Little Rose Ethel Keeley and Her Mother Charlotte Emma Keeley of Powney Road, Maidenhead.

Monument to Rose Ethel Keeley and Charlotte Emma Keeley, All Saints Churchyard, Boyn Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire

"In loving remembrance of Rose Ethel Keeley who died 16th May 1892 aged 7 years & 10 months - There's a home for little children. Above the bright blue sky, Where Jesus reigns in glory, A home of peace and joy -

In loving memory of Charlotte Emma Keeley aged 75 years."

Rose Ethel Keeley was born in 1885 in Maidenhead Berkshire to Richard E Keely, A chimney sweep master, and his wife Charlotte Emma Holdway.

Rose first appears on the 1891 Census aged 6, living with her parents and siblings, Edward, Florence, Reginald, and Lillian in Albert Street, Maidenhead.  Sadly, Rose was to pass away on 16th May from inflammation of the brain. On 18th May 1892 the Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement:

"Deaths

Keeley- May 16th, after four days' illness, from inflammation of the brain, Rose Ethel, the second daughter of Edward and Charlotte Keeley, 11, Albert Street. Age 7 years and 10 months."

Charlotte Emma Keeley was born Charlotte Emma Holdway in 1851 in Slough, Berkshire to William Holdway, a beer housekeeper and greengrocer, and his wife Elizabeth Morris.

Charlotte first appears on the 1851 Census, aged 1 month, living with her parents and elder sister Elizabeth in Upton cum Chalvey, Slough, Berkshire.  In 1861 the family had moved to Albert Street in Maidenhead.  The family had since expanded to include William, Sarah, Harry and Mary.

In 1871 Charlotte, listed as Emma and her elder sister Elizabeth are working as servants for the Royal British Orphan Asylum in Slough.  Another family I researched had connections with the Royal British Orphan Asylum, the Osborne family.

In 1879 Charlotte married Richard Edward Keeley (sometimes known as Edward), a chimney sweep, in Maidenhead Berkshire.

1881 finds the newlyweds living with Charlotte's father William Holdway, and her stepmother Ann in Albert Street Maidenhead along with their 8-month-old son Edward James.  Florence Emily was born in 1882, Rose Ethel was to join the family in 1885, Violet Ada was born and sadly died in 1886, Reginald was born in 1887, Lilian was born in 1889, and Laura was born and sadly died in 1890.

In 1901 after the death of their children Charlotte and Richard can be found living at 12 Albert Street in Maidenhead with their younger children Reginald and Lilian.  In 1900 Edward James, an omnibus conductor, had married Elizabeth Ellen Morris in London, in 1901 they're living in Westminster with their 5-month-old daughter Lily Rose.

Florence Emily is working as a housemaid and living with her paternal aunt Charlotte Alice Keely in London.

1911 and the family has moved to 18a Powney Road, Maidenhead, Richard is still a working chimney sweep at the age of 67.  Living with Richard and Charlotte are their two younger children Reginald, now a manager in a cycle factor, and Lilian, now a schoolteacher.  Also living with them is Florence Emily, a shop assistant, and Edward Arthur Keeley, aged 8 years, Edward James and Elizabeth Ellen's son.  Visiting the family on the night the Census was taken is Richard's sister Charlotte Alice and Edward Barwick Rivers, a groom from Sandwich in Kent.

Edward James as moved back to Maidenhead in 1911 and is now the park keeper for Grenfell Park in Maidenhead.  Edward and Elizabeth are living at 46 Grenfell Road with their daughters Lily Rose now 10 years old, Winifred May aged 6 and their son Ernest Walter aged 4.  1912 saw the birth of their daughter Elizabeth Ellen and in 1916 their youngest daughter Rose was born.

In the September of 1914 Charlote was assaulted by her lodger Joseph Gillett over money he said was owed to him. On 23rd September 1914 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Landlady Seeks Protection.

The violent conduct of a man towards his former landlady was the subject of a summons heard against Joseph Octavius Gillett, now residing in Grenfell-road.

The complainant was Mrs. Charlotte Keeley, of 18, Powney-road, whose case was conducted by Mr. T. W. Stuchbery.

Since Mrs. Keeley had taken out the summons, the defendant had adopted a similar course, alleging that he had been a victim of an assault by Mrs. Keeley. The latter denied this, and the defendant upon the advice of his solicitor, Mr. W. Weed, withdrew his summons against Mrs. Keeley.

Mr. Stuchbery, in explaining Mrs. Keeley's case, said that the defendant took lodgings at her house and first came for 'a week on trial.' At the end of that time his conduct was such that she gave him a week's notice on September 14th. The next day the complainant again had occasion to reprimand him. On Wednesday morning the defendant 'took himself off' and Mrs. Keeley did not see him again until the Saturday, when the assault took place. In the meanwhile the defendant's son or daughter had paid Mrs. Keeley a week's money, but as the father (the defendant) had gone off with without giving notice, she considered that she was quite entitled to keep it. On Saturday night the defendant came to the house and demanded to be admitted. The complainant refused, but the defendant forced his way into the kitchen-

The defendant: (interrupting) That's wrong.

Mr. Stuchbery: (continuing) Forced his way into the kitchen.

Defendant: That I did not.

With this second interruption, the defendant was told that if he did not refrain, he would be put out of court.

Mr. Stuchbery proceeded: The defendant then demanded the balance of his money which had been paid for his lodgings, but Mrs. Keeley pointed out that he had left on his own accord without giving notice, and she was entitled to the money. The defendant then shouted, 'You turned me out, you bad, wicked woman. You are a thief.' He hammered on the table and shook his fist in her face. The complainant's two daughters became frightened, and one of them went for the police. The defendant then struck Mrs. Keeley three times with an umbrella, and caused large bruises on her arm. He eventually got out of the house, but continued to assault Mrs. Keeley and her daughter. The other daughter eventually returned, and when she announced that the policeman was coming the defendant picked up his hat and ran away.

Mr. Stuchbery submitted that such conduct was only to be expected from a man fit for a lunatic asylum, but presuming the defendant to be sane, it was necessary that such conduct should be stopped. If the defendant had apologised and given a written undertaking to leave Mrs. Keeley alone, the case would never have been brought to court and taken out a cross-summons seeking to justify himself. All that the complainant asked was that the defendant should be bound over and made to pay the expense to which she had been put. She merely sought protection of the Brench from a man of such a violent temperament.

Mr. Weed, replying, said that while the defendant had instructed him that he did not force his way into the complainant's house, there was no doubt that the defendant did lose his temper when Mrs. Keeley would not give him the balance of the money which had been paid in advance for a week's lodgings. The defendant had told him that he left the house at Mrs. Keeley's desire, in order to make room for her son who was coming home, and he went to the house to ask for the six days' lodgings which had been aid for and were due to him. The defendant was now sorry for what he had done, although it was not quite so violent as the prosecution would have the magistrates believe.

The magistrates in binding the defendant over in the sum of £10 to be of good behaviour for 12 months, warned him of the serious consequences which would attend another appearance before them for repetition of the offence." 

On 31st August 1915 Florence Emily married Edward Barwick Rivers at All Saints Church in Boyn Hill, Maidenhead.  Her brother Edward James Keeley was one of the witnesses.

Charlotte Emma passed away on 21st February 1926.  I am unsure was to whether Charlotte is actually buried with her daughter Rose Ethel.  It looks as if her name has simply been stencilled in on the top of her daughter's monument. Her husband Richard passed away on 20th May 1933. One the 31st May 1933 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported: 

"Funeral of Mr. Richard Keeley.

The funeral of Mr. Richard Keeley, a former well-known sweep who had lived in Maidenhead all his life, and whose death on 20th inst. at the age of 79, was recorded in our last week's issue, took place on Wednesday afternoon last in the old part of All Saints' churchyard in accordance with the wish of the deceased. The ceremony at the church and at the graveside was conducted by the Vicar (the Rev W. S. Mahony)."

Robert Clifton Davy M.S.A., Architect of Residential Maidenhead, and His Wife Susannah Sarah Davy

Monument to Robert Clifton Davy and Susannah Sarah Davy, All Saints Church, Boyn Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

"Whatsoever thy hand find to do. Do it with thy might. To the beloved memory of Robert Clifton Davy who fell asleep May 6 1908 aged 57 years.

For here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come.  To the beloved memory of Susannah Sarah Davy his wife who feel asleep July 14 1913 aged 69 years."

Robert Clifton Davy was born in Maidenhead on 2nd July 1851 to Clifton Davy, a tailor and lock keeper, and his wife Mary Ann Lucas.  He first appears on the 1861 Census living with his parents at Boulter's Lock, Ray Mill Island, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

In 1871 the family is still living at Ray Mill Island, but Clifton is no longer the lock keeper.  Robert's occupation is listed as an architect and surveyor.  Sadly in 1873 Robert's mother Mary Ann passed away.

Susannah Sarah Davy was born Susannah Sarah Gunn in 1843 in Great Dunmow, Essex to John Perry Gunn, a hairdresser, and his wife Sarah Cross.  The first Census I can find Susannah on is the 1861 Census.  She's living with her parents and siblings John Cross, Henrietta, Henry, Edwin, George and Ellen Edith at West Street in Great Dunmow, Essex. In 1866 Susannah's mother Sarah was to pass away, followed later by her father John Perry in 1869.  In 1871 Susannah, listed as Sarah, is working as a governess for the Ricardo family at Ray Mead Cottage, Maidenhead.

In 1878 Robert marries Susannah Sarah Gunn and in 1879 they celebrate the birth of their son Clifton Robert Davy.  In 1881 the young family can be found living at 3 York Villas, York Road, Maidenhead.  Living with the family at the time were the widowed Clifton Davy and Susannah's sister Ellen Edith Gunn.  By 1891 the family, along with Robert's father Clifton, had moved to The Chestnuts, All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead where the family and Clifton Snr are still living in 1901.  Clifton Robert's occupation is listed as architect's assistant.  Sadly, Clifton Snr was to die later that year aged 86.  Robert Clifton was to follow his father in 1908. On 13th May 1908 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

" The Death Of Mr. R Clifton Davy

It is with profound regret that we record the death of Mr. Robert Clifton Davy, M.S.A., of 'The Chestnuts,' All Saints'-avenue, Maidenhead, a gentleman held in the highest esteem throughout the town and district. Mr. Davy, who practised in Maidenhead as an architect, and had been very successful in his profession, he had not been in good health for some time; he was susceptible to influenza, and whenever the malady was rife in the town he was almost a certain victim. The attacks had, of course a prejudicial effect on his hitherto robust constitution. In March a combination of aliments compelled him to take to his bed; his condition, however, was such ass to give not the slightest cause for apprehension, and when just before Easter he was able to get about again and resume work, it was thought that he had practically recovered. On Easter Tuesday, however, he was proceeding to the Easter Vestry at St Mary's Church, as one of the Churchwardens, he had a paralytic seizure in his office, and had to be conveyed to his home. He did not lose consciousness, and after a couple of weeks had expired it was thought he would recover. Unfortunately, Mr. Davy had another seizure on Wednesday morning last. This, alas! proved fatal, as he gradually sank and died at about 8 o'clock the same evening. He was attended throughout his illness by Dr. Wethered, who did all that was possible to save his patient's life.   

Mr. Davy was a native of Maidenhead. He was the only son of the late Mr. Clifton Davy, and was born on July, 2nd, 1851, being thus in his 57th year at the time of his death. He was educated privately, and was articled to the late Mr. Charles Cooper, architect, &c., of Maidenhead, subsequently joining him in partnership; upon Mr. Cooper decease, Mr. Davy too the entire control of the business. In 1893 Mr. Davy took into partnership Mr. Stephen Salter, but in 1905 there was a dissolution of the partnership, from which time his son had been associated with him in his practice. His architectural work throughout had been chiefly of a domestic character, and he has been responsible for the designing of a large number of the modern attractive residences in Berks, and to some extent in Surrey, notable amongst his designed residences in Berks being that of Bray Lodge (formerly the home of Mrs. Brown-Potter), probably the most-photographed residence of recent times. Many of the best and most picturesque dwellings in developed Maidenhead are from plans prepared in Mr. Davy's office, and it is to his artistic ability that Maidenhead owes much of its success from the point of view of its architecture. At the time of his death, Mr. Davy had in business with him his only son, Mr. Clifton Robert Davy.

The deceased gentleman was for nearly 25 years People's Churchwarden of St Mary's, Maidenhead, and he discharged the duties of the office with conspicuous ability, and enjoyed the fullest confidence of the vicars and parishioners whom he served in his responsible position. He was greatly interested in Freemasonry, and was a Past Master of the 'Ellington' lodge and a Past Junior Warden of the Province. As hon. secretary of the Maidenhead Auxiliary of the British and Foreign Bible Society, Mr. Davy rendered a world-famed society valuable service, and it was a matter of much regret to him that, owing to illness, he was unable to attend the last annual meeting of the local branch.

Mr. Davy, like most other folk, had his hobbies. These took the form of photography, bee-keeping, and floriculture. As an amateur photographer, he was very successful, and few professional artists could produce better work. On the occasion of any public bazaar in behalf of St Mary's Church, a corner was always reserved for Mr. Davy's photographs, which had a ready sale and now adorn the walls of many a home.

Mr. Davy married Susan Sarah, daughter of Mr. John Gunn, of Great Dunmow, Essex, who, with one son, mourn his loss.

Mr. Davy's courteous, unassuming demeanour and kindliness of heart, combined with his sterling Christian character, commanded respect and won affection, and his death is a distinct loss to the community. Mrs. Davy has been the recipient of many much-appreciated letters of condolence, and every reader of the Advertiser who was acquainted with Mr. Davy will join in expressing the deepest sympathy with the widow in her irreparable loss."   

In 1906 Clifton Jr married Ethel Rose Cooper in Maidenhead, Berkshire

In 1911 the widowed Susannah is still living at The Chestnuts, All Saints Avenue.  Visiting her at the time of the Census is her niece Ellen Florence Gunn.  Clifton and Ethel Rose, along with their daughter Evelyn Beatrice are living at the Boarding house of Myra Wood and Alice Cook, 50-51 Eversfield Place in Hastings, Sussex.


Susannah was to pass away on 14th July 1913. On 16th July 1913 the Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement:

"Deaths

Davy- On Jul 14th, Susannah Sarah, relict of Robert Clifton Davy, M.S.A."

Cemetery Sunday - Hands

A selection of various hands found on my wanderings.  What have you found this week?

The Hon. Emily Dulcibella Dickinson and Her Sisters, Hon. Florence Selina Eden and Hon. Maria Harriet Eden of Boyn Hill House - Daughters of 3rd Baron Auckland

Monument to Emily Dulcibella Dickinson, Florence Selina Eden and Maria Harriet Eden, All Saints' Churchyard, Boyne Hill, Maidenhead Berkshire.

"In affectionate remembrance of Emily Dulcibella wife of Edmund Dickinson.  Formerly of Berkley House Frome. And daughter of Lord Auckland.  Late Bishop of Bath & Wells. Died 27th January 1893 aged 60

Also to the memory of Florence Selina Eden 4th daughter of 3rd Baron Auckland.  Born January 6th 1835.  Died June 5th 1909.

Also to the memory of Maria Harriet Eden.  5th daughter of 3rd Baron Auckland.  Born September 14th 1836.  Died January 11th 1909."

Emily Dulcibella Dickinson was born Emily Dulcibella Eden in 1833, Florance Selina Eden was born in 1835, and Maria Harriet Eden was born in 1836 in Huntingfordbury, Hertfordshire to Robert John L Eden, 3rd Baron of Auckland, and Bishop of Bath & Wells, and his wife Mary Ann Hurt.

Emily and her sisters, Florence and Maria first appear on the 1841 Census living in the parish of Brixton, Surrey at The Vicarage with their parents and siblings.  By 1851 the family had moved to the Isle of Mann and where living at Bishop's Court.  By 1861 the family had again moved, this time to the "Palace" Wells St Andrew, Somerset.  Visiting the family at the time was Edmund Henry Dickinson, a banker from Somerset.

That same year Emily married Edmund Henry Dickinson, related to the Plantagenets through Lady Isabella Plantagenet.  In 1863 they celebrated the birth of their first son, Robert Edmund.  1864 saw the arrival of Philip Francis, 1866 saw the birth of their first daughter Violet Mary, and in 1870 their son Oswald Eden was born. However, Emily, Florence, and Maria's father, Robert Eden, 3rd Baron of Auckland was to pass away on 25th April 1870.

The 1871 Census finds Emily, her husband, and children living at Berkley, Somerset.  Florance and Maria are living with their widowed mother Mary Ann at 11 Chamberlain Street, Wells, Somerset.

1881 Emily and Edmund have moved again, this time to 17 Berkley Street, Middlesex, London.  Living with them at the time is their daughter Violet.  Robert Edmund is a pupil at Trinity College in Cambridge.  I am unable to trace Philip Francis on the 1881 Census.  Oswald Eden is a boarding pupil at Pembroke Lodge School in Somerset. Florence and Maria can be found living together at Maidenhead Road, Cookham Berkshire, with their three servants.

In 1891 both Emily and Violet are visiting the Nelthrop family in Lincolnshire.  Joining them are Emily's sisters Florence Selina, and Maria Harriet.  Edmund can be found in the 1891 Census living in Westbury in Wiltshire.  I am unable to trace both Robert Edmund, and Oswald Eden on the 1891 Census, however Robert Edmund Dickinson becomes mayor of Bath in 1899 until 1900.  Philip Francis can be found visiting the McCall family at Little Barwick House in Somerset. 

Sadly, two years later in 1893 Emily passed away and was buried at All Saints Churchyard in Maidenhead.  Edmund was to follow her four years later in 1897.

In 1901 Violet Mary is living with her younger brother Oswald Eden, now a secretary of a building society, at 21 Manchester Street in Marylebone, London.  I am unable to find either Robert or Philip on the 1901 Census. Florence and Maria are now living at 27, Boyn Hill House, Boyn Hill Avenue, Maidenhead, Berkshire.  On 11th January 1909 Maria was to pass away at home aged 72. Nearly five months later Florence was to pass away on 5th June 1909 aged 74. On the 9th June 1909 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"EDEN. 

The death took place early on Saturday morning at her residence, Boyn Hill, of the Hon. Florence Selina Eden. The deceased lady had been in failing health for some two years and in February last was obliged to take to her bed. She gradually became weaker and passed peacefully away as above stated. Throughout her illness she was attended by Dr. Moore. The Hon. Florence Eden was the fourth daughter of the third Lord Auckland, and was 74 years of age. She and her sister, the Hon. Maria Eden, who, it will be remembered, died in January last, were very highly esteemed in Maidenhead, and particularly so in the Boyn Hill district, their many charitable works and kindly interest in their poorer neighbours being well-known, and they will be greatly missed. 

Both ladies were generous supporters of All Saints' Church and schools, and all parochial institutions had their warmest sympathy and support. The deceased ladies had resided in the Boyn Hill district for upwards of a quarter of a century. The Hon. Florence Eden was until quite recently president of the Ladies' Committee of the Maidenhead Cottage Hospital, which position she resigned on account of ill-health. She was a great friend to the institution, and rendered the management valuable service; she also contributed generously by gifts of money and in kind towards its maintenance. All Saints' parish in particular, and the town generally, have sustained a great loss by the decease of these ladies, and they will be greatly missed. 

The funeral of the Hon. Florence Eden took place yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon. at All Saints' Church, Boyn Hill. The coffin containing the deceased lady's remains was borne on a bier from Boyn Hill House to the church, where it was met at the entrance by the Vicar (Canon Drummond), the Rev. A. Newton, and the Rev. W. D. Hawken (curate) and the choir. Inside the church the Rev. A. Newton read the lessons and Canon Drummond took the remainder of the service. Hymn 538, " They whose life on earth is o'er," was impressively sung. As the procession passed down the nave the Nunc Dimittis was chanted, and during the procession to the grave the hymn, "Brief life is here our portion, was effectively sung. In addition to the relatives and other mourners, there was a large congregation in the church, and at the graveside these were joined by many others, a large concourse of persons witnessing the interment.

There were many manifestations of sorrow and sympathy, not the least affected of those present being Canon Drummond, who took the committal portion of the service, and who was a personal friend of the deceased lady. The service concluded with hymn 429, "On the Resurrection morning." The body of the deceased was in a shell with an outer coffin of polished oak, with solid brass fittings, and on the breast-plate was the following inscription : 

"The Honourable Florence Selina Eden; born January 21ith,184; died June 3th,.1909." 

The grave was lined with begonias, carnations, chrysanthemums, arum and other flowers, this being the work of deceased's late gardener, Mr. W. Thatcher. The following were the mourners :—Hon. Henley (brother) and Mrs. Eden, Lord Auckland (nephew), Hon. Geo. Eden, B. H. H. Eden and W. A. Eden (nephews), Miss Dickinson (niece), Messrs. Henry Paget, Eden Paget, Hugh Paget and Eric Paget (nephews), Mr. and Mrs. Wallace, Mr. Geo. Hurt (cousin), Mr. B. Harris (solicitor), Nurse Peck, Miss Dormer, Miss Churchman, and Mr. and Mrs. Dymott. There were also present: Mr. J. W. Duncan and Mr. B. Hobbis (churchwardens). W. G. Sawyer and Miss Sawyer, Mrs. Armitage, Miss Goodden, Mr. W. J. Robson. and many others connected with All Saints' and St. Paul's Churches.

There were about 30 beautiful wreaths and other floral tokens, and these were sent by the following:—Hon. Mr. and Mrs. Eden, wreath; Mr. Hurt, The Priory, Datchet, wreath; Mr. and Mrs. Thatcher, wreath; the household. K.A.M., wreath; Mrs. and Miss Fox, Porchester House. Maidenhead, cross; Capt. and Mrs. Charles Pretyman, Boyne Holme, wreath; Miss Forbes, Boyn Hill Cottage, cross; Mrs. Wasey. 7, Boyn Hill-avenue, wreath; Mr., Mrs. and Miss Wootton; Boyne Grove, wreath; Mrs. W. Wigram, cross; Almshouses (inmates), sheaf; Mrs. J. S. Davies, Oakcroft, cross; Mr. and Mrs. Dymott, harp, Jim and Claude Paget, sheaf; Miss Barnard, The Liberty Wells, cross; Mr. R. and Mrs. Eden. wreath; Hon. Mrs. Sutton, Nelthorp, sheaf; Rev. and Mrs. Murray Gawne, wreath; Hon. Agnes Eden, Ford House, Wandford, chaplet; Hon. Mrs. Chetwynd, cross; Boyn Hill Gymnastic Club, wreath; Mr. and Mrs. Wallace, wreath; Eden and Gertrude Paget, wreath; Lord Auckland, two large wreaths; Eric Paget, wreath. 

The funeral arrangements were very satisfactorily carried out by Messrs. J. C. Webber Sons, Ltd., under the personal superintendence of Mr. J. C. Webber. The Hon. H. Eden desires to thank all those who sent wreaths, on the occasion of the funeral yesterday (Tuesday)."

Florance left money to various charities in her will. On 28th July 1909 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"WILLS OF MAIDENHEAD LADIES. £2OO TO THE MAIDENHEAD COTTAGE HOSPITAL. 

The Hon. Florence Selina Eden, of Boyn Hill House, Maidenhead, daughter of the third Baron Auckland, whose death occurred on the 5th of June, left an estate of the gross value of £220.999 3s. 7d., Including net personalty of £219,887 1s. 3d. Probate of her will, with a codicil attached, has been granted to her brother, the Hon. Robert Henley Shaw Eden. of Tyddillan, Corwen, Merioneth, and Mr. Robert Hildyard Henley Eden, of Sherborne, Dorset, nephew of deceased, two of the executors, her sister the Hon. Maria Harriet Eden, the other executor, having died in the lifetime of deceased. Testatrix by her will bequeathed to the Additional Curates Society £200; to the Maidenhead Cottage Hospital, £200; the Universal Central African Minion, £100; and to All Saints' Church Fund, Maidenhead, £100. The residue of her estate goes to her brother absolutely."

Interestingly Violet Mary Dickinson complied her great aunt Emily Eden's letters and published them into a book called Miss Eden's letters, which is available to preview through Google Books.

Young Winifred Alice Hurd and her mother Alice Martha Hurd of the Two Brewers Public House and The Star Inn, Maidenhead Berkshire.

Monument to Winifred Alice Hurd and Alice Martha Hurd, All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

"In loving memory of Winifred Alice Hurd died June 1st 1913 aged 14 years.  Also Alice Martha.  Mother of the above died Novr 25th 1913 aged 41 years - At Rest -"

Winifred Alice was born in 1899 in Maidenhead Berkshire to Walter John Hurd, a publican, and his wife Alice Martha Purnell.

She first appears with her family on the 1901 Census aged 2, living at the Two Brewers Public House 134 - 136 High Street, Maidenhead.  She next appears on the 1911 Census aged 11 years.  The family has moved from the Two Brewers and are now living in and running The Star, 23 Broadway, Maidenhead.  Another family I have researched ran The Star in 1881, The McGregor family.

Sadly, Winifred was to pass away on June 1st 1913, aged just 14 years.  In the November of 1913 her mother Alice followed her to the grave.

Alice Martha Hurd was born Alice Martha Purnell in 1872 to John Purnell, a carpenter and upholsterer, and his wife Martha Norris.

She first appears on the 1881 Census aged 8, living with her father and stepmother Caroline, and her younger brother John born 1875, and half-brother Albert born 1878, at 7 Kate Street, Streatham, London.  Alice's mother Martha died in 1875.

In 1891 Alice, aged 19, is living with her uncle William Purnell, a dining room keeper, and her grandmother Anne Purnell, in Acton, Ealing.

On 26th September 1898, Alice married Walter John Hurd, a widower at St Mary's church, Acton, Ealing, Middlesex.  On 1st April 1899 they celebrated the birth of their only child, Winifred Alice.  Sadly, Alice was to pass away on November 25th 1913, five months after the death of her daughter Winifred. On 26th November 1913 the Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement:

"Deaths

Hurd- November 25th, at Ivydale, St. Mark's-road, after a long and painful illness, the wife of John Hurd, late of The Star, Broadway, aged 41."

The Tangled Life of Emma Margaret Hawkins and Her Husband John Lane Hawkins - Husband's Second Family

Monument to Emma Margaret Hawkins, John Lane Hawkins, Arthur Clark, Ione Lane Clark, Ethel Lane Clark, and Susan Molly Cuthbert.  All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

"In loving memory of a dear mother and wife Emma Margaret Hawkins who died November 10th 1914 aged 71 years

John Lane Hawkins beloved husband of the above died Sept 27th 1918

Arthur Clark died April 4th 1934

Our dear mother Ethel Lane Clark, died March 31st 1953 aged 84 years

Ione died Jan 28th 1971

In loving memory of Susan Molly Cuthbert aged 9 years"

Emma Margaret Hawkins was born Emma Margaret Crocker on 22nd September 1843 to Albert John Crocker, a warehouseman, and his wife Charlotte Hawkins.  Emma first appears on the 1851 Census living with her parents and siblings at Goose Green in East Dulwich.  Unfortunately I have been unable to trace Emma on the 1861 Census.

On 12th January 1865 in St Lukes Parish, Camberwell, Emma married John Lane Hawkins.

John Lane Hawkins was born on 15th January 1841 to John Hawkins, a surveyor and stockbroker, and his wife Wilhelmina.

Both John and Emma Margaret appear on the 1871 census visiting Emma's sister Alice Marion and her husband Edward Thomas Irving at 12 St Stephen's Square, Paddington, London, not long after the birth of their fourth child, a daughter Millicent Lane.  Thier first child, a daughter Amy Constance had sadly died in 1870 aged only 4 years.  Their second child, a daughter Ethel Lane was born in 1868, and their third child, a son Percy Lane were being looked after by the Miller family in 1871

1881 finds John and Emma living at 54 Queensborough Terrace in Kensington, London with their daughter Millicent.  John's occupation at the time is listed as a share dealer and stock exchange.  Percy Lane is a boarding pupil at Eton College.  Ethel Lane is a boarding pupil at 26 Wilbury Road, Hove, Brighton.

In 1891 John is living at 14 Somerset Street with is daughters Ethel, and Millicent, while Emma is in Hove, Brighton visiting her mother, Charlotte.  I am unable to locate Percy on the 1891 Census.

In 1892 Percy Lane married Ethel Evelyn Baker

On 22nd June 1895 Ethel Lane Hawkins married Arthur William Clark.  Both John Lane and Emma Margaret are witnesses to the marriage.

In 1897 Millicent Lane Hawkins passes away.

Now here's where things get interesting.

In 1901 Emma is living on her own in her Kensington home with her parlour maid, she is listed as married.  However, on the same Census John her husband is living in Westminster with a lady called Christine, who is listed as his wife.  Living with them is their son John Noel who was born in 1892.

In 1901 Ethel and her husband Arthur Clark are living at Pine View in Parkstone, Dorset with their children Brian Lane born in 1896, Ione Lane born in 1897, and Nancy Lane born in 1900. Nancy Lane Clark passes away in 1908 aged 7 years

In 1901 Percy Hawkins and his wife Ethel are living in Kensal Green in London with their children Iris born in 1894, and Vivian born in 1897.  Percy Lane Hawkins passes away in 1908 aged 41 years

In 1911 John can again be found living with Christine who is listed as his wife of 30 years in Jersey.  Whereas Emma Margaret can be found still listed as married living in Boyn Hill Avenue, Maidenhead with her only surviving child Ethel Lane Clark, and her grandchildren Ione Lane Clark, and Molly Lane Clark born in 1909.  I have been unable to locate Ethel's husband Arthur William Clark on the 1911 Census.

Percy and Ethel's daughter Iris Hawkins was a talented actress. On 29th June 1912 in Westminster, London, Iris married Reginald H Lumley. The Berkshire Chronical reported on 29th June 1912:

"CHILD ACTRESS

WEDDING TO-DAY

QUIET CEREMONY IN LONDON

The dainty little actress, Miss. Iris Hawkins, so well-known as a player of 'child parts,' and generally referred to by critics as 'Little Miss Hawkins,' was married to-day from Bailey Hotel, London. The ceremony took place at a registry office, the bridegroom being an equally well-known theatrical gentleman, Mr. Reginald Lumley, who under the nom de theatre of 'Ewart Mackinnon' has written several small comedies.  

MAIDENHEAD RESIDENCE

Miss Hawkins, who resides with her grandmother Mrs. John Lane Hawkins, at 'Frankfield,' Boyn Hill Avenue, Maidenhead has been on the stage for nine years, her appearances always being in child parts. these parts no doubt will be her especial study for some time, for although she is 19 years old, she does not look more than 12. Her voice has still the infant ring in it, while she is as vivacious and unaffected as the merriest of little girls. She made her first appearance in 1903, her part being the little fairy in 'The Cricket on the Hearth. Later she appeared with great success as the boy Derek in Sir Arthur Pinero’s comedy 'His House in Order,' at the St. James’s, and she was also an adorable little Pinkie in 'Pinkie and the Fairies’' at His Majesty’s in 1908. Perhaps the best piece of character work she has yet done was as the precocious child Myrtle in Pinero’s ‘Preserving Mr. Panmure.' Miss Hawkins has also been seen on the music hall stage, the piece in which she appeared being ‘'Expert Opinion,' a neat little comedy sketch which was written by the bridegroom of to-day. Mr. Lumley resides at 134, Piccadilly, London, his parents living at Cookham Gate. The ceremony, which took at noon, was of a very quiet character. The bride who was attired in white charmeuse lace tunic and lace bodice with chiffon coat over it, with charmeuse belt caught on one side with blue and orange blossom, and to saxe blue and leghorn hat, was given away by the son of the late Bishop of London, Mr. Walter Crieighton, of His Majesty's Theatre. She wore also a pearl necklace, the gift of her aunt, Mrs. George Hawkins. Two maids of honour attended her in Miss Viva Hawkins (her sister),who wore a diamond and pearl pendant, the gist of the bridegroom, and Miss. Kathleen Molyneux, who wore a diamond brooch, also given by Mr. Lumley. Mr. Charles Lumley, brother of the bridegroom, gave the bride away. 

BRIDE IN ACCIDENT

The bride was on Tuesday evening last concerned in a motor-car accident, which, but for the presence of mind of the chauffeur, would have resulted in more serious results. the rear of the car was smashed, and the windscreen shattered, the falling glass cutting Miss Hawkins on the forehead and hand, and the chauffeur slightly on the arm. They were attended by a doctor, the cut on Miss Hawkins hand requiring two stitches. Happily, however, the effects of the accident and practically disappeared at to-day's ceremony.

After the ceremony the happy pair proceeded to the New Forest, where they will spend a week, after which they will go abroad, returning home through Paris." 

John and Christine had three children together, including John Noel.  Dorothy Christine Hawkins born 8th October 1882, and Barbara Mary Hawkins born in 1889

Sadly, Emma Margaret was to pass away at Frankfield, Boyn Hill Avenue, Maidenhead 10th November 1914.

Not long after Emma's death, John Lane finally married Christine, who gave her last name as Hawkins at the time of their marriage in the December of 1914. Their joy was to be short lived as their only son Captain John Noel Hawkins was killed in action on 30th July 1916 whilst serving with The Manchester Regiment. John Lane Hawkins was to pass away on 27th September 1918

In 1828 Ethel's daughter and Emma's grand-daughter Molly Lane Clark married Sydney A Cuthbert in Kensington London.  Molly and Sydney had a daughter together in 1934, Susan Molly Cuthbert, who was to sadly pass away at the age of 7.  Her tiny marker can be seen in the foreground of the above picture.

In 1924 Ione Lane Clark married George F Playfair Watkins

Arthur William Clark passes away on 4th April 1934, leaving Ethel Lane a widow.  On the 1939 England and Wales Register, the widowed Ethel can be found living in Maidenhead her daughter Molly Lane Cuthbert, her husband Sydney Cuthbert, and her daughter Ione Lane Watkins. Ione was to pass away in 1971

I have been unable to trace Christine Hawkins after 1911.

Cemetery Sunday - In Our Hearts Forever

Small angel and heart grave decoration found at All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire UK.



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Barbarina Field, Her Husband John Field of Stubbings Farm, and Thier Daughter Sarah Ann Powlesland - Slumber Together

Monuments to Barbarina Field, John Field, and Sarah Ann Powlesland, St James the Less churchyard, Stubbings, Berkshire

"In loving remembrance of Barbarina, beloved wife of John Field who died April 24th 1881 aged 52 years - Not my will O Lord, but thine be done - "

"In loving remembrance of John Field of Stubbings Farm Bisham.  Late of Chalford and Nethercote House <ilegible> who departed this life March 22nd 1891 aged 69 years - In such an hour as ye think not.  The son of man cometh. Matt 22:44"

"In loving memory of Sarah Ann Powlesland daughter of John and Barbarina Field passed peacefully away November 30th 1908 aged 52 years - Gone but not forgotten-"

John Field was born on 6th May 1823 in Chalford Gloucestershire (some sources place his birth in Chalgrove Oxfordshire, where John was christened), to John Field, a farmer and his wife Harriet Welles.  He first appears on the 1841 Census aged living on his parent's farm in Chalford along with his elder siblings Elizabeth, and Harriet and his younger siblings Mary and Daniel.

In 1847 John married Barbarina Lee in Oxfordshire.

Babarina Lee was born in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire to William Lee, a farmer, and his wife Mary Gibbons.

Barbarina first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 12 living, with Henry Douglas and his family on his farm in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

John and Barbarina next appear on the 1851 Census in Little Missenden in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire living and working the 158 acre Affricks Farm.  Living with them are their two infant daughters, Lucy aged 2, born in 1849, and Louisa Barbarina (listed as Barbarina) aged 3 months, born in 1850.

In 1861 John and Barbarina have returned to Chalford and are now farming 270 acres of land.  The family has expanded to include Mary born in 1851, John born in 1852, George born in 1853, Ellen born in 1854, Sarah Ann born in 1855, William Lee born in 1856, Emily born in 1858, and Laura born in 1860.  Strangely Lucy is missing from the family, I am unable to trace her on the 1861, not am I able to find a death index for her.

In 1871 John and Barbarina are farming 346 acres at Nethercote House in Oxfordshire.  The family has since expanded to include Lizzie, born in 1861 who during the 1871 Census is at a boarding school in Thame with her elder sister Emily, Chrisse born in 1862 who sadly died aged 2 in 1865, Albert Victor born in 1864 and Herbert G born in 1865, sadly both Albert and Herbert were to pass away on 10th October 1871, James Alfred born in 1867 who sadly passed away that same year, Barbarina born in 1868, and Leonard born in 1869.

Leonard Field later went on to marry Fanny Edwicker, daughter of Charles Edwicker, gamekeeper of Maidenhead Thicket.

Sarah Ann and her sister Mary are living with their maternal grandfather William Lee at Stubbings Farm.

In 1880 Sarah Ann married her first husband Frederick English, a butcher.

After the death of Barabrins Sr's father William Lee in 1880, Stubbings Farm passed to the Field family.  John and Barnarina, along with their daughters Emily and Laura can be found there in 1881.

Sarah Ann and Frederick are living and working at 60 High Street, Kensington, London.

Sadly, Babarina was to pass away on 24th April 1881. 

In 1882 John married Martha Ann Neighbour in Wallingford.

On 22nd March 1891 John passed away at Stubbings Farm, Berkshire. After John's death a lot of his property was sold at auction on 4th December 1891. The Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following advertisement on 2nd December 1891:

"Stubbings Farm, Birchetts [sic] Green Mid-way between Marlow and Maidenhead. 

THE whole of the EXCELLENT HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, comprising mahogany dining-table, mahogany sofa and chairs in leather, chimney glasses, fender and fireirons, 6ft. mahogany sideboard, with cellarette and drawers, Brussels and Kidderminster carpets, pianoforte in walnut, 4ft. 6in. marble top walnut cheffioneer, with plate-glass back and panels. 2 mahogany card tables. 6 and 1 armchair in mahogany, with damask seats, mahogany Arabian and iron bedsteads, feather beds and bedding, spring and wool mattresses, mahogany marble top washstands, mahogany chest of drawers, dressing tables, toilet glasses, 8-day clock and case, 2 Milner's iron deed safes, glass, china, linen, plate, and plated articles, kitchen utensils, 6 doz. churn, milk lead, 16 milk tins, butter river, milk pails, and effects, will be sold by Auction by MUMFORD & BOND, on the premises, on Friday, December 4, 1891, by direction of the Executors of the late Mr. John Field, deceased, Sale to commence at 10.30 o'clock. Catalogues arc in circulation and may be had at the place of sale, or of the Auctioneers, Brill and Thame." 

After the death of her husband Frederick in 1889, Sarah Ann moved back to Stubbings Farm, now run by her younger brother Leonard.  In 1891 Sarah can be found living at Stubbings Farm along with her brother Leonard and stepmother Martha Ann.  Visiting the family at the time was John Charles Powlesland, a tobacconist.  Sarah Ann married John Charles later that year. Marth Ann never remarried and passed away in 1914 in Oxfordshire.

In 1901 Sarah Ann and John are living at 23 West Park Road, Ealing, London.  Sadly, Sarah Ann passed away on 30th November 1908.  1911 finds the widowed John living with his brother in Surrey.

First World War Commonwealth War Grave - Stoker First Class Arthur Fletcher Ada, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Pheobe - Hero of the Zeebrugge Triumph

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 

Arthur Fletcher Ada was born in Maidenhead in 1882 to John Fletcher Ada a draper, and his wife Mary Ann East.

 

Arthur first appears on the 1891 Census aged 8 living with his parents and his elder siblings, Mary, John and William, at 6 Queen Street.

 

In 1901 Arthur is working at as a draper's assistant at at large department store, 12-17 St Andrew's street in Cambridge.

 

In 1911 Arthur is back in Maidenhead and running his own drapery business from 11 Queen street in Maidenhead.

 

After the outbreak of Wolrd War I, Arthur enlisted in the Royal Navy in the September 1916.  Arthur became a Stoker First Class on the H.M.S Phoebe and unfortunately lost his life due to enemy action during the Raid of Zeebrugge.

 

Arthur was considered a hero by those he left behind in Maidenhead, which his obituary in published in the Maidenhead Advertiser leaves us in no doubt.

 

"A Maidenhead Hero

 

Killed in the Zeebrugge Triumph

Public Honours for Stoker A. F. Ada

Great victories are not bought without a price, and Maidenhead has paid its tragic toll for the thrilling Nelson-like triumph at Zeebrugge. Mingled with last week's joy were the tears of bereavement at losing in that memorable enterprise one of our best-known and best-loved younger tradesmen - a man who belonged to a family that has for three generations been respected for their zeal in the religious, social and commercial life of the town. Mr Arthur Fletcher Ada, content to serve as a humble stoker in the Navy when he saw the beacon-call of duty,has laid down his life at the young age of 35, finding glory in the commonplace and forfeiting by the cruel irony of fate, perhaps by months only, the grand climacteris of domestic joy which most men reach. The public honours done our latest local hero were commensurate with his personal worth as with his unshrinking patriotism. He surely died doubly nobly; for it was when his watch below was done he went aloft to do merciful work in tending wounded mates, and while at that task he was struck by a shell and died very soon after.
Arthur Fletcher Ada was the third son of the late Mr John Ada, of the firm of Ada & Co., drapers, Queen-street, established many years ago. He was educated at Maidenhead Modern School. As a young man he succeeded to the business and worked at it in conjunction with his brother-in-law (Mr Leach) as partner. His prowess as a swimmer was well known all around this district, for he carried off many prizes in the swimming carnivals in the old days. In religious circles he was prominent as financial secretary to the Baptist Church in Marlow Road, and further as the organist there for about 12 years. In recent times he took a big share in forming the V.T.C., of which he became an active member.

He joined H.M. Navy in September 1916, and proceeded to his training at Chatham and other naval stations. He became attached to H.M.S. Phoebe as stoker. When he was home last, only a fortnight ago last Monday, he was aware of some great naval move being imminent, but his friends little thought they had seen him for the last time. The Destroyer on which he was serving was covering the "Vindictive", and towards the end of the engagement he had just left his watch below and had gone on deck to help in rescuing the survivors of one other of our Destroyers which had gone down. It was early on the morning of St. George's Day, April 23rd, when our brave fellow townsman was doing this extra duty at rescuing that he was struck by an enemy shell and expired almost immediately.
Petty-Officer Attridge was sent to apprise the family of the details of Mr Ada's death, and he also brought with him the verbal sympathy of the captain, officers and mess of the Destroyer, as well as three wreaths to be placed over the remains, Mrs. Ada having desired that the body might be sent home for burial.

The sympathy with deceased relatives and his betrothed, Miss Jessie Bloomfield, is very deep and widespread, and was given expression to at the funeral on Monday, and by shoals of lettes received."

 

 

A further report was made on the funeral -

 

"The funeral took place on Monday afternoon, and was a public tribute to the quiet esteem in which the deceased was held by all classes. Most of the tradesmen's shops had black boards, and blinds were generally drawn. Opposite the Baptist Church, the V.A.D. Red Cross flag was drooping at half mast. A squad of the Maidenhead Volunteers, under Lieut. Voules, formed the guard of honour. The coffin, which was covered with the Union Jack and many lovely wreaths, was carried on the shoulders of half-a-dozen local bluejackets under chief petty officer A. Emberley, viz., petty officer, 1st class, Riches; leading seaman Carter (wounded from East Africa); leading stoker Maybury; and an air mechanic Royal Naval Air Arm, and an A.B. Both the latter were on leave and volunteered to act as bearers. The undertakers were Messrs Partlo Bros., friends of the deceased.

On the rostrum were the Pastor (Rev. T. Wreford Way) and Rev. T.F.Lewis, of the Congregational Church; and among the crowded congregation were the Mayor (Mr C.W.Cox, J.P., C.C.), who also attended at the graveside, and Ald. Truscott, J.P., and Councillor O.T. Chamberlain, J.P. The chief mourners were: Mrs Ada (mother), Mr John E. Ada (brother), Mr F.W.Leach and Mrs Leach (brother-in-law and sister), Mr Richardson (uncle), Miss Ada (sister), Mr S. East (uncle), Mrs Sutton (cousin), Mr W. V. Bloomfield and Mr A.G Bloomfield.

 

Wreaths and other floral tokens of sympathy were sent by the following:- >From his own Jess; mother, brothers and sisters; Mr and Mrs Bloomfield, Rosa and Alfred; Lance-Corpl. Edmund Bloomfield; The Staff at 11, Queen Street; The Marlow Road Baptist Choir and Church; Mrs Eadres, 36, Town Wall Street, Dover; T.W.Naller and R. Coates, HMS Phoebe; from Messmates of HMS Phoebe; from Frank Trevoe; Members of 1st Berks Volunteer Regt,"C" Co., Maidenhead; Maidenhead Fire Brigade; Mr and Mrs H. Andrews and Mrs Goodman; Mr and Mrs. J. W. Goldsmith and Winnie; Mr and Mrs Reeves; Mr and Mrs Harold H Neve; Mr and Mtrs Hunt; Mr and Mrs John Tomlinson, and Frank."

 

Jessie Caroline Bloomfield, a music teacher and Arthur's fiancee never married and later passed away in Devon in 1967

Arthur was like so many brave men that left their family and loved ones to fight, and never came back alive.



Eliza Edwicker, Wife of Charles Edwicker - Gamekeeper of Maidenhead Thicket.

 

Monument to Eliza Edwicker, St James the Less Churchyard, Stubbings, Berkshire.

 

 

"In loving memory of our mother Eliza the dearly beloved wife of Charles Edwicker who fell alseep May 14th 1890 aged 55 years - The Lord is my Shepherd."

 

 

Eliza Edwicker was born Eliza Hilton in 1835 in Woolavington, Sussex, to Thomas Hilton, a farm labourer, and his wife Ruth Hilton.

 

Eliza first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 6, living with her parents and siblings in Norwood, Woolavinton, Sussex. That same year Eliza's mother Ruth passes away

On the 1851 census Eliza, 16-years-old, is living with her widowed father Thomas and her younger siblings, Thomas, and Charlotte.  Unfortunately, I am unable to locate Eliza on the 1861 Census.

 

On 26th October 1865 in South Bersted, Sussex, Eliza married Charles Edwicker, a gamekeeper, and son of William Edwicker, an agricultural labourer and his wife Ann Randall.  Eliza and Charles's first child, a daughter Eliza was born in 1867, followed by Ann in 1868, and lastly Fanny in 1870.  

On the 1871 Census the family is living on the Bath Road, Wargrave, Berkshire.  By 1881, Eliza, Charles, Ann, and Fanny had moved to Stubbings Cottages, Nr Stubbings House, Stubbings Berkshire.  Eliza Jr had gained employment as a domestic nurse for Ann Firth, an 84-year-old widow, and her family, living at 37 Curzon Street, St Werburgh, Derbyshire.

 

Life in the Edwicker household had to be a stressful one due to Charles's occupation as a Gamekeeper.  There were always poachers to be dealt with. 

 

 In 1883 Charles Edwicker found himself in front of the Summer Assizes on the charge of Unlawful shooting with a wilful intent to cause bodily harm.  On 3rd February 1883 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"SERIOUS CHARGE AGAINST A GAMEKEEPER. 

At the County Police Court, Maidenhead, on Saturday, (before T. J. Hercy and I. J. I. Pocock, Esqrs.)—

Charles Edwicker, gamekeeper on Maidenhead Thicket, was charged by Walter Edwards, with having, on the 24th of January, unlawfully, maliciously, and feloniously shot him with a gun loaded with gunpowder and shot. Prosecutor stated that on the day in question he was crossing Maidenhead Thicket when he saw a rabbit lying. He picked it up, and while putting it into his basket, he looked round and saw the gamekeeper Edwicker. He ran away, and Edwicker called out "Stop, or I'll shoot you." This was repeated six times, but he kept on running. He looked round and saw Edwicker raise his gun to shoot. He then went a little further, when he heard the report of the gun, and felt the shots strike him. Dr. Plumbe extracted shot from his finger. He was also struck on his ear and leg. He had no ferret. Henry Mayne corroborated this evidence. Dr. Plumbe was called, and he proved extracting the shot from Edwards. P.c. Goddard spoke to arresting Edwicker. Witness asked him for some shot, and he replied that he had none. 

Edwicker stated that he saw Edwards ferreting on the day in question, and observed him put the ferret and a rabbit in his basket, and run away. He followed him, and in going through the bushes the trigger caught and the gun went off. He stopped immediately, and went and told his master, Mr. Wethered. The Bench considered it a very serious charge, and committed prisoner to take his trial at the assizes. Bail was offered and accepted, defendant in 50/., and two sureties of 50/. each. Edwicker left the court amid hisses and groans from a numerous and excited crowd."

Charles was later found not guilty at the assizes in July the same year. 

 

Even one of my husband's ancestors Walter Turner had a run in with Charles Edwicker on 30th March 1885.  He was apparently caught trespassing on Maidenhead Thicket setting wires for rabbits.  His defence was that he was on his way to the brick kilns at Pinkney's Green.  Walter was fined 20s with 9s and 6d costs by the County Bench.  He was allowed time to pay.

 

In another case of poaching, Charles Edwicker was threatened with bodily harm by those he apprehended.  The Slough Eton and Windsor Observer reported -

 

"Edwicker said that he saw the men ferreting and beating a bush with a stick each, and that he went up to them and said, 'You can't say I haven't caught you fair this time!.'  He added that William Cartland threatened to beat his brains out if he didn't forgive them."

 

On 14th May 1890, Eliza sadly passed away.

 

The 1891 Census shows the recently widowed Charles, and his daughter Fanny still living at Stubbings Cottage.  At the age of 52 Charles is still working as the Maidenhead Thicket gamekeeper. That same year Fanny was brutally beaten at her home by Henry Knight. On the 14th October 1891 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

" BRUTAL ASSAULT ON A YOUNG WOMAN. 

Henry Knight, a tramp, 23, standing 5ft., was charged with having assaulted and beaten Fanny Edwicker, on Saturday evening. The complainant. who appeared weak and ill, was allowed to be seated while she gave her evidence. She said that she lived at Stubbings Lodge, with her father, who was a gamekeeper. On Saturday evening defendant called at the house and asked if the keeper was in, and he said something about a man leaving a brewer's, and then said he supposed witness would see the keeper to-morrow, and she said she would. Defendant then asked if he was at a public-house, and she said she did not think he was. The defendant, she continued, then came at me with the stick produced (a very thick hedge-stake) and knocked me down„ and then hit me while I was down. I tried to protect myself, but could not do so. I do not remember anything more. I afterwards found that defendant was gone. While defendant was beating me I cried "Mercy!" When defendant was gone I went up-stairs and screamed out of the window for the gardener's wife, and she came. 

General Thompson: I see you are very ill now; is that in consequence of the treatment you received? Witness: Yes, sir. 

Defendant declared that the complainant robbed him of £1 10s. Miss Edwicker denied this, and her father explained that about three weeks ago the defendant worked for him, but he got drunk, and he told him on the day following that he should not require him after the next Saturday. He told defendant that there would be 17s. due to him, but as he was going on the road he gave him £1 to assist him. He last saw defendant a week ago that day, and he then told witness that he had been to Cardiff to "Barnum's Show," and that he lost his watch while there. He denied that he owed the defendant anything, declaring that he gave him 3s. more than was really due to him. The accused was remanded in custody till the Petty Sessions."

 

Eliza Jr is working as a domestic servant for the Wilkinson family at Auckland house in Surrey.

 

I cannot locate Ann on the 1891 Census, but in 1901 she is working as a parlour maid for the Wainer family at 10 Brechin Place, Kensington, London.

It seems that Charles had a reputation as a fast walker. On the 6th June 1894 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"A correspondent sends me the following :— A bet having been made by a tradesman at Hurley with Mr. Charles Edwicker, better known as 'Flash,' of Maidenhead Thicket fame, to the effect that the latter could not walk from the Crown Inn, at Birchett's [sic] Green, to the Hurdle-maker's Arms, Crazies Hill, a distance of about three-and-half miles, in 40 minutes, 'Flash,' on Wednesday evening last, tried his luck over the course in question, and succeeded in winning his bet in easy fashion, walking the whole distance in 38½  minutes. The course was a very rough, hilly, and slippery one, and Edwicker, in a very sportsmanlike manner, refused to take advantage of open gates, but crossed the stiles, and, moreover, stopped on the way to drink a glass of beer. The winner of the bet entertained a party of friends to a capital leg-of-mutton supper after his splendid exhibition of walking. Mr. C. Lowe acted as referee, and Mr. W. Lowe as timekeeper." 

In 1895 Charles married Sarah Elizabeth Martine in Wokingham, Berkshire. In 1899 their only child Arthur Charles Edwicker was born.

 

In 1896 Fanny married Leonard Field, a farmer.

The 1901 Census finds Charles and Sarah Elizabeth living with two-year-old Arthur at Brightwell, Oxfordshire where Charles is employed as a game keeper. However, Sarah Elizabeth was soon to be in trouble with the law. On 21st March 1903 the Wiltshire Telegraph reported:

"(County Petty Sessions) At the same Court, before Dr. Maurice and Mr. Giffard, Sarah Elizabeth Edwicker, the wife of Charles Edwicker, a gamekeeper of Rudge Froxfield, was summoned for being drunk on the highway at Ramsbury whilst having charge of a child under seven years of age, on February 4th. The proceedings were taken under the new Licensing Act.—The Bench considered this a very bad case. It was sad to see a person of defendant’s respectable appearance in that position, but what was worst of all was that she should allow a child of that tender age to be in that condition.

Defendant: I merely gave him a little drop.

The Chairman: We cannot do less than fine you £l.

Defendant: I am very, very sorry."

Charles was to pass away in 1909 in Newbury Berkshire. The 1911 Census finds the widowed Sarah and her young son Arthur living with her sister Eliza Emily and her husband William Neat at 12 Landscape Terrence, Horn Lane, Woodford Green, Essex.  Arthur would later go on to serve in the Frist World War, he was to be killed in action on 25th October 1918 and is buried in Hamburg Cemetery.

 

 

 

 

 

Richard Suter, Justice of the Peace for Maidenhead, and His Second Wife Elizabeth Anne Suter.

 

 

 

Monument to Richard and Elizabeth Ann Suter, St James the Less Churchyard, Stubbings, Berkshire.

 

 

"Here rests in peace the body of Richard Suter of Castle Hill, Maidenhead born March 30th 1798.  Called away March 1st 1883.  

Also of Elizabeth Anne wife of the above who died December 10th 1886 aged 82 - Once more before we part.  We'll bless the saviour's name.  Record his mercies every heart.  Sing every tongue the same. -"

 

 

Richard Suter was born in Greenwich, Kent on 30th March 1798, to William Suter and his wife Sarah Knights.

 

On 7th January 1825 he married Anne Ruth Burn.  On the 1841 Census Richard, an architect and lawyer, can be found living in London with his wife Ann (listed as Ruth) and their two children Richard George and Andrew Burn.  Living with them is Edward D Suter.  1851 finds the family living in Tottenham Court in London, by this time Andrew had left the home, but I am unable to trace him on the 1851 Census. In 1860 Andrew marries Amelia Damaris Harrison.

 

Both Richard George and Andrew were to become ordained ministers, with Andrew later becoming a Bishop and emigrating to New Zealand.

 

Sadly in 1854 Anne Ruth was to pass away.

 

In 1861, widowed Richard, Justice of the Peace for Maidenhead, is living at Castle Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire.  In 1862 he married Elizabeth Anne Pocock.  In 1871 and 1881 Richard and Elizabeth are still living in Castle Hill.  Richard was to pass away on 1st March1883. On 10th March 1883 the Reading Mercury carried the following announcement:

"SUTER.—On the 1st March, 1883, at his residence, Castle Hill, Maidenhead, Richard Suter, Eq., in the 86th year of his age."

 

In 1884 there was an incident outside the house of the recently widowed Elizabeth Suter.  The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on 7th May 1884:

 

"A Runaway - At eleven o'clock on Monday morning a horse attached to a cart belonging to a Mr. G. Jackson, ran away from outside Mrs. Suter's house, Castle Hill, into which a lad had gone with some meat.  It made it's way at terrific speed by the Waterworks into St Luke's-road, and thence into Market-street.  here considerable excitement prevailed, and several attempts were made to stop the animal, but to no purpose.  It turned the corner into the High-street, and the cart came into collision with one of the large lamp-posts in front of the Town Hall.  The result was that the cart overturned against the pillar-box, and a little child two years of age, belonging to Nelson Franks, of Moffatt-street, was knocked down.  Dr Playne attended to the child, and it was found to have sustained no serious injuries.  The cart was much damaged, but the horse escaped uninjured."

 

On 10th December1886 Elizabeth passed away and joined her husband in the quiet little churchyard at St James the Less, Stubbings, Berkshire.

 

 

 

Second World War Commonwealth War Grave - Leading Aircraftsman Eric Stanley Holloway, Royal Air force, 42 Squadron - Killed in Automobile Accident

 

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them".

 

 

 

Eric Stanley Holloway was born in Maidenhead in 1920 to Roland Percy Holloway and his wife Violet Katherine Thrift.

Eric was involved in a motorcycle accident on 18th April 1937, where his friend was taken to hospital.  The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Wednesday 21st April 1937: 

"Castle Hill Accident- Charles Smith (19), of 31, Crossthwaite Way, Burnham, was taken to Maidenhead Hospital by borough ambulance as a result of an accident near Queen Anne's School, Castle Hill, on Sunday afternoon.  He was riding pillion on a motor-cycle driven by Eric Stanley Holloway (17), of 244 Bell-street, Maidenhead. When the latter braked, the machine skidded on the wet road, and Smith was thrown off. He sustained concussion, injuries to the left side of his face, abrasions to his hands, and his front teeth were knocked out. Holloway escaped injury.

 

In 1938 Eric enlisted with the Royal Air Force, 42 Squadron, and was training to become a pilot. 

 

On Saturday 19th July 1941, Eric and two friends were involved in a fatal automobile accident.  The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Wednesday 23rd July 1941:

"Terrible Road Tragedy.

Three Maidenhead Victims In Head-On Car Collision.

Four Killed and Five Injured.

Inquest Adjourned.

A terrible road accident in which for were killed and five injured occurred on Saturday last at 11.30 p.m. on the Twyford By-pass road on the section known as Floral Mile. It was dark and raining heavily at the time. As far as can be gathered a head-on crash occurred between a car travelling int he direction of Maidenhead and a lorry approaching from the opposite direction. A second car following is understood to have crashed into the first vehicle and as a result the following persons were either killed instantly or died within a short time of the accident.

Hilda Hooper, age 17, Edith Mabel Hooper, age 18, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hooper, of the Craufurd Arms, Gringer Hill, Maidenhead.

Eric Stanley Holloway, Leading Aircraftsman, age 20, whose parents live at 44, Bell Street, Maidenhead.

Terence Graham Evans, Second Lieutenant, age 27, of the Devonshire Regiment.

The five injured people were: Frank Streatfield Moore, Oakhanger Park, Shefford Woodlands; 2nd Lieut Stanley Sidney Phillips, of the Devonshire Regiment; Mrs. Joan Millicent Bradley, Brook Cottage, Donnington, near Newbury; Mrs. Constance Phillips, Brook Cottage, Donnington; Mrs. Margaret Jean Chadwick, Hedley, near Newbury.

The car in which to two unfortunate Maidenhead girls were riding was being driven by Holloway and it is understood that the party were returning from Reading where they had spent the evening. The other car was driven by Frank Streatfield Moore, Oakhanger Park, Shefford Woodlands. He and four of his passengers were injured and were taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital. A fifth passenger, Lieut. evean, was killed.

The Lorry, which was owned by the Thatcham Transport Services, was driven by Edward Wannell, Coldharbour-lane, Camberwell.

An inquest formally opened by Mr. R. S. Payne (coroner for the Reading Division of Berkshire) at Wokingham yesterday (Tuesday), when evidence of identification was given." 

~ ~ ~ 

"Ronald Percy Holloway, father of Leading Aircraftsman Holloway, 44, Bell-street, Maidenhead, said his son went out on Saturday afternoon, but did not say where he was going. He was on 14 days' leave. He was a leading aircraftsman in the R.A.F. and was shortly going to pass out as a pilot. He had frequently driven cars during the last three years, and was apprenticed to the motor trade before enlisting in 1939.

Dr. G. R. Macfarlane, resident surgeon at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, said Holloway died a few minutes after admission to the hospital. His abdomen must have been crushed, because the spleen and liver were ruptured. Both femurs and the pelvis were fractured. Death was due to a ruptured spleen."

The coroner adjourned the inquest until 6th August 1941, in the hopes the injured would be well enough by then to give evidence. On the 24th July 1941 Eric, Hilda, and Edith Mabel were buried at All Saint's Maidenhead Cemetery, All saint's Road, Maidenhead. On Wednesday 30th July the Maidenhead Advertiser reported: 

"Leading Aircraftsman E. S. Holloway

Leading Aircraftsman Eric Stanley Holloway's home was at 44 Bell-street, Maidenhead. He was a popular young man, and had many friends in the town. He enlisted in the R.A.F. in September 1938, and was preparing to take his examinations for the position of pilot. Before joining the Air Force he was employed at Stevenson's Garage, King-street. The officiating clergyman was Rev. R. B. Lunt (Vicar of St Mary's) The coffin was draped with the R.A.F. colours, and eight members of the unit to which the deceased was attached acted as bearers."

Such a tragic end to four young people's lives. 

 

 

Little Elsie Jane Nelly Mair-Rumley - Departed But Not Dead; Not Lost, But Gone Before

 

 

 

Monument to Elsie Jane Nelly Mair-Rumley, St James the Less Churchyard, Stubbings, Berkshire.

 

 

"In loving memory of dear Elsie second daughter of J. G. Mair-Rumley who fell asleep on Sept 5th 1888 aged 7 years - Departed but not dead; not lost, but gone before -"

 

 

Elsie Jane Nelly Mair-Rumley was born on 7th December 1880 in Chelsea London, to John George Valentine Mair-Rumley, a farmer, landowner, and civil engineer, and his wife Louisa Helena Pascoe.  Elsie was christened in the parish of St Luke's, Chelsea, London on 26th February 1881.

 

On the 1881 Census, Elsie can be found living with her parents and elder siblings George Pascoe, born in 1877. and Ida Florence, born in 1878 at 12 Carlyle Square, Chelsa, London.

 

Sadly, Elsie was to pass away on 5th September 1888 aged just 7 years.