John Henry Welton

Born in Hull in 1898 to locomotive driver John Welton and his wife Harriet Blanchard, John Henry was the youngest of six siblings. In 1912, at just fourteen years old, he applied for a position at Tranby House as footman. As a tall young man of perfect proportion for the role, he was accepted into service with the Barkworth family.

MILITARY SERVICE AND ADVANCEMENT

When the First World War began, John Henry enlisted. Army records confirm he served but became unwell during his service and was subsequently discharged. He resumed his role at Tranby House and, recognising his dedication and capability, the family promoted him to butler before 1921. John held this prestigious position for nearly two decades until 1940, when he joined the war effort during the Second World War. Algernon Barkworth also contributed to the war effort, serving as a special constable.

DEVOTED BUTLER AND CONFIDANT

For nearly thirty years, John Henry Welton was more than simply Algernon Barkworth's butler—he was his confidant and the keeper of Tranby House's secrets. The depth of their relationship transcended the typical master-servant dynamic of the era. John managed the household with discretion and unwavering loyalty, maintaining the elegant world of Tranby House whilst safeguarding the private matters entrusted to him.

FAMILY LIFE

In 1923, John married Hilda Wood. Together they had two daughters: Betty and Esme. Despite the demands of his position at Tranby House, John maintained a devoted family life, balancing his professional responsibilities with his role as husband and father.

REMEMBERED IN THE WILL

Algernon Barkworth's will demonstrates the regard in which he held his faithful butler. The bequest reads: "To my butler John Henry Welton, who was at one time in service as my butler, the sum of fifty pounds"—this gift coming some four years after John had left Tranby House, a testament to the lasting bond between the two men.

THE COLLECTION'S LEGACY

John Henry outlived both his daughter Esme and his wife Hilda, passing away peacefully in 1975. With him went the stories and secrets of Tranby House—the whispered conversations, the daily rituals, the private moments he had witnessed over decades of devoted service. However, he left behind a few precious items that now form the heart of the Barkworth-Welton Collection.

Among these treasures is his prized Kienzle clock, given to him by Algernon as a parting gift—a symbol of their enduring connection. Also preserved is the most well-known post-Titanic portrait of Algernon Barkworth, along with several photographs from John's time at Tranby House. These artefacts, carefully maintained through generations, offer a rare glimpse into the intertwined lives of a Titanic survivor and the man who served him faithfully.

Justin, the collection holder, is the son of Esme's daughter Hazel—John Henry Welton's great-grandson. Through this direct family line, the stories, photographs, and treasures of Tranby House have been preserved, ensuring that John Henry's loyalty and Algernon's secret remain protected, even as they are finally shared with the world. 

Provenance: John Henry Welton's personal collection

Tranby House Staff Photograph, possibly from the 1930s. All employees at Tranby House. John Henry Welton is positioned bottom right. Olive Thornley is holding Algernons pet dog. Walter Garner, Algernon's chauffer is at the back right. Algernon's Page - Ronald Pickard is bottom left. It was during the family holidays that the family went away, with Miss Roper leaving the staff to ensure the house and estate were running smoothly. 

Provenance: John Henry Welton's personal collection

It was well known that Algernon, following on from the trauma of the Titanic developed a love for animals, he kept many at Tranby House, including Donkeys and Chickens which he used to breed and advertise for sale. Here the maids and possibly Miss Roper are trying to convice the donkey to go to the stables. A rare snapshop of the outbuildings at Tranby which have long since been demolished. 

Provenance: John Henry Welton's personal collection