Help wanted (Page 2) :-
Every now and then I get emails from people who would like further information on specific questions they have about Bristol. I've got an extensive set of references but obviously these can't cover absolutely everything about or everyone who's ever lived in Bristol. Besides which, some aren't indexed properly and although I pretty well know most of the contents I'll sometimes miss information. Set out below are some items I would like to know more about.
I know some people are worried about giving their email addresses to all and sundry, so here is how I protect your privacy. I won't post your surnames or email addresses here, but, unless you specifically ask me not to, I will post your replies on these pages. I will also forward your replies to whoever asked the original question, this WILL include your email address, unless you specifically ask me to withhold it. If anyone asks me to provide your email address I will forward their message to you and reply to them saying that I've passed the message on. It is then up to you to reply to them or not.
You can email me at . Where the writers have no objection to people contacting them directly I've included their email address under the article. We'll be grateful for any any information at all on these subjects.
Richard Champion :-
Original query from Garth, Winterbourne :-
Garth wants information on Richard Champion. Dr Cookworthy, a Quaker, started producing porcelain in Plymouth in 1768. In 1770 he moved to Bristol and set up the the Castle Green Porcelain Works in partnership with Richard Champion. In 1775 Richard had extended the patent (no. 1096) for the manufacture of porcelain. In 1778 they sold the patent to the Newhall Company in Staffordshire.
Changes since 1996 :-
Original query from Alex, Bristol :-
Bristol is bidding to become the European Capital of Culture in 2008. As 2008 is 6 years away what Alex is looking for is information from 6 years ago in 1996. This includes, but is not limited to which companies hadn't arrived yet, which buildings hadn't yet been built etc.
Charity Schools :-
Original query from Carole :-
Carole is looking for information on Bristol's charity schools, especially those in Lewins Mead, Red Lodge Reformatory and Kingwood Mary Carpenter's. She writes...
I would appreciate any help anyone can give re Lewins Mead Charity Schools, Red Lodge Reformatory and the one Mary Carpenter opened in Kingswood. Johnny Ball/ Johnny Balls/ Jonny Baugh Lane info too please. I have an old resolutions book from the Charity School dating from 1797 which I'm trying hard to type out! Some writing is yuk! I'd really like info on the surroundings e.g. Narrow Lewins Mead, Christmas Steps on which I nearly broke my neck a few times!!! I lived in School House Johnny Ball Lane but had no idea at the time the amount of history I could gather. Talk about can't see the wood for the trees! Maybe youth had it's hand too!
Reply from Ray :-
Perhaps some of the sites I gave in answer to the Industrial Schools query may be able to help you.
Charles Skinner & Sons, Carriage builders :-
Original query from Garth, Winterbourne :-
At 37-39 Jamaica Street, Stokes Croft is an old carriage works which is an early example of iron frame structure. It used to be the Royal Naval Reserves headquarters and also the pensions office. I believe the carriage works were called Charles Skinner & Sons and had previously been in Backfields Lane when they were called Charles Skinner Carriage Builders.
Clifton Court :-
Original query from Bob, Adelaide, South Australia :-
Bob would like to know something of the history of Clifton Court.
Reply from Ray :-
All I was able to find was what is written at http://www.cliftononline.net/history.asp and that it is now the Chesterfield Hospital.
Clifton Industrial School :-
Original query from Sue :-
Sue's grandfather was a schoolteacher at the above in 1881, and she would like to know more about it.
Reply from Ray :-
According to Missing Ancestors, the school was situated at Thorn's Building, Clifton wood Crescent, Clifton and was certified for 200 boys. In 1880 the following staff were at the school...
Chairman: Dr. T.M. Carter; Secretary: S. Pim Jackson, Albion Chambers; Superintendent: Frank L Lord; Head Schoolmaster: John Edgar Wilshaw; Collector: J Holder, 12 Kings Rd., Upper Knowle; Matron: Mrs Fanny Lord; Schoolmasters: William James Broome, A.A. Maddox and James Franks.
Clifton Suspension Bridge and flying :-
Original query from Michael :-
Michael says that Family legend has it that his uncle, Copper Openshaw, flew under the bridge in a biplane around the time of World War I.
Michael also wrote to Mike Rowland of the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust who said that in the days of the bi-plane it was common for pilots to "do the Bridge" as a rite of passage, and that the instructor watched from above to make sure they did! There was an RFC training squadron at Filton airfield during WW1 and it is believed many of the pilots stayed at the Avon Gorge Hotel (where no doubt there was a good claret available!) The practice of flying under the Bridge was not officially condoned but nevertheless occurred occasionally right up until the 1930's.
Reply from Ray :-
I've added this story to the Avon Gorge pages. If anyone has more to add we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Clifton Suspension Bridge and murder :-
Original query from Charlotte :-
I'm doing some research on Bristol before the bridge and my old school teacher told me a story his grandmother told him, which she swore was true, about a pub which used to exist before the bridge was built. It was at the point at which you had to pay a toll to carry on into Bristol, so people used to get off the boat and stay there to avoid paying the toll. One night a wealthy traveller stopped at the inn and the land lady and her daughter bumped him off for his money, and dumped his body in the river. Only to discover his diary and papers later, which revealed that he was her long lost son, who'd been sent away to New Zealand 'cos she couldn't afford to look after him when he was a baby. He'd returned on Christmas eve to find his mother and was waiting to reveal his identity on Christmas morning. Is there any basis in truth, can your suggest where I could verify this?
Clifton Suspension Bridge and suicide :-
Original query from Hayley :-
As a born and bred Bristolian I am very interested in the history of the city. I have been fascinated with the story about Sarah Ann Henley - the woman who attempted suicide over the Clifton Suspension Bridge in 1885, but was saved by her dress. I know that you have given information regarding this event, but please could you give me a more in-depth insight into the event and the woman's family etc.
Reply from Ray :-
I've added this story to the Avon Gorge pages. If anyone has more to add we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Additional query from Dudley :-
Dudley is trying to check on a story that one of his family's forebears was the first person to commit suicide by jumping off of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Reply from Ray :-
There have been many suicides from the bridge and I've tried to find the answer to this question before. Unfortunately, I've not had much luck. Perhaps someone could help us with this? I believe that over the years several hundred people have jumped from the bridge but, again, apart from a few, I've not got any details on any of them.
Cloth Hall, Robert Sturmy, Bristol rutters and the Fellowship of Merchants :-
Original query from John :-
Robert Sturmy, a wealthy Bristol merchant, gave his house (on the quay by Bristol Bridge near St Nicholas Church) to the city to be used as the Cloth Hall. Part of the building was used as the meeting place of the Fellowship of Merchants, founded in 1467. The Fellowship maintained a Map Room, probably in this building, from which rutters would have been issued to local captains leaving the port. Does Sturmy's House / the Cloth Hall still exist? If not, what became of it and when? What became of the contents of the Map Room, and are any Bristol rutters still in existence?
Captain John Copithorne and George Washington :-
Original query from Susan :-
Susan is looking for information about a trader operating in Bristol with the name Copithorne, Copthorne or a variation about 1790.
Reply from Jim :-
Capt. John Copithorne sailed to the normal places in the triangle trade. His contacts included George Washington. Capt. Richard Copithorne was a privateer, probably out of Bristol but can not be sure. Capt. John Copithorne the son was one of the last slave traders.
Jim has done a lot of research into this and written a book on the subject. It sells for $30 + mailing costs. Jim can be contacted at allenx@comcast.net
Courages Brewery :-
Original query from A. Price :-
Opposite Castle Green, across the river Avon, there is a derelict building, which looks like it might have been a factory of some sort. Written on the walls, not far about the water is "A masterpiece but the blood and moaning of so many people are echoed in these harbour walls"
Reply from Ray :-
The graffiti probably refers to Bristol's slave trade. "The Bristol Slave Traders - A Collective Portrait" by David Richardson (Bristol Branch of the Historical Association, 1985, page 1) says that around half a million slaves were carried by Bristol ships, this was around a fifth of all slaves carried by British ships. The ships were undoubtedly full of "blood and moaning" but the harbour wasn't. Very few slaves were actually landed in Bristol.
The building you refer to is Courage's brewery. "Bristol &Co" by Helen Reid (Redcliffe Press, 1987, page 33) says this ...
Dozens of small breweries flourished at this period, and in 1702, one of them, by Bristol Bridge, was owned by the Mayor, Sir John Hawkins; this business
was the ancestor of The Bristol Brewery, which produced George’s and now Courage’s beer.
In 1730 the brewery was bought by wealthy slave merchant Isaac Hobhouse and his sons John and Henry built the Porter Brewery that is the basis of the modern complex. This
business passed in 1788 to Philip George, who with six other Bristol merchants, bought a malthouse in Tucker Street and set up as The Philip George Bristol Brewery.
An advertisement in Felix Farley’s Journal, 1794, says: “P. George, Bristol Porter and Beer Company will deliver in barrels and half barrels their Porter to all towns and
villages within five miles of the City and is sold at Fourpence per Quart.”
Brewing was a cut-throat business so George sent a traveller to Ireland to sell the porter - and sold 60,000 barrels a year there. By the beginning of the 19th century
George’s brewery was acquiring other small brewery businesses and a brewery war began: it was of course won by George’s, who in 1878 bought 70 licenced houses as well. That
year they went public and within five years their shares had brought in nearly six and a half million pounds, enough to wipe out many of their small competitors.
By the turn of this century there was only one big local rival left, Bristol United Breweries, which merged with George’s in 1952. In 1961, the firm amalgamated with
Courage’s, who in 1972 were taken over by Imperial. They in turn were taken over by the Hanson Trust, who sold Courage’s in 1986 to the Elders IXL group.
The brewery was closed in 2000 and demolition started soon after. There is an image of the brewery which includes the graffiti on the BBC Collective page.
James Mitchell Cox :-
Original query from Chris, Charlotte :-
On my page about photography in Bristol, I mention James Mitchell Cox who had a studio at the Horticultural Rooms, now The Triangle, Clifton in 1847. Chris has a watercolour portrait by who may be the same person, and would like to know more about him.
Reply from Rhona, Queensland, Australia :-
Rhona says that that she is doing some searching on James Mitchell Cox. I believe he is related to the family of a friend of mine for whom I am doing some family research. James was born in Lymington, Hampshire, and can be traced through the census records. Up until the late eighteen hundreds, he is described in census records as a miniature portrait painter, so I believe that Chris would have one of these.
Joseph Downe Cox who is the person I am researching for my friend was one of the earliest photographers in Christchurch, in the 1850's which leads me to believe that there is a link between the two. Joseph Downe Cox's photos are recorded in the Red House Museum in Christchurch which we visited earlier this year.
Crown and Cushion, Penn Street :-
Original query from Sean, Bristol :-
Sean wants to know about the history of the Crown and Cushion in Penn Street. We think the building must have been erected sometime in the 1950's, after the Blitz.
Additional query from Fee :-
Fee is interested in anything about Frederick Pillinger who ran the pub sometime after 1935.
Reply from Ray :-
The original Crown and Cushion stood in Milk Street which was demolished to make way for Penn Street in 1958 and from which the new pub took it's name. In "Bristol Inns and Alehouses in the Mid 18th Century" by Patrick McGrath & Mary E. Williams and which was published by the City of Bristol in 1979, the the landlords of the original Crown and Cushion are listed as :-
|
1754 1755 1764 1794 1830 1844 1851 & 1852 1856 1879 1896 & 1904 1928 1935 |
John Jones John Jones John Jones Jane Jones Richard Crook Benjamin Lewis Thomas Richards R. Canter John Ferris Thomas Britton George Wainwright George Ripley |
Milk Street in 1901 |
23 Milk Street on the corner with St. James’s Square Avenue. Across the road from the Lamb & Anchor, the Crown & Cushion was pulled down in 1958. You may like to know that were at least 850 pubs in Bristol around 1750, when the population was around 43 - 44,000 people or 1 pub for 50 citizens. It may well be worth contacting the Pub History Society site.
Davis & Co. - Glass Shade Merchants :-
Original query from Alan :-
Alan writes, "Recently I bought an item and I am trying to date it. The only real clue is the label on the wooden base (it's a taxidermy item). The label says Davies and Co., Glass Shade Merchants, 4 Castle Street, BRISTOL, Late of Union Street. I guess my main question would be what year (about ) did they bring in postal codes? in Bristol? I am tempted by the typography of the label to guess 1890 or so.
Reply from Ray :-
I'm no expert on dating this type of thing, but from the examples I've seen I'd say the date of 1890 looks about right. I tried to do a little research into Davis and Co. but couldn't find anything here at home about them.
The numbering of postal districts (Knowle as BS4, Bedminster as B3 and so on) was first proposed by the Royal Mail in 1931, and was put into effect the following year. The post codes as we know them today, BS3 4JZ for example, was introduced in the 1960's and was complete by 1974. (source http://www.royalmailgroup.com/heritage/english/downloads/research/Infosheet_4.pdf)
Reply from Carole :-
Carole writes. "Davis & Co 4 Castle St. under the heading of China, Glass and Earthenware dealers in 1897."
Denford's :-
Original query from Sue:-
Sue has traced her branch of her family back to 1560 with many links to Bristol. She's interested in comparing notes with other Denford's
Dower House & Duke of Beaufort :-
Original query from Adrian :-
Adrian wrote, "As you approach Bristol on the M32, on your right is what I believe to be what was the Duke of Beaufort's house many years ago. To the left hand side (as you look at the house), of this is a small hill with a stone monument (what's left of it anyway) on it. I go running up there sometimes and collapse for a rest just about where the monument is. Speaking to several people over the years and the story behind the monument is that the Duke of Beaufort erected it where his daughter died after falling off her horse. I decided to try to find out some more about this tragedy especially the girl in question (don't ask me why but it's something along the lines of bee & bonnet), but cannot seem to find anything."
Reply from Polly :-
Polly says that this is a well known Bristol ghost. This is one account I found, I have read a few more over the years. Apparently the apparition has caused a few near road accidents.
DUCHESS LAKE, Stoke Park Hospital, Stoke Park, Bristol, Avon - A few of the visitors to this hospital, the main building of which was the home of the Duchess of Beaufort, have sometimes been surprised to see the figure of what appears to be a woman riding a horse moving through the trees near the lake. Some have ignored the couple, others have spent a few minutes in vain waiting for her reappearance. In 1965 a group of youngsters exploring the woods also saw the woman and was convinced that she was the ghost of the Duchess herself. "She is known to have frequented the lakeside", one of them said.
Reply from Ray :-
I've also had several requests for information, such as from Louise, about this house. For such a prominent building I'm having a lot of trouble finding anything about it, does anyone know of a history of the house, either printed or online?
In April 2008, I received a query about Dower House from Jayne so I had another look around the internet. I only found a single page with much information - The History of Stoke Park.
Edward Dowling :-
Original query from Denise:-
Denise writes, "My Father was born in 1919 at the Bristol Shot Tower and lived there with his parents and siblings until my Grandfather died in around 1945 My Grand Fathers name was Edward Dowling there is a photograph of him in the Bristol history books working at the tower in January 1940. We think that his wife was the Grand Daughter of William Watts the inventor of the lead shot. Do you have any information on the position of Edward Dowling and his family and information about the Watt's family, his children's names etc."
Reply from Ray :-
I think I used a scan of the photograph on my Bristol lead working page. Other than that, I've no other information about Edward. I did a quick look on the internet though and found Glenn and Donna Roberts' Web Pages, but I don't think this is the same family as they all appear to come from Middlesex.
Falconbridge Family :-
Original query from Valerie (via Forum):-
Valerie writes, "I am researching ancestors, Alexander and Anna Maria Falconbridge. Alexander was a surgeon on slave ships late 18th century and he and Anna Maria, who travelled with him in 1791 both wrote books on their experiences. Alexander became an abolitionist and he is mentioned in the submissions to the Parliamentary Committee for the abolition for the slave trade.
I cannot find details of his family, where he came from etc. I believe he died in Sierra Leone in 1792 and his brother William died there the previous year from fever.
Anna Maria re married Isaac Dubois? perhaps a trader? and returned to Bristol. She came from a wealthy Bristol family but I cannot find her maiden name, or details of children they or brother William may have had. The only Falconbridge's I know of are from Nottingham and my great grandparents Catherine and Alexander Falconbridge who emigrated with their 6 children from Donegal Ireland."
Fireworks :-
Original query from Frances :-
Frances wrote that "I am trying to find out some information about fireworks factories in Bristol around the 1900s. My great uncle, Frederick Strachan, was listed in the 1901 census as a pyrotechnist. He later emigrated to Australia and was killed at Gallipoli in 1915. I am interested in any records that still exist and any information anyone had about firework manufacture at that time.
Reply from Ray :-
So far, the only thing I've been able to find out was a directory listing for Bishop Brothers of Hanham who were making fireworks in 1894.
There was another factory at Warmley. Crane's Fireworks opened in 1887. In 1916 they switched production to the Mill's Bomb grenade and eventually made about 10 million of the things. There was a fatal explosion there in 1935 that killed 18 year old Nellie Brewer. In 1937, another fire closed the factory, putting 80 people out of work.
John Fox :-
Original query from E. Murray :-
John Fox, jockey, was born in Cockermouth on 15th March 1895, moved to Marseille and married Marie Jeanne Blain. She was born in Marseille on 26th March 1904, and they were married on 9th January 1926. They moved back to England and he died in Bristol between 1963 and 1965
Frampton, Jones and Bowyer Families :-
Original query from Lynn, The Netherlands :-
Lynn is looking for information on the Frampton, Jones or Bowyer families. She writes ...
I am looking for information on the Frampton family from 1300 (or earlier) - 1700. The earliest mention I have found is in the 1300's, with several Framptons mentioned in the 1400's, including a burgess. The Framptons I am specifically looking for are John Frampton (est. 1534-1590), who translated several books from Spanish into English, Robert Frampton, who has a ship The Robert in the early 1600's, and William Frampton, who was born around 1646 and emigrated sometime between 1650-1677 to New York and then Pennsylvania, possibly via Barbados. William was a merchant, a Quaker, an agent for Charles Jones of Bristol in the 1680's, and a member of Penn's government in PA. He may have had a relationship to Sir Edmund Bowyer who signed the Virginia Charter in the 1620's. Thomas Frampton is another possible name. It is thought that William had ties to both Bristol and London and speculation on my part that he was connected to Robert and John, mentioned above. He married Elizabeth Potter in 1680 and died in 1686 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Reply from Ray :-
It so happens that I've got a copy of "Merchants and Merchandise in Seventeen-Century Bristol" by Patrick McGrath (Bristol Record Society Publications Vol. XIX, 1955, page 222). It seems that Charles Jones, both the elder and younger got themselves into a spot of bother with the Customs service. The original source quoted is the Public Records Office, Treasury Records, T1/16 no.7, p.35
November 1691. Defrauding of the Customs at Bristol
To the Kings Most Excellent Majestie
The humble Peticion of John Dutton Colt Collector of your Majesties Customs in BristolSheweth,
That Your Peticioner suspecting a combinacion amongst the Officers in that Port, planted one he thought might be Confided in, and placed him upon such ships with the suspected Officers, where he apprehended frauds were intended; And on board the Bristol Merchant and the Factor detected the Officers and Merchants in combinacion; And recovered for your Majestie Two Thousand Seven hundred Seventy Two pounds; Besides five hundred pounds the Officers concerned in the frauds were fined, and condemned to stand publickly in Bristoll at the assize time, with a paper signifying their crimes; And committed till the fines paid to the Kings Bench; which is of great consequence to deter others, And has prevented your Majestie from being defrauded to several great summs.
That Your Peticioner might have brought the said Informacions in his Own Name, and have been intituled by law to the Moyety of what was recovered, But chose rather to bring the Accions in the Attorney Generalls Name to strngthen the prosecucion for your Majesties service.
Wherefore may it please your Majestie Out of your Gracious consideration to Grant your Peticioner such recompence Out of those Moneys so Recovered as your Majestie shall think fitt.
And your Peticioner shall ever pray &c
Those involved in the fraud were Samuel Packer, Charles Jones the elder, Richard Francklyn, Henry Yates, William Davies, Henry Totterdale, William Smyth, Charles Harford the younger, Charles Jones the younger, Arthur Sawyer, John Jones, John Love, Charles Harford the elder, Baldwin Johnson, Thomas Hobb, William Opie, Jedediah Pickford, Thomas Tyler, Elisha Lancaster, Josiah Clarke, Josiah Stephens and Henry Lloyd. They ended up paying £,2,508 3s 6d for their offences and the customs officers involved were fined and imprisoned as well as being put in the pillory. The fraud involved tobacco and "Cocoa Nutts" which were declared as Indigo.
The following comes from "The Merchant Venturers of Bristol" by Patrick McGrath (The Society of Merchant Venturers of the city of Bristol, 1975) The original source quoted is the Society's Deeds, Box 12, Bundle 19, Dated April 1695.
In April 1695, the Merchant Venturers granted Charles Jones, Thomas Callowhill, Sir Thomas Day and Robert Yate for 99 years the lease to the Hotwell. This was was for a rent of £5 per year. The men agreed to spend £500 on the erection of a Pump Room, lodging houses and other conveniences within three years. The lease started on 25th March 1996. This was one of the few mistakes that the Society made in monetary matters. They would have never let the lease go so cheaply if they realised how popular the spa was to be become. What the Society did do was to ensure that all the covenants were observed, particularly the one that said that all inhabitants of Bristol should have access to the waters. They also tried to exploit another hot well but nothing came of it. See Hotwells. There is a discrepancy between the length of the lease on that page and this. This also occurs in the McGrath book, on page 191 it says 99 years, but on page 88 it says 90.
The following comes from "Bristol Past and Present" by J. F. Nicolls and John Taylor (Arrowsmith, 1881, Volume II, "Ecclesiastical History", page 148)
William Wyrcestre, [or Worcester who died in 1482] referring to the existing structure, [Church of St. John the Baptist, which stands over and beside St. John's Gate] remarks ... was built anew by Walter Frampton, a noble merchant of the city of Bristol. This munificent burgess is buried in a raised tomb in the church over the crypt. Of the family of Frampton four members were successively named Walter, the second of whom was mayor of Bristol in the year of his father's death, 1357, and subsequently in 1365 and 1374. To this second Walter, whose will is dated 1388, the origin of the present structure may be referred, which, according to local annals, was founded in the year 1388 or the year after, though the character of the architecture points to about 50 years later. It might have been a felling of filial piety that induced Walter Frampton, the second of his name, to provide funds to re-construct this sanctuary, his father and mother having been interred within its precincts. The will of the founder bequeaths a large property to his wife Isabella, with the curious and uncomplimentary provision that "if the said Isabella shall marry again quickly, or (which Heaven forbid) she commit fornication and this be proved, then his executors, if any survive, shall take possession of and retain the whole of the legacies bequeathed to her and totally exclude her from any benefit of her inheritance, that is, after three proclamations have been made with sound of trumpet at the High Cross.
He also bequeaths "sixty-two tenements to be sold and the price divided into four parts : one to be given in marriage dowry to poor maidens; one to the relief of poor blind and lame; one to be laid out in the repair of highways and bridges; and the residue among religious mendicants," four orders of whom were established in Bristol.
Note from Denise :-
Denise is researching the Pickford family and adds that Jedediah Pickford mentioned in connection with the customs fraud above, was born in Macclesfield, Cheshire.
If you have any information we'd be grateful if you could email me at brisray@yahoo.co.uk or Lynn directly at lynnvr@planet.nl
Full Moon, Stokes Croft :-
Original query from Steve :-
Steve is looking for information on the Full Moon, Stokes Croft.
The landlord of the Full Moon from 1752 - 1764 was Thomas Smalley. In 1753 an inquest was held there on the body of William Chaffe who died of lunacy on 23rd June of that year.
Furze, Henry & Joseph :-
Original query from Liz, Melbourne :-
Liz is looking for information on her grandfather, Henry Furze, and her great grandfather, Joseph Furze. Joseph was a surgeon in Bristol, Henry worked as a printer before emigrating to Australia in 1952 and started up several newspapers in Victoria.
Marian Gay :-
Original query from Sue :-
An unusual query from Sue, this isn't a "people finder" site, but perhaps someone can help her. Sue writes, "I am looking for a surname of a lady who lived in Stapleton Road, Bristol in 1970, I don't have the number of the bedsit. All I know was her name was Bernice and my mum, Marian Gay, lived in the next bedsit to her."
Pauline Gedroge, nee Marsh, Nee Cole :-
This heartfelt query comes from Anna Marie :-
My name is Ana Marie and I was born in the St Raphaels, Home for Unmarried mothers, Hallen Road, Henbury [see my Brislington page] on 17th September 1963. My mother is Pauline Ann Gedroge (nee Marsh) Nee Cole. Pauline would have been 171/2 when I was born.
My plea is does anyone have any records or know of Pauline? I have been trying to find her for over 20 years now but I do not have her date of birth. Can anyone help?
Gunners :-
Original query from Derek, Bristol :-
Was your Grandfather a Gunner in Bristol?
Derek would like information on members of the 1st South Midland Brigade R.F.A. (T) and as it later became in 1916 240th Brigade R.F.A. (T) which had its home at the Artillery Ground, Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol.
A nominal roll of the units is being transcribed from local papers and unit information with over 1,000 names noted so far. If your Grandfather's WW1 medals have either one or the other above units named on the rim he would be very interested to hear from you. Also if the 6 digit Army number starts with 825 or 826 as these were the designated block numbers for the above unit in June 1916.
A history of the unit is being written and will contain names of all ranks with as much personal information as he can find i.e. next of kin, address, age etc.
If you have any information on these units we'd be grateful if you could email me at brisray@yahoo.co.uk or Derek directly at derekjd@blueyonder.co.uk
Derek writes the Gloucestershire Volunteer Artillery Website.
Hams of Bristol :-
Original query from Susan :-
Susan is doing some research into Elizabeth Ham who was born in 1783 and whose mother, Elizabeth Pope lived in Brislington.
Reply from Sarah :-
Sarah asks "is this the same Elizabeth Ham who was a Unitarian and governess to Sir Charles Abraham Elton's family in 1823? There's a reference to her on p.148 of the book ANNALS OF THE ELTON FAMILY by Margaret Elton (Alan Sutton 1994) to her and the journal she wrote, published as "Elizabeth Ham, by herself 1783-1820" ed Eric Gillett (London 1945). I'm trying to locate a copy of her book myself, because I'm a descendant of the Eltons and researching my Elton ancestor. They were prominent Bristol merchants who became landed gentry."
Hanham Woods Murder :-
Original query from Richard :-
Richard is interested in a murder that happened in Hanham Woods.
Reply from Ray :-
I think the murder you're referring to is the one that happened in 1935 of Mrs. Nott amongst the poor squatters living in Hanham Woods.
Here's the basics of what happened. In the 1930’s, there were various families living in the woods. On Wood Hill there were families named Little, Nott, Franklin and Tommy Robbins. There were also families living in Couches Lane, one reclusive old lady was known as Rhoda. She was found dead one day, but the police took little interest.
There were two brothers by the name of Franklin, whose origins were unknown. They kept pigs and would often visit Bristol collecting scraps to feed them. Living on the opposite side of the track was the Nott family, Henry William, his wife, Gladys and son, Dennis.
In November 1933, Gladys left her family and went to live with Arthur Henry Franklin, just 177 yards away. In May 1935, she left Arthur, meaning to go back to her husband. Arthur shot her twice from behind with a single barreled shotgun. Hearing his wife screaming and seeing Arthur standing there with is gun, Henry Nott ran to get his. Arthur fired at Henry, hitting him in the eye and head.
At that moment, two women, Mrs. Dyer and Mrs. Taylor arrived and Arthur admitted the shootings. He was arrested the same day and taken to Horfield Prison, where he was later hanged, aged 44.
The other Franklin brother later committed suicide by shooting himself.
These poor families seem to have been dogged by bad luck. Notts' son, Dennis, was blown out of his shack, but uninjured, by a stray bomb that fell on the area during WWII. He later married and moved to Pucklechurch where he fell off a hay mound and broke his neck and died.
Source - http://weldgen.tripod.com/crime-and-punishment/id11.html
Another interesting murder, was that committed by John Horwood on Eliza Balsum. He killed her by throwing a stone at her and fracturing her skull at Hanham Mills. He was hanged and his skin was used as the covers for the books printed about his trial and execution. The story appears on my Bedminster pages.
Hanham Workhouse? :-
Original query from John :-
John writes, "Could you please tell me if you have any knowledge of the existence of a workhouse for the poor in Hanham, Bristol similar to those which existed at Keynsham etc. I have a friend who insists there was one but I can find no record of it anywhere.
My reply :-
I can't find a reference to a workhouse at Hanham either! There are sites that deal with the poor and education, perhaps one of the following may help?
Industrial Schools
Rossbret
Strays Project
UK Schools History
According to the Workhouse site there were several in and around Bristol, but not in Hanham. These were at Bedminster, Brislington and Keynsham. According to the Keynsham page Hanham was a constituency of the Keynsham Poor Law Union and I suppose Keynsham would have taken the poor from Hanham.
James G. Hawley :-
Original query from Julian :-
Julian is looking for information about a pottery factory owned by James G Hawley in Bedminster in the 1870/80s.He was born in 1826 in Burslem Stoke-on- Trent, son of Joseph Hawley, Potter, who was an ancestor Julian's. James George Hawley is shown in the 1881 census to have eleven children so by now there must be many descendents from all these.
My Reply :-
I couldn't find anything about this from my own collection but a RootsWeb page about the 6th Brigade & 2nd Battalion Canadian Machine Gun Corps says this about a Robert Hawley Gurd, 645373, Sergeant, MM (1888-)...
Provisional Family Notes:
Robert GURD born c1825 Dunmead, nearr Salisbury, Wiltshire [1881: Employed in Sugar Refinery, 3 Raglan Rd, Horfield, Gloucestershire] married: Jane, born c1831 in Trowbridge, Wiltshire
|- Robert Winter GURD born 1855-1856 in Bristol. Died 19th February 1915 Metlakatla, British Columbia [1881: Clerk; 1886-1915: Missionery with the CMS, serving at Metlakatla, Kitkatla and Claxton; 1898: Kitkahtla] married 10th October 1887, Victoria, British Columbia. Elizabeth (Eliza) HAWLEY born c1854, died 27th October 1935 Vancouver, British Columbia [possibly the daughter of James G. & Maria C. HAWLEY, Pottery Manufacturer of 18 Somerset Square, Bedminster, Somerset
|- Robert Hawley GURD born 15th July 1888 Metlakatla, Cassiar, Burrard District, British Columbia. Died 13th September 1939 Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Married 21st September 1922 Vancouver, British Columbia Lillian May THOMPSON, born c1884, died 6th February 1969 Vancouver
|- Marguerite (Rita) Temple GURD born 30th May 1890 in Metlakatla, British Columbia. Died 7th July 1915 Prince Rupert, British Columbia
|- Arthur Percy GURD born 19th March 1892, Metlakatla, British Columbia
|- Harold GURD born 6th May 1893 Metlakatla, British Columbia
|- Ellen GURD born c1858 Bristol [1881: Mantle Maker]
|- Walter GURD born c1868 Bristol
Gordon Hazell :-
Original query from Craig :-
Craig writes, "We are undertaking a fund raising project to build the Gordon Hazell memorial gymnasium in honour of one of the city's sporting greats from the 1950's. We have already a fine selection of memorabilia from Gordon's amazing life, but are always on the look out for other photos and programmes from his local bouts."
Note from Ray :-
Born in 1928 to Bristol wrestler Billy Hazell, Gordon, in his prime, was ranked the No.3 Middleweight in the World. He retired from boxing in 1955 and became PE master at Clifton College until 1988. He died in 2001. You can read more about this world famous boxer at The Beehive.
Charley Heal :-
Original query from Lucy :-
Mike Hallett gave me some information about Old Market which I put on one of my pages. Lucy read this and emailed me. She writes, "I was reading your web site and came across a very familiar name, Charlie Heal. He was my great great grandad, his granddaughter Jean is my nan, but her dad was also Charlie so can you tell me which one you are writing about. I'm sorry its a bit complicated but when nearly every male in the family is called Charlie or Albert it confuses even the family itself. I also wondered if you had any more information or even pictures of him or the family and the fairground, it would be appreciated a lot."
Reply from Carol :-
As far as I know I am related to Charley Heal. Apparently my great grand mother had an affair with one of the Heal`s when the fairground was in Bedminster, she became pregnant by him, the Heal family sent him away and she gave birth to a son who was to be my grandfather. There are quite a few of us which have dark wavy hair and sallow skin all the features are there in each generation of our children. I don't know if this is appropriate information to pass on but as I say it was a long time ago.
Note from Ray :-
I couldn't decide whether to put Carol's reply on this page or not, but eventually decided to. Sometimes this sort of thing turns up when investigating a family's history. It's one reason why I don't even put email addresses on these pages, unless specifically asked to, that, and the fact that I know this site is regularly trawled for email addresses by the spammers. In this case I emailed both Lucy and Carol asking if either wanted the others email address.
Henbury Cemetery Records :-
Original query from Jeannine :-
Jeannine is looking for a list of the cemeteries and burial records of the churches in Henbury. The reason she wants these is because she's looking for the resting lace of an ancestor of hers, Francis Hall, Jr., who died in Henbury on 8th December, 1620.
Reply from Ray :-
"A Guide to Henbury" compiled by the Hallen and Henbury Women's Institute was originally published in 1958, the information below comes my 1970 second edition.
Apparently, Henbury was at that time a huge parish. It included the villages and hamlets, including Aust, Brentry, Charlton, Hallen, King's Weston, Lawrence Weston, Northwick, Redwick and Sea Mills. The main church is St. Mary the Virgin in Station Road. A picture of the church, taken from the booklet is reproduced below.
St. Mary the Virgin church, Henbury
(from "A Guide to Henbury" compiled by the Hallen and Henbury Women's Institute, 1970)
Henbury Court Hotel :-
Original query from Jane :-
Henbury Court Hotel built by Henry Stock in 1807, does anyone know if this building is still standing, or where it was?
Reply from Ray :-
I found this information in the booklet "A Guide to Henbury" compiled by the Hallen and Henbury Women's Institute. Originally published in 1958, this comes from the 1970, second edition.
Just across the road from the Manor house, opposite the roadway leading to the north door of the Church are some railings enclosing an old orchard. This was the site of the Great House, rebuilt by Sir Simon Harcourt in 1708. It stood in the angle between Gloucester Lane and the Turnpike road on it's eastern side. Gloucester Lane is now (or was in 1970, Station Road).
That is on page 22. I included it because on page 26 it says ...
Thomas Stock, the sugar refiner, who had bought the Great House and then pulled it down, built Henbury Court in 1807. his daughter Marianne states that he lived there for 26 years, and died there in 1833. He was a man of resolute mind, facing the total destruction of his Bristol warehouse by fire in 1813 with much fortitude.
After a meeting with John Wesley in 1791, just before the latter's death, Stock became an ardent Methodist and he and his delicate wife frequently went to chapel services at 5.0 a.m. As their daughter writes:-
"My mother would not yield to the fascination of slumber but resolutely arose and in the dark, cold wintry mornings sallied forth, with lantern and pattens, to take her part in these devotional exercises."
She stopped wearing jewellery and they both gave up cards, dancing and the theatre.
Henbury Court was the home of ten orphaned children, as Stock provided for his six nephews and nieces and for his four grandchildren.
Stock's great friend was the Vicar, the Revd. Walter Trevelyan, who was a keen naturalist. Amongst visitors to the Court were Hannah More, William Wilberforce, Adam Clarke, the brilliant Methodist scholar, the Moravian historian, Mrs. Schimmelpennick, the sentimental novelist Mrs. Amelia Opie, and Elizabeth Fry, the great prison reformer.
In 1897 Admiral John Halliday Cave owned the Court and in that year sold it to Sir Thomas Lennard who added to it a winter-garden, picture gallery, music-room and loggia. He built terraces in the garden where a statue of Hebe feeding the swans stood by a classical fountain.
In the early years of this century [the 20th, not the 21st] the house became successively a hotel and then a Children's Home. In 1953 it was demolished to make room for flats on the Henbury estate. The contractor took out the old panelling which was of first rate craftsmanship but to his surprise no one would buy it or even accept it gratis.
The old gateway and a piece of stone walling, deeply carved with the words "Henbury Court" still stand forlornly on the edge of the new estate in Station road. Its name is also remembered in the name of Henbury Court School, but only these few relics remain. Its Dower House, much renovated, is being used today as a private dwelling, and the large summerhouse or chalet, once in its garden, still stands in the centre of the new estate, flanked by tall blocks of modern flats.
Hill End House, Henbury :-
Original query from Jenny :-
Jenny asks about the Good Shepherd Convent and St. Raphael's Mother and Baby Home. According to a short history of these places, the Good Shepherd Convent moved from Arno's Court, Brislington to Hill End House, Henbury in 1948. St. Raphael's Mother and Baby Home was set up in Severn House, Henbury a little later.
Jenny would like to know something more about all of these places. I know nothing about Hill End House or Severn House, where they were or if they are still standing.
Reply from Mike :-
I received an email Mike who actually lives in Severn House. He very kindly sent a photograph of the building and a brief history.
Severn House
Image by Mike Matthews
Mike writes, "The house was built c. 1820 and designed by George Repton, the younger son of Humphry. However I haven't been able to confirm this. I also don't know who it was originally built for. The 1841 census shows Johanna Sawyer, aged 46, born outside the UK, living at Severn House with four children. A Mrs. Sawyer is also listed at Severn House in the 1853 street directory.
In 1861 Alfred George is listed as living at Severn House. The 1861 census shows an Alfred George, 63, brewer, living in a property on Ison Hill Road, which was probably Severn House. However by 1865 an E. Perceval was living at Severn House. This was, I believe, Ernest Augustus Perceval, the youngest son of the British Prime Minster, Spencer Perceval. Ernest is shown at Severn House in the 1871 census, although he's in Tenby in 1881 (perhaps on holiday!) Ernest died in 1896 but in the 1901 census his children Spencer, Jane, Beatrice, Frederica and Emma were all still living in Severn House.
The street directories show the occupants of Severn House as the Mrs. Perceval in 1904, the Rev. John Waterfield B.A. (curate) in 1914, and Captain Gilbert Leonard Stratton M.C. from 1928-1935. I believe the house was purchased by the Good Shepherd Convent in the late 1940s and run as a hostel for unmarried mothers and babies until the 1970s."
Holy Cross RC School, Dean Lane, Bedminster
Original query from Andy :-
Andy is a teacher at the Holy Cross school and writes, "From reading the diocesan history I have discovered the school has a long history in the Bemmy area, moving to different places and eventually being bombed. I was wondering if you or any of your readers/ Bemmy locals have any more they can add to our history and perhaps this info can become part of our teaching in school. I would be grateful for any memory, photo or information you can offer."
Holy Trinity, St. Phillip's :-
Original query from Karen :-
Karen writes "I am trying to find out when Holy Trinity, St. Phillip's ceased to be used as a church and what happened to the graves. I did read somewhere that the graves were moved in 1933 and were moved to Greenbank."
Horfield Prison :-
Original query from Audrey :-
Audrey writes "I am trying to get details of the last man hanged at Horfield prison. I believe his surname was Withey and that he was hanged for the murder of his wife's lover.
Reply from Ray :-
A search on the Internet did come up with only one case of hanging at Horfield and that was Miles Giffard in 1953. http://www.real-crime.co.uk/Murder1/docg.htm#Giffard, Miles He was hanged for killing his parents. In June 2000, someone asked me about the gallows at Horfield and so I rang the prison. They couldn't tell me when it was last used or when it was taken away.
Industrial Schools :-
Original query from Julie :-
Julie writes, "I am trying to find out about the Sisters of Charity Industrial Schools. My Grandmother and her sister were residents of Oriel Lodge Walton in Gordano North Somerset. In 1896 they had a new school built in Knowle, Bristol. Have tried to find out about both of the schools but have had no luck. I have been trying to find out if there is a register to tell why and who placed my grandmother and her sister there. Bristol Archives and Somerset Archives are unable to help. Nobody seems to know anything about this Industrial School. If any one knows of them I would be very grateful for any information."
Julie later emailed to say that "A Sir E. Elton Bart. was paying for them to attend the school." and that he possibly had connections to Clevedon Court
Reply from Ray :-
I've no idea who would hold these records, but there are some sites that seem to specialize in the history of these schools and other institutions. You could try the Industrial Schools, Rossbret Institutions, Strays Project, UK Schools History or Workhouse sites. There is a listing of Oriel Lodge's "Industrial Children" at the Censuses of Gloucester site, but this covers 1891. It may be well be worth contacting the author of that site to see if they have other information available.
As for Sir E. Elton. First of all I thought he might be Sir Edward Marwood Elton. He was lawyer and lived from 1801-1884. The problem is, he was more from Devon than around Bristol. Looking at the history of Clevedon Court, the place was home to the Elton's since 1709. There is more about this at the Eastmond Homepages, Steve Hutchings Budgie's and lots more on Google.
Johnny Ball Lane :-
Original query from Carole :-
Carole would like to know the history of Johnny Ball Lane.
Reply from Ray :-
According to "An A-Z History of 200 Bristol Street Names" by Grace Cooper, 1989, Johnny Ball Lane was named after John a Ball who owned the property adjoining the Franciscan Friary (Geyfriars) in Lweins Mead. It was originally called Bartholomew Lane because of St. Bartholomew's hospital had a gateway at the foot of Christmas Steps. John a Ball was partly responsible for the building of the first Bristol Bridge beyond Bristol Castle in Norman times.
Labour Movement in Bristol :-
Original query from Stephen :-
Stephen is interested in the history of the Labour Movement in Bristol and is trying to trace copies of the "Bristol Labour Weekly" and a book entitled "An Account of the Labour & Socialist Movement in Bristol"
Reply from Ray :-
The Working Class Movement has copies of the Bristol Labour Weekly so they might be able to help you. There are also a couple of books that you can look for that may be of interest to you.
"A Study in Democracy" by Edward Jackson (Co-Op Society, 1911) This is a history of the Cooperative movement in Bristol.
"Trade Unions in Bristol" by Brian Atkinson (Bristol Branch of the Historical Society, 1982) Copies of this booklet may be available in the City Museum. The back cover for others in the series gives a contact address if you can't find that particular title.
Bristol University also holds a copy of Brian Atkinsons thesis "The Bristol Labour Movement 1868 to 1906".
Another book you may find interesting is "The Labour Movement in Bristol 1910 - 1939" by R Whitfield (University of Bristol, 1979)
Three of the best suppliers I know of books about Bristol are Ambra Books, One is a stallholder in the St. Nicholas Market, actually in the Corn Exchange. He's a very helpful guy and may be able to help. Harlequin Books in Staple Hill also has a good range of books about Bristol and again, are very helpful.
The Living Easton website mentions the book "An Account of the Labour & Socialist Movement in Bristol" and they too may be able to help.
Lapham's :-
Original query from Hugh :-
Lapham's were tailors and waistcoat makers, Hugh would like some information on the company.
Reply from Carole :-
Carole writes, "Alfred Thomas Lapham was a tailor 122 Cheltenham Road."
Lead Working :-
Original query from John :-
John of the Central Alternative High School, Dubuque, Iowa who is doing research into a local lead shot tower built in 1856. John wants to know a little about the history of lead shot making, which goes back to William Watts of Bristol in around 1780.
Reply from Ray :-
Because of the research I did for John, I wrote a page about Bristol lead working. If you've more information then I'd appreciate hearing from you.
Loder's :-
Original query from Jeannie, Australia :-
Jeannie has an old postcard she picked up years ago addressed to a Pte. 609 Jim Loder who was in Netley Hospital, Hants 1p stamp on it - it was from his sister Mabel from 32 Cannon Street, Bedminster. 32 Cannon Street is now a computer shop. Does anyone have any more information on the Loder's or Cannon Street?
Long Family :-
Original query from Sharon :-
Sharon writes :- "I have ancestors who came from Bristol and have been trying to research a bit about their background. My gggrandfather Thomas Walter Long listed his address at the date of his marriage as "Bath Buildings Montpelier Bristol". At this point his father John Long (a veterinarian) was deceased. I have found some information regarding the building but am sure there is more out there somewhere. Another address I am looking for, but which may no longer exist is 68 Child Street - that was the address listed by his wife on that date - 11 October 1859, as being her residence. Her father was a (by then deceased farmer) - Joseph Evans. Just wondered if there was anyone out there who had some info or pics on either of these addresses."
Reply from Ray :-
There is more information about Bath Buildings on the About Bristol site and a Google search found more information, especially about the Old England pub. Child Street no longer exists, and I can't find any information about that address. Veronica Smith in "Street Names of Bristol" (2nd edition, 2002, Broadcast Books, ISBN: 1874092907) says about Bath Buildings...
"This is the site of the Grand Pleasure Gardens built in 1746 by Thomas Rennison, threadmaker. The original pool was over 400ft in circumference. There was a smaller pool for ladies, and the Old England Tavern stood in the gardens.. The place gained a reputation for debauchery and eventually closed in 1916. A part of the site was then sold to Colston's Girl School."
The book "Montpelier: A Bristol Suburb" by Mary Wright (2004, Phillimore, ISBN: 1860772846) should have more information on Bath Buildings but I haven't got a copy of it.
Mahoney Family
I got a very nice, interesting letter from Diane in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada. She sent this article from the Bristol Evening World of January 7th, 1935 about her great-grandfather Philip Mahoney...
A Bristol man who claimed to have made the first motor-car in this country
died during the weekend.
He was Mr. Philip Mahoney, for many years on the staff of the Bristol
University workshops in Unity Street.
Mr. Mahoney, it is claimed, designed the engine of the first motor-car,
made by the Benz company, Germany, and fitted it to the car. He was
Assisted by Mr. Thomas F. Hobbs, who now lives at Portishead.
The car was made about 1890 and a description appeared in a trade paper
called "The English Mechanic."
No earlier model has been traced in this country.
Diane also writes that "We have some very neat addresses for the family of such interesting names as these:"
3 Frog Lane 1903
5 Museum Avenue 1904-05
101 St. Georges Road 1906-1915
109 St. George's Road 1919 - ?
In 1906 the family apparently also ran a Green Grocers Shop on St. George's
Road while they lived at 101 St. George's Road.
Diane is the granddaughter of George Mahoney, who went to Canada in 1923 and died in1959.
Martin, Parker, Thomas and Bailey Families :-
Original query from Wendy :-
Wendy is looking for details of Henry Martin (born about 1851 at St Philips) and married Amelia Eliza Wright (nee Pinker a widow) in December 1875 at Bedminster Register Office, they had a son in 1879, Henry Parker Martin who was brought up by his aunt and uncle (Perrot or Peverall) from the age of 9 at Osborne Street, Southville, after his mother died.
Also Henry Parker who married Mary Ann Pinker both born about 1817 (he was a cooper and lived at Mill Lane - somewhere along the line I think there is a connection to piano makers)
Also George Thomas who had a son George Christopher Thomas. Also Harriet Bailey who married George Christopher Thomas in April 1877 (her father was shown to be a hawker on her marriage certificate)
Reply from Ray :-
Wendy also asked where people would be buried before the building of Arno's Vale Cemetery. Arno's Vale was established by an Act of Parliament in 1837. Its first burial was in 1839 and by the end of the century around 96,000 burials had taken place. For a history of the cemetery see the Friend's of Arno's Vale Cemetery site. Before Arno's Vale people would have been buried in one of the churchyards around the city. These were becoming overcrowded, hence the need for the massive cemetery in Brislington.
E. N . Miles :-
Original query from Karen :-
Karen says that she has been looking for information on E N Miles's the haberdashery that used to be in Canon Street, opposite the London Inn. She recalls what a wonderful shop it was.
Reply from Carole :-
Carole writes, "They used to give a farthings worth of dressmaking pins instead of a farthing! I was told don't take the "pins" when I went shopping for my mother and grandmother!"
Mortimer House, Clifton :-
Original query from Keith :-
Keith would like information and old photographs of Mortimer House?
Reply from Ray :-
From The Hart-Davis Family, Mortimer House was once home to William Hart Davis who was born in Bristol on 8th June 1766. Between 1807 and 1812 he was the MP for Colchester. He died in Hampstead on 21st February 1842 and was buried in Kensal Green Cemetery, London.
Pigot's Directory says that in 1830 the house was home to Harford Battersby.
The English Heritage have a photograph of the house take in the 1920's by Gerald Sanville, but I've been unable to find a copy of it.
This page created 22nd July 2004, last modified 30th April 2008