BARNSLEY CHRONICLE Saturday June 9, 1860. Death of Mr Birks.
We regret to have to announce the death, on Friday last, of J Birks, Esq, solicitor, Hemingfield, at the advanced age of 88 years. Deceased was in every sense of the term an English gentleman, respected by all sects and parties. He was engaged in business up to the last few days prior to his decease - having the management of several large estates. Only a few years ago his name became familiar through an unexpected act of generosity - having made over a large fortune to a lady who was disinherited by her father, and whose property was left to Mr Birks and another gentleman. Deceased has died very wealthy. We believe Mr Birks was the father of the legal profession in the West Riding.