Hardaker, John, Alderman

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Watercolour portrait by John Sowden of Alderman John Hardaker.

from John Sowden's notebooks:

"Was born in Bradford in 1831 and became a partner with his father in the firm of William Hardaker & Son, Builders and Contractors. From that business he retired in 1882.

Mr Hardaker and Mr MW Thompson, afterwards Sir MW Thompson, Bart(?), were great friends and Mr Thompson made Mr Hardaker his almoner in dispensing cheques for charitable or philanthropic purposes. Mr Hardaker had four years experience on the Board of Guardians, 1875-6 and in 1881-2. Mr Hardaker was made a Justice of the Peace. He entered the Town Council in 1868 as a representative of the Little Horton Ward and was re-elected in 1870. A severe illness interfered with his contesting the ward in 1874 and for a short time he was out of the Council. In 1875 he was again elected and in 1883 was made an Alderman, remaining one until his death in 1903. Mr Hardaker worked particularly to obtain public parks for Bradford and was a honorary Clerk of Works in the carrying out of these projects, offering a great saving to the Borough. He was also an enthusiastic supporter of the Bradford Cricket and Athletics Club and for many years one of its Vice Presidents.

He was married at the age of 24(?) and had born to him in 19 years 18 children – 9 of whom are still living - one son and eight daughters and his widow."

Year

1889

Creator

John Sowden

Image filename

sowden-97