The deed of an Odhams apprentice (From Watford Observer)
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The deed of an Odhams apprentice
9:55am Friday 15th October 2010 in Memories
Tom Farrell's apprenticeship deed drawn up when he joined Odhams in 1954.
Watford resident Tom Farrell has sent Nostalgia a copy of the Apprenticeship Deed he signed when joining Odhams in 1954.
Under the stewardship of his father, Charles, Mr Farrell agreed a six-year contract to become a bookbinder with the company.
Mr Farrell, from Beechwood Rise, said: “I signed this deed with my late father just over 56 years ago, when I lived in The Harebreaks.
“It makes fascinating reading now and may I draw your attention to item four: ‘The parent shall find the apprentice sufficient meat, drink, lodging, medical attendance and medicine, and all other necessaries during the said term.’ “What would today’s PC brigade think of that?
“Just for the record, I completed my apprenticeship to become a Class 1 Bookbinder, and worked at Odhams for 30 years.”
The deed signed by Mr Farrell also stated that “The apprentice shall faithfully service the Master, his secrets keep, and his lawful commands obey”.
