he left the pub trade in November 1912. The 1921 Coventry Census confirms he resided at 14 Bolingbroke Road, Lower Stoke. He was employed as a motor engine fitter at the Humber Works, Humber Avenue and was a member of the Amalgamated Engineering Union. He often socialised at the Bulls Head Hotel, Binley Road. Joe died aged 60 at home on 6 June 1929. His funeral was held at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
1894
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: WHITE LION HOTEL, GOSFORD GREEN 31 JULY
The AGM was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 31 July. Thomas Henry Harris chaired the meeting. Joe Collins (Secretary) read out the Annual Report. He confirmed the First Team had been elected to the Birmingham & District League. He also announced the Reserve Team had become members of the North Warwickshire League. Collins said the First Team had played 26 games during the 1893-94 season, with a record of won 15, drawn 5 and lost 6. Goals for 71 and goals against 33. The Reserves played 25 matches, won 17, drawn 3 and lost 5. Goals for 41 and against 24. The Balance Sheet showed receipts of just over £247 and expenditure amounting to just over £276. A loss of just under £29 was recorded. The following officers were elected: President – George Singer, Vice Presidents – William Ballantine, John Gulson, James Farish, Charles Haywood (junior), Alfred Drinkwater, Thomas Owen, William Calcott, James Stringer, Charles Murray, Thomas Macklin, Enoch West, Walter Hewitt, Richard Lea, George Streetly, Harry Hornsby, James Morgan, T. Taylor, W. Mills and J. Hart. Secretary – Joseph Collins, Financial Secretary/Treasurer – W. Hart, Assistant Secretary – J. Lee, Auditors – Frederick Barnett and J. Lee. Committee – Charles Wright, Frederick Barnett, Francis Moseley, Joseph Biggs, Oliver Plummer, Alfred Sidwell, Mark Daniels, Richard Greaves, John Dodd, Harry Thompson, John Crook, William Spink, James Stone, Joseph Collins, William Macklin, J. Lee, W. Hart, J. Mitchell, Walter Edmond (First Team Captain), unknown (First Team Vice Captain) and Owen Ireland (Reserve Team Captain).
NEW OFFICIALS
THOMAS HENRY HARRIS
Thomas was born in Blackheath, Kent circa 1849. He married Clara Maria Liddon at Saint Alphage Church, Greenwich, London on 14 November 1872. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at Fern Cottage, 2 Paynes Lane, Hillfields. He was aged 32 and employed as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Works. In 1890 Thomas was treasurer of the Singer Picnic Committee. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he resided at 1 Orme Villa, Lower Ford Street. By then he had progressed to become a manager at the Singer Works, quite some achievement given his humble beginnings in the industry. Upon the death of Thomas Macklin, he was appointed Works Manager at the Singer Company. Politically he supported the Liberal Party and was appointed Justice of the Peace in 1892. He served for many years and gained the respect of working class people, who regarded him as being fair and considerate. He had a long association with the Working Men’s Hospital Saturday Committee, a body which oversaw the welfare of many working class people. Thomas had to relinquish his position as Works Manager when he suffered a lengthy paralysis illness. His condition was treated at a hospital in London and he stayed with his brother in Brixton during his recovery period. His health suffered a relapse when he contracted pneumonia. Thomas died aged 54 at 58 Barrington Road, Brixton, Surrey on 11 November 1903. Prior to moving to Surrey he lived in Nicholls Street, Hillfields. His funeral took place at Coventry Cemetery five days later. His coffin was conveyed from London to Coventry by train and taken to the cemetery. There was a large crowd of mourners waiting. The Singer Factory was closed for two working hours so employees could attend. George Singer, Walter Hewitt and John Grirriths, all directors, represented the company. Also in attendance was Charles Christopher Charsley, Coventry’s Chief Constable. Charsley was a former Small Heath F.C. (later Birmingham City F.C.) goalkeeper who successfully led Coventry City’s campaign to be elected to the Football League in 1919. The coffin bearers were James Morgan, Frank Bagnall, Samuel Pearson, Walter Sidwell, Joseph Collins and Herbert Duret, all Singer employees. The Singer Company, Singers Cycling Club and Singer Motor Department all sent wreaths.
GEORGE STREETLY (VICE PRESIDENT)
George was born in Coventry in 1862 and baptised at Saint Peter’s Church on 28 March. He took a law examination in Coventry on 12 May 1880 and subsequently became a qualified solicitor. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as living at “The Laurels” Middleborough Street, near Barrs Hill. He was aged 19 and employed as a Solicitor’s Articled Clerk. George was a Liberal and a Freemason, being initiated into the Trinity Lodge (Coventry) on 5 May 1887. By 1891 he had commenced his own law practice based in an office at 6 Hay Lane in the city centre. That year he was elected to the Coventry School Board and appointed a Commissioner of Oaths by the Lord Chancellor. He was closely connected to South Street School. In 1892 he was a member of the Golden Cross (pub) Philanthropic Society and was reported to be the accountant for the Coventry Liberal Association. George married Mary Ann Hughes at Saint Mark’s Church, Coventry on 20 May 1893. In 1898 he was an agent for the Royal Exchange Assurance Company Fire & Life. The 1901 Coventry Census indicates the Streetly’s resided at 13 Grosvenor Road, Earlsdon. The 1911 Coventry Census describes his occupation as Organising Lecturer/Secretary, a position relating to the Allotments & Small Holdings Association. An example of his work is a speech he gave at the Bricklayers Arms public house in June 1909, to members of the newly-formed Foleshill & District Allotment Association. His speech outlined the legal requirements for the creation of an allotment according to the Small Holdings & Allotment Act (1908). By 1918 he had become the Midlands & North representative for the National Union of Allotment Holders whose headquarters were based at 55 Temple Row, Birmingham. George died aged 71 in Seaford, East Sussex on 4 March 1933.
HARRY HORNSBY (VICE PRESIDENT)
Harry was born in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire on 8 September 1861. He was a former Singers F.C. player who played in the half back position. Harry made his debut for the Vocalists against Smethwick Carriage Works F.C. (Staffordshire) on 5 October 1889. A crowd of approximately 700 saw Singers win 2-1. He made 16 first team appearances during the 1889-90 season and scored 1 goal. His last game for the club was in the Birmingham Junior Cup Semi-Final 2nd Replay on 31 March 1890. The match was held at the Coventry Cricket Ground, Butts. Singers lost 2-1 to Packington in front of a crowd estimated at 2,000. Harry acquired the licence of the Rose & Woodbine public house, 78 Stoney Stanton Road in 1889 and became a member of the Licensed Victuallers Association. He married Rose Annie Tanser at Saint Paul’s Church, Leamington Priors on 5 May 1892. The 1939 England & Wales Register states he was a retired bank clerk residing at 5 Lillington Road, Leamington Spa. Harry died aged 86 in Leamington Spa on 27 April 1948.
J. HART (VICE PRESIDENT)
Possibly: JOHN THOMAS HART who was born in Kates Hill, Dudley on 25 February 1850. He married Hannah Smart in Dudley in 1873. The 1881 Wolverhampton Census states he was aged 31, employed as a locomotive engine fitter and lived at 107 Stafford Road. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as aged 41, residing at 79 Craven Street, Chapelfields and employed as a manager at a bicycle works. By 1901 he had left Coventry and resided at Crabbs Cross, near Redditch. The 1911 Census shows the Hart’s were living at 187 Evesham Road, Upper Ipsley. John was working as a bicycle and motor fitter. He died aged 70 in 1921.
Possibly: JOB HART who was born in Braunston, Northamptonshire in 1832. He married Catherine Smith in Meriden in 1859. She died two years later aged just 22. Job married Jessica Coleman at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields, Coventry on 20 December 1865. The 1891 Coventry Census lists Job as living at 49 Cox Street. He was aged 58 and employed as a builder/contractor. Job died aged 69 in Coventry on 26 July 1900.
W. HART (FINANCIAL SECRETARY/TREASURER)
Possibly WILLIAM WALTER HART who was born in Coventry in 1852. He married Jane Louisa Laband in Coventry in 1875. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he was living at 2 Weston Street. He was 39 years old and employed as a printer. William was listed as an agent for the Pearl Life Assurance Company in 1896. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms he resided at 46 Swanswell Street, Hillfields and was working as a letterpress printer. William died aged 60 in Coventry in 1913.
Possibly WALTER E. HART who was born in Coventry in 1869. He was the son of Job Hart. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was working as a builder’s foreman and living at the family home, 49 Cox Street. Walter married Amy Harper at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry on 10 June 1896. The 1901 Coventry Census lists the couple as residing at 117 Cox Street. Walter was aged 31 and employed as a builder’s clerk. He died aged 62 in Kenilworth on 14 April 1931.
FREDERICK BARNETT (AUDITOR/COMMITTEE)
Frederick was born in Coventry in 1852. The 1861 Coventry Census indicates he resided in Far Gosford Street, Hillfields with his parents, Frederick senior and Hannah. He was 9 years old and a scholar. The 1871 Coventry Census lists him as living at 43 Gilbert Street, Hillfields. He was aged 18 and worked as an elastic web weaver. He married Maria Twycross at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 15 October 1871. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he resided at 33 Aylesford Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle pressman. The 1895 Coventry Burgess Roll confirms Frederick lived at 33 Aylesford Street, along with Frank Moseley (number 38), the former Singers F.C. player. Frederick died aged 46 in Coventry on 6 March 1897.
OLIVER PLUMMER (COMMITTEE)
Oliver was born in Coventry in 1855. He married Emily Stanley at Saint Michael’s Church, Coventry on 6 February 1876. The 1881 Coventry Census lists him as residing at Court 1, 11 Jordan Well, city centre. He was 25 years old and worked as a watchmaker. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he had moved to Court 1, 4 Gosford Street, Hillfields. At this time the watch trade was declining and this was probably the reason why he secured employment as a machinist in the city’s growing bicycle industry. The 1911 Coventry Census lists him as living at 4 Read Street, Hillfields. He was 55 years old and working as a bicycle machinist at the Singer Factory. The 1921 Coventry Census confirms he was still employed at the Singer Canterbury Street Works and had moved to 13 Brook Street, Hillfields. Oliver died aged 72 in Coventry in 1928.
J. MITCHELL (COMMITTEE)
Possibly John Mitchell who was born in Warwick in 1860. He married Lucy Warden at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 28 February 1885. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 13 Cox Street. He was 29 years old and employed as a gas engine driver. In 1901 he was living at 39 Saint Peter Street, Hillfields. The 1911Coventry Census indicates he resided at 10 Colchester Street, Hillfields and was employed as a gas engine driver at a bicycle manufacturer. He died aged 75 in Coventry in 1935.
Possibly James Dundas Mitchell who was born in Dundee, Scotland on 12 February 1857. He married Florence May Turley at Saint Paul’s Church, Hammersmith, London on 21 December 1882. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 17 Cherry Street. He was 34 years old and employed as a shorthand reporter. The Mitchell family had left this address by 1892 and according to the 1901 Census he had moved to London. Between 1911 and 1939 he lived in Islington, working as a journalist and later a solicitors clerk. He died aged 83 in Brentford in 1940.
ALFRED GEORGE SIDWELL (COMMITTEE)
Alfred was born in Coventry in 1859. He was a very keen cyclist and often entered competition races. A race event was organised by the Coventry Star Bicycle Club on 14 June 1879. The event took place at the Midland Counties Bicycle & Athletic Ground at Stivichall. Alfred entered the One Mile Handicapped Race and won Heat 5, only to be disqualified later. It was judged he had overtaken his rival, A. McNicholl, by forcing his opponent onto the inner grass area of the track. He also entered the Two Mile Handicap Race and came fourth in the Final. Alfred married Sarah Brown Cluley at Saint Mark’s Church, Coventry on 14 October 1880. The 1881 Coventry Census lists the couple as residing at 58 Alma Street, Hillfields. Alfred was 21 years old and employed as a bicycle fitter. He was a member of the Singers Cycling Club and the Singer Picnic Committee. The1891 Coventry Census indicates the Sidwell’s lived at 62 Vine Street, Hillfields and Alfred was working as an engine fitter. At this time he was a member of the Liberal Association for Gosford Street Ward. In 1897 he was vice captain of the Coventry Cross Cycling Club. Sarah Sidwell died on 5 November 1915. Alfred married Catherine Sawbridge in Coventry the following year. The 1921 Coventry Census lists them as residing at 10 Cherry Street and by now Alfred had become an invalid. He died aged 64 in Coventry in 1924. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 6 October.
MARK DANIELS (COMMITTEE)
Mark was born at Court 3, 16 East Street, Hillfields on 2 June 1866. He became an honorary member of Singers F.C. at the AGM held on 20 July 1889. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 24 Vernon Street, Hillfields. He was 24 years old and employed as a bicycle machinist. He married Ellen Farmer at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on 16 April 1892. The 1921 Coventry Census indicates the Daniels family lived at 80 Saint George’s Road, Gosford Green. Mark was employed as a fitter at Lea Francis Limited, motorcycle manufacturers based in Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. Mark and Ellen celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary on 16 April 1952. They were featured in an article in the Coventry Evening Telegraph the following day. The article confirmed Mark was a trainer for Singers F.C. at some point. When interviewed he was asked if he still attended matches at Highfield Road, to which he replied: “practically every week”. Mark died aged 93 at home on 27 May 1960.
RICHARD GREAVES (COMMITTEE)
Richard was born in Nottingham in 1871. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was a lodger at 22 Hope Street, Spon End, the residence of Elizabeth Mills. He was aged 20 and was working as a bicycle fitter. In 1893 he was living at 1 Florence Cottages, Read Street, Hillfields. When he was elected to the Committee he resided at 56 Grove Terrace, Nicholls Street, Hillfields, a short distance from the Stoke Road Ground. Richard married Kate Cadman in Foleshill in 1895. The 1901 Coventry Census lists them as living at 546 Stoney Stanton Road. He was employed as a toolmaker/machine fitter. The Greaves family emigrated to Australia sometime prior to the outbreak of World War One in 1914. This is confirmed by the fact Richard signed army forms for his son to join the Australian Army in 1915. Ernest Greaves joined the Australian Imperial Force on 6 July and thankfully came through the war unscathed. Richard died aged 70 at Footscray, Victoria on 2 April 1941. He was interred at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Greater Dandenong City, Victoria.
JOHN DODD (COMMITTEE)
Possibly JOHN DODD who was born in Coventry in 1854. He married Esther Ann Leather at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 23 June 1878. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at Court 48, 8 Spon Street, Spon End. He was aged 37 and worked as a bicycle machinist. By 1901 he had moved to 38 Stockton Road, Hillfields, where he lived for over ten years. The 1911 Coventry Census describes his occupation as being a storekeeper-bicycle works. John died aged 66 in Coventry in 1920. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 22 July.
Possibly JOHN DODD who was born in Coventry in 1833. He married Emma Chatwyn at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 26 September 1853. Emma died aged 55 in Coventry in 1888. His second marriage was to Elizabeth Arnold in Coventry the following year. The 1891 Coventry Census shows the Dodd’s residing at 32 Henry Street. John was employed as a brushmaker. The 1911 Coventry Census indicates he was a widower aged 78 living at 122 Spon Street, Spon End, the residence of Joseph O’Neil, his son-in-law. No other details are known.
HARRY THOMPSON (COMMITTEE)
Harry was born in Birmingham in 1857. He married Ellen Spink at Saint Bartholomew’s Church, Birmingham on 3 October 1881. He was 24 years old and worked at a brass foundry. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 19 Aylesford Street, Hillfields and was employed as a bicycle fitter. Fellow committee member William Henry Spink was lodging with the Thompson’s. According to the 1901 Coventry Census the Thompson’s resided at 52 Bradford Street, Hillfields. They were at this address for at least ten years. The 1939 England & Wales Register lists Ellen Thompson (widower) as living at 79 Wyley Road, Radford, the residence of her son, Arthur Harry Thompson. No further details are known.
JOHN RICHARD CROOK (COMMITTEE)
John was born in Islington, London in 1865. He married Jane Snape in Coventry in 1886. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 18 Leigh Street, Hillfields. He was 26 Years old and worked as a watchmaker. By 1901 the Crook’s had moved to 46 Primrose Hill Street, Hillfields. They later resided at 18 Gresham Street, Middle Stoke, where they stayed for at least ten years. In 1902 John was Chairman of the CCFC Executive Committee and in that capacity attended a meeting held at the Kings Head Hotel, Broadgate on 12 May. The meeting was chaired by H.W. Loasby. Those present discussed the possibility of converting Coventry City F.C. into a limited liability company. George Maley, who was fully supportive of the conversion and involved in publicising the meeting, explained what would be involved. He was supported by William J. Penn, proprietor of the club’s headquarters, the Binley Oak public house, 74 Payne’s Lane, Hillfields. Maley said the club’s liabilities currently stood at £540, a considerable amount in those days. He also stated some creditors would take up shares to the value of £229, which would leave liabilities of £311. Coventry Chief of Police, Charles Christopher Charsley, sent a letter of support to Maley, who read it out. Here is an extract: “The formation of your club into a limited liability company is fraught with many difficulties, but where funds are scarce, players disheartened and public enthusiasm is lacking, it seems to me the only course with any hope of success open to your committee”. Maley then told the audience he had obtained from G.B. Ramsay, the Aston Villa Secretary, a copy of their Prospectus when that club became a limited liability company in 1896. John Crook then gave details of the club’s assets: Grand Stand £220, Dressing Rooms £30, Roller & Lawn Mower £30, Fencing £75, Ropes & Stakes £10 and football kit £10. He also said Ground Levelling cost £150 and Ground Banking around the pitch £75 (gave supporters an elevated view). Crook confirmed the club had been promised a renewal of the ground Lease. He also said CCFC benefitted from sub-letting the ground which generated approximately £64 to £70 income per annum. William Baker suggested £1 shares might be purchased by working class supporters. Former Singers F.C. goalkeeping legend Edwin Kirk made a short speech casting doubt on the proposed conversion. Henry Ainsworth Jackson, who would later become a founder member of the Coventry City Supporters Club in 1920, also had his concerns. He suggested the club should make enquiries as to the terms for renting the Butts Ground in Spon End. Benjamin Newall, CCFC Secretary, supported the idea of conversion as he could see the advantage of an immediate influx of money, some of which could be used for further ground improvements and possibly improving the team. A motion proposed by William J. Penn was passed by 31 votes to 12. The motion called for the conversion of the club into a limited liability company and a committee of seven people to be appointed to gather all information required. The seven-man committee were: George Maley, Councillor Halliwell, William Penn, T. Gibbons, James Stone, Henry Ainsworth Jackson and Benjamin Newall. They reported their findings at a future meeting which resulted in the conversion idea being abandoned. Coventry City F.C. finally converted to a limited liability company on 24 July 1907, with a capital of £2,000 divided into 5 shilling (25p) shares. It appears John Crook’s entire working career was spent in the watchmaking industry. In 1921 he was employed at Rotherham & Sons Limited, Spon Street. John died aged 75 in Surrey in 1940.
WILLIAM HENRY SPINK (COMMITTEE)
William was born in Nechells, Birmingham on 26 April 1873. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was living at 19 Aylesford Street, Hillfields. He was 17 years old and employed as a bicycle fitter. His fellow committee member Harry Thompson also lodged at the house. By 1895 he had moved back to Birmingham and married Florence Emily Slaughter on 14 July, at Saint Savior’s Church, Saltley. William resided in Bordesley Green Road at the time of his marriage. The 1911 Birmingham Census lists him as living at 34 Freeman Road, Aston. He was 38 years old and worked as a iron die machinist at a motor works. According to the 1921 Birmingham Census he had moved to 15 Trevor Street and was employed as a coach fitter at the Midland Wagon & Carriage Works. The 1939 England & Wales Census confirms he was still living in Trevor Street, but now employed as a labourer at a motor works. William died aged 70 in Birmingham and was interred at Yardley Cemetery.
1895
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: 27 JUNE (VENUE UNKNOWN)
The AGM was held on 27 June (venue unknown). It was chaired by J. Biggs. Joe Collins (Secretary) gave his financial report and informed those present there was a deficit of almost £59. Total income for the past year amounted to just over £222 and expenditure totalled just over £281. The inaugural season in the Birmingham & District League had been a tough one. The First Team played 30 league matches, won 7, drew 5 and lost 18, achieving 19 points. They scored 46 goals and conceded 91. They finished 4th from bottom in the league table. J. Biggs commented: “I think that, taking all things into consideration, Coventry has made its mark in association football throughout the country”. The Reserve Team competed in the North Warwickshire League. They played 23 games, won 13, drew 4 and lost 6, amassing 30 points. It was confirmed several local players had signed for Singers. They were hoped to be seen “wearing the reds” in the future, a reference to the red & black shirts worn by the First Team. Albert Alldrick was elected First Team captain and Thomas Bird vice-captain. Joseph Collins stepped down as Secretary and was replaced by Thomas Cashmore. John Dodd was elected Assistant Secretary. J. Lee took the position of Treasurer. The question of a possible amalgamation with Rudge Football Club was considered. It was confirmed a meeting of the two clubs committees had been arranged where financial statements would be submitted. The suggestion of amalgamation was proposed by Rudge who sent a special representative to take part in initial talks. Rudge suggested they would like to use the Stoke Road Ground on alternate Saturdays, when the Vocalists had an away fixture. The following officers were elected: President – George Singer. Vice Presidents – William Ballantine, James Stringer, John Gulson, James Farish, Charles Haywood (junior), Alfred Drinkwater, Thomas Owen, William Calcott, Charles Murray, Thomas Macklin, Enoch West, Walter Hewitt, Richard Lea, George Streetly, Harry Hornsby, James Morgan, T. Taylor, W. Mills and J. Hart. Auditors – Thomas Dodd and Joseph Collins. Committee members – Joseph Briggs, Charles Wright, Oliver Plummer, Charles Anstey, Joseph Collins, John Windridge, John Crooke, Alfred Morton, Herbert Young, Frederick Barnett, Frederick Cannings, Mark Daniels, George Dorrell, John Dodd, Francis Moseley, Thomas Dodd, F. Price, H. Bird, Knibbs, Pratley, Payne.
NEW OFFICIALS
THOMAS DODD (COMMITTEE)
Thomas was the son of John Dodd who was possibly a committee member in 1894. Thomas was born in Coventry in 1860. He acquired Freeman of the City status in 1882. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he resided at 35 Jenner Street. He was 30 years old and employed as a watch finisher, an occupation he retained for the whole of his working career. He married Annie White on Christmas Day 1892 at Saint Mark’s Church, Coventry. In 1894 Thomas lived at 24 Howard Street, Hillfields. His next door neighbour at number 25 was Thomas Bird, the well-known Singers F.C. captain of the famous “Little Blackbirds” team. Annie died aged 41 in 1899. Thomas’s second marriage was to Agnes Hobbins at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry on 12 September 1900. The couple lived at 58 Mount Street, Chapelfields, a district well-known for watchmaking. Sadly, Agnes Dodd died aged 33 in 1902. The 1911 Coventry Census indicates Thomas was lodging with Christopher Dodd, his brother, at 48 Hartlepool Road, Hillfields. Thomas died aged 62 in Coventry in 1923.
CHARLES HENRY ANSTEY (COMMITTEE)
Charles was born in Coventry in 1862. The 1881 Coventry Census indicates he was living at 6 Portland Terrace, Lower Ford Street, Hillfields. He was 17 years old and worked as a mechanic’s clerk. He married Fanny Louisa Morley at Holy Trinity Church, Coventry on 25 May 1885. Between 1891 and 1901 he resided at 28 Gas Street, Spon End and was employed as a bicycle/iron & steel turner. In 1895 Charles was a member of the Singers Cycling Club and won a prize for his excellent record for attending races. The 1911 Coventry Census lists him as living at 55 Middleborough Road, Radford, near Bablake School. He was working as a fitter/turner at a motor works. In 1921 he was still at the same address and was employed as a brass fitter (motor accessories) at Rotherham & Sons Limited in Spon Street. Charles died aged 80 in Coventry in 1942. His funeral was held on 7 September (location unknown).
JOHN WINDRIDGE (COMMITTEE)
John was born in Foleshill in 1874. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 17A Weston Street. He was 17 years old and worked as a bicycle machinist. He married Harriet Haughton at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on 27 February 1897. At the time of his marriage he lived at 7 Queen Street, Hillfields. The 1911 Coventry Census indicates he resided at 49 Sparkbrook Street, Hillfields, from which he operated a shop selling groceries and general provisions. John died aged 41 in Coventry on 2 October 1914.
MORTON (COMMITTEE)
Possibly JOHN MORTON.
John Morton was born in Coventry on 27 November 1836. He married Emma Barfoot in Coventry in 1864. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he lived at 1 Barras Hill Terrace, Radford Road. He was 53 years old and owned John Morton & Sons Limited, a coal merchant’s business based at the Canal Wharf, which he formed two years after his marriage. He was a prominent member of the city council, serving for 17 years, and eventually acquired Alderman status. He would have known George Singer extremely well in this capacity. He was a member of the Coventry Liberal Party for many years. John died at home aged 63 on 14 January 1900. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
Possibly ALFRED JOHN MORTON.
Alfred John Morton was the eldest son of John Morton. He was born in Coventry circa 1867. He married Amy Elizabeth Player at the Queen’s Road Chapel, Coventry on 17 September 1891. Earlier that year he had acquired Freeman of the City status. In 1895 the Morton family lived at 20 Catherine Street, Hillfields. Alfred became a partner in the family firm in 1897. In 1901 the company diversified by becoming storage contractors and offering a furniture removal service. The core business remained as coal merchants. At this time Alfred and his family resided at 35 Chester Street, Spon End. He eventually became managing director and his son, Jack Morton, played a leading role in growing the company, particularly regarding road transport activities. Jack Morton was a well-known local sportsman who claimed in an interview (Coventry Herald 14/5/1938) to be the only player to play cricket and rugby football for Warwickshire. Alfred was also a competent cricketer and rugby union player. The Coventry & Arley Railway Bill was the subject of a hearing held at the House of Commons Parliamentary Committee Room Number 8 on 25 March 1903. The Midland Railway Company supported the Bill which would introduce a new railway line from Arley to Coventry. This would greatly assist existing collieries regarding transportation and encourage new coal mines to be developed. Alfred testified at the hearing in support of the Bill stating existing wharfs were awkward to negotiate. After much deliberation the Bill was rejected, most likely due to cost and a disagreement regarding the safety aspect of the required track gradients to deliver the project. Alfred died aged 53 in Kenilworth in 1920.
Possibly PERCY B. MORTON.
Percy was the youngest son of John Morton. He was born in Coventry circa 1873.
H. YOUNG (COMMITTEE)
Possibly Herbert Alfred Young who was born in Coventry on 16 September 1869. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was living at 16 Priory Street, city centre. He was 21 years old and worked as a bicycle machinist, possibly at Young Brothers Bicycle Manufacturers, who were based at 13 Priory Street. The 1895 Coventry Burgess Roll states he resided at 8 Primrose Hill Street, Hillfields. Herbert married Annie Gibson in Bolton in 1898. It appears the married couple left Coventry soon after and moved to Wigan. The 1901 Wigan Census lists them as residing at 134 Frog Lane. Herbert was aged 31 and operated his own bicycle dealership from those premises. Ten years later he had changed his business dealings by becoming a retailer in glass and china. By 1921 the Young’s had moved to Blackpool. Herbert died aged 82 in Blackpool on 18 March 1952.
Possibly Henry Young who was born in Coventry in 1849. He married Jane Hill in Coventry on 12 June 1871. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 16 Chauntry Place, Hillfields. He was aged 42 and employed as a watch motioner. He was still living in Chauntry Place in 1901, but was now working as a storekeeper at an iron foundry. This may have been at the nearby Bretts Stamping Company situated on the junction of Harnall Lane and Stoney Stanton Road. Henry died aged 66 in Coventry in 1916.
H. BIRD (COMMITTEE)
HARRY PARKER BIRD (1st): There is strong circumstantial evidence that this is Lionel Bird’s great-grandfather, Harry Parker Bird (1st), born in Coventry on 27 March 1869. He married Clara Emily Taylor at Coventry Registry Office on 18 November 1893. He was 23 years old and employed as a bicycle machinist. Harry lived in South Street, Hillfields, a short distance from Singers’ Stoke Road Ground. In 1896 the Bird family resided at 9 All Saints Lane, Hillfields and remained there for at least the next five years. His son, Harry Parker Bird (2nd) was born on 3 June 1898 at the family home. The 1921 Coventry Census lists him as living at Court 2, 5 King William Street, Hillfields. He was 23 years old and worked as a labourer at the Singer Motor Company, Canterbury Street, Hillfields. Lionel Bird interviewed Samantha Turbitt (nee Bird), his cousin, on 29 September 2025. Talking about her father, Raymond Bird (Lionel’s uncle), she said: “My dad told me that his father, Harry Parker Bird (2nd) worked at the Singer Factory and supported Coventry City F.C. He also said his father often talked about Singers F.C.”. Even today, to some extent. a father might influence his son/daughter to support a football club to continue the family connection. This certainly is the case with this branch of the Bird family as three generations have done so. Harry Parker Bird (1st) died aged 42 in 1911. He was interred in Coventry Cemetery on 2 August. Two questions remain unanswered. Did he work at the Singer Factory and help his son obtain employment there? Did he support Singers F.C. and influence his son to do likewise?
Other possibilities:
HENRY ALFRED BIRD: He was born in Radford, Warwickshire in 1851. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he was aged 40 and the licensee of the Hertford Arms public house, 116 Far Gosford Street. By 1901 he had retired from the pub trade and resided in Dallisford, Warwickshire. He died aged 73 in Wellsbourne on 14 May 1924.
HERBERT BIRD: He was born in Brandon, Warwickshire in 1859. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living at 17 Hertford Terrace, Queens Road, Spon End. He was 32 years old and employed as an “engineer’s fitter/turner”. He had left Hertford Terrace by 1894. The 1901 Census confirms he was a visitor to Harry L. Healy’s residence, 49 Hawarden Street, Walthamstow, Essex. Herbert eventually moved to Hornsey in Essex. He died aged 66 in Essex in 1924.
HENRY JAMES BIRD: He was born in Longford in 1849. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as living in North Street, Upper Stoke. He was aged 41 and employed as a baker. He died at home aged 67 on 18 November 1916.
HENRY BIRD: A resident of South Street, Hillfields in 1894. He was employed as a machine turner and occupied the premises as a tenant.
MORTON (COMMITTEE)
Possibly JOHN MORTON. John was born in Coventry on 27 November 1836. He married Emma Barfoot in Coventry in 1864. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he lived at 1 Barrs Hill Terrace, Radford Road. He was 53 years old and owned John Morton & Sons Limited, a coal merchants business based at the Canal Wharf, which he established two years after his marriage. He was a prominent member of the city council, serving for 17 years and eventually acquired Alderman status. John would have known George Singer very well in this capacity. He was a member of the Coventry Liberal Party for many years and became President of the organisation in 1894, a position he held until his death. John died at home aged 63 on 14 January 1900. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery four days later.
Possibly PERCY BARFOOT MORTON.
Percy was born in Coventry on 15 May 1873. He was the youngest son of John Morton. In 1891 he was 17 years old and employed as a bicycle turner, residing at the family home, 1 Barrs Hill Terrace. At some point he changed his profession and became an electrician. The 1901 Hunslet Census indicates he was a lodger at John Snowdon’s residence, 2 Vincent Place. Percy married Jenny Foxton Snowdon in Hunslet in 1902. She was the daughter of John Snowdon. By 1921 Percy had become an electrical engineer employed at the Crown Point Power Station in Leeds. He died aged 67 on 9 February 1940. At the time of his death he was living at 62 Tempest Road, Beeston, Leeds.
1896
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: WHITE LION HOTEL, GOSFORD GREEN 16 MAY
The AGM was held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 16 May. Thomas Henry Harris chaired the meeting. Thomas Cashmore (Secretary) presented his report which confirmed the team had played 43 matches, won 18, drawn 4, lost 21, scored 74 goals and conceded 84. The Vocalists reached the 3rd Qualifying Round of the F.A. Cup for the first time having beaten Kidderminster Harriers F.C. 2-1, in a replay held at the Stoke Road Ground. This was a major achievement despite losing 2-0 against Burton Swifts F.C. in the third round home tie. Cashmore said the Balance Sheet showed total income of just under £440 and after expenses there was a balance of just over £44 in hand. A lengthy discussion took place regarding the concept of forming a Coventry City club. Cashmore told those present: “In my opinion we could not get a town’s team in Coventry that would be good enough without raising at least £500 and then we would want a working capital”. Joseph Briggs referred to the attendance at this meeting and the small number of people who went to another meeting held a week ago, which met to consider this issue. He believed there was not the level of support being shown by the general public to warrant the formation of a “town club”. T. Dodd proposed a resolution that the Singers F.C. name should be retained. This was seconded by Thomas Harris. The resolution was carried with a unanimous vote. George Singer was re-elected as President. No details were reported by the local press regarding elected Vice-Presidents. The following were elected as members of the Committee: William Arnett, Joseph Briggs, Charles Wright, Thomas Yardley, William Hayfield, Charles Anstey, Oliver Plummer, John Gee, Joseph Whitehouse, W. Elkington,T. Dodd, J. Dodd, F. Price, J. Lee, R. Gibbs. Auditors: Charles Wright and W. Elkington. Treasurer: J. Lee. Secretary: Thomas Cashmore. Assistant Secretary: T. Dodd.
NEW OFFICIALS
W. ELKINGTON (COMMITTEE)
Possibly: WILLIAM ELKINGTON who was born in Coventry in 1865. The 1891 Coventry Census shows he lived at 72 Vine Street, Hillfields. He was 26 years old and worked as a bicycle fitter. William married Ann Stevenson at Saint George’s Church, Nottingham on 1 August 1898. The 1911 Coventry Census lists the Elkington’s as residing at 103 Raglan Street, Hillfields. These premises contained a tobacconist shop as well as living quarters. William was still employed as a bicycle fitter. He died aged 45 in 1911 and was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 20 April.
Possibly WALTER ELKINGTON who was born in Coventry in 1850. He married Selina Gilbert in Coventry twenty years later. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates the Elkington’s resided at 49 Upper Nelson Street. Walter was 40 years old and employed as a coal merchant. By 1911 he had moved to 80 Adelaide Street, Hillfields. No further details are known.
F. PRICE (COMMITTEE)
Possibly ALFRED ALBERT PRICE (FRED) who was born in Gloucester in 1862. He married Martha Ann Garfield at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields, Coventry on 4 May 1889. At the time of his marriage he resided in Winchester Street, Hillfields. The 1891 Coventry Census shows the married couple lived at 17 Spring Street, Hillfields. Alfred was 29 years old and worked as a bicycle machinist. The 1911 Coventry Census lists him as a widower who resided at 23 Hood Street, Hillfields. He was still employed in the bicycle industry. The 1921 Coventry Census confirms he still lived in Hood Street but was now an unemployed machinist. Alfred’s previous employment was at the Hotchkiss Factory (Artillery Manufacturers) situated in Gosford Street, a company which produced munitions during the First World War. Alfred died aged 69 in Coventry in 1932 and was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 15 August.
THOMAS SAMUEL YARDLEY (COMMITTEE)
Thomas was born in Birmingham in 1861. He married Alice Lloyd at Saint John’s Church, Wolverhampton on 19 September 1880. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates the married couple resided at 39 Colchester Street, Hillfields. Thomas was 30 years old and employed as a bicycle fitter. The 1895 Burgess Roll confirms Thomas Cashmore, the Singers F.C. player, was a nearby neighbour who lived at 5 Ashleigh Terrace, Colchester Street. By 1901 he had formed his own bicycle manufacturing business which may have operated from premises contained within his residence, this being 1 Salisbury Terrace, London Road, Whitley. It appears the business did not survive very long. The 1911 Coventry Census lists Thomas as a licensed victualler at the Jolly Weavers public house, 16 Silver Street, city centre. Records indicate he acquired the licence of the Jolly Weavers in February 1902 when it was transferred from Arthur Asbury. His career as a publican ended on 11 February 1914 when the licence of the Jolly Weavers was transferred to William Henry Cramp. The 1921 Coventry Census shows Thomas resided at 78 London Road. He was 60 years old and unemployed. He had previously worked as a fitter at the Armstrong Siddeley Works, Parkside. The 1924 Kelly’s Directory indicates he operated a confectionery shop from his London Road premises. Thomas died aged 81 in Coventry on 19 October 1942.
WILLIAM HENRY HAYFIELD (COMMITTEE)
William was born in Hoxton, London on 23 April 1868. He married Jane Archer at Saint Peter’s Church, Hillfields on 28 April 1901. Prior to his marriage he was a lodger at John Patrick’s residence, 14 Lansdowne Street, Hillfields. The 1911 Coventry Census shows the Hayfield’s lived at 5 Ryley Street, just off Hill Street in the city centre. William was 44 years old and worked as a bicycle maker/machinist. By 1921 he had become an engine fitter and was employed by the Clarke Clewley Company at their Globe Works situated in Well Street, just off Corporation Street, city centre. Between 1921 and 1939 William lived in Lamb Street, just off Bishop Street, city centre. The 1939 England & Wales Register states he was a retired general labourer. William died aged 82 in Nuneaton in 1950.
WILLIAM EDWARD ARNETT (COMMITTEE)
William was born in Coventry in 1860. He married Emma Sprayson on Christmas Day 1880 at Saint Thomas’s Church, Coventry. The 1891 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 4 Day’s Lane, Hillfields. He was 30 years old and was employed as a bicycle machinist. The 1896 Coventry Directory indicates he had moved to 21B Days Lane. Co-incidentally, when Willie Stanley and his family came back to Coventry from Walsall circa 1900, they moved into 4 Day’s Lane. Therefore, there is a possibility Willie and William knew each other as they probably lived in the same street at this time. The 1911 Coventry Census lists William as a widower aged 50 residing at 6 St. Michael’s Road, Middle Stoke. He was a motor crankshaft worker employed at the Humber Company, Humber Road. By 1921 he had moved back to Hillfields, living at 75 Canterbury Street. He was employed as a bicycle finisher at the Premier Bicycle Company based Read Street, Hillfields. William died aged 75 in Coventry in 1935. He was interred at Coventry Cemetery on 26 October.
JOHN HENRY GEE (COMMITTEE)
John was born in Rugeley, Staffordshire on 7 December 1859. He married Ellen Ollive at Saint George’s Church, Hanover Square, London in 1883. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates he was living at 10 Bradford Street, Hillfields. He was 30 years old and was employed as a bicycle fitter. He later worked as an engine fitter. The Gee’s emigrated to America in 1905. The 1910 USA Census lists them as residing at Yakima Avenue, King, Washington D.C. John was employed as a shipbuilding machinist. Between 1920 and 1940 he lived in California, first in Almeda and then Fresno. The 1930 USA Census indicates he was a widower. John died aged 82 in Almeda on 3 August 1942.
R. GIBBS (COMMITTEE)
Possibly Richard Gibbs who was born in Warwick circa 1852. He married Jemmima Abbotts in Foleshill in 1881. According to the 1891 Coventry Census he resided in Milton Street, Upper Stoke. He was aged 39 and worked as a blacksmith. By 1901 he had formed his own bicycle manufacturing business based at 531 Stoney Stanton Road. He later changed the business function to concentrate on repairs to bicycles and motorcycles. Jemima Gibbs died aged 62 in Coventry in 1909. Richard’s second marriage was to Sarah Fanny Alton, the wedding taking place in Leicester in 1918. Richard died aged 81 in Coventry on 26 February 1934.
Possibly Robert William Gibbs who was born in Manchester in 1868. He married Alice Maud Crook in Coventry in 1890. The 1891 Coventry Census indicates the couple lived at Court 38, 3 Gosford Street, Hillfields. Robert worked as a bicycle machinist. The marriage was an unhappy one which led to divorce in April 1900. In 1901 Robert was a boarder at George Smith’s residence, 92 Norfolk Street, Leicester. He was employed as a sewing machine mechanic. He continued in this occupation until he retired. The 1921 Leicester Census lists him as living in Spa Lane, Hinckley. He was employed at Simkins Sons & Emery Limited based in Bond Street, Hinckley. Robert died aged 91 in Hinckley on 21 October 1959.
Possibly Robert B. Gibbs who was born in Bedworth in 1876. According to the 1891 Coventry Census he resided at 13 Vine Street, Hillfields. He was aged 15 and worked as a silk weaver. The 1898 Coventry Directory shows he lived at 12 East Street, Hillfields but had left this property by 1901. No other details are known.
1897
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: SPITTLEMOORE INN, HILLFIELDS 7 JUNE
The AGM was held at the Spittlemore Inn, Lower Ford Street, Hillfields on 7 June. Thomas Harris chaired the meeting. Thomas Cashmore (Secretary) presented his Financial Report which included several items regarding the Balance Sheet. Total receipts amounted to £388, 15 shillings & threepence. This included gate receipts of £273, 11 shillings & elevenpence and subscription payments of £53, 15 shillings. Expenditure amounted to £383, 9 shillings & threepence. Some of the costs incurred were: Wages £184, 17 shillings & tenpence, Equipment such as Jerseys/Boots/Balls/Shinpads £22, 7 shillings & twopence, Rent £42, 5 shillings & sevenpence and Referees £11, 9 shillings & ninepence. A small profit of £5 and six shillings was declared. The 5th Earl of Warwick, Francis Richard Charles Guy Greville and George Singer were elected Joint Presidents. A long list of Vice Presidents were also appointed but no details were reported by the local press. Long-serving Jonathan Biggs was elected a life member of the club. A Committee of 16 members were elected: Oliver Plummer, William Anstey, Benjamin Newall, Henry Dickinson, Edwin Kirk, J. Wright, W. Elkington, Mr. Rollason, Mr. Arnett, Mr. Dodd, Mr. Price, Mr. Gibbs, Mr. Hussey, Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Harryman and Mr. Carver. Also elected were – Auditors: Charles Wright and W. Elkington, Treasurer: J. Lee, Secretary: Thomas Cashmore and Assistant Secretary: J. Dodd. Thomas Harris expressed his desire for the club to build a covered stand at the ground. This received substantial support from those present.
NEW OFFICIALS
FRANCIS RICHARD CHARLES GUY GREVILLE – 5TH EARL OF WARWICK (JOINT PRESIDENT)
He was born in London on 9 February 1853. He was educated at Eton College and Christ Church, Oxford. Francis was appointed to the rank of Captain in the Warwickshire Yeomanry on 26 August 1876. He married Frances Evelyn Maynard at Westminster Abbey on 30 April 1881. Between 1879 and 1885 he was a Member of Parliament for Somerset East. In 1888 he was elected MP for Colchester and served in that capacity until 1892. In 1896 he was Chairman of the Singer Company whilst George Singer fulfilled the role of Managing Director. He served as Mayor of Warwick in 1902. Francis was a Colonel in the Essex Regiment in 1903 and he is listed in the November 1914 British Army Records under that rank. He was a senior Freemason associated with the United Grand Lodge of England and eventually became the Deputy Grand Master. He was also a member of the Ancient Order of Druids. In August 1905 he was one of the British aristocratic members of the AOD who participated in the first ceremony held at Stonehenge. He served as Lord-Lieutenant of Essex from 1901 to 1919. Francis died aged 70 at Cliffe House, Beer, Devon on 15 January 1924. He was interred at Saint Mary’s Collegiate Church, Warwick.
J. WRIGHT (COMMITTEE)
Possibly any of the following who lived in Coventry between 1891 and 1896:
James Wright, 8 Hertford Square, city centre.
James Wright, 21 Hertford Place, city centre.
James Wright, 40 Albion Street.
Joseph Wright 162A Spon Street, Spon End.
Jonathan Wright, 23 Spencer Street.
Jonathan Wright, 9 Adelaide Street, Sidwell Buildings, Hillfields.
James Wright, 143 Eagle Street.
Jonathan Wright, 4 Yardley Street, Hillfields.
James Wright, 7 East Street, Hillfields.
Jonathan Wright, 92 Far Gosford Street, Hillfields.
J. Wright, 89 Gosford Street, Hillfields.
BENJAMIN ERNEST NEWALL (COMMITTEE)
Benjamin was born in Smethwick, Staffordshire on 15 October 1873. The 1891 Smethwick Census shows he resided at 73 Price Street, Harborne. He was 17 years old and worked as a coach axle turner. He played for Singers F.C. between 1894 and 1896. His brother, William Arthur, joined the club prior to the 1897/1898 season and was appointed the first captain of Coventry City F.C. in September 1898. Benjamin married Nellie Louise Hopper in Coventry on 5 November 1898. At the time of his marriage he resided at 7 Highfield Road, Hillfields. He was elected Secretary of CCFC at the AGM held on 31 August 1900. In 1901 he was living at 56 Oxford Street, Hillfields. He was aged 27 and employed as a motor car fitter. He resigned from his position with the club in June 1902 and was replaced by Michael O’Shea. Benjamin qualified as a referee and served the local leagues. The 1911 Coventry Census lists him as residing at 126 Widdrington Road, Radford. Benjamin died aged 73 at home, 23 Middlemarch Road, Radford on 7 October 1947.
HENRY HUBERT DICKINSON (COMMITTEE)
He was born in Halifax, Yorkshire in 1861. He married Ada Lake at Christ Church, Skipton, Yorkshire on 9 August 1886. Exactly when he came to Coventry is unknown but he is listed in the 1896 Coventry Directory as residing at 12 Britannia Street, Hillfields, situated on the corner of Wren Street. This was literally a “stone’s throw” away from Singers Stoke Road Ground. The 1901 Coventry Census confirms he was still at this address. He was aged 40 and employed as a journalist/author. Henry was a member of the Yorkshiremen Resident in Coventry & Warwickshire organisation. He attended their First Annual Dinner held at the White Lion Hotel, Gosford Green on 12 December 1896. He was also a member of the Coventry Liberal Party (Gosford Street Ward) and the Coventry Fire Brigade. Foleshill Great Heath F.C. held their Annual Dinner at the Angel Inn on 12 July 1899. Henry attended the event as a representative of Coventry City F.C. He made a short speech which included a tribute to J. Tasker, a member of the Foleshill club who had recently died. Tasker had previously played for Singers F.C. during the 1895-96 season, making 19 appearances and scoring 5 goals. Henry chaired a CCFC Committee Meeting held at the Binley Oak public house, Payne’s Lane on 27 July 1900. Thomas Cashmore resigned his position as Secretary at this meeting. He was replaced by Benjamin Newall. Edwin Kirk was appointed Assistant Secretary. Henry also attended a special meeting held at the Kings Head Hotel, Broadgate on 12 May 1902. Those present discussed the proposal to convert Coventry City F.C. into a limited liability company, a move which was finally achieved in 1907. The Dickinson family had left Coventry by 1911. Ada Dickinson died aged 49 in Hammersmith, London on 4 June 1914. The location of her death suggests Henry may have secured employment in London before leaving Coventry. Details relating to his death are unknown.
1898
For five years there had been extensive debate regarding the controversial proposal to change the club’s name to Coventry City Football Club. There remained a close connection to the Singer Company as most of the players and committee members were employed at the factory. When the bicycle trade was flourishing there was little difficulty in attracting good players to improve the team. However, at this time the bicycle trade was in decline, not just in Coventry, but on a national basis. This clearly impacted the football club financially and made it more difficult to attract quality players. It was quite clear the original “workshop-club” factory system used to build a strong team was failing and a new direction was required. The 9th Annual General Meeting of the Birmingham & District Football League was held in Birmingham on 26 May. Thomas Cashmore (Singers F.C. Secretary) represented the club at the meeting which was chaired by Mr. J. Whitehouse. The BDFL Committee agreed to the proposed name change subject to approval by the Football Association.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: BREWER & BAKER PUBLIC HOUSE, HILLFIELDS 15 JUNE
Singers Football Club held their AGM at the Brewer & Baker public house, East Street, Hillfields on 15 June. Harry Stevens chaired the meeting. Thomas Cashmore read his secretarial report and provided financial details regarding the Balance Sheet. The First Team played 36 matches, won 15, drew 5 and lost 16, which included cup games. They scored 59 goals and conceded 65. The Vocalists finished 7th in the league table with 29 points. A profit of £32 was declared, despite wages increasing by approximately £80 and the construction of a new grandstand had been fully financed. Cashmore paid tribute to local builder George Storer, who assisted greatly with the pitch alteration and subsequent ground improvements. He then read a letter dated 8 June 1898 which he had received from the Football Association, sent from their offices in Chancery Lane, London:
Dear Sir – My Council have considered your application for permission to change your name to Coventry City F.C. The application has been favourably considered, but it has been necessary to communicate with the Rugby Union and, therefore, you must please not make any alteration in your title until I write you definitely that you may do so.
Yours faithfully F. J. Wall (Frederick Wall F.A. Secretary).
Cashmore then told those present: “The club will have to adjourn the question of altering their title. Coventry Rugby Football Club are opposing our application, fearing it will be detrimental to their interests if the name is changed. The Football Association has set precedents on this subject which will be dangerous for them to break. I cannot understand how they propose to break them in the present case. The Coventry City Association Football Club has no desire to clash with the Coventry Rugby Football Club”. The following officers were elected: Secretary – Thomas Cashmore and Treasurer – Charles Wright. A Committee consisting of 16 members was elected with W. Harriman being appointed Chairman. First Team Captain – William Arthur Newall, Vice Captain – Joe Harris. The fixtures for the new season were published under the Singers F.C. title in the Midland Daily Telegraph on 25 June. A letter from Charles James Murray, Conservative MP for Coventry, was read out at a Committee meeting held on 20 July. George Singer had stepped down as President of the football club and Murray’s letter confirmed he would take up the vacant position.
Coventry Rugby Football Club opposed the name change based on the belief it would create a greater similarity between the two titles. There was also the fact both clubs tapped into the same common fan base. Many Coventry people interested in football followed both codes and where possible supported both teams, something which still exists today. Singers’ decision to alter its name was regarded by some people as being unsportsmanlike and not conducive to maintaining good relations between the two clubs. Prior to this the relationship had been magnanimous with a genuine feeling of mutual respect. The situation which now existed was far from satisfactory, but the football club had to act decisively. The future advancement of association football in Coventry lay in their hands. The general public was desperate to see a football club which truly represented the city of Coventry, with the financial means and ambition to place it amongst the best in the country. Finally a letter dated 11 August 1898 from the Football Association was received by Thomas Cashmore. It read:
Dear Sir – I have now pleasure in giving consent to your Club changing its title from Singers F.C. to Coventry City F.C.
Yours faithfully, F. J. Wall.
The letter was received by Cashmore on 12 August 1898 which is now regarded as the official date the name change was implemented.
George Maley had been a long-time advocate for the football club’s title to be changed to represent the city of Coventry. He wrote to the Midland Daily Telegraph in response to the news. The newspaper published his letter on 3 September which effectively was a clarion call for wealthy gentlemen to provide financial backing. He also suggested Coventry City F.C. should develop a closer relationship with the local community. Here are some extracts from the letter:
“A very big step has been taken in the right direction by the change of name adopted by our leading club, but much remains to be done before Mr. Cashmore and his colleagues place before the sport-loving people of Coventry, a team able to promote the athletic reputation of the city. There are, it appears to me, quite enough people taking a lively interest in the dribbling game in Coventry, to some day support a League team of the Second Division class. You have got to get the team before you can hope to attract the people in requisite numbers, to say nothing of the necessary outlay for ground improvements”.
“Those who run the City Club are mostly working men and although they are displaying plenty of zeal, even that will not enable them to put their hands into their pockets and draw out what is not there. I trust the gentlemen of Coventry who are interested and have the means of supplying these willing workers will see their way to do so. I appeal to those who do not take much notice of football, but have a favourable regard for the welfare of the future men of Coventry. I do not know of any place where football is taken up by local boys and youths more so than here in our own neighbourhood”.
“All versed in football matters will agree with me, the higher you go up the football ladder the more refinement you find in the play. Consequently, the better the team these youngsters have as an example, the greater good, both physically and morally, they are likely to derive from participation in the adult pastime. Anything that will draw the non-participants into the open air on a Saturday afternoon, should surely be worthy of our consideration. I think Mr. Cashmore and his Committee should go round the district for I sincerely trust they will find the response worthy of a community that has benefited so largely from the adoption of out-door recreation”.
Coventry City travelled to Shropshire on Saturday 3 September 1898 to face Wellington Town. This was the first match played under their new name. Some of the Coventry press now began to use “The Citizens” as the club’s nickname. Wellington were newcomers to the Birmingham & District League. The City players and officials departed from Coventry Railway Station at 11am. The team which participated in this historical game was: Robinson, Whitehouse, Harris, Wareham, Roberts, Bodley (junior), Edwards, Taylor, Bodley (senior), Newall and Haywood. City were 2-0 down at half-time. They eventually lost 5-0.
