Catalogue

Interview
2257, WA/05
Wathes Collection

Speaker: Freeman, Ralph, 1921 - 0, Interviewee, Male, Electrical engineer
Speaker: Hyde, C, Interviewer, Male

Summary of interview item: Outlines family background in Blaby, Leicestershire. Mentions working for Whitcombe & Blackwell (W&B) doing electrical installations, signing deed of apprenticeship which bound apprentice to master. Describes conditions worked in. Explains how got job at TH Wathes through Mr Whitcombe after Second World War. Talks about joining navy, moving into Europe salvaging equipment. Anecdotes about Sydney Wathes, TH Wathes. Describes making out estimates, places worked, competition, decline in loyalty between companies. Reflects on attitude to work, mentions a strike, lack of health and safety at work. Mentions Christmas meals. Explains different approach to budgeting brought in by Peter Thurnham, reflects on general changes in business in 1970s. Mentions premises, describes Thornton Lane area. Sketches situation at retirement, 1986, including taking on apprentices. Mention of Electrical Contractors' Association.
Place of birth: Blaby, Leicestershire
Education: Intermediate school to age 14
Marital Status: Married, Children:
Father's Occupation: Railway wagon repairer
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Leicester
Periods Covered: 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s
Language: English

Recording Date: 8/4/2003
Playing time: 1 hr 35 mins
Access Restrictions: Full clearance Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: Yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.