Catalogue

Interview
1054, LO/401/352/B
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Widdowson, Reuben, 1905 - , Interviewee, Male, Clicker in shoe trade
Speaker: Bilton, A, Interviewer, Female

Summary of interview item: Joint interview with Stanley Trasler, both talking about working in shoe trade and trade unions. Remembers membership of unions not being encouraged when he started work in Sileby, Leicestershire; fear of having no work. Describes hand clicking at Newbold and Burtons, important role of women in manufacturing process. Recalls union becoming stronger, describes how pattern prices used to be fixed. Sketches progression from Moors to Swan and Prestons to Newbold and Burtons. Recalls bonus given on Armistice Day, 1918. Talks about building of Unity Hall, reflects on unions generally. Describes social events, briefly mentions union courses; talks about people involved with other factories in area such as Excelsior Boot and Shoe. Describes skill of clicking, working with leather, being given lump sum payment when finished working life. Anecdote of manager finding large piece of leather left over. Gives examples of fun in clicking room. Mentions work for Marks and Spencer, having collections of shoes each season in the past, buyers now deciding prices.
Place of birth: Sileby, Leicestershire
Education:
Marital Status: , Children:
Father's Occupation:
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Sileby
Periods Covered: 1910s, 1920s, 1930s, 1940
Language: English

Recording Date: 28/7/1987
Playing time: 47 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.