Henshaw's Blue Coat School Benevolent Society In 1841, a sub-committee of the school trustees were appointed to consider the relevance of forming a Friendly Society connected with the school. The Society was established in 1845-1846 to 'promote friendship and brotherly love among those who have been educated in the school at Oldham'. It was open to all who had attended the school for a small entrance fee and an annual payment which then provided a weekly allowance during a period of illness and a lump sum on death. The Society was wound up in 1912. 1838-1912