John Holberton Pugin Welby MA [1880 - 1958]
This article brings together much of what is already on site about Vicar Welby and provides further information –especially about his family.
I have no doubt that there are many current residents of Ushaw Moor and ex residents who were baptized by and perhaps married by Vicar Welby. He was charismatic, gentle and perceptive all rolled into one. By the time that he began his ministry at Ushaw Moor in 1923 he was 43 years old. I have no doubt that he had already seen and understood much of how the world worked and it would thus have enhanced his ministry.
Here is a quote from Brian McLoughlin taken from elsewhere on this site “I well remember Vicar Welby when I was a boy living in Ushaw Moor. I understand that Vicar Welby was a very highly educated man and he gave 35 years of his life looking after the spiritual needs of his flock at Ushaw Moor. I can remember attending weddings and funerals at St. Lukes Church on the Esh Winning road where he officiated at the ceremonies. He lived with his family at the Vicarage at the top of Ladysmith Terrace. I cannot remember Vicar Welby ever having any sort of transport to get around the village as he always appeared to be walking when I remember him. He was well known and highly respected in the village and always had a good word and a smile for us kids. Whether you were Catholic or Protestant Vicar Welby always spoke to everyone. He was the type of good character that is sadly lacking in this world of the present. Vicar Welby is also mentioned in the book by Frank Proctor who emigrated to Canada from Ushaw Moor in the 20s, he made a great impression on the then young Frank Proctor."Brian McLoughlin
I recall that the pupils of Ushaw Moor County school were all lined up against the school fence to show respect for Vicar Welby when his funeral cortege passed by.
Vicar Welby was born in Tollerton, Nottinghamshire and he married Jennie Brown [1896-1972]. They had a son Peter Edin Brown Welby. I am not sure whether Peter was an only child.
Vicar Welby’s father was Abraham Adlard Welby [he was born in Uttoxeter, became rector of Tollerton and died in 1923]. His mother was Bertha Sobranoa - she was born in India and died in 1928 at the age of 82.
Vicar Welby’s grandfather, Aldard Welby, was born in Lincolnshire, became a solicitor, married Clara Flint and died before the turn of the 19th century when well into his 80s.
Vicar Welby had at least three brothers and two sisters. One of his brothers was Richard Martin Welby –Richard’s wife was Euphemia Welby [1891-1987]. I understand that she gave distinguished service during WW2 being Supt. of the Women’s Royal Naval Service [WRNS] from June 1939. She became a CBE on 01/01/1944.
Best regards W Bell
