York Celebrates Joseph Rowntree Centenary After 100 Years

Joseph Rowntree died 100 years ago, on February 24, 1925. He owned Rowntree’s and was a businessman known for his philanthropy. York held three days of events to honor him.

The Rowntree Society aims to share Rowntree family and company history. Nick Smith, who runs the Society, seeks to mark Joseph’s death anniversary.

Smith wants to spread awareness about Rowntree and highlight his importance to York. He believes Rowntree’s actions still matter today, holding national and worldwide relevance. “We need to remember him,” Smith says.

Rowntree took over his family business in 1883 after his brother Henry died. Rowntree’s became famous worldwide, producing Fruit Pastilles, KitKat, and Smarties. Over 7,000 people worked there in York.

Smith says people respected Joseph Rowntree, who greatly impacted many lives. He was an employer who helped people and built New Earswick housing. Joseph also campaigned to better people’s lives.

People liked Joseph Rowntree as a person, finding him approachable. His death caused deep sadness in York and was a very significant moment. Joseph Rowntree’s family still impacts lives now.

Smith wonders what York would be like without them. It’s difficult to separate them from York’s past because the Rowntrees influenced institutions they started or helped, though these are not always obvious.

His death stopped the city of York, and the funeral included five different events. Many showed up to pay their respects; The Rowntree Society estimates that three to five percent of York joined.

Flags flew at half-mast during these events. Over 50 groups sent representatives to “Remembering Rowntree,” an event The Rowntree Society held March 1 at Friargate Quaker Meeting House.

The event is currently sold out, but people can join a waiting list. Groups from York shared remarks and read quotes from the 1925 funeral, reflecting similar groups today.