Catalogue

Interview
1142, LO/489/439
Leicester Oral History Archive Collection

Speaker: Drinkwater, John Douglas, 1918 - , Interviewee, Male, Hosiery engineer
Speaker: Hyde, C, Interviewer, Male

Summary of interview item: Thumbnail sketch of Prospect Hill area of Highfields, Leicester, explains what 'intermediate' school is [Moat School locally], starting at Stibbes as apprentice engineer. Describes Stibbes as international in outlook, location of factories. Digression on United States magazines and their advertsiements encouraging international outlook. Mention of foreman Joe Panter, early wages, hours, work, pranks, conditions, outings, 50th anniversary meal. Recalls few safety standards, having little to do with Amalgamated Engineering Union having joined it, male dominated environment. Describes joining drawing office, moving to Taylor, Taylor & Hobson. Details circular knitting machine, making stockings, fakes, hardening of metal for machines, flat bed machines; mentions different machine models, factory noise, leaving due to lack of skilled technical work. Talks about cricket on Victoria Park, large crowds, pavillion, father bowling fast, watching Larwood and Voce [fast bowlers].
Place of birth: Leicester
Education: Moat School
Marital Status: Married, Children:
Father's Occupation:
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Leicester
Periods Covered: 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Language: English

Recording Date: 15/7/1988
Playing time: 1 hr 45 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.