Pinchen, Thomas (1845-1909)

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Primitive Methodist Magazine 1910

Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine M.J.

Moorsley Society, Hetton Circuit, has suffered considerable loss by the death of Mr. Thomas Pinchen, June 25th, 1909. For 31 years he maintained a lively interest in the Church. Born at Corpusty, in Norfolk, March 11th, 1845, with his family he moved to Moorsley in 1873. 

After attending Sabbath School about six months he was converted. Always the moving spirit in connection with the choir, school and Band of Hope, he never neglected the weekly prayer meeting. If there alone, the prayer meeting was held.

For 25 years his house was the home of the Circuit ministers. He was loved especially by the children, and always nursed some child that had become weary in the service. While an ardent worker in every good cause, it is his sterling character that stands out in the minds of men, and he will long remain the ideal of those with whom he lived and laboured. Though no scholar, he acted as Pastor of the village for the sick and dying, especially of those who attended no place of worship. 

On the day of the funeral the little chapel was packed to hear Rev. M. Johnson speak of his character and work. He leaves a widow and four sons, the eldest being the Rev. John Pinchen.

Family

Thomas was born on 11 March 1845 at Corpusty, Norfolk, to parents William Pinchen, who worked the land (1851), and Mary Ann Harrison.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Thomas.

• 1871 farm labourer
• 1881 coal miner
• 1891 coal miner
• 1901 housekeeper in coal pit

He married Rebecca Dagless (1847-1915) on 21 May 1866 at Saxthorpe, Norfolk. Census returns identify four of six children.

• John (1867-1946) – PM minister
• Thomas (1869-1932) – manager of Co-op store (1891); yeast depot manager (1911)
• George (1870-1950) – a police sergeant (1911); retired police superintendent (1939)
• Robert William (1879-1951) – a stationary engiineman (1911)

Thomas died on 25 June 1909 at Moorsley, Co. Durham.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1910/150

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers