William Bryham of Ince

William Bryham (c.1818 – 1893) was a significant figure in the industrial, civic, and social life of Ince-in-Makerfield during the Victorian period. He was particularly influential in the local coal industry and was widely respected for his public service and philanthropy. 

Bryham was regarded as one of the leading mining engineers in Lancashire. He served as Managing Director of Rosebridge Colliery at Ince and was also manager for the mining firm Messrs. Case & Morris. 

His professional standing brought him into wider civic life, and by 1881, he had been appointed a magistrate.

From 1889, he was a member of the Wigan Board of Guardians representing the Ince-in-Makerfield district. He also played an important role in the establishment of the Ince Water Supply, providing evidence alongside other prominent industrialists, including Thomas Knowles.

He was deeply involved in the religious and community life of Ince, particularly at Christ Church, Ince, where he served continuously as churchwarden from the church’s opening until his death. His commitment is commemorated by a west window depicting the four Gospel writers, installed in his memory. Bryham was closely associated with the wider parish life of the town and supported the social and charitable activities that underpinned Victorian community life.

William Bryham lived at Ince Hall, where he died in 1893.

He was the son of Richard Bryham and Mary Chamberlain. His father was convicted in the early nineteenth century and sentenced to seven years’ penal transportation, a common punishment of the period. As the term of transportation was nearing completion, William raised the necessary funds for his father’s return journey to England and placed the money to his credit. However, the hoped-for family reunion did not take place. Only days before embarkation, Richard was taken ill and died shortly afterwards.

Despite this difficult family history, William achieved considerable social mobility and professional success. He married Ellen Gobbin, and together they had four children, leaving a lasting legacy in the industrial and civic history of Ince-in-Makerfield.

Although there are no images of William included below are images of Rosebridge Colliery at the time when William would have been involved.

Loading Coal

Engine Winder