When Oakwell Hall became a museum in 1929, it was still common for historic houses to have resident caretakers. The first family to live and work at the Hall in its new role were the Sandersons, who both cared for the building and helped welcome visitors. 

James King Sanderson was a gardener and designer. He was headhunted after the new owners, Sir Henry Rae and John Sharman, were impressed by his garden designs. They appointed him to develop and maintain the gardens at Oakwell Hall, and he also took responsibility for looking after the Hall itself. 

In 1929, James married Adelaide Bates, and in 1930 they moved into Oakwell Hall. They lived in part of the West Wing. Adelaide played an important role too, showing visitors around the Hall when it was open to the public. They had three daughters, all born at Oakwell: 

• Shirley Mary (born 1930) 

• Barbara Brontë (born 1933) 

• Ann (born 1936) 

The children had a very unusual childhood. They played all around the grounds and loved exploring the Fairy Glen. The family held Christmas parties in the Great Parlour, filling the big old room with games and decorations. 

During the Second World War, the Sanderson family stayed at Oakwell. When there were air-raid warnings, they went down into the cellars to keep safe. 

The family lived at Oakwell Hall until 1950–51. James then moved on to design the gardens at Batley Park, and the family settled in a cottage on Nova Lane.