The Chairmakers of Worksop by Michael J Jackson is a 50-page publication printed shortly after the author’s death and represents many years of research and enquiries about the little-known craft of chair making in Worksop.
Chair making in the town began around 1820 with John Gabbitas who set up in Worksop’s ‘Common End’, now Victoria Square. He employed workmen who themselves, with his expert tuition, would become craftsmen, Isaac Allsop, Benjamin Gilling and John and Joe Godfrey. All produced chairs of quality in local elm and ash, marking their chairs with the maker’s name.
The book contains a full list of Worksop Chair makers and the years they were producing. The last recorded chair maker was John Kelk who carried on until the early 20th century and his work is illustrated on the front cover of the book — a fitting tribute to woodcraft now gone. This publication is available at a cost of £10.00, to include postage and packaging. To receive a copy please send a cheque payable to WALHS (Worksop Archaeological and Local Historical Society) to Harry Richardson, 3 Newcastle Court, Tuxford NG22 0GY.
WALHS meetings
The dates so far for the Worksop Archaeological and Local Historical Society meetings in 2018 are:
- 25th January — Michael J Jackson Memorial Evening — A presentation on the life and interests of the group’s late founder member and president.
- 22nd February — Old Worksop Evening — Images and objects from the town and neighbourhood.
- 22nd March — The history of Music Hall by Sue Dolby — An evening of nostalgia looking at this popular form of entertainment.
The Society meets at 7.30pm at the Station Hotel, Carlton Road, Worksop. Visitors are welcome.