Rushden Research Group: Charles Hodson

Charles Hodson

Advertised in Kelly's Directory 1918 & 1920

Charles Sydney Hodson was born at Hargrave in 1866, and moved to Rushden during the rapid expansion of the shoetrade. In 1886 he married Charlotte (nee Gray, born Wollaston), and they had four sons and one daughter: Charles Bertie, Ernest E, Frederick W, Charlotte E, and Leonard, all except Fred were born at Rushden. Fred was born during a short residence at Kettering between 1887 and 1893. In 1901 the family were back in Rushden, living at 14 Crabb Street and Charles was working as a shoe rivetter.

About 1912 Bertie, Ernest and Fred emigrated to Canada, and they all returned to serve in WWI. Charles Bertie was killed in WWI in 1915, and Ernest was award the D.C.M. in 1917. Fred was a bandsman with the Temperance Band before he emigrated. He was awarded the M.M. in 1917.

Sometime before 1917 Charles had established a small factory at 7 Harborough Road.

Charles was probably already seriously ill when his wife sold the factory early in 1922. He died in 1924 aged 58, and was buried in Rushden Cemetery, grave C366. After almost 24 years as a widow, Charlotte aged 85 was buried in the same grave in 1948.

Rushden Echo, 13th January 1922, transcribed by Kay Collins

7, Harborough Road, Rushden.
Valuable Freehold Boot Factory

JOHN S. MASON,

has been instructed by Mrs. C. Hodson to sell by auction on MONDAY, 23rd JANUARY 1922, at the Coffee Tavern, Rushden, at Six o'clock in the evening precisely, subject to such conditions of sale as will then be produced.

All that valuable Freehold Boot Factory situate and being No, 7, Harborough-road, Rushden, of Brick and Slate and Tile erection, containing on the Ground Floor Machine Room, Packing Room, and Engine House, and on the first floor Clicking Room and Finishing Room. There is also good Stabling with standing for two horses and Chaff Loft over of Brick and Tile erection.

The property is connected with the main sewer and proper sanitary arrangements exist for the factory. There is a Gas Engine and Shafting fitted, which will be included in the sale.

To view, and for further particulars, apply to the Auctioneer's Offices, 30, High-street, Rushden, or to Messrs. Simpson and Mason, solicitors, Rushden and Higham Ferrers.

Rear view taken behind Park Road properties March 2014
Factory is currently used by Ken Woodward, woodworkers

Index of small factories