Strike and Riot in Sharples, Lancashire 1830

[Rowan Tree]

Hi,

I'm trying to find out more about why cotton workers were striking in c. April 1830 in Sharples (North of Bolton), Lancashire.

From reading contemporary newspaper reports, I've learnt that there was a riot, around midnight, on or around the 10th April 1830 in Sharples, near Messrs. Ashworth's mill.

It's reported that striking mill workers broke over 300 squares of glass, broke furniture within cottages, attacked the local school, and assaulted mill workers who had been brought in from Manchester to replace the striking workers. One man was beaten senseless with clubs and then thrown down a flight of stairs. Police were brought from neighbouring Bolton.

I can make educated guesses and inferences about what was happening and why but I'd prefer to learn something specific that's relevant to this time and location.

Is anybody reading knowledgeable about this time/location? Or is anybody able to direct me to a good source? I could just do with a little guidance on where to take this next to expand my knowledge and understanding.

Many thanks,

Rowan Tree 

P.S. I came across the riot in the first place when looking into Zephor LANE. He's a handy person to search for when trying to find mention of this riot as he's got a distinct first name and it sounds like he was a particular focus/target of the rioters.

[Susan Blackstone]

Hi, I have looked at the newspaper reports available on findmypast.co.uk of the riot, but there is no indication as to the reasons why.

I have found reference to the Event mentioned in the Book "The Village of Astley Bridge" written by the late Norman Hindley (Friends of Astley Bridge) in which he mentions the Riot.  "In 1830 Henry Ashworth like other mill owners reduced wage rates when introducing larger machines.  This caused resentment and strikes". Norman mentioned that in 1840 there were concerns in the newspapers and Parliament of Henry Ashworth's treatment of his workers and his opinions on trade unions, working rules, hours of work and free trade.  The Book "The Ashworth Cotton Enterprise" written by Rhodes Boyson quoted by Norman mentions the piece rate offered was 10% lower than the rest of Bolton and the employees were find more often.

As some of the instigators were sent to Lancaster Assizes they may be mentioned in the newspapers etc.  Halliwell History Society of Bolton may be able to help.

Hope the is information is useful.

[maddys52]

There is a very detailed account of proceedings at the court case about the "strike" at the mill. Happy to send you a copy if you don't have access.
Tuesday,  Mar. 30, 1830
Publication: Manchester Mercury

[Rowan Tree]

Massive thanks to Susan Blackstone and maddys52 

That's exactly what I was hoping for / needed. You've both given me so much useful information.

I'll add one quote from the Manchester Mercury.
When a spinner named John GREENHOUGH is urged to return to work, he replies;

"If I go back to my work, my life is in danger."

John is then threatened with prison but still refuses to go back to work. John, along with multiple other spinners, is committed to the New Bailey for one month.

The background on the ASHWORTH's and the spinners is very enlightening.

Thanks again,

Rowan Tree