Local Studies Volunteer – Mike Brennan

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Local Studies volunteer Mike Brennan is currently transcribing 3 ledgers entitled Kenion’s Charity. The ledgers date from 1845 – 1902 and were very kindly donated by an ex member of staff.

The Kenion Charity was set up after the death of John Kenion in 1789 who left money in his will which was to be invested by ‘reputable and substantial inhabitants or housekeepers’ of Rochdale. The interest from these investments was to be used to provide apprenticeships for poor children from the Township of Rochdale.

Mike has transcribed many interesting entries and has noted that some of the apprentices were classed as outdoor apprentices (not living with the master) and indoor apprentices (who lived with the master.) Most of the apprenticeships lasted for 7 years ending when the apprentice reached the age of 21.

Mike is a valued member of our team who has transcribed and listed many documents in his 3 years with us. He’s genuinely interested in what he does and is extremely thorough but that’s all we would expect from a retired history teacher and headmaster!!