Arnold Rowntree

Arnold Rowntree was Joseph’s nephew and invited by him to join the cocoa and chocolate business in 1891. He was a director of Rowntree and Co. from 1891 to 1941. Arnold led a full life, leading the Rowntree family interest in newspapers and becoming a trustee of all three Rowntree trusts. Like other family members he was involved in education, teaching at the Leeman Road adult school and, for some time before his marriage, living in the area to better understand the men’s background and interests. He was MP for York from 1910 to 1918 and championed the cause of conscientious objectors during the First World War, enduring fierce local criticism. His endeavours to create opportunities for service for young male Friends led to the establishment of the Friends’ Ambulance Unit. He was a keen walker, horse-rider and cricketer, having inherited the family love of the outdoors which he passed on to his son, Michael. He was also chair of the Allotments Movement until his death.

Image: From originals held at the Borthwick Institute for Archives.