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The plaque was originally in Holmfirth Drill Hall, but has since been placed in the adjoining building, which was Holmfirth Town Hall. The Drill Hall and old Town Hall are now combined as the Civic Hall.

Although the inscription says Holmfirth, the men were drawn from around the Holme Valley.

Bamforth's is the well-known postcard maker, and as the company was producing short silent films in 1900, was it possible that they filmed the departure from the town of the Holmfirth Volunteers?
huddersfield.exposed/wiki/Bamforth_and_Co.,_Limited

Eli Collins & Co. Ltd. - Eli Collins had founded the Holmfirth Express in 1866, so wood engraving was likely still being used by the newspaper, hence the company engraving the plaque.

It's not known if the group photo has a copyright attached to it; my apologies if it does. My thanks to the gentleman who sent me the image. www.holmfirthhistory.org.uk/


An intimation has been received by the local volunteer authorities from Colonel Le Motter (Halifax) stating that the Huddersfield Battalion of volunteers will be required to furnish towards the composite company from the three West Riding Volunteer Battalions for the front, one sergeant, two corporals, one bugler, thirty-three privates, and two stretcher-bearers, and the authorities are asked to submit the names of officers recommended for employment with the company. One sergeant-instructor will be required to go to the front with the composite company, and we understand that Sergeant-instructor Bond, of the Mirfield Company, who has passed the medical examination, has volunteered for the position. The selection will rest with the military authorities at Halifax. With reference to the Holmfirth volunteers on Thursday and Friday evening, Surgeon-Lieutenant Williams conducted a medical examination at the Drill Hall, with the result that a selection will be made from the following: -
Captain Mellor; Lieutenant Tinker; Surgeon-Lieut. Williams; Lance-Sergt. Hirst, quarryman; Lance-Corpl. Geo. E. Eastwood, brushmaker; Lance-Corpl. W. E. Tolson, plumber; Lance-Corpl. J. E. Kimberley, coach builder; Private J. R. Woodhead, dyer; Private A. Roberts, labourer; Private H. Wordsworth, securer; Private J. W. Brook, securer; Private J. Dearnley, plasterer; Private J. Quinn, mechanic; Private W. Taylor, millhand; Private J. H. Booth, millhand; Private J. Spencer, millhand; Private H. Hirst, millhand; Private Jepson Brook, painter; Private H. Ball, joiner; Private J. Bray, carbonizer; Private H. Dufton, millhand; Private J. Greensmith, confectioner.

Holmfirth Express, Saturday 13th January 1900

There was a busy scene at the Huddersfield Armoury on Monday evening, when the final selection was made for the local contribution to the composite volunteer company from the West Riding Regiment now on its way to the front. The men who had volunteered for active service, and had passed the requisite tests, paraded in the body of the hall, whilst the galleries were occupied by a large number of members of the battalion who were interested spectators of the proceedings. Captain C. V. Humphrys (the adjutant), carefully considered the claims of each man, and as he selected those for service they went straight to one of the rooms upstairs where the measurements were taken for their uniforms, &c. The anxiety of those who were not chosen straight away was very evident, but when it was found that the number had been completed without their selection, they were evidently very much disappointed. The original order was for 39 rank and file, viz.: - one sergeant, two corporals, one bugler, 33 men, and two stretcher-bearers. Since then an additional bugler has been ordered to be included, bringing up the total rank and file to 40. In the end a splendid selection was made, every man complying with the physical requirements, and being a first-class shot. Colonel Carlile, Major Beadon, Surgeon-Lieutenants Demetriadi and Williams, and several other officers were present, and watched the proceedings with great interest. The Colonel addressed a few words to the men before they separated. There would be other opportunities, he said, of addressing them, but he should like to express pleasure that the section had been completed, and that such a smart body of men had qualified. He felt confident they would worthily represent their battalion. He announced that their Government pay would commence from the date of their attestation, and that in addition they would receive from the corps 1s. per day until they were ordered to the depot, and that also in addition their dinner would be provided for them in the Armoury.

The following twelve members of the F (Holmfirth) Company were selected for service from 23 who had "passed the doctor" at Holmfirth: -
Lance-Sergeant Hirst, Holmfirth.
Corporal F. Eastwood, Netherthong.
Lance-Corporal W. E. Tolson, Holmfirth.
Lance-Corporal J. E. Kimberley, Upperbridge.
Private J. R. Woodhead, Holmbridge.
Private H. Wordsworth, Holmfirth.
Private J. W. Brook, Hill.
Private J. Dearnley, Hinchcliffe Mill.
Private J. Quinn, Holmfirth.
Private J. H. Brook, Meltham.
Private Jepson Brook, Hill.
Private J. Bray, Netherthong.

There are many points of interest about the equipment of the men which are well worth recording. The Government only undertakes to provide tents and ammunition for the men, but allows £9 per man towards their equipment, which is to be provided locally. As it has been decided to furnish the men with every possible requisite this sum will not be sufficient to defray the entire cost, but through the generous offers already recorded of Mr. William Brooke and Colonel T. E. Hirst to subscribe £100 each to the equipment fund, it is anticipated that every provision can be made without any further aid, which would undoubtedly be forthcoming if it were needed. The various articles are being supplied largely by local tradesmen at greatly reduced prices. A perusal of the list of articles to be supplied to each man will be interesting. Every endeavour seems to have been made to render the men both warm and comfortable. Their uniform, kits, and equipment are of the most serviceable character, whilst the underclothing is to be of the best material can be obtained for the purpose.

The following is the list of articles included in the equipment of the local volunteers: -
Two suits of Khaki uniforms - drill and serge.
One pair of putties.
One great coat (regulation pattern).
Red serge and blue trousers.
Two pairs of boots.
One pair of canvas shoes.
Helmet with khaki cover.
Field service cap.
Khaki haversack.
Complete slade - Wallace (regulation) equipment, consisting of waist belt, bayonet frog, braces, valise, mess tin (khaki colour), and strap, coat straps, water bottle and strap, and rifle sling.
Two blankets and one waterproof sheet.
Two pairs of woollen drawers.
Balaclava cap.
Three pairs hand-knitted socks.
Two flannel shirts.
Cardigan jacket.
One pair of wire nippers.
One razor and case.
One kit bag.
One pair of braces.
Cloth brush, shaving brush, and button brush.
Knife, fork, and spoon.
Two tins of dubbin.
"Hold all."
"Housewife" fitted.
Pipe clay and sponge.
Two towels.
Clothes bag.
Two flannel belts.
Field dressing, consisting of an antiseptic field dressing, which will be sown in an inside pocket of the uniform.
Clasp knife with lanyard and marling spike.
Button brass.
Spare buttons.
Collar ornaments.
Shoulder straps with "2 V.B.W.R." embroidered upon them; and
Purse belt.

The attestations of the local volunteers who have offered themselves for active service in South Africa with the composite company for the West Riding Regiment was duly carried out at the Huddersfield Armoury on Tuesday by Captain C. V. Humphrys, adjutant. All the selected 40 turned up, and with two exceptions were duly sworn in. The scene was a stirring one. The men fell in at 9-30 a.m., and were put through a number of exercises in the Armoury, including the physical drill to the pianoforte accompaniment of Sergeant E. M. Ward. The latter is the possessor of an instructor's certificate from the Hythe School of Musketry, and during the day he gave his comrades a technical and at the same time clear and lucid description of the rifle, and how to handle and clean it. In the intervals football was played with a buoyancy and enthusiasm that spoke well for the spirit which animates the men. Buglers Broadbent and Kitchen also performed on the bugle with a brilliance that betokened their efficiency, which it is not at all unlikely will come as a surprise to some of their comrades "in the line."
On Tuesday next, an event will happen at Holmfirth that is unique in the history of the town. Twelve young men have "heard their country's call," and have voluntarily "chucked their jobs" and offered themselves for active service at the front. Such a spirit as this is an object lesson to foreign nations, who have to resort to subscription and commandeering to fill their ranks. The fact that our young men are willing to throw up comfortable situations to face dangers and undergo hardships thousands of miles away from home and kindred shows that British pluck is far from being a thing of the past. The town of Holmfirth ought to be proud of such men and give them a right royal send-off as they leave Holmfirth for Halifax barracks on Tuesday next. The volunteers are proving the material they are made of, and we should like next Tuesday's demonstration to be one befitting the occasion. Those who have been accepted are now on the Government scale of pay, which for a private is not a princely one. Other towns have given their citizens tangible proofs of their best wishes, and it is not too late for Holmfirth to do something in this direction. We hear that the men are to be entertained at the Victoria Hotel, on Monday evening, by Mr. O. H. Sykes, of Woodville. On Tuesday, the officers and men of the F Co. will accompany their comrades in the line to Huddersfield, and take part in the demonstration there.

Last night, Colonel Carlile entertained to dinner, at Holme Hall, the men who are accepted for active service. Mrs. Carlile presented a Testament to each, and the colonel gave each a field glass.

On Thursday, a very pleasant evening was spent at the Waggon and Horses Inn, Holmfirth, when a few members of the Holmfirth Conservative Club gave a supper to three of their members, Privates J. W. Brook, W. E. Tolson, and Jepson Brook, who are about to proceed on active service to South Africa. After an excellent supper Mr. J. W. Stockwell very ably fulfilled the duties of chairman, and presented each of the three volunteers with a pipe and pouch of tobacco, subscribed for by the company. Mr. W. Quarmby submitted the toast of "Her Majesty the Queen." Capt. Mellor, in speaking to the toast "The Army, Navy, and Reserve Forces," dwelt upon the conduct and efficiency of the West Riding volunteers and particularly of the Holmfirth Company, which furnished twelve men of about thirty from the whole companies forming the battalion. The evening was passed very pleasantly, several songs being contributed. The National Anthem concluded the proceedings.

On Thursday evening, about 20 friends of Lance-Sergt. F. Hirst entertained him to supper at the Mason's Arms Inn, Underbank. After dinner Mr. David Broadhead presided, and Mr. Willie Sykes presided at the piano. Several loyal and patriotic songs were contributed, and in the course of the proceedings a purse of gold was presented to Lance-Sergt. Hirst.

Holmfirth Express, Saturday 20th January 1900
On Sunday last, at Lane Sunday School, Lance-Corporal Kimberley received several presents to mark his leaving the district to serve as a volunteer at the war.
On Monday last, after the cessation of work at Messrs. Jonas Brook and Bros., Meltham Mills, there was a crowded and excited audience in the Dining-hall to see the presentations to Private Jacob H. Booth, who has volunteered and been accepted for service with the 2nd Volunteer Battalion Duke of Wellington's West Riding regiment.

Booth's fellow workpeople in the bobbin shop had responded freely with subscriptions. The other departments of the mill had also contributed generously, and the managers and directors had given their support to the scheme, with the result that £10 11s. 9d. had been collected. Two pairs of pants, two vests, two pairs of socks, a cholera belt, a Balaclava helmet, 1lb. of tobacco, one box of cigars, tobacco pouch, briar-wood pipe, a meerschaum cigar holder, and a purse containing the balance of £6 17s, together with a Tam o'-Shanter, a pair of socks, and a woollen scarf from the girls in one of the departments, and a sleeping hood made and presented by Mrs. Charles J. Brook, were the articles which Private Brook received. Colonel Carlile, a director of the firm, and commanding officer of the Huddersfield Rifles, presided over the enthusiastic audience, and was supported by Mrs. C. J. Brook, Mr. A. S. Bryant (manager of the bobbin spinning department), Mr. Albert Quarmby, Councillors J. H. Preston and William Manchester. Colonel Carlile, in an opening speech, said he appeared there not as the commanding officer, but as a director of the firm, having a somewhat particular connection with the bobbin department. They all wished sincerely for Booth's prosperity and success in his journey in South Africa.

The presentation was made by Mr. Bryant on behalf of the workpeople, who expressed his great pleasure to know that there was one man in Meltham Mills who had sufficient patriotism to go out and fight the Boers. He hoped that before long the British flag would be flying over Pretoria, and he expressed his conviction that in a few years the Boers would be singing psalms of thanksgiving that God had sent the British soldier to abolish the Boer oligarchy.

Mrs. C. J. Brook presented Booth with a little parcel, and expressed her hope that he would have the good luck to come out of the contest unharmed. They would all be very pleased to welcome him home once more.

Colonel Carlile said that every man in the Huddersfield detachment would be provided with a pocket filter, so that the risk of contracting enteric fever or dysentery from drinking contaminated water would be reduced to a minimum. In South Africa contaminated water was peculiarly dangerous, as was evidenced by the number of deaths from the diseases mentioned.

Mr. Quarmby, in moving a vote of thanks to Colonel Carlile and Mr. Bryant, thought that there was not the slightest doubt that Great Britain would be finally successful in the long run. He also alluded to the patriotism of the people of the United Kingdom and the Colonies.

Councillor Preston seconded the proposition and concurred with the remarks of the previous speakers. The result of the patriotism off the volunteers would be that in the future they would be put on a very different footing to what had been the case in the past. The Government, in his opinion, had not given that support to the volunteer movement that they should have done, and the difficulty of getting officers was owing to the fact that gentlemen had to dig very deeply down into their pockets. He hoped such a spirit of patriotism would be aroused that in future old soldiers who had given their services for the benefit of their country would not have to finish their days in the workhouse, or be dependent upon charity.

The responses of Colonel Carlile and Mr. Bryant and the singing of "Auld Lang Syne," the National Anthem, &c., terminated the gathering. - Later in the evening a very enthusiastic gathering was held at the Railway Hotel. Mr. A. S. Bryant was elected to the chair. Private Booth had proceeded to Holmfirth, and up to 10 o'clock had not returned. The sum of 30s. had been subscribed, and Miss Marion Stead, the daughter of Mr. Edwin Stead, had made a special journey to Huddersfield to procure a Balaclava helmet to present to Private Booth. Meanwhile Mr Bryant, addressing the gathering, said that he could look back upon the years during which Booth had worked under him with pleasure. He did not remember any single instance that he had found fault with him in the discharge of his duty. He had no doubt that Booth would do his duty in the spirit of the true British soldier. They all hoped he would make some mark and make a name for himself, and perhaps have the distinguished honour of having the Victoria Cross pinned to his breast. (Applause.) Afterwards songs were given by Mr. James Wood, Mr. George Worsley, and Mr. Dyson Brook. Mr. J. Slater recited Kipling's "Absent-minded Beggar," and the collection, which was responded to most heartily, resulted in the sum of 14s. being subscribed.
On Monday evening a crowded meeting of the members of the Holmfirth Liberal Club was held in the large conversation room, for the purpose of taking farewell of Private H. Wordsworth, who is a member of the Club. Councillor S. Collins was called upon to preside, and in opening the proceeding, regretted that the president and vice-president were unable to be present. Under those circumstances he had great pleasure in responding to their call. He considered it an honour to Holmfirth when they contributed twelve men towards the forty representing the whole battalion. It spoke volumes for the efficiency of the Holmfirth contingent. They were all sorry the necessity had arisen for those men to be called out, but that was not the time to argue the question whether they were morally right or wrong. Whatever diversity of opinion there might be, England would have to prosecute the war to a successful issue, and they should all do what they could to achieve that purpose. He gave Private Wordsworth a few words of encouragement, and said the willingness of the young men to brave hardships showed they certainly possessed pluck and courage. They wished Private Wordsworth God-speed, and hoped he would have a safe return at no very remote date. On behalf of the members, who had very readily subscribed for it, he presented to Private Wordsworth a purse containing 30/- which they hoped would prove useful to him. - Private Wordsworth in reply thanked them for their gift, which he much appreciated. He also shook hands with those present, his "parting benediction" to one member being that he was "to give up being a Boer." Hearty cheers were given for the Queen and country, and (on the call of Mr. Joseph Booth) for the volunteers and their officers.
On the invitation of Mr. Oswald H. Sykes, of Woodville, Thongsbridge, the twelve local volunteers who have been accepted for foreign service were entertained to dinner at the Victoria Hotel, Holmfirth, on Monday evening. Capt. Mellor, Lieut. Tinker, Surgeon-Lieut. Williams and one or two others also being present. After dinner a short toast list was gone through.

Mr. Oswald Sykes, in the course of the proceedings, expressed pleasure at the opportunity of helping to make pleasant the time before their departure to join hands with Britons who were already in the field against the enemies of the Queen. Although he was denied the opportunity of being one of them in the field he would be with them in spirit, and he hoped they would all be spared to meet again when the fight was won. He trusted that the after thoughts of that happy hour would tend in some small degree to show them that those whom they left at home were watching and wishing for their success. Perhaps they would not all be able to win a captain's commission or even the Victoria Cross, but as Britons they could all do their best, and be worthy of the place that sent them, and of the great illustrious Queen whom they served. His concluding sentiment was "God bless the Queen, our land, and you, her brave soldiers. -(Applause.)

Capt. Mellor also expressed his pleasure at meeting them on such an occasion as that, and to see how readily the men of the Holmfirth company had responded to their country's call. -(Hear, hear.)- Many of them had left good employment to endure hardships and trials such as they had never encountered before. He was sure he was echoing the thoughts of every one in the town when he wished them God speed and a safe return. -(Applause.)- They wished them good luck because they had shown themselves deserving of it. It was very creditable indeed that out of forty men that represent the whole battalion twelve were chosen from Holmfirth. He congratulated them on the excellence of their previous work as volunteers, and said they certainly did credit to the town. It went without saying they would do good work at the front if they had the chance, and he sincerely hoped they would have the chance. If they did not remain in employment at the Cape he hoped they would have a safe return, and he promised they would have a hearty welcome. -(Applause.)

Lance-Sergt. Hirst responded, and said they all hoped to be able to re-join the Holmfirth Co. on their return home. He concluded by proposing the toast of the host and the officers of the F Company.

Surgeon-Lieut. Williams responded, and said that no one felt keener than he did when he was not one of the volunteers accepted for foreign service. He remarked that many of them would have heard such remarks as "Poor lads, they are going out there to get killed." If they only knew it they ought to think themselves very fortunate. -("We do, I think!)- The chances of being killed, if ever they reached the firing line, was only one in ten. When they came back, if they did not take up some lucrative appointment at the Cape, they would be known as men of courage, and courageous young men were to be relied upon. They were young and strong. and all likely to stand what was expected of them. It would make them better men, and fit them better for their after life. In one respect he was a little disappointed. Holmfirth had furnished as many men practically speaking as several other towns the same size put together, and as many men as Huddersfield, which was more than ten times its size. That was something to be proud of , but he regretted that for some unexplained reason, but for one or two small donation, they had been totally neglected regarding the provision of little luxuries. -("We shall not be fast for them")- He knew they had not volunteered for the sake of that. He wished them to understand that they as volunteers could not ask anyone to start a subscription list of that kind, it would be like asking for themselves, but they felt it exceedingly hard that the town had practically ignored them. He personally thanked Mr. Oswald Sykes for his kindness in entertaining them that weekend.

Mr. Oswald Sykes, Mr. Herman Sykes, and Mr. Crowther also made short speeches.

Songs were contributed by Capt. Mellor, Lieut. Tinker, Corpl. F. Eastwood, Lance-Corpl. Kimberley, Mr. H. Sykes, and Mr. A. Beaumont. Mr. Albt. Tinker was the accompanist, and the evening as a whole was a most enjoyable one.
On Tuesday morning, prior to the "send-off," Private Jepson Brook paid a visit to Messrs. Lawton and Hegley's workshop, where he has been employed. On behalf of the firm and his fellow-workmen, Mr. T. Birks presented a purse of money to Pvt. Brook, accompanied with their best wishes for his future welfare.

To say that we live in stirring times is to make use of a common-place remark. In December there was a monster procession to escort two reserve soldiers en route for Halifax barracks. What a lot has happened since that time! The Holmfirth reservists have reached the front. We have had news of two serious reverses. Horsemen and foot have gone out in haste to Table Bay, and the best of our generals are now working under a new commander-in-chief. And a call for volunteers has been made to the nation at large. Holmfirth was not behind when that call was made, and thirty volunteered to leave the old country and face the hardships at the front. Twelve were accepted, and these men set out for Halifax barracks on Tuesday morning amidst scenes of much enthusiasm.

Naturally the demonstration on Tuesday morning was viewed from different aspects. The new-fledged soldiers seemed stolidly indifferent. There were those who took a very pessimistic view of the matter and lamented the times we live in. Very likely these would have favoured a mournfully quiet and a lonely send-off. One Wooldale man was wanting to bet "a pound" all of the twelve did not come back again. Others had caught to some extent a martial enthusiasm, and saw in the sprightly squad of volunteers some inkling of the secret why England has become so great and powerful. Had those twelve men been "commandeered," the whole situation would have been changed. But marching behind the band to the strains of popular national airs, shoulder to shoulder with the enthusiastic Holmfirth volunteers, one somehow got the impression that after all if a call were made for more men to the front, more would be found able and willing to render a good account of themselves. And no wonder that the onlookers cheered, and that those in the ranks re-echoed the cheer. But to come to "fox."

About ten o'clock people began to assemble near the Drill Hall, and red coats added variety to the scene. The volunteers looked spick and span in bright uniform and pipe-clayed belts. By and bye the heroes of the day arrived on the scene. Councillor Batley, of Netherthong, brought the contingent from the "garden of Holme valley," Corporal Frank Eastwood and Private Bray, as fine a couplet as could be desired. By half-past ten the F Company had paraded at the Drill Hall along with the band and the comrades of the line. The latter paraded in marching order, a noticeable feature of the accoutrements being the field glasses in leather case presented to them by their popular colonel. Capt. Mellor, Lieut. Tinker, and Surgeon-Lieut. Williams were on parade, and took the opportunity of shaking their old comrades by the hand, and having a few words of farewell. Ex-Sergeant Settle was also present wearing his Crimean medals (with Alma and Balaclava clasps) and wearing also marks of two Russian bullets that did little to check his military ardour. Ex-volunteers were represented by Col. Sergt. Lawton, Sergts. Brook and Shore, Corpl. Swallow, and others. After the soldiers had been photographed by Mr. Harry Bamforth (and plenty are looking forward to that piece) the order was given to fall in. The crowd by this had assumed large dimensions. The band and officers led the way. Then followed the twelve regulars - the observed of all observers, their names being: -
Lance-Sergeant Hirst, Holmfirth.
Corporal F. Eastwood, Netherthong.
Lance-Corporal W. E. Tolson, Holmfirth.
Lance-Corporal J. E. Kimberley, Upperbridge.
Private J. R. Woodhead, Holmbridge.
Private H. Wordsworth, Holmfirth.
Private J. W. Brook, Hill.
Private J. Dearnley, Hinchcliffe Mill.
Private J. Quinn, Holmfirth.
Private J. H. Brook, Meltham.
Private Jepson Brook, Hill.
Private J. Bray, Netherthong.

The men of the F Company brought up the rear. The roads were filled with spectators, and faces clustered at the windows which commanded a view of the procession. First we had from the band the strains of Rule Britannia, and then the familiar and favourite Auld Lang Syne, whilst the onlookers occasionally drowned everything by their cheers. The precincts of the Railway Station seemed blocked with people, and one began to wonder where room would be found for the vast crowd approaching. But away went the band, and on marched the men, and soon the red coats were seen struggling through the surging crowd, whilst at the station doors four policemen assisted in regulation matters. It seemed impossible to get on the platform to say good-bye, so the people rushed up the road to catch a view of the departing train. Probably such a send-off was never seen before in the town. The walls beyond the station away on to Berry Banks were lined with eager faces. On the platform "friends were saying good-bye," and a portion of the band was playing the air of "Should old acquaintance be forgot." At last the train started amidst much cheering, and then people returned to business, those who had business to go to. Most mills in the valley granted a little holiday.

The people of Huddersfield resigned all thoughts of business, and gave themselves over heart and soul to the event of the moment. Never before has such a scene of wild excitement been witnessed at Huddersfield. The train to Halifax by which they were to travel was due to live shortly after half-past two o'clock, but long before that time the millhands gathered in the Square and the principal approaches to the station. After the dinner hour there were no workpeople to work the looms, and many of the mills had to close for the day. By about a quarter past two o'clock the Square was one dense mass of humanity, swaying backwards and forwards. All the approaches to the Armoury were thick with people. It would be impossible to estimate the number of the crowd, but there would be about twenty thousand persons, representing all classes.

In the meantime the "forty" were being entertained to luncheon, and shortly after two o'clock a move was made from the Armoury for he station. The band, playing the usual going-away airs, headed the procession, and then came the Volunteers in double file. They wore their red tunics, and the white foreign-service helmets, and were attended by Colonel E. H. Carlile (commanding the battalion) and most of the officers, including Lieutenant H. Wilson, of the Mirfield company, who had been selected for the service. Their arrival at the Square was the signal for a tremendous demonstration. There was another struggle to the station platform, upon which the band took up a position and played in the few moments preceding the departure of the train. Although the platform had been partially reserved, the crush was tremendous, everyone making a simultaneous dash for a hand-shake. Women with shawls on their heads were swayed almost off their feet. Sir James Woodhouse, the Borough member and the "civic fathers," who were well-represented, had much difficulty in keeping their feet. The Volunteers bore themselves well.

The streets did not regain their normal appearance for some time after the departure of the train.

It should be stated that in the morning the forty attended divine service at the Parish Church, when a sermon was preached by the Rev. Cyril Bardsley. Each of the men was presented with a tin of tobacco by Mrs. Kirby.
Sir, - The members of the Holmfirth Volunteers, who have to-day gone from us to join our forces in South Africa, appear to have been allowed to go away without any expression of public sympathy. Certainly a few members and private friends gave them a little send-off, but does this represent the spirit of Holmfirth? Why have they been allowed to go away without some recognition?

If the members of the Holmfirth Council have no spirit of youth and pride of country, their position might have induced them to have made some effort to publicly recognise the loyalty of the men. We cannot all be fighters, but those of us who are left comfortable at home -"armchair critics"- can surely do our part for those who are willing to bear the hardships at the front; and a good hearty send-off to shew the men that their action is appreciated by those about them, is a very small part for us to play, when we know that those leaving may never return, and even at the best, their lot will be a hard one. We have those amongst us who would have been glad to give and to do all that should be done, but who have been waiting for those occupying public positions to take the lead, until too late.

I do not know of a place other than Holmfirth where this thing has occurred, and I consider it a disgrace that it has been allowed. We are often told that Holmfirth leads to nowhere, and it appears as though Holmfirth must also be behind the rest. Who should have moved in this matter if not the leaders of the public.
Dear Sir, - I was very much struck when up in Holmfirth on Tuesday by the number of people lining the roads and on the platform seeing the men off who have volunteered for the front. It was a very pleasing sight to see all these apparently loyal people cheering the lads away.

I have made enquiries since as to what the town people have done in a more substantial way than cheering, for these brave fellows who are sacrificing a comfortable home for the arduous work and scanty fare they are likely to have to put up with when they arrive in South Africa. But I have been unable to hear of anyone in the town (there are two or three outside the town who have done a little) who has put his hand in his pocket to help these representatives of their native place.

Should not someone of position or influence in Holmfirth (say the chairman of the Council) have made some move for them?

It is a great credit to Holmfirth that 12 men should be selected from their Company, and a great discredit that nothing has been done to help to provide them with these little delicacies and luxuries which do so much towards lightening the irksome duties they must from time to time fulfil.

I am sure that if someone would yet make a move (and there is still time to do something as the men do not leave Halifax for some two or three weeks) there would be a great number who would be only too willing to subscribe something.

Hoping you will be able to find space to publish this letter.
Holmfirth Express, Saturday 27th January 1900
On Saturday evening last a social was held at St. David's Schools, Holme Bridge, and Pvt. J. R. Woodhead (who had travelled from Halifax barracks for the week-end) was one who attended. He received a monetary gift of about £2, and the vicar made a graceful speech expressing their best wishes for Pvt. Woodhead's future welfare. Pvt. Woodhead also paid a visit to the Sunday School on the following day, and took leave of his fellow-teachers.
On Sunday afternoon more than usual interest was attached to the proceedings in connection with the Holmfirth Wesleyan Sunday school young men's class. Lance-Corpl. W. E. Tolson and Pvt. Herbert Wordsworth were present and received at the hands of the teacher (Mr. W. H. Barrowclough) a present of £1 10s. each contributed by the four teachers and the members of the class. Mr. Barrowclough's remarks were fitting to the occasion, and the recipients duly acknowledged the gifts.

AN ENLARGED GROUP of our TWELVE HOLMFIRTH MEN who are chosen for South Africa can be had for 3/- at H. BAMFORTH'S, Station Road. Cabinets of same can be had shortly at 5d. each.



Back row: Lance-Corpl. Frank Eastwood, Pvt. John Dearnley, Corpl. F. Hirst.
Middle row: Pvt. Jepson Brook, Pvt. John Bray, Pvt. Herbert Wordsworth, Pvt. Jacob H. Booth, Pvt John Quinn.
Front row: Pvt. John W. Brook, Pvt. William Ernest Tolson, Pvt. James E. M. Kimberley, Pvt. Joe R. Woodhead
The following "appeal" has been issued on behalf of the twelve Holmfirth volunteers, whom it is expected will receive early orders to sail for South Africa: - It is of course known to everyone that the War Office have asked for Volunteers to offer their services to join the Regular Forces now engaged in South Africa. Many men have offered to go and a careful selection of the best men has been made. In some cases only two, or three have been taken out of a Company, but the F Company which we know best as the Holmfirth Volunteers, have such a good reputation for efficiency that the Company have been honoured by the selection of twelve men for the front. These twelve men, everyone well-known to us, can receive no better recommendation than the fact of their selection.

All the Volunteers selected are being provided with money to purchase small comforts and little matters, when they get to the front. Army rations, of course, will be provided, but do not include many little things which we at home consider absolute necessaries. These things are very dear in Africa, and though the Volunteers, both officers and men, have done what they could this does not go far amongst twelve, and our fellow-townsmen are not so well provided as some of their comrades.

There is a general widespread wish to help our men only awaiting the opening of a subscription list.

It has therefore been decided to open a collection, and boxes are being sent to many places, while collecting books will be sent as far as practicable.

The men will be leaving England in a week or so, and therefore it is earnestly hoped that everyone wishful to assist our townsmen will take the earliest opportunity of doing so.

It is earnestly requested that any one who can assist will take boxes or books for the purpose of the collection. These can be obtained from Mr. S. Collins, Victoria Street.

Contributions will be received by: Mr. H. P. Stewart, West Riding Bank; or Mr. G. E. Vint, South House, Holmfirth.

All communications should be addressed to the undersigned.
Holmfirth Express, Saturday 3rd February 1900
On Sunday, Lance-Corpl. J. E. Kimberley was presented with £1 10s. by the Lane Chapel Christian Endeavour Society.
"An Old Volunteer" has received the following letter from one of the Huddersfield contingent at Halifax barracks: "A busy day was spent on Monday with musketry. Sectional practice under section commanders took place on the Holmfield rifle range. Special permission has been obtained for the use of this - a condemned range. Each man had issued to him 21 rounds which were expended as follows: - Seven rounds deliberate volleys; seven round rapid deliberate volleys; seven rounds rapid independent. The results of the above practice resulted in our outlying companies' section under Corporal Hirst heading the poll of percentages. They are much up at it I can assure you. The want of practice with ball ammunition is seen plainly with our headquarter's men. The range was 300 yards. Bayonets were fixed and the fixed sight (300 yards) used. We march out headed by our bugle band (Buglers Kitching and Broadbent) and when we are marching at ease the Mirfield mouth-organ band (Private Hemingway) keeps going at a good rattling pace. We have found our Colonel's gifts already very useful. Our 'objects named at' was a head and shoulders target (6ft. by 2ft.). The general opinion among the men is that volunteer prize shooting should not be confined to the pot-hunting brigade, but should consist of more sectional work, which is of far greater importance, approaching as it does so near to actual service conditions."

The Chronicle's comment is as follows: There is plenty of food for reflection in this letter, and I especially commend that portion of it on "pot-hunting" to the considerations of those who have to do with the arrangements for the annual prize shooting. It should be explained that Corporal Hirst's section consists entirely of the members of the outlying companies, and includes the strong Holmfirth contingent. F Company has the honour of contributing no less than a dozen men to the Huddersfield battalion's detachment, and the value of regular practice on the range was clearly emphasised by the success of this section on the Holmfield range, last Monday. Captain R. R. Mellor, I know, is proud of his lads, and I have no doubt it will afford considerable satisfaction to the district from which F Company is drawn to hear that their strong contribution to the local detachment is doing so well. Bravo, Holmfirth.

Holmfirth Express, Saturday 10th February 1900
Mr Stewart, manager of the Holmfirth branch of the West Riding Bank, yesterday afternoon informed us that £60 has been raised for the twelve Holmfirth Volunteers who have started for the front. This is a creditable result of the efforts put forth by Mr. Vint and those who have assisted him. In addition to what is acknowledged in another column Captain Mellor has received twelve woollen scarves from Mr. T. Exley, draper.
Most of the Holmfirth volunteers for active service spent last week-end at their homes. They also had a mid-week furlough, coming home on Tuesday and returning on Wednesday evening. Their khaki uniform made them very conspicuous in the town. They are full of spirits, and seem anxious to get to South Africa. Several interested in the battalion have journeyed to Southampton to witness their embarkation in the "Guelph" to-day. The men left Halifax barracks last night.

Holmfirth Express, Saturday 17th February 1900

Having witnessed the enthusiasm shown by the local volunteers in offering their services to the Government, I determined to witness the start of the men on their voyage to South Africa, on the S.S. Guelph at Southampton on Saturday. I may say that I was fortunate enough to be invited to the mayoral banquet at Halifax on Friday. The volunteers were entertained in a splendid manner by the mayor of Halifax, and the Holmfirth contingent seemed to have a very good time of it. Among the speakers none had a heartier welcome than Col. Carlile and Major Humphries, and their remarks were to the point. The men left Halifax at 11-30 by special train, and went by the Willesden Junction route. At Grantham they had a splendid welcome, and I will use Mr. Milne's description from the Chronicle: -
"At Grantham, where we arrived about 3 a.m., our men had a sample of the most unselfish and patriotic generosity I have experienced for a long time. The station was filled with an enthusiastic multitude, who seemed anxious to do all in their power to increase the comfort of the men. By this time most of the men were sound asleep, and until they realised what was the matter they did not much relish the efforts made to rouse them. But how much they appreciated the kindness of the people there is almost too deep for word. An unlimited supply of steaming hot coffee was handed into the compartments, along with any number of biscuits. In addition, a mysterious looking parcel, which was afterwards found contained meat sandwiches was put into each compartment, and a pint champagne bottle filled wit beer was handed to every two men. The spirit in which these two comforts were conferred enhanced their value. Everybody seemed anxious to shake hands with the men, and the sympathetic tremor in their "Good luck to you, my lad," uttered in the pleasant dialect of the district, affected the men deeply. The unselfishness of the act was specially marked, for we understood that every volunteer-train coming through Grantham was similarly treated, and the people of the pretty town may rest assured that their timely and thoughtful hospitality will never be forgotten by those who appreciated it. They realise, at any rate, what a debt they owe to the men who have voluntarily undertaken the duty of going thousands of miles to fight their battles for them. The train, which had been lengthened at Grantham by the addition of the carriages containing the Lincoln Service Company, then continued its way. Peterborough was reached at 4-10, and we arrived in London just after six, when the city looked anything but the busy hive it would become in a few hours. The shunting necessary to get us on to the Southampton line took up some time, and it was seven ere we reached Clapham Junction. Here we passed the Gordon Highlanders, who had been in the train since one o'clock on Friday afternoon. There were many enthusiastic exchanges between our men and theirs, the most popular cry being "What ho! Good old Guelph." As we neared Southampton the residents were responsible for a good many kindly demonstrations, and patriotic flags were displayed waved at many places en route."

I did not personally accompany the men, having travelled to London by the Great Central Ry. However, I rejoined the Holmfirth men on the Saturday on board the "Guelph." They had just finished dinner, and once again seemed to have enjoyed the repast. Corporal Hirst's mess contains 13 men, mostly from Holmfirth. The others are next neighbours, so that the Holmfirth colony sticks together. I had a look through the men's quarters, and they have every prospect of a comfortable voyage. If it is not divulging secrets, I may say that I caught some very busy writing love letters, and I brought three or four of them to the Southampton post office. The men wore their scarlet uniform and the mufflers presented to them. There arms were those supplied to them when serving in the ranks of the F. Company. Corporal F. Hirst asked me to express their sincere and heartfelt thanks to Mr. Vint, and all individual subscribers to their pocket-money fund, and also to those who had contributed articles of clothing. On the previous day I had handed over the money to Lieut. Wilson, who kindly gave me the following receipt: -
Halifax, Feb. 16th, 1900.
Received from Captain R. R. Mellor, the sum of £60 for the twelve Holmfirth F Company men, to be given to them as required, to the amount of £5 per man, during the voyage out to South Africa, by Lieutenant H. Wilson.
Nothing was more pleasing than the fact that the men seemed most cheerful and hopeful. Doubtless a life on the ocean wave will be a new experience for them, and it will perhaps prove welcome after the monotony of barrack life. Unfortunately Saturday was a stormy day at Southampton, and probably the voyage at the outset would be rough. The message entrusted to "An Old Volunteer," was "Tell 'em all at home that we shan't be long now, and that we're goin' to do our little best for t' good old native land, and tell 'em, too, to have t'teapot on t'rib when we're coming home." The "cargo" comprised 24 officers, 800 volunteers, 40 nurses, ten second class ward-maids, and a few passengers. Soon 3-30 came and with it the signal for the "Guelph" to start. The cornet player who had been playing national airs now began the National Anthem, and as the vessel left the side "God Save the Queen" was loyally sung on land and sea. Cheer after cheer resounded, and as the boat faded in the distance Lance-Corpl. Frank Eastwood (with whom I noticed Pvt. Quinn) sent a farewell salute, and the vessel passed beyond our vision. As we journeyed to London and back again to Yorkshire our thought often wandered to the good ship "Guelph" and its freight. May the time soon come when we shall welcome back the volunteers from the Holme Valley.
Corporal Hirst and the Holmfirth detachment, now on the voyage to South Africa, have, through Surgeon-Lieut. Williams, sent their sincere thanks to Mrs. Sykes, of Woodville, for twelve Balaclava helmets, and to Mrs. Crowther, of New North Road, Huddersfield, for six dozen pocket handkerchiefs.

Holmfirth Express, Saturday 24th February 1900

More from F Company after my next visit to Holmfirth Library. (BUK)