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A Yorkshire Undertaking

By Ken Wyatt

Introduction

This book seeks to set out a brief history of a remarkably long staying Yorkshire family business. C. T. Butterfield & Sons Limited, Funeral Directors, of Swinton, South Yorkshire is still firmly a family business with the fifth generation playing a daily role. The year 2004 will see the Company celebrating its 130th Anniversary.

Founded in 1874 when John Butterfield first came to Swinton to seek his living as a wheelwright.

Like many other businesses, conducting the odd funeral became a very useful sideline to the main business of the day.

Members of my own family were some time parttime undertakers. Among a variety of other business ventures, my Great Uncle, Frank Tingle, owned his own hearse, which weighed three tons, and a Sunbeam limousine for funeral work. My Uncle Varah was the driver of the hearse, which my Uncle Bryan used to clean. Coffins were made in an attic room and the enterprise was conducted from Uncle Franks yard at the Old Don Pottery. Uncle Bryan dreamed of they day when he would be able to take the wheel but the undertaking aspect of the business was to be folded up before he came to legal driving age.

The Butterfields became specialists; their reputation grew and has remained highly respected throughout the region.

I am very grateful to a number of people who have helped with this project. My wife, Helen, for helping me with the word processing, Neil License for photography, Crematorium Staff at Rotherham MBC, Giles Brearley, F.C.M.A., for technical assistance, Brian, Doreen and David Butterfield for their help and assistance and patience with many enquiries and for allowing publication of their archive photographs and Mrs. Ann Murray for photographs and information about her father, Ronald Butterfield.

Special thanks must go to Walter Dobbs, aged 101 and Alfred Butterfield, aged 91, for allowing me into their homes to share their precious memories.

Any mistakes must remain my responsibility.

John Butterfield was born on 19th November 1849. As a young man he entered into an indentured apprenticeship as a wheelwright, working in the rich agricultural lands to the north

and east of Doncaster. He married Ann, (née Thompson) in Belton Church, which today stands not too far from the M180 motorway. Like many others at that time, they moved to the expanding township of Swinton, leaving their rural life behind.

Chapter One : 1870’s Swinton

The Swinton of the 1870’s was well on it’s way to becoming a Victorian industrial boomtown. It had lost its world-famous Rockingham pottery in 1842. However, production of ceramics was still continuing at the Don Pottery, with a substantial workforce in the Rowms Lane area.

John Butterfield, Master Wheelwright, puts the finishing touches to a huge cart wheel. The tool he is using is called an adze.

A thriving glass industry had been established in the 1850’s.  Coal was being extracted at a number of sites, especially at Manvers Main and Wath-upon-Dearne.  Hattersley Brothers moved their iron founding business to the town around this time, opening a large works on White Lea Road in 1869.  The area was well served with railways and the production of railway wagons and wheels added further to the industrial base.

All this industrial activity brought about a vast increase in population from 653 in 1801 to 6,983 by 1874 – the year of the establishment of Butterfield’s business.

Swinton’s new citizens required housing and much development occurred, especially at the Mexborough end of the town.  Swinton Bridge Board School opened in that area in 1878.  A fledgling Cooperative Society had been started – but this was never to grow to a similar strength to neighbouring Kilnhurst’s Society.

In 1874, William Ward founded a Mineral Water works in Market Street. Just down the road in Kilnhurst, John Brown & Co. of Sheffield had purchased the former Swinton Iron Works in 1863.  They had then proceeded to build a very substantial plant for the puddling of iron, which was rolled into plates.  Swinton was situated on an important junction of the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation, with the Dearne and Dove Canal.  Boat building first started in 1770 and the waterways provided further employment opportunities.

The Swinton and Mexborough Gas Light Company began construction of their works in 1872 and eventually became responsible for supplying an area of 3000 acres.

On the downside, this massive expansion of industry and population caused dire problems in respect of sanitation and water supply, which were to last for many years. Right up to the very last years of the 19th Century, the population of Swinton and Kilnhurst obtained their drinking water from springs, streams and shallow wells. Wells were sunk in cellars and yards and were often contaminated with sewage from nearby privies. Not surprisingly, waterborne diseases were rampant in the area. To give one example, the stream at the bottom of Temperance Street was a popular site where many people would go to draw their water. This was described as “simply an open sewer and the land about it a pestilential swamp”. Deaths had occurred from fever in every house near to it. Cholera was the probable cause of these deaths but it was not until 1883 that the Cholera germ was discovered so the term fever was a commonly applied diagnosis.

So it was into this community that John Butterfield moved with his wife. He recognised the need of the services of a highly skilled wheelwright would be in demand. The town also lacked the services of a reliable undertaker and funeral furnisher. A death rate of 19 per 1000 in 1876 would ensure that this aspect of his business would prosper.

Chapter Two: Victorian Funerals– Pomp & Circumstance

To our modern eyes, the Victorian funeral was a bizarre spectacle. The undertaking trade encouraged expensive and elaborate ceremony, often to indicate the deceased and their family’s social standing. Much Victorian ceremony was taken from heraldic symbolism, the age of chivalry and ideas on medieval heritage. Bereaved families would have to pay for two men with miserable faces to act as mutes to ‘guard’ the door of the house where the body would be laid out. These mutes would also be supplied with any drink that was on offer. Records relate that in some instances as the cortège set off, the mutes were so intoxicated that they stag gered around in the road and had to be taken home in the hearse because they were too drunk to walk!

The mutes wore frock coats, top hats and carried crapecovered wands.

The curtains of the house where the death had occurred would be kept drawn; the doorknob and doorknocker would be dressed in black material.

If the person were particularly well known, then the route of the cortège would be hung with black material and all houses would draw their blinds.

A list published around 1870 gives details of various ‘classes of funerals’ and provides details of what is available graded by cost. Prices range from £3 5s. to £53.

It was expected that the undertaker would provide the hearse with 2 or 4 horses, mourning coaches and horses, velvet coverings for the coaches and horses, masses of black ostrich feathers for the top of the hearse and horses plumes. So important were the ostrich feathers – they could be real or imi-tation – that the undertakers would sometimes have ‘Funeral and Feather-man’ on their trade cards.

Solemnity was a favourite word among the Victorians. The black hearse would have glass sides, often etched with floral designs – it would have much silver and gold decoration. The coffin would be visible and sometimes would be covered with black, purple or dark green cloth, though it now seems a shame to cover the coffin made of oak or elm, highly polished with masses of brass furniture.

Depending on choice (and price) the coffin may have been lead lined with its outer shell of wood up to 1½ inch thick. It would have the best brass handles, grips, nails, a stout plate for the inscription and lid ornaments to match. Inside the coffin would be satin lining, a mattress, pillow, sheet and grave clothing. The quantities and quality of materials buried is staggering to contemplate.

Mourning cards were another Victorian custom. These would be supplied by the undertaker, with specially printed details of the funeral. The cards would often be embossed with traditional designs of grief, such as kneeling females, an urn or inverted torch. Mourning cards would often be set in elaborate mounts to keep on the mantle piece. Further expense was incurred by sending the cards in black edged envelopes. A whole stationery business was created to supply black sealing wax, ink, black edged notepaper and even mourning pens to write with.

All this pomp created huge problems for those with limited means. Poorer families could be paying for years as they struggled to avoid the perceived ignominy of a pauper’s funeral. Children’s education & well being suffered for the sake of over elaborate ceremony.

One local aristocrat would have none of this. A report in the Yorkshire Tele-graph & Star, (Wednesday Evening Edition) March 14th 1900 stated - Earl of Manvers Will. “ The will of Colonel Sydney William Herbert 3rd Earl of Manvers, bequeaths his estate, valued at £ 106,308,7s7d to members of his family & contains the following curious request: -

11 It is my wish that there should be no hearse & no undertakers employed at my funeral if it can be avoided & I wish to be wheeled to the grave only by those in my own employment.” The Earl had the distinction of having the enormously profitable Manvers Colliery name after him so he could be forgiven certain eccentricities.

Most people followed the expected protocol. They would pay into burial clubs or friendly societies in order to cover the costs of a decent funeral. Multiple memberships were not uncommon with cases of membership of 30 plus clubs reported in some cities. Burial club membership for children could be particularly dangerous, children especially girls were worth more dead than alive. Today legislation is in place with respect to life insurance for children.

Other sources of help were Trade Unions and trade associations, these would pay to deceased members’ families a death grant.

Funerals of the working classes were often held on Sundays, as this was the only day the mourners did not have to work.

Solomon Grundy
Born on Monday
Christened on Tuesday
Married on Wednesday
Took ill on Thursday
Worse on Friday
Died on Saturday
Buried on Sunday
That was the end of Solomon Grundy

(Traditional)

It is worth wondering whether or not this rhyme came from the tradition of Sunday burials.

For those with no means, costs of the funeral would be met by parish funds. The coffin would be of the lowest price with no handles, ornamentation or nameplate. It would be lowered into a grave with multiple other internments. Some city churchyards had as many as 17 or 18 to a grave, with no earth between the coffins.

But what of the surviving relatives?

We’ve looked at the often-meaningless paraphernalia of the Victorian funeral – strict conformity had to be observed by the bereaved otherwise they could be accused of disrespect.

When a death occurred, the whole family, including children and any servants, had to don mourning clothing. The poorest families would appear dressed in new black clothing very soon after a death took place. The clothing would be purchased from burial club funds and sometimes be obtained from pawnshops or secondhand. Women, especially, had to observe the dress code. Their dresses would be heavily trimmed with black material; there were capes, bonnets, veils, indoor caps and even black trimmed underwear. Special umbrellas and parasols were sold.

The jewellery trade also enjoyed booming business, as special ‘mourning jewellery’ became popular.

This fashion proved a godsend to the town of Whitby, which became the national centre for the production of Jet jewellery. Jet is a kind of hard coal, an anthracite or lignite probably formed from driftwood.

Brooches, rings and lockets often had painted miniatures or photographs of the deceased person or a lock of hair. Opals were popular as they symbolised grief.

Children would be denied the right to play or enjoy themselves during the mourning period and would be surrounded by depressing reminders of bereavement. This even extended to the nursery.

The Death of Cock Robin Who killed Cock Robin? “I”, said the sparrow, “with my bow and arrow.” “I killed Cock Robin.” Who saw him die? “I”, said the fly, “with my little eye.” “I saw him die.” Who’ll make his shroud? “I”, said the beetle, “with my thread and needle.” Who’ll dig his grave? “I”, said the owl, “with my little trowel.” Who’ll give the memorial? “I”, said the rook, “with my little book.” Who’ll be chief mourner? “I”, said the dove, “with my undying love.” Who’ll bear the coffin? “I”, said the wren, “with rooster and the hen.” Who’ll let him down? “I”, said the crane, “with my golden chain.” Who’ll cover him over? “I”, said the crow, “with my little hoe.” Who’ll toll the bell? “I”, said the bull, “because I can pull.” Who’ll mark the grave? “I”, said the thrush, “with my paint and brush.” Who’ll keep the vigil? “I”, said the lark, “as long as it’s not dark” Chorus All the birds of the air fell a sighin’ and sobbin’ When they heard of the death of poor cock robin, (Popular Victorian nursery rhyme and song, often found illustrated in Children’s books)

Chapter Three: Funeral Hospitality

It was customary, after the funeral, to hold a feast. In Yorkshire, especially, this was very important. Sometimes the feast would be held in the house of the deceased and even in the homes of the poor, the very best possible spread would be provided as a point of honour. The men would attend the actual burial, while the women would remain to work their best culinary skills for after the service. In Northern England, ham was especially customary, accompanied with much ale.

Often the undertaker would turn caterer and provide the funeral feast. In Yorkshire, this was often celebrated in a local hostelry a tradition that is still very popular today. The menu would include ham, pies, cakes – jellies and trifle was always something to be enjoyed. As for beverages, there would be ale, sherry, port and gin, especially appreciated by our friends the ‘mutes’!

For those not imbibing in alcohol, tea would be served from a special funeral teapot with a funeral tea service.

Much of Victorian society was dominated by a desire to ‘keep up with the Jones’s’ and the funeral meal was an occasion to vie with the neighbours and produce the best in food and drink.

Chapter Four: Early Days

It is important to note that the undertaking trade was, at this time – outside of the cities – a ‘sideline’ to other trade. Even in the metropolis of London a survey in 1843 identified 1025 individuals describing themselves as undertakers yet only 275 stated that this was their main or sole business. The whole affair was totally adhoc unlike France for example, which had regulation of undertaker’s tariffs since 1811 introduced during the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte.

John Butterfield’s business, in the main, was a wheel and wagon works. One business that was worked upon was the manufacture of showman’s’ vans and gypsy caravans. These were beautifully executed with rich carvings and ornamentation. Before the beginning of World War I, many trades played regular, but still casual, role in providing the requirements of funerals. Joiners and cabinetmakers were asked if they could make a coffin, upholsterers also would provide the padding. Those who ran transport and cab businesses would be called on for the odd funeral.

The workers from left to right: John Butterfield standing on the box, Charles with a plane in his hand, 2 unidentified workers, George with hammer, John with sledge hammer, unidentified worker and Elijah. Note the quality of the vehicle in the background which looks like a gypsy caravan.

Reputations, however, were steadily built up and those who provided the best services, the finest coffins and the most grandly turned out carriages would find business coming their way on a regular basis. Being Yorkshire folk, price would also play a part – people wanted a dignified grand send off, but also at a fair price.

John’s first premises were on Charles Street, Swinton, and, interestingly, during that period he was called upon to carry out joinery work on some newly built properties on nearby Wood Street, Swinton. A builder called Wilkinson was constructing these terraced houses. Little would it be realised that, in future, these properties would become the future base of a much enlarged business to be owned by John Butterfield and five generations of his family. During these early days, John and Ann had five children and fortunately, all the children survived. They were: -

Each of the sons assisted John in all aspects of the business, building wagons, driving duties, funerals, carting and delivery work. The 1901 trade index for Swinton notes Butterfield Brothers trading as smiths on Station Street. George Butterfield is listed as a grocer at 66 Fitzwilliam Street & John Butterfield is described as a wheelwright on Wood Street. So by this time we have evidence that the business was firmly established on the Wood Street site. It had sufficient space behind the terraced property for the wheel and wagon works and it boasted a blacksmith’s forge and shoeing shed in a converted house.

An adjacent plot of land was rented from the Earl Fitzwilliam’s Estate, which was based in Wentworth some 5 miles away. This plot was used to graze the company’s horses.

In the years before World War I, the business traded as Butterfield Brothers and John took a back seat as he became older. Each of the sons had become tradesmen in their own right. George was a blacksmith, Charles a joiner and wheelwright, John was also a blacksmith and farrier and Elijah was a painter and signwriter. Demands of war led to the break up of the joint enterprise. George went to work at the Mexborough Locomotive Depot, John to Manvers Main Colliery and Elijah to Denaby Colliery.

Charles Thompson was left to run the business alone, and the enterprise became C. T. Butterfield. (The First World War was to deprive him of his son Percy. He was to die of chest wounds on 10th October 1918, while serving in the 7th Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regiment. He is buried at Rocquigum Road, Commonwealth Ward Graves Cemetery in the Bapaune and Peronne Area of Northern France and is commemorated on Swinton’s War Memorial.)

Chapter Five: Growing up in the “trade”, the “Laying out Ladies”, and into the modern era.

The year 1918 saw the end of the Great War. It is impossible to say with any accuracy the final human cost of the slaughter. Russia lost 3 million dead before leaving the war to suffer famine & further bloodshed in her civil war. The AustroHungarian Empire lost at least 1.2 million dead and 3.6 million wounded. The empire also ceased to exist and due to the collapse of its administrative structures, many of the casualty returns were incomplete. German figures are also uncertain, but the estimate was 1.9 million dead and 4.3 million wounded. France recorded 1.4 million dead or missing out of a total 5 million casualties. Italy’s dead totalled 460,000, and Turkey had an estimated 2.3 million. The USA, a latecomer to the war sustained 326,0000 casualties, of whom 116,000 died. The British Empire suffered 3.2 million casualties, of whom almost a million were recorded as dead or missing, 745,000 of these from the United Kingdom.

These are staggering figures, and behind each figure lay a personal and family tragedy. The country was full of people injured in mind and body. Some of those who were wounded or gassed never recovered and had greatly shortened lives. They left thousands of widows and orphans, many home lost their breadwinner.

Further to this, 1918 saw the worldwide epidemic of Spanish Flu, which took more lives than were lost on the battlefields. In many ways, the world would never be the same again; attitudes to death and funeral traditions were looked on differently. Gone was much of the elaboration of massed ostrich feathers, yards of black crepe, the wearing of mourning clothing for months. The needless mutes would also have to find alternative employment. The attitudes of the Victorian era may have been held on to by the older generation, but were increasingly looked on as outdated by the generation which had fought in and supplied the war effort.

Charles Thompson Butterfield was left in charge of the business. He was married to Lillian (née Haigh), with 6 children to support.

There were also twins who died at birth, and Charles in addition had three children to his first wife, Henrietta; Reg, Percy and Ida. Percy, as has already been stated had been killed in the war.

I went along to interview Alfred Butterfield who in 2003 was the only surviving son, then aged 91. His sister Mildred is the only surviving daughter. Alfred has a wonderful warm voice, a sharp mind and many memories. He is an excellent primary source of information concerning the profession of funeral director throughout the twentieth century. He only fully retired around the late 1990’s.

Alfred was born on 11th September 1912, which was ST. Ledger Day at the Doncaster Racecourse, some 9 miles away. Mrs. Platt of Wortley Avenue, Swinton, delivered him into this world. Mrs Platt was one those local women who could be called upon to act as unqualified midwives or to act as “laying out ladies”. Almost every street had one of these matronly ladies, Alfred recalls Mrs Denton in Charles Street, Mrs Moore of Queen Street, and a Mrs Long. As a child remember being told that my grandmother, Mrs. Dobson used to “lay them out” in the Rowms Lane area of Swinton. When a death occurred in the street, the “laying out lady” would be the first to be told of the death by the family. She would go to the house, wash the body, and dress the deceased in clothing chosen by the family, this was often nightwear. The undertaker would then be contacted and would take to the house an appropriately sized, coffin shaped, laying out board, together with trestles to stand the board on.

The board and trestles would often be set up in the front room, though if there was limited space, the body, on the board, might remain on the bed, staying there till the day of the funeral. The undertaker would take measurements or use his experienced eyes, and return to his premises to make the coffin. The coffin would be ready in a couple of days, and would be delivered to the house. Alfred recalls that many bodies were left laid out in rooms where the rest of the family continues to live, eat and sleep. The body would be covered with a white sheet; friends, family and neighbours would visit over subsequent days to say their goodbyes. Funeral almost always left from the deceased’s home. The coffin would be carried by family members or friends, the undertaker would preside over the proceedings, also providing drivers and transportation when necessary. Alfred Butterfield recalls driving funeral coaches before he left school. Like the rest of the Butterfield children, he attended Bridge Street Board School. During his younger days, the business continued to carry out repairs and maintenance on the Ward Minerals Waters Ltd fleet of motor lorries. The firm provided transport for outings such as visits to the races, school trips and chapel outings. There was a great tradition of Whitsuntide parades (whit walks), and the company would provide decorated wagons, free of charge, for these events. Gradually, however, between the wars, the funeral service took prominence, and became the Butterfield’s speciality.

The company expanded its own fleet of horse drawn vehicles and was very regularly called upon as carriagemasters for 10 or more other undertakers. Not all undertakers had their own transport; some did not even have their own hearse. Coach and carriage work was provided for undertakers such as Tommy Williams of Wharf Road, Kilnhurst. Tommy had in fact served his time with the Butterfields before starting up on his own.

Transport was provided for funerals as far away as Askern near Doncaster. This was an all day job, with an early start to prepare the horses. At the time, the firm owned 20 horses. A stop for rest and refreshment for both men and beasts was taken at a suitable hostelry en route. There was also a special vehicle called the family bus.

Alfred Butterfield, 1926, aged 14 years, in the driving seat of a cab. The horse’s name was Peacock a typical black, Belgium horse bred specially for the funeral trade. Peacock had an exceptionally long tail which reached the ground. Note the shiny blacking on its hooves.

This was drawn by four horses and carried the coffin and immediate family together. Strangely this was only used in the Rawmarsh area, according to Alfred.

Incidentally, the work at this time was often seven days a week, with Sunday funerals still being a regular event.

Alfred recalls other funerals, which were referred to as “walking jobs”. These were the funerals of children. Charles Thompson Butterfield would lead the walking procession, carrying the child’s coffin under one arm, the box resting on his hip. The walk could have been up to a mile from the child’s home to the Parish Church. He could not change arms, and Alfred recall that there was sometimes blood running down his trouser leg where the coffins edge had rubbed away the flesh on his side. Charles must have been an amazingly strong man to maintain this stance in full view of the mourners and passersby.

This was drawn by four horses and carried the coffin and immediate family together. Strangely this was only used in the Rawmarsh area, according to Alfred.

Incidentally, the work at this time was often seven days a week, with Sunday funerals still being a regular event.

Alfred recalls other funerals, which were referred to as “walking jobs”. These were the funerals of children. Charles Thompson Butterfield would lead the walking procession, carrying the child’s coffin under one arm, the box resting on his hip. The walk could have been up to a mile from the child’s home to the Parish Church. He could not change arms, and Alfred recall that there was sometimes blood running down his trouser leg where the coffins edge had rubbed away the flesh on his side. Charles must have been an amazingly strong man to maintain this stance in full view of the mourners and passersby.

Chapter Six What about the workers?

A local resident who is able to provide us with a living link with the earliest days of the Butterfield business is Walter Dobbs. When I met with Walt in September 2003, he was 101 years old, with many vivid memories of all aspects of old Swinton. Walt lived, as a child, opposite the Butterfield’s premises in a house rented by his parents on Wood Street. His father represents another example of how South Yorkshire’s industrial boom time brought migrants to the area. Mr. Dobbs senior came from rural Norfolk in about 1880 to seek work in the coalfields.

When Walt was a child, he recalls the Smithy, then John Butterfield’s house with Charles’ dwelling next to that. A family called Lawton had the last house on the row, and another Butterfield also lived on the same street.

Every morning, John Butterfield’s sons would gather at his house to be given details of their day’s work, either funerals, transport jobs or work in the yard.

A two-horse hearse departs from the Wood Street premises to pick up a coffin and it’s occupant from a private house. The driver is Alf Barlow.

A cortege travels down Station Road, Swinton passing the junction of Wood Street. The bearers walk alongside the hearse in this 1926/7 view.

Walt was the errand lad. Maggie, Charles Thompson Butterfield’s daughter, generally allocated his duties. He would be given a shopping list to visit the Barnsley British Cooperative (Swinton Branch), Dawson’s Pork shop, Mackenzie’s Confectioners and other local retailers.

Walt clearly recalls the vehicle building in full operation, including hearse making, cab building and the construction of large wagonettes. When he grew a little older, Walt became a keen footballer and cricketer – the wagonettes were used to convey teams to their away fixtures.

At this time, the area still retained some rural characteristics. The Butterfields kept poultry, ducks, pigs and even had six cows sharing the grazing land with the black Belgiumbred funeral horses. The cows were driven daily to graze on open land at the bottom of Crossland Street, Swinton. This was a job usually carried out by John Butterfield Junior.

A further less useful but possibly more amusing addition to the menagerie was John and Ann Butterfields large pet parrot. The parrot had an extensive vocabulary especially of swear words. One morning, Charles Thompson had just received his day’s work; the parrot happily squawked “Hello Charlie, Hello Charlie”. Charles, rather bad temperedly, shouted to the parrot “Go to Hell.” – much to the amusement of young Walt. Clearly the job given out by John was not his favourite.

One morning young Billy Butterfield , then only a toddler foolishly poked his finger in the parrot’s cage. The inevitable happened and the blessed parrot promptly pecked off the offending fingernail. Billy’s nail never grew back and the finger caused him problems intermittently for the rest of his life.

A funeral around 1919/20.Charles Thompson Butterfield stands facing the camera in the top hat. Note the white gloves worn by him and the bearers. Charles is the only staff member visible. The drivers would remain with the transport that would be parked along the road. Bearers at this time would friends or relatives of the deceased. The coffin stands at the entrance to St. Margaret’s Churchyard on trestles made by Charles. These were kept leaning against the boundary wall in these more law abiding days. The photograph was taken for the benefit of relatives of the deceased, who were living in Australia, to reassure them that the funeral was carried out with all solemnity.

Billy Butterfield stands next to the company’s second car. This was a Renault purchased from High Melton Hall, near Doncaster. On this occasion, both the car and Billy are decked out for a wedding transport.

Walt remembers, on once occasion, taking part in a ‘walking job’ himself. As has been stated, the ‘walking jobs’ were children’s funerals. Walt was asked, along with his friend Douglas Revill, to carry the coffin of a child from Station Street to the Parish Church. They were about 9 years old at the time and the request came from the child’s family. This must have been a poignant sight – these two young boys carrying the small coffin through the streets.

Walt was educated at Swinton Bridge School. He left at the age of 12 years, receiving a Certificate from the head teacher, Mr. Marshall. His first job was at Swinton’s Glass works – he then went to work at Warren Vale Colliery at 14 years. The walk to the coalface was three miles, according to Walt. At the age of 18 years, Walt started work at Mexborough Locomotive Sheds, where he was to remain for 44 years, becoming a driver. He recalls George Butterfield working at the shed as a blacksmith. He was just too young to see service in the First World War, but he did try to enlist at Pontefract. His father brought him back home. Walt remembers very old men still working in both the pits and on the railways. One driver on the yard pilot duties was 80 years old. There were no old age pensions; there was no retirement age. People worked till they dropped or until they could toil no more.

Walt’s further contact with the Butterfield business was in later years – supplying the firm with his homegrown flowers for both weddings and funerals.

Chapter Seven:
The Second World War

World War II was a time of great shortages. The Butterfields retained a regular supply of timber from the Wentworth Saw Mills. Then, as now, the estate had considerable forestry resources and regular wagonloads of wood were collected for the manufacture of coffins.

On the night of the 1213th December 1940, wave after wave of German bombers dropped deadly loads of incendiary and high explosive bombs across Sheffield. Huge areas of the city were hit, fractured gas mains fed the flames, and entire blocks of buildings became blazing infernos. The city centre was particularly badly hit one building that was totally destroyed was the seven story Marple’s Hotel. Between 60 and 70 people were killed in that one building alone, but the true number of victims will never be known, as only fourteen of the dead could be identified. A further German attack took place three days later. In total 668 civilians and 25 military personnel were killed during air attacks on Sheffield. A further 92 persons were classed as “missing”, while almost 600 citizens were injured. With death and destruction on this scale, the city’s undertakers were overwhelmed, and had to request help from the outlying areas. Butterfields were called upon to manufacture 20 coffins very quickly for the Brightside and Carbrook Cooperative Society to enable blitz victims to have decent burials. Many victims were interred in the vast City Road Cemetery, and in the old General Cemetery in Sharrow.

The war reached out to the firms staff and Alfred was called up for military service in December 1941 at the age of 29. He was to serve 4 years in the Royal Army Medical Corps as a medical orderly, firstly in the North African Campaigns with the 8th Army. Once Rommel’s Afrika Korps had been defeated in Africa, Alfred saw further service in the Italian theatre. The end of the war found him in Belgium.

28 The army was quick to recognise his peacetime profession. In addition to his medical orderly duties, he was called on to assist the pathologists in the military hospitals. Soldiers dying in military hospitals were required to have postmortem examinations in order to determine the cause of death for the forces’ records. It was necessary to record, for example, whether a soldier’s death was attributable to disease or to wounds. Inevitably, Alfred would assist with subsequent military funerals. During his war service, his mother, Charles’ wife, Lillian passed away in 1943.

Ronald Butterfield was also on active army service in the Royal Army Medical Corps. Ronald saw action on the island of Crete which was subject to a mass paratroop invasion in 1941. Much heavy fighting occurred on the island between the defending allied troops (made up of British, New Zealanders, Australians and Creeks soldiers) and the German paratroops and air landed mountain forces. Casualties were high on both sides, with the lightly armed German paratroopers experiencing a particular mauling.

At the time of Crete’s eventual surrender, Ronald was taken prisoner along with many of his brave colleagues – he was to spend the rest of the war ‘behind the wire’ of a Prisoner of War Camp. During his confinement, he was able to keep up a limited and highly censored correspondence with his family in Swinton. He became an enthusiastic participant in camp sporting events and concerts. His previous trade was recognised and inevitably he was involved in the arrangements when a P.O.W. died in the camp.

Ronald with his mother, Lillian and older sister Lillian

British Empire soldiers who died in captivity were accorded funerals with military honours by the German authorities. It was not the case with Russian P.O.W.’s however, those who died of starvation, disease or maltreatment were simply thrown into a hole and buried, their numbers are unknown.

At the war’s end, the United Kingdom was desperately short of tradesmen, especially to fulfil the ambitious housebuilding programme that was a key component of the manifesto of the newly elected Labour Government under Clement Atlee. Alfred applied for early release, and as a time served joiner he was allowed to return to “civvy street” to help in the postwar house building boom. This first job after discharge was with the Oscar Weaver Construction Company, building homes in the Herringthorpe area of Rotherham. The journey though Herringthorpe was one Alfred would be taking many, many times in the future, as this was to be the chosen location of Rotherham Crematorium, built in the early 1960’s.

Back in Swinton, Charles Thompson Butterfield had sold the last of the company's horses during the war years. The last horse drawn hearse was put into storage in the stables area. Another significant event around this time was the purchase of the land previously rented from the Wentworth Estate.

Ronald Butterfield

Chapter Eight: Memorialisation

Through the years, the company has developed close working relationships with local monumental masons. Tyas & Guest is a name, which immediately brings images of memorialisation to people in the Swinton area. In the 1901 trade directory for Swinton, Tyas & Guest have an entry as marble merchants of Station Street and John E. Tyas is resident at ‘Claremont’, Station Street.

Memorialisation of the dead is almost as old as mankind. Think of the pyramids in Egypt. Closer to home, there are Iron Age burial mounds in Wath Wood and finds of Roman gravestones in Templeborough, Rotherham. The spread of Christianity had a simple code of memorialisation for many centuries. However, during the Middle Ages, the tombs of the great, the powerful and the wealthy became magnificent once more. Within many English cathedrals we see the splendid tombs within them to Bishops and the nobility.

Burial inside of religious buildings was deemed a great honour, the near the altar the better. Memorial stones are visible in our older churches with good examples throughout the Yorkshire area

An example of the Memorial Mason’s skill a shrouded urn.

This, however, was a grossly unhygienic practice and, during the summer months especially, the stench of rotting bodies permeated the buildings. Clergymen were given specific fees to trample the bones to enable more internments to take place.

It was only when the insides of the churches became full that gravestones began to be seen outside. Still, they were only for the rich. However, greater prosperity and the rise of the middle class during the industrial revolution, created the desire for memorialisation to spread. The memorial industry was ready to meet this demand and firms like Tyas & Guest excelled in craftsmanship. The range of memorials available could suit all tastes and most pockets apart from the poorest.

Monumental masons could cater for almost any request but, in general, would follow standard symbolic carvings:

Anchor = Hope or a sailor
Arch/Gate = Entry to heaven
Butterfly = Resurrection
Broken column = A life cut short
Clover Leaf = The Holy Trinity
Cross (Celtic) = Immortality
Cross (Latin) = Christianity
Cross (on 3 steps) = The Holy Trinity or Faith, Hope & Charity (Elvis Presley’s “3 Steps to Heaven”)
Cross (Maltese) = Bravery
Cross (St. Andrews) = Martyrdom
Crown = Reward in Heaven
Dove = Peace
Hourglass = Sands of Time Running Out
Ivy = Remembrance or friendship
Lamb = Purity – often used for children
Laurels = Fame
Lily = Purity
Ouroboros = Resurrection (snake eating its own tail)
Palm = Victory
Passion Flower = The Passion of Jesus Christ
Phoenix = I will rise again from death
Rose = Sweetness or the Virgin Mary
Scythe = Cut Down
Shell = Pilgrimage
Skull = Death (with or without crossbones)
Sword = Victory, Justice or Mercy
Upturned torch = Death
Urn = Ashes, Death
Violets = Humility
Wheat = Fruitfulness or Gathered in
Willow = Weeping, Grief

Curbing around graves was popular but is now discouraged due to problems with grounds maintenance. (Further to this point, the days of ‘anything goes’ in respect of memorialisation have ended. Churchyards and cemeteries have regulations about memorials. Some places are stricter than others about what can go on graves and gravestones.)

Butterfields have been providing their own memorials since 1973.

Letter cutting is a great skill. There are detailed characteristics to each letter cutter’s work almost like individual handwriting. When inscriptions on the same gravestone are many years apart the experience eye can recognise subtle differences between one craftsman’s work & that of the next generation.

33 Modern engraving and sand blasting techniques now allow a whole new range of images to be reproduced on memorials. The choice available is almost unlimited, examples include regimental badges, football club badges, transport themes, angling scenes, toys, and the list goes on. Advice on words and images, however, should always be obtained before ordering.

A walk around any churchyard or cemetery can reveal a huge amount of information. It can represent a history of the community told in stone and marble.

It is, of course, possible and popular for people to choose a living memorial. Rose bushes, wild life area, trees, bulb planting, are all available, sometimes in the ground of a crematorium, with a nameplate. Most recently, information technology is now being employed to create books of remembrance on the Internet. I wonder what Tyas & Guest would have made of this.

The Dobson Vault in St. Margaret’s Churchyard the largest memorial in this nine acre churchyard is a Tyas and Guest construction which must have cost a small fortune.

Chapter Nine: Floral Tributes

Flowers have appeared in ancient images of funerals, often in the form of garlands. After the middle Ages, the custom of floral tributes seems to have declined in many areas. In the 18th Century, evergreens were more fashionable than flowers. It was, once again, that the Victorian period showed the way and the art of the florist came into prominence. The flowers for Queen Victoria’s funeral are said to have cost £80,000 at 1901 prices. Tributes were enormous – one wreath being 7 ft. high and a floral recreation of the Royal Standard in violets was 5 ft. x 9 in.

Florists became and still are experts in turning flowers into works of art. Along with traditional crosses and wreaths the florist can, by wiring, dyeing and working the plants, produce a vast array of tributes. Names can be spelt out, sporting equipment created, cushions, books and badges in all colours, to name but a few.

Orchids are the traditional funeral flowers, carnation can be very useful, spring offers daffodils, summer gives us roses and we have chrysanthemums in autumn. Hothouse plants are available, but these cost more and may not last very long.

The Funeral Director needs to know the arrangements for the flowers, delivery needs to be coordinated and appropriate transport organised. Currently local florists supply catalogues to Butterfield’s who will then place the order, although people are also able to make private arrangements directly.

Chapter Ten: Embalming

A further professional development has been the process of embalming. The origins of embalming originate in ancient civilisations such as Egypt where it was believed that the soul would live in paradise for just as long as the mummy survived in its tomb. Preservation of the corpse became obsessive and expensive. Techniques were practised and developed over a thousand years to achieve perfection. Knowledge of the embalming process was retained but not often used, only on such occasions as when a great personage was to lie in state. In the middle Ages, deceased nobles were sometimes pickled, especially when the body was to be returned from the Holy lands. Sometimes knights and nobles killed while on crusade were boiled to remove the flesh. Their bones then could be safely and hygienically returned for burial in their homeland.

It was another conflict that was to bring the embalmer’s art into the mainstream once again – that conflict was the American Civil War. Draining of blood and body fluids and the use of arterial injection of preservatives was developed. Many relatives demanded the return of the bodies of dead soldiers who had perished on remote battlefields.

Embalmers sprang up and they became a familiar camp follower, sometimes having their own wagons, signwritten advising of their services.

At the end of the American Civil War President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by a sympathiser of the defeated southern states John Wilkes Booth. President Lincoln’s body was embalmed and taken from Washington D.C. by train to his hometown in Illinois. The train stopped at every sizable station enroute where crowds of people gathered to view the late President. Most were very impressed at how well preserved Abe’s body looked and the funeral train journey ended up as a sort of promotional tour of the embalmers art.

36 People were most impressed at what embalming was able to achieve and, by the 1880’s in the USA, embalming had become commonplace and expected. Then, as now, trends in America were followed in Britain and the art of the embalmer crossed the Atlantic. This gave further challenges and opportunities to the funeral profession and helped to develop further specialism in services offered. Some 60 years after the death of Abraham Lincoln, on another continent geographically and on another planet politically another deceased statesman received the best that the embalmer could do – that person was Vladimir Illich Lenin.

The death of Lenin sparked fears among the Soviet leadership that the revolutionary government in the new state they had call the Union of Soviet Socialists Republics could be overthrown. They determined that a cult of personality and reverence for Lenin would help to weld the nation together. Lenin’ s body was embalmed and placed in an elaborate mausoleum in Red Square right in the heart of Moscow. The body is kept within a glass case with a controlled atmosphere to prevent decay. Since Lenin ‘s death millions of people have filed past his body which has lain in state since the 1920’s. In 1941 when the forces of Germany and her allies were only a few miles from Moscow plans were in place to evacuate the body, however a combination of Russia’s severe winter and the determination of her armed forces ensured that this was not necessary. Lenin’s body lies on public display to this day in an amazing state of preservation, recently however there were concerns that one leg was showing signs of decomposition. The new democratic government of Russia has been considering the possibility of removing Lenin’s body lies on public display to this day its mausoleum and burying it adjacent to the Kremlin Palace wall.

This would represent a major break with the past and could cause quite a political upheaval especially with the older generation.

To return to Yorkshire, Alfred Butterfield told me that he knew of very little demand for the service of embalming in the Yorkshire area during his professional life.

Today Brian Butterfield is one of the few fully qualified embalmers in the South Yorkshire area. He obtained his qualification in 1970 after 18 months of study and training in Birmingham and Hartlepool. Brian is a Member of the British Institute of Embalming (M.B.I.E.). Embalming is only carried out if requested or required in the opinion of the professional and would always be subject to discussion.

Chapter Eleven:
The Growth of Cremation

From the founding and early days of the company to the present day, the availability of cremation and increasing acceptance as a means of disposal has marked a very significant shift in public attitudes.

Around 120 years ago, cremation in the UK was virtually unknown and was, in fact, illegal before 1884. This is surprising, as cremation has been widespread around the world for a very long time in many cultures. Roman cemeteries, when excavated, have given up vessels containing cremated remains alongside the remains of those who were buried. This was also the case in the Greek world. In the Book of Genesis, Abraham is ordered by God to prepare a funeral pyre for his son, Isaac. The spread of Christianity, with the belief in resurrection resulted in burial becoming the accepted cultural norm. I recall my Grandmother – a Yorkshire born lass – saying: “Jesus was buried, so I will be too.” This was a belief she held in the 1970’s.

Cremation pioneers in the Victorian period had a great struggle in promoting the advantages of cremation. They were ridiculed, reviled and sometimes attacked physically. Many British citizens served in India during the days of the Empire in both the military & civilian imperial services. Almost all would have witnessed cremations carried out amongst the native population; the Hindu religion for example always cremates the dead. On their return home some campaigned for the right to choose cremation as an alternative to burial, they were dismissed as having spent too much time out in the sun or that they had “ gone native “. The practice was still to be fround upon by a very conservative British public for many years and most undertakers would simply not get involved for fear of losing their reputations.

The first crematorium in the UK was set up in Woking in 1879. It was not allowed to cremate its first human body until 1885. From then on, the spread of cremation was still very slow. In 1934 there were only 8,337 cremations. The first cremation conducted by Butterfields was on 21st November 1931 at Sheffield City Road Crematorium.

The individual was Sidney Montagu Hatherley who died at his home, Cliffield House Swinton, aged 27 years. Sidney had been living in France for some time returning home when he fell ill. His ashes were strewn in the grounds of the crematorium. Sidney was the son of the prominent local doctor S.O. Hatherley. Dr. Hatherley served as Swinton’s Medical Officer of Health from 1910 till 1948. During his term of appointment significant improvements to public health were achieved especially to the town’s water supply and sewage disposal arrangements. Further duties of the post included conducting post mortem examinations on those whose death arose some cause for question. Dr Hatherley had frequent working relationships with all the local undertakers.

To return however to general story of cremationby 1940 there were 54 crematoria in the land dealing with around 9% of funerals. After the Second World War, however, the practice caught on and between 1947 to 1967 a position was reached whereby more funerals were being concluded in cremation then burial. This trend continued into the 1990’s. However, the situation has levelled out now.

According to the Cremation Society of Great Britain’s website, there are now 246 crematoria operating in the country, with numerous schemes for new buildings under consideration. Most crematoria were opened in the 1950’s and 1960’s, for example, Rotherham (East Herringthorpe) in 1962, Doncaster (Rosehill) in 1960, Barnsley (Ardsley) in 1962.

Of the three Sheffield crematoria, City Road was opened as early as 1905, Hutcliffe Wood in 1974, and Grenoside as recently as 1998. The City of Leeds was also early in the provision of a crematorium, with Lawnswood 1905.

In the year 2000, approximately 437,600 cremation took place in this country, which represents 70.9% of all funerals.

Chapter Twelve: Transportation

The word “Hearse” originates from the French and in the Middle Ages meant a harrow. From 1650, the word has been used to describe the vehicle for carrying a coffin.

Down the centuries, various elaborate structures were made to carry coffins.Sometimes these were hired from churches.

Really interesting hearses were made in Britain, Europe and USA during the 19th Century. They were extensively decorated in gothic or baroque styles. Special black horses were bred in Belgium for the funeral trade. If the horses were not black enough, they would be dyed and their hooves were always blacked. The horses would wear black velvet covers and black harness trimmed with silver.

Some undertakers kept small white hearses for children’s funerals.

The age of motor transport arrives

The very well off owned their own carriages and would follow the hearse in these. Most people, however, would rely on transport arranged by the undertaker which was either his own or supplied by contractors.

Today, horse drawn hearses and mourning carriages are making a comeback. We have seen a number of these locally. In the main, however, the funeral industry was as quick as the rest of society to recognise the advantages of motor vehicles. Between the wars, cars steadily superseded the horse. Simplicity became more the fashion and funeral transportation followed the similar designs to normal private cars. Today’s hearses are just like large estate cars; while the stretched limo’s used for the following cars would look just at home conveying wedding guests or V.I.P.’s.

It is essential that the funeral directors’ fleet is valeted and maintained to the highest standards. The last thing needed is a breakdown during the funeral.

The vehicles need to be well driven by people who are experienced in manoeuvring long vehicles around sometimes very tight driveways in churchyards, cemetery and crematoria. Driver/Bearers should be uniformed. Pinstripe trousers are traditional, while some companies have opted for modern cut dark suits or blazers and slacks. John Heath’s, the large Sheffield based company of Funeral Directors, has its driver/bearers dressed in smart dark green uniforms with white shirts and black ties.

Increasingly more female staff are working in the trade, so skirts and jackets can also be expected. As has been previously stated, Butterfields sold their last horses during WWII, and the modernisation of their vehicle fleet was a gradual process. Horsepower and motor power existed side by side for some 20 years or so. The firm obtained it’s first motor vehicle in the early 1920’s, a second hand Austin Landerlett, hand built in 1911 and very popular as a wedding car, once suitable bedecked with white ribbons.

Cars were very expensive at the time, and this purchase represented a considerable investment, Gradually, however, the methods of mass production introduced in to the automotive industry by Henry Ford ensured that more motor vehicles became available at more affordable prices. The motor vehicle fleet expanded and more people requested this type of transport for funerals. An Austin Marston Hearse and Austin Limousines followed on.

David Butterfield takes charge at the funeral of his Uncle William (Billy) in 1991. The event, with the use of the horse drawn hearse, was memorable not only for the family but for many in the local community.

Over the years the family have not been averse to building their own vehicles. It will be recalled that horse drawn van building was an early craft. Charles Thompson Butterfield built his own hearse. Interestingly, this skill came in useful during relatively recent times. It was possible to purchase direct from the factory vehicles of which there was only an engine and chassis provided. The firm took the opportunity of obtaining an Austin Princess in this condition in 196465. The Butterfields then went on to build this vehicle into a Hears in their own workshops in Swinton.

In 1939 the firm purchased a new Rolls Royce hearse. This was a very significant outlay, but clearly was not only a working vehicle but also a statement of quality and style. This type of vehicle would always hold a good part of it’s price, and find a ready market when the time came to sell it on.

The 1970’s saw the company using the then popular Austin Princess as both hearse and limos.

Currently the fleet is made up of Daimlar Sovereign and represents a value of around £250,000. The hearse has the advantage of being able to carry a full crew of at least four bearers, due to the bench seat behind the driving position. This is very useful at single car funerals (hearse only), as it avoids the needs of a second car for staff and ensures that the crew arrive at the destination together. The vehicle carries a range of equipment stored beneath the coffin platform, including such items as lowering straps, tressels and coffin blocks. This is to ensure that all that is needed at the grave side is to hand should it not be supplied by the burial ground authority.

AVolvo estate is retained for informal transport, and a Ford Transit van for the memorial work.

Chapter Thirteen:
In to the Modern Era

The 1950’s saw the company trading as C.T. Butterfield & Sons. The sons were William (Billy), Alfred and Ronald. Charles Thompson Butterfield passed away on 4th November 1956, aged 79 years, although his name continues to live on through the company.

The post war years were a time of significant social change, the effects of which could not leave the funeral business untouched. At the end of the war, the country was exhausted and broke. Rationing did not disappear until 1954, but as the austerity of the early post war period receded, people started to become more affluent. South Yorkshire during the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s had plenty of employment opportunities, with the chance to earn good money. Heavy industry dominated, through coal mining and steel manufacture. The supply chains of these industries generated further wealth. The consumer society had arrived; people were purchasing household goods such as washing machines, fridges, irons, and other labour saving devices. Swinton boasted the largest electric cooker factory in the empire, with over 1,000 people employed at the General Electric Company. Television sets began appearing in more and more living rooms, spreading ideas across the nation, communities ceased to be as isolated and inward looking.

Dramatic changes were being experienced in the field of public health. Slum housing was being swept away and replaced with modern housing in both the public and private sectors. These new houses had inside toilets, hot & cold running water, and fitted bathrooms. The water supply was improved in terms of distribution and hygiene. Decent houses and safe water have been the two most significant contributors to public health and well being. The population continued to rise – in 1953 Swinton had a population of 12,120. By this time the death rate had fallen to 11.39 per 1,000 and this had been overtaken by a birth rate of 1774 per 1,000. There was much truth in the old saying “new house, new baby” at the time.

When people did fall ill the National Health Service formed in 1948 was there to treat them. Citizens did not need to fear that illness or accident would cause financial as well as physical misery. The doctor’s bill was paid for by the state and hospital treatment was there when needed.

Hospital admissions increased as the variety of treatments and therapies available in them widened. Home nursing declined, the old reliance on extended family and neighbours reduced. More people died in hospitals, fewer died at home.

Attitudes to death changed, death became more detached. Dramatic reductions in infant mortality meant that the death of a child was a tragic event for many beyond the immediate family. Hitherto this had been commonplace, with many almost expecting to loose a child to disease, especially the poor.

The practice of laying out at home, with the coffin kept in the front room receded, although it was retained by older people. I personally remember my grandfather’s body laying in his coffin in the front room of his bungalow in 1970.

The increasing trend was for the undertaker to collect the deceased from home or hospital, and attended to them until the day of the funeral. The cortege would then be marshalled at the funeral director’s premises, and call at the home of the deceased in order to pick up the principal mourners.

These changing customs prompted Butterfields to open a chapel of rest during the 1950’s.The room had formerly been the blacksmith’s shop, and was the first such facility outside of the major South Yorkshire towns.

In 1964, the business became a limited company.

A further development that occurred in the post war period was the con struction of new driveways and a turning circle at St Margaret’s Church, Swinton. This seems so familiar to us today, but it is a comparatively recent addition, which made a huge difference to funeral services held at that church. Prior to the installation of these driveways, the cortege would park on the main highway. The coffin would be removed from the hearse, and would be placed on a small bier, which would then be pushed to the church doors.

As traffic levels increased, at an unprecedented rate, this practice was causing much disruption along Swinton’s main through route. It was not only delaying traffic, but was quite a hazard to mourners and road users alike. Alfred Butterfield gives much credit for tackling this problem, and ensuring the driveways within the churchyard were widened to Swinton Urban District Councillor and County Alderman, Maurice Creighton. Alfred also recalls that Mr. Creighton’s was one of the first to be able to make use of the new arrangements.

Time moved on, and eventually, with the retirement of Billy, and Ronald it was time for the fourth generation of Butterfields to take on additional responsibilities. This came in the form of Billy’s son, Roland and Alfred’s son, Brian.

Modern headstone of Butterfield manufacture.

Unfortunately Roland had to retire earlier than planned due to health reasons in 1989. Brian’s son, David, had received his induction and joined the business in 1983. (Brian’s other son, Philip, is a teacher.) David obtained his Diploma from the National Association of Funeral Directors ( N.A.F.D.) in 1985 when he was just 18 yrs of age. The company by its commitment to continuous professional development has been awarded the coveted Licensed Member B.I.F.D. (British Institute of Funeral Directors). These qualifications are purely voluntary and are taken by the individual at their own expense.

The last coffins were made on site in 1990; they are now purchased direct from various

manufacturers. Local manufacture was stopped due in part to Health & Safety legislation & regulations governing the usage & storage of certain materials. It is of course important to remember that the funeral trade is not exempt from legislation designed to protect the workforce. Coffins should only be carried manually for only the shortest of distances; lifting & mechanical aids should be used as much as possible. Gone are the days of the long slow walking jobs.

The venerable Alfred Butterfield retired fully in 1999.

Today the firm has 7 full time employees, 2 part time and can also call on the services of 2 casual staff. Administration is taken care of by Doreen (Brian’s wife) and Susan (David’s wife). Company Directors are Brian, Doreen and David.

A recent further extension to the services offered has been the opening of a buffet room with catering facilities attached, the room can comfortably cope with around 30 persons for post funeral refreshments. The catering services, are subject to full commercial standards and inspection regimes.

Much use is made of computers and information technology for coordination of all arrangements.

Over the years the business has received many varied, and sometimes strange, requests for special arrangements at funerals. A few years ago, a New Orleans style jazz band had to be booked to play as they led the cortage. Increasingly, people are now choosing a whole range of music played in churches and crematoria, with everything from heavy rock to classical pieces. Music is something very special to many people invoking very personal memories.

This concludes a brief story of one of Swinton’s oldest and most highly respected businesses, one that has cared for many thousands of local people for more than a century, in their times of grief, stress and confusion.

C.T. Butterfield’s reputation is well deserved and has been built up by a family that have a true spirit of quality service.

As to the future, Brian is still going strong, but retirement many beckon sometime soon. David is a young man who clearly wishes to maintain the traditions of the business. He has a young family of school age children – who knows if someday they will become the 6th generation of the Butterfield family to continue the business. That is a decision, which will rest with them in the future.

Republished in 2024 to celebrate the 150th Year of C T Butterfield & Sons. Ken Wyatt takes us on a journey that follows the history of one of Yorkshire’s longest established family funeral directors. Along the way he reveals the changing culture of the northern funeral during the last 130 years.

Funeral Home, Offices and Memorial Showroom
01709 571 777
contactus@ctbutterfield.com
1-9 Wood Street, Swinton, Rotherham, S64 8BA

Funeral Home and Office
01709 555 534
info@ctbutterfields.com
Fellowsfield Way, Kimberworth, Rotherham, S61 1NL

A Yorkshire Undertaking

Introduction

Chapter One : 1870’s Swinton

Chapter Two: Victorian Funerals– Pomp & Circumstance

Chapter Three: Funeral Hospitality

Chapter Four: Early Days

Chapter Five: Growing up in the “trade”, the “Laying out Ladies”, and into the modern era.

Chapter Six What about the workers?

Chapter Seven: The Second World War

Chapter Eight: Memorialisation

Chapter Nine: Floral Tributes

Chapter Ten: Embalming

Chapter Eleven: The Growth of Cremation

Chapter Twelve: Transportation

Chapter Thirteen: In to the Modern Era

Chapter Seven:
The Second World War

Chapter Eleven:
The Growth of Cremation

Chapter Thirteen:
In to the Modern Era