History of the Chelmsford SA Band from 1886 to 1959

Since its inception the Chelmsford Salvation Army band has proclaimed the gospel message both in Chelmsford and many centres throughout this country and abroad. The band was formed in October 1886, not long after the commencement of the Army's work in Chelmsford. In the first 19 years of its existence there were five bandmasters, however since then there have been just 4. The first five Bandmasters were Bro H Smith, Willie Orrin, Sol Jackson, E Brown, & George Orrin.

The early days of the band's existence were not without incident. As was the way in those days, people were often quite active in their dislike for The Salvation Army and what it stood for. The band was often at the front of any march through Chelmsford and took the brunt of any attacks made on the early day Salvationists. It is reported that often the drum was attacked and smashed but, for some reason, the other instruments were not damaged.

In 1905 Bandmaster Edward (Ted) Jackson took over the band, a position he held for 42 years. He became renowned for his thorough band training and accurate score reading. The band carried out many away week-ends between the two wars including such places as Harwich, Ipswich, Lowestoft, Felixstowe, Sheringham, King's Lynn, Hastings & Retford. One highlight in this part of the band's history was playing at teh Army's celebrations at the Alexandra Palace as a solo band in 1923. Special week-end campaigns were resumed again shortly before the end of the Second World War with a visit to Leeds New Wortley, a rather tedious journey being undertaken by train, as coaches were not available immediately prior to the cessation of hostilities.

In November 1947 Tom Jordan was commissioned bandmaster, a position he held for 12 years. The first away engagement under his leadership was to Ramsgate for Easter 1948, which included a programme in Maidstone prison on the outward journey. Further campaigns followed including visits to Ilkeston, Hounslow, Wisbech, Southall & Bedford. The band undertook a tour of northern France & Belgium in 1949, a memorable occasion for all the bandsmen. Unfortunately Tom suffered from ill-health during the last two years as Bandmaster and during this period the band was conducted by Captain Walter Fletcher (who composed a number of items published in the SA brass band journal) and Deputy Bandmaster Lloyd Harvey.

For the history of the band from October 1959 to date please see part 2 of the band's history.