ACKWORTH

An interesting collection of material relating to a significant school, including thirteen items of correspondence from a notable headmaster, and four printed items, two of them scarce. Founded by Benjamin Franklin’s friend Dr John Fothergill in 1779 (see his entry in the Oxford DNB), Ackworth is the second-oldest of the seven English Quaker schools. (See Fothergill’s entry in the Oxford DNB. Franklin could ‘hardly conceive that a better man ever existed’.) Originally a co-educational boarding school, it is now a Girls’ boarding and day school.

32pp., 8vo. With two photographic plates: 'The Pageant Ground' and 'The Friends' School, Ackworth'. Stapled booklet in grey wraps with '1910 | THE ACKWORTH PAGEANT.' on cover, with illustration of two turrets. In fair condition, on aged paper, in worn wraps, with rusting staples. 'Finale' ('The whole School will sing') by Dr Ernest B. Ludlam, followed by page of details of 'Incidental Music' ('specially composed by Miss Helen Bullock, I.R.A.M., A.R.C.M.'), 'Orchestra' ('Mr. R. B. Walker has kindly consented to conduct') and 'Committees'.

"Reprinted from the 'Natural History Journal', February, March [...] 1887", 30 leaves paginated on recto, folding map of Ackworth (frontis.), light grey-green printed wraps, foxed, sunned and sl. grubby, wear and tear, contents good. ENCLOSED: Autograph Letter Signed from Hugh Richardson, The Gables, Elswick Road, Newcastle-on-Tyne, to "Mr J.H. Nodal" Stockport [co-writer of 'A glossary of the Lancashire dialect', etc., 11 Sept.1888.