In our archive we have a box of documents related to the building of the cliff lift here in Whitby. It is the complete Whitby U.D.C file and contains estimates, invoices, correspondence, reports and memos. A very comprehensive and interesting record of a major (and now somewhat controversial) project.
However, we also have a very personal record of this notable feat of engineering in an album presented to the museum by U.D.C Foreman Hubert Waters.
“A man who has played a part in changing the face of Whitby…”
He served the town for 42 years and the album also includes photos of work on New Quay in 1926/27, Boyes Staith in 1928, the public tennis courts, the fire station, and many other projects.
Pages from the photo album
John Seward, Engineer and Surveyor to Whitby U.D.C was obviously held in high regard by his colleagues as illustrated by the many sincere tributes when he retired in 1958. He it was who designed the lift, based on those used on the London Underground. Also in the archive is a paper he presented to The Institution of Municipal and County Engineers, which was published in their journal dated 3rd February 1931, and for which he was awarded a Bronze Medal.
Cliff Lift drawing – J.R.Seward, Engineer & Surveyor
A newspaper clipping in the album describes him as the designer of “Whitby’s biggest money spinner”, noting that in 1955 the lift had made a profit of £770.
If you are interested in finding out more about John Seward, Hubert Waters and the cliff lift, would like to see the albums, or read the official U.D.C. documents, contact us at [email protected] to make an appointment.
By Lynn Hilton (volunteer) and Claire Marris (Archive Development Officer)
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