Mexborough and Swinton Times, February 6, 1897
Service of Song at Conisborough
The Primitive Methodist trustees are making an extra effort to reduce the debt on this chapel caused by the former renovation which took place some little time ago, and have decided to give a series of services of song on Saturday nights, the first of which took place on Saturday last, when the friends from Roman Terrace primitive Methodist Chapel gave the popular service of song entitled, “A rough diamond – Peter McKenzie.”
Captain Turner of Rotherham had been secured as chairman and he gave the right keynote to the meeting, remarking that he was willing to help any good work forward whether religious or philanthrophic. He took a deep interest in hospital and infirmary work, and ought to have been present at a meeting that night on behalf of their local infirmary, but had apologised for his absence, and promised to perform any duty they selected him for so that he might be present to help us Conisborough friends.
He also had great sympathy with young children and old age, as he looked upon both as being in need of help and sympathy than those in their prime. The object that had brought them together was a very good one. He had once a pleasure of hearing the late Peter McKenzie lecture on “Job,” when he used an expression he “the speaker” had never forgetting to the effect that the hedge around Job was such a one that “the little devils could not get through it and the big ones could not get over the top.”
Mr J. Crossley, of Mexborough, gave the connective readings, and his full, clear voice was all that could be desired, and the musical selections were rendered in a very creditable manner, showing careful training by their conductors Mr J. Lawson.
As to the substance of the connective reading, they prove very instructive and amusing. The latter partner meeting some of the witticisms of Peter McKenzie. Being well punctuated by loud applause, and all throughout a deep interest was shown in the life and savings of this remarkable Wesleyan preacher.
At the conclusion a vote of thanks was passed to the Chairman, reader, and musicians. On the proposition of the rev. T. J. Gladwin, seconded by Mr Cordy of Denaby Main, and suitably replied to.
A coffee supper was held at the close and was well patronised.
About £5 was realised, which is considered very satisfactory.