In 1888 he played an important part in raising money for the building of the Liverpool Overhead Railway, and in 1893 became its first chairman . and on 4 June 1902 received the Freedom of the City of Liverpool 3 in recognition of the eminent services he has rendered to the municipality throughout his membership of the council, extending over a period of 33 years, . . . and especially for the deep interest he has taken in the establishment of libraries and reeding-rooms in the city ".
