Oldham Historical Research Group

Scan and page transcript from:
Historical Sketches of Oldham by Edwin Butterworth
Pub. 1856

Historical Sketches of Oldham by Edwin Butterworth

in front of an unoccupied dwelling in Yorkshire street, nearly opposite the Church, and on the site of the present Town Hall. The number of spectators asembled on the occasion was estimated to amount to 15,000. Several bands of music accompanied the processions of the members of the political unions established at Oldham, Crompton, Royton, and Chadderton, whose different stations amongst the multitude were indicated by the display of numerous banners. The proceedings commenced shortly after nine o'clock, by Joshua Milne, Esq., of High Crompton, moving the nomination of John Fielden, Esq., which was seconded by Mr. William Taylor, of Vale house, Crompton. Mr. James Holladay, of Oldham, proposed William Cobbett, Esq., who was seconded by Mr. John Halliwell, of Oldham. Mr. James Mellor, of Oldham, nominated Benjamin Heywood Bright, Esq., who was supported by Mr. James Whitehead, solicitor. Mr. George VVright, of Bent grange, proposed William Burge, Esq., and the motion was seconded by John Taylor, Esq., of Hargreaves; The Rev. W. F. Walker, incumbent of St. James's Church, Greenacres moor, moved the nomination of George Stephen, Esq., which was seconded by the Rev. T F. Jordan, Baptist minister. John Fielden, Benjamin Heywood Bright, William Burge, and George Stephen, Esqs., and Mr. William Fitton on behalf of William Cobbett, Esq., who was absent at Manchester, delivered effective speeches, explanatory of their respective political views. On a show of hands a vast majority appeared for Messrs. Cobbett and Fielden. Those gentlemen were consequently declared elected, and the other candidates therefore demanded a poll. The proceedings of the nomination terminated about half-past two o'clock in the afternoon, and were characterised throughout by most orderly conduct. The poll commenced on Thursday morning, the 13th December, in three different booths, namely, the Free Grammar School, Oldham, St. J ames's School, Greenacres moor, and the Village School, Royton,

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