Description:This is an abridged version of his biography from the Handsworth Magazine. The full version is available as a download. The house where he died was owned by his son Ernest Percy Satchell (a surgeon)and stood next to the junction with Terrace Road.
During the last few days death has deprived Handsworth of its oldest resident. Mr John Satchell, who died at the residence of his son Dr Percy Satchel, 27 Hamstead Road on Friday the 9th inst., reached the patriarchal age of 93 years and enjoyed the full use of his faculties to the end of his long and honourable career.
The deceased gentleman was born in the ancient town of Warwick. For many years he was a prominent personage in the public life of that historic place. He was in turn councillor, alderman and mayor, occupying the mayoral chair in 1851-52.
A convinced Liberal in politics, the deceased gentleman took an active part in the great reform agitation of 1830. He was a staunch supporter of John Bright and joined in the procession formed to celebrate the completion by the Tribune of the People of 25 years Parliamentary service as member for Birmingham.
Mr John Satchell has resided in Handsworth since 1862 and has for many years been a member of the Handsworth Liberal Association.
Whilst an ardent politician and reformer Mr Satchell was first, foremost and always a Christian. Through the greater part of his life he occupied a prominent place among the Congregationalists and during his early years came into contact with many of the leading divines of the Congregational Church. He was a member of the Brook Street Congregational Church, Warwick, and was elected deacon there in 1844. When he left his native town and came to reside at Handsworth the members of the Brook Street Church showed their great respect for him by electing him life deacon. He was therefore for 56 years a deacon of that place of worship. For the past 14 years Mr Satchell has also been a deacon at Soho Hill Chapel, Handsworth.
The deceased gentleman leaves four sons and one daughter.