Smith, Isaac J P

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Smith, Isaac J P

Watercolour portrait of Isaac Smith J P

From John Sowden's notebooks:

"Mr Isaac Smith was the second son of Mr John Smith of Messrs John Smith and Sons, worsted spinning of Field Head Mills. He was born in 1832 and was educated at Mr Riley’s school. He entered his father’s works and in 1853 when he reached 21 years of age, he was made a partner. His eldest brother having been, disowned the whole responsibility of the business rested on his shoulders. He had so much work to do that he fixed a shut-up-bed in the office and slept there.

His younger brothers Mr Benjamin Smith, Mr Harry Smith were in course of time admitted to the firm but their retirement in 1879 left Mr Isaac sole member of the firm. Mr Isaac Smith could look back to the time when it was the custom to deliver yarn in the bundle. This was before the spool bobbin was introduced, and with very few exceptions all wool was combed by hand.

The firm was the first to introduce Buenos Aires wool into the Bradford trade. Mr Smith was connected with the industry of Saltaire, being chairman of the syndicate that bought Saltaire Mills in 1893. Mr Smith was an active Liberal and a prominent figure in the public life of Bradford, though for some considerable time prior to his withdrawal from it had been complete. He was elected a member of the Bradford Board of Guardians in 1869. Mr Smith entered the Town Council in 1874 representing Little Horton Ward. He was made Alderman in 1880 and in the year 1893-4 and 1884-5 filled the office of Mayor. In 1886 he was elected Alderman a second term, but soon after resigned owing to pressure of business. He filled many offices in the Bradford Liberal Association and was chairman for some time.

During his mayoralty and through his very strenuous personal efforts the sum of £18,000 was raised for the infirmary building and investment found. Mr Smith was a Baptist. He married in 1858 daughter of Mr W Holiday of Bradford. Their golden wedding day was celebrated in 1908. He died in 1909 leaving a widow and four sons and five daughters."

Year

1888

Creator

John Sowden

Image filename

sowden-82