James Parrott (1803-1897)
See James Parrott for his business
1891 Living at 8 Rawcliffe Street, Layton with Warbreck, Blackpool: James Parrott (age 89 born East End, London), Steam and Hydraulic Engineer - Employer - Widower. One visitor. One servant.[1]
The following is taken from Blackpool's South Shore Holy Trinity Church website.[2]
James Parrott, who laid the foundation stone, was born in London but moved to Manchester to an engineering career. His health was not good so he frequently visited Blackpool. The Preston and Wyre Railway opened in 1840 with a line to Blackpool and, because of his health, James Parrott was given a free ticket for life. However, he lived to 94 and living in Blackpool, though working in Manchester, he was known as the Great Old Man of Blackpool.
He lived in Rawcliffe Street for fifty years and was active in public life. He served on the building committee for the church, giving about £200 towards the £14,000 cost and also presenting a clock for the tower, setting up a trust to keep it in good repair. He bought land for the building between Lytham Road and the Promenade and helped St. Pauls, Blackpool Hospital and Marton Institute.
He died on 5th. February 1897, aged 94.