Chancery by his heirs, praying that the will might be set aside on the ground of his alleged insanity at the time it was executed. A protracted litigation was the result, but a decree was ultimately obtained by the trustees in favour of the charity, and in consequence of the delay which had taken place, the amount of money bequeathed had accumulated to upwards of £100,000. Measures were then taken to obtain subscriptions for the erection of a suitable building, and a site having been granted on Oldham edge, by R. Radcliffe, Esq., and Joseph Jones, Esq., the foundation stone was laid on the 20th of April, 1829, by Mr. Thomas Barker, the surviving partner of the batting firm of the Henshaws. The building, which occupies one of the most commanding and elevated situations in the town, is built in the English style of architecture, and was erected from the plans of Mr. Richard Lane, architect, by Mr. D. Bellhouse, jun., builder. The first election of boys took place on the 25th of June, 1834, Mr. Barratt having been appointed governor, and Mrs. Barratt matron, some time previously. In consequence of Mr. Barratt's declining health, Mr. Thomas Croxton was appointed governor on the 5th of August, 1850, and still continues to hold the oiiice to the satisfaction of the trustees and with advantage to the institution. Mr. Barratt died on the 28th of August, 1851 The average number of boys in the institution is 120, who receive board and education, and the number admitted since its opening has been 660. The course of education given is of a useful and valuable character, and a brass band, which has attained a high degree of proficiency, has been organised in the school, and has been main- tained for some years.

The working classes of Oldham have exhibited a laudable desire to provide for themselves in times of sickness and distress, evidence of which is given in the large number of sick and funeral societies existing in the borough, and the numerous building clubs that

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