Weaste Cemetery

Biographies of people buried between 1880 & 89

John Slaughter (1852 - 1883)


BURIED AT WEASTE CEMETERY ©

FIREMAN JOHN SLAUGHTER (1852 – 1883)

John Slaughter was a member of Salford Fire Brigade, who died suddenly at the age of only 31 years.

 

The Salford Reporter of 28th July 1883 records "Funeral of a Salford Fireman. Yesterday afternoon, (Friday 27th July 1883), a most impressive funeral took place at the Borough Cemetery, when the remains of John Slaughter, a member of the police fire brigade were conveyed to their last resting place. Slaughter, who was only 32 years of age, died on Tuesday at the headquarters of the brigade in Ford Street Salford, where from the necessities of his position, his home was situated. He leaves a wife and four young children to lament his untimely decease". (John had married Ann Howarth at St.John's Church, Manchester in 1872).

 

On and off, John Slaughter had been connected with the fire service for about 10 years and during this period of service his conduct was such as to command the entire confidence of his superiors, and likewise the good opinion of those he came in contact with in the execution of his duties. On two occasions Fireman Slaughter was badly crushed by a horse and was twice severely kicked. About two years prior to his death, he was violently thrown from his seat on the fire engine and so serious were his injuries that for several days his life was in imminent danger. However, after some time spent at Salford Royal Hospital and recuperating, he was able to resume his duty.

 

The cortege started from Fire Brigade Headquarters at 1 o'clock, lead by the Salford Police Band. John's coffin was covered with 2 Union Jacks and laid on a fire engine drawn by his two favourite horses. His helmet and uniform were placed beside the coffin. A fire engine from the Manchester Fire Brigade came next, followed by Superintendent Wills, many colleagues in uniform and representatives from adjoining boroughs.
 

Two mourning coaches occupied by relatives brought up the rear. The procession attracted great attention along the route. At the cemetery, a short service was conducted by Rev Knox and held in the presence of a considerable number of spectators. John was interred in a common grave in the Dissenters portion of the cemetery.