| Description | Jordan
DOB: 16 December 1894
DOD: N/A
Early memory of her brother returning from the South African War at age 18.
Fond memories of staying with her cousin in South Shields; they visited the Tivoli Theatre and HMS Victoria.
Participated in Queen Victoria’s coronation celebrations; received chocolate and a silver coin.
Childhood involvement included delivering dinner to her brother at Walker Shipyard, sharing pot pie there.
Father passed away when she was 16, due to a steel injury from the Foundry.
School memories are mentioned, including being praised by a teacher for her aptitude.
Later mentions her children's education: one daughter went to Dame Allan’s School; son and other daughter to Pendower Commercial School.
Apprenticed in tailoring, starting with no pay for six months; became highly skilled in making men’s suits.
Worked at Bainbridge and in the tailoring trade throughout her life.
In wartime, shifted from suit-making to working on khaki military garments.
Earned a reputation as a skilled and versatile tailor, active in the Amalgamated Tailors & Garment Workers Union.
Worked under challenging conditions with poor lighting and long hours before labour reforms improved conditions.
Married by special license on August 12, 1915, just before her husband left for WWI.
Husband served in the R.F.A. (Royal Field Artillery), was injured in the Battle of the Somme.
Had three children: two daughters and one son.
Later had five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Spoke fondly of her children’s success and her deep appreciation for her sons-in-law and daughter-in-law.
Deeply involved in the Co-operative movement; held roles like Vice Chairman and Secretary.
Travelled to national conferences and participated in competitions with the guild.
Took pride in voluntary union and community work.
Witnessed both World Wars; her life and work were deeply impacted by these events.
Experienced the rise of the Labour Party and post-war economic hardships.
Engaged in labour organizing during the early years of the Tailors Union.
Reflections on shifting social and manufacturing conditions over the decades.
Handwritten
Tailoring, apprenticeship, South Shields, HMS Victoria, Queen Victoria’s coronation, Walker Shipyard, South African War, WWI, Elswiek Battery, Co-operative movement, Amalgamated Tailors Union, Bainbridge, commercial school, family legacy. |