Sketcher of Mesopotamian Antiquities - William and Eliza Boutcher

All Saint's Cemetery,
Maidenhead, Berkshire, UK.

"William Boutcher

Born at Broadclyst, Devon

Aug 29th 1828

Died at Elbury, Maidenhead, Dec 14th 1900

Also of

Eliza Boutcher

Dearly Beloved Wife of the Above

Died May 24th 1922 Aged 86 Years,"

William Boutcher was born on 29th August 1828 in the village of Broadcylst in Devon to parents William Boutcher and Jane Newton.

William can first be found on the 1851 Census as an Architect's Clerk living in Upper Sandgate Road, Folkestone, Kent.

In the 1850's William was employed by the British Museum as an artist on W K Loftus's archaeological excavations in the city of Niveah, Mesopotamia. The collection of William's drawings can be found here, British Museum Catalogue.

Sandgate Road, Folkestone, Kent.

Eliza Boutcher was born Eliza Milliship on 30th November 1835 in Marylebone, London to parents George William Milliship a builder, and Margaret Sweetman. 

Eliza first appears on the 1841 Census living at Portman Place, Marylebone, London, with her parents and siblings. Living with the family are Mary Ann Burton and Mary Ann Hitchins, both domestic Servants. By 1851 the family had moved to 13 Paddington Green, Paddington, London.

Eliza's father George Milliship passed away in the October of 1855.

~ ~ ~

On the 29th November 1860 at Saint Saviour Church, Warwick Avenue, Westminster, London, William Boutcher married Eliza Milliship.

Saint Saviour Church, Warwick Avenue,
Westminster, London.

In 1861 the now married William and Eliza Boutcher can be found living at 7 Kensington Park North Terrace, Kensington, London with their Domestic Servant, Matilda Rodgers. in 1862 William and Eliza welcome their first child, a son Alan George Boutcher, he was followed by his sister Edith Mary Boutcher in 1864. Liliam Mabel Boutcher arrived in 1865, followed by Harold William Boutcher in 1868, and Douglas Leolin Boutcher in 1870.

The 1871 Census finds the family along with Eliza's widowed mother Margaret Milliship, living at 125 Lancaster Road, Chelsea, London, along with their two servants Emma Bartlett and Ellen King.

William and Eliza were to have two more children, Ernest Noel Boutcher born in 1872, and Hilda Margaret Boutcher in 1874.

1881 and the family has moved to 128A Lancaster Road, Chelsea, London. Living with them are their servants, Hannah Peck a Cook, and Matilda White a Housemaid.

By the 1891 Census the family has moved to the village of Cores End, Wooburn, Buckinghamshire. The family are listed as 'living by own means', with the exception of Harold William Boutcher who is an Artist in Painting and Sculpture, and Ernest Noel Boutcher who is a Student in Chemical Laboratory. Living with the family are their two servants, Maria Clements, and Fanny Woodley.

On 14th December 1900 William Boutcher was to pass away at suddenly at his home, Elbury, Ray Park Avenue, Maidenhead, Berkshire.  The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Wednesday 19th December 1900 as follows:

"Death of Mr William Boutcher

We regret to record the death of an esteemed townsman, Mr. William Boutcher, of "Elbury," Ray Park-avenue, who passed away somewhat unexpectantly at about noon on Friday last. Some three or four years ago Mr. Boutcher had a stroke of paralysis, but up to within a day of his death he was able to get about fairly well, and was frequently to be seen in the town and at Marlow at cricket, football, and tennis matches, in which he took considerable interest. On the day before his death he was about the house as usual, but on the following morning he developed alarming symptoms and his medica adviser deemed it necessary to suggest the summoning of members of the family, and this was done. Mr. Boutcher passed away, however at noon. The deceased gentleman had resided in Maidenhead for some years, and he had a great deal to do with the development of the Ray Lodge estate, now one of the most picturesque residential parts of the town.

Before coming to Maidenhead, Mr. Boutcher resided for ten years at Bourne End, prior to which he lived in London, where he took great interest in parochial and more public affairs. He was for some time Chairman of the Works Committee of the Kensington Vestry and was a member of the Metropolitain Board of Works. The British Museum contains testimony of Mr. Boutcher's research in respect of antiquities on Nivevah, as he went out with an expedition which brought back stones and other things relating to the buried city of considerable antiquarian interest, plans and sketches of which Mr. Boutcher made before the stones were separated for dispatch to England, in order that they might be re-erected here as originally discovered. Mr Boutcher subscribed liberally to local institutions, and took a keen interest in the affairs of the town. His death will be heard with great regret. The funeral took place on Monday at the Cemetery." - Maidenhead Advertiser, Wednesday 19th December 1900.

1901 finds the recently widowed Eliza and her daughter Hilda Margaret Boutcher still living at Elbury, Ray Park Avenue with their servant Rose Merlands.

By 1911 the now elderly Eliza has moved in with her artist son Harold William Boutcher and his wife Nellie Constance "Daisy" Boutcher, at The Vine, West Byfleet, Surrey

West Byfleet, Surrey c1914

Eliza was to pass away on 24th May 1922, aged 86 in Surrey, England.

To Memory Ever Dear, Friend of the Sick and Suffering - Jennie (Keziah) Wilton the Fishmonger's Wife

All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead,
Berkshire, UK.

All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, UK.

 

"In Memoriam

Jennie

The Beloved Wife of David Wilton

Who Died December 1st 1899

Aged 50 Years

To Memory Ever Dear."

Jennie was born Keziah Ann Brown in 1847 in Worplesdon, Surrey to Frederick Brown, a Labourer, and Mary Calligan.

Jennie first appears on the 1851 Census as Keziah living with her parents, elder sister Mary, and two younger brothers, Frederick and James in Worplesdon, Surrey. Sadly, Jennie's father Frederick was to pass away in 1858.

1861 finds Jennie listed as Ann Brown living in Wood Street, Worplesdon, Surrey with her mother Mary and stepfather James Lemon, however I have been unable to locate a marriage record.

Worplesdon, Surrey, UK.

In 1871 Jennie has moved to Maidenhead where she is living and working as a Cook at Vicarage House, Boyn Hill for the Vicar of Boyn Hill Chruch, William Gresley. Jennie married David Wilton, a Fishmonger and Poulterer in 1873 in St Saviour, Southwark, London.

Boyn Hill Vicarage House and Alms Houses,
Boyn Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire, UK.

By 1881 Jennie and David have moved to 99 High Street Maidenhead, where they live with their young daughter Lizzie, and their Domestic Servant, Susan Hunt.

1891, Jennie and David have moved to 93 High Street, Maidenhead, Lizzie does not appear to be living with her parents and I am unable to find any record of her on the 1891 Census. Living with the family however is David's cousin Edward Randell, a Fishmongers Assistant, Fanny Maher a Bookkeeper, and Sarah Keely a Domestic Servant.  Visiting on the night of the Census are Kate Marshall, and her daughter Katie Marshall.

Jennie was to pass away on 1st December 1899 aged 52 not 50 as her gravestone states, if her Baptism record of 1847 is correct.

The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Jennie's death as follows:

"Death of Mrs Wilton. The Sick and Suffering Poor Lose Another Friend.

It is with feelings of profound regret that we record the death of Mrs. Wilton, the wife of our esteemed townsman, Mr. d. Wilton (Deputy-Mayor), which occurred suddenly Friday afternoon at her residence, High-street. For some considerable time past Mrs. Wilton had suffered from occasional attacks of asthma and congestion of the lungs, and was subsequently much confined to her house. She was in a very fair state of health on Tuesday and spent a little time out of doors. Not feeling so well on Wednesday, she remained in-doors and went to bed early in the evening. On Thursday she seemed much worse, and in the afternoon her condition was such as to give rise to feelings of alarm, and Dr. Moore regarded the case as one of very serious character. 

The deceased breathed her last in the presence of her sorrowing husband and daughter. The primary cause of death was failure of the heart's action, contributed to by asthma and congestion of the lungs. By the death of Mrs. Wilton the sick poor have lost a practical friend, and she will be greatly missed by very many.

The funeral of the late Mrs. Wilton took place yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon, and was one of the largest private funerals every known int he town and neighbourhood, and the enormous collection of wreaths, no less than the numerous attendance of people of all classes, testified of the love and respect for the deceased lady, the great regret at her death, and the heart-felt sympathy for Mr. Wilton and his daughter (Mrs Markham) in the bereavement they have sustained." - Maidenhead Advertiser, Wednesday 6th December 1899.

On the 1901 Census, the widowed David can be found still living at 93 High Street, Maidenhead, along with Annie Hester a Bookkeeper, Annie Mines, a Domestic Servant, and Ellen Butler, a Cook.  David got remarried in Wandsworth in 1910 to Freda De La Mare. By the 1911 Census they had moved to 8 Comyn Road, Clapham Junction, London.

Clapham Junction, London, UK.

In the October of 1911 David and Freda welcomed their only child, David. in 1939 the family had moved to 38 Richmond Street in Bournemouth, where David Senior is listed as being a Retired Steward of Club, Fredia listed as Winifred is a Stewardess, and David Jr is a Architect and Civil Air Guard.

David Snr was to pass away in 1940 aged 89 years old.

Tombstone Tuesday - Julia Anne Hornblower Cock MD

Monument to Julia Anne Hornblower Cock MD, Longden Cemetery, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England.

"In Beloved Memory Of

Julia Anne Hornblower Cock MD

Born 22 Feb 1860

The Lord Giveth And The Lord Hath Taken Away

Died 7th Feb 1914

And was interred at Rookwood

Are They Glad Because They are At Rest."

 

 

A friend of mind photographed the above monument whilst visiting a local cemetery and asked whether I would be interested in researching the life of Julia Anne Hornblower Cock.

 

Julia Anne Hornblower Cock was born on 22nd February 1860 to James Cock, a tanner, and his wife Ellen Lloyd.  Julia was christened on 19th March 1860 at St Mary's Church, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

 

Copyright David Dixon.

 

Julia first appears on the 1861 Census, aged one year and living with her parents and elder siblings at The Baths in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

 

By 1871 the family had moved to Beauchamp House on The Mount in Shrewsbury.

 

In 1877 Julia decided to embark on her career in the medical profession which at the time was a male dominated profession.  Julia was one of a few pioneering women who were determined to open up the profession to women.

 

The 1881 Census finds the twenty one year old Julia a medical student at Bedford college for girls in London.  At the time Julia is boarding at the home of Eliza A Townsend, head of the college, at 79 Gower Street, Finsbury, London. 

 

The 1891 Census finds the now qualified surgical physician Julia living at 15 Manchester Square in Marylebone, London along with her general servant Mary Jones.  Another lady physician, Jessie Crossfield is living a few houses away at 23 Manchester Square.  It is possible the Julia and Jessie attended the same college.

 

 

 

Between 1887 and 1892 Julia worked as a member of the in-patient and out-patient staff at a hospital for women.  In 1896 Julia took up the position of joint lecturer at the London (Royal Free Hospital) School of Medicine for Women.

 

By 1901 Julia had moved to 15 Nottingham Place, Marylebone, London  where she lived along with her two servants Mary Walton and Clara Barnard.  In 1903 Julia became the Dean of the London (Royal Free Hospital) School of Medicine for Women.

 

By 1911 Julia had moved to Sussex where she is listed as joint head of the household with another lady doctor, Louisa Woodcock at Colesbrook, Watersfield, Pulborough, Sussex.

 

Julia never married and passed away after suffering from a long illness three years later in 1914 six months before England declared war with Germany.

 

 

 

 

Linked with:

 

Tombstone Tuesday

 

 

Sources:

 

Ancestry

Family Search

Geograph UK

Europe PubMed Central

 



Cemetery Sunday - Mr. James May of Bath

 

"In Affectionate Memory Of

Mr. James May

of Bath

Who departed this life

February 7th 1870 Aged 26 years

 

I am the resurrection and the life

whosoever believeth in me shall not

perish but have everlasting life"

 



First World War Private Monument - First Casualty Buried in Maidenhead - Private Frederick James Stevens - Died of Wounds, and his brother Acting Lance Sergeant Charles Stevens - Shot by a Sniper - Both Royal Berkshire Regiment

"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".

 

 

Frederick James, and Charles Stevens were born in Maidenhead, Berkshire on 29th September 1895 and 13th October 1892, to Charles W Stevens, a labourer in a sewage works and later Cooper's Brick Kilns, Pinkney's Green, and his wife Elizabeth Susan Cole.

 

In 1901 Frederick aged 5 and Charles aged 7 are living with their parents and sister Lily at No 5 Dolman's Buildings, King Street in Maidenhead Berkshire.

 

1911 and Frederick, now 15 and a caddy at a local golf course, is still living with his parents at No 5 Dolman's Buildings.  Charles, now a private in The Royal Berkshire Regiment can be found at Fort Burgoyne, The Red Huts, Military Quarters at Castle Hill in Dover.

 

Sometime afterwards Frederick joined his brother in 1st Battalion of The Royal Berkshire Regiment.

It seems that their father didn't take to their joining the war effort too well.  On 3rd October 1914, The Slough, Eton and Windsor Observer reported -

"Maidenhead.  Attempted Suicide

Worried about His Son At The Front.

Lying face downwards with a razor in his right hand and three gashes in his neck, a man named Charles Stevens was discovered in a semi-conscious condition on the common at Pinkney's Green.  For reasons which at present are unknown he had attempt to take his life, but the wounds were not sufficiently severe to serve his purpose, and he is now at the Maidenhead Cottage Hospital making rapid progress towards recovery.  When he is in a fit condition he will be brought before the magistrates to answer for his foolish action.   The man is 44 years of age and is in lodgings at Pinkney's Green.  He is employed at Cooper's Brick Kiln.  It is thought that among other things he has been worrying about his son at the front."

 

Unfortunately I have been unable to locate any military records for either Frederick or Charles.

Frederick was wounded in battle and sent to The General Hospital in Nottingham.  From his hospital ward Frederick penned a letter home.  The Reading Mercury reported on 9th January 1915 -

"Maidenhead Man Wounded - The following is an extract from a letter sent by Private F. Stevens of the 1st Battalion Royal Berkshire Regiment (son of Mr. C. Stevens, 5, Dolman's-buildings, Maidenhead) who was badly wounded at the front,  and is now in the General Hospital at Nottingham: 'My upper jaw has been broken and my left eye is useless.  I have been in this hospital since November 22, and I am progressing as well as can be expected.  The hospital authorities cared for us very well this Christmas and I enjoyed myself very well under the circumstances.  The people of Nottingham are very good indeed to all the wounded here.'

 

Sadly, Private Frederick was to die as a result of his wounds on January 12th 1915, aged just 21 years.

The Nottingham Journal later reported on Friday 15th January 1915:

"The relatives of Private Frederick James Stevens, of the Royal Berkshire Regiment, who died in Nottingham General Hospital on Tuesday from wounds received at the front have arranged for his body to be conveyed to Maidenhead for burial. This will be done to-day. Stevens was only 21 years of age, his home being Dalman's Buildings, King-street, Maidenhead. He was shot through the right [sic] eye, and had been in Nottingham since November 22nd."

On 20th January 1915 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported on Frederick's funeral at All Saints' Church, Boyn Hill, Maidenhead:

"Mortally Wounded.

Military Funeral For Brave Berkshire Lad.

First War Victim Brought to Maidenhead for Burial

With their rifles pointed towards the setting sun, which transformed the western sky into a blaze of light, fourteen Royal Berkshires fired three volleys over the grave of a comrade laid to rest in All saints' churchyard on Monday afternoon last, thereby according him the last honours associated with a military funeral.

The brave young fellow, who was mortally wounded when fighting for King and Country in the great war, was Private Fred Stevens, of 1st Batt. Royal Berks. Regt., now fighting in the trenches. He was badly wounded a short time ago and was brought to England and taken to the General Hospital at Nottingham. Writing from this institution to his parents, who reside at 5, Dolman's buildings, High Town-road, Maidenhead, the soldier said:- 'My upper jaw has been broken and my left eye is useless.  I have been in this hospital since November 22, and I am progressing as well as can be expected.  The hospital authorities cared for us very well this Christmas and I enjoyed myself very well under the circumstances.  The people of Nottingham are very good indeed to all the wounded here, and I am well-cared for by the hospital staff.'  The latter statement is true, as the hospital staff did all they possibly could for the lad and his recovery seemed but a question of time, though permanent disablement seemed probable. Fortunately, however, Private Stevens passed away suddenly, a telegraph to this effect being received from the Sister at the General Hospital at Nottingham on Tuesday last. Needless to add, the sad news caused his parents much grief. We may here state that the deceased's brother is still at the Front with the 2nd Royal Berks and has also been in the thick of the fighting.

The body was brought to Maidenhead for burial and the funeral took place on Monday afternoon, with military honours. The funeral procession was formed in  High Town-road, and its departure for Boyne Hill was witnessed by many hundreds of persons, this being the first funeral in Maidenhead of a victim of the present war. A bearer party was supplied by the 4th (Reserve( Batt. Royal Berks Regiment, stationed at Maidenhead, who also supplied the firing party, while about eighty of the rank and file attended to pay a last mark of respect for the deceased soldier.

The military party was under the command of Second-Lieut. R. C. V. Freeth, and Sergt.-Major Butler was also in attendance. The coffin was covered in the Union Jack, on which rested the deceased's cap and side-arms. There were many wreaths, including a handsome one in a large glass case sent from sympathising friends at Nottingham. As the body was brought from the house the firing party presented arms, and they made their way to the head of the procession. the main body of the Berkshires falling in behind the carriages after the latter and the funeral car had passed between the military lines. A great crowd accompanied the procession along King-street, up Castle-hill and along All Saints'-avenue to the church. Here there were assembled some hundreds of persons, a large number of whom entered the church. The coffin was removed from the car to the hand-bier and was met at the entrance of the church by the Rev. D. S. Chapman and Rev. E. Y. Dawson (curates), who officiated at the church and at the graveside. The service was very impressive. 

At the close of the service at the graveside, the firing party fired three volleys, and then the bugler sounded the "Last Post." After the mourners had taken a last look at the coffin, the soldiers passed round the grave, saluted their deceased comrade and then marched back to their headquarters."

 

Charles rose to the rank of Acting Lance Sergeant before he was killed at the battle of Bourlon Wood as a result of enemy action on 29th November 1917, aged just 25 years.  Charles is buried in the Moeuvers Communal Cemetery in France.  On 19th December 1917 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Acting Lance-Sergt. Charles Stevens, of the Royal Berks Regiment, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stevens, of 5, Dolman's Buildings, King-street [sic], Maidenhead, was killed in action on November 29th. He had distinguish himself for bravery in the field in the earlier part of the war and was the possessor both of the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Military Medal. Lieut. E. C. de Vitre, writing to Mrs. Stevens says: By now you have doubtless heard the sad news of the death, in action, of your son, and I thought that you might care to hear from one who was with him when he was killed. Writing as his Platoon Officer, I can say without hesitation that he was by far the best N.C.O. in the platoon, and, more than that, I and all the men liked and trusted him completely. It will be quite impossible to ever find another as he was. The men would follow anywhere, and his coolness and bravery under fire were exceptional. He was killed by a sniper as he led his men to his objective and had begun to dig in. His death was instantaneous and entirely without pain, and the bullet went through his brain, it is impossible that he could have felt anything. We brought his body in that night and buried him beside two other men of his section who met their end at almost the same time as he did. He was buried by our Regimental parson and a wooden cross makes his grave. I hope I have not caused you any pain by what I have written, but I should like you to know how I and all the men miss him and sympathise with you in your great loss." 

Charles Stevens War Grave
Moeuvres Communal Cemetery

Charles Stevens Sr passed away on 15th November 1924 after collapsing in Maidenhead High Street.  On 19th November 1924 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Death In The Street.

On Saturday evening an elderly man named Charles Stevens, of Dolman's Buildings, King-street, was taken ill in the High-street, and before medical aid could arrive death had taken place, and the body was removed on the borough ambulance. The man's doctor was able to give a certificate, having attended Stevens for heart-disease, so that no inquest was necessary. Stevens had been for many years a Corporation employee." 

How heartbreaking for Elizabeth to lose two sons to war and then her husband not long afterwards. The widowed Elizabeth can be found on the 1939 Register living at 3 Hope Cottages, King Street, Maidenhead. Elizabeth finally joined her husband and sons in 1949 when she passed away aged 82.

 

 



Second World War Private Monument - Pilot Officer Gerard Hamilton Maffett, Royal Air Force

 

"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".

 

Gerard Hamilton Maffett was born 11th June 1916 in Murree, India to Lieutenant-Colonel Reginald Ernest Maffett and his wife Gwendoline Mary de Rutzen.

Gerard first appears on the 1921 Census, aged 5, living with his father and siblings at York Road, Bognor Suessex. His mother Gwendoline was away from the home at the time of the Census.

Gerard was educated at Imperial Service College in Windsor, Berkshire.  In 1934 he finished his education and took a job with the Daily Mail in London.  Four years later Gerard enlisted with the Royal air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR) as a U/T Pilot.  He started out flying Tiger Moths from White Waltham airfield near Maidenhead, Berkshire.  

On the 1939 Register Gerard can be found living with his parents at Wellington Lodge, Ray Park Road, Maidenhead Berkshire

On 22nd June 1940 Gerard converted from Tiger Moths to Hurricane aircraft and joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on 7th July 1940.

Gerard Hamilton Maffett

Gerard flew on his first operation on 18th August 1940 where he is credited for destroying a Dornier Do17 aircraft and damaging a Heinkel He111.

On 31st August 1940, nine Hurricanes took off from Martlesham Heath at 8:25am ordered to patrol Debden at 15,000 feet.  The Squadron climbed towards Debden, but encountered two large formations of Junkers Ju88 aircraft at 14,000 feet with several formations of Messerschmitt Bf110s at 16,000 feet.  Unable to catch up with the Junkers Ju88s the squadron pursued the Messerschmitt formations.  At least six Messerschmitt Bf110s were destroyed, however the squadron suffered the loss of two Hurricanes.  One of those was Gerard's P3175, which crashed into the foreshore at Stone Point, Walton-on-the-Naxe, Essex at around 8:50am.  Gerard was able to bail out of his stricken aircraft but his parachute failed to open due to the low altitude.  Gerard was killed on impact.

Gerard's elder brother John Francis Maffett, Wing commander with the R.A.F was also killed in action on 12th February 1942.  He is commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial, Egham, Surrey.

Reginald Ernest Maffett passed away on 12th August 1950 and Gwendoline Mary on 2nd October 1975 aged 100 years.

Between 1972 and 1973 the remains of Gerard's crashed Hurricane, including the instrument panel and windscreen, together with an almost complete engine and the remains of the three wooden propeller blades were recovered.  *They're now displayed in The Battle of Britain Museum in Hendon, London.

*No longer on display.

Cemetery Sunday - St Peter's Church, Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Spooky Carved Stone Face, St Peter's Church, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England.

 

 

 

Linking up with...



 

 

 



get the InLinkz code

Henry Hunter of The Reform Inn , Bridge Street, Maidenhead, and his wife Elizabeth Hunter

 

 

Monument to Henry and Elizabeth Hunter, St Luke's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

 

"In Loving Memory Of 

Henry Hunter 

Who Died October 11th 1883 

Aged 57 years 

- Asleep in Jesus - 

Also 

Elizabeth Hunter 

Wife Of The Above 

Who Died June 26th 1903 

Aged 75 years."

 

 

Henry Hunter was born in 1827 in North Pickerham, Norfolk to John Hunter, an agricultural labourer, and his wife Elizabeth Simmons.

 

Henry first appears on the 1841 Census aged fifteen living with his parents and siblings, William, Harriet, Charles and Edward, in North Pickerham, Norfolk.

 

In 1851 Henry has left the family home to work for the Reverend Henry Say, the Rector of North Pickerham, as a groom.  Working in the same household as a cook was Elizabeth Mason, Henry's future wife.

 

Elizabeth Mason was born in 1828 in Wiggenhall, St Germans, Norfolk to John Mason, an agricultural labourer, and his wife Mary Ann Smith.

 

Elizabeth first appears on the 1841 Census aged thirteen years living with her parents and siblings, Mary, Sarah, Martha and George, in Wiggenhall, St Germans, Norfolk.

 

In the October of 1857, Elizabeth and Henry married.  Their first child, a son John Henry arrived soon after in 1858, followed closely be another son, George in 1860.  A daughter, Susan followed in 1862 and in 1863 a second daughter, Sarah arrived.

 

In 1861 Henry and his family have moved to Water Oakley Lodge in Bray, Berkshire, where Henry is working as a coachman for Sir Richard Hall-Say, the nephew of the Reverend Henry Say and the builder of Water Oakley Mansion (now called Oakley Court Hotel).  Living with the family at the time is Elizabeth's sister Frances.

 

1871 and the family is still living at Water Oakley Lodge where Henry is continuing his employment as a coachman for Sir Hall-Say.  Visiting the family at the time was Elizabeth's aunt, Susan Smith.

 

However in 1879 Henry had decided on a change of career and had become the Inn Keeper at The Reform, 44 Bridge Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire. John Henry had left the family home to work as a 2nd Coachman in London.  George is working as a barman at The Vine Hotel in Reading, Berkshire. I am unable to locate Susan on the 1881 Census. 

 

Sadly, just two years later, Henry was to pass away on 11th October 1883.

 

In 1888 Susan Hunter married Thomas Wright, a carpenter and joiner, in Maidenhead, Berkshire. Also in 1881 there was some monkey business afoot as a circus monkey escaped and climbed onto the roof of the Reform Inn. On 19th September 1888 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Monkey Hunt-

On Saturday morning last one the large monkeys in Lord George Sangers' Circus," which had been taken from its cage for exercise succeeded in escaping. After indulging in a few frolics on the Moor, it made for the Green Dragon opposite, and was soon on the Berken's home, after which it got on to the roof of the Reform Inn. The runaway was eventually captured and taken back to its cage."

 

1891 and the widowed Elizabeth has taken over the running of The Reform public house, along with her son George.

 

Elizabeth and George are still running The Reform together in 1901, this time employing a live in bar keeper, Ernest Wheeler.  Just two years later in 1903, Elizabeth followed her husband to the grave.

 

The Slough, Eton and Windsor Observer reported on 4th July 1903 -

 

"Death Of An Old Resident - We regret to have to record the death of another old Maidenhead resident, Mrs. Elizabeth Hunter, that occurred at her residence, The Reform, Bridge Road on Friday Last.  Mrs. Hunter, who was 75 years of age, had resided at The Reform for over 20 years.  The house was kept by her late husband, Mr. Henry Hunter, from 1879 until his death in October 1883.  since the latter date, Mrs. Hunter has carried on the business with the help of her son, Mr. George Hunter.  The funeral took place on Tuesday at St. Luke's church.  The body was interred in the grave where lie the remains of the deceased's husband.  The mourners included Mr. George Hunter (son), Mrs. Wright (daughter)and Mr. Grinstead; and the following members of the Maidenhead Licensed Victuallers Society were also present:  Mr. J. Meeks (Chairman),  Mr. J. Maio, Mr. J. T. Cotton, Mr. Smith (Green Dragon), and Mr. W. A. Thompson (Secretary).  There were a large number of very handsome wreaths, including one from the Maidenhead Licensed Victuallers." 

 

George Hunter continued the run The Reform until 1907. During the 1900 floods which saw considerable amounts of water in Bridge Street, George is quoted in the Maidenhead Advertiser:

"The Reform inn contains a considerable depth of water, and Host Hunter is not to be envied. 'By hook or by crook, however, he seeks to quench the thirst of any who may punt up to his bar.'"  

In 1904 the floods came again, this time worse. The Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"The Reform Inn, kept by Mr. Geo. Hunter, could only be approached by punt, and the water inside was so deep that it was almost impossible to serve customers, and he closed the house early in the evening."

The Reform Inn during the 1947 floods

 

  

Alfred Playne, Surgeon and Barrister of Maidenhead, and his first wife Frances Maria Playne

Monument to Alfred and Frances Maria Playne, St Luke's Churchyard, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

"In loving memory 

of 

Alfred Playne 

Died Sept. 9th 1908. 

Aged 79 years.  

Also 

Frances Maria 

His Beloved Wife 

Died Sept. 21st 1871.  

Aged 42 years. 

- The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God."

Frances Maria Playne was born Frances Maria Clifford in 1829 in Camberwell, Surrey to William Clifford, a newspaper agent and his wife Mary Maria Newcomb.

Frances Maria first appears on the 1841 Census, aged 11, living at her uncle Joseph Newcomb's home Morton Cottage, Upton-Cum-Chalvey, along with her eldest sisters Ellen, and Emma.  

The 1851 Census finds Frances aged 22 is living with her parents and her siblings, Joseph, Ellen ,and Emma, at 3 Bedford Terrace in Lambeth, Surrey.

Alfred Playne was born in Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire in 1829 to Peter Playne, a woollen cloth manufacturer, and his wife Ann Dancey.

I have been unable to locate Dr Alfred on the 1841 Census.  Alfred appears on the 1851 Census as a medical student lodging in the home of Charles Gauneisen in Westminster, London.

In 1860 in Windsor, Berkshire, Frances married Alfred Playne, now a general practitioner doctor.  1861 finds the newly married couple living at 1 Northwick Terrace in Market Street, Maidenhead Berkshire.  Together, Dr Alfred and Frances had six daughters, Mary born in 1861, Fanny Clifford born in 1863, Ellen Armitage born in 1865, Emma Clifford in 1867, Margaret Newcombe in 1868 and Lucette Golden in 1869. 

During the Census of 1871 Frances is visiting Miss Isabella Fleming and her family at The Grove in Cookham, next to The Ferry Inn. Sadly the original building burnt to the ground during the Cookham floods in 1919.

Dr Alfred is at home with his daughters during the 1871 Census at their property in the High Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire.

Sadly, two years after the birth of her youngest daughter Lucette, and a few months after the 1871 Census, Frances passed away aged just 42.  The Berkshire Chronicle carried the following announcement:

"Deaths-

Sept. 21, at Maidenhead, Frances Maria, the beloved wife of Alfred Playne, Esq., M. B., of Maidenhead, and Box House, Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire. "

In 1874 Dr Alfred Playne remarried to Sarah Seamark Suter from Kent.

In 1881 Dr Alfred and his second wife are living at his High Street property in Maidenhead, along with five of his daughters from his first marriage.  Working as a domestic servant for the family is Sarah Hammerton.  Mary Playne is living with her maternal aunt Ellen Clifford at 4 Clarence Crescent in Windsor, Berkshire.  Mary remained unmarried until her death in 1958.

In 1886 Dr Alfred and several other doctors from Maidenhead put forward a proposal for a Medical Association to help the poor of Maidenhead with the cost of healthcare.  Unfortunately the proposal was turned down as unsatisfactory.

In 1887 Ellen left the family home and married Walter Stanley Armitage, a surgeon, thus becoming Ellen Armitage Armitage. 

By 1891 Dr Alfred had become a magistrate as well as moving to Lynhames, Castle Hill, Boyne Hill, Maidenhead. Two years later Fanny leaves the family home to marry Frederick Beames

Sadly Dr Alfred's second wife was to pass away on 20th May 1897. On 26th May 1897 the Maidenhead Advertiser reported:

"Death of Mrs Playne- We much regret to have this week to record the death of Mrs. Sarah S. Playne, wife of Dr. A. Playne, J. P., who passed away on Thursday last at her residence, "Lynhames," Castle-hill, after an illness of some months. The deceased lady was very highly esteemed , and her death was heard of throughout the town with much sorrow. 

The funeral took place on Monday, at 1.30, at All saints' Boyn Hill, the service being very impressively rendered by the Vicar, Rev. A. H. Drummond

The outer coffin was of English oak with brass mountings, and bore the following inscription: 

"Sarah Seamark Playne 

Died 20th May 1897

Aged 64 Years" 

The grave had been effectively adorned with moss, evergreens, and  narcissi bu Messrs. Owen of Castle-hill Nurseries. The funeral arrangements were well carried out by Mr. Theo. Hewitt, High-street."

Four years after the death of his second wife Dr Alfred has moved to 3 Boyn Hill Avenue where he is now listed as a retired surgeon. On 9th September 1908 Dr Alfred passed away.

On Saturday 21st November 1908 the Cheltenham Chronicle reported -

"Mr. Alfred Playne, M.B., J.P., youngest son of the late Mr. Peter Playne, of Box House, Minchinhampton, who died on Sept 9th last aged 78 years, appointed his daughter Miss. Mary Playne, of The Wilderness, Maidenhead, and his nephew, Mr. Frances George Playne, of The Grange, Minchinhampton, solicitors, executors, by whom the estate is sworn at £16,223, 2s, 11d. gross, of which £14,149, 12s, 11d, is net personalty."

Cemetery Sunday - Air Transport Auxiliary Graves

 

ATA - Air Transport Auxiliary Graves, All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

 

Throughout World War Two many personnel lost their lives whilst transporting planes, some of them damaged in battle, to various locations around Britain and France.

 

 

 

get the InLinkz code

Cemetery Sunday - The Fallen

 

Commonwealth War Grave of Lance Corporal A. M. Garrett- Cox Intelligence Corps.  4th August 1941 aged 26.

 

Son of R, Garrett-Cox and Gladys Irene Garrett-Cox of Maidenhead.

 

 

 

get the InLinkz code

Little Keith Slater Allen

Memorial to Keith Slater Allen, All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.


"In Sweet Memory of Keith Slater Allen Died Dec 29th 1930 Aged I Month."


Keith Slater Allen was born in the November of 1930 in Maidenhead,Berkshire to William Slater Allen, a carpenter and joiner, and his wife and Rose S Allum.

Sadly little Keith was to pass away on 29th December 1930 aged just one month old.

Arthur Kenneth Bromley taken by Diphtheria aged Two Years

Monument to Arthur Kenneth Bromley, All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

"To the Memory of Arthur Kenneth dearly loved third son of Arthur A & Kate L Bromley."



Arthur Kenneth Bromley was born in Maidenhead Berkshire in August 1902 to Arthur Ashby Bromley, a baker and confectioner, and his wife Kate Louise Mills.  Sadly, Arthur Kenneth was to pass away in 1904.

At the time of Arthur Kenneth's death most of Berkshire was in the grip of a measles epidemic.  Many young children lost their lives.  However young Arthur was to die from Diphtheria.

Arthur Ashby and his family lived at 33-37 Bridge Street in Maidenhead, Berkshire where they ran a bakery, confectionary shop, corn dealership and a post office.  Sadly, the building no longer exists.



A.A. Bromley and Staff c1905

Arthur and Kate had five children together, four who survived into adulthood, Ashby Donald, Collis Norman, Olive Kathleen, and Edith Joyce.



A.A. Bromley 33-37 Bridge Street, Maidenhead c1930
At this time run by Ashby Donald and Collis Norman Bromley

On Wednesday 7th December 1904, the Maidenhead Advertiser printed the following announcement:

"Deaths

Bromley - On 2nd December, Arthur Kenneth Bromley, the much-loved youngest child of Arthur A. and Kate L. Bromley."

Little Christina Lesley Cornish of Clare Road, Maidenhead

Angel monument to Christina Lesley Cornish, All Saints Maidenhead Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England.

"In Treasured Memory Of Our Little Girl Christina Lesley Cornish.  Fell Asleep Suddenly May 14th 1955 Aged 20 Months."

Christina Lesley Cornish was born in Eton, Windsor in 1953 to Clifford Gilbert Cornish, and his wife Sylvia Ann Frewing. Christina was to pass away on 14th May 1955, aged just 20 months old, in Windsor Berkshire.  On 20th May 1955 the Maidenhead Advertiser carried the following announcement:

"Deaths

Cornish- Christina Lesley, darling daughter of Ann and Cliff, of 6 Clare Rd., fell asleep suddenly May 14. Aged 20 months."

John and Harriet Nott of Cookham, Berkshire.

Monument to John and Harriet Nott, Holy Trinity Churchyard, Cookham, Berkshire, England.


"Sacred to the memory of John Nott, - late Lieutt in the 63rd Regiment of The Foot - Who died May. 30, 1839 aged 68 years.  Also Harriet Nott who died Octr. 17, 1863 aged 71 years.

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh."


I have been unable to find very much on John Nott other than he was born around 1771.  On 8th October 1812 in Bedminster, Somerset, John married Harriet Thomas.  Together they had seven children that I have been able to trace between 1818 and 1830, William Thomas, Elathea, George, Henry Thomas, Albert, Julia and Jane.

 John Nott was to pass away on 30th May 1839.

I can find no further record of the Nott family until the 1861 Census when Harriet can be found living in Cookham, Berkshire with her son Albert Nott, his wife Ann and their six year old daughter, Grace Lousia.

Harriet then passes away 7 years later on 17th October 1868.

The Life and Death of Sir Stanley Spencer, Artist of Cookham

Gravestone of Sir Stanley Spencer CBE RA, Holy Trinity Churchyard, Cookham Berkshire.

"To The Memory Of

Stanley Spencer

Kt CBE RA

1891 - 1959

And his wife

Hilda

Buried in Cookham Cemetery 1950

Everyone that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.  He that loveth not knoweth not God for God is love - 1 John 4:7"

Sir Stanley Spencer was born at Fernlea, High Street, Cookham on 30th June 1891 to William, a music teacher and Anne Caroline Spencer nee Slack.  On the that day a crow fell down the chimney and flapped about the living room until released. The family thought it a good omen and named Stanley after Stanley Spencer, a prominent balloonist of the era.

Fernlea

Much of Stanley's early education was at the village school run by his sisters, he eventually attended Maidenhead Technical School where his artistic training began, before enrolling at Slade School of Fine Art at University College, London.  Here he won the Composition Prize for ‘The Nativity’, and oil on canvas painted in 1912

The Nativity - 1912

In 1915 Stanley volunteered to serve with the Royal Army Medical Corps where he served as a orderly at The Beaufort War Hospital.  In 1916 he volunteered to serve with the Royal Army Medical Corps in Macedonia where he served with the 68th Field Ambulance Unit.  He later requested to be transferred to the Berkshire Regiment.  Stanley's experience of the horrors of war were to forever mark his attitude towards live and death, an influence that can be seen in many of his religious paintings.

Towards the end of the Great War Stanley was commissioned by the the War Artists Advisory Committee to paint visions of war from Macedonia.  Stanley painted what is now referred to as 'Travoys Arriving with Wounded at a Dressing Station at Smol.'  The painting is kept at the Imperial War Museum.

Travoys Arriving with Wounded at a Dressing Station at Smol

In 1925 Stanley married Hilda Carline, who at that time was a student of Slade School of Fine Art.  They had two daughters together, Shirin and Unity. 

Hilda, Unity and Dolls - 1937

However Hilda and Stanley were to divorce in 1837 when the girls were 7 and 11 due to Stanley's obsession with another woman, Patricia Preece.  A week after his divorce Stanley had married Patricia, but it was not to be a happy marriage.  Patricia was a con artist and a lesbian, whose interest in Stanley only extended as far as his money.  She somehow managed to persuade Stanley to sign over his house to her.  Patricia continued to live with her lover Dorothy Hepworth and the marriage was never consummated, yet when her 'relationship' with Stanley fell apart she refused to grant him a divorce. 

Hepworth, Preece, Spencer and guest
at Stanley's wedding to Patricia Preece in 1937

Stanley was to forever regret his decision to leave Hilda and his daughters for Patricia.  When Hilda's mental health began to fail, Stanley would visit her, but the damage to their relationship was already done.  In 1950 Hilda died of cancer.  Stanley continued to write love letters to Hilda long after her death.  In 1945 Stanley had moved to Cliveden View House in Cookham Rise, a house built by his builder grandfather Julius Spencer and previously lived in by his sister Annie.

Stanley was to become a familiar sight in Cookham, pushing a battered black pram that contained his canvas and easel.

Sir Stanley Spencer with his pram in Cookham Lane - 1958

In 1959 Stanley was knighted, later that year on 14th December he died of cancer at The Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital in Taplow Buckinghamshire.

1954 Portrait of Sir Stanley Spencer by Ida Kar
© National Portrait Gallery, London

 



Dunklesbuhler - Angels and Diamonds

Angel monument to Kathleen Dunkels, Frances Dunkels and Ernest Dunkels, Maidenhead All Saints Cemetery, Maidenhead, Berkshire, England

"Kathleen Dunkles 15 August 1906

Frances Dunkles 16 December 1953

Ernest Dunkels 12 September 1956"

Ernest Dunkles was born Ernest Dunkelsbuhler on 18th February 1880 in London, Middlesex to German parents Anton and Minna Buchenbacher.  Anton was a famous diamond dealer who owned Anton Dunkelsbuhler & Company.  Ernest became a barrister and assumed the surname Dunkles in 1895, perhaps he felt it would be easier for his clients and neighbours than Dunkelsbuhler.

Ernest can first be found on the 1881 Census living with his parents and siblings at 255 Camden Road, Islington, London. Visiting the family at the time of the Census was Anton's brother Siegfried, a pencil manufacturer. by 1891 the family had moved to 36 Belsize Park, Hampstead, London, where they can still be found on the 1901 Census.

In 1909 Ernest married Frances Stanton Van Nostrand, who travelled to England from New York on the ship Germanic on 9th June 1897.  On the Incoming Passengers List her occupation is listed simply as 'Lady'.  They lived together in Woodhurst, Ray Mead Rad, Maidenhead and in the June of 1910, they celebrated the birth of their daughter Kathleen Daphne Dunkels. George Anthony followed in 1911, Cynthia Dorothea in 1913, and Marjorie Patricia in 1916.  That same year Ernest enlisted and served in The Great War at home as a Clerk for the Women's Forage Corps. In 1939 Ernest and Frances are still living at Woodhurst, along with their two younger daughters Cynthia, and Marjorie. Living with them is their son George, now a barrister at law, and his wife Mollie Renton. Frances was to pass away on the 16th December of 1953.  Frances's Obituary was reported in the Maidenhead Advertiser on 18th December 1953 as follows:

"Obituary

Mrs. Frances Dunkels

Mrs. Frances Dunkels, second wife of Mr. Ernest Dunkels of Woodhurst, Ray Mead-rd., died at her home on Wednesday. She had been ill for three years. For many years Mr. Dunkels has been a patron of all Maidenhead sportsmen and has given many trophies to local clubs. his wife was of a retiring disposition and took no part in local events. The funeral will take place at Maidenhead Cemetery on Sunday." - Maidenhead Advertiser, 18th December 1953.

Ernest was a keen sportsman, he enjoyed football, cricket, tennis, and swimming, becoming President of the Maidenhead Football Club in 1919 and opening the new 500 seat stand in 1922. Ernest also lends his name to the Dunckel Swimming Cup, the cup presented to the winners of the long-distance Boulter's to Bray Swim. Ernest was to follow his wife three years later.  The Maidenhead Advertiser reported on his death on 14th September 1956 as follows:

"Ernest Dunkels Dies at 76

The death occurred on Wednesday at his London home, 49 Hallam St., W1, of Mr. Ernest Dunkels, formerly of Woodhurst, Ray Mead Rd. He was 76.

Mr. Dunkels lived in Maidenhead for about 50 years and left the district some two years ago when Woodhurst was sold. The house was bought by actress Diana Dors.

Mr. Dunkels was a great philanthropist, but he shunned publicity. He supported many local societies and organisations but much of his assistance was given anonymously. He was a well-known figure in Maidenhead, but it was a tribute to his modesty that few people knew much about him or his many works for the town. 

A Swimmer.

He was president of Maidenhead United Football Club from 1919 until 1947, and president of Maidenhead Regatta and the York Road Lawn Tennis Club for many years. He was also president of the Swimming Club, and among the sporting trophies he gave to the town are the cups for the two Thames long swims. Mr. Dunkels himself swam in the race. For some years Mr. Dunkels ran a nursing home for children (now Maidenhead Nursing Home) Near Boulter's Lock. Young people were cared for free of charge.

Mr. Dunkels practiced as a barrister before the war. He had an interest in cinemas and built the Plaza in Queen St. during the pioneer days of movies. 

His second wife, Mrs. Frances Dunkels, died three years ago. He leaves a son and three daughters. The funeral will take place quietly today (Friday)." - Maidenhead Advertiser, 14th September 1956.

In a previous version of this post, I mistakenly stated that Kathleen Dunkels was Ernest's sister Fanny. Back when I originally researched this family in 2012 many of the records were either unavailable online or poorly transcribed.  Kathleen M Dunkels who died on 15th August 1906 was in fact Ernest's first wife. Unfortunately, I can find very little about her, but will continue to keep researching.