Seth Harry MPS, Mayor 1888 SETH Harry was one of the most hardworking men to make a contribution to Okehampton. He started his business life here as a chemist and grocer etc at No 8 Fore Street, Okehampton, which, with a loyal staff he developed into one of the largest stores in the area with its busy country rounds. He soon undertook the post of Registrar of Marriages for Okehampton and district, which he maintained for many years. He loved Dartmoor and spent many hours walking on it, with a particular interest in water supply. He became involved in many of the civic, business, social and charitable organisations within the borough. It is rare indeed that a trader receives from his fellow townsfolk a public recognition of his merit and civic service, but Seth Harry was so honoured in November 1923, when he was presented, at a specially convened public meeting, with a beautifully designed framed illuminated address, the artistic work of Messrs W J Southwood and Co of Exeter. The address bore the borough arms and views of the parish church and of Fore Street, together with the names of all the subscribers. The wording of the address was as follows: ?We, the undersigned, connected with the business life of the Borough of Okehampton, offer you our hearty congratulations on your completing fifty years of residence among us. ?We desire to place on record our great appreciation ofthe ability, energy and integrity which you have shown in the offices of mayor, alderman, councillor, charity trustee and churchwarden, all of which have been filled by you with a credit to yourself and advantage to the community. ?We also desire to place on record the high estimation in which you are held by your fellow tradesmen for the enterprise, honesty and unfailing courtesy which you have displayed in all your business dealings. ?We wish you continued health and prosperity and express the hope that you will be spared to spend many happy years in our ancient borough which you have so worthily served.? The terms of this address are certainly eulogistic, but they did not go beyond the genuine feelings of those who had been associated with Mr Harry in many ways and over many years. The ex-mayor, James Fugler, presided at this well attended meeting, and it is indeed fortunate that his speech in tribute has been traced and preserved and is repeated below: The ex-mayor (Mr James Fugler) presided and said he was delighted to see such a large attendance. They were met to honour one of the leading traders of the town, who settled in Okehampton and married an Okehampton lady and had just concluded 50 years of active business life. He was well known to them all and the address fittingly set forth what he had done for the town. In spite of pressing business claims Mr Seth Harry?s record of public life was one of which any man might be proud. Mr Harry was a member of the old local Board of Okehampton from 1880 to 1885, member of the Old Corporation from 1881 to 1885, Charity Trustee from 1878, when the body was formed, and has remained an elected member ever since up to the present time without a break. He became a town councillor in 1885 and was elected Alderman 1885 to 1891, councillor for one year 1892, re-elected councillor 1894 to 1897, second term as Alderman 1897 to 1903, Mayor of the borough from 1888, churchwarden from 1881 to 1886 and from 1910 to 1920, sidesman for many years. He was made one of the Trustees of the Holditch Charities from 1921, when formed, to the presnt time. He is Registrar of Marriages and chairman of the Okehampton Mutual Plate Glass Insurance Company. This record of work, Mr James Fugler continued, showed how well Mr Harry had served the town. There was one matter of sincere regret to them all and that was the serious illness of Mrs Harry. He was sure Mr Harry had their prayers and sincere wishes for her recovery. Sadly, Mrs Harry died soon after this, but Seth was able to continue his good work. By this time, Seth Harry had already converted his Grocery, Provision, Wine and Spirit Company into a prime company as from July 1, 1915. After 40 years? continuous application and difficulties in obtaining supplies during the war, this part of the business carried on under under the name of Seth Harry Ltd, trading as ?The Central Supply Stores, Okehampton?, with brothers Thomas and Arthur Lee taking over control and management of the store. The chemist?s business was still retained by himself and continued to receive his personal attention at all times. Mr Seth Harry contributed much in his lifetime and perhaps his record is indicative of the work that many fellow mayors of Okehampton gave to this ancient borough. Hilary and Mike Wreford
