Wilson, Benjamin (1848-1914)

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Transcription of obituary published in the Primitive Methodist Magazine by John Wilson

My brother Benjamin was born at Bawtry in Yorkshire February 17th, 1848, and departed this life December 27th, 1914. He was converted in the old Chapel, Carolgate, Retford, nearly fifty years ago. He rendered useful service there, and afterwards at Spring Gardens, Trinity Street and Shakespeare Street, Gainsborough. 

As a local preacher for about forty-seven years he travelled far to carry the good news of the Kingdom. As class leader he excelled, especially during the middle part of his life. As society steward he was attentive to his duty. In family life he was a dutiful son and a loving husband and father. 

When he departed this life the Church on earth lost one of its most devoted and useful members, for “he was a good man, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith.” In connection with his funeral Revs. A. Baldwin and W.E. Robson officiated. His life has been a fine expression of the Christian religion. In health and sickness, midst joy or sorrow, during times of loss or gain, and finally in death this religion was his strength and song.

Family

Benjamin was born on 17 February 1848 at Bawtry, Yorkshire, to parents Jonathan Wilson, a tailor (1851), and Jane.

Census returns identify the following occupations for Benjamin.

• 1861 no occupation recorded
• 1871 boiler maker
• 1881 boiler caulker
• 1891 boiler tester
• 1901 foreman boiler tester
• 1911 retired farmer

He married Emma Middleton (1849-1928) in the spring of 1870 at Gainsborough, Lincolnshire. Census returns identify five children.

• John James (1871-1872)
• Emily (1872-1882)
• James William (1874-1881)
• Walter (1876-1963) – an iron turner (1911)
• Ernest (1881-1897)

Benjamin died on 27 December 1914  at Gainsborough, Lincolnshire.

References

Primitive Methodist Magazine 1915/412

Census Returns and Births, Marriages & Deaths Registers