The Three Mistresses of Insole Court

Version date: 10 April 2013 The Three Mistresses of Insole Court

Richard L. Ollerton

Mary Ann Jones Marian Louisa Eagle Jessy Ann David 1818-1882 1846-1937 1853-1938 1

Insole Court is an interesting Victorian pile set in picturesque grounds in Llandaff on the outskirts of Cardiff, Wales. It was built by coal owner and shipper James Harvey Insole (1821 Worcester-1901 Llandaff) on the proceeds of the Welsh coal mining business founded by his father George Insole (1790 Worcester1-1851 Cardiff) after the family moved to Cardiff in the late 1820s. Built in 1856-7, the Court was initially a relatively modest twin-gabled residence known as Ely Court.2 However, the building subsequently underwent various additions and transformations which reflected the growing affluence and aspirations of its owners. The Court was eventually acquired by the Cardiff Corporation in 1932 as part of the Insole Court from the garden (photo A Salisbury) development of the Cardiff orbital road system, although the Insoles continued to live there until 1938. Watson (1997) comments that ‘most of the ladies of the Insole family are shadowy characters owing to the lack of family records’. Recent research Three women presided over the Court during its eighty-one years as has revealed much about these women and events associated with their residence to the Insole family: lives. This article summarises what is currently known from primary evidence held on file, including parish and civil BMD records, wills and Mary Ann Jones/Insole (1818-1882), probate records, newspapers, passenger lists etc. Text in quotes is taken Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole/Aitchison (1846-1937) and directly from the relevant record. The following accounts involve a large Jessy Ann David/Insole (1853-1938). number of people, most may be found on the accompanying family trees.

Hopefully, the three Mistresses of Insole Court can now be seen more 1 Possibly born in nearby Wichenford and brought to Worcester for baptism. distinctly. 2 It was renamed ‘The Court’ after the 1906-9 renovations and was sold under that name in 1932. Although known locally as ‘Insole Court’ by the late 1930s, it was not until much later that this name became official. (While technically anachronistic, it is hoped some literary licence will be allowed for the title of this article.)

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882)

Mary Ann Jones (23 September 1818 – 4 May 1882) In June 1841 Mary Ann (22) was living in Bristol Road (probably Priory Cottage) with her mother Ann (~56) and siblings James (1817-1872, Mary Ann was born in Birmingham, the engraver; later also printer), John Jukes4 (1820-1895, law stationer; later third of six children and eldest daughter factor, saddler’s ironmonger and coal merchant), Thomas Webb (1822- of Thomas Jones (~1790 Birmingham- 1893, saddler’s ironmonger) and Sarah Lill[e]y5 (1824-1895). A seamstress 1844 Edgbaston) and his wife Ann Jukes 6 and two female servants were also living in the house. (~1785 Birmingham-1851 Edgbaston) who were married in St Martin Two and a half years later, on Thursday 28 December 1843, Mary Ann Birmingham on Christmas Day 1813. Jones (25) and James Harvey Insole (22) were married in the parish church, Mary Ann’s father was a Birmingham Edgbaston. Mary Ann was living in Edgbaston, James Harvey in St Mary’s, saddler’s ironmonger who, by at least Cardiff. The marriage register was witnessed by Mary Ann’s father Thomas 1828, was in partnership with James and sister Sarah Lilly. How did Mary Ann of Birmingham/Edgbaston and Harvey Insole’s great-uncle George Insole James Harvey of Worcester/Cardiff meet? James Harvey is likely to have (1764-1831). George lived in Bristol Road visited his great-uncle George in Birmingham with his father George Insole.7 Edgbaston and Mary Ann’s grandmother Did she meet her father’s business partner’s great-nephew while he was Mary Webb/Jones was his housekeeper before her death in 1830. visiting from Worcester as a young boy (two and a half years her junior)? Or did she see James Harvey at his great-uncle George’s funeral in 1831 while The Jones family lived in Cannon Street3 Birmingham from at least 1816. he was a school-boy? Or did Mary Ann meet James Harvey when he visited Mary Ann was baptized at St Martin’s Birmingham in October 1818. his uncle James Insole (who took over the Birmingham saddlers’ Between 1830 and 1835 the family moved to Priory Cottage, Bristol Road ironmonger business after 1831) as a young man? Any, or indeed all, of Edgbaston. The house was described (in 1844) as ‘very genteel’, these scenarios may have occurred. ‘comfortable and well fitted-up’, ‘consisting of entrance-hall, three parlours, six lodging-rooms, best and secondary kitchens, brewhouse, wine Just six months after Mary Ann was married, in July 1844, the family and beer cellars, Carriage-house, Stable, and all suitable Out-offices with suffered a shock with the death of Mary Ann’s father, aged 54.8 Mary Ann large Garden, walled around, in which is a commodious Green-house and an elegant Summer-arbour, and the ground in front is very ornamental’. 4 Middle name not surname, similarly for his brother Thomas Webb. 5 Spelt ‘Lilley’ in the baptismal register (possibly a family-related name as Jukes and In June 1837 Mary Ann’s eldest brother Frederick Watkin died at age 22 Webb) but ‘Lilly’ elsewhere. 6 ‘after a long illness’. Mary Ann’s father has not been found in the 1841 Census. 7 Great-uncle George Insole’s 1831 will and Death Duties file show there was a strong relationship between the two Georges. 8 So the death certificate but possibly in his 54th year. Occupation is given as factor 3 Probably where Mary Ann was born. but his will gives both saddler’s ironmonger and factor.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882) would probably have travelled from Cardiff back to Birmingham to mourn carpets, dining tables, bookcases, a grand piano-forte, maple and gold with the family.9 The death certificate indicates that Thomas committed framed prints etc. Mary Ann was left a share of the estate in her mother’s suicide ‘in a state of Insanity’ by hanging at Priory Cottage. The property will.14 was put up for sale in August 1844 and Thomas’ will left Mary Ann a share By July 1852 James Harvey’s address (and presumably that of Mary Ann and of the estate. [death duty file] family also) was ‘Old Penhill, Llandaff’. Between 1845 and 1847 Mary Ann and James Harvey had three children, James Walter (1845-1898), Mary Ann Lilly10 (1846-1917) and George In October 1853, Mary Ann (35) attended the wedding of James Harvey’s 11 sister Julia Ann Insole in Llandaff Cathedral. Mary Ann signed the marriage Frederick (1847-1917). All were baptized at St John’s, Cardiff while the family was living at Crockherbton,12 probably either with or next door to register as a witness. James Harvey’s parents. In 1855 the Insoles’ address was ‘Old Penhill, near Llandaff’.

Mary Ann’s father-in-law George Insole died on New Year’s Day 1851 in 1856-7 – James Harvey builds a modest residence known as Ely Court15 Crockherbton aged 60. The Insole family moved into Ely Court in 1857 and Mary Ann (28) became 13 By March 1851 Mary Ann (32) and James Harvey (29, ‘Coal Miner or the first Mistress of the Court. Merchant’) were living next door to James Harvey’s mother in Crockherbton. Mary Ann’s brother Thomas Webb was also visiting the In April 1861 Mary Ann (42) and James Harvey (39, ‘Colliery Proprietor’) Insoles in Cardiff at this time. The house was described (when sold in 1881) were living at Ely Court. Her sister Sarah Lilly was also with them but their as a ‘large and commodious Freehold Residence’. now teenage children were attending schools in England – Walter and Fred at Cheltenham, Mary Ann at Bath. Three female house servants were also In June of the same year Mary Ann’s mother Ann Jukes/Jones died at her living at Ely Court. home in Grey Place, Bristol Road Edgbaston aged 66, so Mary Ann would probably have again travelled to Birmingham for the funeral. The estate In September 1862 ‘Mr and Mrs JH Insole, Ely Court, Llandaff’ stayed at sale included a large amount of household furniture: beds, wardrobes, Queen’s Hotel, Llandudno.

Mary Ann’s son Fred completed his schooling at Cheltenham in June 1865. 9 Probably accompanied by James Harvey who was also an executor of the will. 10 Named after Mary Ann’s sister Sarah Lilly? 11 Named after Mary Ann’s brother Frederick Watkin and/or a reference to James 14 The will left £200 to the eldest son and the residue was to be divided between Harvey’s younger brother George Frederick who died in infancy? the other four children. Unfortunately, after the £200 was paid there was no 12 Then a fashionable area on the outskirts of Cardiff, now part of the central residue. shopping precinct. 15 Information about the house and its remodelling is based on John Isaacs’ 13 Mary Ann’s age is consistently reduced by one year in the 1851-81 Censuses. account of a talk given by Matthew Williams, Curator of Cardiff Castle.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882)

Mary Ann’s mother-in-law Mary Finch/Insole died at her home in transform the whole building’ Crockherbton in August 1866 aged 74. James Harvey retired from the coal business in 1875 aged 5419 and In May 1867 Mary Ann’s son Walter was married in St Stephen’s Church presumably spent more time at home working on the gardens or at the (parish of St Peter, United Church of England and Ireland), Dublin. James newly purchased 7,000 acre Luxborough estate in Somerset. Harvey attended the wedding and it is to be expected that Mary Ann accompanied him. Walter’s bride was Maria Georgina Lillie Eagle (~1847- Mary Ann’s sister-in-law, wife of her brother John Jukes Jones, died at 1901).16 Bangor in October 1875 aged 42.

‘Mr & Mrs Insole from Cardiff’17 stayed at The Langham Hotel, Portland ‘Mr & Mrs Walter Insole, Mr & Mrs Insole’ were invited to the opening of the Philharmonic Hall, St Mary Street, Cardiff in December 1877. Square, London in June 1870. Mary Ann (59) attended son Fred’s wedding to Jessy Ann David20 (1853- In April 1871 Mary Ann (52) was at ‘Ely Court House’. With her were James Harvey (49, ‘Colliery Owner’) and children Mary Ann (24) and Fred (23, 1938) in August 1878 in Llandaff Cathedral. Newspaper accounts described ‘Colliery Owner’). Her sister Sarah Lilly was visiting, as was family friend it as the ‘most fashionable and the gayest wedding which has occurred at 18 Llandaff for many years’. Mary Ann gave the couple a silver salver (along Charlotte Bradley. A cook, parlour maid and house maid were also 21 resident. Son Walter (25, ‘Annuitant’) was nearby with his wife Maria with James Harvey’s case of plate). ‘Mrs Carey’ (Marian) was also a guest. Georgina at Pencisley House. Fred and Jessy lived nearby at Fairwater House.

Later that April daughter Mary Ann Lilly (24) married George Richard In December of the same year ‘Mrs Insole of Ely Court’ contributed £1 to Burness (1835-1925, almost eleven years her senior) in Llandaff Cathedral. the ‘Ely Schools Christmas Tree’ fund. The Burnesses lived in London. Mary Ann’s four Burness grandchildren were born in London between May 22 In September 1871 the house surgeon of the Infirmary, Cardiff 1872 and January 1879. The happiness of this period would have been punctuated by grieving with Fred and Jessy Ann after their first child, a acknowledged (amongst others) a gift of fruit from ‘Mrs Insole, Llandaff’. daughter, was stillborn at Fairwater House in March 1879. Mary Ann’s brother James Jones died in Derby in August 1872 aged 54.

19 1873 – James Harvey commences Ely Court’s Gothic-style ‘rebuilding and According to an 1888 newspaper account, although full retirement probably came more gradually. redecorating scheme that was to last for much of the decade, and 20 Who was to be the last Mistress of Insole Court. 21 Marian would become the second Mistress of the Court. This wedding is the 16 Whose older sister would be the next Mistress of the Court. major documented event involving all three living Mistresses of the Court. 17 Probably JH & MA but possibly Walter and Maria Georgina. 22 Marian Lylie (1872-1956), Harriet Maud (1873-1959), George Walter Insole 18 The Bradley family had lived a few doors from the Insoles in Crockherbton. (1876-1935) and James Frederick William (1879-1925).

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882)

‘Mrs JH Insole’ contributed £1 to the 1879 ‘Ely Schools Christmas Tree’ The Court would be without a Mistress for eight years. fund. ‘Mrs W Insole’ and ‘Mrs F Insole’ contributed 10s and 5s respectively.

In April 1881 Mary Ann (62) and James Harvey (59, ‘Retired Colliery Owner’), Fred (33, ‘Colliery Owner) and wife Jessy Ann (27), and Mary Ann’s sister Sarah Lilly (56) were at Ely Court. Two housemaids, a kitchen maid and a lady’s maid were also present. Walter (36, ‘Colliery Prop[rieto]r’) and Maria Georgina were at Pencisley House along with her mother ‘Marian A Eagle’ and sister ‘Marian L Carey’. Mary Ann Lilly (34) and George Richard Burness (‘Export Coal Mer[cha]nt’) were in Kensington, London with three In loving memory of of their four children. Mary Ann the beloved wife of From April to June 188123 Mary Ann and James Harvey holidayed in Italy for James Harvey Insole of Ely Court in this Parish two months. Returning via Paris they purchased a number of antiques and th who died May 4 1882 artworks along the way. So He giveth His beloved sleep Psalm CXXVII In January 1882 the last of Mary Ann’s grandchildren to be born in her Also of the above named lifetime arrived, Fred’s daughter Jessie Gwendoline Mary (1882-1932). James Harvey Insole who died January 20th 1901 Two months later Mary Ann underwent a tracheotomy. She had suffered in His 80th year. from an enlarged thyroid for two years and had ulceration of the oesophagus and paralysis of the vocal chords. Mary Ann Jones/Insole died at her daughter’s residence at 21 Pembridge Square Kensington, London on 4 May 1882 aged 63.24 Her son-in-law was in attendance. Mary Ann was 25 buried at Llandaff (churchyard) on 10 May 1882.

In 1883 James Harvey erected a window in Llandaff Cathedral with the dedication ‘To the Glory of God and in loving memory of Mary Ann the beloved wife of James Harvey Insole Llandaff’.

23 Not 1880 as Watson (1997). 24 Age given as 62 on the death certificate. 25 She does not appear to have left a will.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882)

Marriage notice - Birmingham Gazette 1 January 1844

Baptism register - St Martin Birmingham October 1818

Death notice - The Times 6 May 1882

Marriage register (GRO) - St Bartholomew Edgbaston 1843

Death certificate - registered Kensington 6 May 1882

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann Jones (1818-1882)

Burial register - Llandaff Cathedral 1882

Monumental inscription detail - Llandaff Cathedral cemetery (photo R Ollerton)

Grave - Llandaff Cathedral cemetery (photo R Ollerton)

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Marian Louisa Eagle (6 April 1846 – 15 January 1937) Establishment (1770-1839 Dublin). An aunt immigrated to Tasmania in 1823 (1772-1832 Tasmania). Farther back, the Eagle family had been Marian was born in Dublin, the eldest of famers near Dublin for many generations. However, George’s father Eyre three daughters (and also a son) of Massy Eagle (~1773-1843 Dublin) was an Excise man (gauger) in Dublin and George Eagle (~180426-1858 Kingstown) his cousin was a Church of Ireland minister (1797- 1883 Dublin). and his wife Marian Annette27 (~1812 Cork-1886 Llandaff). Marian’s father Marion’s grandfather Eyre left her a part of his estate even though she was was a commercial agent and merchant born after his death. A court case over the interpretation of his will in Dublin, and he was the Insole’s involving Marian and a cousin versus her father and aunt was eventually agent.28 When Marian was born the resolved in Marian’s favour in 1862. family was living at ‘16 Sinnott-place’ In April 1863 ‘WG Eagle, Mrs Eagle, Miss Eagle’29 attended the Grand Dublin but moved to Apsley House, 79 Waterloo Road in about 1851. When Masonic Ball at the Rotunda, Dublin ‘in honour of the marriage of the Prince of Wales’. Marian was just 12 years old her father died at Kingstown, Co. Dublin in August 1858 aged 54. He was buried at On 4 May 1867 Marian Eagle (21) married widower and father of two Dr Mount Jerome Cemetery, South Dublin. Samuel Orby Carey (~27, surgeon) in St Stephen’s Church (parish of St The Eagle family had strong military, medical and migratory traditions. Peter, United Church of England and Ireland), Dublin. Marian was living at George Eagle’s grandfather was at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, then 21 Waterloo Road Dublin. The marriage register witnesses were probably her maternal uncle and her brother.30 In the same church just two weeks British Army apothecary and Regimental surgeon in North America in the 31 1760s including the Siege of Quebec, then a surgeon in Limerick (d. 1794 later Marian’s sister Maria Georgina Lillie (~1847-1901) married James 32 Limerick). One of George’s uncles was a British Army officer killed in the Walter Insole (1845-1898). As Marian and Samuel immigrated to South Australia in June, it is likely that Marian also attended her sister’s wedding, American Revolutionary War (d. 1776 New York), another was a British 33 Army brevet-major, Bengal Establishment (1764-1811 India), another as did James Harvey and (probably) Mary Ann Insole. immigrated to New York and fought in the War of 1812 as the major of an Irish brigade (1767-1851 New York), another was Staff Surgeon, Irish 29 Marian’s brother (William George who took over his father’s business), Marian’s widowed mother and probably Marian (being the eldest daughter). 26 Probably born in Rathfarnham, Co. Dublin. 30 ‘Robert Millner’ (1797-1882) and ‘W Geo Eagle’ ( -aft 1884). 27 Maiden name probably Millner. 31 Known as Lillie. 28 Certainly by April 1854 and possibly from much earlier. His son took over the 32 Marian’s other sister Elizabeth Maude Mary (b. October 1847) died before 1867. business sometime after 1858 and probably maintained the Insole connection. The 33 James Harvey and sons Walter and Fred had probably visited the Eagle family Insoles probably visited the Eagle family on various occasions over the years while previously at their home in Dublin while travelling on business – which is travelling on business in Ireland. presumably how Walter and Maria Georgina met.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

The Careys had settled in Ireland from England in the mid-17th century, chance of recovery will be lost’.37 Marian, her daughter and two step- their seat becoming Careysville, Cork. The youngest son of a Newport, Co. daughters were ‘temporarily provided for’, probably by living with her Tipperary doctor, Samuel (~21) had previously married the daughter of sister Maria Georgina (Insole) near Llandaff.38 Either the appeal was another medical man in Dublin in October 1861. Samuel graduated in successful or he received other support but Samuel remained in England. medicine from Trinity College Dublin and their daughter Clara Sophia Dr Samuel Orby Carey died at Weston-super-Mare in January 1877 aged 36. (~1863-1956) was born in Cork. The young family sailed from England in The death certificate indicates that Marian’s brother-in-law Walter Insole August 1863 and arrived in Adelaide, South Australia that November. was in attendance. Samuel was buried at Weston. Marian was 30 years old. Samuel set up his medical practice in Angaston, some 50 miles north-east of Adelaide. Sadly, Samuel’s wife died there in September 1865 aged 26, In August 1878 Walter Insole’s younger brother George Frederick (1847- 1917) married Jessy Ann David39 (1853-1938) in Llandaff Cathedral. ‘Mrs just three weeks after the birth of their second child, Anna Mabel (1865- 1942). Samuel sailed from Adelaide about four months later and had Carey’ gave Fred and Jessy ‘silver muffineers in case’ as a wedding present. probably returned to Ireland by the middle of 1866 where he married Marian’s mother ‘Mrs Eagle’ gave them a Venetian mirror. 34 Marian the next year. In April 1881 Marian (almost 35)40 and her mother were living with Maria Georgina and Walter Insole at Pencisley House, near Llandaff. Marian’s Marian and Samuel left Ireland in June 1867. Sailing from London per City of Adelaide in July, they arrived in Adelaide in October.35 Samuel set up his daughter Lylie Evelyn (12) was at school in Bristol and step-daughter Anna medical practice once again.36 Their daughter Lylie Evelyn (1868-1958) was Mabel (15) was at school in Buckinghamshire. born in Angaston the following May. Samuel’s health deteriorated and the Marian’s sister’s mother-in-law Mary Ann Insole died and was buried at family of five plus Samuel’s sister departed Adelaide for London per Darra Llandaff in May 1882 aged 63. Marian probably attended the funeral. in November 1872. By 1874 and living in Paddington, Samuel’s financial position had also deteriorated. An appeal was placed in the Lancet asking Marian’s step-daughter Clara Sophia Carey (19) married Henry George Hall for support for Samuel, afflicted by paralysis and ‘in humble lodgings, (~1842-1915, Surgeon-Major later Lt-Colonel in the India Medical Service, suffering both mentally and physically, and wholly dependent on charity’. some twenty-two years her senior) in Co. Galway in August 1882. Their son He wished to continue treatment for his condition in England rather than and two daughters were born in India from 1883 to 1886. The family had being forced to accept free-passage back to the colony where he felt ‘all returned to England by March 1901 when they were living in Gloucester. By

34 It seems that Samuel’s two daughters remained in South Australia with his sister 37 A correspondent to the Editor of a South Australian newspaper, commenting on Clara. the Lancet appeal, notes that ‘Mr Carey had one near relative at least in easy 35 A detailed newspaper account of the voyage was printed in the local newspaper circumstances’ – presumably the Insoles. with a description of an incident where Dr Carey’s medical skills were required. 38 Why this arrangement did not include Samuel is not known. 36 Announced in the local papers accompanied by a glowing testimonials from 39 Who was to be the last Mistress of Insole Court. colleagues in Dublin and passengers of the City of Adelaide. 40 Age given as 33 in the Census.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

April 1911 they were living in Topsham Devon. In October 1920 Clara Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey (44) and James Harvey Insole (‘Gentleman’, Sophia and her three adult children immigrated to South Africa. She died at twenty-five years her senior44) were married in London on Thursday 25 Maritzburg, Natal in August 1956. Her sister Anna Mabel married Trinity September 1890. Marian’s residence was given as 12 Park Place St James.45 College Dublin assistant registrar Charles Henry Miller (~1849-1923, sixteen The marriage witnesses were Alfred Savill (1829-1905),46 Marion Tennant years her senior) in Carnarvonshire in August 1888. They brought up their (1850-1930)47 and Marian’s daughter Lylie Evelyn Carey. The marriage two daughters, born 1890 and 1894, in Dublin where Anna Mabel died in made for some interesting family relationships between Marian, James April 1942. Harvey, Maria Georgina and Walter as Walter’s sister-in-law Marian, a year his junior, also became his step-mother. The wider family dynamics would In July 1885 ‘Carey Mrs and Miss’, ‘Insole Mr JW and Mrs; Insole Mr GF and also be affected. In 1890 James Harvey’s son Fred’s four children were aged Mrs’ were (among the many) guests at ‘Lord Windsor’s Party at Penarth’ to from one to eight and his last child would be born five years later. Living meet members of the British Medical Association. close by, it was Marian who would be the grandmother figure for these Marian’s mother Marian Annette Millner?/Eagle died at Pencisley in July children as they grew up. 41 1886 aged 74. She was buried in the Llandaff municipal cemetery. Marian, The April 1891 Census contains an intriguing reference to James Harvey. He still living at Pencisley, and was granted administration of her mother’s is the only person named at Chargot House in Luxborough Somerset estate 42 estate. purchased in 1875 upon his retirement. However, no details are given other In September 1889 ‘Mrs Walter Insole’ (Maria Georgina) and ‘Miss Carey’ than his name ‘J Hervey Insole’ (sic), and the house is also noted as being (Lylie Evelyn) attended the ‘Prize-giving’ at the National School.43 uninhabited. Sarah Lilly Jones and her niece were living at Ely Court (with three female domestic servants and a groom) but no mention of Marian (or ‘Carey, Mrs and Miss (Orby)’ (Marian and Lylie Evelyn) and ‘Insole, Mr W Maria Georgina and Walter) has been found in the Census.48 This and Mrs; Insole, Mr GF and Mrs’ (Walter, Maria Georgina, Fred and Jessy) combination of evidence suggests that Marian and James Harvey may have were invited to the Military Ball held in the Cardiff Town Hall in July 1890. been travelling, possibly abroad.

Over the years 1882 to 1890 widow Marian had continued to live at 44 Not forty-five as Watson (1997). Pencisley House with her sister and brother-in-law. They would have visited 45 James Harvey’s residence was given as 13 Brook St. and been visited by widowed James Harvey on numerous occasions. 46 Founder of Savills, estate agents. 47 Believed to be ‘Mrs Charles Tennant’ who appears with Marian in photographs at The Court in the late 1890s. Marian and Marion Hanson (1850-1930) had 41 Calculated from age given as 69 in April 1881, but one death notice gives 72 and probably first met in Adelaide. Marion’s mother died soon after Marion was born another 73. in London. Marion’s father immigrated to South Australia where he became Chief 42 £145 0s. 8d. Engineer. Her uncle became Chief Justice and Premier. Married in London in July 43 Llandaff Parochial, Parish and Diocesan Magazines (hereafter LM) transcribed by 1881, Marion was widowed just three months later and never remarried. V Cunningham (2010). 48 There were only two caretakers at Pencisley House.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

‘The Countess of Dunraven, Lady Windsor, Lady Spearman…’ and ‘Mrs ‘Mr Insole’ added a diamond and ruby ring and a cheque and ‘Mrs Insole’ Insole (Ely Court)’ gave a Military Ball held at the Cardiff Town Hall in May an ‘ivory etui’. Also present was a certain ‘Colonel Aitchison’. 1892 in honour of the officers of the Glamorganshire Militia. Marian’s step-grandson (Fred’s son) Alan Vyvyan Insole (1895-1964) was ‘Mrs Insole’ of Ely Court Llandaff wrote that she was ‘quite satisfied’ with born in February 1895 at Fairwater House. the [Ball] supper provided by Mr George of Cheltenham [and Cathays] on th The Corbyns made their home in Cheltenham. Over the next ten years Lylie the 10 [January] 1893. Evelyn made numerous trips to Ely Court.52 ‘Mrs Insole’ joined the Ladies’ Grand Council, Primrose League49 in May ‘Mrs Insole, Ely Court, Llandaff’ contributed foodstuffs towards the 1894 1893. Christmas dinner for Workhouse inmates. ‘The high sheriff’s ball, which is one of the most brilliant civic functions of In March 1895, as requested by the Bishop of Llandaff in lieu of wreaths the year in the county, was given on Tuesday [9 January 1894] in the Assembly rooms of the Cardiff Town-hall.’ Of ‘the élite of Cardiff and the being sent to the funeral of his wife, ‘Mr and Mrs Insole, Ely Court; Mr and surrounding district’, the newspaper account specifically mentions Lady Mrs Walter Insole, Pencisley; Mr and Mrs GF Insole, Fairwater House’ 50 51 contributed to the ‘mayor’s fund for the relief of the sick and suffering poor Hill, Mrs David of Llandaff, ‘Mrs Insole, of Llandaff, in black velvet with shaded beads, and on a white silk ground’ and Miss Carey ‘in pale blue silk of Cardiff’. dress… with gold trimming’. The same month, while England and Wales were in the grip of an influenza In January 1895 Marian’s daughter Lylie Evelyn Carey (26) married Captain epidemic, ‘Mr JH Insole, Ely Court, Llandaff, who is suffering from influenza and acute bronchitis, passed a restless night… , and his medical adviser… Hector Corbyn (1864-1909) RHA in Llandaff Cathedral. The service was conducted by the Ven. Archdeacon of Monmouth and the bride was given reported that the patient was not so well’. away by her step-father James Harvey. Fred Insole’s ‘two dear little boys’ August 1895 saw the Welsh Regiment (41st/69th) march into Cardiff amidst Claud (7) and Eric (5) were pageboys. Marian and Maria Georgina carried much fanfare. As part of the arrangements for the ceremony for depositing ‘exquisite bouquets of lilies of the valley’, Marian ‘wore dark blue velvet the Crimean Colours at Llandaff Cathedral, ‘Mrs Walter Insole (Pencisley), with a bonnet trimmed with violets’. ‘After the wedding the bridal party Mrs Insole (Ely Court), Lady Hill and Mrs Evan Lewis have most kindly returned to Ely Court, where Mr and Mrs Insole [James Harvey and Marian] consented to decorate, with flowers, the memorial tablet which has been held a reception’. ‘Mr and Mrs Insole’ gave the couple house linen while erected to those who fell in the Crimea’.53 While waiting for the entrance of the Regiment into Sophia Gardens Field, ‘Mrs Insole, Mrs Walter Insole, 49 Probably Marian but possibly Jessy. The League was founded in 1883 to spread Conservative principles in the UK. 50 Aunt of Marian’s daughter’s future husband. 52 As listed in the Cheltenham Looker-On Arrivals and Departures column. 51 Probably Jessy Ann David/Insole’s sister-in-law. 53 A cousin of James Harvey fought at the Charge of the Heavy Brigade in 1854.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Mrs Corbyn, …, in fact, a long procession of all the well-known faces around Marian’s brother-in-law (and son-in-law) James Walter Insole died at his the neighbourhood’ were observed. London residence in May 1898 aged 52. He had undergone an apparently successful operation for cancer of the mouth and jaw ten days previously Later that month ‘Mrs Insole and Mrs Walter Insole’ attended a meeting at but contracted an infection and had a sudden ‘relapse from which he never the Park Hotel, Cardiff convened by Lady Windsor and chaired by Lord recovered’. Walter was buried in Llandaff municipal cemetery [date] with Windsor to consider ‘the advisability of holding a bazaar in Cardiff with a his mother-in-law Marian Eagle. ‘There was a large attendance at the view to assisting to augment the funds of the National Society for the graveside’, including ‘Mrs Insole, Mr and Mrs Fred Insole, Mrs JH Insole, 54 Prevention of Cruelty to Children’. Captain and Mrs Corbyn, and Mr and Mrs GR Burness”.

Also in August 1895 ‘Mrs Insole, Mrs Walter Insole, Captain and Mrs In October 1898 ‘Mrs Insole’ attended the annual meeting of the Corbyn’ were among the guests of Lord and Lady Windsor ‘at home’. Needlework Guild55 held at the Infirmary.

Marian’s first grandchild, Dorothy Lylie Corbyn (1896-1958), was born at Ely The Cardiff Dramatic Society gave a series of amateur theatrical Court in April 1896. performances at the Theatre Royal in November 1898. ‘Amongst those that In June 1896 ‘Mrs Insole, Ely Court’ and ‘Mrs Walter Insole’ donated £2 and have taken tickets are Lord and Lady Windsor, Lord Tredegar, Mrs 10s respectively to the Llandaff Church Melanesian Mission. Over the next Mackintosh of Mackintosh, Mrs Insole, Mr Wilson Barrett, and others’. decade Marian, James Harvey, Walter and Fred made numerous donations ‘Mr and Mrs Insole, Mr and Mrs F Insole and Mrs W Insole’ (James Harvey, to the Llandaff Parish organ fund, the Day Schools, the Curate’s Fund, Marian, Fred, Jessy and Maria Georgina) attended the Reynolds-Williams Diocesan Funds, Diocesan Sunday Fund, Christmas festivities for ‘their wedding held at St Margaret’s, Roath in April 1899.56 ‘Mrs Walter Insole poorer neighbours’ etc. [LM] was exquisitely dressed in pale grey coat and skirt and black and white tulle In March 1897 ‘Mr and Mrs Insole (Ely Court)’ sent a wreath to the funeral hat with black wing’. Marian’s step-grandson ‘Master Allan Insole’ (sic) (4) of ‘old Cardiff resident’ Colonel CH Page. attended as one of the pages who carried the train. ‘Colonel Aitchison’ also attended.57 1898 – Ely Court is again extended as James Harvey adds ‘the octagon and circular wings’ ‘Mr and Mrs Insole (Ely Court)’ sent a wreath to the funeral of the widow of the late Dean of Llandaff in August 1899. Marian’s only other grandchild, Vernon Hector Corbyn (1898-1914), was born at Ely Court in January 1898. 55 A philanthropic society which provided clothing for the ‘sick and suffering poor in the wards’. 54 It was agreed to hold the bazaar at a time which did not clash with forthcoming 56 The bride was Jessy’s cousin. bazaars in aid of ‘the friendless girls’ and the Infirmary. 57 Both he and the groom were from the Welsh Regiment.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

‘Lord Tredegar brought several ladies with him [to the Cardiff Horse Show the use and enjoyment of Ely Court and its facilities while she remained his of September 1899] who were more or less sombrely attired. Mrs Lewis…, widow. The probate value of James Harvey’s estate was £245,388. Maria Lady Hill…, Mrs Morgan Lindsay… [and] Mrs Insole wore grey coat and skirt, Georgina was buried in Llandaff municipal cemetery with her husband beautifully braided; grey toque, with mauve velvet and tips’. Walter Insole and mother Marian Eagle. Her estate was valued at £22,824, most of which went to Marian including her (originally Walter’s) interest in In January 1900 ‘Mrs Insole (Ely Court)’ attended a meeting convened by the coal business. the Mayor of Cardiff at the Town Hall to raise funds for a ‘Yeomanry hospital’ in Cape Town. ‘Mrs Insole, Ely Court’ subscribed £50 to the cause At the end of March 1901 the only occupants of Ely Court were two male and ‘Mr and Mrs F Insole’ gave £10. and two female domestic servants. Marian (almost 55), daughter Lylie Evelyn (32) and the two grandchildren (almost 5 and 3) were staying at the Marian’s son-in-law Hector Corbyn was promoted to Major in February Landsdown Grove Hotel, Bath accompanied by a governess and a lady’s 1900. 59 maid. Major Corbyn was with his Regiment in South Africa. ‘Mrs Insole’ was part of Lord Tredegar’s party attending the Cardiff Horse In August 1902 Major Corbyn was given a hero’s welcome on his return Show of September 1900 and wore ‘a becoming costume of grey from South Africa to Ely Court. In his speech he alluded to ‘the welcome he embroidered chiffon and black toque’, and the next day a ‘hat of Tuscan had received seven years ago, when he came to take away one of Llandaff’s foulard and toque of fawn chiffon’. fairest daughters’. ‘Loud cheers were given for Major and Mrs Corbyn, and Marian (54) suffered a double blow as she was widowed for a second time for Mrs JH Insole’. [LM] when her husband James Harvey Insole died at Ely Court in January 1901 In her will, Maria Georgina, ‘a true friend of the Parish’, had bequeathed aged 79, and her sister Maria Georgina Lillie Eagle/Insole died just a month £500 to the National Schools. In November 1902 Marian, as executrix, later aged ~53, also at Ely Court. James Harvey was buried with his first wife expedited the payment and included interest. [LM] Mary Ann at Llandaff. ‘The cortege arrived at the cathedral at noon, and was met by the Bishop and clergy at the cathedral doors… The mourners Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole (59) married William Andrew Aitchison present were Mrs Insole (widow), Mrs Burness (daughter), Mrs Corben (1843 Poona Bombay-1915 Guildford) in London on 31 August 1905 – thus [sic], and Mr Fred Insole (son) and family.’ The funeral was also attended by ending her tenure as Mistress of the Court. Marian’s husband was Lt- a ‘large number of commercial and professional gentlemen’. James Colonel, late 69th Regiment.60 The quiet wedding was held at St Paul’s, Harvey’s will confirmed the settlement made prior to his marriage to 58 Marian and also left her all his wines, spirits and consumables as well as 59 The Census entry contains numerous errors for this family. an annuity of £2,000, the income from houses in Queens Street Cardiff and 60 So two wedding announcements and Marian’s death notice, but another account of the marriage says late 41st Regiment (transcription V Cunningham). A 1908 biography has ‘formerly Major 2nd Batt Welsh Regt (late 69th Regt)’. There is no 58 Details not specified. conflict – the 41st and 69th Regiments became the Welsh Regiment in 1881 and

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Knightsbridge on a Thursday afternoon.61 Marian was given away by her Midshipman Vernon Hector Corbyn RN was killed in action during the son-in-law Major Corbyn. Among those present were ‘Mrs Corbyn, Mr and sinking of HMS Cressy in the North Sea. He was 16 years old. Mrs Fred Insole, Mr Claude [sic] Insole, Mr, Mrs and the Misses Burness, By 1915 the Aitchisons had made their home in Willinghurst, Surrey. Major and Mrs Eustace Hill, Mrs Tennant… and Kaid Sir Harry Maclean’. Marian (69) was again widowed when her husband Lt-Col William Andrew Following a reception held in Piccadilly the couple left for Scotland. Aitchison died at Guildford in July 1915 aged 71. The will named Marian as ‘By the departure of Mrs Insole from Llandaff, we are losing one of the one of two executors of the estate valued at £19,612. kindest women, who was always ready to do good, and was a cheerful and 62 generous giver’ and ‘when Mrs Aitchison leaves Ely Court we shall lose In 1919 Marian (73) was living at 80 Brook Street Mayfair. another kind giver of £5 [to the Curate’s Fund]’. [LM] In August 1919 Marian entered into a deed of partnership with Eric Marian’s daughter Lylie Evelyn (39) and her two children returned from Raymond Insole as a partner in ‘George Insole and Son’ which entitled her to ‘a certain share or interest in the business carried on by such Cape Town in September 1907 (possibly en route from India). partnership… and the capital and good-will and profits thereof’. Marian’s son-in-law Major Hector Corbyn (44) was killed as a result of an Marian’s widowed daughter Lylie Evelyn Carey/Corbyn (56) married Lt- accident in Sialkot Punjab India in April 1909 while serving with the Royal Colonel John Walter Beresford Merewether (1867-1942) in Kensington, Horse Artillery. London in the Spring of 1924.63 [date] The couple steamed into London Marian (almost 65) and her husband William Andrew have not been found from Bombay in May 1928, apparently after having been resident there. in the April 1911 Census so perhaps they were travelling. The Aitchison Marian’s friend Marion Hanson/Tennant died at Richmond, Surrey in April residence of Whitwell Hall in Yorkshire was occupied by a housekeeper and other domestic servants. Lylie Evelyn (42) was visiting Rev. Henry West in 1930 aged 79. Wokingham while her daughter Dorothy Lylie (almost 15) was at school in In September 1931 Marian (85) was living at 80 Brook Street Grosvenor Hertfordshire and her son Vernon Hector (13) was a cadet at the Royal Square, London. Naval College, Isle of Wight. In 1933 Marian was living at 7 Devonport Street Paddington. The Great War began in July 1914. Two months later Marian’s grandson Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole/Aitchison died in London on 15 January 1937 aged 90. She had been living at 7 Devonport Street Paddington. Major Aitchison retired with honorary rank Lt-Colonel in 1884. Another interesting connection is that William attended the same school at Cheltenham as Walter and Fred, although he would have been a few years ahead of them. 62 C.f. James Harvey’s address of 13 Brook St at their marriage in 1890. 61 They were married by the Ven. Archdeacon Bruce, presumably the same who 63 Lylie’s husband spent his military career in India and had been made a had conducted James Harvey’s funeral at Llandaff four years earlier. Companion of Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire in 1916.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

[death cert] The funeral was held at Llandaff and she was buried in Llandaff municipal cemetery with her mother Marian Eagle, sister Maria Georgina and brother-in-law Walter Insole. Marian’s estate had a probate value of £29,851 and was left to her daughter and granddaughter.

Marian Eagle [widow] of [George] Eagle [of] Dublin

Sacred

to the loved memory of James Walter Insole of Pencisley, in this Parish, eldest son of James Harvey Insole of Ely Court. Born Jan. 6 1845. Died May 4 1898. also of Lillie Maria Georgina wife of the above named James Walter Insole died February 26 1901.

Also of Marian Louisa Aitchison died Jan. 15 1937. Looking unto Jesus.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Birth notice - Cork Examiner 17 April 1846 [original]

Shipping list (arrived Adelaide South Australia 10 October 1867) - South Australian Register 14 October 1867

Marriage register - St Stephen Dublin 1867

Shipping list (departed Adelaide South Australia 18 November 1872) - South Australian Register 20 November 1872

Marriage notice - The Belfast Newsletter 9 May 1867

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Marriage notice - The Times 29 September 1890

Marriage announcement - The Cheltenham Looker-On 22 July 1905

Marriage licence application 1890

South Wales Graphic 7 September 1905 (transcription V Cunningham)

Marriage register (GRO) - St George Hanover Square 1890

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Marian Louisa Eagle (1846-1937)

Death notice - The Times 18 January 1937

Probate calendar 1937

Monumental inscription detail - Llandaff municipal cemetery (photo N James)

Grave - Llandaff municipal cemetery (photo N James)

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Jessy Ann David (9 August 1853 – 9 September 1938) Llandaff, with her parents and two brothers. There were also a nineteen year old Irish governess, a housemaid, a cook, a lady’s maid and a 64 Jessy was born at Radyr Court, north of groom/gardener. Her father was a farmer of 420 acres and employed ten Llandaff, the only daughter of Evan labourers and two boys. He was also highly skilled at metal-work. Williams David (1815 Llandaff-1872 Llandaff) and his wife Jessy Louisa Jessy’s grandfather Evan David died at nearby Fairwater House, Llandaff in Talavera Herring (1825 Bracondale, November 1862 aged 73 and was buried at Llandaff. Her father Evan Norfolk-1887 Llandaff) who were married Williams David was elected Chairman of the Llandaff Board of Governors on at Cromer, Norfolk on 10 November his father’s death. He was particularly concerned for the pauper children of 1852.65 Jessy had a twin brother Evan the Industrial School at Ely. Edgar (1853-1926) and a younger brother In September 1863 Jessy’s father was Gazetted Captain, 13th Charles Frederick (1855-1893). She also Glamorganshire Rifle Volunteers. had a half-brother, Edward Robert

Llewellyn (1847-1885), via her mother’s Jessy’s grandmother Ann Williams/David died at Fairwater House in 66 previous marriage to her father’s cousin Rev. Edward David (1818-1850). September 1867 aged 80 and was buried at Llandaff. The David family were Llandaff gentry while the Herring family came from Norfolk (with earlier roots in Cambridge) and had a very strong Established Jessy’s grandfather Robert Herring died at Cromer, Norfolk in October 1868 Church heritage.67 Jessy and her brother were baptized at Radyr the day aged 71. after their birth.68 In April 1871 Jessy (Ann, 17) and mother Jessy Louisa were visiting In April 1861 Jessy (7) was living in the family home of Radyr Court, near grandmother Jessy Ann Herring (formerly Ganning, 1803-1883) in 69 Marylebone, London. Jessy’s father, a ‘Justice of the Peace, Landowner 64 Changed (at some stage) from ‘Jessy Anne’ to ‘Jessie Anne’ in the baptism and Land agent, and Farmer of 437 Acres Emp[loying] 15 Hands’ was at register (her mother’s name was left as ‘Jessy’) but she is listed as ‘Jessy’ in the home in Fairwater House, along with her half-brother, a GRO Birth Index. [birth cert] She signed herself ‘Jessy Ann’ in 1878 (marriage) and coachman/domestic servant, a stable boy, a cook and a housemaid. 1933 (will) and this form is used in her husband’s 1914, but signed ‘Jessie’ in 1906 and 1908 and was buried as ‘Jessy Anne’. 65 Jessy’s father had been widowed in September 1850 when his first wife died Jessy’s father Evan Williams David died at Fairwater House in September after they had been married for only eight months. 1872 aged 57 and was buried at Llandaff. Jessy was 19 years old. 66 Making him a five-eighth brother? 67 Jessy’s direct ancestor was Dean of St Asaph 1751-74 and cousin to Thomas 69 Jessy Ann Ganning was actually born Jessy Ann Lathom, daughter of Gothic Herring, Archbishop of Canterbury 1747-57. Numerous other relatives were also in novelist and playwright Francis Lathom (1774-1832) and his wife Diana Ganning the ministry. (1776-1851) who were married in Norwich in 1797. Diana and her children 68 Jessy listed second in the register perhaps indicates she was the younger twin. reverted to her maiden name after she separated from Francis.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Jessy’s half-brother Edward Robert Llewellyn married the daughter of a Mary Ellen Adeline Pickard-Cambridge (1854-1940). After the ceremony, ‘a local minister at Whitchurch in February 1873. sum of money was thrown amongst the crowd assembled as a kind of largesse’ as the wedding party returned from the church to Fairwater In 1876 Jessy’s twin brother Evan Edgar graduated BA from Caius College House for the wedding breakfast. Jessy and Fred left for the continent later Cambridge and became a student of the Inner Temple that April. in the afternoon.71 They then made their home in Fairwater House.

Radyr Court and Fairwater House were not far from the Court so Jessy had Jessy (25) and Fred’s first child, a daughter, was stillborn at Fairwater House probably known the Insoles at least from her teenage years. Five days after in March 1879. her twenty-fifth birthday Jessy Ann David married George Frederick Insole (30) in Llandaff Cathedral on 14 August 1878. Jessy was living at Llandaff, In 1879 Jessy’s twin brother Evan Edgar graduated MA from Caius College presumably Fairwater House. Newspaper accounts describe it as the ‘most Cambridge and was called to the bar that May. fashionable and the gayest wedding which has occurred at Llandaff for many years’. Flags were thrown across the road and arches of evergreens ‘Mrs F Insole’ contributed 10s to the 1879 ‘Ely Schools Christmas Tree’ fund. ‘Mrs JH Insole’ (Mary Ann) and ‘Mrs W Insole’ (Maria Georgina) and flowers erected. The Cathedral was crowded with guests and well- wishers. Jessy had sixteen bridesmaids, eight of whom were children.70 She contributed £1 and 5s respectively. was escorted down the aisle by her brother Evan Edgar. The marriage was In April 1881 Jessy (27) and Fred (33, ‘Colliery Owner’) were staying with conducted by the Bishop of Llandaff, the Dean of Llandaff and Jessy’s uncle her parents-in-law at Ely Court. Rev. William David (1823-1897), rector of St Fagans. The bride ‘was arrayed in a rich white satin dress, made with an exceedingly long train, with body In January 1882 Jessy gave birth at Fairwater House to Jessie Gwendoline cut square, bordered with flowers, trimmed with a deep flounce of Brussels Mary (1882-1932). She was baptised at St Fagans in February by Jessy’s point lace, and flowers of orange blossom and myrtle, with wreath to uncle William. match, and tulle veil, which entirely covered the dress. The bride’s veil was Three months later Jessy’s mother-in-law Mary Ann Jones/Insole died in fastened with a diamond star, the gift of her brother, and amongst other Kensington, London aged 63 and was buried at Llandaff. ornaments worn by her were a gold necklace studded with diamonds, and a diamond locket presented by the bridegroom; also a gold bracelet with Jessy’s grandmother Jessy Ann Herring (formerly Lathom then Ganning) diamond star in the centre, the gift of her father-in-law’. The marriage died in London in April 1883 aged 79. register witnesses were Jessy’s twin brother Evan Edgar and her bridesmaid In December 1883 Jessy and Fred’s next daughter Violet Lilly (1883-1932)

70 Including ‘Miss Insole’ (probably Fred’s cousin Helena Mary 1857-1928), ‘Miss Ethel David’ (Jessy’s cousin b.1859, daughter of Rev. William David), other 71 Rather than the Davids marrying into the Insoles, this wedding should probably David/Williams and Herring relatives and ‘Miss M Burness’ (probably Fred’s niece be understood as the Insoles’ entré into the local gentry – some fifty years after Marian Lylie 1872-1956). arriving in Cardiff.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938) was born at Fairwater House.72 [St Fagans baptisms of children] ‘Insole, Mr W and Mrs; Insole, Mr GF and Mrs’, ‘Carey, Mrs and Miss (Orby)’ (Walter and Maria Georgina, Fred and Jessy, Marian and Lylie Evelyn) were Jessy’s brother Charles Frederick married the daughter of the Deputy invited to the Military Ball held in Cardiff Town Hall in July 1890. Lieutenant of Monmouthshire at Abergavenny in June 1884. Jessy’s father-in-law James Harvey Insole married Marian Louisa Jessy (31) and Fred’s son, Frederick Harvey, was born at Fairwater House in Eagle/Carey (1846-1937) in London in September 1890. Living nearby at Ely January 1885. He died only nineteen days later and was buried at Llandaff. Court, Marian would become the grandmother figure for Jessy and Fred’s In July 1885 ‘Insole Mr JW and Mrs; Insole Mr GF and Mrs’, ‘Carey Mrs and children as they grew up. Miss’, were (among the many) guests at Lord Windsor’s party at Penarth to In April 1891 Jessy (37) and Fred (43, ‘Colliery Proprietor’) were living at meet members of the British Medical Association. Fairwater House with their four children Jessie (9), Violet (7), Claud (3) and Edward Robert Llewellyn David, Jessy’s half-brother, died at Radyr Court in Eric (1) as well as a parlour maid, a cook, a nurse, an under nurse, a serving October 1885 aged 38. maid and a kitchen maid.

Jessy’s mother Jessy Louisa Talavera Herring/David/David died at Fairwater Jessy’s brother Charles Frederick died at Abergavenny (the Golf Club, House in April 1887 aged 61. Llanfoist) in November 1893 aged 38.

Jessy’s twin brother Evan Edgar married the daughter of a barrister and Fred’s step-sister Lylie Evelyn Carey (1868-1958) married Captain Hector High Sheriff of Glamorgan in Kensington, London in June 1887. His wife Corbyn (1864-1909) RHA in Llandaff Cathedral in January 1895. Jessy’s ‘two died in July of the next year, two weeks after the birth of their son. dear little boys’ Claud (7) and Eric (5) were pageboys. Gifts included a pearl necklace from ‘Mr and Mrs GF Insole’ and a silver sealing-wax holder from In August 1887 Jessy (34) and Fred’s second son George Claud Lathom73 ‘Master Claude Insole’ (sic). (1887-1918) was born at Fairwater House. In February 1895 Jessy (41) and Fred’s fourth son Alan Vyvyan (1895-1964) In October 1889 Jessy (36) and Fred’s third son Eric Raymond (1889-1946) was born at Fairwater House. He was baptized at St Fagans in March by was born at Fairwater House. Jessy’s uncle William.

72 At some stage Violet seems to have acquired the additional middle name of In March 1895, as requested by the Bishop of Llandaff in lieu of wreaths Adeline. Her year of birth is incorrectly given as 1884 on her gravestone. being sent to the funeral of his wife, ‘Mr and Mrs Insole, Ely Court; Mr and 73 A 1915 copy birth certificate gives 'Latham' but 'Lathom' is preferred as it is likely Mrs Walter Insole, Pencisley; Mr and Mrs GF Insole, Fairwater House’ derived from his mother's ancestor, author Francis Lathom, and GCL himself used contributed to the ‘mayor’s fund for the relief of the sick and suffering poor this latter spelling. His army issued death certificate gives ‘Lathom’ as do his Cambridge University, GWR share and Probate Index records as well as his father’s of Cardiff’. 1914 will, but he was buried and commemorated using ‘Latham’. The same month, while England and Wales were in the grip of an influenza

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938) epidemic, Jessy’s father-in-law ‘Mr JH Insole, Ely Court, Llandaff, who is Corben [sic], and Mr Fred Insole (son) and family.’ suffering from influenza and acute bronchitis, passed a restless night… , and Jessy’s sister-in-law Maria Georgina Lillie Eagle/Insole died at Ely Court in his medical adviser… reported that the patient was not so well’. February 1901 aged ~53 and was buried with her husband and mother in Jessy’s niece Jessie Primrose Josephine Vera David74 (1887-1971) came to Llandaff municipal cemetery. live with the Insoles sometime after her mother died in June 1897. In March 1901 Jessy (47) and Fred (53, ‘Colliery Proprietor’) were living at Jessy’s brother-in-law James Walter Insole died suddenly at his London Fairwater House with children Jessie (19), Claud (13) and Eric (11) and Alan residence in May 1898 aged 52. ‘There was a large attendance at the (6). Violet (17) was at school in Aldenham, Hertfordshire.76 Fred’s cousin graveside’ (Llandaff municipal cemetery), immediate family being ‘Mrs Marion Lilly Jones (1863-1946) was visiting. Also in the house were a cook, Insole, Mr and Mrs Fred Insole, Mrs JH Insole, Captain and Mrs Corbyn, and a lady’s maid, a parlour maid, two house maids, a nurse and a kitchen maid. Mr and Mrs GR Burness’. Claud (14) attended Harrow from January 1902 to the summer of 1906. Jessy’s sons Claud (11) and Eric (9) boarded at Cothill School Abingdon, Oxfordshire from 1899 after having briefly attended the Cathedral School Eric (13) attended Harrow from September 1903 to the summer of 1907. Llandaff (Claud for two years, Eric for one). Alan (9) attended Cothill School Abingdon, Oxfordshire from 1904.

‘Mr and Mrs Insole, Mr and Mrs F Insole and Mrs W Insole’ (James Harvey Fred’s step-mother Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole married Lt-Col and Marian, Fred and Jessy and Maria Georgina) attended the Reynolds- William Andrew Aitchison (1843-1915) in London on 31 August 1905 – and 75 Williams wedding held at St Margaret’s, Roath in April 1899. ‘Mrs F Insole so Jessy became Mistress of the Court.77 was in fawn cloth, with beautiful gold and white garniture, yolk of bodice of pale blue, brown hat with pink rose and brown tips’. Jessy’s son ‘Master 1906-9 – Ely Court becomes The Court as Fred remodels it in a ‘somewhat Allan Insole’ (sic) (4) was one of the pages who carried the train. plainer, English Renaissance style’ and adds ‘a vast new service wing’78

In January 1900 ‘Mr and Mrs F Insole’ gave £10 and ‘Mrs Insole, Ely Court’ The Llandaff parish magazines record many donations made by Fred from gave £50 towards a Yeomanry hospital in Cape Town. 1896 to 1917. In May 1906 ‘Mrs Insole’ (Jessy) is noted separately as subscribing £3 to the ‘New Mission Room, Llandaff North’. [LM] Jessy’s father-in-law James Harvey Insole died at Ely Court in January 1901 aged 79 and was buried at Llandaff with his first wife Mary Ann. ‘The mourners present were Mrs Insole (widow), Mrs Burness (daughter), Mrs 76 Jessy’s niece Vera (13) was also at the same school. 77 Although John Isaacs’ article indicates that Jessy and family moved in at this time, the builder’s accounts suggest that they remained at Fairwater House until 74 Daughter of Charles Frederick David. the renovations were (at least almost) complete (corresp. V Cunningham). 75 The bride was Jessy’s cousin. 78 Now thought to have also been a guest wing (corresp. V Cunningham).

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Jessy (53) and Fred’s daughter Jessie Gwendoline Mary (24) married September 1908.79 Captain Richard Grainger Dennis O’Callaghan (1879-1943) in Llandaff Cathedral in September 1906. The bride’s family was living at Fairwater Alan (13) attended Harrow from September 1908 to Christmas 1911. House. The ceremony was performed by the Bishop, assisted by ‘Miss Vera David, … niece of Mr GF and Mrs Insole, The Court, Llandaff’ was Archdeacon David (cousin of the bride) and the vicar of Llandaff. The married in Llandaff Cathedral in September 1908. ‘The bride was attended bridesmaids included Violet Insole (sister) and Vera David (cousin). ‘Mrs by Miss Insole [Violet]…’ and leant ‘on the arm of Mr Insole [Fred]’ down Insole, the bride’s mother, was dressed in blue velvet, chiffon, and stripes, the aisle. ‘Mrs Insole [Jessy] wore a dress of mole charmeuse with fringe to and velvet hat and blue feathers, and carried a pretty shower bouquet.’ match and touches of blue in the bodice, and a brown felt hat with mole The reception was held at Fairwater House. Gift givers included coloured feathers. She carried a bouquet of carnations.’ The reception was ‘Lieutenant-Colonel and Mrs [Marian] Aitchison, muffin dish’, ‘Mr, Mrs held at ‘The Court, Llandaff’ where floral arches had been erected at the [Lylie Evelyn] and Miss Corbyn, glass jugs and glasses’, ‘Mr and Mrs [Jessy] top and bottom lodges. Insole to bridegroom, dressing bag; Mr and Mrs [Jessy] Insole to bride, pearl and diamond pendant’ as well as numerous members of the Insole, Violet (25) was presented at Court in the General Circle at Buckingham David and Herring families. The O’Callaghans made their home at Swords, Palace in March 1909. [Jessie’s presentation?] North Dublin. Jessy’s second grandchild, Richard Fredrick Bryan O’Callaghan (1908-1989) Claud (19) entered Trinity College Cambridge in 1907. was born at Balrothery, Co. Dublin in July 1909. Jessy was to have only one other grandchild. Jessy’s first grandchild, Jessie Maureen O’Callaghan (1907-1970), was born at Llandaff (probably Fairwater House) in June and baptised in Llandaff ‘Mrs Insole, Ely Court [sic]’ headed a list of ‘ladies and gentlemen [who] Cathedral in July 1907. subscribed towards the cost of prizes and refreshment’ for a ‘Whist Drive and Dance… at the Church of England Schools’ in March 1910. The Also in July 1907 a ‘new Frontal for the Communion Table in the Cathedral’ proceeds went to the Working Men's Club. [LM] was donated, ‘the gift and handiwork of Mrs Insole, Fairwater House, and her daughters’. [LM] Claud (22) played polo for Cambridge against Oxford in June 1910 (they lost). He graduated BA from Trinity College Cambridge in October 1910. In December 1907 Violet (almost 24) took the lead role in Her Own Rival performed at the New Theatre in aid of the Infirmary. In April 1911 Jessy (57) and Fred (63, ‘Colliery Proprietor’) were living at ‘The Court’ with children Violet (27), Claud (23) and Eric (21) as well as nine Eric (18) entered Trinity College Cambridge in 1908. servants. Jessie (29) and her family were living at the O’Callaghan residence

Jessy and family had moved from Fairwater House to The Court by 79 Photographs indicate they were still in Fairwater House in December 1907.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938) at Swords, North Dublin. Alan (16) was attending school at Harrow. Ambulance Convoy in France.

In May 1911 ‘Mr John Morgan, who, for 20 years was employed at the In October 1914 Eric (25) was appointed Lieutenant, General List. Court, Llandaff, passed peacefully away’. ‘Mrs GF Insole showed her appreciation of an old and faithful servant by attending his funeral – a Jessy’s uncle Gerard Edgar Herring (1834-1915), mayor and alderman of Ryde Council (NSW Australia), died at Gladesville Sydney in February 1915. thoughtful act which the relatives evidently valued.’ [LM] In March 1915 Claud (27) joined the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards. He had Claud (24) passed Inner Temple law subjects ‘Real Property and Conveyancing’ in January and ‘Criminal Law and Procedure’ in June 1912. been reading for the bar.

Eric (22) accompanied Lt-General Sir Robert Baden-Powell on his Scouting Alan (20) disembarked in France at the end of May 1915. World Tour to America, Australia and South Africa from January to August In August 1915 Eric (25) was appointed Lieutenant, Territorial Force 80 1912. He had just come down from Trinity College Cambridge. Reserve.

Alan (18) matriculated to Trinity College Cambridge in 1913. Alan (20) was wounded in action in France in January 1916. A shell had

81 exploded near him, knocking him down and causing bruising and shell- Jessy’s cousin Ven. Arthur Evan David (1861-1913), Archdeacon of Brisbane, died in Dulwich London in April 1913. shock. He was transferred back to England.

‘Mr, Mrs and Miss Insole’ (Fred, Jessy and Violet) attended the Glamorgan In April 1916 Alan (21) was in hospital in London. [LM] He was transferred Hunt Ball at Cardiff Town Hall in January 1914. to a desk job at the Woolwich Dock Yard in July 1916.

In May 1914 ‘Mr and Mrs Fred Insole, of the Court, Llandaff’ donated a new In 1916 Eric (26) was serving as intelligence officer to Colonel Phillippe. altar frontal to the Cathedral. [LM] In early July 1916 Claud (28) was wounded in the foot by a shell fragment in Ypres, Belgium and transferred back to England. He was awarded the Claud (27) graduated MA from Trinity College Cambridge in June 1914. Military Cross ‘for conspicuous gallantry when in charge of an assault. He In August 1914 Alan (19) was appointed 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Field Artillery. handled his company with great skill and determination, and although He would serve with the 45th Battery. wounded, continued to direct operations till his company was relieved’. Claud’s leave expired in August 1916. From September 1914 Claud served as a civilian with the Red Cross Motor Jessy’s husband George Frederick Insole died of ‘Cardiac Valvular disease, 80 He was one of three companions whom Baden-Powell variously described as Exhaustion’ at The Court in February 1917 aged 69. He was buried at ADCs or ‘my bodyguard’. Llandaff where ‘a large number of representative men came to pay a last 81 Son of Rev. William David tribute of respect’. His estate was value at £157,060, probate was granted

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938) to Jessy and her two eldest sons. Jessy was 65 years old. was girt, and underneath is a suitable inscription.’ [LM]

In March 1917 Claud (29) was in hospital in London for treatment of his Jessy lived at The Court during the 1920s with Violet and Eric. Alan was foot. He was also treated for acute tonsillitis. travelling abroad in the early 1920s.82 Violet also went abroad a number of times in 1921-32 collecting plant specimens. Alan (22) was discharged as permanently medically unfit in April 1917. Alan (27) married Denise Annie Du Cros (21) at Marylebone in January In 1918 Violet (34) became Commandant of the Lodge Red Cross Hospital, 83 1923. His brother Eric was best man. The bridesmaids included ‘Miss Llandaff (which closed in March 1919). [LM] Insole’ (sister Violet) and ‘Miss Maureen O’Callaghan’ (niece). Others Jessy’s son (Acting) Captain George Claud Lathom Insole MC, was killed in present included ‘Mrs Insole’ (Jessy), ‘Major and Mrs O’Callaghan’ (sister action ‘near Arras’ France in April 1918 aged 30. A telegram was received at Jessie) and ‘Major Evan David’ (cousin). The Court expressing the Army Council’s sympathy. He was buried at In August 1923 ‘Mrs Insole’ gave £5 to the school-building repair fund. [LM] Bailleulmont Pas de Calais, France. His medals would be sent to his mother. Jessy placed remembrance notices in The Times in April 1919 and 1920. A bazaar was held at the Cardiff City Hall in September 1923 in aid of two ‘beneficent institutions’, one at Porthcawl (for men) and another at In the same month Alan (23) auctioned his ‘important collection’ of British Southerndown (for women). ‘Mrs and Miss Insole, the Court, will have a and Colonial postage stamps. “Linen Stall”, towards which they invite contributions.’ [LM] In July 1918 Eric (28) resigned his commission in the Territorial Force In March 1924 ‘Mrs Insole’ headed a list of subscribers to the Cathedral Reserve and was granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant. Organ and Electric Lighting Fund with £100. [LM] In March 1920 ‘Mrs Insole’ donated £1,000 to the Welsh Church Million In February 1926 Jessy’s twin brother Evan Edgar died in Cardiff aged 72. Pound Fund. ‘Mrs Insole, The Court’ donated another £500 in November 1922. In November 1927 Alan (32) was divorced ‘due to wife’s infidelity’.

The Insoles’ Luxborough Estate in Somerset was sold in May 1920. In July 1930 Alan (35) married Elizabeth Dawson Baker (1893-1964) in the Register Office at St Pancras, London. In September 1920 Jessy (67) erected a memorial to her son Claud in Llandaff Cathedral. ‘Visitors as they enter the Cathedral by the West Door, Jessy’s daughter Jessie Gwendoline Mary Insole/O’Callaghan died of a cannot but have their attention drawn to the very striking monument on 82 the wall under the Jasper Tower. It has been placed there by Mrs Insole, He donated a collection of birds and marine invertebrates from Japan to the British Museum in 1921 and was at one stage a confidant of DH Lawrence. the Court, in memory of the son whom she gave for his country. It 83 The marriage announcement gives Alan’s London address but the marriage represents an Angel, carrying the very sword with which the young officer certificate gives ‘The Court’.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938) cerebral haemorrhage at Virginia Water, Surrey in January 1932 aged 50. Llandaff (churchyard) on 13 September 1938. Her estate, valued at £2475, was left entirely to her son Eric.88 In July 1932 Jessy’s daughter Violet Lilly Insole died of an intestinal obstruction (after an appendectomy) at The Court aged 47. She was buried IN MEMORY OF at Llandaff four days later. GEORGE FREDERICK INSOLE, ‘The death of Miss Insole, The Court, after two serious operations, was a BORN NOV. 18 1847 great shock to the parish. Miss Insole was a very interesting lady, and was DIED FEB. 11 1917 widely known for her wonderful collection of iris plants. She collected her ALSO OF GEORGE CLAUD LATHAM INSOLE, specimens in out of the way parts of the earth.84 We offer Mrs Insole and WELSH GUARDS Mr Insole our deepest sympathy.’ [LM] KILLED IN ACTION APRIL 12 1918 AGED 30 1932 – The Court is sold to the Cardiff Corporation under a compulsory HIS ELDEST SON. order to make way for the new Western Avenue ALSO OF VIOLET ADELINE LILLY INSOLE Jessy and Eric continued to live at The Court, paying no rent up to 1934 HIS YOUNGEST DAUGHTER when they had initially intended to leave.85 Thereafter they paid £262 p.a. BORN DEC. 15 1884 Jessy’s cousin, the celebrated geologist and Antarctic explorer Sir Tannatt DIED JULY 2 1932. William Edgeworth David86 (1858-1934), died in Sydney, Australia in August ALSO OF 1934. JESSY ANNE, HIS WIFE In 1937 the Insoles notified Cardiff Council that they intended to leave The BORN AUGUST 9 1853 Court in March 1938. Harrod’s auctioned household ‘property of the late DIED SEPT 9 1938. GF Insole’ on site at The Court over two days in March 1937. The tenure of the last Mistress of Insole Court ended with Jessy’s departure.

Jessy Ann David/Insole died of cardiac failure ‘at her home’ at 2 Mansfield Street Marylebone87 on 9 September 1938 aged 85. She was buried at

1931, although possibly a different flat within the five-storey mansion block. 84 The Insole Cup was still awarded by ‘The Group for Beardless Irises’ in 2006. Electoral registers for 1929-31 show Lylie Evelyn and husband in Flat 21, telephone 85 Eric was registered to vote in London from at least 1933. directories show Jessy at 2 Mansfield St in 1937 and 1938). 86 Son of Rev. William David. 88 Some non-binding indications of her desires for the disposal of certain items may 87 Interestingly, this was Marian’s daughter Lylie Evelyn’s address in September also have been made alongside her will.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Birth announcement - The Bristol Mercury 20 August 1853

Marriage register - Llandaff Cathedral 1878

Baptism register - Radyr 1853 Marriage announcement - The Times 20 August 1878

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Death notice - The Times 10 September 1938

… Death notice - Western Mail 12 September 1938

…

Obituary - Western Mail September 1938 (NB GF’s father is incorrect)[date]

…

Marriage article - Western Mail 15 August 1878 Death certificate - registered St Marylebone 9 September 1938

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Jessy Ann David (1853-1938)

Burial register - Llandaff Cathedral 1938

Probate calendar 1938

Monumental inscription detail - Llandaff Cathedral cemetery (photo R Ollerton)

Grave - Llandaff Cathedral cemetery (photo R Ollerton)

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann, Marian and Jessy

The abridged version then have attended her sister’s wedding, as did James and (probably) Mary Ann Insole. A month later Marian and Samuel left for South Australia where The son of a Herefordshire cider farmer, George Insole (1764-1831) their daughter was born in 1868. Samuel became ill and the family of five founded a saddler’s ironmongery in Birmingham in the 1790s. By 1828 he returned to England in 1872. In London in 1874, Samuel’s health and was in partnership with Birmingham-born Thomas Jones (1791-1844). financial situation were both very low. Samuel died and was buried in Thomas’ mother Mary Webb/Jones (~1761-1830) was also George’s Weston-super-Mare in 1877. Walter Insole was present at the death. housekeeper before her death. George had no children and his nephew Marian was 30. James Insole (1796-1860) took over the business after 1831. George also had strong connections with James’ older brother George Insole (1790- Walter and Maria Georgina Insole lived at Pencisley House, very near Ely 1851) who lived in Worcester in the early 1820s before moving to Cardiff Court. Marian came to live with her sister, probably from around 1874. around 1828-9 where he established his own coal business a few years Also near Ely Court were Radyr Court and Fairwater House, seats of the later. This George and his son James Harvey Insole (1821-1901) probably visited their Birmingham relatives on a number of occasions, travelling from David family who were well-established Llandaff gentry. Jessy Ann David Worcester and then later from Cardiff. Thomas Jones’ eldest daughter (1853-1938) was born and spent her childhood in these houses. She probably visited Ely Court a number of times as she grew up. Jessy (25) Mary Ann (1818-1882) (aged 25) married James Harvey Insole (22) in Edgbaston in 1843. Their daughter and two sons James Walter (1845-1898) married Mary Ann’s son Fred Insole (30) in Llandaff Cathedral in 1878. Both Mary Ann (59) and Marian (32) attended the wedding. Jessy and Fred lived and George Frederick (1847-1917) were born in Cardiff. at Fairwater House where their three daughters and four sons were born Mary Ann (38) and family moved into newly built Ely Court, Llandaff in 1857 over the next seventeen years. Her first daughter was stillborn and her first and she became the first Mistress of the Court. son died when only nineteen days old.

James Harvey Insole exported his Welsh coal to Ireland. By at least 1854, Mary Ann Jones/Insole died at her daughter’s house in London in 1882 and possibly from much earlier, his agent in Dublin was George Eagle aged 63 and was buried at Llandaff. (~1804-1858). (George’s father was an Excise man in Dublin but the Eagle Widowed Marian continued to live at Pencisley House with her sister, family also had strong military, medical and migratory traditions.) George’s brother-in-law and mother. They would have visited and been visited by son took over the business after 1858. James and son Walter Insole most likely visited the Eagle family at their Dublin home when travelling in widowed James Harvey on numerous occasions over the next eight years. Ireland on business. Walter married George Eagle’s second daughter Maria Marian (44) married James Harvey Insole (twenty-five years her senior) in London in 1890 and so became the second Mistress of the Court. Over the Georgina Lillie (~1847-1901) in Dublin in 1867. following years Marian would also have become the grandmother figure for Two weeks earlier, Maria Georgina’s older sister Marian Louisa Eagle Jessy and Fred’s children. (1845-1937) (21) had married widowed father of two, Irish doctor Samuel Orby Carey (~1840-1877) (~27) in the same Dublin church. Marian would Meanwhile, back in the early 1860s, Walter and Fred had boarded at school

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court Mary Ann, Marian and Jessy in Cheltenham where Bombay-born William Andrew Aitchison (1843-1915) Marian’s daughter and granddaughter died in 1958 leaving no other was a few years their senior. He later served with the 69th Regiment of Foot descendants. Both Mary Ann and Jessy have living descendants although which in 1881 became part of the Welsh Regiment, based in Cardiff. Lt- none bear the Insole name. The Insole surname does survive elsewhere; Colonel Aitchison retired from the Regiment in 1884. He was a guest at however, apart from one Canadian branch descended from James Harvey Marian’s daughter’s wedding in Llandaff Cathedral in 1895. Later that year Insole’s uncle James, any relationship with the Insole Court family almost he would likely have attended the depositing of the Welsh Regiment’s certainly dates back to before the 1720s. Crimean Colours at Llandaff Cathedral in which Marian was involved in decorating the ‘memorial tablet’. In 1899 a fellow Welsh Regiment officer Epilogue married one of Jessy’s cousins at Roath, Cardiff. Guests included ‘Colonel Aitchison’ and ‘Mrs Insole’ (Marian). Although less obvious in the historical record than their male counterparts, Mary Ann, Marian and Jessy played significant roles in the lives of those at James Harvey Insole died at Ely Court in 1901 and was buried at Llandaff Ely/The/Insole Court. From very different family backgrounds, each with Mary Ann. Marian was 54. influenced and was influenced by the Court – Mary Ann for 25 years, Marian for 15 years and Jessy for 33 years. Marian (59) married Lt-Col William Andrew Aitchison (62) in London in 1905 (making Jessy the third Mistress of the Court). Marian’s only grandson Differences in personality between the three Mistresses of the Court do was killed in action in the North Sea in 1914 and her husband William died seem to be displayed in these accounts. However, the changing styles of in 1915. Marian was 69. what and how news items were reported and the differing availability of sources in general over the wide time span covered may also be colouring Jessy’s husband Fred died at The Court in 1917, Jessy was 66. Her second the impressions conveyed. son was killed in action in France in 1918 and her two daughters died in 1932. I am particularly grateful to Catherine O’Brien and Vanessa Cunningham for their contributions to the collection of sources as well as their very helpful Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole/Aitchison died in London in 1937 aged comments and corrections. 90. Her funeral was held at Llandaff and she was buried with her sister, brother-in-law and mother in the Llandaff municipal cemetery. October 2012

The Court had been sold to the Cardiff Corporation in 1932 after which Jessy lived there as a tenant. She gave notice that she would leave in March 1938 (although she had probably effectively left in 1937). Jessy Ann

David/Insole died at her home in London in 1938 aged 85. She was buried at Llandaff with her husband and second daughter.

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court

Ely Court entrance (before 1906) The Court entrance (1906-9 renovation)

The Court entrance (1909) Insole Court entrance (modern)

The Three Mistresses of Insole Court

Main sources Appendices

Worcester Heritage Centre: parish records a. Family trees:

Birmingham Archives: parish records Mary Ann Jones/Insole (1818-1882) Marian Louisa Eagle/Carey/Insole/Aitchison (1846-1937) Glamorgan Archives: parish records Jessy Ann David/Insole (1853-1938) Cardiff Library: newspaper microfilms b. Maps showing Ely Court, Pencisley House, Fairwater House, Penhill, The National Archives: wills, death duty files, service records Llandaff and Radyr (copyright material for personal research only)

General Register Office: BMD records

HM Courts: wills

Ancestry.com: parish, probate, census and passenger records

FindMyPast.com: parish, census and passenger records

Gale Databases: 19th Century British Library Newspapers, The Times Digital