Joseph and Sarah Rowntree

Joseph’s parents, Joseph Senior and Sarah, were Quakers and their social lives – and those of their five children – were conducted within the Society of Friends. Home life included daily scripture study. Joseph and Sarah both undertook useful work which included provision of educational opportunities for boys and adults; measures to address insanitary housing and sewage disposal; and visiting the poor. In later life they were both devoted more time to Quaker interests and the Society of Friends. Their influence was to have a profound effect on Joseph’s actions throughout his life and upon his social vision.

Image from originals held at the Borthwick Institute for Archives.