The rise and rise of Kelley & Sons
Part one DEATH OF MR. FAIRFAX KELLEY, OF HECKMONDWIKE Mr. Fairfax Kelley, the founder of the well-known firm of Fairfax Kelley and Sons, carpet and woollen manufacturers and yarn spinners, Heckmondwike, died at his residence, Crystal Grove, Millbridge, Liversedge, on Friday, at the ripe age of 79 years. The funeral took place at the Heckmondwike Cemetery on Tuesday. About 18 months ago, in consequence of failing health, he went to Harrogate, hoping that the change might work an improvement, but while worshipping at one of the Non-conformist chapels he had an apoplectic seizure, and a second attack following immediately, proved the commencement of a period in which he was quite an invalid, and which terminated as above stated. Practically Mr. Kelley had been out of business about two years, and during that time the management of the firm’s affairs devolved upon his sons, Messrs. George, John, and Rawson Kelley. His career had been a somwhat remarkable one, and is a striking example...