Henry Enfield Dowson was born November 23rd, 1837 and died August 20th 1925. He became the minister of Hyde Chapel in 1867 and served for 51 years.
He gave his name to Dowson Road as well as other places in the town.
So revered and respected was he that he lies buried not in the graveyard but inside the chapel.
His bust can be seen on Hyde Daily Photo.
Rev. HENRY ENFIELD DOWSON, B.A., 1867-1925
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Mr.Dowson's commanding personality, his strenuous labours in every branch of public life, his wonderful powers oratory, and his kindness and tact, won the respect and honour of all denominations in Hyde. He devoted much time to the cause of education, took an active part in the management of three British Schools in the town as well as in the Gee Cross schools, and when the nondenominational schools were taken over by the Town Council, he generously paid off the entire debts over hanging some of these schools. His educational work included many years active membership of the Hyde Public Library committee. For over 40 years he was a leader of the Liberal party, figuring prominently in political battles, and it specks much of his character when it cn be said that he never lost the friendship of a single political opponent. Local sport in all its branches found in him a staunch friend and supporter, and in recognition of this, he was asked to preform the ceremony of opening the Public Baths' extension on October 18th, 1913; he also had the honour of opening the Maternity and Child Welfare Centre on May 6th, 1924. His public services were rewarded on May 10th, 1917, when he was presented with the Honorary Freedom of the borough. Mr Dowson had a true helpmate in Mrs. Dowson, and they laboured together in the interests of child life and public health in Hyde. Mrs. Dowson died in 1921, Mr Dowson, passed away on August 20th, 1925, at the age of 87 years, having been pastor at Hyde Chapel over 58 years.
In his ministry at Hyde Chapel Mr. Dowson was assisted from 1872 to 1887 by the Rev. Frederick Ashton, M.A. After voluntary resigning a portion of his salary in order that the financial position of the chapel could be improved, Mr. Dowson, on the appointment of the Rev A. R. Andreae as his co-pastor, persuaded the congregation to allow him to carry on his ministry without any stipend, and for the last 21 years of his life he faithfully discharged the duties of the position on these unusual terms. After Mr. Andreae's departure in 1910, Mr. Dowson had as successive co-pastors the Revs. E.H. Pickering, and F. Heming Vaughan.
we should all be so lucky to receive such a plaque!
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