In 1867 Isherwood acted as the local secretary in an industrial dispute and 19-week strike that ended with victory for the miners.
With savings from his earnings, he set up in business as a building contractor and grocer but did not sever his links with the miners.
After the death of William Pickard he became vice-president of the Lancashire and Cheshire Miners' Permanent Relief Society.
Deputations and officials from local pits and branches affiliated to the LCMF attended the cemetery.
A 12 feet 4 inch high monument made of Aberdeen granite weighing eight tons and costing £150 was erected to Robert Isherwood's memory in Tyldesley cemetery.