3-011-865 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Festival at Hartford Mill, Oldham, given by Mr. Platt to 8000 of his workpeople, 1864. 'In celebration of the attainment of his majority by Mr. Henry Platt, son of Mr. John Platt...the workpeople employed at the Hartford Works, Oldham, belonging to Messrs. Platt, Brothers, and Co., were...entertained by the principal members of the firm...Tea commenced at five o'clock, and the company, as they arrived, were marshalled to their places. They were divided into four relays, about 2000 being supplied at a time. When the rooms were full the scene was a very animated one. An idea may be formed of the provision made for this vast assemblage when we state that there were supplied 1800 4 lb. loaves, 1300 currant loaves, 8000 biscuits, 6 chests of tea, 10 cwt. of sugar, half a ton of butter, and 150 gallons of cream...Mr. James Taylor, one of the oldest workmen, presented the address, which was expressive of the good feeling of the workmen towards Mr. Platt and his family...Our Engraving represents the ball-room at a period when the people were in the full swing of enjoyment. A portion of the room, as shown in the foreground, was partitioned off for the use of Mr. Platt and his friends. The proceedings did not terminate until an early hour'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864.