Hirst, Robert Frederick (1847-1915)

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Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by J. Maland

On Saturday, May 1st, Robert F. Hirst entered the Summerland, after a life of rare beauty and fruitfulness. Formerly associated with Bethel Church, Sheffield, over twenty years ago he came to the newly formed Abbeydale Church, serving with exceptional ability as Sunday school superintendent, leader of the Young People’s Class, and, in next year, as president of the Institute. 

In his home and in the church he was always advancing the interests of young folk, and had the joy of leading many to Christ. Much of the progress of Abbeydale C.E. is owing to his resourceful leadership and untiring effort. He served with marked success as president of the Sheffield and District Union. 

He was a fine type of Christian manhood; absolutely sincere, bold in action, loyal to deep convictions, ever making Christ sovereign in every realm of his life. He was proud of his Church, and served her lovingly and well. 

On May 4th former Sunday school scholars carried his earthly remains to Sharrow Cemetery, after a service in Abbeydale Church. Rev. J.R. Tranmer held a memorial service on the following Sabbath evening. 

Family

Robert was born in the summer of 1847 at Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, to parents John Hirst, a PM minister, and Ann Hopkinson Howson.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Robert.

• 1861 scholar
• 1871 electroplate piece worker
• 1881 maker up of electro plated goods
• 1891 silversmith (piecer)
• 1901 silver and electro plate worker
• 1911 silversmith – maker up of silver goods

He married Emily Staniforth (1852-1928) on 8 August 1872 at Heeley Christ Church, Sheffield, Yorkshire.

Robert died on 1 May 1915 at Sheffield, Yorkshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1915/833

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers