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LABURNUM HOUSE RAILWAY information on the building for the Poor Law Hospital Dear Houghton Heritage, Dear Houghton Heritage, at Cellar Hill which I believe that I discovered your After looking through your Just wondered if any of was a school at one time? excellent website. My website, I wondered if you your DVDs or books My daughter recently current request is in the could please offer any contain any photographs of rented the "Stables" on the hope that your burial information or point me in the Rainton to same development. I am record can add even more the right direction in coal railway particularly the more interested in the to the information I already locating information section from Rainton to history of the building in have on him. However, my regarding Laburnum House Copt Hill? Or, do you know the 19th century. As I said great-great-grandmother's Yard, Houghton Le Spring. where I could find out earlier my daughter rented precise origin is proving My grandfather recently about the railway line and the Stables for 6 months elusive to pin down. I passed away and I am now particularly some and in that time both she would be delighted to be trying to research his photographs? I was and her partner and guests put in contact with anyone childhood. So far I have brought up in Bradley experienced some very also researching the various discovered that he was Avenue just a few houses strange happenings. Robsons and Thorntons born in Laburnum House away from Ken Richardson. Les Golding around Houghton (even if Yard in 1926 then adopted Back in the 1960s to the they are not apparently my in 1933. Birth parents Mr rear of Bradley Ave in particular branches of the Joseph Watson (miner), Staffords Farm fields was a ROBERT LONSDALE families) so that we can Mrs Elizabeth Watson (died raised bank which was the ROBSON compare notes and confirm in childbirth). I am trying to remains of the Londonderry Dear Mr Lanagan, Born or correct traces as find out what Laburnum railway line which ran from and raised in , I appropriate, hopefully to House Yard was and the Rainton to Copt Hill and lived in Fencehouses for our mutual benefit. With involvement they had with then to Seaham. Thanks, the first 4 years of my thanks and regards. my grandfather, to then Derek Sharp married life until common Bill Woodward hopefully fill in the gap up sense (financial necessity Middlesbrough to the age of seven when really!) forced me he was adopted. I would be GEORGE OSWALD southwards, to live nearer MICHAEL DOYLE most grateful of any Re: The burial list, St my then work in Re: The plaques for information you may have. Michael and All Angels Middlesbrough. I was Chairmen of Houghton Many Thanks. Church, I am interested to therefore more than a little Urban District Council in Julie Whyatt know more about George pleased when starting the Old Rectory. I wonder Oswald who died 1836, research into my family whether the ???? for 1953 – Jane Oswald nee Fell, his history, to discover that my 1954 could have been Dear Julie, Thank you for wife, died 1842, children great-great-grandfather, Alderman Michael Doyle your email regarding William, George, Elizabeth, Robert Lonsdale Robson, (he of the Dubmire clock Laburnum House, Nesham John and any related earlier was Houghton born and and the nativity wood Place, Houghton-le-Spring. Oswalds. Father may be raised whilst his wife Mary carving at Durham You can see this house on John Oswald born 1707. (nee Thornton) was from Cathedral). I would have Google Maps. Note the Your Thomas Oswald may Newbottle. I have fairly thought that he had Laburnum tree growing in also be related. I look solidly tracked Robert from precedence over Donald the front garden! The forward to your advice. his birth and upbringing, Cockburn, English teacher Nesham Place house-by- Janet Caffin through his subsequent at the Grammar School house article is now on the nee Oswald moves around County and later head of Houghton Heritage Australia Durham with his own Spennymoor Grammar – website. I do hope it family, to his final death, you had to be a Labour proves useful. Kind CELLAR HILL aged 80, in the Houghton Party member to get that regards. Hi, I have joined this group Poor Law Institution sort of promotion). Paul Lanagan today and wondered if Hospital whilst resident in Regards anyone had any New . It was Barry Jones information on the buil through my Google search Hampshire for the Poor Law Hospital ding at Cellar Hill which I that I discovered your believe was a school at one excellent website. My UPDATED: 10/03/2012 time? My daughter recently current request is in the rented the "Stables" on the hope that your burial same development. record can add even more WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

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SOLDIER SOLDIER years old next Wednesday! was wondering if you are maternal great grandfather. Looking for information on His mother was Sarah able to provide me with Again, any info I do glean I the soldiers stationed in Nicholson nee Harrison information of any sort. shall pass on to you. Houghton during WWII. As (I’m pretty sure she is the Thank you very much, Thanks. one of them was my father daughter of Elizabeth M. Dickinson Adam Reavley from Oldham. He met my Harrison nee Skipsey) Dr mother Ivy Graham. Not Nicholson is related C OF E ALL ANGELS sure how long he was somewhere along the line THE WILD BOAR When did Houghton Parish stationed here and for what to Joseph Skipsey. His Dear Paul, I enjoyed Church become known as reason. Don't know the father was Frederick looking through the St Michael & All Angels? I regiment either. Nicholson who died in Houghton - le - Spring was baptised there in 1938 Lesley Clough WW1 in 1916. I have Heritage website. I lived in and have an old Church ordered your book via and knew magazine which states just FREDERICK CLARK Amazon as I thought it Houghton quite well, and I 'St Michaels'. Was the '& Having spent the last 12 would be a lovely birthday am now living in the USA All Angels' added on to months researching the present. It’s just gone so I suppose I got a touch distinguish it from the CLARK family, Grandad midnight and I’ve just of nostalgia there. Could Catholic Church? Clark just seemed to have remembered that he may you tell me, though, the Fred Inch vanished off the radar. have the original birth origin of that big hog or pig Houghton-le-Spring However after picking the certificate – I will check on your masthead. Thank brains of the few relatives later when I see him. Now you! I have checked my copies that are alive, we managed I’ve started I am intrigued Jamie Tubmen of the Church magazine to put together enough by his family tree and will Virginia, USA from 1884 and it is noted information with the attempt to find out more throughout as 'Houghton "ancestry sites". The and show him. He is totally THE WHEATLEYS Parish Church'. In the old outstanding missing pieces compos mentis, fit and What a fascinating site. directories, notably one were: what year did he die? healthy. Must be the Just been having a browse from 1827, it is stated that where did he die? where upbringing! Look forward around the site and came the Church is dedicated to was his grave? With the to seeing the book. Kind across a PDF on my 'St Michael'. The Catholic help of the Houghton regards. maternal relatives - the Church was built in 1837. It Heritage website we Kathryn Muir Wheatleys! My will be interesting to managed to put everything grandmother was Nora discover when the All together, and hopefully can Wheatley (born January Angels was added on! put a closure on it. We are PIT SHAFT 1920) and her sister was Paul Lanagan planning to visit Hillside Anyone know anything Eva... They was always Cemetery. Will his grave be about pit shaft right behind telling me about the factory CHURCH MAGAZINE marked or just a plot no? Beehive Pub. I remember a and the shed load of My name is Richard Thanking you in brick cap there in the 1960- relatives that I had! I'll show Chadwick and I have a anticipation, Sincerely, 1970s. It was same as the my mother and her sister 1944 St Michael’s All Jacqueline Pinkney one at Philly over road from the PDF and see what Angels magazine in good Scarborough the bus depot. more they can tell me! I'll reading order, would you Paul Sykes find out from my mother be interested? A CENTURION Fencehouses tonight about which Richard Chadwick Hi Paul, I wonder if you Wheatley they came from. could help me? I have been SCHOOL TIME I'm based in Sunderland as * * * * * * * * * * * searching your records for Hello. I am planning on that is where my the birth of Howard teaching my class of Year 3 Grandmother moved to Keep reading Nicholson. He said he was children about the land use when she married. I've been born in H-L-S. His date of of Penshaw during World told I have the "Wheatley for more Family birth is 1st Feb 1912. As War Two to link in with our look". I know that I do look Tree Quests. you can see he will be 100 Cross-curriculum topic. I similar to my years old next Wednesday! was wondering if you are aternal great grandfather. His mother was Sarah able to provide me with Again, any info I do glean I Nicholson nee Harrison information of any sort. shall pass on to you. UPDATED: 10/03/2012 (I’m pretty sure she is the Thank you very much, Thanks, daughter of Elizabeth M.Dickinson Adam Reavley Harrison nee Skipsey) Dr Penshaw WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

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PUBLICANS your excellent site & many MEMORIES OF HOME & MR JAMES JAMES & Hi, I have just been reading thanks for all the hard work MORE PUBLICANS FAMILY your excellent website re that must have gone into it. I just love this site. I grew Hello Paul, I am trying to my family history, in It must be of much interest up in Houghton and can trace living descendants of particular the pub lists. I both to locals & those trace my family in the area James James (my great am currently researching further afield (such as back to the 1700's. We great uncle) who was born the name 'Brownless' as myself) researching family lived in 3 Shakespeare in Somerset 1851 & his part of my ancestry in the history etc. Regards, Street from 1947 to 1957. sons who lived in Houghton Co. Durham area & found Linda Rowley My father worked at Le Spring & died in that one of the daughters of my Redcar Herrington Pit. In 1957 he area, Oliver James born 3x Great Grandparents became landlord of The 1877 & died 1961, Joseph (George & Mary Londonderry Arms in C James born 1887 & died Brownless), a Margaret and we lived 1948 plus possibly William Brownless married a John GEORGE STEPHENSON above the pub. My James born 1880 & died Fletcher. They had a THE SMITHY grandparents Luke and 1971. I was wondering if daughter named Mary who Any information concerning Sarah Robson (nee. you could point me in the married Thomas Rigby. In Elizabeth and Helen Fenton) were managers of right direction – I live near the 1891 census Margaret Matthews, thought to be the Dubmire Club from Carlisle. Many thanks. Fletcher (nee Brownless) is buried at Hillside Cemetery, 1918 to 1922. Luke died in Doug James widowed & living with her plus: George Stephenson, the Pensions War Hospital Near Carlisle married daughter at the the blacksmith, with a after WWI, from injuries he Lambton Arms, Newbottle smithy next to the bus had received, and his name Street, Houghton-le-Spring. depot in the centre of is on the Cenotaph in THOMAS WILLIAM Her son-in-law, Thomas Houghton, would be Houghton. My sister and I USHERWOOD ROBINSON Rigby, is listed as head of appreciated, as he was my went to St Michael's RC Anyone out there in HLS household & Licensed great uncle. School in the 1950's - Rita related to Thomas William Victualler of the Lambton Douglas Matthews and Maureen Robson. We Usherwood Robinson of the Arms. I noticed that Aberdeen both live in the south now, brewery? I am his GG grand Thomas Rigby's name is but Houghton will always daughter. Have a dead end not listed in the innkeepers be 'home'. on info about his father and names & wondered if you MEMORIES OF Maureen Brown mother George & Elizabeth. would be interested to SUNDERLAND STREET London I am the Great Grand- know this for your records. Re: The memories of daughter from his daughter Also, by the 1901 census Sunderland Street in the Elfrida who was from his Mary Rigby is widowed & last issue (Issue 03). The THE LINDENS, DAIRY second marriage to Isabella she is listed as Head of butchers shop was owned LANE Widowfield. household & Innkeeper of by Harry Harland. The Dear Paul, I am doing Dina Salter the Red Lion Inn, Church cobblers shop was Ron some research for a friend's Australia Street, Houghton-le-Spring. Waites and Jack Stewart. family tree. Can you tell The next house on the The Carmichael jewellers me whether Lyndhurst, in census is Rectory Lodge & was owned by a Mr & Mrs Houghton Le Spring was a then Houghton Rectory, Williams. residential or family home? * * * * * * * * * * * then Dairy Lane & 'Clergy Richard Rose I think the street name is House' [in 1948 made the Houghton-le-Spring Dairy or Daisy Street. The Rectory until 2005, now is period I am talking about is If you can Dairy Lane Dental 1951. Any help you can help, please get Practice]. As Mary's name give me would be most was also not on your lists, I welcome, thanks. in touch via the thought this little snippet Joan Elliott might be of interest to you. HH website. I shall continue reading

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MINING SPORTS little factual information So you can see that my Houghton-le-Spring and regarding Michael Cook, family has many links with place of residence as Hi Paul, My name is my Great-Great- Houghton and the Broadway House, Chester- Kimberley Dobson, I’m Grandfather. Using his surrounding area. le-Street. I believe I located currently compiling marriage of 1820, I Judith Cook Broadway House some evidence for a estimate he was born about Portsmouth time ago on North Road dissertation on the 1796, but not where. just off the roundabout at Michael Cook married A693. Is this correct? And sports which took Esther Sewell at St can anyone tell me if Heath place at Houghton Margaret’s Church, ALICE DIMAMBRO House was or is a hospital? Feast between 1890 Durham, 1820. They had Just had a browse through Thanks, and 1900 as part of a three sons, the youngest, your new magazine and Pamela Huddleston had to say well done, great wider study on mining Michael Cook, my Great- Honolulu, Hawaii Grandfather, was born job and look forward to sports and leisure. I forthcoming publications. November 21st 1829 at noticed that you have West Herrington. Very interesting to see the some excellent picture The next piece of evidence name A. Dimambro - ice MARKET PLACE of pamphlets and old is provided by Pigot’s cream sellers of the village. I am looking for pictures A coincidence I think, but I that contain (32 The photographs which Directory 1829 - 1830. Michael Cook is mentioned thought you might like to Market Place Houghton-le- would be excellent as ‘Baker & Flour Dealer, know that my Gt. spring ) I was born there in primary source Houghton’. I next find Grandmother was a former 1952 and lived in materials and I’m just Michael Cook and family in Stage Artiste/Singer & Houghton until 1966 in the wondering where I can the 1841 Census living at Concert Pianist. Her Stage last few years I have been Name was Alice looking for pictures and access these South Hetton. This is the last time I can verify his Dimambro. As a family we written material to show my materials? I have existence. In 1851 Esther have no idea why she gran-children. I can already got a couple of Cook is recorded as picked this name - perhaps remember getting in the your books which are ‘Widow’. I believe that she knew the Dimambro’s? way of the showmen setting really helpful, but If Michael Cook was a victim Her signature tune was up for Houghton feast and "The Roses of Picardy" a getting free rides before you can offer me any of the Cholera Outbreak that swept the Durham love song of WW1, written they opened to the public. advice or guidance it area around 1849 or by Fred E. Weatherley/ Ken Walker would be much thereabouts. If he was still music by Haydn Wood, appreciated, Best, living in the area I have no pub.1916. I'm searching Kim Dobson idea whether he would have for some of my ancestors who lived at "Scots Pasture" CANDY ROCK Houghton-le-Spring been buried locally, if so, My dad says they used to where? Or was it at St in the Houghton Le Spring area. Does anyone know of get mis-shaped rock lollies Michael’s, Houghton? His at Harvians, which was wife Esther Cook also died this area and if so can you THE COOKS give me a location of it Harvy and Ian Wheatley’s of Cholera in September sweet factory in Pottery Yesterday I logged on to 1854. She may have been please? Best regards and you site and came up with keep up all your great work. Yard, behind Jaconelli’s amongst the earliest burials sweet shop. Heritage photos. I was at Houghton Hillside Suzanne Tyson- delighted. On reading the Cemetery. If anyone can Jackie Pittilla Butterworth preview I see that you are a offer any help I would be local historian, so perhaps * * * * * * * * * * * most grateful. Also if there you can help me. I have are any living descendants HEATH HOUSE past links with Houghton- of Thomas Robinson, born If you can On a death certificate from le-Spring on both my 1799, died 1829. Thomas help, please get in paternal and maternal sides was married to Jane 1949 place of death is of the family. I have very Swinburn, born . shown as Heath House, touch!

Houghton-le-Spring and UPDATED: 10/03/2012 place of residence little factual information

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METHODISM IN STOCKSFIELD TCE THE SHEARERS because the trees are covering that area. I took a HOUGHTON Hi Paul, Margaret phoned My Grandfather John me and we had such a long Shearer (b. 1893) was living picture of my friend whilst Dear Mr Lanagan, my chat about our old home at we were further in the Ritchey family originated in at 13 William Street, Stocksfield Terrace! She Newtown, Houghton-le- cemetery and I noticed on and still lives in Houghton. I did the picture in the Northumberland with an Spring, according to the not know either her or her 1911 census. His brother background that it looks eventual concentration in family when I lived there like there is a person Houghton le Spring; my Robert was living with him - but we still exchanged lots he was killed during WWI standing with their back mother and Ruth Scott of tales of the area. towards us but with a light Ritchey were cousins and I and is listed the one on the Great bit of feedback from Cenotaph along with his purple hood up! We were referred to Ruth as my the site. Thank you. alone! We have been to great aunt. I just read your brother. I am sure that Betty Stevens John Shearer married, that cemetery loads of new addition to the website times even when it is dark around the time of the First about the time line of Derby and we have seen things Methodism in Houghton World War, to someone named Jane. I was told too - it’s pretty scary! We with great interest as my g. are very interested in the g. grandfather John Ritchey HETTON COLLIERY that he left her to go to war shortly after and that she supernatural do you know was a local Primitive DISASTER of any good ghost hunts to Methodist preacher in was pregnant. There is Dear sir/madam, I was another Shearer mentioned the public? Houghton. I was wondering if you could help Demi Pattinson particularly interested in the on the WW1 memorial - me. Hetton School is doing SHEARER B - and I would picture of "the young men a project to celebrate their of Mautland St Methodist like to know if he was centenary year and I was related at all. He is not on Church 1896" showing the wondering if you knew of WITH RESPECT old church with the original the list inside the Church - I have spent hundreds of any names of Hetton pupils any reason for this? Finally, doorway. Are there any who were involved in the hours alone at Houghton names attached to the my research has noted that Hillside Cemetery and have accident. We would really three Shearers were picture, as my hope would appreciate if you could e- even stayed overnight with be that one of my Ritchey inmates at the Workhouse. the Scouts for a wildlife mail me back if you find Edmund, Joseph and men might be there? Are out any information. Hope survey – but any visits to there any records that William James. What kind the Cemetery should be to hear from you soon. of circumstances would might be available that Yours sincerely, with respect and mindful force them to be interned that the site is a reference g. g. grandfather Chloe Mann John? I did find one in such a place? Looking consecrated burial ground. citation of John's work in a Hetton-le-Hole forward to hearing from Any activities not consistent book called 'Northern you. with this are not to be Primitive Methodism' by W. Mal Shearer encouraged. M. Patterson in which he SUTTON FAMILY Standish, Wigan Paul Lanagan lists John among some I’m looking for information others with substantial on the following SUTTONs, * * * * * * * * * * * respect "...while speaking of who may have been from HAUNTED HILLSIDE noble men...the good work the Houghton-le-Spring ? These done by John Ritchie area: Robert SUTTON, CEMETERY should not be forgotten". died 1841?, born 1790- Hello, My friend and I go up Family Tree Quests How wonderful that was!! 1796; Mary (Robinson?) to the Hillside Cemetery all and more can be Thank you ahead for SUTTON, born about the time and we do agree considering my request. 1806; Robert SUTTON that it is a peaceful place found in the Sincerely, born 1827, Many thanks. when you’re out in the HOUGHTONIAN open part of it. We have Kathleen Haak Lucia Menendez noticed how that changes MAGAZINE. U.S.A London when you go further in but I don’t know if that's just

UPDATED: 10/03/2012

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NORAH SMITH SOUTH BACK LANE TOON & COOPER MARGARET MAWSON I have been trying for a Hi, I hope you can help I'm looking for copies of I am looking for family long time and have spent me. My Great, great photos of my great info concerning Margaret too much money on grandfather was born in grandmother, Hannah Mawson, my great- Friends United without Newbottle in 1886. The Toon (nee Surtees) or grandmother, who was any help; I am trying to family name is Mosley any photos or documents born in Houghton-le- find where all birth and in the 1891 Census relating to her family. Spring in 1828. She certificates go. I've asked they are shown as living Hannah was born on 17 married William Father Gorman at the in South Back Lane July 1869 in South Husband, a tin plate Church but he says the (mother Pheobe Mosley), Hylton to Joseph Surtees worker from Middleton in Church doesn't keep then Newbottle. If you have and Hannah Blackett. Teesdale in 1851. They any more. My mother any information on my She married Edward went on to live in was Norah Smith and my family or perhaps a photo Toon, a locomotive Richmond, Yorkshire, dad was Jimmy Smith of of South Back Lane it stoker, at Penshaw Parish where she had 8 children. 33 School Road, East would be really Church on 7 September She died in 1907. Yours Rainton. There were appreciated. Kind 1890. They lived in the sincerely, seven of us. We all went regards Houghton area - Shiney Flora Borgese to St Michael's RC John Mosley Row and West School. Most of the Herrington. She lived at 8 * * * * * * * * * * * family has died and I am George Street East, New THE NAG’S HEAD 80 on the 29th of June, A bumper selection of Herrington from about Hi Paul, I have recently so not much time left! I Family Tree Quests can be 1895 until her death on come across the Banns have heard that my found inside the 13 October 1922. Any of my 5xGtGrandparents mother's father was from HOUGHTONIAN information will be marriage in 1762. Newcastle, Tipperary, MAGAZINE online at: gratefully received. I'm George Addamson www.houghtonlespring.org.uk Ireland. I wish I could also trying to get a photo (Adamson) of Nags Head * * * * * * * * * * * find my mother's birth of my grandfather August P of Houghton le Spring. certificate; she was born AT A JUNCTION William Cooper's grave. Isabella Sidgwick of Low 1902, possibly Hello, Not sure of you He's most likely buried in Pitt Houses in this P . Her father can help me. I’m busy Houghton General The record then was Tommy Gallagher. building Family Trees etc Cemetery (after WW1 he continues: “I found out Thank you. and one branch of my was the cemetery afterwards that ye parties Ann Swain family says they are from superintendent there). He were both servants at Darlington “Junction Row, would have been buried Naggs Head in ye P of Newbottle” – I’ve tried to in the first week of March, Houghton" Can you tell WRONG COUNTY? find this on the map 1980. I'd love to get a me anything about the I have Thomas, son of using Google Maps but photo of the grave Naggs Head? Isabella Joseph and Annie have drawn a blank – I’m marker, but any help, Adamson died in Torrish (Makepeace) Liddle died assuming that this ‘Row’ even if it's just to confirm Lane 21/8/1802. I would in CAN. Notes say they no longer exists. Can you that he is buried there, expect it to have been were from shed any light on this for would be greatly demolished and replaced Northumberland. Can me – I’m looking for any appreciated. but does it, by any you fill me in on the old pictures which might Ian Brett Cooper chance, still exist? families I see in your show this particular area. Maryland, U.S.A Thanks! cemetery records? Sincere thanks. Judith in John & Denise Allis Rob Leach Damp Gloucestershire Northamptonshire

UPDATED: 10/03/2012

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IF YOU CAN THE PICKERINGS HOUGHTON - LE - LAMBTONS & ELLWOOD I am researching the Pickering SPRING WORKHOUSE Found you on the Net and HELP WITH ANY OF somebody mentioned your name family, most of whom, as far back My name is Sally Brooman and I THESE QUESTS while I was in Houghton. as I have gone, are from Chester-le- am currently looking into my Information required on the PLEASE CONTACT Street in Durham. I don't know how paternal grandmother's family - her following names: William Lambton far Chester-le-Street is from name was Esther Isobel Pattinson PAUL LANAGAN VIA born 1837; Joseph Lambton; John Houghton-on-Spring, or if the Calvert. She was born in 1913 on Ellwood born 1815; Isabella THE HH WEBSITE. names are relevant. I have: three Dec 2nd, her mother is listed as William Pickerings, one born about Ellwood born 1850; and Hannah Sarah Ellen Calvert and father 1772, wife Ann (Humble) born Ellwood born 1826. COLLING & THWAITES unknown. On her birth certificate 1776 - she could also be one of the she was born at 8 William Street, Wendy Haylock I am interested in: Jane Ann Pickerings - another William, Houghton. Sarah Ellen Calvert is Thwaites died 1838; Isabella born in 1805, married to Elizabeth listed on the birth certificate as a Australia Colling died 1859; Matthew (Dixon, or Dickson) - she could also domestic/servant general and the be one of the Elizabeth Pickerings birth was registered by R Harrison, Colling died 1858; Matthew and another William, born in 1868 occupier, who from the 1911 WILLIAM HOLMES OF Colling died 1854; John (but I don't think he's from my census I can see was master of the Colling born 1850 died direct line). I believe the men were workhouse, 8 William Street. Are NEWBOTTLE 1866; William Colling born masons (I suppose that means there any records pertaining to Hello Paul, I am trying to trace from builders?). 1808 died 1880; William Sarah Ellen Calvert or her daughter family tree, which is a little difficult Shirley Bulley Esther at the workhouse? Did from the other side of the world. I Colling born 1818 died Australia Robert Harrison live there or have have though managed to trace I 1880; Mary Colling (Wilson) another residence where Sarah may think my ancestors back to born 1815 died 1893; Mary CARR THE have worked? Was the workhouse Houghton Le Spring. My 4th great Colling born 1819 died STONEMASONS also a hospital? Also I am interested grandfather William Holmes born in in the names Robert Smith and 1755 in Houghton Le Spring and 1884; Peter Colling born All sides of my family come from Elizabeth Smith who are listed as was married to Elizabeth Robson Durham - Houghton, , 1804 died 1888; Jane being inmates or staff at the born 1759 also from Houghton Le Silksworth, Pittington - so we are Hannah Thwaites died 1860; workhouse. Sarah Ellen went to live Spring. The family seemed to live up there often, looking in the with a Robert Smith, her uncle, in also around Newbottle and Emma Thwaites died 1861; churchyards for THOMPSON, 1891 (in Houghton) and his wife . My great Catherine Atkinson Thwaites GALLOWAY, CURRY and now I'm was called Elizabeth. I have great grandfather John Holmes doing my Grandmother, Mary born 1862 died 1867; thoroughly enjoyed finding out came to Australia in 1850 along CARR from the Houghton area. My Joseph Thwaites born 1815 about Houghton-le-spring, as my with 2 of his brothers and their particular interest in her family is father did not grow up there and I wives, then onto New Zealand in died 1897; Charles Thwaites the fact that they were have never been. I am hoping you 1854. I am writing to see if you born 1874 died 1875; Jane stonemasons in Houghton. I would will be able to answer some of my have any information of the above imagine stonemasons would be Thwaites born 1833 died questions. Thank you in advance family. I would appreciate what ever quite well known. I was wondering if 1875; and Joseph Thwaites information you have. Many thanks. you think that they might have Sally Brooman born 1850. made some of the gravestones in Bronwen Inness Miss Kirstie Franklin the old cemeteries? My research so New Zealand far: Mary Carr (1886) married DOCTOR ANDERSON Lincolnshire Robert Thompson (1884) of Any information about Dr Ralph Ryhope. Her parents were: John & Robert Anderson, of Market Place, Elizabeth Carr (both 1841). He was BONE & RICHARDSON Houghton-le-Spring, circa 1851 JOHN J. HENDERSON a coal miner. Her grandparents I am interested in: Andrew and 1855, plus his wife Jane Ann were: William (1813 - 1886) and Hi, I'm searching for my Anderson, nee Bell. Bone died 25/05/1844 aged Mary Carr (1813). He was a grandfather's brother, John James 28 years; Elizabeth Bone nee stonemason. Her great- Michael Shovlin Henderson, born February 9th 1883 in Houghton-le-Spring. I Richardson died in Grandparents were: Anthony (1791) and Mary Carr (1796). Again, he would like to discover his baptism Houghton-le-Spring on records and if he possibly died in was a stonemason. Trawling your website for 24/06/1848 aged 30 years; Judy Galloway the same place. I think his wife's information about the Andersons, I name is Euphemia Marshall Thomas Richardson father of East Yorkshire came across the enquiry (above). I Elizabeth; John Bone a tailor McDonald and I think his mother's don't of course know when the name was Christina McLean. Any who lived in Newbottle Lane THE WHITEs OF enquiry was made, and it may be info would be helpful.Thanks, in 1861. He was born on out of date, but I have information HOUGHTON-LE- about Dr Anderson in my family Lorraine Starnes 12/09/1813 and died on SPRING tree, and his family, if the enquirer British Columbia Canada 22/01/1892. I am interested in: Jane White born is interested. I am happy for him to Mrs Valerie Morgan 1869; Elizabeth White born 1819; be put directly in touch with me. Leigh-on-Sea and Elizabeth White born 1849. Revd Wendy Aird Mrs S. White

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SHORTS FROM JOSEPH CHIVERS JACQUES THE HOUGHTON-LE- ROBBINS HUBERT NICLOUX WORKHOUSE SPRING I was wondering if you have Any information on I wonder if you can help me Any information on the any details of an accident Jacques Hubert NICLOUX please. My mother always following individuals greatly that happened in the would be much said her father died in the appreciated: mines, which involved a appreciated. In 1827, 'workhouse hospital'. He Juliana SHORT b.1781 Joseph Chivers Robbins of Jacques was an died on the 21st Jacob SHORT b.1755 1 Dickens Street, ironmonger and toy September 1934 and his Jacob SHORT b.1775 Houghton le Spring? It warehouse owner on death certificate says Mars SHORT nee states on his death Sunderland Street, 'Heath House, Houghton le RICHARDSON b. abt. 1756 certificate that he was hit by Houghton-le-Spring. Spring UD'. Was Heath Jane SHORT b. abt. 1813 falling stone on 23rd May R.I. Jackson House a workhouse at the William SHORT b.1809 1924; Joseph was an time? I can't find his name overman, he died 19th Feb J.Robinson - JAMES GOUNDRY - listed 1934, his death apparently on the website. Any accelerated by the accident FIT AS A information you can give all those years earlier. Any BUTCHER'S DOG would be very much JOSEPH HOWE'S info most welcome. During the late 1800s/ early appreciated. It's ironic that FATHER Margaret Robbins 1900s my great his father died in the Union grandfather Jacob Robert MURDERED? Workhouse at Bishop Gibson owned a butcher's Auckland. It's possible that I am trying to find the shop at no. 22 Sunderland record of my great-great- my grandfather was not an Street, his brother actual 'inmate' because his great-grandfather. I know SUNNISIDE Frederick was a tailor at no. that his son, Joseph Howe, death certificate did have FOOTBALL 21 and brother-in-law an address of 7 Sparks was born in Houghton Le Thomas Harland was Spring in March of 1844. TEAM Cottages, Chester Le another butcher at no.38. Street. I think he died of We have been unable to Hi, We are looking for a Apparently no 22 became a Huntington's Disease, find any record of his photograph from pub some time after my although it was obviously parents. Family legend says Houghton of the Sunniside great grandmother died in not shown as such back that Joseph's father may football team, but I’m not 1937. If anyone has any then. This would have have been murdered, but sure of the year; I have information, reminiscences needed hospitalisation the case was never solved. once saw a old photograph or even photos I would love towards the end. There If you could be of service, it in the old Houghton library to hear from them. was an inquest held on the would be greatly which was based in Allison Wright 24 September 1924 and appreciated! Mautland Square it was a Ashbourne his early death (44) was local photographer who Becky Rosenhan directly attributed to his war was doing the show. At the Saratoga Springs, service (shell shock). I time I was only small (age Utah, USA would like to trace who 14) and now my Uncle and MOSES & lived at 7 Sparks Cottages I are trying to find all MEGGISON because I believe they were photographs were possible I am interested in the some kind of relative he of family members. Your THE BANKS following names: Solomon was staying with. This website has been a great FAMILY Moses; Ralph Meggeson would probably need a benefit to us and would be Any information on Snr; Ralph Meggeson Jnr; personal visit to Durham grateful if you are aware of Thomas BANKS or other Isaac Moses; Thomas though. Once again, any such photographs. BANKS who may have Moses; George Moses; thanks for your help. Regards, been buried in Houghton- John Moses; James Moses; Thanks and Regards. le-Spring. Diane Hopkinson & and Lively Moses. Thank Joan Newbold P.Banks Robert Davison you. Northumberland Christine Moses

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THE BENEFIT SHOE HOUGHTON Blyth is listed as a laborer and a farmer in the Census. WORKHOUSE SHOP ANCESTORS Ann died there in 1880 and Dear Paul, I have received a Paul, Been reading your Hello from Northbrook, Blyth died in 1883. His will copy of the birth certificate site again about the shops Illinois, Am interested in was probated in 1883. of a George DAVISON Jan in Newbottle Street, and I finding out how to get Judy Hughes 1912, and a copy of a seem to remember that photos of gravestones,

Certified copy of an entry of there was a Benefit shoe copies of wills and land Northbrook, Illinois birth for the purposes of shop there for many years. records for my ancestors the Factory and Workhouse Have you any record of who lived in Houghton Le Act, 1901, for any purpose this? Regarding Booth and Spring for many GREY GRAY connected with the Bruce, I cannot remember generations. My brother GRANDFATHERS Employment in Labour or if it was Booth or Bruce the and I spent an afternoon in Researching my Gray/Grey Elementary Education of a father - probably Bruce, Houghton Le Spring a few grandfathers of Durham, Young Person. This copy who originally ran the shop, years ago and was Chillingham, Morpeth- shows George was born in built a large house delighted to have a picture wondering if you perhaps Houghton Workhouse. I [Melrose] next door where I in my mind of where they may have stumbled upon understand from your worked in Myre Hall. His lived and worked for history, cheers from U.S. website that you have two sons took over the generations. Unfortunately, managed to transcribe 4 of shop when he died. They at the time, could find little Lynne the 8 registers, which is a were aircraft enthusiasts online about the town. So fantastic feat in itself. As and actually built a light glad to find your website my George is not on the list aircraft in the basement tonight. I am the local MARGARET so far can you point me in below the shop. I don' historian for our DOWSON the right direction to find know if they ever got to fly community that was settled Hi. I am in Australia and out more about George it. Best regards. in the 1840s – a little more am related to Margaret and his mother Annie Tom Oliver than a decade before my Dowson, (died Sept 1841 DAVISON (although his ancestors left Houghton Le at about 90 years of age) birth certificate shows Spring. Am very that I see as listed, and mother as Ellen DAVISON, GEORGE LAING accomplished at locating also the Mould family - her so a bit confusing). Any records here and helping relative or daughter Ann advice is much Dear Paul. I noticed you people find what they need have listed a grave for a married John Mould - I am appreciated. Thanks. here but lost in Houghton interested in any George Laing. I have that le Spring. So, I am also Sarah name for the father of the information related to interested in purchasing a them. I don't know bride from the wedding book or two to give me a SWIFTS IN ISSUE certificate of his daughter whether I have the right better idea of the history church or not. Regards. 1 Cecily dated 11 December and a better feel for their Hello Paul, Regarding 1876. It’s a long shot but lives. My names of interest Sarah Russell family requests in the as they were Roman are: Gleghorn; Kirkley; previous issue about a Catholics but I have been Masterman; Blyth; and * * * * * * * * * * * unable to find him in any family SWIFT. Dunno if it’s Robson. Blyth Robson To place a anything new but in your census records. Cecily was (born 1805 in Houghton le list of residents of Heath born in Croag in Sligo but Spring) and his wife Ann request for help House there is listed an spent the rest of her life in Gleghorn were married in here – or to give Evelyn Gabrielle Mary Swift. Newbottle as her husband Houghton le Spring in There was a family called and the majority of her 1825. Their daughter help – get in touch Swift lived on the family were coal miners. Sarah Blyth Robson via the Houghton Best wishes from Western Racecourse Estate in the married James Masterman Heritage website. early Fifties. Keep up the Australia. Kirkley at Monk- good work. Eleanor Carney Wearmouth in 1855 and Harry Smith Western Australia left for America a few years

later. Blyth is listed as a UPDATED: 10/03/2012 laborer and a farmer in the Census. Ann died there in 1880 WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

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THE HOUGHTONIAN THE BURDASS THE HONEY RALPH HALL WOW well done! FAMILY FAMILY Dear Paul, I am writing Printing it out to enjoy Looking for information about Hi, Has anyone got any from Australia and am with a coffee - love the the following with the information on the doing family history genealogy requests BURDASS/BURDESS/BURDIS Honey family who lived research for my section Paul. surname: William Burdass; in the Houghton-le- husband, Andrew Unfortunately I’m not Elizabeth Burdess; William Spring, Fencehouses, Pearce. We have found living or teaching in the Burdess; Mary Burdess; Mary areas from links to Ralph Hall North East now but I Ann Burdis and Elizabeth the 1870's to 1930's? baptised 29th January would like to still receive Burdis. My great grandfather 1670, his father Ralph your info and pass this was George William and his son Ralph, on to my old students Mrs K. Gillinder Winter Honey who I baptised on 29th June from Houghton, many Cambridge believe was postmaster 1709 in Houghton-le- thanks again. at Fencehouses. I have Spring. His daughter Judith Richardson also found that Rebecca Margaret (bap 29th

TINDALES ET AL Honey & GWW Honey April 1734) married

Looking for information about are buried at Hillside William Johnson on ROTHSAY HOUSE the following Houghton Cemetery, but haven't 16th June 1759 and Has anyone ever heard people: Robert Tindale; found William Henry am wondering if you of a Rothsay House Esther, John and Isabella Honey (Rebecca's have any information Fence Houses? I have a Oliver; the Thurlaway family; husband) by looking at or photos of graves. marriage cert. of a and John, Sarah, and the Houghton website. Thank you for your relative who was married Margaret Robinson. These I've also found a photo time. at Newbottle church in people may have been buried of a football team from Samantha Pearce 1909 and his address is at Houghton Hillside the 1920's I should Hahndorf, S. given as Rothsay House Cemetery. think - vertical stripes on Australia Fence Houses. It has Alison Crawford the shirts and dark been suggested that at Surrey shorts. Any help will be that time Fence Houses most welcome had a railway station and WHERE WAS Pat Goodshipp the term 'Fence Houses' HANNAH WILLIAM HERON, Wiltshire could have covered a RICHARDSON large area. This thought CABINET MAKER is confirmed on the Any information on William BURIED? 1891 census, whereby HERON, a cabinet maker, and Does anybody know parts of Shiney Row etc. the following Herons: THE LAX FAMILY where Hannah Richardson was are given as Fence Margaret Heron x 2 ; Ann To Whom It May buried? She was born Houses. So Rothsay Heron; Ralph Heron; Thomas Concern, in around 1880 and House could be Heron; William Heron was the I am researching Lax’s died at Shiney Row in anywhere in the area. son of Ralph Heron and Ann and would like to obtain the 1960s and was His bride lived in Hammond who were married as much information as buried in Houghton-le- Philadelphia so it's in Sunderland in 1798. Thank possible about the Lax’s Spring after 1960. possible he lived you. buried at St. Michaels & somewhere between J.E. Muil, Cumbria All Angel Church. Thank Deborah Whinfield there and Fence you, Co Durham Houses. Any help would Randy Lax be appreciated. Memphis, Tennessee Dave Warne

UPDATED: 10/03/2012

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HAILING FROM MR SHENTON, GRAHAM’S GRAHAM’S DURHAM CHURCH STORES 1 STORES 2 My father's family hail from ORGANIST Good evening Paul from Hi Paul I have news about Co Durham. I had a great Good evening Paul, I have New Zealand! I visited Helen's family which I am aunt whose address was 21 just discovered your Houghton-le-Spring for the currently researching for Outram Street in amazing website! I was first time in May, hoping to my cousin. As Helen was Houghton-Le-Spring and particularly interested in the find long lost relatives of unhappy about not finding her name was Mrs Jenny photograph of the church my father – George any relations last year in the Williams nee Stewart. I was choir singing from the Graham (b Jan 1896) - Houghton area I think she in touch with her all tower top’. My great (grandson of the George will want to hear from me. through the fifties, when I grandfather (William Graham Ltd stores in Any chance you could was a little girl, until her Shenton) was the longest Fencehouses). release her email address death. She and her serving organist/ My grand-father was or forward mine, please? I husband did not have any choirmaster at St Michael’s Joseph Graham who ran see, like me, she is children. I am not actually from 1919 to his retirement the business in the 1900s elderly(ish). So hurry! Best very sure where it was in Feb 1972, after 53 years with his brothers and wishes. exactly that my father's service. I was wondering if family. My father emigrated Mike Roberts family originated from but it the choirmaster/conductor to N.Z in the late 1920s Shildon, Co Durham was the Sunderland- in the photograph was him. and I lost touch with the Durham area. My father's family after his sister (my I remember him well and, GRAHAM’S father was a John Smith, although the face is turned Auntie Milly) died. I know I which is not really very away from the camera, the had a cousin Joseph who STORES 3 helpful but my man in photograph does was a year younger than Hi Paul I am so excited to grandmother's name was seem to resemble him. Are me, (I was 79 last hear from you! I will look Margaret Purvis (Purves?) you able to confirm this? November) and I was forward to hearing from and she had a younger Many thanks. hoping I might find him or Mike and I thank you both sister, Mildred, who married any other family members- Hilary Thurlbeck for contacting me. Kindest George Richardson, from but no luck!! I was able to regards. North Yorkshire Sunderland. There was find the family home- Helen Cater possibly a brother as well Morton Grange, Chilton (Tom?). Margaret trained as Moor, and also graves in New Zealand a tailor at Binns in either COTTAGE HOMES the Burnmoor churchyard, Sunderland or Newcastle I am looking for any but would really have liked HIGH HAINING and John was a draper, I relation to Joseph Garibaldi to meet some living family FARM think, with the Coop. I am Thwaites, who was married if possible! I wonder if anyone knows just wondering if anyone to Susan Octavia Dazley. I wish I had known of your anything on the Rutter might have any memory of They had one daughter, site before I made my family from High Haining these people or know of Annie, who was brought up pilgrimage from the other Farm. George Rutter was any descendants. in the Cottage Homes, side of the world - I may born c1832 and a farmer in Gilliam McKim around 1911. She was have been able to find out 1911 and his wife Eliza there until she was old more information before born Seaham Harbour, enough to work. Does setting out! Durham. Any info helpful. anyone have any info at all? It would be wonderful if you TODNER OF H-L- or any of your readers Alison Susan was a long term S resident of Cherry Knowles. could put me in contact Hi Paul, I have just seen I need any info at all that with any existing family GILPIN ALE your web site. I am looking anyone may have. I am a members! Where can I purchase for any reference to the great-grandaughter and am Thank you - I do enjoy your Gilpin Ales? Would love to surname Todner. Regards, trying to complete my web site. try it...anyone help me....? Trisha Bell family tree. Helen Cater nee Graham John Reay New Zealand Germany Sue Miller via Facebook

UPDATED: 10/03/2012 WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

Can you help solve these Genealogical Quests, which are all centred around Houghton-le-Spring?

If so, get in touch via www.houghtonlespring.org.uk WALKERS ET AL and that you probably get teacher and lived in using the information for Paul, My name is Lynne all sorts of these Glasgow. Greta Stone a memorial. My query Westlake and I found requests. But if you were (my Gran) lived at Burns relates to John Cuthbert your site by looking for able to point me in the Avenue North and was DAVISON Jnr, son of Houghton Le Spring on correct direction on this, I married to Frank Bond Elizabeth and John Wikipedia. Recently I would appreciate it. I live who worked at Philli Yard Cuthbert Davison: discovered that my great in a little town in SW NCB; he was a volunteer (2) John Cuthbert great grandfather, John Ontario called fireman during WWII and DAVISON (Jnr) b. 1884, Michael Walker, was not Palmerston. I thank you was an usher at the Newbottle, Durham, UK. an Irish Sea Captain (as in advance for any help Courts for many years d. 15 Jun 1915, , my aunt had insisted) but that you could give me. when he retired. Ron UK. bur. Jarrow (tbc). a grocer from the Lynne Westlake Stone was in the RAF occ. Coal miner Trimdon/Wingate area. I Palmerston, S.W straight from school and stoneman (1911), fitter & see that he was born in Ontario rose to be a Group turner (1915). res. 1891, Wingate in 1836. He Captain, living in Philadelphia and Bunker married Charlotte Andover. These were all Hill, Newbottle, Co. Bainbridge (b. Nov 12, STEIN STONE the children of Conrad Durham, UK res. 1911, and Anna. My parents, Bunker Hill Fence 1842) in Apr of 1860. PORK BUTCHERS Charlotte's father, James Colin Bond and Maureen Houses, Houghton le My Dad’s grandparents, Bainbridge, was born in Bewley, now live in Spring, Co. Durham, UK. Conrad and Anna Houghton on March 12, Durham. My mother’s There is no record of his Steinbrenner, owned the 1814. I am looking for parents - Agnes worked grave at South butchers on Newbottle any information on the in munitions during the Tyneside... thus the Street in the early 1900's Walkers, Bainbridges and War and John (Jack) logical hope is that he but then they changed the Sedgwicks as they are Bewley worked on the was buried back in his their name to Stone after all my ancestors. When I farms at South Hetton home town of Houghton the First World War as was looking at the grave and was horsekeeper at le Spring.... and there is they were interned in site information, I noticed Eppleton Mine. They lived always the hope he had a Germany during the that Margaret and William at Sancroft Drive until the gravestone! I have length of the War (they Wigham were listed. My 1980's. looked at your website had gone for a holiday in grandfather was John Catherine Hall and you have a large 1914 just before war Frederick Wigham born number of DAVISON started and had to stay Nov 22, 1892 in burials...... thus I could until 1918). During the Wakefield. Would he by be in with a chance. War the premises were any chance be related to Hoping you can help, used for different things the Wighams in Best regards. but I can’t remember Houghton? In looking at ZEPPLIN AIR RAID Philip Strong what. When they returned a rather large scale map Dear Paul, I am Blue Mountains from the War the of your area, I see that attempting to track down NSW Australia butchers was in the many of the places I have the graves of 16 men * * * * * * * * * * * family until the 1960s, listed as birth and death who were killed in a which was run by Eric places are quite close Zeppelin raid on Palmers Stone. Renee Stone was together and therefore Engine Works at Jarrow Can you married and lived on stand a better chance of on 15 June 1915.... Wheeler Street. Eric lived help? If so, get in being the source of my hopefully the local above the shop then touch via the HH ancestors. I realize that people in Jarrow might Fairburn Avenue. this is a large undertaking think it worthwhile website! Maureen Stone was a that you have shouldered teacher and lived in

Glasgow. Greta Stone UPDATED: 10/03/2012 (my Gran) lived

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These Quests are added to every 12 weeks – please revisit soon, or check out the HOUGHTONIAN magazines on the Houghton Heritage website.

LAST UPDATED: 10/03/2011

UPDATED: 10/03/2012