BRADFORD WITNESS and South Simcoe News
Bradford, Ontario, Wednesday, December 14, 1938
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
The Century Anniversary of the T. Kilkenny and Son firm, celebrated last Saturday afternoon and evening by a reception given at the firm's place of business by its present owner, was, to use Frank Kilkenny's own words, "one of the nicest days in my life." From one o'clock noon until midnight, friends from the town, the township, from Innisfil and its villages, from Elmvale, Midland, Aurora, Newmarket, Toronto, Guelph and other points, to the number of over eight hundred, came to extend their felicitations. Though the building is spacious, it was crowed at all times, afternoon and evening, A hundredth anniversary is a rare occasion and this one was most fittingly celebrated.
The business men of the town presented the flowers for the occasion, gold and orchid colored mums, to the number of several multiples of the anniversary years, and great baskets of these gorgeous flowers, were banked about the rooms. The Bradford Band added a pleasant feature by a surprise visit, playing in front of the building in the evening for about an hour. Young and old, many well on in their "eighties," came distances, to express their good wishes to F. Kilkenny and members of the family.
Exhibited at the front of the furniture store were enlarged photographs of Mr. T. Kilkenny the founder of the firm and his wife: a huge pot of English ivy brought to Bradford by Mr. F. Kilkenny's grandmother over seventy years ago; a hand-made swing mirror and stand made by the late T. Kilkenny and presented to Mr. Frank Kilkenny by Mrs. Walter McLean; and a fine butternut hand-made bureau with swing mirror, also made by T. Kilkenny, and loaned for the occasion by the Misses Reive of Churchill. The two latter pieces bore the firm's stamp which read, "T. Kilkenny Cabinet Maker, Upholster, and Undertaker, also dealer in all kinds of Furniture. Coffins kept ready made and hearse supplied. Holland Street, Bradford."
Of the relics of this old business, the most interesting is a ledger, first dates being in 1844, the book covering accounts with the firm over a period of five years, up to 1849. The records are beautifully written, far more legible than many present day books, and during the first three years the prices are recorded in pounds, shillings, and pence, changing in 1847 to dollars and cents.
Old Cradle
The writer was shown an entry in the ledger - in 1849 Robert Wood purchased a cradle. Our late postmaster, Mr. William Wood, was born that year, and that old cradle is still in the possession of Mr. Clarence Wood at Lornewood.
Names of 1844-49.
We listed some of the names found in that old ledger, in the order in which they appear, ad we believe many of these names will revive memories of stories heard in childhood, and may even provide inspiration for Mr. Pratt or some other scribe to write some early history for our columns. These names predate our readers, but are the forefathers of many of our residents, and are as follows: Samuel Driffill, Joseph Bingham, Edward Bingham, Thomas Wallace, George Turner, George Douglas, Archie McLellan, Gideon Phillips, George McKay, George McConkey, Thomas Driffill, Prince Belfry, John Armstrong, Thos. Maconchey, A. Sutherland, Robt. Wood, John Merick, J.W. Barry, Ebenezer Todd, Hugh Armson, Hugh Stoddart, Angus Gunn, Benjamin Sutherland, Samuel Manning, Roderick McKay, John Ginty, John Thorpe, George Sinclair, Robt. Bingham, Samuel Trott, John Gibbons, Thos. Goodfellow, Robt. Sutherland, Timothy Rogers, Robt. Wallace, John Wood, Andrew Neilly, James Stoddart, James Lawrence, J.W.H. Wilson, Stanley Spillette, John O'Donnell, John Hockeridge, Martin Dillon, Job Morris, Ed. Lee, Ben Barnard, Committee of Bradford Methodist Church (for parsonage furniture), Henry Manning, Robt. Stewart. Wm. Edmanson, Thomas Evans, John and David McKinstry, Thos. Herrick, John Boddy, Wm. McCausland, John Gilheeny, Wm. Strong, John Murphy, Scott and Graham, Thos. Walmsley, Robt. Bingham, Andy Ormsby, Robt. Algeo, James Clement, Ed. Sheldon, Wilson Stoddart, McMaster, Dr. Scofield, Hugh Ross, Thos. Scanlon, Wm. Lount, Fisher, L. Butterfield, J. Falconbridge, Samuel Lee, Donald Sutherland, Thos. Dewson, Wilcox, Jelly, Miss Jeff, Dave Stoddart, Thos. Graham, Jas. Barrowman, Gibson Cook, Walter Rogers, Ed. Dissette, John Ed. Stoddart, and John Rose.
Callers were welcomed on Saturday at the door of the store by Mr. Frank Kilkenny and his son, Keith. They were shown through the building, which as been renovated and redecorated during the past few years, and invited to register. Refreshments were served upstairs in the spacious newly renovated room at the front of the building, which, in the future, when occasion arises, will be used as a funeral home.
Family Present
The seven sisters of Mr. F. Kilkenny, and seven members of the fourth...
(continued on page 4)
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
(continued from page 1)
...generation, all assisted in receiving the guests. Mrs. Jewell (Clara) of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Carscadden (Bertha) of Stayner, poured tea and coffee at the lace covered, taper lighted, gold and mauve trimmed table, which was centred with the huge storied birthday cake, decorated in white, with the lettering in gold "1838-1938" and on the other side, "100 years." The other sisters assisting were: Mrs. Simpkin (Lulu), Bradford; Mrs. McColl (Emily), Toronto; Mrs. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. Atkinson (Helen), Bradford; and Mrs. Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Of the fourth generation, Keith Kilkenny was with his father down stairs, while assisting throughout the building were, Ruth Kilkenny, Alan Atkinson, Doris Carscadden, Wray Carscadden and Lorne Carscadden. Misses Gwen and Evelyn Ward also assisted in the tea room.
The draw for the beautiful airspring mattress was won by Helen Brown, daughter of the popular collector for West Gwillimbury.
In referring to long ago customs and conditions, Mr. Kilkenny tells us that at one time residents would not permit the making of coffins before required, and that his grandfather had often begun the making of a coffin in the night, working from rough lumber by the light of tallow candle held by his wife, in order to have it made in sufficient time. Mr. T. Kilkenny, the founder, brought the first hearse into Simcoe County, a one-horse one. A funeral held at some distance from town in those early days often meant an absence from home of three days for the undertaker, who went to the bereaved home and stayed until after the funeral.
NOTE 1: errors were not corrected
NOTE 2: A microfilmed copy of Thomas Kilkenny's original records is available at the Archives of Ontario. Thomas Kilkenny fonds
Creator: Kilkenny, Thomas, fl. 1847-1870
Dates of material: Microfilmed 1964 (originally created 1847-1870)
Reference Number: F 145
Biographical sketch/Administrative History: Thomas Kilkenny (fl. 1847-1870) was the owner of a furniture, carpentry, and funeral business in southern Ontario.
_________________________________________________________
The Bradford Witness
VOLUME: Vol. 98, No. 27
VOLUME DATE: July 03, 1963
21 June 1963
Mr. Frank Kilkenny appeared to make good progress during the first few days following the accident which necessitated the amputation of part of his leg, and hope was extended that he might recover, although it was realized that he was still in a state of shock. The accident occurred on Saturday and by Thursday a change was noted and on Friday he passed away.
Mr. Kilkenny was born and educated in Bradford and he took over the business of his father. In 1938 he celebrated the centennial of the Kilkenny funeral and furniture business in Bradford and continued in that business until his retirement, when his son continued with the furniture part of the business.
He was secretary-treasurer of Bradford Public School Board for many years; was a member and past master of Simcoe Masonic Lodge No. 79 and he received a 50-year jewel from that Lodge recently in recognition of his long term of membership; a member of the Orange Order and the I.O.F., as well as a curler and lawn bowler.
His church was the Presbyterian. Mr. Kilkenny was predeceased by his wife, the former Lila Neilly, in July, 1928. He is survived by one son, Keith, of Bradford, and one daughter, Mrs. J. M. Booth (Ruth) of Bradford; also five sisters, Mrs. Howard Carscadden (Bertha), Stayner; Mrs. D. E. McColl (Emily) and Mrs. T. H. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. George Atkinson (Helen), Mt. Albert, and Mrs. Lorne Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Three sisters predeceased him, Mrs. Jewell (Clara), Mrs. Wm. Simpkin (Lulu) and Alma, who died in infancy.
The private funeral was held on June 24 from the Lathangue-Kilkenny Funeral Home, with Rev. F. G. MacTavish conducting the funeral services. Interment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
The pallbearers were Ralph Jewell, Fred Wilson, John Arnold, Wray Carscadden, R. H. Devereux, Art Lloyd.
Bradford, Ontario, Wednesday, December 14, 1938
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
The Century Anniversary of the T. Kilkenny and Son firm, celebrated last Saturday afternoon and evening by a reception given at the firm's place of business by its present owner, was, to use Frank Kilkenny's own words, "one of the nicest days in my life." From one o'clock noon until midnight, friends from the town, the township, from Innisfil and its villages, from Elmvale, Midland, Aurora, Newmarket, Toronto, Guelph and other points, to the number of over eight hundred, came to extend their felicitations. Though the building is spacious, it was crowed at all times, afternoon and evening, A hundredth anniversary is a rare occasion and this one was most fittingly celebrated.
The business men of the town presented the flowers for the occasion, gold and orchid colored mums, to the number of several multiples of the anniversary years, and great baskets of these gorgeous flowers, were banked about the rooms. The Bradford Band added a pleasant feature by a surprise visit, playing in front of the building in the evening for about an hour. Young and old, many well on in their "eighties," came distances, to express their good wishes to F. Kilkenny and members of the family.
Exhibited at the front of the furniture store were enlarged photographs of Mr. T. Kilkenny the founder of the firm and his wife: a huge pot of English ivy brought to Bradford by Mr. F. Kilkenny's grandmother over seventy years ago; a hand-made swing mirror and stand made by the late T. Kilkenny and presented to Mr. Frank Kilkenny by Mrs. Walter McLean; and a fine butternut hand-made bureau with swing mirror, also made by T. Kilkenny, and loaned for the occasion by the Misses Reive of Churchill. The two latter pieces bore the firm's stamp which read, "T. Kilkenny Cabinet Maker, Upholster, and Undertaker, also dealer in all kinds of Furniture. Coffins kept ready made and hearse supplied. Holland Street, Bradford."
Of the relics of this old business, the most interesting is a ledger, first dates being in 1844, the book covering accounts with the firm over a period of five years, up to 1849. The records are beautifully written, far more legible than many present day books, and during the first three years the prices are recorded in pounds, shillings, and pence, changing in 1847 to dollars and cents.
Old Cradle
The writer was shown an entry in the ledger - in 1849 Robert Wood purchased a cradle. Our late postmaster, Mr. William Wood, was born that year, and that old cradle is still in the possession of Mr. Clarence Wood at Lornewood.
Names of 1844-49.
We listed some of the names found in that old ledger, in the order in which they appear, ad we believe many of these names will revive memories of stories heard in childhood, and may even provide inspiration for Mr. Pratt or some other scribe to write some early history for our columns. These names predate our readers, but are the forefathers of many of our residents, and are as follows: Samuel Driffill, Joseph Bingham, Edward Bingham, Thomas Wallace, George Turner, George Douglas, Archie McLellan, Gideon Phillips, George McKay, George McConkey, Thomas Driffill, Prince Belfry, John Armstrong, Thos. Maconchey, A. Sutherland, Robt. Wood, John Merick, J.W. Barry, Ebenezer Todd, Hugh Armson, Hugh Stoddart, Angus Gunn, Benjamin Sutherland, Samuel Manning, Roderick McKay, John Ginty, John Thorpe, George Sinclair, Robt. Bingham, Samuel Trott, John Gibbons, Thos. Goodfellow, Robt. Sutherland, Timothy Rogers, Robt. Wallace, John Wood, Andrew Neilly, James Stoddart, James Lawrence, J.W.H. Wilson, Stanley Spillette, John O'Donnell, John Hockeridge, Martin Dillon, Job Morris, Ed. Lee, Ben Barnard, Committee of Bradford Methodist Church (for parsonage furniture), Henry Manning, Robt. Stewart. Wm. Edmanson, Thomas Evans, John and David McKinstry, Thos. Herrick, John Boddy, Wm. McCausland, John Gilheeny, Wm. Strong, John Murphy, Scott and Graham, Thos. Walmsley, Robt. Bingham, Andy Ormsby, Robt. Algeo, James Clement, Ed. Sheldon, Wilson Stoddart, McMaster, Dr. Scofield, Hugh Ross, Thos. Scanlon, Wm. Lount, Fisher, L. Butterfield, J. Falconbridge, Samuel Lee, Donald Sutherland, Thos. Dewson, Wilcox, Jelly, Miss Jeff, Dave Stoddart, Thos. Graham, Jas. Barrowman, Gibson Cook, Walter Rogers, Ed. Dissette, John Ed. Stoddart, and John Rose.
Callers were welcomed on Saturday at the door of the store by Mr. Frank Kilkenny and his son, Keith. They were shown through the building, which as been renovated and redecorated during the past few years, and invited to register. Refreshments were served upstairs in the spacious newly renovated room at the front of the building, which, in the future, when occasion arises, will be used as a funeral home.
Family Present
The seven sisters of Mr. F. Kilkenny, and seven members of the fourth...
(continued on page 4)
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
(continued from page 1)
...generation, all assisted in receiving the guests. Mrs. Jewell (Clara) of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Carscadden (Bertha) of Stayner, poured tea and coffee at the lace covered, taper lighted, gold and mauve trimmed table, which was centred with the huge storied birthday cake, decorated in white, with the lettering in gold "1838-1938" and on the other side, "100 years." The other sisters assisting were: Mrs. Simpkin (Lulu), Bradford; Mrs. McColl (Emily), Toronto; Mrs. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. Atkinson (Helen), Bradford; and Mrs. Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Of the fourth generation, Keith Kilkenny was with his father down stairs, while assisting throughout the building were, Ruth Kilkenny, Alan Atkinson, Doris Carscadden, Wray Carscadden and Lorne Carscadden. Misses Gwen and Evelyn Ward also assisted in the tea room.
The draw for the beautiful airspring mattress was won by Helen Brown, daughter of the popular collector for West Gwillimbury.
In referring to long ago customs and conditions, Mr. Kilkenny tells us that at one time residents would not permit the making of coffins before required, and that his grandfather had often begun the making of a coffin in the night, working from rough lumber by the light of tallow candle held by his wife, in order to have it made in sufficient time. Mr. T. Kilkenny, the founder, brought the first hearse into Simcoe County, a one-horse one. A funeral held at some distance from town in those early days often meant an absence from home of three days for the undertaker, who went to the bereaved home and stayed until after the funeral.
NOTE 1: errors were not corrected
NOTE 2: A microfilmed copy of Thomas Kilkenny's original records is available at the Archives of Ontario. Thomas Kilkenny fonds
Creator: Kilkenny, Thomas, fl. 1847-1870
Dates of material: Microfilmed 1964 (originally created 1847-1870)
Reference Number: F 145
Biographical sketch/Administrative History: Thomas Kilkenny (fl. 1847-1870) was the owner of a furniture, carpentry, and funeral business in southern Ontario.
_________________________________________________________
The Bradford Witness
VOLUME: Vol. 98, No. 27
VOLUME DATE: July 03, 1963
21 June 1963
Mr. Frank Kilkenny appeared to make good progress during the first few days following the accident which necessitated the amputation of part of his leg, and hope was extended that he might recover, although it was realized that he was still in a state of shock. The accident occurred on Saturday and by Thursday a change was noted and on Friday he passed away.
Mr. Kilkenny was born and educated in Bradford and he took over the business of his father. In 1938 he celebrated the centennial of the Kilkenny funeral and furniture business in Bradford and continued in that business until his retirement, when his son continued with the furniture part of the business.
He was secretary-treasurer of Bradford Public School Board for many years; was a member and past master of Simcoe Masonic Lodge No. 79 and he received a 50-year jewel from that Lodge recently in recognition of his long term of membership; a member of the Orange Order and the I.O.F., as well as a curler and lawn bowler.
His church was the Presbyterian. Mr. Kilkenny was predeceased by his wife, the former Lila Neilly, in July, 1928. He is survived by one son, Keith, of Bradford, and one daughter, Mrs. J. M. Booth (Ruth) of Bradford; also five sisters, Mrs. Howard Carscadden (Bertha), Stayner; Mrs. D. E. McColl (Emily) and Mrs. T. H. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. George Atkinson (Helen), Mt. Albert, and Mrs. Lorne Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Three sisters predeceased him, Mrs. Jewell (Clara), Mrs. Wm. Simpkin (Lulu) and Alma, who died in infancy.
The private funeral was held on June 24 from the Lathangue-Kilkenny Funeral Home, with Rev. F. G. MacTavish conducting the funeral services. Interment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
The pallbearers were Ralph Jewell, Fred Wilson, John Arnold, Wray Carscadden, R. H. Devereux, Art Lloyd.
BRADFORD WITNESS and South Simcoe News
Bradford, Ontario, Wednesday, December 14, 1938
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
The Century Anniversary of the T. Kilkenny and Son firm, celebrated last Saturday afternoon and evening by a reception given at the firm's place of business by its present owner, was, to use Frank Kilkenny's own words, "one of the nicest days in my life." From one o'clock noon until midnight, friends from the town, the township, from Innisfil and its villages, from Elmvale, Midland, Aurora, Newmarket, Toronto, Guelph and other points, to the number of over eight hundred, came to extend their felicitations. Though the building is spacious, it was crowed at all times, afternoon and evening, A hundredth anniversary is a rare occasion and this one was most fittingly celebrated.
The business men of the town presented the flowers for the occasion, gold and orchid colored mums, to the number of several multiples of the anniversary years, and great baskets of these gorgeous flowers, were banked about the rooms. The Bradford Band added a pleasant feature by a surprise visit, playing in front of the building in the evening for about an hour. Young and old, many well on in their "eighties," came distances, to express their good wishes to F. Kilkenny and members of the family.
Exhibited at the front of the furniture store were enlarged photographs of Mr. T. Kilkenny the founder of the firm and his wife: a huge pot of English ivy brought to Bradford by Mr. F. Kilkenny's grandmother over seventy years ago; a hand-made swing mirror and stand made by the late T. Kilkenny and presented to Mr. Frank Kilkenny by Mrs. Walter McLean; and a fine butternut hand-made bureau with swing mirror, also made by T. Kilkenny, and loaned for the occasion by the Misses Reive of Churchill. The two latter pieces bore the firm's stamp which read, "T. Kilkenny Cabinet Maker, Upholster, and Undertaker, also dealer in all kinds of Furniture. Coffins kept ready made and hearse supplied. Holland Street, Bradford."
Of the relics of this old business, the most interesting is a ledger, first dates being in 1844, the book covering accounts with the firm over a period of five years, up to 1849. The records are beautifully written, far more legible than many present day books, and during the first three years the prices are recorded in pounds, shillings, and pence, changing in 1847 to dollars and cents.
Old Cradle
The writer was shown an entry in the ledger - in 1849 Robert Wood purchased a cradle. Our late postmaster, Mr. William Wood, was born that year, and that old cradle is still in the possession of Mr. Clarence Wood at Lornewood.
Names of 1844-49.
We listed some of the names found in that old ledger, in the order in which they appear, ad we believe many of these names will revive memories of stories heard in childhood, and may even provide inspiration for Mr. Pratt or some other scribe to write some early history for our columns. These names predate our readers, but are the forefathers of many of our residents, and are as follows: Samuel Driffill, Joseph Bingham, Edward Bingham, Thomas Wallace, George Turner, George Douglas, Archie McLellan, Gideon Phillips, George McKay, George McConkey, Thomas Driffill, Prince Belfry, John Armstrong, Thos. Maconchey, A. Sutherland, Robt. Wood, John Merick, J.W. Barry, Ebenezer Todd, Hugh Armson, Hugh Stoddart, Angus Gunn, Benjamin Sutherland, Samuel Manning, Roderick McKay, John Ginty, John Thorpe, George Sinclair, Robt. Bingham, Samuel Trott, John Gibbons, Thos. Goodfellow, Robt. Sutherland, Timothy Rogers, Robt. Wallace, John Wood, Andrew Neilly, James Stoddart, James Lawrence, J.W.H. Wilson, Stanley Spillette, John O'Donnell, John Hockeridge, Martin Dillon, Job Morris, Ed. Lee, Ben Barnard, Committee of Bradford Methodist Church (for parsonage furniture), Henry Manning, Robt. Stewart. Wm. Edmanson, Thomas Evans, John and David McKinstry, Thos. Herrick, John Boddy, Wm. McCausland, John Gilheeny, Wm. Strong, John Murphy, Scott and Graham, Thos. Walmsley, Robt. Bingham, Andy Ormsby, Robt. Algeo, James Clement, Ed. Sheldon, Wilson Stoddart, McMaster, Dr. Scofield, Hugh Ross, Thos. Scanlon, Wm. Lount, Fisher, L. Butterfield, J. Falconbridge, Samuel Lee, Donald Sutherland, Thos. Dewson, Wilcox, Jelly, Miss Jeff, Dave Stoddart, Thos. Graham, Jas. Barrowman, Gibson Cook, Walter Rogers, Ed. Dissette, John Ed. Stoddart, and John Rose.
Callers were welcomed on Saturday at the door of the store by Mr. Frank Kilkenny and his son, Keith. They were shown through the building, which as been renovated and redecorated during the past few years, and invited to register. Refreshments were served upstairs in the spacious newly renovated room at the front of the building, which, in the future, when occasion arises, will be used as a funeral home.
Family Present
The seven sisters of Mr. F. Kilkenny, and seven members of the fourth...
(continued on page 4)
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
(continued from page 1)
...generation, all assisted in receiving the guests. Mrs. Jewell (Clara) of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Carscadden (Bertha) of Stayner, poured tea and coffee at the lace covered, taper lighted, gold and mauve trimmed table, which was centred with the huge storied birthday cake, decorated in white, with the lettering in gold "1838-1938" and on the other side, "100 years." The other sisters assisting were: Mrs. Simpkin (Lulu), Bradford; Mrs. McColl (Emily), Toronto; Mrs. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. Atkinson (Helen), Bradford; and Mrs. Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Of the fourth generation, Keith Kilkenny was with his father down stairs, while assisting throughout the building were, Ruth Kilkenny, Alan Atkinson, Doris Carscadden, Wray Carscadden and Lorne Carscadden. Misses Gwen and Evelyn Ward also assisted in the tea room.
The draw for the beautiful airspring mattress was won by Helen Brown, daughter of the popular collector for West Gwillimbury.
In referring to long ago customs and conditions, Mr. Kilkenny tells us that at one time residents would not permit the making of coffins before required, and that his grandfather had often begun the making of a coffin in the night, working from rough lumber by the light of tallow candle held by his wife, in order to have it made in sufficient time. Mr. T. Kilkenny, the founder, brought the first hearse into Simcoe County, a one-horse one. A funeral held at some distance from town in those early days often meant an absence from home of three days for the undertaker, who went to the bereaved home and stayed until after the funeral.
NOTE 1: errors were not corrected
NOTE 2: A microfilmed copy of Thomas Kilkenny's original records is available at the Archives of Ontario. Thomas Kilkenny fonds
Creator: Kilkenny, Thomas, fl. 1847-1870
Dates of material: Microfilmed 1964 (originally created 1847-1870)
Reference Number: F 145
Biographical sketch/Administrative History: Thomas Kilkenny (fl. 1847-1870) was the owner of a furniture, carpentry, and funeral business in southern Ontario.
_________________________________________________________
The Bradford Witness
VOLUME: Vol. 98, No. 27
VOLUME DATE: July 03, 1963
21 June 1963
Mr. Frank Kilkenny appeared to make good progress during the first few days following the accident which necessitated the amputation of part of his leg, and hope was extended that he might recover, although it was realized that he was still in a state of shock. The accident occurred on Saturday and by Thursday a change was noted and on Friday he passed away.
Mr. Kilkenny was born and educated in Bradford and he took over the business of his father. In 1938 he celebrated the centennial of the Kilkenny funeral and furniture business in Bradford and continued in that business until his retirement, when his son continued with the furniture part of the business.
He was secretary-treasurer of Bradford Public School Board for many years; was a member and past master of Simcoe Masonic Lodge No. 79 and he received a 50-year jewel from that Lodge recently in recognition of his long term of membership; a member of the Orange Order and the I.O.F., as well as a curler and lawn bowler.
His church was the Presbyterian. Mr. Kilkenny was predeceased by his wife, the former Lila Neilly, in July, 1928. He is survived by one son, Keith, of Bradford, and one daughter, Mrs. J. M. Booth (Ruth) of Bradford; also five sisters, Mrs. Howard Carscadden (Bertha), Stayner; Mrs. D. E. McColl (Emily) and Mrs. T. H. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. George Atkinson (Helen), Mt. Albert, and Mrs. Lorne Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Three sisters predeceased him, Mrs. Jewell (Clara), Mrs. Wm. Simpkin (Lulu) and Alma, who died in infancy.
The private funeral was held on June 24 from the Lathangue-Kilkenny Funeral Home, with Rev. F. G. MacTavish conducting the funeral services. Interment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
The pallbearers were Ralph Jewell, Fred Wilson, John Arnold, Wray Carscadden, R. H. Devereux, Art Lloyd.
Bradford, Ontario, Wednesday, December 14, 1938
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
The Century Anniversary of the T. Kilkenny and Son firm, celebrated last Saturday afternoon and evening by a reception given at the firm's place of business by its present owner, was, to use Frank Kilkenny's own words, "one of the nicest days in my life." From one o'clock noon until midnight, friends from the town, the township, from Innisfil and its villages, from Elmvale, Midland, Aurora, Newmarket, Toronto, Guelph and other points, to the number of over eight hundred, came to extend their felicitations. Though the building is spacious, it was crowed at all times, afternoon and evening, A hundredth anniversary is a rare occasion and this one was most fittingly celebrated.
The business men of the town presented the flowers for the occasion, gold and orchid colored mums, to the number of several multiples of the anniversary years, and great baskets of these gorgeous flowers, were banked about the rooms. The Bradford Band added a pleasant feature by a surprise visit, playing in front of the building in the evening for about an hour. Young and old, many well on in their "eighties," came distances, to express their good wishes to F. Kilkenny and members of the family.
Exhibited at the front of the furniture store were enlarged photographs of Mr. T. Kilkenny the founder of the firm and his wife: a huge pot of English ivy brought to Bradford by Mr. F. Kilkenny's grandmother over seventy years ago; a hand-made swing mirror and stand made by the late T. Kilkenny and presented to Mr. Frank Kilkenny by Mrs. Walter McLean; and a fine butternut hand-made bureau with swing mirror, also made by T. Kilkenny, and loaned for the occasion by the Misses Reive of Churchill. The two latter pieces bore the firm's stamp which read, "T. Kilkenny Cabinet Maker, Upholster, and Undertaker, also dealer in all kinds of Furniture. Coffins kept ready made and hearse supplied. Holland Street, Bradford."
Of the relics of this old business, the most interesting is a ledger, first dates being in 1844, the book covering accounts with the firm over a period of five years, up to 1849. The records are beautifully written, far more legible than many present day books, and during the first three years the prices are recorded in pounds, shillings, and pence, changing in 1847 to dollars and cents.
Old Cradle
The writer was shown an entry in the ledger - in 1849 Robert Wood purchased a cradle. Our late postmaster, Mr. William Wood, was born that year, and that old cradle is still in the possession of Mr. Clarence Wood at Lornewood.
Names of 1844-49.
We listed some of the names found in that old ledger, in the order in which they appear, ad we believe many of these names will revive memories of stories heard in childhood, and may even provide inspiration for Mr. Pratt or some other scribe to write some early history for our columns. These names predate our readers, but are the forefathers of many of our residents, and are as follows: Samuel Driffill, Joseph Bingham, Edward Bingham, Thomas Wallace, George Turner, George Douglas, Archie McLellan, Gideon Phillips, George McKay, George McConkey, Thomas Driffill, Prince Belfry, John Armstrong, Thos. Maconchey, A. Sutherland, Robt. Wood, John Merick, J.W. Barry, Ebenezer Todd, Hugh Armson, Hugh Stoddart, Angus Gunn, Benjamin Sutherland, Samuel Manning, Roderick McKay, John Ginty, John Thorpe, George Sinclair, Robt. Bingham, Samuel Trott, John Gibbons, Thos. Goodfellow, Robt. Sutherland, Timothy Rogers, Robt. Wallace, John Wood, Andrew Neilly, James Stoddart, James Lawrence, J.W.H. Wilson, Stanley Spillette, John O'Donnell, John Hockeridge, Martin Dillon, Job Morris, Ed. Lee, Ben Barnard, Committee of Bradford Methodist Church (for parsonage furniture), Henry Manning, Robt. Stewart. Wm. Edmanson, Thomas Evans, John and David McKinstry, Thos. Herrick, John Boddy, Wm. McCausland, John Gilheeny, Wm. Strong, John Murphy, Scott and Graham, Thos. Walmsley, Robt. Bingham, Andy Ormsby, Robt. Algeo, James Clement, Ed. Sheldon, Wilson Stoddart, McMaster, Dr. Scofield, Hugh Ross, Thos. Scanlon, Wm. Lount, Fisher, L. Butterfield, J. Falconbridge, Samuel Lee, Donald Sutherland, Thos. Dewson, Wilcox, Jelly, Miss Jeff, Dave Stoddart, Thos. Graham, Jas. Barrowman, Gibson Cook, Walter Rogers, Ed. Dissette, John Ed. Stoddart, and John Rose.
Callers were welcomed on Saturday at the door of the store by Mr. Frank Kilkenny and his son, Keith. They were shown through the building, which as been renovated and redecorated during the past few years, and invited to register. Refreshments were served upstairs in the spacious newly renovated room at the front of the building, which, in the future, when occasion arises, will be used as a funeral home.
Family Present
The seven sisters of Mr. F. Kilkenny, and seven members of the fourth...
(continued on page 4)
Over 800 Attend Reception Honor of 100th Anniversary of T. Kilkenny & Son Firm
(continued from page 1)
...generation, all assisted in receiving the guests. Mrs. Jewell (Clara) of Tillsonburg, and Mrs. Carscadden (Bertha) of Stayner, poured tea and coffee at the lace covered, taper lighted, gold and mauve trimmed table, which was centred with the huge storied birthday cake, decorated in white, with the lettering in gold "1838-1938" and on the other side, "100 years." The other sisters assisting were: Mrs. Simpkin (Lulu), Bradford; Mrs. McColl (Emily), Toronto; Mrs. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. Atkinson (Helen), Bradford; and Mrs. Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Of the fourth generation, Keith Kilkenny was with his father down stairs, while assisting throughout the building were, Ruth Kilkenny, Alan Atkinson, Doris Carscadden, Wray Carscadden and Lorne Carscadden. Misses Gwen and Evelyn Ward also assisted in the tea room.
The draw for the beautiful airspring mattress was won by Helen Brown, daughter of the popular collector for West Gwillimbury.
In referring to long ago customs and conditions, Mr. Kilkenny tells us that at one time residents would not permit the making of coffins before required, and that his grandfather had often begun the making of a coffin in the night, working from rough lumber by the light of tallow candle held by his wife, in order to have it made in sufficient time. Mr. T. Kilkenny, the founder, brought the first hearse into Simcoe County, a one-horse one. A funeral held at some distance from town in those early days often meant an absence from home of three days for the undertaker, who went to the bereaved home and stayed until after the funeral.
NOTE 1: errors were not corrected
NOTE 2: A microfilmed copy of Thomas Kilkenny's original records is available at the Archives of Ontario. Thomas Kilkenny fonds
Creator: Kilkenny, Thomas, fl. 1847-1870
Dates of material: Microfilmed 1964 (originally created 1847-1870)
Reference Number: F 145
Biographical sketch/Administrative History: Thomas Kilkenny (fl. 1847-1870) was the owner of a furniture, carpentry, and funeral business in southern Ontario.
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The Bradford Witness
VOLUME: Vol. 98, No. 27
VOLUME DATE: July 03, 1963
21 June 1963
Mr. Frank Kilkenny appeared to make good progress during the first few days following the accident which necessitated the amputation of part of his leg, and hope was extended that he might recover, although it was realized that he was still in a state of shock. The accident occurred on Saturday and by Thursday a change was noted and on Friday he passed away.
Mr. Kilkenny was born and educated in Bradford and he took over the business of his father. In 1938 he celebrated the centennial of the Kilkenny funeral and furniture business in Bradford and continued in that business until his retirement, when his son continued with the furniture part of the business.
He was secretary-treasurer of Bradford Public School Board for many years; was a member and past master of Simcoe Masonic Lodge No. 79 and he received a 50-year jewel from that Lodge recently in recognition of his long term of membership; a member of the Orange Order and the I.O.F., as well as a curler and lawn bowler.
His church was the Presbyterian. Mr. Kilkenny was predeceased by his wife, the former Lila Neilly, in July, 1928. He is survived by one son, Keith, of Bradford, and one daughter, Mrs. J. M. Booth (Ruth) of Bradford; also five sisters, Mrs. Howard Carscadden (Bertha), Stayner; Mrs. D. E. McColl (Emily) and Mrs. T. H. Carter (Laura), Bradford; Mrs. George Atkinson (Helen), Mt. Albert, and Mrs. Lorne Arnold (Evelyn), Cookstown. Three sisters predeceased him, Mrs. Jewell (Clara), Mrs. Wm. Simpkin (Lulu) and Alma, who died in infancy.
The private funeral was held on June 24 from the Lathangue-Kilkenny Funeral Home, with Rev. F. G. MacTavish conducting the funeral services. Interment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
The pallbearers were Ralph Jewell, Fred Wilson, John Arnold, Wray Carscadden, R. H. Devereux, Art Lloyd.
Inscription
KILKENNY / Lila Neilly / wife of Frank KILKENNY / Died July 15, 1928 / Frank KILKENNY / Died June 21, 1963
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