The Story of Christopher Pickering

Kit was born on 9th November 1842, the son of a tailor. Aged 10 he worked in a fish curing house for 5 pence per week for two years, then transferred to herring curing. Aged 23 he started his own business buying fish at the pier and selling it from a barrow. He made enough money to buy a fishing ‘smack’ and built up a fishing fleet, eventually exchanging it for four steam trawlers. He became chairman and director of many fishing related companies. In Hull he donated money to churches, alms houses and children’s homes, and gave land and money for Pickering Park and Museum.

In 1889/90 he moved from 114 Coltman Street to Hornsea, where he made similar donations. In 1910 he was granted the freedom of the city of Kingston upon Hull. He died in Hornsea in 1920. In addition to personal bequests, he left money to many local charities. It was said that no man took a greater or more worthy part in developing the Hull fishing industry. He was shrewd, sturdy and independent - a true Yorkshireman who was proud to have done so much to serve his city.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

15.00

Location & directions

Wrecking Ball Arts and music, 15 Whitefriargate, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU1 2ER

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

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