Harold Ogden

Oldham Tribunal 6 July 1916
Reported Oldham Chronicle 8 July 1916

At the Oldham Tribunal on Thursday several more cases of conscientious objectors were heard ...

… Harold Ogden (30), 5, Green lane, Oldham, is a master baker and confectioner. he wrote he was an anti-militarist, and he objected to service on business grounds. He was in a starred and reserved trade, and the business was entirely dependent on his supervision. He had a wife and three children dependent upon him.

The man came into the room smoking and with his cap on. Councillor Schofield suggested that it would be better if he stopped smoking and showed some respect to the Tribunal.
Ogden replied that he did not know he was doing anything wrong. He saw members of the Tribunal smoking.
Councillor Schofield (with heat): But have some respect man.
Whilst Ogden was being questioned it was noticed that his left hand was deformed and Captain Almond said he would not be taken.

Councillor Schofield : I have just been reading a case where a man with one arm came holding up his conscience when he knew he would be turned down.
Ogden: But I see in the paper -
Councillor Schofield : Never mind about the papers. You should know what is right between man and man. It is shameful to come here to parade your conscience.
Ogden: I don't do. I did not want to be disrespectful.

Granted on grounds of physical disability. The conscience claim was disallowed.
Councillor Schofield : It is shameful coming and taking up the Tribunal's time like this.

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Born Oldham, 23 September 1886
Died Brighton, 11 May 1957

1911 census
349 Manchester Road, Oldham
with wife Eva and daughter Marian (b 1910)
Occ: Baker and confectioner

1939 register :
16 Withdean Court Avenue,
with wife Eva and son Frank (b 1913)
Occ: Bakery salesman

Contributed by Dorothy Bintley