Overcrowding in Ickornshaw
‘Damp walls and earthed up at the back to a depth of over a yard deep ‘(about a metre) was the description of a 1904 Ickornshaw house. “Ripe for renovation,” I here you say. But then it went on – ‘There are no gutters or fall pipes to the back or front and the roof is not in good condition’. “Well, not quite so promising, then.” – ‘There are no drains and water supply in the house ‘- “Whoops! “‘The ventilation in the house is not good. There is a pail-closet in a state of disrepair and an open enclosed ash pit next to it.’ “Luxury, but maybe I should re-look at that Acre Mill house then.”
In that year this house was condemned as ‘unfit for human habitation’ (no I don’t believe it), according to Dr Atkinson, who was the medical officer of health for this area. The clerk to the council was told to obtain an order to close the house.
This desirable property was occupied, rent free by Mr John Henry Bancroft and owned by Mr Ben Snowden of Fold Lane. The accommodation consisted of one living room and two bedrooms ( no on-suite). There were only NINE people living in it – a family of eight and their LODGER!
Information in bold researched by Moonrakers member: D Harker
