In 1840 Isaac & Thomas Reckitt bought their first factory in Hull and since this time, it has created a family of iconic names supporting health and hygiene. The company, now a global brand, has been a proud Hull employer for almost 200 years and many people locally know someone who worked there or still works there today. One of the most locally well know leaders of the company and members of the Reckitt family is Sir James Reckitt, a man who spearheaded support for workers and the wider community including the creation of Garden Village.

Holderness House was the home of Thomas Ferens, a young man who moved to Hull as confidential clerk to James Reckitt. Mr Ferens moved into management at this iconic Hull firm and at the time of his passing in 1930 was still their Chairman. He was also a major local philanthropist.

Holderness House is now a community centre, supporting charities and groups through our house and grounds. Our weekly Craft for a Cause group brings together ladies who use their skills to create things for others but when we heard about An Alphabet of Hull and the fact that R had been selected for Reckitt, there was no way we could pass this by!

Our design has been a labour of cross stich love, based on the iconic Brasso design – a Reckitt product.

The addition of Dolly Pegs has a dual meaning. Dolly Blue bags are another famous Reckitt product, made in Hull. Turning our pegs into little dolls is also a symbolic recreation of a picture showing every member of Reckitt’s Hull works with Thomas Ferens in June 1906 when he completed 38 years with the firm and gifted every member of staff a gold sovereign.

Our Dolly Pegs have been created by group members as well as members of the public, visiting charities and college groups over the last four months making this a real community collaboration.

Holderness House Craft for a Cause Group is always open to new members. Join us 10-12 every Thursday.