John Thomas Farndale

15 June 1854 to 21 March 1930

The Bank Manager of Thirsk

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The young Banker

John Thomas Farndale was the son of William and Ann (nee Brown) Farndale, the Master Mariner, who we met in Act 15. He was born on 15 June 1854 and baptised on 13 July 1854 in Whitby.

In 1861 John was living at 6 Clarence Place, Ruswarp, Whitby, with his mother and his sister, Jane. His father William was probably at sea. Ruswarp is a village south of Whitby, in the Esk Valley.

John joined the staff of the North Eastern Branch in Middlesbrough in 1873. After an apprenticeship of seven years John Farndale left the Middlesbrough Branch, and joined the staff of the Head Office at York of the old York Union Bank. In 1881, aged 26, he was a banker’s clerk, boarding at 6 Priory Street, Holy Trinity, Micklegate, York. He was a bank clerk in 1888 when his mother died. Administration of the personal estate of Ann Farndale late of Whitby in the county of York widow who died 22 May 1888 at Whitby was granted at York to John Thomas Farndale of the City of York Clerk in the Union Bank in the said city the son and one of the next of kin.

The Thirsk Bank Manager

By 1890, John Farndale was manager of the Thirsk Branch of the York Union Bank. In January 1890, Mr. John T Farndale, of the York Union Bank, York, has been appointed manager of the Thirsk branch of that bank company in place of Mr William Chapman, transferred to a similar post at the Scarborough office.

We have to announce the appointment of Mr John T Farndale, of the head office of the company at York, as manager of the York Union Bank in this town, in place of Mr William Chapman, who is being removed to Scarborough.

By December 1891, Brother John Farndale was a free mason and acting as treasurer. The annual festival of the Falcon lodge, 1416, and the installation of the Worshipful Master for the ensuing year took place at the Masonic hall, Castleyard, yesterday when Brother the Rev Eusebins Richardson MA was installed WM. The installation ceremony was performed by various people including Brother JT Farndale, secretary. A banquet was afterwards held at Brother Hall’s, the Fleece Hotel, at which the usual Masonic toasts were duly honoured, and a pleasant evening was spent.

In February 1891 the annual Masonic ball in connection with the Falcon lodge, No 1,416, took place at the Assembly Rooms, Thirsk. The music was supplied by Amer’s Newcastle quadrille band. The following accepted invitations, Mr Farndale, Miss Farndale. Miss Farndale was his sister Jane who lived with him.

He was also a member of the naturalists’ society of Thirsk. In January 1891 the monthly meeting of the Thirsk Naturalists society was held on Monday evening in the Savings Bank Music room, when there was a good attendance of members, and Mr J T Farndale presided. Specimens of Brazilian seeds and fruits, previously named by Mr George Nicholson, of Kew, were exhibited, and remarked upon by the Rev T Dickin, who spoke of their various habitats and properties, as well as the origin and significance of their names. Mr W Foggitt, botanical secretary, also spoke on several of the exhibits. The specimens showed elicited considerable attention, and the proceedings throughout were of an interesting and instructive character. Mr Robert Lee, vertebrate secretary, also shared specimens. Hearty thanks were recorded to the exhibitors, and Mr Dickin, in responding, said they in Thirsk were highly favoured; in fact, very few towns in Yorkshire were so situated, possessing as they did men of such celebrity in connection with the society, and he would sincerely recommend the young people to take advantage of the helps they had.

He was also involved with the church. In April 1891 a meeting was held in the crypt of the parish church, the vicar in the chair. Mr George Ayre and Mr Farndale were added to the number of sidesman.

At the time of the census in 1891, John visited his sister, Jane who was still living at the family home at 3 North Terrace, Ruswarp, Whitby.

The York Union Bank was amalgamated with Messrs Barclay and Company, Limited in 1892.

In October 1892, John was attending local social gatherings. The York Assembly Rooms on Thursday night presented one of those brilliant spectacles associated by time and custom with the honoured traditions of the city. The occasion was an “at home”, given by the Sheriff and Miss Foster, whose invitations were very numerous, and the acceptance is numbered about 800; the gathering, as will be seemed from the subjoined list of guests, being of a thoroughly representative character. The ball, for such was the form which the proceedings took, proved of a most enjoyable character. The embellishment of the principal room, which was allotted to dancing, and of the festival concert room, used for supper and as a promenade was of a superb character. The list of attendees included Mr J T Farndale, Thirsk.

John was also involved in the cycling club. The members of the Thirsk Cycling Club held their annual supper on Wednesday evening at Mr Barnett's Temperance Hotel. There was an excellent attendance of members and friends and a sumptuous repast was provided. Mr Z Wright occupied the chair, and Mr. J Storey the vice chair. After the usual loyal toasts had been drunk, Mr J T Farndale proposed the health of the Archbishop, clergy, and ministers of all denominations, he regretted, as he felt sure they all would, that the vicar of the parish was not with them as on the last occasion, and more especially where they sorry that illness was the cause of his absence. The vice chairman proposed the health of the visitors, to which Mr J T Farndale and Mr W Mawson spoke.

The members of the Thirsk Cycling Club held their annual supper last evening at Mr Barnett's Temperance Hotel. There was an excellent attendance of members and friends, and a sumptuous repast was provided. Mr Z Wright took about the chair, and Mr. J Storey the vice chair. After the usual loyal toasts had been drunk Mr J T Farndale proposed the health of the Archbishop, clergy, and ministers of all denominations, he regretted, as he felt sure they all would, that the vicar of the parish was not with them as on the last occasion. The vice chairman proposed the health of the visitors, to which Mr JT Farndale and Mr W Mawson spoke.

In December, the annual festival and installation of the Worshipful Master of the Falcon lodge of Freemasons, No 1416, took place at the Masonic hall, Thirsk, yesterday. J T Farndale, secretary.

A man of multiple interests, he was also a member of the Thirsk Chess Club. The members of the Thirsk Chess Club, and friends, inaugurated the season for resuming their meetings by having an opening dinner at the headquarters of the club, at the Three Tuns Hotel. There was an influential and representative gathering, for whom the host and hostess, Mr and Mrs R Long, catered with the greatest satisfaction. The postprandial proceedings were of a pleasing and harmonious character, and the tone of the gathering showed that the chess club has become an interesting institution of the town. After the usual loyal toasts had been duly honoured; the chairman's submitted the toast of the Archbishop, clergy and ministers of all denominations... Mr Z Wright submitted the health of the visitors, and spoke at the pleasure which their presence gave to the members. Mr C Mc C Swarbrick and Mr J T Farndale replied, and wished prosperity to the club. The town and trade Thirsk was proposed.

A finely carved oak Litany Desk has been presented to the church by a member of the congregation in April 1893. A richly embroidered white silk veil and burse for use at the altar, has been given by Mr Farndale; and a handsomely worked white silk frontal for the altar cross stand has been received from Miss Hall. In the same month, an adjourned parish meeting was held in the crypt of the parish church, when the vicar occupied the chair. There was a good attendance of parishioners, and the chairman announced it as the intention of Mr Farndale and Mr Robert Jack to retire from the sidesmanship.

Of Thirsk Parish Church in 1893, the Rev J C Hanson was the chairman when the above accounts were passed, Mr John T Farndale, the auditor.

Under the heading Thirsk Jottings, the secretary of the Falcon Lodge, Mr John T Farndale, in June 1893, has received the following reply to a unanimous vote of congratulation to HRH, the Duke of York, on the occasion of his approaching marriage with HSH, the Princess May of Teck; “Marlborough House, Pall Mall, SW. Sir, I am desired by HRH the Duke of York to ask you to thank the members of the Falcon Lodge, No 1416, for their kind congratulations and good wishes. I am Sir you obediant servant, signed, Charles Leopold Cust, Equerry.” John T Farndale, Esq, Thirsk.

The committee appointed by the council of the borough to make arrangements for the celebrations of the Royal wedding, have with the assistance of several ladies and gentlemen who have been added to their number, been working very actively. Subscription lists have been opened in all parts of the town, and have been well responded to, particularly in the smaller amounts from the poor. The objects of the committee are to provide a tea for the school children of all denominations and old people over 80 years of age, and to hold athletic sports during the day. A committee consisting of the following was formed. J T Farndale, secretary and treasurer.

In October 1893, Earl Cathcart has forwarded to Mr Farndale, York Union Bank, Thirsk, honorary secretary to the Royal Marriage Memorial Fund, the sum of £5.

The monthly meeting of this society was held in September 1893 in the Savings Bank Music Room, Mr J T Farndale presided, and there was a good attendance of members. The meeting was of the most interesting character, and the extensive collection of botanical and vertebrate specimens exhibited was highly appreciated. Mr W Foggitt, botanical secretary, had a splendid display of plants, including several rarities, respecting which he gave most instructive information. Several of them had been found in the neighbourhood, but the greater proportion he had gathered while on a recent visit to Wales.

The annual festival of the Falcon lodge, No 1416, and the installation of the Worshipful Master for the ensuing year, took place in December 1893 at Masonic hall. Bro J T Farndale, secretary.

In 1893 a public meeting was held to decide on a suitable way of celebrating the approaching marriage of H.R.H. the Duke of York to Princess Mary of Teck, later coming to the Throne as King George V and Queen Mary. Proposals were made ranging from water troughs, fountains and clocks. The final agreed design was for an illuminated turret clock and drinking fountain which was costed at £200. The old Cross stump and steps were removed and relocated to the left of The Hall where they can still be seen today.

In December 1893 a decision was made to proceed with a memorial clock. At a meeting of the committee held on Wednesday evening, at which there were present various folk including J T Farndale, secretary, it was decided to proceed with the works.

Subscriptions were not as forthcoming as had been hoped and in 1895, to show the impatience that was growing with the delay in the construction of the clock, a dummy clock was erected on a pole on the location, with a clock face on barrel lids and a notice saying No Tick Here!

Eventually in 1896, some three years after the wedding, the clock was finally erected by a contractor.

In January 1894 a meeting convened by the invitation of Lady Payne Gallway, Thirkleby Park, was held in the Assembly Rooms, Thirsk, to hear an address from the Rev Benjamin Waugh, honorary director of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, and to consider the desirability of forming a branch in Thirsk. Amongst the company present were Mr J T Farndale. Mr J T Farndale, Thirsk, was invited to become secretary of the branch, and he consented to do so. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Lady Gallway at the close of the proceedings.

It was decided to appoint a representative in each parish in the Rural Deanery, and a meeting is to be held in February, when deputation will attend the parent society.

In March 1894 the first meeting of the Thirsk District Committee was held in the Assembly Rooms, when there were present. Mr. John T Farndale was honorary secretary and Lady Payne Gallway presided, and proposed “That the committee adopts the constitution of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and undertakes to work in harmony with its spirit and rules, and directs that application be made to the Central Committee for incorporation as a district committee to the York and mid Yorkshire branch.”

In the same month, at a meeting of the Clock Tower Committee, held on Tuesday evening, at which there were present various individuals including J T Farndale, it was decided to proceed with the works in the erection of the tower forthwith, and that the design for the more ornamental stone tower, which was submitted, be substituted in place at the brick tower it was originally proposed to erect. The estimate for the works, which were submitted to the annual meeting and accepted, amounted £204 12s. About £30 is still required to meet the cost, which the committee hope they may soon be able to raise.

The annual Easter vestry meeting was held on Tuesday afternoon in the crypt of the Thirsk Parish Church, for the purpose of electing churchwardens and sidesmen, and passing the accounts. The whole of the sidesmen were reappointed. The list of sidesmen now including Mr Farndale again.

In April 1894 a meeting at the Thirsk District Committee was held at the York Union Bank House. When any offences against children are committed, information should be sent to the district correspondent, Mr J T Farndale, York Union Bank, Thirsk.

The committee have arranged for a jumble sale to be held in the Assembly Rooms, on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 4th and 5th February, 1896, the proceeds of which will be applied towards the extinction of the debt still outstanding on the Building Fund. A jumble sale offers a great grand opportunity for the disposal of articles for which parties have no further use, and on the other hand it is a medium by which others, especially the poor, may obtain useful articles at a nominal price. Already Mr Richard Pearson, Market place, and the honorary secretary, Mr J T Farndale, York Union Bank House, to either of whom goods may be sent direct, have received a number of books, a large quantity of old clothes, and a miscellaneous collection of useful effects.

A jumble sale commenced in the Assembly Rooms, on Tuesday, when there were there was an exceptionally large number of purchasers. The sale was in aid of the funds to defray the small debt which exists on the building of the clock, and was managed by Mr Farndale, and Miss Farndale was present.

In relation to the Thirsk Institute, the committee of this useful institution, in providing their annual report, regret that they have to show a deficit of £13 14s 3d on the year. This, it is stated, arises by loss of subscriptions and rents. Every effort has been made to continue the advantages offered by the institute. It is managed by a most hard working and zealous committee, consisting of individuals including the omnipotent J T Farndale.

In May 1896 the sale of work in aid of the rebuilding of Carlton Minjott Church was largely patronised, and there was a good attendance at the various entertainments given in the public rooms in connection with which Mr J T Farndale undertook the arrangement of this successful adjunct to the sale, and his efforts were ably supplemented by ladies and gentlemen in the immediate neighbourhood, by whom cheerful and efficient service was rendered, as well as by others from a distance. At 3:30, an excellent concert was given; at 4:30 an amusing sketch entitled “The Backward Child,” by Messrs G and L Depuis, Sessay Rectory, was much appreciated; at 7:15 dialect sketches by the Rev ES Carter and Mr JT Wilson, which proved most entertaining; and at 8:15 there was given a grand concert, and tableaux vivants, in which the following took part, Miss Farndale.

Miss Farndale, was Jane, John’s sister.

In January 1899, Mr F A E Samuelson, of Brackenborough Hall, has again paid £10 to Mr J T Farndale, honorary secretary of the Thirsk branch. During the last year a sum of £67 6s 6d was collected by the president, lady Payne Gallway, of Thirkleby park, Thirsk. During the past year five cases were investigated, two of neglect, and three of ill treatment and assault. The Inspector of the York Branch has paid periodic visits to Thirsk and neighbourhood.

In August 1900 a house was offered for sale, in Pleasant Grounds. The Crescent, Thirsk. 4 sitting rooms, 7 bedrooms, Store and Bathrooms, Hot and cold water; Attics, Cellars and Garden. Coach House and Stable optional. Apply Mr J T Farndale, Thirsk. He seems to have been acting as an agent. There was a memo from J T Farndale, York Union Bank, Thirsk to John Dodsworth, relinquishing tenancy of stable and coach house dated 31 May 1900 and a letter from JT Farndale, York Union Bank, Scarborough to Arthur H Kerr, enclosing cheque for rent dated 26 July 1900.

By 1901, John Farndale was head of household and bank manager and living at Market Place, Thirsk with his sister, Jane Farndale who was listed as living on own means.

In March 1903, Mr J T Farndale has handed over on behalf of Lady Payne Gallwey, the President of the Thirsk branch of the NSPCC, as the result of the recent matinee and concert held in the Assembly Rooms, Thirsk, the sum of £31 4s 5d.

In September 1905 Mr Farndale has remitted the sum of £74 10s 2d to the headquarters of the NSPCC on behalf of the Thirsk district branch, being the amount collected by Lady Payne Gallwey for the year 1905. Lady Payne Gallwey is resigning her post of lady president of the local branch, which she has held since its incorporation in 1894. Mr Farndale has also resigned the post of district correspondent, which he has held since the formation of the branch, but Mr J T Farndale, who has so ably acted as secretary and district correspondent since the formation of the local branch of the NSPCC is also resigning, and a meeting for the election of new officers is to be held in October.

A little later, an interesting account of the work and aims of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was given at the 30th annual meeting of the York and mid Yorkshire branch, held in the Mansion House, York, yesterday, under the presidency of Mr W F H Thompson JP. There was a large gathering of ladies and gentlemen. Mr H Watkinson intimated that letters regretting inability to attend the meeting had been received from Mr J T Farndale, Thirsk.

But he continued as Treasurer and in October 1906 Mr J T Farndale, the treasurer of the Thirsk branch of the NSPCC, has, on behalf of Lady Payne Gallwey, remitted the sum of £40 to the society on account of local contributions for the year ending September 1906.

In November 1906 Lord Helmsley MP, for the Thirsk and Malton division, addressed a large meeting of his constituents in the public rooms, Thirsk, last night. Major Bell JP presided, and was supported by various folk including John Farndale.

John Thomas Farndale was involved in a play in 1907 about the History of Thirsk re-enacting key moments, which was later taken up in John’s ancestral home of Whitby encouraged by John, the son of the great merchant mariner, William Farndale of Whitby. In the Assembly Rooms, Thirsk, in February 1907, a meeting was held to consider a proposal for the production of a play illustrative of the history of Thirsk. Major Bell, of Thirsk Hall, who presided, said it was intended to use the proceeds of the play for the parish church insurance fund, and to provide a new heating apparatus for the church. It was the finest church in the north riding and was not insured as it ought to be. He had been looking at some parliamentary records of boroughs in the North Riding, and he found that Thirsk was a borough in the reign of Edward the first. The Reverend F L Perkins said they were much to obliged to Mr Bell for promising the loan of the park for the undertaking. After explaining the objects in view, he said the seems practically suggested where as follows: 1. A forest glade near Thirsk, in which Britons and Norsemen figure; 2. Thirsk marketplace and the collection of evidence for the doomsday book, AD 1080; 3. Thirsk castle and grounds with troops mustered for the march to the Battle of the Standard on the other side of Northallerton, AD 1140; 4. The destruction of Thirsk castle, 1170; 5. A historic scene, when tradition said the Earl of Northumberland came to impose a tax, but was stoned in the marketplace and carried off; 6. An Elizabethan scene, when the heroes of the Armada came to Thirsk and old English revels took place. The chairman proposed that the play be taken in hand. Mr J T Farndale seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously. Mr J T Farndale was elected secretary. A committee was elected with power to add to their number.

In June, the final performances of the Thirsk historical play yesterday were again favoured with fine weather. It being half holiday in Thirsk, there was a large company present. Tuesday's performance was a success from a financial point of view, about £50 being taken at the gates, besides the proceeds from the reserved seats. With yesterday's proceeds, the committee will be in a position to devote a good sum to the objects for which the play was held, namely, the further insurance of the Thirsk Parish Church and for a new heating apparatus. After the afternoon's performance yesterday, the players congregated on the lawn at Thirsk, in order to make a presentation to Mr Gilbert Hudson, one of the masters of the play, who has had full charge of the performers for the last three weeks. Mr Farndale, honorary secretary, in making the presentation of a case of pipes and a match case, said Mr Hudson had given them the finishing touches with great ability. It is with regret that we have to record the death of one of the rose dancers, a little girl named Ida Scott, 13, daughter of Mr Joseph Scott, Thirsk. Although she did not take part in any of the actual performances, yet she had attended the rehearsals until illness overtook her. She died early yesterday morning from influenza, followed by pneumonia. A performance was given last evening, at which there was again a large audience.

In July 1907, the very encouraging words written by Mr. John Farndale in his letter to last week's Gazette ought to act as an incentive to Whitby to set out preparing to produce a pageant. He speaks from practical experience of what the getting up of such an affair means, and surely his kindly words and his generous offer to be of use, coupled with Mr de Ferrar’s special interest, should fire residents with the desire to be up and doing. With two such experienced enthusiasts in the background, able and willing to advise, it would be by no means groping in the dark. Whitby ought not to wait to come in until pageants are being produced everywhere. She should take steps early, while as yet they are a novelty.

A letter followed. Sir. It is flattering to observe that my humble suggestion, that Whitby should celebrate her history in pageant, have been taken up with spirit. Now, will “Lucy” listen to me a minute, while I tell her a secret? In my varied experience in numerous towns, I have found these undertakings only beginning to make real headway when a Ladies’ Committee has been formed, and they begin to make the necessary banners and needlework required for the pageant. Such was the case, even in this great city. Men, and especially businessmen, are too apt to regard the mere business side of the question, to the exclusion of the artistic, and even histrionic. The ladies, on the contrary, are quicker to perceive the possibilities of the beautiful, and picturesque, which dramatic or spectacular ventures afford to the onlooker, and to take up the scheme with more enthusiasm than mere men. Let a few ladies of leading in Whitby agree to consider the question, and we shall, without doubt, have a Whitby pageant. I can endorse every word of Mr Farndale's description of the first historical play. His lucid explanation as to how the scheme was worked up will throw light on the manner a Whitby pageant could be originated. We had many discouragements at first, which were all overcome, and a striking success achieved, and that, too, in a town of 6000 or 7000 inhabitants only.

The historical play at Thirsk has proved a great success in every way. It was promoted for the purpose of raising a sufficient sum for securing the permanent insurance of the fine old parish church, and to aid its reheating. A balance sheet has been made out by the house treasurer, Mr J T Farndale, which shows that, in addition to the grandstands, there remains, after the payment of all expenses, a balance of £204 6s 4d.

Sir. The numerous suggestions recently made in your correspondence column for the in improvement of Whitby, and its attractions, by Messrs John Farndale. Gentlemen, who do not hide their identity under such signatures as “a visitor” but are not ashamed to sign their names their godfathers and godmothers gave them, are worthy of every consideration. The suggested pageant appears an excellent means of providing an “attraction” and, at the same time, bringing Whitby and its history before many to whom its charms are still unknown.

In January 1908, thanks largely to the enthusiasm of Mr J T Farndale, Honorary secretary, a successful children's ball was given on Thursday, last week, for the juveniles connected with the first historical play. On Friday, a fancy dress ball was held.

In January 1909 J T Farndale, Thirsk, has remitted the sum of £47 16s to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, for the year 1908, being the amount collected by Lady Payne Gallwey and the ladies committee.

In March 1910, Thirsk is now provided with a convenient, though small, club, which should in future prove a valuable rallying point for the Conservative party. At present it consists only of a reading room and a billiard room, but there is prospective extension. It starts under favourable auspices. On Saturday afternoon the club was formally opened by Lord Helmsley MP for Thirsk and Malton division. Among those present were Mr J F (sic) Farndale.

In April 1910 at Thirsk, on Thursday, Mr Stephen Kirby sold the house No 10, The Crescent, Thirsk, to Mr J T Farndale, Thirsk, for £405. Messrs Richardson and French, Thirsk, were the vendors’ solicitors.

The annual meeting of the Thirsk branch of the Thirsk and Malton Division Conservative Association was held at the Fleece Hotel, Thirsk, in May 1910, Major Bell, JP presiding. The report was submitted by Mr F Smith, secretary, who took the opportunity of thanking all connected with the branch for the great assistance given and wholehearted work done in connection with the last revision, when 42 claims were made in 38 were successful. They had hoped to still further increase the Conservative vote on the registers. A letter was read from Mr J T Farndale, resigning the position of treasurer. It was agreed to ask him to reconsider his decision, and failing his consent to act, to appoint Mr F R Hansell.

At the Assembly Rooms, Thirsk, in January 1911, the annual ball was held, promoted by Mr J T Farndale, of which the proceeds are devoted to charitable objects. Between forty and fifty couples danced.

Witnessing the Path to War

A meeting under the auspices of the National Service League was held in the public rooms, Thirsk in January 1911. Among those on the platform were Mr J T Farndale. The chairman said he had received a letter from Lord Roberts expressing the hope that they would have a most successful meeting. Colonel Wright, at the outset, criticised a speech delivered in that hall by Mrs Bradlaugh Bonner, on “Peacemakers and Peace Breakers” and pointed out that it was in 1906 when Sir Henry Campbell Bannerman was premier, that in order to set a good example to the other nations of the world he decided to make a considerable reduction in our expenditure on naval construction, and this decrease went on from 1906 to 1909. And what was the result? Did the other nations immediately decrease their expenditure on their navies! Not at all! One nation at once began to accelerate its constructional scheme. Then Mrs Bonner seemed to have been very disappointed that having spent all this money for five and twenty years there had never been a single naval battle. But supposing that this nation had not expended these large sums of money in the construction of her battleships and in securing an overwhelmingly powerful navy what would have happened in the Fashoda episode? There would certainly have been a naval battle. Proceeding, the speaker dealt with other points of Mrs Bonner's speech, among them her contention that the naval competition of England and Germany, undertaken avowedly for the protection of commerce, might be obviated by a declaration that private property at sea should be immune from capture, which she suggested might be done by the Hague Conference. In this connection, he pointed to the Declaration of London, a result of the last Hague Conference, which instead of making any step in the direction indicated rendered neutral vessels carrying supplies of food for this country in wartime liable to be captured or sunk, while at the same time allowing the merchant vessels of any nation with whom we might be at war to be turned into privateers on the high seas. In the further course of his address, Colonel Wright pointed to the inadequacy of the Territorial Forces and their lack of training, mentioning in this connection that the average training of the territorial infantry of the West Riding division, with which he had been associated, 18 hours in the year and 11 days in camp, and that many of the men had never fired a round on an outdoor range, would it be fair or simply murder to ask them to protect our shores in the case of invasion by a foreign foe?

The National Service League was a British pressure group founded in February 1902 to campaign for the introduction of compulsory military training in Great Britain, in order to protect the country against invasion, particularly from Germany. The League advocated the introduction of four years of compulsory military training for men aged between eighteen and thirty, for the purpose of home defence. Britain was one of the few western states not to have a mass conscript army, and compulsory military service was not a popular idea in the country. For many, the idea aroused the long-standing antipathy toward standing armies and smacked of continental-style militarism. To reflect public opinion, the League's proposal was for a part-time force for home defence only, with conscripts undergoing two months' training under canvas, followed by three annual training camps.

The League was founded on 26 February 1902 at the instigation of Conservative politician Lord Newton, with the fourth Duke of Wellington as its first president. Initially the League was one pressure group among many, and made little impression. By October 1904, it had only 1,725 members with 2,000 in 1905. However, in November 1905 Field Marshal Lord Roberts agreed to become the League's president, becoming its figurehead and leading spokesman. This helped transform the League into a significant force in British public life. It accordingly grew in size, with a membership of 21,500 in December 1908, with a further 30,000 'adherents'. The circulation of the League's journal, The Nation in Arms, grew to 17,500. By 1910 the League had 60,000 members. The League's Annual Reports of 1908 and 1913 commented that the number of local branches in the country were 33 and 45 respectively. The Annual Report of 1913 stated that the 'total of subscribers', which included members and associates, was 96,526 and the 'number of adherents' was 163,746. Well known members included Field Marshal Lord Wolseley and Rudyard Kipling.

Fear of a possible German invasion of Britain, coupled with the belief that only the Army and not the Navy could stop an invasion underlaid many of the League's proposals, and were emphasised by Lord Roberts in a series of speeches that received extensive coverage. At a broader level, conscription of the kind envisaged was seen as a way to encourage national regeneration and counter moral decadence and physical deterioration.

While the League tried to appeal to those of all and no political allegiances, in practice most of its support came from Conservative supporters, including peers and MPs, although compulsory military service was never Conservative policy. While Churchill and Lloyd George (both Liberal Cabinet Ministers) sometimes expressed private support for conscription, the official view of ministers was that compulsory training was not neither militarily necessary nor acceptable to the electorate.

The League did not finally succeed in persuading Parliament of the need for conscription, and its campaign was suspended at the outbreak of the First World War. Its pre-war campaign did however help contribute to the climate of opinion that finally accepted conscription in 1916. The League was formally wound up in March 1921, with its remaining funds, about £10,000, donated to the Boy Scouts Association.

In 1911, John was still bank manager at Barclays Bank living in Thirsk with his sister, Jane.

The first annual meeting of the Thirsk and District Constitutional Club was held on 31 March 1911 in the public rooms. Special interest was taken in the meeting owing to the fact that with the increased membership of the club the committee find that the present premises in Castlegate are inadequate for its requirements. At the annual meeting last night Major Bell presided over a large attendance. Mr J T Farndale was re elected treasurer.

There was an offer to Let, 10, The Crescent, situate enclosed grounds, lawn, dining, drawing and breakfast rooms, small library, 3 bedrooms, bathroom etc, kitchen garden; rent moderate. Apply John T Farndale, Thirsk.

The Rev Arthur Wigston Howard MA, of 12 Mount Hermon Rd, Torquay, curate successively of Saint Mark, Kennington and vicar of Pickhill, Thirsk, Yorkshire, died on 4 October 1912 and left estate of the gross value of £6,507 of which £3,593 is net personalty. By his Will dated 30th September 1907 with a codicil of the 31st July 1911, the testator left various legacies including 19 Guineas to John Farndale, of Barclays Bank, first, in recognition of his many kindnesses to the testator.

In July 1913 a large and fashionable company were present yesterday at the opening of the Thirsk and District Constitutional Club’s Empire Bazaar, which is being held for three days at the new Town Hall, Thirsk, in aid of furnishing and equipment of the new Constitutional Club premises. The opening ceremony was performed by the Marchioness of Londonderry, under the chairman who was supported by Mr J T Farndale. Lady Londonderry expressed her very deep interest in everything that concerned the North Riding, and particularly in that division, and it was with great pleasure that she attended to open the bazaar. Turning to political affairs, her Ladyship said such the country had arrived at a very serious juncture in its history. The two great questions at present were the Bill for the robbery of the Church in Wales and the question of splitting up the Empire by the endeavour to establish a separate parliament in Dublin.

The Welsh Church Act 1914 was an Act of Parliament under which the Church of England was separated and disestablished in Wales and Monmouthshire, leading to the creation of the Church in Wales. The Act had long been demanded by the Nonconformist community in Wales, which composed the majority of the population and which resented paying taxes to the Church of England. It was sponsored by the Liberal Party, a stronghold of the Nonconformists, and opposed by the Conservative Party, a stronghold of the Anglicans.

There is no more popular social event in Richmond than the charity dances organised by Mr J T Farndale. This year the promoters were fortunate in having the new Town Hall at their disposal and thus enjoying every convenience. In January 1914 everything passed off splendidly, and on Tuesday nearly 100 children assembled, and had a fine time.

With the occurrence of each new year, the charity dances at Thirsk form an attractive item among the New Year's events. They owe their origin and also their continuance to the kindly efforts of Mr J T Farndale, who is ever ready to help a good cause. As on previous occasions, two nights are occupied, the first being for children, and the second for adults. The attendance was the best there has ever been, nearly a hundred children taking part in the dances, the music for which was supplied by Mr J W Parker. The beautiful decorations of the hall, and the large company of happy, joyous children, tastefully attired, made a very pretty sight. Last night seemed equally successful and the arrangements were well carried out.

A meeting for the formation of a Women's Unionist Association for Thirsk and district was held in the Town Hall, Thirsk in February 1914, Major Bell presided. On the motion of Mr Farndale, seconded by Major Bell, it was decided to form a Women's Unionist Association for Thirsk and district. Lady Payne Gallwey was elected president. It was decided to write other ladies asking them to take office in this capacity including to Miss Farndale.

A monster demonstration against the Home Rule Bill was held in April 1914. Long before the hour of commencing the Town Hall was packed to overflowing. Patriotic songs were sung in the interval of waiting. Major R Bell was the chairman, and among those present were Mr and Miss Farndale. Lord Helmsley, in expressing his regret, said that he had to be in London because of the division on the Home Rule Bill. He hopes the meeting would be a great success, and would agree “in condemning the Government which, for party purposes and for purely party exigencies, had not scrupled to bring our country face to face with the gravest dangers and disasters. Message from Sir Edward. Sir Edward Carson wrote wishing a successful meeting and added: “It is everyday becoming more clear that the Government do not intend to give the people the opportunity of expressing their opinion on the Home Rule Bill either by General Election or referendum. The arguments put forward by Ministers to justify their refusal to consult the people deceive nobody.

The Government of Ireland Act 1914, also known as the Home Rule Act, and before enactment as the Third Home Rule Bill, was an Act passed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom intended to provide home rule or self-government within the United Kingdom for Ireland. It was the third such bill introduced by a Liberal government during a 28 year period in response to agitation for Irish Home Rule. The Act was the first law ever approved by the Parliament of the United Kingdom that provided for a devolved government in any part of the UK rather than colonial territories. However, the implementation of both it and the equally controversial Welsh Church Act 1914 was formally postponed for a minimum of twelve months with the beginning of the First World War. The continuation of the war beyond 1915 and subsequent developments in Ireland resulted in further postponements, meaning that the Act never became effective; it was finally superseded by a fourth home rule bill, enacted as the Government of Ireland Act 1920, which partitioned Ireland, creating Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland, both intended to have Home Rule.

In May 1914 the first annual meeting of the Thirsk Golf Club was held in the Assembly Rooms on Wednesday evening, Sir R F Payne Gallwey presiding. Rules were adopted and the officers elected included Treasurer, Mr J T Farndale.

In May 1915 in a letter received by Mr J T Farndale, of Thirsk, the Rev Father Ryan, an army chaplain, who previous to the war was in charge of All Saints, Thirsk, expresses thanks that after several narrow escapes he is still alive. On one occasion, he mentions, he was in the upper storey of a house, and Lieutenant Colonel Geddis was in the lower storey, when a German shell struck the building, killing the Colonel, but he escaped.

In the grounds of Thirsk Hall yesterday a garden fete was held in aid of the funds of the Thirsk Nursing Association in July 1915. Mrs E R Turton, wife of Mr E R Turton, member for the Thirsk and Malton Division, who was introduced by Mr J T Farndale, performed the opening ceremony.

The annual golf meeting was held in July 1915, Mr R Bell presiding. The balance sheet showed total receipts of £203 9s 10d, and expenditure of £163 17s 8d, leaving a balance on the first year’s work of £39 12s 2d. Mr J T Farndale said that the rent of £38 10s was for the year ending April 30 last.

Mr J T Farndale, treasurer and secretary of the Thirsk Branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, has just remitted the sum of £50 to headquarters, this being the amount of subscriptions and donations for 1915 collected by Lady Frankland Payne Gallwey, of Thirkleby Park. In June 1916 the sum of £158 has been remitted by J T Farndale, Thirsk treasurer and secretary of the Thirsk Branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, this being the amount of subscriptions and donations for 1916 collected by Lady Frankland Payne Gallwey, of Thirkleby Park.

A financial document was prepared by John Farndale Treasurer at Thirsk Golf Club with a Certified Balance Sheet dated 30 April 1916.

He became a Commissioner of the Peace, a magistrate, and justice of the peace, for North Riding in September 1916. On the recommendation of Sir Hugh Bell, Bart, H M Lieutenant for the North Riding, on the advice of his Advisory Committee, the Lord Chancellor has added the names of the following gentlemen to the Commission of the Peace for the North Riding, John Thomas Farndale, Barclays Bank, Thirsk.

Hearty congratulations are extended to Mr J T Farndale, manager of Messrs Barclays Bank, Thirsk, upon his appointment as a Justice of the Peace. Mr Farndale, who is a native of Whitby, and a frequent visitor amongst us, joined the staff of the North Eastern Branch, Middlesbrough, in 1873, and after an apprenticeship of seven years he left, and joined the staff of the Head Office at York of the old York Union Bank, which was amalgamated with Messrs Barclay and Company, Limited in 1892. He left York on November 15th, 1880 (in fact this should be 1890), to take up the managership of the Thirsk branch. He is a director of A C Bamlet Limited, agricultural engineers, Thirsk, and he was one of the founders, and director of, the Thirsk Town Hall and Constitutional Club Buildings Company Limited.

In about 1821 John and his sister, Jane moved to Keddholme Villa, 57 East Parade, Harrogate, after he had retired as a bank manager.

In April 1922 there was an excellent attendance on Friday afternoon at the annual meeting of the Harrogate Habitation of the Primrose League, which took place at the Conservative Club. Those present included Major the Honourable Edward Wood, Under Secretary for the Colonies and MP for the Ripon Division; Lady Dorothy Wood, Admiral Sir Francis Bridgeman and Lady bridgeman, Mr J T Farndale, Deputy Ruling Councillor, who presided.

The Primrose League is an organisation for spreading Conservative ideas. It was founded in 1883. Its declared aims from 1979 were: To Uphold and support God, Queen, and Country, and the Conservative cause; To provide an effective voice to represent the interests of our members and to bring the experience of the Leaders to bear on the conduct of public affairs for the common good; To encourage and help our members to improve their professional competence as leaders; To fight for free enterprise. Sir Winston Churchill, in his book on his father, Lord Randolph Churchill published in 1906, wrote that, at that time, the Primrose League had one million paid up members determined to promote the cause of Toryism.

In May 1922, Mr J T Farndale presided at the annual meeting of the NW Yorks branch of the NSPCC held at Harrogate yesterday, when it was stated that a deficit of more than £9 had been turned into a credit balance of £156 mainly through increased subscriptions and a flag day at Harrogate which realised £117.

In June 1922 at the invitation of Lady Bridgman, Ruling Councillor of the St Wilfrid Habitation of the Primrose League, upwards of 150 members of the Harrogate Habitation spent an interesting afternoon and evening on Saturday. A plea for more interest in the junior branches of the League was made and the vote was seconded by Mr J T Farndale.

John Thomas Farndale, died aged 75, on 21 March 1930 in Harrogate. Farndale, March 21 (suddenly), at 57, East Parade, Harrogate, John Thomas Farndale (late Manager, Barclays Bank, Thirsk), Funeral, Harlow Hill, Harrogate, at 2.30 pm on Monday March 24.

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The webpage of John Thomas Farndale includes a chronology and research notes.