THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF Houghton Heritage Society

:::: THETHE GOLDENGOLDEN QUEENQUEEN :::: MAUTLANDMAUTLAND SQUARESQUARE :::: MEETMEET OUROUR PRESPRESIDENTIDENT :::: WRIGHTWRIGHT AROUNDAROUND HOUGHTONHOUGHTON :::: WHOWHO DODO YOUYOU THINKTHINK YOUYOU AREARE QUESTSQUESTS :::: ANDAND MUCHMUCH MORE!MORE! OUTRAM STREET CORONATION PARTY, 1953

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

CAN YOU HELP? If you have any old photographs of Houghton-le-Spring that you would like to share, please contact Paul Lanagan via www.houghtonlespring.org.uk

FACES AND PLACES

Photographs are treated with care and respect and are returned promptly once they have been copied.

Allowing your precious photographs to be copied and shared ensures that they will be around for generations to come.

1953 Coronation, 1977 & 2002 Jubilee photos also wanted for a special commemorative book later in the year!

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

www.HOUGHTONleSPRING.org.uk

THE HH WEBSITE IS UPDATED FREQUENTLY. JUST CLICK ON THE UPDATED LINK ON THE HOME PAGE TO SEE WHAT’S NEW. SOME OF THE UPDATED PAGES DURING THE PAST THREE MONTHS INCLUDE:

:: Knick Knacks & Curiosities – page updated with details of small glass etched to commemorate the explosion at Houghton Pit in 1850. :: Houghton’s Cenotaph – the page about Houghton's First World War memorial has been WELCOME TO THE HOUGHTONIAN, updated with new images and addition information about the Cenotaph. the quarterly magazine of the Houghton-le- Mautland Street & Mautland Square – a Spring Heritage Society. This is our seventh :: house-by-house guide to the houses and shops consecutive issue, numbered as Volume 2 Issue on Mautland Street and later Mautland Square 2 and has taken a special Union flag theme to (1969-2001). commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. :: Houghton Hillside Cemetery Lodge – details added about the erection of the lych gate THE CELEBRATIONS CONTINUE, as June archway next to the Cemetery Lodge on th marks the 30 anniversary of Jean Holland’s Street. time as a barmaid in the Golden Lion and in this :: Robinson Brothers Brewery – time line about issue we pay tribute to her. We also pay tribute the old brewery maltings on Durham Road has to Jack Morley, a son of Houghton and a been updated. supporter of Houghton Heritage. :: Sunderland Street: House by House Guide – the Sunderland Street directory has been IN MAY, Houghton Heritage Society visited updated with more residents and occupants from Grangewood Care Home in and the Censuses and old advertisements. gave an illustrated talk to the residents as part of :: Houghton Pit Pony Hoof - a miner's memento Dementia Awareness Week. Thanks are of his dead pit pony from Houghton Colliery, extended to all at Grangewood for their 1910. hospitality. :: Houghton's George V Coronation Bonfire – the article about the Coronation Bonfire has been HOUGHTON HERITAGE updated with other Jubilees and Coronations.

Society would also like to place on record grateful thanks to showman Stanley * * * * * * * *

Reeves of S&D Leisure for If you’re reading a printed his recent generous donation version of The Houghtonian and are of £100. Find out more having difficulty seeing the print, did about the UK’s the premiere amusement rider provider at: you know you can read the online www.sdleisure.com PDF? This can be increased in size up

AS ALWAYS, I do hope you enjoy this issue. to a whopping 6400% in Adobe

Reader!

PAUL LANAGAN FOR INTERNET ACCESS AT HOUGHTON CHAIRMAN LIBRARY – TELEPHONE 0191 561 6383 H-L-S HERITAGE SOCIETY FOR DETAILS.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

DR JOHN SELWYN MORLEY, PhD, MD, DSc

Houghton Heritage Society is proud to announce that supporter Jack Morley, has been appointed as Honourary President. Jack was born at 32 Edwin Street in 1925 and his memories of Houghton, particularly of the 1930s, have been of great help to the Society since he first got in touch back in 2007. Jack is a modest gentleman, however the Society has recently learnt of his life achievements, which are detailed below, and is now seeking to have his name included in the Houghton Grammar School Book of Honour which records the achievements of the school’s alumni.

Jack attended Newbottle Street Infant and Junior Schools from for research on chronic pain. On February 16 th 2011, 1930 – 1937, Houghton Secondary/Grammar School from the Pain Research Institute was awarded Freedom of the City of 1937 – 1942 and then went to University College Durham to Liverpool in recognition of the success of its work over the last study life sciences. After graduation in December 1945 (being 30 years. Jack personally raised research grants of over Wartime, there were four terms each academic year), he was £500,000 during this period, and his own researches solved sent to the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine to continue problems in the use of morphine, leading to new procedures his medical studies and do research on malaria. which are used world-wide.

His subsequent working life has been devoted to medical The move to the Institute also enable Jack to pursue research research, published in some 200 papers. The results won on his main interest in neurology – the possibility that international acclaim, resulting in his being invited to be a main regeneration of the human central nervous system (CNS) was speaker at many meetings around the world. possible. The teaching in medical schools was then that the CNS was ‘fixed, immutable and can’t be changed’. Using novel Until 1982, these researches were at Liverpool, Cambridge and experimental systems, he demonstrated that regeneration was Universities, and at ICI Alderley Park. Highlights indeed possible. He applied his findings in the treatment of were his prominent role in the isolation and characterisation of Parkinson’s Disease, and initiated clinical trials which are still in gastrin, the antral hormone; his discovery of a simpler form of progress. the hormone now used in hospitals for the assessment of gastric secretory function; his role in the discovery of Zoladex, a He and his wife Nancy have been married for 63 years. They gonadorelin analogue for the treatment of prostate cancer; and moved to a home in Cheadle Hulme, near Stockport, in 1954, his pioneering research on endorphins – our body’s natural and still live there. Both have been actively involved in local opiates. community work (he was an Urban District Councillor, magistrate, school governor, Chairman of the Scout’s In 1982 he co-founded a unique multidisciplinary Institute at Association, Citizen’s Advice Bureau etc). Liverpool for research on chronic pain. On February 16 th 2011,

Jack Morley (right) with Paul Lanagan outside the Golden Lion PH, 2011.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Can you help solve these Genealogical & Heritage Quests?

RITCHEY’S YARD father was born at Houghton on 3 Charity Cup into the Internet and table with a label on the underside Dear Houghton Heritage, In one March 1921 above his up came a picture of the 1912 cup of the table that is quite worn. of the censuses it states that there grandparents' corner shop. winning team, with my Some of the writing is worn away was a Ritchey’s Yard which was Unfortunately I don't know the grandfather's picture. I remain but I can still read some. This behind Ritchey’s shop in Nesham name of the road but I was taken totally gobsmacked! I have found piece of furniture came from Place. Can anyone tell me there in the 1960s by which time it a website that states that the only Clingly Antiques: anything about it? had been re-converted into a player so far identified is the -----ery Row Methodist Church, Margaret Ritchey house. The names of the goalkeeper, Jack Heath. My Houghton-le-Spring, , --- A&M Ritchey’s Good Grub grandparents were Elizabeth and grandfather, Simon Graham is --s 2030, Sunderland 75012 H (Henry?) Davidson. They had next to him, on his right, i.e. back Can you provide me of any Newbottle Street four children. 1.Herbert who row 4th from left. I need to find assistance in determining this married Suzie and they had one out where Simon was living in business? The address? The son Tom and two girls Betty and 1912. My early years memories are church? I have been fruitlessly SIR GEORGE ELLIOT Dorothy. Both girls married two Simon and Isabel Graham living at searching on the internet and have Dear Paul, It has been many years brothers by the name of Fulton. 25 Bullion Lane, Chester-le-street. yet to find much information. since we communicated regarding 2.Grace who married Tom Lax. They had three children, Mary, my Sincerely. the life of Sir George Elliot for my They had one daughter Bessie mother, Frank Graham and Ruth. Susan Wilkinson book about Powell Duffryn. I hope who was knocked down by a bus Frank's children Peter and Patricia California, USA you are well. Please can you help? on 20 January 1939. She was were brought up in Pelton/ I wish to write to the owner of aged just 9. They also had a son Perkinsville. I know that Simon's PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: Houghton Hall seeking permission Harry who continues to live in father was the landlord of the Ship Dear Susan, Thank you for your to use a photograph I took of their Houghton. I am regular contact Inn at Pelton, one reason why enquiry regarding the dining table. in home in my forthcoming book with him and he is trying to obtain Simon was teetotal. I am totally This piece of furniture came from about Powell Duffryn. The a book on the history of Houghton fascinated by the picture, we have Clingly Antiques. I have not heard publisher, Black Dwarf Lightmoor, which includes a photo of the never seen this before. Magic! of Clingly Antiques before but it postponed publication of the aforementioned shop with both Kind regards. appears that it was in Sunderland Powell Duffryn book in 2008 due grandparents standing outside! Alan Dolman based on the old style telephone to the economic situation, but last 3.Mildred (my grandmother) who number of 75012 - before the 56 year asked me to get ready for married Maddison Wilks. They had prefix was added. The table came laying out my work this year. The two boys William Maddison (my DENE HOUSE FARM from Colliery Row Methodist task of laying out the book will dad) and Thomas Davidson. Dear Houghton Heritage Society, I Church, located in , begin soon. Please could you the 4.They also had a son William. I am a descendent from the near , just outside of name of the owner of Houghton know nothing of him. My main Bowden family that owned Dene Houghton-le-Spring town centre. Hall? Last year, Black Dwarf question concerns the Houghton House Farm at Houghton- le- I would assume it was probably published my first book, 'Vickers' Cut. My grandfather used to tell Spring circa early 1800. We will the communion table - can you Master Shipbuilder: Sir Leonard me it had been cut by French be in Durham soon and would supply some photos? I don't know Redshaw', and I attach 'MER Prisoners of War during the mid appreciate the opportunity to what the "-----s 2030" is; if it had Review of LR Book.jpg', which is a 1800s. Is this correct please? I research the family history. Could been 1830 or 1930 I would have review of the book in MER (Marine remember visiting the cemetery off you direct us to the best location guessed the date it was donated to Engineers Review], a journal the cut in the 1960s. What a for help in this matter? We have the church. Older locals recollect published by IMAREST, formerly tranquil place it was. He also told the book The Peoples History that when the church first closed it the Institution of Marine me that some French PoW were Houghton-le-Spring by Geoffrey was used for storing antiques, so Engineers. Best wishes buried there. Is that also correct? Berriman; it has a photo of Dene they probably sold the items left in Les Shore Many thanks and keep up the House Farm being worked in the church. It is now used for the great work with your website! 1954. We would like to know the storage of building materials. You Oh yes, and a Happy New Year to origin of the photo and the exact can see the Church on Google you all. RAINTON PIT DISASTER location of the Farm. We would Maps. I do hope this information Hi Paul, After some info off the St Paul Wilks like to contact him by email and is of use to you. Michaels Burial register. Have the Cheshire ask if you could provide us with his form here to send to you for 8 address and/or contact details records of Blackbird's and PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: please, if you have them. In fact if SOUND FAMILIAR? Blenkinsop's but then thought I There is a photograph in ‘The you have details of any other Hi Paul, I visited your site today am probably related to all of them. People's History: Houghton-le- contacts that could be of and noticed the following burials Just for your info the main thing I Spring’ by Geoffrey Berriman, assistance, thank you if you could relevant to my family history: am trying to work out is if the 2000, on page 52 showing forward to us. Look forward to Thomas Forest; Ann Forest; Thomas Blackbird who died in the Davidson's Grocery shop in Edwin your assistance with thanks. Jacob Forest; Ann Forest; Jane Rainton Pit accident of 1823 is the Street, circa 1920. Could this be Regards. Forest; Jane Forest; John same Thomas who is my 4 x Gr the photograph you refer to? Moira Moretti Forester; Jane Forrest; Jane Grandfather. Cheers. Adelaide, Australia Swailes; Mahala Swails; and Steven Slater Robert Swales. Kind regards.

FOOTBALL TEAMS John Forrest

Hi Paul, Last week I decided to WHOSE CHABBLE? Australia EDWIN STREET SHOP give my grandfather's football Paul, I am a American woman Hello, I have been looking at your medal to my grandson. My living in Sacramento, CA, USA, website with great interest. My daughter put and own a very old oak dining father was born at Houghton on 3 Charity Cup into the Internet and table with a label on the underside March 1921 above his up came a picture of the 1912 cup of the table that is quite worn. grandparents' corner shop. winning team, Some of the writing is worn away Unfortunately I don't know the but I can still read some. This name of the road but I was taken piece of furniture came from there in the 1960s by which time it Clingly Antiques: THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

1949

Ref no: HLS1854161464

A children’s pageant in the Rectory Park, thought to be part of the opening celebrations, 1949. The children were dressed as important historical figures in the development of our country. The young boy at the right was David Livingstone. Pictured are, from left to right: unknown; unknown; unknown; unknown; Michael Allan; unknown; Alec Layfield; unknown; Alan Smirthwaite; unknown; unknown; unknown; Keith Littlewood; unknown; and Geoffrey Atkinson. Can any reader help name those currently unidentified?

BE SURE TO visit the Peppercorn Café on Newbottle Street this Diamond Jubilee weekend, as on display are actual signatures from King George VI and his wife, Elizabeth. Both are inside a visitors’ book from Children’s Home on the page dated February 22nd 1939. Café owner, Michael McGlinchey, is pictured left with the book which also contains the signature of actor Johnny Weissmuller, best known for playing Tarzan. Sadly the book shows that there were no visitors on Christmas Day.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Can you help solve these Genealogical & Heritage Quests?

JOLLY FARMERS INN SOUND FAMILIAR? MOORE & WHEATLEYS THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL Dear Paul, I was intrigued by the My father's family hails from Co Dear Houghton Heritage, My great Dear Houghton Heritage, I came information you have been able to Durham. I had a great aunt whose grandfather George Moore (from across your site whist trying to find obtain about the village. I was address was 21 Outram Street in Leamside) worked the Pit until out where I could locate an art wondering if you have any Houghton-Le-Spring and her 1926 and then came to the United teacher from Houghton Le Spring information on the "Jolly Farmers name was Mrs Jenny Williams nee States. I am searching for any Grammar School (around Inn" located in Houghton-le- Stewart. I was in touch with her all family connections to the Moore 1968/69) called Helen Joseph, Spring. It was owned by my great through the fifties, when I was a and Wheatley families. My Great possibly Josephs. It brought back grandfather, Arthur Smith -wife little girl, until her death. She and grandmother Josephine (from great memories of school there (I Sarah Ann - and unfortunately her husband did not have any Houghton-le-Spring) and George was at the Grammar). And of there is little material that was children. I am not actually very were members of St. Michael and course Dimis. Keep up the good passed on to the remainder of the sure where it was exactly that my All Angels. That is all I have to go work. family. The only thing that we have father's family originated from but on. Thanks for welcoming me to George Blacklock is an old postcard with the "pub" it was the Sunderland-Durham the group. I have no middle name circled. Any rememberances of area. My father's father was a John for her. She had two daughters the establishment came from my Smith, which is not really very when they left Josephine (born TWEDDLE & MCLAREN great aunt Sadie who resided in helpful but my grandmother's 1920) and Gladys (my Dear Houghton Heritage, I am the village till at least 1989. Any name was Margaret Purvis grandmother, Feb 25, 1923). researching into vessels lost off assistance in obtaining (Purves?) and she had a younger Chris Bowen the Portland Bill area of the information is greatly appreciated, sister, Mildred, who married USA English Channel and I am trying to Sincerely. George Richardson, from locate photos/information on the Craig Posmantur Sunderland. There was possibly a following steamship - Name Buffalo, New York brother as well (Tom?). Margaret STANLEY HORACE KAY S.S Hesledon Hall; Built trained as a tailor at Binns (?) in Dear Paul, I have been looking at 1878; Builder Chlesinger & Davis, either Sunderland or Newcastle the Houghton Heritage Website ; Tonnage 595 grt; and John was a draper, I think, THE JOLLY FARMERS INN with great interest as my Owner Tweddle & McLaren, with the Coop. I am just grandparents lived there at the Houghton-le-Spring, Durham; Information required on Spring wondering if anyone might have Inn in Houghton-le-Spring re: Mr beginning of the C20 and my Fate 25-7-1880 sunk in any memory of these people or father was born there in 1914. I collision off Portland, Dorset. Any Wheatley - manager - around know of any descendants. 1946 to assist in compiling my remember trips to Houghton as a help you can give me would be Gillian McKim natural family background. Thank small child to visit the grave of my most appreciated. Kind regards. you for considering my request. father’s brother, Stanley Horace Alan Dunster

James Brynley Kay who was killed in a very early FIELD HOUSE, 4 LANE ENDS motor car accident on Whit Chacksfield Paul, My wife's cousin's father was Monday in 1924. It was widely JUNCTION ROW QUERY born at Field House, Four Lane reported in the newspapers at the Re. Mr.Rob Leach's querie about Ends, Hetton le Hole in 1921. In time. My father was born at 28 Junction Row. There is/was a NESHAM PLACE my imagination 'Field House' Sunderland Street in 1914. My terrace of about twenty cottages Dear Houghton Heritage, My could be anything from the stately grandfather, Horace Kay, had a t'other end of Blind Lane from name is Pete Thomas. I am not home of Lord and Lady Field to a cobblers/shoeshop and is shown Grasswell called Junction Row. sure if you are able to help me, I shed in a field! I can find nothing as being in Electric Crescent in the The terrace stood by Blind Lane am retired from the RAF currently on the web and cannot find it in 1911 Census. If you have any surrounded by fields. Most likely living in the Midlands but looking the 1911 census. I have looked at information regarding his life at they would be colliery houses. to relocate to the North East as it ordinance survey maps of the this time, I would be very grateful Funny enough although there was is where my wife originates from period and nothing stands out. as I have no one I can ask! I live in only that terrace there and we as she wants to be closer to her Do you have any info? Regards London so it is difficult to access locals referred to the area for a family. We are looking to John local records. I wondered whther mile or two around as "Junction purchase a house in the region there are any local newspapers or Row." The isolation hospital up and wondering if you know of any THE LAING FAMILY trade papers that might help me the lane was Junction Row information concerning Nesham Whilst tracing the members of my pursue this. Look forward to hospital. It is on Google Maps. House, Nesham Place, Houghton family, I came across two who hearing from you. Best wishes. Photos? The best I can do is if you Le Spring. I have spent many died relatively recently and Val Lanceley scroll down a bit on the Houghton hours online but unable to come wondered if anyone knew them. I Heritage Facebook group you will up with anything and several sites am waiting for their Death find our Betty as young girl have suggested contacting local Certificates to find out exactly perched on some railings. The historians and I found you, hence KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK where they lived, but your lane crossing behind her is Blind my contacting you. I know it is Just to say that this site is brilliant. members seem to know Lane. Junction Row is a couple probably an unusual request but I I lived in Newbottle as a child but everything and everyone! Their mile to her right. would appreciate any information just love reading all of the postings names were:- Rachel J. Laing, nee you could give. I hope to hear on here. Fantastic dedication! Harry Smith Morrison, who died in 1989 at from you, Regards. Sandra Elvins about 90 Years of age; and Ivy * * * * * * * * * * * Kidsgrove Pete Thomas Laing, never married, who died in Staffordshire 1992 at about 80 Years of age. Keep reading for Hope to hear something. Ray Laing more Quests!

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

TODAY WE PAY A VISIT TO MAUTLAND SQUARE WHICH STOOD AT THE TOP OF MAUTLAND STREET BETWEEN 1969 AND 2001. THANKS ARE EXTENDED TO ALL WHO HELPED WITH THIS ARTICLE, INCLUDING HELEN MURPHY WHO PROVIDED PHOTOGRAPHS. THE HH WEBSITE HAS BEEN UPDATED WITH A SHOP-BY-SHOP GUIDE TO THE SHOPPING DEVELOPMENT.

MAUTLAND STREET SLOPED in a north-easterly direction from Not all of the problems were physical, some were spiritual: one resident Newbottle Street towards George Street and Sunderland Street. It was claimed that her maisonette was haunted and she apparently had to intersected in the middle by Bowlby Street, which ran adjacent to the sleep in one room with her children as they were so scared (the flat was Primitive Methodist Chapel and along the back of Newbottle Street. subsequently exorcised by a priest); meanwhile, there were ongoing discussions about the suitability of the neighbouring Mautland Street In the 1960s a mania for demolition swept Houghton-le-Spring and Methodist Church - in 1977 it was recommended that it be merged with many old buildings were wiped off the map, not just those considered Nesham Place Chapel. In August 1979 the old chapel was demolished slums, but fine and impressive buildings such as the original White Lion while the church halls and school rooms were retained and a new pub, the old Town Hall and parts of the historic Church Street. church, called Houghton Methodist Church, was officially opened on Mautland Street was no exception and in 1969 many buildings were September 27th 1980. demolished leaving a cul-de-sac offshoot from Newbottle Street with a new shopping centre at the end. This was known as Mautland Square Despite the modernising of the church, the issues with the neighbouring and consisted of shopping units on the ground floor with maisonettes Mautland Square still existed and the housing aspect came to an end in and flats above. These were linked with concrete aerial walkways, the 1990s when the flats were boarded up. Some attempts were made synonymous to those seen at New Town developments like the to tempt the shoppers back to the development; Houghton lacked a Washington Galleries and in North . A climbing public convenience (the one near the Rectory Park had a bad reputation) frame was even erected in the centre to keep the children entertained and a futuristic-looking automatic toilet was installed next to 9 Mautland while their parents shopped! Square and the car park in 1990.

The shopping units were filled with an eclectic mix of shops, including: a However, in the summer of 1999 plans were submitted, and approved, butchers, a fish and chip shop, a cafe restaurant, a fruit shop, a barbers, for the demolition of Mautland Square. On November 24th 2000, work a TV shop and many others. The new Houghton-le-Spring Library took started on the development of a new Co-Op Supermarket and Mautland up an entire side of the Square. Square was razed to the ground. Some traders, such as the Peppercorn Cafe, relocated to the new library development on the former site of Though billed as modern with underfloor heating, the flats above the Newbottle Street School. shops were rife with dampness and former residents have described how their walls were black with mould, with the only advice available being to The 15,000 sq ft supermarket, which was designed by Newcastle-based turn the heating up and open the windows. Around 1983 the top floor Chartered Architects Coulson Swinbourne Moses and built by John was removed and a pitched roof was added but this didn’t seem to Mowlem and Company, was officially opened on Tuesday December4th alleviate the problem. There were other issues with children using the 2001 by a pupil from one of Houghton’s primary schools following a walkways for BMXing; dog fouling on the walkways; and the lower level competition. More than 10,000 customers passed through the doors in was often described as a ‘wind tunnel’. the first three days. The happy news was blighted a week later when the ran an article claiming that shoppers, who had previously parked in the Mautland Square car park for free and without incident, were now being threatened with wheel clamping should they stay longer than two hours. PAUL LANAGAN CHAIRMAN H-L-S HERITAGE SOCIETY

Photographs kindly shared by H elen Murphy. A full shop-by-shop guide to Mautland Square can be found on the HH website.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Can you help solve these Genealogical & Heritage Quests?

JOSEPH STOKOE would love to be able to have YARD ROW STEWARD FAMILY Hello Paul, I was just browsing permission to quote from your Can anyone help with Hi Paul, I've just been looking at the though the Houghton Heritage findings and would of course give photographs of Yard Row, Houghton Heritage Society website Society site and came across the credit too any information used. I Philadlephia, as one of the houses it's really good and really following on the Houghton Colliery have information on many areas in was where my Father, Thomas informative. I am researching the Remembered page: 1881 - At this the North East and want to Graydon Lawton and his Mother Steward family tree, and whilst we time, Houghton Colliery manager, compare experiences here with the and Father lived? They were all live in Swindon, I had no idea we Joseph Stokoe, lived in Gilpin larger Italian communities in the Benjamin Bould Lawton and have such a strong heritage in House, The Quay, Church Street. large cities, London, , Elizabeth Mary who lived at 2 Yard Houghton Le Spring. Nearly all of He was presented with a golden Manchester and Liverpool to see if Row which was within the NCB my ancestors were born there or coach clock with the following the smaller communities Philadelphia Workshops, where nearby (Rainton, Castle Eden, inscription: "Presented to Joseph experienced the same changes in my Father did his apprenticeship, Hetton Le Hole) and I'm currently Stokoe Esq, Viewer, on the perception of the Italian and later became Assistant Works learning all about this place - of attainment of his 50Th year by the immigramts especially in relation Manager. The Works Manager at which I didn't even know existed! officials of the Houghton Colliery to 1940 and the rounding up of the time (early 1950s) was a Do you have any tips or good as a mark of esteem July 30th, the local Italian population, Thomas Lawson who I think lived places to look for more 1881" The clock now belongs to and their in Chester-le-Street. Yard Row information? I'm looking at 1700s - Joseph's great-great grandson, experience of riots and where the was demolished I understand in late 1800s mostly. I'm interested to Mike Preiss, in South Africa, and loss on the Arandora Star had the 1950s. I have one grainy know more about the place and still keeps good time. This was an such devistating effects on the image of Father and Grandfather why they all decided to move to exciting discovery as Joseph was Italian population. I have been taken outside of the house, which Swindon - most likely due to the my 3x gt uncle and I am in touch promised oral testimony from a was taken sometime in the 1930s, Railways and working in GWR - but with his gt grandson Noel Stokoe. member of the Pacitto family and but before 1939, as Benjamin wondered if many other families did We knew that Joseph's son other familes and I have contacted Bould was killed in a colliery the same? Seems like a long Joseph Laws Stokoe went out to Michael Minchella in accident in November of that year, journey too! Any comments or South Africa and had at least two who is also going to talk to me. and is buried in the churchyard of suggestions are most appreciated. children but did not know that Unfortunately I am going into St Matthews, Newbottle. Any info Best wishes. there were family still out there! hospital in three weeks for major would be most welcome. Carly Steward Would it be at all possible for you surgery so my research time is Ian Lawton Swindon to put me in touch with Mike severally curtailed. Any help you Wakefield Preiss please? Thanking you in are prepared to give would be greatefully received and as stated advance. FIELD HOUSE FARM would be acknowledged in my Pam Bennett PLAIN PIT DISASTER Dear Sirs, I have been researching dissertation. Yours faithfully. Dear Houghton Heritage Society, my Father's Mother's family. They Dorothy Dinsdale Just stumbled across this group were the Richardson family, and HOUGHTON EMIGRANTS Teeside and am thrilled. I do a lot of had a farm at Field House, West Virden, Illinois, USA is home to genealogy and some of my Rainton in the 1800s. I came many descendants of former THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL ancestors originated from across the Houghton Heritage Houghton residents. Most Prompted by a question from my Houghton Le Spring, back as far Society site during my research, emigrated around 1901-1903. My cousin in Australia, I would like to as 1800. Names include and saw a letter from Deborah great great grandfather was find out more about Houghton le Patterson, Gardiner, Gardner, Whinfield, regarding the grave of George Smith, married first to Spring Grammar School (known Gardener, Watson and Gibson. A Hannah Richardson. I don't know if Jane Thompson, and later to Ann previously as Houghton-le Spring lot of them are buried in St the Hannah Richardson that Ms Lampton. My great grandmother Secondary School). My Michaels Churchyard including my Whinfield is seeking is related to my was Arthurina Ashman Smith, Grandfather, Thomas Alfred King, 4x great grandfather and his son family, but I do have some whose brothers and sister except taught there from 1926 when the who were killed in the Plain Pit information which shows 3 for Phoebe remained in school opened until his mining disaster in 1823. Hannahs, one born 1839, one born Houghton. Other families who illness/death in 1949. My mother Nicky Winkworth 1865 and one born 1897 (Mary emigrated were Osborne, Page, and her two sisters and her Hannah Richardson, who lived at 7 Rankin, Scott, Hutton--all local brother were all pupils at the Shiney Row). I appreciate there miners. school and they have plenty of LAYBOURN & ELLIOTTS were a lot of Richardsons around at George Rishel memories, but no photos and no I’m looking for information on the the time, and Hannah was a fairly Illinois, USA "official" documentation. I'd following Laybourns and Elliotts, common name, but we may find we particularly appreciate memories who may have been from the are researching the same family. Is and pictures. Houghton-le-Spring area: Bessey it possible for you to forward my HOUGHTON’S ITALIANS Sheila Wheeldon Laybourn; Thomas Laybourn; email to Ms Whinfield? Yours Dear Paul, I am an elderly MA Susan Laybourn; Susanna Elliott; faithfully. student at University PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: and Robert Elliott. They may have David Bolton researching Italian immigration The history of the Grammar been buried in St Michael's into the North East as little has School has been researched and Churchyard and Houghton Hillside been written about them. I am is due to go on to the Houghton Cemetery. Keep reading for more really impressed with your site and Heritage Society website in the Family Tree Quests only in the Barbara Metcalfe Houghtonian interested in obtaining the book coming weeks, once the book has New Zealand andWith DVD thatthanks go along to with Lena it. I been Inch laid out. for sharing these photographs and many more. would love to be

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

HOUGHTON HERITAGE SOCIETY is carrying out a survey about the Houghton Feast Opening Ceremony, which traditionally takes place on the Friday before Feast Sunday. In 1987 the first PERHAPS ONE OF Houghton’s oldest pubs and situated just at Military Tattoo took place and featured the the bottom of Sunderland Street, the Golden Lion has served a Light Infantry Band, North East Pipe Bands, central focus in the lives of all those that have drank in there. Once a coaching inn, the building dates as far back as 1824 South Shields Sea Cadets Band, (record-wise), however it is certainly much older than that. Colliery Welfare Band and the Claire This year the Golden Lion sees barmaid Jean Holland McKenzie Dancers. Over the years, celebrating 30 glorious years behind the bar. Jean has stood Houghton Pipe Band had a growing behind the bar since the summer of 1982 and is now a part of presence in the Tattoo, which always the fixtures and fittings! She has seen many faces in her time while pulling the pumps. But never have the words “Hiya love, concluded with the playing of the Last Post what can I get ya?” been more aptly spoken to a thirsty man. and illumination of Houghton's Cenotaph. Jean always has a smile upon her face, it is the warmth of that The last Tattoo took place in 2002 and was smile that makes you feel welcome and right at home when subsequently replaced with a lantern parade sitting in the lounge bar. I was in there last year with local historian Paul Lanagan and Peter Corfield, having a drink and other forms of entertainment. during the Houghton Feast week, but Paul being Paul he burst out and asked for a photograph of her. I won’t repeat her reply The 10 quick questions can be found at: but it was funny. The lads thought it was funnier when I just strolled up to the bar and politely asked if I could have a picture http://kwiksurveys.com/?s=MNKHOG_4802da84 of her for something we were doing…and with no more

questions I got it! I believe the words “you jammy git” were uttered from Paul’s mouth!

“Ladies and gentlemen, the I am pretty unanimous in this and I speak for all those that have been served by Jean, we look forward to another 30 years! You are pipes and drums…” a star and a pleasure to speak to. D.W.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Can you help solve these Genealogical & Heritage Quests?

NEWBOTTLE COULSONS yard at Hillside Cemetery has am assuming these three children POTTERY YARD Hello Paul, I must start with a great Coulson in the name register. How died in early childhood as they Hello Paul, Just a quick mail to thank you for all your effort. Hope do I get any information on the don't appear on any of the Census say I'm really enjoying your you can help me with some photos Coulson on the named list? The but are known in family lore. No website. I've been researching my that I have. The writing on the back above information that I have was names unfortunately. What I am Minto/Blenkinsop ancestors and it may not be true. One is of a farm mailed to me by my uncle who I interested in is if you have any was great to be able to read about with the person in it called Francis never met. He has a 2 daughters; burial records of three children of the streets/pubs they lived in. and says the farm was sold in 1940 one has a lot of information but Isaac Spence Richardson and his Quite a few of them get after 75 year of Coulson working it. hand written. She lives in Scotland wife Agnes Richardson (nee mentioned in the London Gazette The next one is of Wilfred ploughing and I must get to see if I ever get to Vance)? I have data on Elizabeth for bankruptcy - including my behind the Children’s Hospital don’t come to England. The names of Richardson died Apr-Jun, 1875 great great grandfather, Edward know the date. The next one is at the the Coulson are: Margaret may (Houghton Le Sring 10a 301) Minto, who was apparently a front of New Bottle farm with Uncle have married Richard Coulson aged 6 years; and Elizabeth saddler in Pottery Yard. Thanks Fred on the horse and Uncle Jack on around 1775; George William Richardson died (Apr-Jun) 1874 again! the cart unknown date. The last is Coulson husband of Mary married (Houghton Le Spring 10a 321) Anne Thompson Melo Sunny Side Farm (Robbie and Arthur, around 1822; another Richard who aged 6 years. Either of these two grandfather’s brother and son). My also married a Margaret around fit the time, etc of one child but father came to Australia in 1927 to 1813; Mary Ann who may have which, if either, is my problem? THE ONLY WOMAN… work in the railways; he used to work married Joseph Coulson around With regards the other two Hello Houghton Heritage Society, in the signal box in Newcastle on 1865 (may be a second wife to him children I have no idea! Is it I've been trying to find out about Tyne. He returned to England in and may have been a second possible that you have a burial my great great grandmother 1929 to get my mother. She had 4 cousin); and there is a Mary married record or grave Monumental Esther Jane Mole/Rudkin/Urwin's sons and 1 daughter who died in a George Coulson around 1822. Inscription that may help me clear suffragette and political history. 1940. The back of the Newbottle Thanks again you have stirred up up part or all of my query? She was the first lady treasurer of Farm photo says that the farm was in thing that I should have followed up Margaret Jane Richardson (born Eppleton or , and I the Coulson name for 75 years, so a long time ago! 16 June 1856), probably married have come across a picture of her that means that Jacob and Isabella Brian Coulson one of five persons; James Hardy on a march in the 1950s, she was Coulson (1865) were probably the Kelmscott 1881 (Chester Le Street), Thomas the only woman allowed on a original owners. Jacob Coulson was Western Australia Liddel 1881 (Chester Le Street), march with the miners when she the owner of Newbottle farm with his or Abraham Hoy 1873, John was a suffragette I think, but wife Margaret Thompson Pickett (nee Mitchinson Thompson 1873 or there's just no mention of her (it's William Gildroy 1875, all later Dagg) (1902). Jacob, my ALL ABOARD! driving me crazy, 3 years I've been three of Houghton Le Spring. grandfather, died at the age of 45 We have just been reminiscing looking!). Do you have any ideas Rather than send away for five years. The Farm, as the story goes, about the old Glendale Club trips to where to look or who to contact marriage certificates I'm hoping was occupied by the house keeper the seaside, when we were kids. that's local to Houghton please? you may be able to reduce the [Francis Lishaman] to her death, then How excited we were. How long a Your thoughts would be much odds for me? I look forward to it was sold (1940) and the grand pound lasted, enjoying setting up appreciated. My father always hearing from you. children were provided in the Will by the tents in a circle on the wet told me it was the March passing the next generation. My sand, and enjoying our seaside Gordon Stevenson but the only woman on that one father was from Jarrah (that is the sandwiches even though you New Zealand was Ellen Wilkinson so it's way we spell it out here); his name crunched on the sand that the gale probably not my grandmother. I was William Ingram Coulson and wife force wind had blown your way! think it may have been miners Janet Kerr (nee Millar). He passed Spending the afternoon at the fair, NEWTOWN SCHOOL who worked at Easington Colliery, away at 59 years when I was 18year overdosing on everything sweet and Dear Paul, thank you for the or Eppleton Colliery if there was old. I have another photo of my sickly, packing up windblown and photograph of the little school in one? She was involved in politics grandfather (I think) at a grave that I tired, enjoying our exotic trip to the Market Place. I can no longer until her death in 1977 so was told to be his father Joseph , South Shields etc, like we remember the date of the photo hopefully somebody remembers Coulson (1865). Thanks for the had been far far away! Happy days! but I know I did ask my sister her, though it's a long shot! information on Sunniside Farm. I about it and she seemed to think Rachel Rudkin looked up your link to see maybe a Sandra Lavelle that both she and my late brother crescent went near the farm. It is a had both left for the Junior shame that the old houses and School by the time this was taken. THE WHEATLEYS streets are knocked down. We have THE RICHARDSONS I certainly don't recognise anyone Love the article on the family! the same over here as we are a young Sir/Madam, I am researching my on it other than Miss Kirtley who I Was just asking my Dad all about city and in the name of progress they Great Grandparents family history absolutely adored as a child, no the family on Christmas day! Will are knocked over. Our port city of and have come across Houghton- other teacher from thereon ever pass the article round for Fremantle is totally different - no Le-Spring as a place they lived in sometime between 1861 census lived up to her standards! Thanks everyone to see! Cheers! buildings are knocked over! The very much, it's lovely to have a facades are in keeping and new ones and the 1891 census. I am having David Wheatley problems locating and identifying good copy of this photo, even it I Houghton-le-Spring built behind. The University of Notre don't recognise any of the three children; Elizabeth Richardson Dane have taken over the city so it children. Regards. has become a large campus. I have who was born 29 May 1869 at * * * * * * * * * * * Rainton Gate, Sacriston, Durham, Lorna MacKenzie looked up Houghton previously and Isle of Skye have seen the Parish Church you and two other children who were definitely born alive but have no Keep reading for more mention in Houghton. The grave Family Tree Quests. yard at Hillside Cemetery has dates between 1854 and 1881. I Coulson in the name register. How am assuming these three children do I get any information on the died in early childhood as they don't Coulson on the named list? appear on any of the Census but are known in family lore. No names unfortunately. What I am interested THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

REF NO: HLS1854161420

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Can you help solve these Genealogical & Heritage Quests?

THE CHARLTONS A RESPONSE OLD HAUNTS THE BURDIS QUEST Hi, I am from Tiffin, Ohio, USA. I am To Whom it May Concern, I am Hi Paul, Many thanks for putting Hello, A quest in the looking for information on my currently researching family history the Grammar School photos Houghtonian Vol 1 Issue 2 (March husband’s family. We know his 4th and searched a member of the online. The picture on the left I 2011) drew my attention. Mrs K. great grandfather came from Durham family, Margaret Mawson into recognise no problem , but the Gillinder of Cambridge has England. His name was Mathew Google. It came up with the one on the right is puzzling; I can’t requested information about the Charlton and his wife was Mary Jane Houghtonian Vol 1 Issue 4 (Sept think which part of the school it "Burdass, Burdess, Burdis Kirtley. So I am looking for info on 2011) featuring information on was? If you come across any families. I have quite a bit of info. them plus George and Elizabeth those trying to find answers about more I would love to see them. on a branch of this family starting Johnson Charlton, then William and genealogical issues surrounding When I enquired about Burnside with Edmund Burdasse (Hexham Mary Roper Kirtley. If you have any Houghton-Le-Spring. A lady called School I was hoping you may 1600s) aka Edward Burdis and pictures of the stone and/or dates Flora Borgese has written that she have had some pictures of how it ending with Frank C. Burdis in that would be great! Any information is looking for information on her was rather than what it is today. I Newcastle (1966). The family at this point would be so helpful! great grandmother called Margaret have seen it but it’s changed a lot lived at various times in Thanks. Mawson. I believe that she is a since I was there (1971-75). I am Bellingham, Hexham and Elizabeth Charlton common ancestor of us as she is fifth generation of my family who Corbridge districts including Ohio, USA my 4th great grandmother. I would lived in Houghton (I now live in Belsay, Bolam, St. John Lee, be able to give her information Trimdon). My father, grandfather, subsequently moving to about the family of the man which great-grandfather lived in Newcastle and Gateshead. Could JOHN MICHAEL WALKER she married, William Edward Prospect Row – I don’t suppose you kindly forward this email to Paul, My name is Lynne Westlake and Husband. Kind regards. you have any pictures of Prospect Mrs. Gillinder? Many thanks in I found your site by looking for Jane Overton Row, which I understand was advance. Regards. Hougton Le Spring on Wikipedia. located near Kerr’s Garage Jane Burdis Recently I discovered that my great PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: bordering Grasswell? I'm great grandfather, John Michael Thank you, Jane. Your message annoyed with myself for not PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: Walker, was not an Irish Sea Captain has been passed on to Flora. taking pictures of the schools I Thank you, Jane. Your email has (as my aunt had insisted) but a grocer was at or the places I used to been forwarded. from the Trimdon/Wingate area. I see frequent when I was older i.e. the that he was born in Wingate in 1836. JOSEPH BLAND PEARSON world famous Birds Nest!! You He married Charlotte Bainbridge Hello Paul, Regarding Joseph's don’t realise how poignant these GILPIN'S RELATIVES (born Nov 12, 1842) in Apr of 1860. second name [article about Joseph places would become in later life. In going through the old books at Charlotte's father, James Bainbridge, Bland Pearson’s tragic death and Your web site on Houghton is the Kepier School, Houghton-le- was born in Houghton on March 12, subsequent burial at Hillside really interesting and extremely Spring, lately, I found a Cicero 1814. I am looking for any Cemetery], his Mother Anne Bland well put together. Well done on with the name "Arthurus Laton" information on the Walkers, married Robert Pearson hence the taking the time to do it! Best on the fly-leaf, together with an Bainbridges and the Sedgwicks as name Bland. I am his Great Great Wishes. autograph inscription in Latin, they are all my great great plus Granddaughter through his eldest Ian Coulson stating that the book belonged to ancestors. When I was looking at the son John Charles Pearson, who Trimdon Bernard Gilpin by the gift of grave site information, I noticed that also became a jeweller-pawnbroker, Co Durham Arthur Laton. One of the Gilpin Margaret and William Wigham were then to Thomas Pickering Pearson, books in Queen's College, Oxford, listed. My grandfather was John who went to South Africa with his bears the autograph of William Frederick Wigham born Nov 22, brother also named Joseph Bland DOWN HETTON WAY? Layton, an uncle of Gilpin's, as 1892 in Wakefield. Would he by any Pearson continuing the family Hi there - I have come across well as that of Gilpin himself. Can chance be related to the Wighams in business of pawnbroking. I have a your lovely website, whilst any of your readers give me the Houghton? In looking at a rather photo of a covered wagon researching my family tree. My 4 relationship between Gilpin and large scale map of your area, I see advertising Pearson Bros Jewellers x great grandparents (John and Arthur Laton? that many of the places I have listed & Pawnbrokers on its side. My Ann Thorrington) lived at Four R.W.R. as birth and death places are quite Father was William Henry Price Lane Ends, Houghton-le-Spring Northern notes and queries close together and therefore stand a Pearson. I found your article so in the 1841 Census, and although better chance of being the source of devoted to the antiquities of helpful with my family research as I haven't found a death record for , my ancestors. I realize that this is a well as being very interesting so for my 4xg grandfather his wife was Cumberland, Westmorland, large undertaking that you have that I thank you. I forgot to mention interred at St Nicholas 12 January shouldered and that you probably get that my grandparents settled in 1853. I have street Googled and and Durham : v.1, no.1-8, all sorts of these requests. But if you Australia in Toronto New South obviously that area does not exist Jan. 1906-Oct. 1907 were able to point me in the correct Wales.Australia. Regards. as it did in those days, but are direction on this, I would appreciate Clella (Pearson) Jennings there any old photographs or it. I live in a little town in SW Ontario sketches available before Four * * * * * * * * * * * called Palmerston. I thank you in PAUL LANAGAN REPLIED: Lane Ends was developed? I look advance for any help that you could Thank you, Clella. Joseph’s middle forward to your reply. Kind give me. name had always puzzled me and it regards. More Family Lynne Westlake was the reason I remembered his Shelagh Ashford Tree Quests in the next Palmerston name which I discovered how he SW Ontario had had his head severed in that issue of the tragic railway accident in 1897. HOUGHTONIAN!

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

ARTICLE BY DAMIEN WRIGHT HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING

SHENTON’S LEGACY 1919 saw Mr William Shenton become St Michael & All Angels ST MICHAEL & ALL Angels Church new organist after Mrs Adamson has had a tower for many years, left. This made way for a new however it is has not always been musical era to begin. He was the the tower that you and I see every first to perform Mendelssohn’s day while making our way to Hymn of Praise in 1920. Shenton Houghton town centre. Bernard also composed a number of works Gilpin had a tower but it was a spire including songs, anthems, chants, and nothing else. 1824 saw the music for both the piano and the spire removed to make way for the organ and a setting of the end of tower that is there today. It stands every service, from which the Amen at an impressive three stories high is still sung. Having a fairly large and 90 feet. This new installment choir called for a lot of rehearsing, made for a greater number of bells, especially on large events like now consisting of six small bells Christmas and Easter but none and two large bells. The full peal of more so than for the traditional eight bells was installed in 1928. Houghton Feast services. There Now the tower is used as a storage are very few pictures of both space for books and sheet music William and the choir together for the bell ringers. Oddly there is apart from on top of the bell tower no entrance for the tower from in roof and maybe in the church. the main building - you can only

get to it from the side of the church William retired at the great age of by walking around the back. 87 in February 1972 due to the antics of the young choristers and During the Great War all churches felt it was time he left after devoting with bell towers were forced to stop 53 years to the church. ringing out the bells. The only time they were allowed to ring the bells I recently went up into the bell in the towers was to notify the tower and got some great pictures; villagers of an invasion of the the view is stunning from the roof! country. It wasn't until the War had You can see as far as Durham, if ended that all churches were not further. Looking down to the allowed to ring out their bells. street below is amazing – it makes During this time more than one you think: ‘wow what a view’. You million horses went to war along can see all the shops and local with the men. Farmers often sold businesses on Newbottle Street, up them as the Army was paying good Sunderland Street, Church Street money. Sometimes they and beyond! sequestered the horse whether the owner liked it or not. Once the War The last place you would expect had ended bell ringers would ring graffiti to be is on the roof of the out their bells in joyfulness and bell tower but as the picture shows glee that the War was hereby a T. JONES left his mark in 1874. over… and perhaps hopeful that This may be from a child or even a some of the horse might return? grown man. There are dates and names upon the roof dating back as early as 1800, as it was not This year we have two very special uncommon for people to be on the reasons for ringing out our bells across the land. Of course many roof. of you will know that we have the DAMIEN WRIGHT Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics. Bell ringer groups will be gathering and practicing right up until the big days. Churches and public buildings that have flag poles will be flying their Union Flags at full mast. For three full minutes the bells will be ringing out across the land to show that we a proud of our Queen and country and of our athletes that will be participating in the summer games.

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

IN MEMORIAM The 128th Durham Miners Gala will be taking place th on Saturday July 14 2012 in Durham City.

Last year, in our report about the Big Meeting, we

MAURICE WALKER commented on how there 1938 - 2012 were so few people Maurice was a recognisable marching behind the friendly face from Houghton-le- Houghton banner Spring - he always had a smile compared to others. You and a wave for anybody. He died can help change this! Get peacefully, in hospital, on May 14th 2012, aged 74 years, after a yourself to Durham short illness, having lead a long Market Place nice and and happy life. Tributes were early and watch out for paid on the HHFB group by our favourite banner. several members: “He was Members of Houghton everybody's friend” “Bless him, RIP Houghton's son.” Heritage Society will in Durham from 7 o’clock.

To join the HH Group on Facebook simply search for HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING HERITAGE GROUP in the search box on Facebook! NOW ON KINDLE

OX ROASTING: The next issue of the will be A BEEF HISTORY HOUGHTONIAN available to download in September. Send us your www.amazon.co.uk details and get a copy sent directly to your Inbox!

THE HOUGHTONIAN | JUNE 2012 | VOL 2 ISSUE 2 | ISSN 1757-3890

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THE HOUGHTONIAN No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a mechanical retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, PUBLISHED BY BOOKS OF THE NORTH COPYRIGHT 2012 without written permission from the publisher. The publisher has made all reasonable efforts to © contact copyright holders for permission. Any errors that may have occurred are inadvertent and VOL 2 ISSUE 2 JUNE 2012 ISSN 1757-3890 anyone who for any reason has not been contacted is invited to write to the publisher so that a full acknowledgement may be made in subsequent editions of The Houghtonian. Articles and V002IS02VE02 information are presented in good faith, occasionally based on people's recollections and memories, which can be fallible. While every effort is made to ensure the content is accurate and up to date, some errors may exist, such is the nature of recording local history, therefore no responsibility can be held for any errors contained herein. Thanks are extended to the following supporters/contributors: Damien Wright, Dr Jack Morley; Jean Holland; S&D Leisure; Helen Murphy; Grangewood Care Home, Shiney Row; and as always, Penelope Wilton OBE, for being our Patron.