Richard Smethurst (c1825-1879)
Richard Smethurst (c1825-1879) of R. Smethhurst and Co
1871 Residing at Ellerbeck hall, Chorley: Richard Smethurst (age 46 born Chorley), Cotton Spinner and Manufacturer employing 1,200 hands. With his wife Emily J. Smethhurst (age 41) and daughter Emily M. M. Smethurst (age 12). Thirteen servants.[1]
1879 April 28th. 'On Monday afternoon. Mr Richard Smethurst, of Ellerbeck, Chorley, a former high sheriff of Lancashire, and head of a well-known firm of cotton manufactures, died very suddenly at the mill. He was found dead in his office. A few days since his only daughter married a son of Mr Leeman, M.P. '[2]
1879 Will. Died, late of Ellerbeck near Chorley. Will proven by Emily Jane Smethurst, widow; Thomas Holy Holdsworth of Sandal Hall; and Augustus William Smethurst of Rookwood, Chorley (Brother).