In 1863 the Leeds accepted an invitation to open a branch in Sheffield but the history does not indicate any other branches in its early years. Figures given for membership were 6370 in 1868 and a big jump to more than 16,000 in 1878, by which time assets had reached £1.2m.
The Leeds' decision to open a branch in Sheffield in 1863 marked an important milestone for the organization. By 1878, membership had more than doubled, from 6370 to over 16,000, and its assets had grown to £1.2m.