Onging Research; last updated 8 February 2012
6th January 1909 – Minute of KN&N UDC
Mr Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
4. King’s Heath Park
(a) Staff
That they have considered the question of the staff which will be required at the King’s Heath Park, and are of opinion that it will be necessary to engage a park keeper and two assistant gardeners.
Applications have been received for these positions, your Committee interviewed several of the applicants, and they beg to recommend that Mr. Hubert Shuttleworth, aged 38 years, of 43 First Avenue, Selly Park (at present foreman landscape gardener in connection with the laying out of the grounds of the Birmingham University, Bournbrook), be appointed as Park Keeper, at the commencing wages of 25/- per week, with the use of the Lodge, rising by annual increments of 1/- per week to the maximum wages of 28/-k, the appointment to be subject to one month’s notice on either side. The wages are in accordance with the scale fixed by the Council at their meeting held on the 15th October, 1908.
By reason of the Park being opened on 12th December, 1908, it was thought necessary to appoint the two assistant gardeners before that date; and your Committee therefore appointed Mr. J.M. Reynolds, who was residing in King’s Heath House, and acting as caretaker and gardener until the park was conveyed to the Council; and Mr. George Finch, of 87 Silver Street, King’s Heath (who was in the employ of the Council as a stone spreader), the wages of Mr. Reynolds to be 20/- per week, with the use of a portion of King’s Heath House, until such time as the house is required for the purposes of a temporary school, when his wages will be 24/- per week, plus 6d per hour for work on Sundays, to commence duties on the 12th December, 1908, and the appointment to be subject to one week’s notice on either side; and the wages of Mr. Finch to be 23/- per week, plus 6d. per hour for work on Sundays, rising at the end of the first year’s service to the maximum wages of 24/- per week, plus 6d, per hour for work on Sundays, and the appointment to be subject to one week’s notice on either side.
The wages of Mr. Reynolds have been fixed at the maximum authorised by the approved scale on account of his special knowledge of the position of the drains and pipes in connection with the heating apparatus which run under the ground in various directions.
(b) Footpath
That they have given instructions for a footpath to be made from the entrance to the park in Avenue Road, nearly opposite Grange Road, to the main drive.
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It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, seconded by Mr. Councillor Coley, and resolved:-
3. That Mr. Hubert A. Shuttleworth, of 43 First Avenue, Selly Park, be appointed park-keeper of the King’s Heath park, at the commencing wages of 25/- per week, with the use of the lodge, rising by annual; increments of 1/-per week to the maximum wages of 28/- per week, the appointment to be subject to one month’s notice on either side.
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, seconded by Mr. Councillor Coley, and resolved:-
4. That the report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee be approved and adopted.
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Mr Councillor Qinney presented the following report of the Education Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
11. Temporary Accommodation at King’s Heath
That they have received from the Board of Education official sanction for the use of King’s Heath House as a temporary day school. They have received and considered the following tenders for the alteration and renovation of certain rooms and the erection of out-offices:-
Mr. W.J. Morris, King’s Heath £125 0 0
Messrs. Robinson & Son, King’s Heath £124 0 0
Mr. A. Curson, King’s Heath £115 19 0
Mr. C. A. Price, King’s Heath £113 7 0
Mr. T.A. Smith, Moseley £103 0 0
Mr. F.L. Gibbs, King’s Heath £102 8 8
Mr. G.T. Stopher, King’s Heath £94 0 0
Mr. J. Harper, Birmingham £92 14 0
Mr. W. Cowen, King’s Heath £88 12 6
and they beg to recommend that the tender of Mr. Cowan, amounting to £88 12s. 6d., be accepted.
Your Committee have also considered tenders for providing and fixing steel hopper ventilators to the windows of the rooms to be occupied as class-rooms, as follows:-
Messrs. H. Hope & Son, Birmingham £14 6 9
Messrs. Middleton & Jones, King’s Heath £13 1 0
Mr. C.W. Dyson, King’s Heath £8 14 6
and have accepted the tender of Mr. C.W. Dyson.
The question as to the employment of a caretaker of the house has been under consideration by the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee of the Council, but it is considered best for the Education Committee to take over the premises and to appoint a person to act as caretaker under their direction.
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It was moved by Mr. Councillor Quinney, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Bishop, and resolved:-
10. That the tender of Mr. W. Cowen, of King’s Heath, in the sum of £88 12s. 6d., for the alteration and renovation of certain rooms at the King’s Heath House, and the erection of additional out-offices, be accepted, subject to his entering into a contract to be prepared by the clerk, and that the common seal of the Council be affixed to such contract.
9th January 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council
Baths and Parks
Councillor George Shann presented the report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee ............ Recommendations were submitted for the appointment of a park-keeper and two assistants at Kings Heath Park. A footpath is to be made from the entrance to the park in Avenue Road (nearly opposite Grange Road) to the main drive. ........................
Replying to Councillor Hayes, Mr. Shann said that the staff proposed to be provided at Kings Heath Park must be accepted as the absolute minimum. The Council might rest assured that the committee would not create any soft jobs. (Laughter.)
3rd February 1909 - KN&N UDC Minute
Mr Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
4. King’s Heath Park
(a) Allowance to park keeper
That the lodge at the King’s Heath Park requires certain repairs being carried out before it will be in a habitable condition for the park keeper, Mr. H.A. Shuttleworth. Your Committee have therefore instructed the surveyor to prepare plans and estimates of the cost of carrying out such repairs, and in the meantime they are making an allowance of nine shillings per week to Mr. Shuttleworth until the lodge has been put in a habitable condition.
(b) Cleaning out of lake
That they have considered an offer from the Distress Committee that that Committee would provide the difference between skilled and unskilled labour in the cost of cleaning out the lake at King’s Heath Park, and making it a uniform depth of about three feet, up to an amount not exceeding £60, provided the work was carried out by unemployed workmen. Your Committee have given instructions accordingly for the work to be carried out at an estimated cost of £180.
(c) Gift of a Swan
That Mr. Councillor Cocks has presented a swan for King’s Heath Park, and your Committee have expressed their best thanks to him for his gift.
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Mr Councillor Qinney presented the following report of the Education Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
10. King’s Heath Temporary School – Appointment of caretaker
They have considered the applications received from candidates for appointment as a caretaker of the temporary school to be held at King’s Heath House, and have appointed Mr. R. Pepper, at the wage of 15s. per week, with house, coal and gas.
It has been necessary for the rooms which are to be used by the caretaker to be renovated, and your Committee have accepted the estimate of Mr. W. Cowen, amounting to £5 2s. 6d., for carrying out this work.
22nd February 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton Education Committee
Schools full at Kings Heath
The Buildings, Sites and General Purposes Sub-Committee reported that the temporary school was opened at the Kings heath House on 18th January, but owing to an epidemic of measles in the district had to be closed forthwith until Monday, 8th February. On the date of re-opening the school 322 children were admitted, and it had now become necessary to refuse further admissions. The opening of the temporary school had afforded some relief to the permanent school in High Street, but the vacancies in that school are being rapidly filled by the admission of children from the portion of the district between Kings Heath and Moseley.
3rd March 1909 - KN&N UDC Minute
In the absence of the Chairman of the Committee, Mr Councillor Moffat presented the following report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
3. King’s Heath Park
(a) Fencing
That they have considered the following estimates for supplying Jarrah Arris pale fencing, five feet high, to be erected along the north-western boundary of the King’s Heath Park:-
Millars’ Karri & Jarrah Co. (1902), Ltd. £55
Rudders and Paynes, Limited £60 10s.
and they beg to recommend that the estimate of Millars’ Karri & Jarrah Co. (1902), Limited, in the sum of £55 be accepted, subject to their entering into a contract for the due performance of the work, and that the common seal of the Council be affixed to such contract. Your Committee also beg to recommend that the work of erecting the fencing be carried out departmentally.
(b) Tennis Courts
That they have given instructions for the lawns near the house in King’s Heath Park to be adapted for four tennis courts.
(c) Appointment of additional man to take charge of greenhouses
That it is proposed to grow most of the bedding-out plants for the other parks and recreation grounds of the Council in the greenhouses at the King’s Heath Park, and it is impossible for the staff recently appointed to attend to this branch of the work in addition to their ordinary duties, and your Committee thought it desirable to appoint an additional man specially for that purpose. They have therefore appointed James McNerlin, of 67 Goldsmith Road, King’s Heath, to take charge of the greenhouses at the King’s Heath Park, at the wages of 25s. per week, plus sixpence per hour for work on Sundays, rising by annual increments of 1s. per week to the maximum of 27s. per week, plus sixpence per hour for work on Sundays, the appointment to be subject to one week’s notice on either side.
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It was moved by Mr. Councillor Moffat, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Bednall, and resolved:-
86. That the estimate of Millars’ Karri & Jarrah Co. (1902), Limited, in the sum of £55, for supplying Jarrah Arris pale fencing, five feet high, for the King’s Heath Park, be accepted, subject to their entering into a contract to be prepared by the Clerk for the due performance of the work, and that the common seal of the Council be affixed to such contract; also that the work of erecting the fence be carried out departmentally.
13th March 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton Public Offices Question
Local Government Board Enquiry
Opposition to the proposal
(The use of Kings Heath House was a counter proposal in the District Councils search for office accommodation and during the enquiry there were several references to it :- )
...............
Mr. Hayes: The utilisation of Kings Heath House had been considered, and was agreed to be inadvisable.
Mr. Brown asked the surveyor a number of questions to show that Kings Heath House, in his opinion, could be converted into public offices, if only temporary until the Incorporation and Annexation questions were settled. He thought it might be used temporarily.
Mr. Hayes: We have decided to use the house for elementary purposes.
Mr. Brown: The other school will be built before you get your offices at Kings Norton.
Mr. Cross, in answer to Councillor Fryer, said to use Kings Heath House for offices they would have to turn about 300 children out. The site for the new school was still under negotiation, and the school would not be built under two years.
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The Inspector: Now Mr. Chairman, some of the opposition have suggested that it is hardly the time in which you should purchase a site at its full value for the erection of municipal buildings or town hall. It has been suggested by Mr. Jackson that possibly there is a house called Kings Heath House now used as schools for a number of children that might possibly be utilised temporarily at any rate until the storm passes to accommodate your staff. What is your opinion?
Mr. Moffat: Well my opinion of Kings Heath House for the purpose is that it is highly unsuitable, and it would simply be a waste of time to go and spend money in alterations for any temporary purposes. It would be infinitely better than to do that to allow matters to remain as they are.
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Mr. Moffat, in answer to Mr. Wiseman, considered that Kings Heath House was unsuitable, being in the midst of a park, and they could not shut the children off to avoid noise. It could be used temporarily at a cost of from one thousand to fifteen hundred pounds, and he opposed such a course.
20th March 1909 - Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council
Entertainments in Parks and Recreation Grounds
The above-mentioned Council invite OFFERS from BANDS and CONCERT PARTIES to GIVE VOLUNTARY ENTERTAINMENTS in the following Parks and Recreation Grounds:-
KINGS HEATH PARK
SELLY OAK PARK
COTTERIDGE PARK (FRANKLIN ROAD)
MUNTZ PARK (UMBERSLADE ROAD)
VICTORIA COMMON, NORTHFIELD
BOURNBROOK RECREATION GROUND
Bands and concert parties are requested to note that the Council DO NOT ENGAGE the services of any band or concert party, neither do they guarantee the repayment of any loss sustained, or expenses incurred with the entertainments given. The Council are, however, prepared to contribute towards the expenses of entertainments given by BANDS at the rate of one shilling and sixpence for each performer and five shillings for the band master, such contribution being limited to twenty-five performers.
All Bands and Concert Parties may, however, make a charge for the hire of seats within the band-stand enclosure, where such are provided, and the Council will have no objection to a collection being made.
Offers, giving full particulars of the Band or Concert Party and of the proposed programme should be sent to the undersigned as soon as possible.
By Order,
EDWIN DOCKER,
Clerk to the above-named Council
10, Newhall Street,
Birmingham,
20th March, 1909.
6th April 1909 – Minute of KN&N UDC
Mr Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
3. King’s Heath Park
(a) Rebuilding of Lodge
That they are of opinion that the lodge at the King’s Heath Park cannot be put into a habitable condition, except at very great cost, and it will therefore be necessary to build a new lodge. Your Committee have considered plans and estimates prepared by the Surveyor for building a new lodge in place of the present one, at a cost of £400, and they beg to recommend that the work be carried out and that application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £400 in respect of the cost of carrying out the work. [Withdrawn.]
(b) Shelter
That they have considered plans and estimates prepared by the Surveyor for erecting a shelter in the King’s Heath Park, at a cost of £275, and they beg to recommend that the shelter be erected and that application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £275 in respect of the cost of carrying out the work.
(c) Public conveniences..
That they have considered plans and estimates prepared by the Surveyor for constructing public conveniences in the King’s Heath Park, at a cost of £175, and they beg to recommend that the conveniences be constructed and that application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £175 in respect of the cost of carrying out the work.
(d) Legal expenses and stamp duties on conveyance
That they have considered a report as to the costs incurred in respect of legal charges, fees, and stamp duties, in connection with e conveyance of the King’s Heath Park, amounting to £140 11s 7d., and they beg to recommend that application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £142 towards the cost of such legal charges, fees, and stamp duties. The original loan in respect of the purchase of this park covered the actual amount of the purchase money only.
(e) Fencing
That they have considered an estimate of the Surveyor that the total cost of the fencing to be supplied by Millars’ Karri and Jarrah Company (1902), Limited, and of erecting the same departmentally along the north-western boundary of the King’s Heath Park, will be £70, and your Committee therefore beg to recommend that application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £70 in respect of the cost of purchasing and erecting such fence.
(f) Painting outside of King’s Heath House and bandstand
That they have considered the following tenders for painting the outside of King’s Heath House and the bandstand in the Park:-
Kings Heath House Bandstand
£ s d £ s d
R. Matthews, Cofton Common, Northfield 26 10 0 2 15 0
J.H. Daniel & Sons, Selly Oak 40 0 0 4 0 0
H. Spencer, King’s Heath 41 0 0 4 10 0
J. Bullock & Son, Moseley 43 10 0 4 8 0
A. Flavell & Son, Selly Oak 45 10 0 4 0 0
G.W. Atkins, King’s Heath 45 0 0 6 0 0
J. Harvey, King’s Heath 48 0 0 7 0 0
and they beg to recommend that the tender of Mr. R. Matthews in the sum of £29 5s. 0d. be accepted, subject to his entering into a contract to be prepared by the Clerk for the due performance of the work, and that the Clerk be authorised to sign the contract for and on behalf of the Council.
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It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Coley,
That a new lodge by built at the King’s Heath park, in place of the present lodge, for the use of the park-keeper, at an estimated cost of £400.
After some discussion the motion, together with the further recommendation contained in paragraph 3(a) of the report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee, was withdrawn with the consent of the Council.
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Coley, and resolved:-
137. That a shelter be erected at the King’s Heath Park at an estimated cost of £275.
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Fryer, and resolved:-
138. That public conveniences be constructed in the King’s Heath park at an estimated cost of £175.
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Fryer, and resolved:-
139. That application to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the undernoted sums:-
Purpose for which loan was required | Amount of loan for which application is made for sanction to borrow |
Erection of a shelter in King’s Heath Park Construction of Public Conveniences in King’s Heath Park Legal charges, fees and stamp duty in connection with conveyance of King’s Heath Park Supplying and erecting a fence along the north-western boundary of the King’s Heath Park | £ 275 175 142 70 |
Total … | £662 |
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Kelley, and resolved:-
140. That the estimate of Mr. R. Matthews, of Cofton Common, Northfield, in the sum of £29 5s., for painting the outside of King’s Heath House and the Bandstand in King’s Heath Park, be accepted, subject to his entering into a contract to be prepared by the Clerk for the due performance of the work, and that the Clerk be authorised to sign the contract for and on behalf of the Council.
(Mr, Councillor Whittaker dissentient.)
10th April 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council
Entertainments in Parks
ENTERTAINMENTS will be given during Easter in the PARKS OF THE COUNCIL as follows:-
EASTER SUNDAY
KINGS HEATH PARK, Northfield Prize band, at 3 p.m.
EASTER MONDAY
KINGS HEATH PARK, Northfield Institute Prize Band, at 3 p.m.
MUNTZ PARK, Royal Islington Entertainers, at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
By order,
Edwin Docker
Clerk to the above named Council
10, Newall Street, Birmingham,
10th April, 1090
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Kings Norton and Northfield District Council
The Baths, Parks and Cemeteries committee reported ...................
The committee recommended that a new lodge be built at the Kings Heath park, in place of the present lodge, for the use of the park-keeper, at an estimated cost of £400; that a shelter be erected at the park at an estimated cost of £275, and that public conveniences be constructed in the park at an estimated cost of £175.
Mr. Shann presented the report, and moved the adoption of the recommendations contained therein. In regard to the park-keeper’s lodge he explained that the existing lodge was in an unsatisfactory condition, and not suitable as a residence for the park-keeper.
Mr. Coley seconded.
No fewer than seven members of the Council – including the chairman – joined in requesting the committee not to press the recommendation in regard to the lodge at the present juncture, and Mr. Shann accordingly withdrew it.
17th April 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield District
Kings Heath and Moseley
Concerts in Kings Heath Park - The first concerts given in the newly-acquired Kings Heath Park took place this Easter holiday. On Sunday afternoon there was a scared concert given by the Northfield Prize Band. The event was a novel one for Kings Heath, and that fact with the beautiful weather brought out a large attendance of the public, who listened with evident pleasure to the capitally played selections. The band was under the direction of the bandmaster and conductor, Mr. B. Ll. Fewster. The programme was as follows:- Grand March, “3D G’s” (Brophy); selection from Schubert’s Works (Schubert); hymn, “Shepherd of Souls”, from “The Sign of the Cross” (Jones); selection, “Lohengrin” (Wagner); anthem, “Blessed are they” (Spohr); fantasia, “Joan d’Arc” (Round); march, “Onward Christian Soldiers” (Sullivan). The public were invited to subscribe to the expenses by means of collecting sheets. On Easter Monday a visit was paid to the park by the Northfield Institute Prize Band. Unfortunately the inclement weather kept the people away, and only a small attendance was present. The band, under the conductorship of Mr. H. Price A.V.C.M., gave a good account of themselves, in the rendering of the following high-class selections:- Grand march, “The Enchanter (Allen); overture, “Prince and Peasant” (Round); selection “Mikado No. 2” (Sullivan); valse “Blue Danube” (Strauss); grand selection, “Scotland” (Round); Romantique concert overture, “Don Quixote” (Wallace); selection, “Lurline” (Wallace); waltz, “Sourire D’Avril” (Depret); reminiscences of Balfe; grand descriptive fantasia, “The Soldier’s Life” (Sheriff).
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Village Gossip
Kings Heath Park: A few Suggestions
I had the pleasure of attending on Sunday afternoon the first concert given in Kings Heath Park since its acquisition as a public pleasure ground. The event was in every way a success. But there are a few matters on which I should like to venture suggestions. I am aware that at present the arrangements for managing the park are only in the shaping stage, and that as time goes on, strict rules and regulations for the conduct of all who visit the grounds will be framed and enforced. There appears to be a great need of such. On Sunday the park was over-run by a horde of noisy young urchins, some of whom rode bicycles among the crowd, to the peril of youngsters and old people, while others indulged in football. Still others got among the trees and seemed likely to do some damage. Of course one does not wish to check the ardour of youth in the enjoyment of fresh air and green sward, but I think it would be as well if the energy of these young madcaps was somewhat restrained and guided into less mischievous channels. The staff are new to their work, and I am wondering whether they are numerically strong enough to cope with a large crowd on a holiday occasion. Let it be understood I make no reflection upon their discharge of their duties, which was efficient as it was possible to be under all the circumstances. There is another matter I want to mention also. Some of the residents in Avenue Road, opposite the park, tell me that now and again mischievous lads have been seen stoning the rooks which for many years have nested in the trees surrounding the grounds, and which at this time of year are breeding. I hope this persecution of the birds will be put a stop to. I know that for many years Major Howard Cartland has shown an almost fatherly care for the rooks, and has taken precautions to see that they are not molested. I have not the slightest doubt that the Baths and Parks Committee of the Kings Norton Council, who are custodians of the new park, will have no hesitation in taking the rooks under their wing shall I say.
15th May 1909 - Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council
Entertainments in Parks and Recreation Grounds
ENTERTAINMENTS will be given TODAY (SATURDAY), at 6 o’clock p.m., in the KINGS HEATH PARK, by the Kings Heath Adult School Brass Band, and in the SELLY OAK PARK, by the Handsworth Comedy Company.
ENTERTAINMENTS have also been arranged to be given at the following Parks and Recreation Grounds of the above-named Council during the summer months:-
KINGS HEATH PARK
SELLY OAK PARK
COTTERIDGE PARK
MUNTZ PARK
VICTORIA COMMON, NORTHFIELD
BOURNBROOK RECREATION GROUND
Notices giving particulars of such Entertainments will be posted at the entrances to the Parks where the Entertainments are to be given.
By Order,
EDWIN DOCKER,
Clerk to the Council
10, Newhall Street,
Birmingham,
15th May, 1909.
29th May 1909 – Birmingham News
Village Gossip
A Picturesque Park
I had a stroll round Kings Heath Park this week and noted with pleasure the charming appearance the grounds presented. The fine collection of rhododendrons are out in full bloom round the ornamental lake – now re-filled after cleaning – and up the main drive. The chestnut trees are also making a brave show with their blooms. My attention was further drawn to some very fine specimens of the Sorbus (Service Tree), which are very beautiful. The large bunches of white flowers almost hide the foliage, making them each look like a huge bouquet. The Kings Norton Baths and Parks Committee, with the officials, are evidently doing all they can to make the park attractive and popular. Three tennis courts have been provided, and are now open to the public use at a small charge per hour. Entertainments have been provided for the holidays; there will be Pierrot concerts on Saturday and Monday, and on Sunday afternoon the Northfield Prize Band will give a concert.
5th June 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton and Northfield Districts
Kings Heath and Moseley
Music in the Park - During the past holiday week a series of band concerts have been given in Kings Heath Park, which have been much appreciated and listened to by large crowds. On Sunday afternoon a scared concert was given by the Northfield Prize Band; on Whit-Monday and again on Wednesday evening concerts were given by Kings Heath Adult School Brass Band.
9th June 1909 – KN&N UDC Minute
Mr. Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries Committee
Your Committee beg to report:-
5 Tennis courts and bowling green
That tennis courts are now open for the use of the public at the King’s Heath, Selly Oak, and Cotteridge Parks at a charge of eightpence per hour for each court. At the Cotteridge Park a bowling green has also been opened for use at a charge of twopence per hour for each player.
Mr. Councillor Shann presented the following supplemental report of the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries Committee
Your Committee beg to report:-
8. Gift of Plants
That they have received a gift of 200 plants for the King’s Heath and Cotteridge Parks from Mr. W.J. Masters, of “Ethelhurst”, Fordhouse Lane, Stirchley, and they beg to recommend that the best thanks of the Council be accorded Mr. Masters for his gift.
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, and seconded by Mr. Councillor Fryer, and resolved:-
227. That the best thanks of the Council be accorded to Mr. W.J. Masters for his gift of plants for the King’s Heath and Cotteridge Parks.
12th June 1909 – Birmingham News
Village Gossip
A present to the Kings Heath and Cotteridge Parks
At the meeting of the Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council on Wednesday afternoon the members accepted with thanks a gift of 200 plants for the Kings Heath and Cotteridge Parks from Mr. W.J. Masters, “Ethelhurst”, Fordhouse Lane, Stirchley. Councillor Shann, chairman of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee was anxious for it to be known that gifts of this kind were most acceptable. While on the subject of local parks I am reminded that on Saturday afternoon, June 19th, the public of Kings Heath are to be given the opportunity of hearing a military band. By the permission of Col. C.J. Hart, V.D., and the officers, the regimental band of the 5th and 6th battalions of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment will give a concert. Further particulars will appear in the advertising columns of the “News”.
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Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council
Park for Selly Park
(There is a report of the debate concerning the acquisition of a park for Selly Park; in it is the following statement :-)
The Chairman said he was responsible largely for the matter being somewhat rushed. It was of great urgency, and if the chance was missed they would not be able to secure a park for that congested ward. Mr. Watts had learned wisdom since he had advocated the purchase of Kings Heath Park. (Laughter.)
19th June 1909 – Birmingham News
Public Announcements
Kings Norton & Northfield Urban District Council
Entertainments
A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE will be given in the KINGS HEATH PARK THIS DAY (SATRUDAY), from 3 o’clock p.m. to 6 o’clock p.m., by the Band of the 5th and 6th Battalions the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, by kind permission of Colonel C.J. Hart, V.D., and officers.
By order, Edwin Docker
Clerk to the above named Council
10, Newhall Street, Birmingham.
28th July 1909 - KN&N UDC Minute
In the absence of the Chairman of the Committee, Mr Councillor Hayes presented the following report of the Baths, Parks and Cemeteries Committee:
Your Committee beg to report:-
5. King’s Heath Park – additional loan
That the sanction of the Local Government Board has been received to the borrowing of the sum of £142 in respect of legal charges, fees and stamp duty in connection with the conveyance of the King’s Heath Park, and the sum of £520 for the erection of a shelter and public conveniences and for fencing at the Park, the said sum of £142 to be repaid with interest within a period of 60 years from the date of the borrowing thereof, and the said sum of £520 to be repaid with interest within a period of 27 years from the date of the borrowing thereof.
Your Committee have given instructions for advertisements to be issued inviting tenders for erection of the shelter, and have instructed the Surveyor to proceed at once with the erection of the public conveniences departmentally.
31st July 1909 – Birmingham News
Public Announcements
Brass Band Contest at Kings Heath
The SECOND ANNUAL BAND CONCERT and FLOWER SHOW,
Under the auspices of Kings Heath Adult School Brass Band
(President, Mr. Barrow Cadbury)
Will take place
On TUESDAY NEXT, August 3, at
KINGS HEATH PARK,
By permission of the Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council.
PRIZES OVER £50 IN VALUE.
Some of the finest Bands in the Midlands will compete.
Fire brigade Display by Kings Norton Council’s Fire brigade
Park open 1 o’clock. Admission; 6d.
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Village Gossip
An Interesting Suggestion
Mr. J.H. Forsyth, of Kings Heath, the well known poultry fancier and prize winner, sends me an interesting letter containing a suggestion which I feel I shall do well by making public. He writes: “I have sent a letter to the fancying press regarding the live stock at Cannon Hill Park. I don’t know whether you have noticed the indiscriminate mixing up of the various breeds. I contend that it would prove a very interesting part of this very beautiful park if there were some attention paid to these birds. For instance, look at the botanical part; all the varieties are named so that anyone interested can go and study botany. It would be a source of attraction if the pigeons, for example, were so divided and named properly. Fanciers and novices alike could go and learn, and bye and bye it might prove a source of income to the park. There must be thousands who gaze on these birds in the course of a week. I am appealing to fanciers to try and replenish these aviaries with decent specimens, and try to get the powers that be to take a bigger interest in the matter. I have offered to give a fancy pair of pigeons for a start, and I hope that other fanciers will follow my example. I would also like to suggest, for the sake of the children who frequent the park, that a few Bantams be secured. Every child is attracted by these pigmies, and the birds reciprocate their affections. Is it premature to think of having aviaries for Kings Heath Park? There are local fanciers I am sure who would be very pleased to give specimens to stock a pen of these little pets, or pigeons for that part of it. Perhaps you may give vent to this discussion in your columns, and I shall be very pleased if I could give any advice in the matter”. The suggestion is certainly one worth discussion, and I hope that other fanciers will take up the question with Mr. Forsyth.
7th August 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton & Northfield Districts
Moseley and Kings Heath
Brass Band Contest and Flower Show at Kings Heath - The second annual band contest and flower show under the auspices of the Kings Heath Adult School Brass Band were held on Tuesday in the Kings Heath Park. There was a good influx of visitors during the day, and the show passed off very successfully. The horticultural exhibits were staged in one large tent and made a very fine display, both flowers and vegetables being well up to last year’s average, and if anything better. Sweet peas were predominant in the flower section, some very fine blooms being staged, and the vegetables were distinctly good. Messrs. J. Bostock and Sons had a nice honorary exhibit of hardy border flowers, and Mr. S. Jeffries (Kings Heath) staged some exceptionally fine perennials, while Mr. Shuttleworth the park superintendent, also had an honorary exhibit of plants grown in the park greenhouses. Each exhibitor was awarded a silver medal. The entries numbered three hundred, and the judges were Messrs. J. MacKay, Smith, Russell, and Tutt. It was a great pity that so few bands entered the contest. Surely there must be more bands in the Birmingham district who would not fight shy of competing in open competition, and who would have experienced some pleasure in the anticipation of becoming the proud possessors of the ten guinea challenge cup offered by Messrs. Gisborne, in addition to which was £7 in money. Four bands entered, but two withdrew, these being the Willenhall Temperance Prize Band and the Newhall St. John’s. The competing bands were the Birmingham City and Donnington Wood Institute. Birmingham City were awarded the cup and the money prize, in addition to each man receiving a silver medal. They also won the £1 for the smartest band in the street. The other competitors had the second prize of £5, and the second prize of 10s. In the march contest in the bandstand, Birmingham City gained the first of £1. Mr. J. Brian, of Bradford, was the judge. During the afternoon entertainments were provided. A display was given by the Kings Heath Fire Brigade, and Professor Archer was responsible for an exhibition of conjuring.
(There then follows a list of prizes winners in the flower show)
14th August 1909 – Birmingham News
Kings Norton & Northfield Districts
Kings Heath and Moseley
Exciting Cricket Match in Kings Heath Park - A very exciting cricket match took place in Kings Heath Park on Saturday when the Kings Heath Girls’ Club beat the Youths of the Moor Green Concert Party by 11 runs. The scores were as follows:- Kings Heath Girls: Miss E. Salisbury 36, Miss C. Hague 6, Miss A. Bate 10, Miss E. Bate 0, Miss C. Harley 0, Miss M. Walker 7, Miss L. Bate 8, Miss M. Sherwood 0, Miss R. Hunt 0, Miss E.M. Adams 0, extras 12; total 79. Moor Green Concert Party: Mr. W.E. Hipkiss 0, Mr. G. Embley 16, Mr. G. Noon 24, Mr. J. Dutnell 0, Mr. J. Witts 1, Mr. A. Hague 1, Mr. S. Witts 0, Mr. J. Cockbill 0, Mr. H. Williams 15, Mr. F. Hipkiss 8, extras 3; total 68 The best part of the fun was the Youths having to bat, field and bowl left-handed. If a ball was fielded right-handed by a youth three runs were counted, and many extras were made by the girls in this way.
21st August 1909 - Birmingham News
Extension of Cotteridge Park
Local Government Board Inquiry
Interesting Statistics
An enquiry was held by Mr. Edgar Dudley, F.S.I., on behalf of the Local Government Board, at Stirchley Institute, on Thursday morning, into an application by the Kings Norton and Northfield District Council for sanction to borrow £2,530 for the purchase of land for the extension of Cotteridge Park.
(further in the report:)
At present the Council owned or leased the following parks and recreation grounds:-
Name and Situation Area Purchase Cost per
a r p Price acre
Selly Oak Park 11 2 5 Gift ----
Cotteridge Park 3 2 0 £500 £142
“ “ 9 0 21 £2,155 £236
Muntz Park, Selly Oak 3 0 30 Gift -----
“ “ 2 2 9 £2,030 £796
Victoria Common, Northfield 4 0 0 Gift -----
Stirchley Playground 1 1 22 Gift -----
Kings Heath Park 15 2 6 £11,000 £707
Bournbrook Recreation Ground 4,510 sq. yds. On Lease, £5 per annum
Stirchley Bowling Green 2,400 sq. yds. On Lease, nominal rent.
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Kings Norton & Northfield Districts
Kings Heath and Moseley
Interesting Cricket Match in Kings Heath Park - Another exciting cricket match took place in Kings Heath Park on Saturday last when the Kings Heath Girls were beaten by the Youths of the Moor Green Concert Party by 13 runs. The scores were as follows: Miss R. Hunt 18 7, Miss M. Sherwood 4 8, Miss E. Salisbury 4 12, Miss M. Walker 3 2, Miss L. Bate 7 1, Miss C. Hague 4 3, Miss E. Bate 0 3, Miss M. Jones 0 0, extras 11 7; totals 94. Youths of Moor Green Concert Party: Mr. W.E. Hipkiss 2 7, Mr. J. Dutnell 3 5, Mr. J. Witts 4 31, Mr. J. Cockbill 8 15, Mr. S. Hill, 7 1, Mr. F. Hipkiss 1 6, Mr. S. Witt 9 1, Mr. G. Noon 0 1, extras 0 6; total 107. The match caused a great deal of fun amongst the spectators, it being played on the same lines as last week, namely, right handed for the girls and left handed for the youths.
2nd October 1909 – Birmingham News
Public Notices
Kings Norton & Northfield Urban District Council
Kings Heath Park – Erection of Shelter
The above named Council invite TENDERS for the ERECTION of a SHELTER in the KINGS HEATH PARK.
Copies of the bills of quantities and specifications and forms of tender may be obtained, and plans may be seen, at the office of the Engineer and Surveyor to the Council, Mr. Ambrose W. Cross, of No. 23, Valentine Road, Kings Heath, on and after Monday, the 4th October, 1909, on payment of a deposit of one guinea, which will be returned on receipt of a bona-fide tender and all documents issued to the contractor.
Sealed Tenders, endorsed “Shelter – Kings Heath Park”, must be delivered to the office of the undersigned, not later than 12 o’clock Noon on WEDNESDAY, the 13th October, 1909.
By order,
Edwin Docker
Clerk to the Council
10 Newhall Street, Birmingham,
2nd October, 1909.
6th October 1909 – KN&N UDC Minute
Mr. Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries committee
Your Committee beg to report:-
6. King’s Heath Park
(a) Public conveniences – That arrangements have been made whereby ladies visiting the King’s Heath Park may use the conveniences provided for use by the scholars attending the temporary school held at King’s heath House until such time as the conveniences now being erected are completely ready for use, and your Committee have agreed to remunerate the caretaker of the temporary school at the rate of five shillings per week for overlooking the conveniences whilst the above-mentioned arrangement is in force.
Your Committee have considered complaints from residents and owners of property in Avenue Road as to the situation in which it is intended to erect the public conveniences for gentlemen, and they have instructed the Clerk to apply to the Local Government Board for sanction to erect such conveniences on another site suggested by the Surveyor.
(b) Swans – That Mr. Counciller Callwood has presented six cygnets for King’s Heath Park, and Mr. Morter, Superintendent of Cannon Hill Park, has presented a mate for the swan which was presented by Mr. Councillor Cocks.
Your Committee have conveyed the best thanks of the Council to Mr. Councillor Callwwod and Mr. Morter for their gifts.
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Mr. Councillor Shann presented the following supplemental report of the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries committee
Your Committee beg to report:-
1. Unemployment Relief Works
That they have received a report from the Surveyor showing that it will be open to the Council to carry out the following works, in conjunction with the Distress Committee, for the purpose of providing employment for the unemployed during the coming winter:-
(a) King’s Heath Park
The ditch in the spinney adjoining Avenue Road to be piped in and filled up, and the whole levelled.
The path through the above spinney at side of Avenue Road and round the pool to be regravelled and the path across the park made during last winter to be gravelled.
The band stand enclosure to be formed, fenced and returfed.
A bowling green to be formed, levelled, and turfed.
The seats recently erected to be painted.
Paths to be formed for the new conveniences and shrubs planted.
Estimated cost ..................................... £265 3 3
It was moved by Councillor Shann, seconded by Mr. Councillor Fryer, and resolved:-
356 That, subject to satisfactory arrangements with the Distress Committee as to a contribution being made to the Council in respect of any loss to be incurred, the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries Committee be authorised to carry out the works referred to in paragraph 1 of their supplemental report, and for that purpose to employ unemployed workmen selected by the Distress Committee.
It was moved by Councillor Shann, seconded by Mr. Councillor Bishop, and resolved:-
357 That application be made to the Local Government Board for their sanction to the borrowing of the sum of £265 in respect of the cost of carrying out certain improvements at Kings Heath Park.
9th October 1909 - Birmingham News
The Police Courts
Kings Heath Monday – Before Alderman J. Bowen (in the chair) and Mr. G.F. Lyndon
Damaging a Tree in Kings Heath Park
Frank Hodgetts, aged 13, 153, Grange Road, Kings Heath, was summoned for wilful damage to a tree and seat in Kings Heath Park on August 16.
Mr. A.E. Coley, assistant clerk, appeared on behalf of the Kings Norton and Northfield Urban District Council to prosecute.
In addressing the bench, Mr. Coley said it appeared that the defendant with another lad named Albert Slade, of 232, Grange Road, Kings Heath, were seen throwing a steel capped wicket at a tree and a seat near it in the park, making a number of holes in both the tree and the seat. The damage amounted to about five shillings. The Council had had a lot of trouble in the matter of damage in the park. Ample warnings had been posted in and about the park. The Council did not intend to proceed with the case against Slade who was only 9 years of age and they had therefore withdrawn the summons against him. The Council did not wish to press the case against the lad Hodgetts, but they wished to point out the serious consequences which might have resulted had any children been struck by the wicket.
Evidence was given by P.C. Bromage to the effect that he saw the defendant throw a steel pointed wicket at a tree and at a seat, making from fifty to sixty holes in.
Evidence as to damage was given by the superintendent of the park.
Alderman Bowen cautioned defendant, warning him that if he came again he would be severely dealt with. On this occasion he would be let off on paying four shillings towards the costs.
Kings Norton’s Parks
Kings Norton’s Parks
The various parks and recreation grounds which now exist in the Kings Norton district have not been acquired without a good deal of expense on the part of the community, but there is probably no public asset that the people would be less willing to surrender. I have been very much impressed with the extent of the use which the people make of them, and this of course is the measure of their appreciation. The efforts which the Council are making to add to the attractiveness of the parks entitle them to the grateful thanks of their constituents. At Selly Oak, at Cotteridge, and at Kings Heath the whole aspect of the parks as they were even a year ago has been altered. Now I see a further five or six hundred pounds is to be spent upon them, in addition to the ordinary maintenance expenses. Two birds are to be killed with one stone also, for in doing so work is to be found for the unemployed. I think no one will object to this form of municipal enterprise, and on the contrary, I imagine there are others who will feel like myself, viz., anxious to say a word of commendation in order that the Council may feel that their work is not unappreciated in this direction at least.
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Kings Norton and Northfield District Council
(A paragraph from a long report-)
................ The (Baths, Parks and Cemeteries) Committee reported that Mr. C. Cartwright, of Selly Oak, had presented a peacock to be placed in Selly Oak Park, Councillor Callwood six cygnets for Kings Heath Park, Mr. Morter (superintendent of Canon Hill Park) a swan.
The committee recommended the carrying out of certain public works in connection with the Distress Committee for providing employment for the unemployed. These works included the expenditure of £265 upon improvements at Kings Heath Park, £336 upon Cotteridge Park and £416 upon the Village Green at Kings Norton.
3rd November 1909 - KN&N UDC Minute
Mr. Councillor Shann presented the following report of the Baths, Parks, and Cemeteries committee
Your Committee beg to report:-
7. King’s Heath Park
a) Shelter – That they have considered the following tenders, which have been received in response to the advertisement which was issued for the erection of a shelter in Kings Heath Park:-
£ s d
Mr. W.J. Morris, King’s Heath 250 0 0
Mr. A.R. Waldron, King’s Heath 276 16 2
Messrs. B. Whitehouse & Sons, Edgbaston 281 0 0
Mr. G.T. Stopher, King’s Heath 281 10 0
Messrs. G. Robinson & Son, King’s Heath 285 0 0
Messrs. T. Loud & Sons, Bournbrook 287 0 0
Mr. F.H. Smith, Birmingham 324 0 0
Mr. W. Harvey Gibbs, King’s Heath 325 0 0
Mr. A. Curson, King’s Heath 367 1 0
Mr. W. Harris, Halesowen 428 16 0
Messrs. Boulton & Paul, Norwich 436 16 6
Your committee beg to recommend that the tender of Mr. W.J. Morris in the sum of £250 be accepted, subject to his entering into a contract and bond (with approved sureties), to be prepared by the Clerk, to secure the due performance of the work, and that the common seal of the Council be affixed to such contract and bond.
b) Wilful damage to tree and seat - That they have taken proceedings against a boy, aged 13, for wilfully damaging a tree and seat in the King’s Heath park. The case was heard on 4th October, 1909, when the boy was severely cautioned, and ordered to pay the costs. Proceedings were also instituted against a younger boy for the same offence, but your Committee withdrew the sums against him on account of his age.
c) Visitors to greenhouses - That they have thrown open to the public the greenhouses in the King’s heath park on Sunday afternoons during the past summer; on the fifteen Sundays on which the greenhouses have been open 9,465 visitors have passed through the same, an average of 631 visitors each day.
d) Bedding out plants - That 15,361 bedding plants have been produced at King’s Heath park.
8 Entertainments in parks
Your Committee beg to submit the following summary showing the entertainments given in the various parks during the past summer:-
Park | No of band performance | No. of other entertainments | Total No. of Entertainments | Amounts Contributed to Bands | ||||
King’s Heath Park | 24 | 24 | 48 | £ s d 15 13 0 | ||||
Selly Oak Park | 11 | 7 | 18 | 13 10 6 | ||||
Cotteridge Park | 12 | 8 | 20 | 12 3 0 | ||||
Muntz Park | 5 | 7 | 12 | 5 17 0 | ||||
Victoria Common | 5 | 1 | 6 15 6 | |||||
Bournbrook Recreation Ground | 4 | 2 | 6 | 7 9 0 | ||||
Totals | 61 | 49 | 110 | 661 8 0 | ||||
It was moved by Mr. Councillor Shann, seconded by Mr. Councillor Valentine, and resolved:-
400 That the tender of Mr. W.J. Morris of King’s Heath, in the sum of £250 for erecting a shelter in the King’s Heath park, be accepted, subject to his entering into a contract and bond (with approved sureties), to be prepared by the Clerk, to secure the due performance of the work, and that the common seal of the Council be affixed to such contract and bond.
6th November 1909 – Birmingham News
Village Gossip
A Job Line in Facts
I have a lot of disconnected notes on my book this week, and I am afraid I must serve them up as an auctioneer does his odds and ends, viz., as a job lot. (1) The reading room which the Kings Norton District Council has built at Rednal is practically ready for use, and will be opened of the 25th inst. with a little formality, which Mr. George Cadbury, junr., one of the donors of the site, will discharge. This takes place in the afternoon, at half-past three of the clock. (2) The Kings Norton people would appear to be full of slippered ease. They read 16,909 books in four clear weeks last month. (3) If a public bath is converted into an assembly room in the winter months, and entertainments for which a charge is made are held, admission must be by ticket, as it is illegal for money to be taken at the doors. An effort is being made to get this altered. It would be interesting to know the considerations that led Parliament to insert a provision of this kind into the Baths and Washhouses Act. (4) £250 is to be spent upon providing a shelter at Kings Heath Park. How many, by the way, would imagine that 9,465 persons availed themselves of the opportunity given to them during the summer months of walking through the greenhouses at Kings Heath Park?
