Documents relating to James Edward Whiteley

A Southowram Stalwart

The first sale of a passive resister's goods took place on Friday afternoon last, Southowram being the scene of a unique event.

The affair centred around the person of Mr James Edward Whiteley. The man appeared at Halifax West Riding Court charged with non-payment of poor rates to the extent of 5/3d. He was ordered to pay costs. This he refused to do, and the law took its course, goods were seized and Friday's sale was the result.

A large crowd gathered, mainly women. One gentleman circulated leaflets entitled

The Crusader's Catechism of Passive resistance

The Auctioneer, Mr William Worsnup described the affair as

a unique sale at Halifax

He did not know why Mr Whiteley required the sympathy of the crowd. He had mapped out his own course of action, and stood his ground, on his dignity, this was not an occasion for a big speech.

The items to be sold were a silver chain, a silver lever watch and a good brooch, to be sold as one lot. In the first minute there was no bid and Mr Worsnup intimated that he would start the sale with sixpence if they thought fit. A gentleman then offered 24/- and it was then sold for 26/-

The full amount required was £1 4/3d