Addison, Joseph (1906)
Joseph Addison was born in Norfolk in 1855 to Tea Dealer John Addison and his Schoolmistress wife Mary. He married Ann Elizabeth Stansfield, a Certified Elementary School Teacher from Bradford, the marriage taking place in Scarborough in 1884. They set up home in York where they raised five sons. Joseph’s role as a Temperance Lecturer would see him moving his family to various addresses around the country.
Sadly, Joseph’s son Frederic passed away aged 3½ years, and another son named Walter passed away aged 4 years. His youngest son Herbert however, was more fortunate; he went on to receive an OBE in King George VI’s 1948 Birthday Honours list in recognition of his work as Professor of Hydraulic Machines at Fouad el-Awal University, Cairo, Egypt. He was also Vice-President and Chairman of the Anglo-Egyptian Association.
Airie, Nellie (1900)
Nellie Airie lived with her widowed grandmother Annie Slee at 13 Lister Terrace, Wolsingham. No further records found for Nellie Airie.
Ambler, Emily (Florence) (1910)
Emily Ambler was the sister of pupil William Ambler. They lived at 6 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham with their parents John, a Fireman at the Steelworks Boilers, and Bella. In 1936, Florence Emily married Thomas Wharton from Wolsingham, setting up home in Stanhope Road where Thomas was employed as an Office Manager at the Steel Company.
Florence passed away on December 5th 1992 aged 93 years.
Researched Names
(Year in brackets is the year in which the individual was first mentioned in the book: Through The Eyes of a School, A History of the Wolsingham National School)
Anderson, Charles (1900)
Charles Anderson is the younger brother of former school assistant Isabella Anderson. Charles lived at Wiserley Cottage, Wolsingham before moving to Leazes Cottage, where his father George was employed as a Gardener. After leaving school, Charles became a Patternmaker’s Apprentice at the Steelworks. In 1917 he married Gladys Tindall and they lived in Darlington where Charles was employed as a Patternmaker. They had a daughter named Doris.
An unverified record shows Charles Anderson passed away in Darlington in 1969 aged 77 years.
Anderson, Lena and Annie (1903)
No records found for Lena and Annie Anderson in Wolsingham or Middleton. Possibly Helena May and Martha Annie Anderson b. Middleton-in-Teesdale and living in Cockton Hill / Blanchland in 1911?
Anderson, Louis (Louie) Isabella (1908)
Louie Anderson was born in Stanhope, but lived with her mother Esther, and sister Annie at the home of her grandparents John and Ann Anderson in East End, Wolsingham. In 1906, her mother married George Henry Dodds in Wolsingham and the family lived in Silver Street where stepfather George was employed as a Gas Producer for the Steel Furnaces at the Steelworks. Unverified records show Isabella passed away in 1990 aged 93 years.
Angus, Arthur (1911)
Born in Weardale on December 6th 1901, no further records are found for Arthur until the 1939 England and Wales Register where he was found living at the home of Jane Ann Coates (nee Angus) in Melbourne Place, Wolsingham. Unverified research suggests Arthur Angus passed away in 1966 aged 64 years.
Angus, Hilda (1908)
Hilda was born in June 1898, and as a young child she lived with her uncle John Angus and aunt Mary in East End, Wolsingham. John Angus was a General Labourer and Bill Poster.
Unverified research suggests Hilda married John Thomas Ellwood in Wolsingham on December 30th 1916, and they had three children named Kenneth John, Thomas, and Stanley Arthur. The same research suggests Hilda passed away on May 3rd 1975 aged 76 years.
Armstrong, Sarah Elizabeth (1905)
Another ‘sharp’ pupil recorded as leaving Wolsingham National School on June 9th 1905 was Sarah Armstrong.
Sarah was born in Leamington, Northumberland in December 1892 but as a child she lived at 2 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham with her father Hugh, a Foreman Steelmoulder at the Steelworks, and mother Mary Jane. Sarah had a younger sister named Mary Jane.
By 1911, the family had moved with their father’s job to South Yorkshire where they lived in Firth Park Road, Sheffield, however they had moved back to their home county by 1939 living in Longbenton, Northumberland.
Sarah Elizabeth Armstrong passed away on 19th November 1963 aged 70 years. She is buried in Benton Cemetery, Newcastle upon Tyne alongside er parents and sister.
Arnold, Rev. Henry Abel (1911)
Henry was born in 1861 in Shoreditch, London to Rev. Edward Gladwin Arnold and his wife Charlotte Georgiana Cholmondeley. In 1892, he married Mary Lyle Smyth in Cheshire where they lived and raised five children including a son named Hugo Cholmondeley Arnold who served with the 4th Battalion, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment), and died of his wounds on 12th June 1917 aged 19.
Rev. Arnold was Rector of Wolsingham from 1913 to 1934 until his death on December 29th 1934 aged 73 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham under the inscription ‘In Thy Presence is Fulness of Joy’.
Ashbridge, John William (1906)
John Ashbridge was born on April 28th 1893 in Shadforth, Durham but was raised in Wolsingham living at Holbeck Mill with his parents John, a Farmer, and Elizabeth. John had five siblings named Ethel Ann, Hilda Margaret, Arthur Vart, Adelaide Lucy, and Mary Elizabeth.
The family moved to Whitby where they farmed at Manor House Farm in Sneaton. John worked on the family farm before marrying Maria Harrison Peacock in 1913. They set up home in Sneaton Lane, Whitby where John was employed as a Motor Lorry Driver. He passed away in 1957 aged 64 years.
Bainbridge, Mr (1896)
No records are found for a Certified Master named Bainbridge in the County Durham area at this time.
Baker, Elizabeth (Lily) Horsley (1898)
Elizabeth Baker lived with her family in High Tenters Street, Bishop Auckland where her father Thomas was a Tallow Chandler (Candle maker/seller), employing 2 men and 1 boy. She had a brother named Thomas.
The family moved to Upper Town, Wolsingham when her father gained employment as a Weighman at the Steelworks. Elizabeth became an Assistant Mistress at Wolsingham National School before progressing into the role of Assistant Certificated Teacher when the County Council Elementary School opened.
On January 29th 1917 Elizabeth married Roger Storey, a farmer of High Hall Farm, Coxhoe. She passed away in 1935 aged 60 years.
Barclay, Leonard Lancelot (1904)
Diocesan Inspector Leonard Barclay was born a British Subject in Cannanore, India in 1860. He attended Boarding School in Duddingston, Midlothian before moving to Morton in Lincolnshire in the role of Clerk in Holy Orders. In 1891, Leonard married Beatrice Sarah Sharpe in Haggerston, Hackney, London and they lived in Chester le Street, then Crossgate Moor raising five children. He passed away on June 5th 1934 aged 74 years.
Barker, Marion, George and Leonard (1910)
Marion, George, and Leonard Barker were born in Sculcoates, Hull where they lived with their father George, a Gas Stoker, and mother Rebecca. Their father brought them to Wolsingham when he took up the role of Live-in Manager at the Wolsingham Gas Works. Two more siblings named Cyril, and Allen, were born after the family moved into the village.
The eldest child Marion was born in August 1898, she moved back to Hull to marry Arthur E Lowther in 1929. They set up home in Goddard Road, Hull, where Arthur ran his own business as a Coal Merchant and Carting Agent. They had one child named Terence. Marion passed away in October 1979 aged 81 years.
George was born in 1900. He also returned to Hull, marrying Lillian Pack in Sculcoates in 1922. They set up home in Wakefield where George worked as a Manager of an Ice Cream Depot. He passed away in December 1980 aged 80 years
The youngest of the three Barker children admitted into Wolsingham National School was Leonard. Born in 1902, he married Elsie Elwick, from Scarborough in December 1932.
The marriage of Leonard Barker and Elsie Elwick, Scarborough, December 1932. [Ian Noble originally shared this on Ancestry.co.uk]
Leonard and Elsie Barker moved to Cheadle in Cheshire, where Leonard was employed as a Grocery Manager. He passed away in 1944 aged 42 years.
Bates, Thomas Holden (1868)
Thomas Holden Bates was born in Wolsingham on April 18th 1813. A qualified Solicitor, he initially lived in Front Street with his widowed mother Frances. In 1853, he married Eliza Raw from Middlesex, the marriage taking place in Stockwell, Lambeth, and on July 16th 1854, they welcomed their only child; a son named Thomas Carleton. In 1865 he built a home for his family on the west side of Wolsingham and named it ‘Mayfield’. Thomas Holden Bates passed away on November 17th 1878 aged 65 years and is buried in the family plot in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham.
Just a few months after his death, Mayfield was offered up for sale by his son Thomas Carleton Bates. It was purchased by Mr Thomas. E. Fenwick, a Colliery Proprietor:
Newcastle Courant - Friday 07 March 1879
TO BE SOLD or LET, with immediate possession,
Mayfield, near Wolsingham, in the county of Durham.
This most desirable residence is situated within a quarter of a mile of the town of Wolsingham, and half a mile from the railway station.
The House stands in its own grounds (containing 4 acres 3 roods), commanding most extensive and charming views of the surrounding country. The gardens are well stocked with choice fruit trees, and the lawn and shrubberies have been laid out with the greatest taste and skill.
The House is of the most modern construction, and contains every requisite for a Gentleman's Residence, being designed alike for elegance, comfort, and convenience; and comprises, on the ground floor, lofty dining and drawing rooms, two libraries, study, and work room, besides kitchens, laundries, &c., &c.; on the second floor, seven bed rooms, three dressing rooms, bath room (with hot and cold water), and every other convenience; servants' rooms, &c., &c.
A Meadow Field, containing 4½ acres, can be Sold or Let with the House, and other Fields, if desired; also, a good Stable and Coach House in the immediate vicinity.
Further particulars and cards to view may be obtained from T. CARLETON BATES, Esq., the owner, 3, Graham Street, Eaton Square, London, S.W.; or JOHN LEE, Mayfield, Wolsingham.
Bates, Thomas (1892)
Thomas Bates was given an exemption due to ‘Prolonged illness’. He was one of seven children born to Thomas, a General Labourer at the Steel Works, and Elizabeth, living in Upper Town, Wolsingham.
Thomas became a Mechanical Engineer, and married Annie, setting up home in Upper Town. The 1911 census showed Thomas and Annie had a child although the child was no longer living by the time of the census was taken.
Thomas Bates passed away on October 16th 1921 aged 42 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his wife, with the inscription ‘Peace Perfect Peace’
Baxter, Mary Alice, and Sarah Edith (1907)
Mary Alice, and Sarah Edith Baxter lived on the St. John’s Estate, Wolsingham with their parents William, a Cartman, and Sarah.
Mary Alice married Joseph Kirton Walker of Satley in 1922 and they set up home at Hollinside Lodge, Lanchester where husband Joseph was a Cartwright. She passed away in 1983 aged 85 years.
Mary’s sister Sarah Edith was born in February 1900. She married Arthur Bell in 1924 and lived at West Shields Farm, Satley where Arthur was a Working Farmer. They had a daughter named Irene. She passed away in October 1964 aged 64 years.
Bell, Ann (1872)
Ann lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her parents Christopher and Sarah. Her father Christopher was employed as a Shoemaker and she was one of six children. By the age of 15, Ann was working as a Servant in the home of Painter and Decorator Robert Morgan and his family in High Street, Wolsingham. No further records found for Ann Bell.
Bell, James (1892)
James lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham before moving to Meadhope Street. After leaving school, he found employment at the Steelworks as a Forgeman. By 1911, 31-year-old James had moved in with his brother Henry at 11 Durham Road, Wolsingham where they both worked at the Steelworks; James as a Steel Dresser, and Henry as a Steel Moulder.
No further records found for James Bell.
Bennet, Dr. (1910)
No records found for a Dr Bennet.
Blackett, John Joseph (1902)
John Blackett was born on March 10th 1890 and lived in the Causeway, Wolsingham with his father Alfred, a File Cutter, his mother Isabella, and his brother Hugh. His father passed away on December 20th 1892, and his mother remarried in 1895. John then lived at 6 Attwood Terrace with his step-father John Ambler, a Fireman at the Steelworks Boilers. On leaving school, John found employment as a Steel Dresser at the Steelworks.
In 1914, married Jennie Batie and they lived at 15 Ward Terrace, then 11 Lister Terrace. They had a son named Jack. John passed away on August 5th 1960 aged 70 years.
Blackett, Stella (1902)
Stella was the sister of pupil John Blackett. They lived at 6 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham with their mother Bella and step-father John Ambler.
No further records found for Stella Blackett
Bloomfield, Harriet (1894)
Harriet Bloomfield was born in Wolsingham on November 26th 1884, but by the age of 6 she was living in Landsdown Street, Darlington with her parents Philip, a Steel Finisher, and Margaret. After leaving school, she found employment as a General Domestic Servant at the home of Hannah Wood in Stanhope Road, Darlington.
By 1911, Harriet had married George Henry Smith, a Railway Worker from Cockerton, Durham and they lived in Croft Junction Cottages, Darlington, where they raised four children. George’s promotion to a supervisory job with the Railways took them to Railway Cottages in Loftus, North Yorkshire.
No further records found for Harriet Smith (nee Bloomfield).
Blythe, Margaret Bertha (1906)
Margaret was the younger sister of pupil Sydney Theodore Blythe. They lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham where their father John was employed as a Steam Engine Maker at the Steelworks. She had four other siblings with equally distinct names: John Cecil, Hildreth Alderson, Edward Delibar, and Jenny Dora.
No further records found for Margaret Bertha Blythe.
Blythe, Sydney Theodore (1893)
Sydney Blythe was born on December 31st 1882 to Steam Engine Fitter John and his wife Margaret, living in Angate Street, Wolsingham. Sydney had two younger brothers named John and Edward, as well as three younger sisters named Hildreth, Margaret, and Jenny.
After schooling, Sydney secured an apprenticeship as a Steel Moulder. In 1906, he married Alice Cox from Frosterley, and they set up home in Upper Town, where they raised two sons named John, and Thomas. (Their youngest son Thomas passed away in 1928 aged 19 years). In later life, Sydney and Alice became Publicans running The Hare & Hounds Hotel in Front Street, Westgate.
Sydney passed away on March 3rd 1946 aged 64 years, and his wife passed away the following year aged 62 years. They are buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside their son Thomas.
Bolam, Frederick George (1902)
Frederick was the son of Robert, a steel moulder, and Elizabeth Jane Bolam who lived at Waskerley Side, Wolsingham. He had three brothers named Robert Henry, John Geldard, and James and three sisters named Annie, Jennie, and Nellie.
Frederick and his family departed from Liverpool on August 23rd 1893, onboard the ship Germanic bound for New York. His younger brother James was born whilst they were living in Buffalo.
The family were back in Wolsingham 8 years after departing for America, living in Meadhope Street. Whilst back in Wolsingham, Frederick’s three sisters were born. His father Robert passed away in 1907 leaving his mother Elizabeth with seven children aged between 1 and 18. Frederick and his brothers all found employment at the Steelworks. He passed away in 1950 aged 60 years.
Bolam, James Cansfield (1903)
James was the brother of former pupils John Geldard, Robert Henry, and Frederick George Bolam. The family had previously departed for New York in 1893 but were back in Wolsingham by the time the 1901 census was taken. It was during their time in America that James was born, his birth recorded in 1895 in Buffalo, USA.
After finishing school, James worked at the Steelworks as an Engineer Fitter Turner. Unverified records suggest James spent time with the Royal Air Force before passing away in 1966 aged 71 years.
Bolam, (Robert) Henry (1903)
Henry was born in November 1890 to Robert, a Steelmoulder, and his wife Elizabeth Jane living in Waskerley Side, Wolsingham.
Robert and his family departed for New York in 1893 but eight years later they had returned to Wolsingham. Robert found employment as a Steel Moulder’s Apprentice at the Steelworks and, in 1915, he married Elizabeth Jane Vasey from Wolsingham. He passed away in 1962 aged 71 years.
Bowe, Elizabeth Ann (1903)
Elizabeth lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her parents Dennis and Elizabeth. Her father made his living as a Hawker and General Labourer. She had three brothers named James, John, and George, and four sisters named Catherine, Bella, Martha, and Helen. Elizabeth doesn’t appear on any further records. However, the family’s 1911 census return does reveal her mother had given birth to a total of 13 children, 5 of which had passed away.
Bowe, James (1901)
James Bowe lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with his parents Dennis and Elizabeth. Census records show James had five sisters named Catherine, Bella, Elizabeth, Martha and Helen, although the 1911 record shows his parents had a total of 13 children, of which five had passed away by the time the census was taken.
James married Rhoda Richards from Tow Law in 1914 and they lived at Orchard House, East End, Wolsingham where James worked as a General Labourer at the Steelworks. He passed away in Weardale in 1940 aged 46 years.
Bowes, Annie Elizabeth (1895)
Annie Bowes was born to Mary Tweddle in 1884. Her mother married John Bowes in 1885 and the family lived at Waskerley Side, Wolsingham where John Bowes was a Stationary Engineman. Annie had four sisters named Nora, Gwendoline, Eveline and Grace, as well as three brothers named Joseph, Robert, and John.
After leaving school, Annie went into domestic service working as a Domestic Housemaid at Bombay House, the home of George Wooler in West End. She married John George Thompson, a Limestone Quarryman, in 1905 and they set up home in Crawley Side, Stanhope where they raised a daughter named Florence, and a son named Ernest.
Unverified research suggests Annie Elizabeth Bowes passed away in 1969 aged 85 years.
Bowes, George Henry Percy (1911)
George Bowes is a younger brother of pupil Annie Elizabeth Bowes. He was born on January 7th 1902 and lived in Mount Pleasant, Wolsingham where his father John was employed as an Electrician in the Power Station at the Steelworks.
In 1929, George married Effie Martindale from Stanhope, and they set up home in Parson Byers Cottage, Stanhope where they raised their son Gordon. George was employed as a Horse Keeper at the Limestone Quarry.
George Henry Percy Bowes passed away on November 21st 1978 aged 76 years.
Bowes, Phillis Evelyn (Eveline) (1909)
Phillis, known as Eveline, was born in May 1895 and was the sister of pupil Annie Elizabeth Bowes. Both girls lived in Mount Pleasant, Wolsingham with their parents John and Mary. After leaving school, Eveline went into service as a Domestic Day Girl.
In 1919, Eveline married Lionel Walton and they set up home in Skelton, North Yorkshire where Lionel and Evaline were the Caretaker and Cook at a Camp School. Evaline passed away in 1984 aged 89 years.
Bowes, Percy (1910)
No records found for Percy Bowes (Possibly: George Henry Percy Bowes 1902–1978, BIRTH 7 JAN 1902 Wolsingham, Durham, England, DEATH 21 NOV 1978 • Darlington?)
Bowron, Simpson (Simeon) (1910)
Simeon was born in 1900 and lived in East End, Wolsingham with his father James, a Moulder at the Steelworks, and mother Mary Ann. Simeon has a brother named Albert, and three sisters named Louisa, Emma and Jane Ann. Simeon also had a sister he would never meet; his sister Annie Serena passed away in 1900 aged five years, just before Simeon was born.
Simeon’s mother passed away in 1904 aged 32 years when Simeon was just four years old. The family then moved to 12 Attwood Terrace. Further tragedy would hit the Bowron family in 1918 when Simeon’s only brother Albert, a Sergeant with The Durham Light Infantry, was killed in action in France.
In 1929, Simeon married Minnie Robinson from Wolsingham. They lived in Grangefield Road, Stockton-on-Tees, where Simeon was employed as a Carbon Arc Electric Welder at an Engineering Works. Simeon passed away on August 9th 1965 aged 65 years.
Briggs, Edith Annie (1895)
Edith Briggs was the sister of John William Briggs. In 1901, 17-year-old Edith was the only family member still living with her widowed father in Causeway, Wolsingham. She married Robert Bruce McLean in 1905 and passed away just four years later aged 25 years.
Briggs, John William (1887)
John Briggs was exempt from the examination due to ‘Dullness’.
John lived in Walk Mill Green, Wolsingham, with his father Joseph, a File Cutter, and mother Elizabeth. His parents had nine other children.
By 1891, the Briggs family were living in Causeway, Wolsingham. John was set to work in the family business, following an apprenticeship as a File Cutter. On August 28th 1898, he married Susan Craig from Scotland, and they lived in West End, where John changed occupations and became a Greengrocer. They had two daughters named Florence May, and Eva, as well as a son named John.
No further records found for John William Briggs.
Brough, Isaac (1904)
Isaac was born in May 1897, the eldest child of William and Isabella Brough. His father was a Horse Dealer and they lived at Waterside, Silver Street, Wolsingham. Isaac had two brothers named John, and Charles, and three sisters named Mary, Martha, and Sarah.
CRUELTY TO HORSES. W. Brough, of Wolsingham, was charged with cruelty to 2 horses on the 15th September. It was stated that defendant's horses were in pain and unfit to be worked. Defendant said he only bought the horse that morning. Fined 20s and costs or one month’s imprisonment.
In 1928, Isaac married Hannah Brown and later the same year they had a son named William. A daughter named Margaret was born in 1930 followed by a second son named Bernard Austin in 1932. They set up home in Melbourne Place, Wolsingham where Isaac was employed as a Crane Slinger at the Steelworks. He passed away in 1956 aged 58 years.
Brown, Elizabeth (1879)
[No records found for an Elizabeth Brown of a suitable age – possibly related to Joseph Brown also untraced?]
Brown, Frances J. (1884)
Frances Brown was given a medical exemption due to ‘Delicate Health’. Frances lived with her parents William and Mary in Upper Town, Wolsingham. The 1891 census showed her father had no recorded occupation, however, her mother Mary was recorded as a Steam Engine Maker (Fitter) – of course, census records were prone to enumerator errors!. Frances had four siblings, and her cousin Florence Nightingale lived with the family.
Frances moved with her family to Heaton, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, then Darlington where she made her living as a Milliner.
A matching death record is found for a Frances Brown residing in Darlington, who passed away in October 1912 aged 36 years.
Brown, Jennie May (1902)
Jennie Brown was born on May 14th 1894 and lived with her parents John and Ellen in Causeway, Wolsingham, where her father was employed as a steel turner. By 1911, Jennie’s father had passed away and her mother was living with a new husband named William E. Adamson, in Dovecot Street, Stockton-on-Tees. Jennie was working in an Iron Monger’s Shop.
In 1922, Jennie married railway yard manager Fred Groves and the couple set up home in St. Hildas Road, Harrogate. She passed away in 1981 aged 86 years.
Brown, John (1909)
Outgoing School Manager John Brown was born in Wolsingham in 1864 to drayman Joseph Brown and his wife Jane. He lived in Back Lane with an elder brother named Robert, and two younger sisters named Anne, and Mary. He set up as a Stone Mason, running his own Building & Contracting business and in 1885 he married Hannah Dowson from Stanhope. The couple set up home in Front Street, Wolsingham where they raised three children named Jane Ellen, John George, and Charles Joseph.
John Brown passed away on May 26th 1950 aged 86 years, and his wife Hannah passed away in 1963; a month after her 100th birthday. They are buried together in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard.
A number of headstone’s in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard are ‘signed’ by Stone Mason John Brown, Wolsingham, including the one recording the death of his parents.
Brown, John George (1902)
John Brown lived in Front Street, Wolsingham with her parents John, a Mason, and Hannah. He had a sister named Jane, and a brother named Charles. After leaving school, John became a Stone Mason and in 1913, he married Florence Elizabeth Ann Shaw.
John’s mother Hannah passed away in 1963 aged 100 years, and John passed away later the same year aged 72 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard alongside his wife and parents.
Brown, Joseph (1879)
[No records found for a Joseph Brown of a suitable age]
Brown, Margaret Ord (1892)
Margaret Ord Brown was born on February 2nd 1873 in North Shields, Northumberland. By the age of 8, she was living in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her father Thomas, a General Labourer at the Steelworks, her mother Margaret, and her four siblings.
After the death of her mother, Margaret lived with her widowed father at 6 Attwood Terrace. After leaving the family home, Margaret boarded at the home of Mary Ellen Ewart (39) in West View, Haltwhistle, Northumberland, before moving in with her brother Joseph and his family in Hargill Road, Howden-le-Wear. Her brother Joseph was a Bricklayer at the North Bitchburn Pipe Works.
A Margaret Ord Brown, is found boarding the ship ‘Philadelphia’ in Liverpool, bound for New York on June 12th 1916. No further records found for Margaret Ord Brown.
Brown, Susan Ann (1905)
Susan lived at the Mechanic’s Institute in Wolsingham Market Place with her father William, the Institute Caretaker, and her mother Rosamond. She had a sister named Mary, and a brother named John. She went into domestic service, working as a Servant at the home of Auctioneer Albert John Wickinson and his family in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland.
No further records found for Susan Brown.
Burn, Amanda (1908)
No records found for Amanda Burn (Emily A. Burn?)
Burn, Annie (1892)
Annie Burn was born in Wolsingham in July 1879. She lived in Waskerley Side, Wolsingham with her parents Isaac, a Steel Foundry Labourer, and Jane. She had five siblings named Polly, John, George W, Florence J, and Ethel. Following the death of her father, Annie lived in Market Place with her widowed mother.
A matching death record shows Annie Burn passing away in 1963 aged 84 years.
Burn, John (1893)
John Burn was born on February 17th 1883 to former Wolsingham National School pupil Jane Smith and her husband Isaac Burn. They lived in Waskerley Side, Wolsingham along with John’s five siblings named Annie, Polly, George William, Florence Jane, and Ethel.
After leaving school, John was employed as a Shovel Platers Labourer and married Jane Seaton Elliott on March 11th 1906. They lived in Back Lane where they raised five children named Isaac, John, Robert, Albert, and Olive. Their youngest child and only daughter Olive passed away aged just 1-year-old.
When the 1939 England and Wales register was taken, John and his family were living in Post Office Lane, Wolsingham. He passed away on June 21st 1955 aged 72 years and is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his wife Jane, and son Robert.
Burn, Mabel (1910)
Mabel was born on February 9th 1898 to Steelworker William Edward Burn and his wife Emily Augusta and she was the niece of former Wolsingham National School Monitor Walter Laybourne, and cousin of former pupil Robert Laybourne. The family lived in East End, Wolsingham whilst Mabel was attending school and, although her family moved to Eldon Street in Darlington, Mabel remained in Wolsingham to finish her schooling, living with her grandparents Robert and Margaret Laybourne in East End. Mabel had four sisters named Margaret, Emily, Florence, and Hannah, and a brother named Robert Andrew.
After leaving school, Mabel worked as a Motor Shop Assistant at her Uncle Walter Laybourne’s shop in Wolsingham Market Place. On October 20th 1944, she married John Henderson and passed away on June 26th 1989 aged 91 years.
Burn(s), Laurence (1907)
Laurence Burn was born in Wolsingham and lived with his widowed aunt Hannah Morgan in the High Street where his aunt ran a Painting & Paperhanging business. In 1903, he married Annie Coates and they had a son named William Laurence the following year. Laurence ran a Decorator & Iron Monger business in Wolsingham up to his death in May 1920 aged 56 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard alongside his wife.
Caile, Violet and William (1904)
Siblings Violet and William Caile arrived with their mother at the Port of Southampton on July 16th 1904 onboard the ship Tintagel Castle having travelled from Cape Town, South Africa. Their visit to Wolsingham appears to be short as no further records are found for either Violet or William Caile.
Call, Florence (Florry) (1910)
Florence is the fourth member of the Call family to find their way into the Headmaster’s notes with Jennie, Maggie, Thomas, and William, all being researched previously. The Call family lived at 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham. Florence married Thomas William Thompson in 1919 and gave birth to at least one child. She passed away on March 20th 1978 aged 81 years.
Durham Crematorium Book of Remembrance for March 20th 1978. www.remembrance-books.com/durham/
Call, Jennie (Jenny) (1910)
Jennie was born in 1899 and was the sister of pupils Maggie, Thomas, and William Call. Her family lived at 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham where their father was employed as a Steam Engine Maker and Fitter. In 1932, Jennie married Wolsingham-born Thomas Kirkbride and they set up home in Angate Square where Thomas was employed as a Steel Castings Dresser, and Jennie was employed as a Shopkeeper. Jenny passed away in February 1989 aged 89 years.
Call, Maggie (1903)
Maggie lived in Throston, Durham with her parents William and Margaret, and brothers William and Thomas. The family moved to 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham where their father was employed as a Steam Engine Maker Fitter.
After leaving school, Margaret boarded at the home of Frederick Caldcleugh, in South Church Road, Bishop Auckland where she was employed as a Café Shop Assistant.
In 1920, Margaret married Frederick George Dent in Weardale, and the following year she gave birth to a son named Norman. Margaret passed away in 1977 aged 86 years.
Call, Thomas (1902)
(Main research included in book). The following photo of Thomas Call was kindly shared by Linda Pound 06/02/2024.
Jonathan Vickers Cameron [Gordon Cameron originally shared this on Ancestry.co.uk November 1st 2014]
Jonathan Vickers Cameron passed away in August 1958 at Wallsend aged 60 years.
Cheatham, Alice Mary (1891)
New Pupil Teacher Alice Mary Cheatham lived with her widowed mother at the home of her maternal Grandmother Elizabeth Horsley in Front Street, Wolsingham, from where the Horsley family ran a Woollen Cloth Manufacturing business. By 1901, Alice had progressed to the position of Elementary Schoolmistress, eventually taking up a role at the Wolsingham Council School in 1911. She passed away on June 27th 1916 aged 40 years and is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside her maternal grandparents and her uncle.
Clarke, W.T. (1909)
No records found for Assistant School Inspector W. T. Clarke
Records show a John Coates, employed as a Commercial Traveller, and born in Wolsingham, was lodging at the home of Mantle Maker Sarah Young at 14 Lester Place, St. Anne’s, London. No further records found.
Coates, John (1866)
A second John Coates makes an appearance in the Headmaster’s notes. John lived in East End, Wolsingham with his parents William, an Edge Tool Maker, and Mary, along with six brothers and one sister. John found employment at the Steelworks, first as a Labourer, progressing into the role of Fettler, (a Fettler was employed to clean the machinery).
On May 13th 1876, John Coates married Agnes McKissack from Largy, County Donegal, Ireland, and they raised their three children in the East End of Wolsingham. Sadly, John and Agnes lost their eldest child Mary at just 5 years old. On January 13th 1885, just three years after their daughter’s death, John Coates passed away aged 30 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his wife and daughter Mary.
Coates, Mabel Annie (1909)
Mabel was the elder sister of pupil William Coates. She was born in March 1894 and lived in Melbourne Place, Wolsingham. Her death was recorded in the Western Durham in 1977 aged 82 years.
Coates, Thomas Nicholas (1864)
Thomas was the brother of former pupil John Coates, research. In 1876, employed as a Joiner, Thomas married Elizabeth Craggs from Wolsingham and they set up home in Front Street, Wolsingham where they raised their seven children named Arthur, Ellen, Charles, Fred, Mary, Nora and Lizzie. He passed away on August 23rd 1936 aged 85 years.
Thomas Nicholas Coates and wife Elizabeth (nee Craggs) [Photo: jbthompson127 originally shared this on Ancestry.co.uk 17 Apr 2014]
Colling, John (1864)
John Colling lived in East End, Wolsingham with his father Joseph, a Drayman, his mother Isabella, and two sisters named Susanah and Ann. Like many others in the area, John found employment as a Lead Miner.
John Colling married Mary Vickers in 1876 and they had two sons named William, and John Vickers. They moved to Commercial Street, Willington, where john found employment as a Brick Burner. His wife Mary passed away in March 1883 and three years later he married Hannah Sanderson from Hedleyhope. Hannah gave birth to two sons named George Brown, and Frederick, and a daughter named Isabella. Sadly, he was widowed once again with the passing of his second wife in October 1898.
A matching death record exists for a John Colling registered in Bishop Auckland, 1932 aged 77 years.
Collinson, Edith (1900)
Edith was born in Ferryhill, and lived in Upper Town, Wolsingham with her parents John George, a Steel Furnaceman, and Jane Ann, as well as her three siblings named Elizabeth Wolfe, Hilda Mary, and Simpson. Unverified research suggests Edith Collinson passed away before her 18th birthday.
Collinson, Elizabeth (Lizzie) (1905)
Lizzie Collinson was the younger sister of Edith Collinson, and the niece of her namesake Elizabeth Wolfe Collinson. Born in Ferryhill Village, Elizabeth lived at 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham with her parents John George, a Steel Furnaceman, and Jane Ann. As well as Edith, she had a further eight siblings named Hilda Mary, Simpson, William, Thomas, Mabel, Marshall, Emily and Jennie.
No further records are found for Elizabeth (Lizzie) Collinson
Collinson, Elizabeth Wolfe (1890)
Elizabeth was the daughter of Simpson and Elizabeth Collinson. Her father Simpson Collinson was a Cartman and Innkeeper at the Queen’s Head Inn in Front Street, Wolsingham. She had three brothers named Marshall, John George, and William, as well as three sisters named Mary, Maggie, and Nellie.
In 1895, Elizabeth married Steel Turner Nicholas Urwin (brother of former pupils Thomas and John Urwin) They set up home in West End, Wolsingham and had two children named Jane, and William.
According to unverified research, Elizabeth Urwin (nee Collinson), passed away in 1908 aged 31 years.
Collinson, Hilda (Mary) (1908)
Hilda was the younger sister of Elizabeth Collinson who had previously been singled out for failing to meet the Headmaster’s strict hygiene standards. Hilda and Elizabeth were part of a large family living at 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham where their father John was employed as a Furnaceman at the Steelworks.
In 1921, Hilda married Coal Hewer and Road Warden Llewellyn Richards from Stockton and gave birth to two sons named Eric, and Kenneth whilst living in Sedgefield. Hilda’s husband Llewellyn passed away in the spring of 1955 and she remarried in 1960 taking Elias William Charlton from Bishop Auckland as her second husband. Sadly, this marriage lasted less than 5 years with Elias passing away in the summer of 1965. Unverified research shows Hilda Mary passed away in 1989 aged 90 years.
Collinson, William (1911)
William was born on May 17th 1902, and was the brother of pupils Elizabeth and Mary Collinson, all members of a large family living at 20 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham.
On June 27th 1926, William married Harriet Aitken in Castle Ward, Northumberland and they had two children named Elizabeth, and George William. They lived in Upper Town Wolsingham where William was employed as a Saw Mill Labourer. William passed away on September 7th 1972 aged 70 years. He is buried alongside his wife in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham.
Copley, Blanche (1910)
Blanche was born in 1898 and she was the daughter of former Wolsingham National School pupil John Robert Copley. She lived with her parents John, a Traffic Clerk at the Steelworks, and Elizabeth in Causeway, Wolsingham before the family moved to 1 Attwood Terrace where her father John worked as a Traffic Clerk at the Steelworks.
In 1924, Blanche married William Baker in Gateshead and three years later she gave birth to a daughter named Joan Elizabeth. They lived in Newport, Isle of Wight where her husband was employed as a Fancy & Stationery Dealer Manager.
Unverified research suggests Blanche Baker (nee Copley) passed away on January 23rd 1982 aged 83 in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Copley, Etty (Esther) Edith (1893)
Esther was the sister of pupil Mary Copley. They lived in East End, Wolsingham, where their father Illingworth was employed as a Foundry Labourer.
Following the passing of her father in 1900, Esther earned her living as a Dressmaker living with her mother in Cooperative Terrace. She married Frederick Brown, a fire clay miner from Shotton, in 1901 and they lived in Witton-le-Wear.
No further records found for Esther Copley
Copley, Harold (1907)
Harold was born in 1900 to Joseph and Margaret Copley and lived in East End, Wolsingham where his father was employed as a Steel Moulder. He had two sisters named Alice and Doris although his mother Margaret recorded giving birth to four children, one of which died.
After completing his schooling, Harold worked as a Grocer. In 1918, he enlisted with the 53rd Battalion Northumberland Fusiliers, before being transferred to the 6th Battalion, Yorkshire Regiment. For his service in the Great War, Harold received the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
No further records found for Harold Copley.
Copley, Janet Agnes (1892)
Janet Agnes Copley lived with her sister Elizabeth and parents Walter and Elizabeth in Market Place, Wolsingham, where Walter was employed as a Steel Furnaceman. After leaving school, Janet earned her living as a Dressmaker based at the family home in the Market Place. In 1902, she married John Thomas Rutter and lived in East End, Wolsingham raising four children named Tom Illingworth, Nellie, Wilfred, and John Walter.
Janet and her husband were living in Washington when they passed away. John Rutter passed away in 1949 aged 80 years, and Janet Agnes Rutter (nee Copley) passed away ten years later aged 81 years.
Copley, John Robert (1885)
John lived in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham with parents Illingworth and Sarah, and sister Mary. He secured an apprenticeship as a Steel Moulder at the Steelworks before he married Elizabeth Ellen Charlesworth in July 1897. They lived in the Causeway, Wolsingham where John worked as a Traffic Clerk at the Steelworks, and they had a daughter named Blanche. He passed away on November 21st 1938 aged 66 years and is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his wife.
Copley, Mary Martha (1884)
Mary Copley was given an exemption for the reason of ‘Dullness’. (Dullness was a term often used to describe a child’s general intelligence; a ‘Dull’ child being one with a less than normal intelligence).
Mary Martha Copley was born in October 1875 and lived with her parents Illingworth and Sarah in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham. Her father was employed as a Labourer at the Steel Works, and she had six siblings.
In 1896, Mary married John Joseph Keenleyside from Allendale, Northumberland, and they set up home at 15 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham where husband John worked as a Gas Stoker. They had a son named Arthur.
Mary and John moved to 7 Lister Terrace when John took up the position of Fireman at the Steel Works. The next record found for Mary was in the 1939 England and Wales Register where she was living at Black Bull Cottages, Wolsingham with an 8-year-old schoolchild named Audrey Keenleyside, possibly her grandchild.
Mary Martha Keenleyside (nee Copley) passed away in 1948 aged 72 years.
Coulson, Stephen (1865)
Stephen Coulson lived at Quarry House, Wolsingham with his father Thomas, a Coal Miner, mother Isabella, and six siblings.
By 17, Stephen was employed as a Mason’s Apprentice living with his family at Redgate Quarry, Wolsingham. On February 3rd 1879 he married Sarah Ann Whitfield in Wolsingham and they set up home in Meadhope Street. They had a daughter named Elizabeth before moving to 5 Chipchase Street, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, where Stephen took up the role of Foreman Bricklayer.
The family then moved to High Fold Farm, Crook where Stephen was employed as a Mason (below ground). Records show Stephen and Sarah Ann had a total of nine children, although only five were still living at the time of the 1911 census return.
No further records found for Stephen Coulson
Coulson, William (1866)
William lived at Quarry House, Wolsingham. By the age of 14, he was employed as a Miller’s labourer. On March 24th 1879, he married Elizabeth Wharton, and they set up home in Front Street, Wolsingham where they raised two children, a son named John and a daughter named Elizabeth Jane. William went on to work as a Steel Moulder at the steelworks.
Sadly, William’s daughter Elizabeth Jane passed away on October 16th 1900 aged 18 years, and his wife Elizabeth passed away on May 23rd 1906 aged 46 years. William remarried, taking Annie Bell from Wolsingham as his second wife. He passed away in 1935 aged 78 years.
Crompton, Mr. (1896)
No records found for a Mr. Crompton.
Call, William (1892)
William Call would have been around 11 years old when he was taken out of the Infants school. He lived in Brewer Street, Bishop Auckland with his father William, an Engine Fitter, and mother Margaret before moving to Hartlepool where his father took up a job as a Marine Engine Fitter. William had seven sisters named Mary, Maria, Laura, Margaret, Florence, Jenny, and Edith, and a brother named Thomas.
The family moved to Wolsingham and lived at 20 Attwood Terrace where his father was employed as a Steam Engine Maker Fitter. Although William was recorded as an ‘Invalid’, he was able to secure work as a Yard Labourer after he left school. He passed away on March 2nd 1919 aged 38 years and is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his parents and his sister Laura.
Cameron, Jonathan Vickers (1904)
Jonathan Cameron was born on September 8th 1897 in Leamington, Northumberland to Steel Moulder William Cameron and his wife Minnie. Jonathan lived with his parents, brothers Lawrence and William, and sisters Charlotte and Elizabeth. In September 1921, he married Florence Opie from Cramlington, and they had four sons named William, Jonathon Vickers, Charles Douglas, and Ivan, whilst living in North Terrace, Wallsend where Jonathan was employed as a Foundry Crane Driver.
Clemment (1863)
No records found for a female named Clemment in area at this time.
Coates, John (1864)
John Coates lived in East End, Wolsingham with his father John, a Shaft Maker employing eight men, and his mother Mary. John had five brothers named William, George, Thomas, Nicholas, and Harry, and a sister named Margaret.
Daglish, Ethel (1904)
No records found for Ethel Daglish
Dalton, Joseph (1872)
Born in Stanhope, Joseph Dalton was a Schoolmaster, living with his parents at Allers, St. John’s Chapel. He married Elizabeth Ann Maddison from Stanhope in 1875 and passed away on November 27th 1914 aged 65 years.
Davison, Joseph (1866)
Baptised on December 7th 1851 in West Rainton, Durham, Joseph was the younger brother of pupil William Davison. He lived at Tunstall House, Wolsingham, before moving to Hutt Street, Gateshead, where he was described as ‘Lame from Paralysis’. He married Martha Jane Smith from Yorkshire in April 1877 and moved to Bolton-upon-Dearne, Doncaster where they raised four children named Sarah Ann, George William, Mary, and Eliza. Joseph moved his family once again, settling in Seaham before he passed away in 1908 aged 58 years.
Davison, Mary (1868)
Ten years after Mary Davison appeared on the 1871 census with her brothers William and Joseph at living in Gateshead, she appeared as a visitor at the home of Horace Saint Paul Armstrong at 12 Queens Street, Darlington where she was employed as a School Mistress, demonstrating the promise her Headmaster had referred to in his notes. Mary moved to Kirby, North Yorkshire where she continued in her teaching role.
Unverified research suggests Mary Davison passed away in 1903 aged 45 years.
Davison, Robert (1868)
The third Davison child leaving Wolsingham National School in 1868 was Robert Davison. As a 19-year-old, Robert was an Unemployed Grocer living in the family home at 22 Derwentwater Road, Gateshead. However, Robert passed away nine years later, on September 2nd 1890 aged 28 years.
Davison, Thomas (1868)
Mary’s younger brother Thomas was born on August 5th 1859 and appeared on the 1881 census living at 99 Wandworth Road, Lambeth along with his sister Eleanor. Thomas also realised the potential indicated by his Headmaster; employed as a School Teacher in Lambeth.
On August 8th 1882, Thomas Davison married Christina Galley from Sedgefield. Christina gave birth to a son Henry whilst living in Wiltshire in 1883, and a daughter Janette on July 21st 1885. The family moved to Highland Hall, Renwick, Cumberland where Thomas was employed as an Elementary Schoolmaster, a role which eventually brought him back to Gateshead.
Thomas’ wife Christina passed away on October 26th 1902. He was living in Alnwick with his widowed daughter Janette Donnelly when the 1939 register was taken. 80-year-old Thomas was recorded as a retired Schoolmaster.
Thomas was to outlive his wife by 51 years, passing away on September 22nd 1950 aged 91 years, leaving his effects to his grandson Alan Donnelly.
Davison, William (1868)
William Davison spent his childhood living at Tunstall House, Wolsingham, with his parents Thomas and Mary Ann, and his eight siblings named John, Eleanor, Joseph, Elizabeth, Mary, Thomas, Robert and Matthew.
William’s father was employed as a Colliery Viewer – the man responsible for determining the method of working and ventilating a mine. William and his family moved to Gateshead where William found employment as a Butcher. He married Sarah Elizabeth Armstrong on August 8th 1881 at Jesmond Parish Church, Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland.
William and Sarah initially lived at 5 Second Street, Gateshead where William worked as a Meat Salesman. William and Sarah had four children at this address before moving to 49 Hyde Park Street, Gateshead where they had two more children. Records indicate they had a total of nine children, with four dying in infancy.
William’s wife Sarah Elizabeth passed away in 1908 aged 49 years and William Davison passed away on June 23rd 1917 aged 64 years.
Denham, Luke (1910)
Luke was born in Newfield, Durham in 1897 to George and Emma Denham. They lived in Bridge Street, Newfield before moving to the Wheatsheaf Inn in Wolsingham where their father, formally a miner, became a Licenced Victualler for N.E. Breweries. Luke had two sisters named Mabel and Elsie.
During the Great War, Luke worked as a driver in the Royal Field Artillery. For his service, he was awarded the British War Medal and the Victory Medal.
Luke Denham. Photo: Hudson Masonic Lodge, Wolsingham. https://www.durhamatwar.org.uk/story/13942/
Luke Denham was a member of the Hudson Masonic Lodge in Wolsingham. He was initiated into the society at the age of 23 on November 2nd 1921, at which point he was employed as a butcher. Following his father’s death, he lived in Bishop Auckland with his widowed mother and sister Elsie. He passed away in 1950 aged 52 years.
Dent, N (1906)
Although there is a ‘Dent’ family living in East End, Wolsingham in the 1901 and 1911 census, there is no record of an ‘N Dent’.
Dent, Robert William (1910)
Robert Dent was born on April 24th 1897 in Wolsingham to Thomas Parnaby Dent and his wife Jane. Robert lived in Raine’s Passage, Wolsingham where his father Thomas was employed as a Gardener. He had two sisters named Anne and Phoebe Jane.
After serving in the Great War, Robert married Elsie Robinson from Castleside and they took advantage of the assistance offered by the British Legion for war veterans to start a new life in Canada, setting sail on March 29th 1930 onboard the Cunard Line ship Ausonia bound for Halifax, Canada via New York. The ship’s record showed Robert and Elsie had three children named Margaret, Norman, and Robert.
Once they had settled in Canada, Robert and Elsie had a fourth child; a son named John, but he sadly passed away at just one month old. Their infant child was buried in Carman Cemetery, Northumberland County, Ontario, Canada. Robert passed away on July 22nd 1967 aged 70 years and his wife Elsie passed away on December 27th 1996 aged 97 years.
Dixon, Jane (1875)
Mistress Dixon is recorded in the annual school inspection as having left the school in March 1875.
Jane Dixon, a fifty year old unmarried Maid found in the 1871 census living at the home of Rev. Charles Duberly at the Rectory, Wolsingham?
No records are found for Jane Dixon other than her appearance in the 1871 census. Thomas Valentine Devey’s wife?
Dobinson, Jane Ann (1870)
Jane was the younger sister of pupil John Dobinson. The family lived in Hound Hill, Wolsingham, before Jane married commercial traveller Henry Angus Raine in 1885. The following year she gave birth to their first child, a daughter named Constance Mary. They then moved to Durham where Jane gave birth to a second child, a son named John Goodburn.
Jane Ann Raine (nee Dobinson) passed away in 1930 aged 73 years.
Dobinson, John (1864)
Joseph Minikin’s fellow pupil at the National School, singled out by the Headmaster as being much ahead of the other pupils was John Dobinson. John lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with his parents John, a Cartwright, and Hannah, and five siblings. As an 18-year-old he was employed as a draper and was lodging at the home of Eleanor Emmerson, a Grocer of 6 Liddell Street, North Shields, Tynemouth.
On May 21st 1877, John married Mary Alice Frazier in North Shields and they lived at Chirton, North Shields, where John was employed furnishing draper’s bags.
York Herald - Wednesday 23 May 1877
John’s wife Mary passed away in 1887 aged 30, and John, passed away four years later on October 4th 1891 aged 39 years. They had no children.
Shields Daily News - Tuesday 06 October 1891
Dobson, Frederick (1911)
No records are found for Frederick Dobson but unverified research suggests he married fellow National School pupil Alethea Shuttleworth in 1923. He passed away in 1961 and is buried alongside his wife in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard.
Dobson, Mary (Polly) (1893)
Mary Dobson was born in 1881 and lived in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham with her parents Thomas, a Cartman, and Mary. She had three sisters named Jane, Margaret, and Elizabeth, as well as a brother named Thomas.
By the age of 20, Mary was employed as a Housemaid at the home of William and Ann Shaw in Wolsingham High Street. William Shaw was a Bank Manager, the Superintendent Registrar of Births, Deaths & Marriages, and Assistant Overseer of the Poor & Rate Collector.
When the Shaw family moved to Trod Beck House in Wolsingham, Mary moved with them continuing in her role in the household staff.
No further records found for Mary Dobson
Dodd, Annie Lawlor (1890)
Annie Lawlor Dodd lived with her parents Henry and Mary Ann at 13 Mowbray Street, Durham where her father was the Secretary of the Durham Water Company. She had three sisters and a brother. The family moved from Mowbray Street to Rokeby Villa, Crossgate, Durham. Rokeby Villa is an impressive house built for the family in 1881. Located on a generous corner plot, Rokeby Villa is a large three storey building and serves as an indication of the wealth of Annie’s family. The building can still be seen near the Neville’s Cross junction in Durham.
Rokeby Villa, Crossgate, Durham
After completing her role at Wolsingham National School, Annie became a School Mistress at Houghton-le-Spring before eventually becoming a Head Teacher for the County Council at Morton Grange, Durham. She passed away on August 24th 1932 aged 64 years, leaving her estate to her younger brother Henry.
Dodds, Angelina (1870)
Angelina Dodds lived with her father John and mother Mary at Shipley Moss, Bedburn. Her father was an Auger Maker and she was the youngest of five children.
Angelina moved to Wolsingham following the death of her father and lived with her widowed mother Mary in Meadhope Street. The promise noted by her Headmaster was achieved when Angelina moved to Billy Row to take up the role of School Mistress. Her other roles in the teaching profession took her to Headley Hope and Birtley. She passed away on September 24th 1936 aged 80 years.
Dowson, George Wilfred (1911)
George was born in Satley on January 13th 1900. When the 1901 census is taken, He lived at 3 Broadwood Cottages, Satley with his parents George, a Shepherd, and Amelia. George had a brother named Frederick Matthew, and a sister named Amy. The family moved to Holywell Farm, Satley when George’s father took up employment as a Farm Labourer.
In 1928, George married Ellen Eliza Morallee of Hedleyhope, and they had a child named Matthew living at 1 Railway Cottage, Lanchester. George was employed in the coal mines as a Colliery Hewer. He passed away in 1980 aged 80 years.
Driver, Florence (Flossie) Annie (1908)
Florence was born in Frosterley and lived at 7 Durham Road Cottages, Wolsingham with her parents William, a Boiler Fireman at the Steelworks and Margaret, and she had a sister named Adelaide. Following the death of her mother, Florence’s father William swapped his occupation at the Steelworks for the role of Innkeeper at the Black Lion Inn. Florence assisted her father in the Business.
In 1920, Florence married Stephen Maddison Harrison from Frosterley and they lived in Primrose Terrace, Crook where Stephen was employed as a Hotel Manager. Florence passed away on March 20th 1982 aged 85 years.
Durham Crematorium Book of Remembrance. www.remembrance-books.com/durham/
Driver, M (1910)
No records found possibly Adelade May Driver sister to Florence Driver
Drummond, William Bond (1902)
William Drummond was born in 1890 in Tow Law. He lived in Wesley Street with his father Henry, an Iron Moulder, and his mother Elizabeth. He had a brother named Harry, and two sisters named Elizabeth Amelia, and Jeanette. The family moved to Cooperative Terrace, Wolsingham where his father found employment as a Steel Moulder at the Steelworks. After he completed his schooling, William studied as a Technical Draughtsman and followed a career as a Civil Engineer.
In 1915, joined the North Riding Corps of the Royal Engineers. His Attestation Papers show his address as 31 Alderson Street, West Hartlepool. His occupation is recorded as a Draughtsman.
William Bond Drummond passed away on December 1st 1954 aged 64 years.
Duberly, Rev. Charles (1875)
The Rev. Charles Duberly was the rector of Wolsingham from 1856 until his death on 8th December 1876. He was born in Staughton, Huntingdonshire in 1810. His ancestral home was Gaynes Hall, Huntingdonshire. Oliver Cromwell was a tenant of the Gaynes Hall estate for 21 years from 1599 and then sublet it to his brother Richard Cromwell. Gaynes Hall was in the ownership of the Duberly family between 1797 and 1940.
In 1832, Charles Duberly graduated at Oxford, Christ Church. His first role in the Church was in 1841 as Curate of Twineham, Sussex. He married Frances Potts in 1847 in Gateshead and they had 11 children between 1848 and 1869. He became Rector of Wolsingham in 1856.
Dodds, Percy (1905)
Percy Dodds was born in 1896 and lived with his mother at Low Wiserley, Wolsingham, the home of his great uncle George William Henderson. He had two brothers named Henry, and Frederick.
In his 20’s, Percy lived at 13 Lister Terrace before moving to live with his brother Fred at Old Castle Farm, Ugthorpe, Whitby. He is recorded as ‘Incapacitated’. Percy passed away in Whitby in 1957, aged 61 years.
Douglas, Norman (1893)
Norman is the brother of pupil Arthur Douglas and they lived in Wolsingham Market Place with their father Andrew, an Iron Dresser at the Steelworks, and their mother Mary, an Assistant at the Boot Shop. No further records found for Norman Douglas.
Darlington & Stockton Times, Ripon & Richmond Chronicle - Saturday 01 April 1911:
Elgey, Thomas and Henry (1876)
Brothers Thomas and Henry Elgey were raised in Angate Street, Wolsingham by their parents Henry and Mary alongside siblings Mary, George, and Alice Louisa. Sadly, younger sister Alice Louisa passed away aged just 1 year old.
Following the death of their father, the boys lived with their mother Mary who was now making her living as a charwoman. After he left school, Henry, preferring to be known as ‘Harry’, continued to live with his mother and younger brother George in Back Lane and started employment as a General Labourer. His brother George was recorded as ‘Feebleminded’. (Although the use of the term ‘Feebleminded’ was often quite vague, it was generally used to describe a person with a mental age of around eight to twelve years). No further records are found for Henry (or ‘Harry’) Elgey.
Henry’s elder brother Thomas left home and found employment as a Farm Labourer living in Meadhope Street at the home of Thompson Whitfield, a Farmer of 90 acres, with 1 Labourer and 1 Boy. Unverified research suggests Thomas Elgey passed away in 1942 aged 77 years.
Elliott, Charles (1902)
Charles Elliott was born on April 12th 1894, the son of William and Martha Elliott who lived in East End, Wolsingham. His father was a Wood Wagon Man, and he had five siblings named Thomas, Mary, William, Elizabeth, and John. Following the death of his mother in 1903, his father remarried, and the family moved to Bishop Auckland where Charles found employment as a driver for a Road Contractor. In 1914, he married Maud Brown from South Church and they lived in Mason Terrace. Charles Elliott passed away in 1976 aged 82 years.
Elliott, Henry Aris (1902)
Born in June 1889 in Lambeth, London to blacksmith John Elliott and his wife Louisa, Henry lived in Martin Street, in the borough of St. George the Martyr, London with his four elder brothers named William, Charles, Frank, and George. He also has a younger sister named Annie.
By 1901, Henry’s father had passed away and the family were living in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham where Henry was attending the National School. On leaving school, he found work at the Steelworks as a Labourer.
In July 1916, Henry married Elizabeth Donovan, the marriage taking place in St Olave, Greater London. Henry and Elizabeth had at least five children including Henry, Norah, Dennis, and Joseph.
At the start of World War 2, Henry was working as a Munitions worker. He passed away in 1962 in Bermondsey, London aged 73 years.
Elliott, Robert Urwin (1903)
Robert was born in September 1892 and lived at 19 Attwood Terrace, Wolsingham. His father passed away when Robert was just an infant leaving his widowed mother Annie as head of the household. He married Adelaide Williams from Wolsingham in 1913 and they lived in Post Office Lane where Robert worked as a Foundry Labourer. He had a son named Robert T. Elliott, and a daughter named Phyllis.
Robert’s death was recorded on February 22nd 1968 aged 75 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard alongside his wife, with the headstone also memorialising the death of his son Robert who was lost at sea in January 1944, aged 28 years.
Emerson, John Thomas (1911)
Although ‘Emmerson’ / ‘Emerson’ are surnames in common use in Wolsingham around this time, there were no suitable records found for a ‘T Emmerson’ of a suitable school age. However, records for a ‘John Thomas Emerson’ are found. Subsequent Log Book entries by the Headmaster in the following year suggest these records are for the correct scholar as he refers to a ‘Thomas Emmerson’ applying for a scholarship, then confirms the follwoing week that 'John Thomas Emerson' has been successful in passing the Scholarship Exam.
John Thomas Emerson lived in Waterside, East End, Wolsingham with his parents John, a Steelworks Craneman, and Annie Isabel.
By 1911, John (11), still at school, is living in Market Place, Wolsingham. He had two siblings named Margaret Ruth, and Frederick William.
No further records found for John Thomas Emerson.
Emmerson, Fred (1899)
Fred was born on February 25th 1887. He lived with his widowed grandmother Phebe Emmerson in Upper Town, Wolsingham. On leaving school, he found employment as an Office Boy before landing a job at the Steelworks as a Fitter & Turner.
In 1916, Fred married Margaret Ann Moses, and they had a daughter named Freda the following year. By 1939 they had moved to St. Monica’s Grove, Durham where Fred was working as an Engineering Fitter & Turner at a Steel Castings & Forgings Maker. He passed away on May 11th 1943 aged 56 years.
Featherstone, John (1893)
John Featherstone lived in Upper Town, Wolsingham with his parents George, a Farmer & Cartman, and Elizabeth. John had three siblings named Hannah, George, and Elizabeth. After moving to High Wiserley, John helped his father as a Farmer & Carting Contractor.
No further records were found for John after 1901 but unverified records show a number of John’s family living in Bunnythorpe, Wellington, New Zealand from around 1907.
Fenwick, Fred (1900)
No records found for Fred Fenwick / Featherstone
Firbank, Christopher Thomas (1902)
Christopher Firbank lived with his Grandfather Robert Firbank in Hound Hill, Wolsingham with his mother Margaret and sister Jane. His Grandfather was employed as a Gas Producer. His Grandfather passed away in 1910, an event which resulted in Christopher’s mother having to seek refuge as an inmate in the Stanhope Workhouse. She appears on the workhouse register with two infants named Martha and Elizabeth Firbank, both aged one year. The Workhouse entry states Margaret Firbank has given birth to eleven children, of which six were deceased by 1911.
Unverified records show Christopher passed away in 1974 aged 81 years.
Firbank, Jane Ann (1905)
Jane was the sister of Christopher Firbank and she lived with her mother and brother at her Grandfather’s home in Hound Hill, Wolsingham. By 1911, her mother was an inmate in the Stanhope Workhouse.
Unverified research shows Jane married Harold Clifford Grigg from Newquay, the marriage taking place in Weardale in 1918. The following year Jane’s husband Harold was killed in action during WW1 whilst serving in France with the 23rd Cheshire regiment. When Ann received her late husband’s war pension she was living in Southampton.
No further records found for Jane A. Firbank.
Fleming, Alice Jane (1896)
Alice Fleming was born on May 6th 1876 and lived in High Street, Wolsingham with her parents George, a Shoe Maker employing 1 man, and Maria. She had a brother named Joseph Fowler, and four sisters named Christine, Dora Elizabeth, Margaret, and Mabel.
By the age of 14, Alice was employed as a Shop Assistant, most likely in the family Boot business in the High Street. However, she moved from shop work to follow a career in teaching, a path also followed by her sisters Margaret and Mabel.
Alice never married, and passed away on September 4th 1954 aged 78 years.
Fleming, Jane (1867)
Born in Scotland in 1857, Jane initially lived in Front Street, Tow Law with her Irish-born parents William and Ann. Her father was employed as a coal miner whilst her brother Robert, at just 10-years-old, was a driver in a coal mine. (A driver was a boy employed in driving the horses on the main road underground. These boys were usually 14 or 15 years of age).
Jane’s family moved to West Cottage, Thornley Road, Wolsingham. Unverified records suggest Jane married Iron Worker James Lamb and they raised a family in Stockton-on-Tees before passing away in 1944 aged 85 years.
Fleming, Mabel (1903)
Mabel was the sister of Wolsingham National School Assistant Teacher Alice Fleming. Born in Tow Law, Mabel spent her childhood living in High Street, Wolsingham with her parents George, a boot dealer, and Maria. She had three other sisters named Christine, Dora Elizabeth and Margaret, as well as a brother named Joseph Fowler.
After completing her education, Mabel qualified as an Elementary School Teacher. No further records are found for Mabel Fleming
Forster (Metcalfe), Edith (1904)
Edith was born Edith Forster in Stanhope to Mary Elizabeth Forster. Her mother married Thomas J. Metcalfe, a Labourer at the Steelworks, and they lived in High Street, Wolsingham with Edith’s step-sisters Marjorie, Gladys May, Sarah Jane, and Margaret Lillian.
No further records found for Edith.
Forster, Isabella (1894)
Isabella Forster lived at Bradley Cottage, Black Banks, Wolsingham with her parents Henry, a Woodman and Gamekeeper, and Isabella. She had nine siblings named Jane, Susannah, William, Annie, Henry, Richard, George Bell, Jeremiah Carr, and Thomas.
At aged 28 Isabella was the only child living at Bradley Cottage, assisting her parents with dairy work.
No further records found for Isabella Forster.
Forster, Thomas (1902)
Thomas lived at Bradley Cottage, Black Banks, Wolsingham with parents Henry, a Woodman and Gamekeeper, and Isabella. He had nine other siblings named Isabella, Jane, Susannah, William, Annie, Henry, Richard, George Bell, and Jeremiah Carr.
Unverified genealogical research shows Thomas Forster emigrated to Saskatchewan, Canada where he married Ellen Wappett. They had a son named Roy in 1929. Thomas passed away on January 13th 1947 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Canada, aged years 56. He is buried in Lancer Cemetery, Swift Current.
Foster, Thomas (1905)
Thomas was born at Harperley and lived at Witton-le-Wear as a young child with his parents William, a Coal Miner and Farmer, and Emma. He had two brothers named Arthur, and Walter, and four sisters named Mary, Norah. Emma Jane, and Annie.
The family moved to Field House Farm, Satley and Thomas found employment in the coal mines as a Putter. Unverified records show Thomas married Hannah Maud Heslop in Bishop Auckland in 1913. They had two children named Hannah and Walter.
No further records found for Thomas Foster
Freeman, Ms (1908)
No info found
French, Agnes Mary and Lily May (1903)
Agnes and Lily French lived in Hound Hill, Wolsingham with their parents Edward, an Engine Fitter & Turner, and Elizabeth. The girls had four sisters named Elizabeth, Alice, Margaret and Cissy, and three brothers named Edward, Thomas, and John.
Agnes Mary worked in service as a Domestic Servant at the home of Cotton Salesman Fred Horsfall and his wife Maggie in Clara Road, Bradford, before she moved back to County Durham to work as a Hotel Waitress at The Finchale Abbey Hotel in Durham. She passed away in 1967 at the Memorial Hospital, Darlington aged 72 years.
Agnes’ younger sister Lily May moved with the rest of the family to East Avenue, Coundon, where their father found work as a Coke Man. She married Henry Langford in 1922 and lived in Shildon Main Street, raising a son and a daughter. Her son Harry died as a result of accidental drowning whilst serving in the Navy in 1944. Unverified records show Lily May passed away in June 1981 aged 85 years.
Fyfe, Isabella (1902)
No records are found for an Isabella Fyfe living in the Wolsingham area at the time although a death record registered in 1912 shows an Isabella Fyfe, passing away in Bishop Auckland, aged 17 years.
Gage, William Henry St Quintin (1891)
William Henry St Quintin Gage was born in Corfu in 1858 and lived in the High Street, Wolsingham. The son of Lt.-Gen. Hon. Edward Thomas Gage and Arabella Elizabeth Gage, William was educated at Exeter College, Oxford University, England. Unmarried, he died on December 31st 1939 aged 81 years.
William Henry St Quentin Gage. vincentsgraham originally shared this on Ancestry.co.uk on 23 Jan 2017
Gamedge, Rev. Mr. (1879)
No records found for Rev. Gamedge (Rev Henry Gammidge – Northamptonshire – then Bishopwearmouth?)
Gardiner, Eliza Jane (Jennie) (1905)
Jennie was baptised ‘Eliza Jane Gardiner’ but preferred to be known as ‘Jennie’. She lived in East End, Wolsingham with her mother Martha, widowed following the death of her father John within a year of Jennie being born. She had four siblings named Mary Elizabeth, Ethel, George, Edith, and Laura.
Jennie lived for a time with her married sister Mary Elizabeth and brother-in-law Albert King, a Partner in a Wholesale and Retail Grocery business at Yarm Cottage in Northallerton. In 1923 she married Wolsingham-born Marshall Coulson and they set up home in Grasmere Road, Darlington where they raised a daughter named Mary.
Jennie passed away in Cumbria in 1987 aged 92 years, and is commemorated alongside her husband in the Book of Remembrance at Durham Crematorium.
Gibson, John (1893)
John Gibson was born in Stanhope and lived with his mother Mary Ann and step-father James Ward in East Lane, Wolsingham. He had a sister named Hannah, and four step brothers named John, George, Joseph, and Robert. Whilst working as a Steel Foundry Labourer he boarded at the home of Martha Gardiner in Wolsingham’s East End.
No further records found for John Gibson.
Gibson, Joseph (1872)
Joseph was the youngest of four children born to Thomas and Catherine Gibson of Meeting House Lane, Wolsingham. Joseph had two older sisters named Margaret and Phoebe, and an older brother named John.
Joseph’s father, Thomas Harrison Gibson passed away in 1864, and by the time the 1871 census was taken, his mother Catherine was remarried. The family lived in Meeting House Lane, Wolsingham with their new step-father John McGuire, a Brewery Labourer.
Joseph found employment as a General Labourer at the Steel Works. His step-father John Maguire passed away in 1882. No further records are found for Joseph Gibson.
Gibson, William (1903)
William lived at Friarside, Wolsingham with his parents William, a Railway Platelayer and Farmer, and Jane Ann. He had seven siblings including Joseph, Mary, Jane, Beatrice, Linus and Violet Matilda. On leaving school, he set to work on the family farm.
No further records found for William Gibson
Giles, Dr. (1909)
No records found for a Dr Giles
Glover, Miss (1908)
No info found
Gordon, Charles (1902)
Janet Gordon’s brother Charles was also excluded from school due to measles. He was born on June 14th 1893 and secured an Engineering Apprenticeship at the Steelworks after leaving school.
Unverified research suggests Charles married Mary Blanche Steadman from Morpeth, Northumberland in 1926, and Mary gave birth to a son named John in the same year. The same research shows Charles Gordon passed away on April 28th 1972 aged 79 years.
Gowling, Albert Edward and John David (1909)
Originally from Warcop in Westmorland, the Gowling family had moved to Wolsingham by 1911, setting up home at 1 Durham Road. Mary and William Gowling had two sons of school age named Albert Edward, and John David, as well as two younger sons named Robert William, and Thomas Arthur. Whilst in the process of moving his family to Wolsingham, their father found employment at Wolsingham Steelworks and boarded at the home of former Wolsingham National School pupil Mary Martha Keenleyside at 15 Attwood Terrace.
Whilst living in Warcop, Albert Gowling lived at the home of his maternal grandparents Mary and Heslop Slee. He married Mary Elizabeth Watson in Teesdale in 1928, and lived at 6 Ward Terrace, Wolsingham where he was employed as a Timber Yard Joiner. He passed away in 1975 aged 74 years.
Albert’s younger brother John David married Kate Sarah Waggott from Whittonstall, Northumberland in 1935 and they lived just a few doors away from his brother at 1 Ward Terrace, Wolsingham. John was also employed in the Timber trade, working as a Timber Loader. He passed away on November 8th 1977 aged 75 years.
Durham Crematorium Book of Remembrance for November 8th 1977. www.remembrance-books.com/durham/
Gray, Rev. Andrew E. P.
Author of 'THE DOMESDAY RECORD OF THE LAND BETWEEN RIBBLE AND MERSEY.' by Andrew E. P. Gray, M.A., F.S.A., Rector of Wallasey. (Read 1st December, 1887) No further records forund for Rev. Andrew E. P. Gray
Grimshaw, William Edwin (1910)
School Inspector William Grimshaw was born in Mayfield, Staffordshire, and lived in Clifton, Derbyshire with his father John Samuel, a Manager of a Taper Works, mother Anne, and six siblings.
In 1909, William married Elizabeth Cocker from Oldham, the marriage taking place in Bucklow, Cheshire. They moved to Darlington where William took up the role of Inspector of Schools for the Board of Education. They had one child named James William Travers. He passed away on January 10th 1939 aged 59 years.
William’s son James William Travers Grimshaw was an English cricketer who played first-class cricket between 1932 and 1936. He attended King William's College on the Isle of Man before going on to Cambridge University. He served in the Royal Artillery as a Warrant Officer during World War II and was killed in action in September 1944.
Grundon, Jane Ann (1905)
Jane lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her father Robert Chapman, a self-employed Master Tailor, and mother Jane. Following the death of her father in 1896, they remained in Angate Street where her mother earned an income through renting out apartments. Jane passed away on March 26th 1976 aged 86 years.
Halliday, John (William) (1892)
John William lived in the High Street, Wolsingham in two adjacent properties occupied by the extended Halliday family. His father William, a Lead Miner, and mother Isabella had three other children named Nancy, Isabella, and Susan. On leaving school, John secured employment as a Mason’s Labourer.
Unverified records suggest John William Halliday passed away in 1964 aged 84 in the South West Durham area.
Hamble, Jack (1895)
No records found for Jack Hamble
Hamilton, Ann (1863)
Another girl leaving her schooling on July 2nd 1863 was Ann Hamilton. Ann provides us with another link to the Bay Horse Inn, having spent her childhood there with her father victualler and maltster Joseph Hamilton.
In 1874, Ann Hamilton married farmer Thomas Walton and in 1875 they had a son named Thomas, followed two years later by a second son named Joseph. A daughter named Jane followed in 1880. Ann and Thomas moved to Allergill, Stanhope where they were farming 145 acres and employing three Labourers. A fourth child, named Grace was born in 1887. Tragically, their eldest son Thomas died on May 26th 1894 aged just 19 years.
Anne passed away in 1915 aged 63 years and she is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside her husband and son.
Hamilton, Cornelius (1903)
Cornelius was born in September 1889, he lived in Market Place, Wolsingham with his father Cornelius, a Butcher, and his mother Elizabeth. He had four other siblings named John, Mary, Frances, and George.
UPDATE submitted by Andrew Marshall 07/03/24: Their father Cornelius Hamilton snr passed away in 1927:
Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette - Wednesday 07 September 1927. DEATH ON TOP OF A HAYSTACK.
Mr Cornelius Hamilton (68), a retired Wolsingham butcher, has been found dead on top of a stack of hay, which he had gone on top. Death is stated to be due to apoplexy.
Cornelius became a Master Butcher and boarded at the home of William and Emma Birkbeck in Howlish Terrace, Coundon. He married Georgiana Eliza Manson from Hovingham, Yorkshire in 1927 and they lived in Rectory Lane, Wolsingham. A daughter named Gertrude was born in October 1929, followed by a son named Kenneth Manson in March 1931. As well as being a Master Butcher, Cornelius served as a Special Constable. He passed away in March 1857 aged 67 years and is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard alongside his wife.
Hamilton, John (1902)
John Hamilton was the nephew of former pupil Ann Hamilton and he lived in Wolsingham Market Place with his father Cornelius, a Butcher, and mother Elizabeth, and siblings named Cornelius, Mary, Frances, and George.
Unverified genealogical research suggests John Hamilton passed away in 1949 aged 56 years.
Harrison, Esther (1910)
No records found for Esther Harrison
Harrison, Miss (1908)
No info found for a Miss Harrison
Hart, James Farmer (1872)
James was the younger brother of pupil Mary Jane Hart. They lived at Walk Hill Green, Wolsingham, where their father was a Railway Plate Layer.
The family moved to Temperance Terrace, Crook and James found employment initially as a Labourer, before becoming a Stationary Engineman. In 1888, he married Jane Coates from Billy Row and they set up home at Jobson Terrace, Stanley Crook. They had four children named Robert, Lucy, John and James Edward. The family moved to Bridge Street, Howden-le-Wear where unverified records suggest he passed away in 1939 aged 74 years.
Hart, Mary Jane (1863)
Mary Jane was born in 1850, shortly before her mother Barbara Franklin married Plate Layer Robert Hart. Mary was recorded as Robert’s daughter-in-law living at Frog Hall, Wolsingham. (Although not the correct legal term, it wasn’t uncommon for people to record children acquired through marriage as ‘in-laws’).
Mary was living at Walk Hill Green, Wolsingham when, at 28-years-old she married Thomas Egglestone in Durham; the marriage taking place on October 31st 1880. Mary and Thomas set up home at Cross Hill, Stanhope where Thomas was making his living as a Stone Mason. A daughter named Mary was born in 1881 followed by a son named Joseph Thomas in July 1888. The family would remain at Cross Hill, Stanhope until Mary’s death in 1912 aged 61 years.
Hawkins, Henry (1893)
Henry Hawkins lived at Red House Farm, Roddymoor, Crook where his father Alfred was employed as a Farm Labourer. His parents had five other children named James, Charles, Sarah, John, and Bertram.
The family moved to West End, Wolsingham where Henry’s father found employment as a Labourer at the stone quarry. On leaving school, Henry joined his father at the stone quarry, working as a carter. On January 16th 1907, He married Emily Wayper from Wolsingham and they raised a son named John Henry at their home in Angate Street.
Henry Hawkins passed away on February 27th 1960 aged 76 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard, Wolsingham alongside his wife Emily.
Hedley, Elizabeth Hannah (1904)
Elizabeth was born in June 1893. In 1914, she married George William Hastwell from Shildon and she gave birth to a daughter named Elizabeth in 1915. Sadly, her daughter passed away before her first birthday. She had two further daughters named Florrie, and Doris. In 1920, the family emigrated to America travelling from Southampton to New York to set up a new home in Buffalo, West Virginia. Elizabeth passed away in November 1935 aged 42 years at Windsor Heights, Brooke County, West Virginia. She is buried at the Kadesh Chapel Cemetery, Brooke County.
Hedley, John (1884)
John Hedley also received a medical exemption due to ‘Dullness and Ill Health’. John lived in Walk Mill Green, Wolsingham with parents William, a Railway Warehouseman, and Hannah. He had five siblings.
Following his father’s death, John lived with his mother and brothers in the Causeway where he found employment as a Woollen Factory Labourer. However, he eventually trained as a Stonemason and moved to Dans Castle, Tow Law. It was here where he passed away in 1948 aged 71 years.
Hedley, Thomas Edward (1904)
Thomas became a Coal Miner Driver when he left school. Unverified research suggests Thomas married Annie Graham in 1917. He passed away in 1934 aged 38 years.
Hedley, William George (1902)
William was born on January 9th 1893 in Wolsingham. Once the family moved to Shildon, William, his father, and two oldest brothers were all employed in various roles in the coal mines. When the 1939 England and Wales Register was taken, William (now known as George) was employed as a Colliery Driller Below Ground, and living at 1 Primitive Street, Shildon, the home of his sister Frances and her husband John Johnson.
Unverified records show George W Hedley passed away in June 1958 aged 65 years
Henderson, Elizabeth (1902)
Elizabeth was the sister of Pupil Teacher Mary Henderson, and lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her parents Thomas, a Steel Turner, and Elizabeth. After leaving Wolsingham National School, Elizabeth became a qualified teacher and moved to Clitheroe in Lancashire, employed by the Borough of Clitheroe Education Committee.
No further records found for Elizabeth Henderson
Henderson, Mary (1893)
Mary Henderson lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with her parents Thomas, a Steel Turner, and Elizabeth. She had three younger siblings named Elizabeth, Sarah A, and Thomas. Her sister Elizabeth was a Pupil Teacher at Wolsingham National School.
No further records found for Mary Henderson
Herdman, Ann (1863)
Ann Herdman was born to Jane Ormston; a domestic servant living at the home of coal miner Henry Herdman, at Blackfield Cottages, Tow Law. In 1857, Ann’s mother married her employer and they moved to Furnace Bank, Wolsingham.
In 1869, Ann Herdman married cokeyard labourer John Hindmarch and they set up home in Witton-le-Wear Village before moving to Escomb where they were recorded as having an adopted child named Jane. At 60 years old, Ann had moved to Cockton Hill where her husband was employed as a Loco Fitter’s Assistant. The 1911 census return shows Ann and John had a total of six children, with four still living, and two having passed away.
Ann Hindmarch (nee Herdman/Ormston) passed away on October 10th 1923 aged 72 years. She is buried in St. John’s churchyard, Escomb.
Herron, Flossie (Floss) (1905)
Flossie Herron was the niece of former National School Teacher Susan Deborah Herron. She was born in 1895 and lived in Upper Town, Wolsingham with her father George Robert Colling Herron, a Mechanic, and her mother Margaret. She had a brother and a sister named Robert and Lilian.
Flossie lived with her sister Lilian and brother-in-law Joseph Carlton in Carmel Road South, Darlington where she was employed as a State Registered Nurse. When Lilian and Joseph moved to Eastbourne, Flossie moved with them and it was here in 1977 that she passed away aged 81 years.
Herron, Jane (1892)
Jane and her sister Susan Deborah, lived with their parents George and Jane Herron in East End, Wolsingham.
In 1901 Jane was living in Wolsingham employed as a School Teacher and in the same year she married William Marshall, a Grocer and Draper from Ferryhill, Durham and raised two daughters named Doris and Edna.
No further records found for Jane Marshall (nee Herron).
Herron, Lilian (1910)
Lilian was the niece of former National School Teacher Susan Deborah Herron, and the sister of former pupils Robert and Flossie Herron. Lilian was born on March 12th 1894 and lived in Upper Town, Wolsingham, then the Causeway, with her father George Robert Colling Herron, a Mechanic, and her mother Margaret. Has well as Robert and Flossie, Lilian had two other siblings named George and Norah.
In 1923, Lilian married Joseph William Carlton in Weardale and they lived in Carmel Road South, Darlington before eventually moving to Eastbourne. Lilian passed away on April 13th 1980 aged 83 years.
Herron, Robert (1907)
Robert was the nephew of former National School Teacher Susan Deborah Herron, and the brother of former pupil Flossie Herron. He lived in Wolsingham Upper Town, then in the Causeway with his father George Robert Colling Herron, a Mechanic, and mother Margaret. Robert had two other sisters named Lillian and Norah, and a brother named George. After leaving school, Robert worked with his father as a Mechanic in the Engineering Trade. Unverified research suggests he passed away in 1953 aged 60 years.
Hope, William Evans (1864)
William Hope lived in East End, Wolsingham, where his father John was a Mason Master, and his mother Elizabeth, a Dress Maker. He had three younger sisters named Emina, Mary and Hannah. The family moved to Crook, and William found employment as a Bricklayer. He married Elizabeth and they had five children named Frances Jane, Florence Maud, Ernest, Annie and John Thomas.
William Evans Hope’s death was recorded in 1906 aged 56 years.
Hornsby, John Wilfred (1906)
John lived in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham with his parents William, a Moulder’s Labourer, and Mary. He had a brother and a sister named George and Lizzie.
Unverified records suggest John married Edith Hardy from Almondbury, Yorkshire, the marriage registered in Darlington in 1919. They lived in Millsgate, Richmond raising a daughter named Alice. His death was recorded in 1974 aged 80 years.
Horsley, Albert Norman (1910)
Albert Norman was born on March 11th 1898 and lived in Upper Town, Wolsingham with his parents Walter, a Mason’s Labourer, and Agnes. He had two sisters named Harriet and Emily, and a brother named John. After leaving school, Albert found work at the Steelworks as a Steel Moulder.
No further records found
Howe, John Thomas (1911)
John Howe was born on February 21st 1901 at Satley to John Eddy Howe, a Mason, and his wife Lydia Ellen. The family lived at the Travellers Rest, Satley before moving to Laurel Cottage, Wolsingham where his father was employed as a Quarry Foreman. By 1911, John, his mother Lydia, and his sister Irene were all recorded as visitors at the home of Thomas and Violetta Lumsden at Middridge Village, New Shildon. After leaving school, John found employment as a Gardener, with the 1939 Register describing him as ‘Carrying out Light Work Through Illness’.
John Thomas Howe passed away in 1965 aged 64 years.
Hudson, Frances (1902)
No records found for Frances Hudson
Humble, Arthur Walter (1907)
Arthur was born in October 1897 to Spade Maker & Licenced Victualler Thomas Dodd Humble and his wife Emily. He lived in Angate Street, Wolsingham with his five siblings named Florence, John, Thomas, Charles, Emily, and Edith. The family eventually moved to Hope Street, Crook where their father Thomas managed a Public House.
Arthur Humble enlisted into the R.A.F. in June 1918 shortly before the end of the Great War, by which time his family had returned to Wolsingham, and were living in the Market Place. Following his service with the R.A.F., Arthur married Hilda Alice Collins from Great Ilford, Essex. The marriage took place in Romford, Essex in 1926 and they lived in Edmonton, Middlesex where Arthur worked as an Engineering Draughtsman.
Unverified genealogical research shows Arthur and Hilda had two sons named Jeffrey Thomas, and Colin Deon.
Arthur’s death was recorded in Southend, Essex in March 1982. He was aged 84 years. He is buried in St Mary's and St Stephen's Churchyard alongside his parents.
Hunter, Joshua (1880)
Born in Shildon, Joshua Hunter lived with his Step-Father John Sampson, a Platelayer, his mother Elizabeth, and his three siblings in Frosterley Village. After leaving school, he secured a role with the Inland Revenue, and boarded at the home of James and Eliza Reece in West Bromwich. He married Elizabeth Ann Longbottom from Barnard Castle in 1893, and, still employed by the Inland Revenue, moved to Dumfries, Scotland where his wife Elizabeth gave birth to three children named Phyllis Marion, Kathleen Elizabeth Shelton and Leslie Roberts St John. Joshua’s role eventually saw him return to England moving to Holly Avenue, Newcastle-on-Tyne. His death was recorded in Sunderland in September 1953 aged 88 years.
Hunter, Mr.
No records are found for a School Inspector named Hunter.
Hutchinson, Hannah (1896)
Hannah was born in Tow Law and as a child lived in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham. Once she had qualified as a School Teacher, she moved to Barnard Castle where she boarded at the home of Joseph Kidd, a General Cartman in King Street. In 1903, she married carpenter George William Lawson of Wolsingham, and they set up home at Redgate Lodge, raising a son named George and a daughter named Gladys.
Hannah Lawson (nee Hutchinson) passed away in 1970 aged 89 years.
The following Correction was submitted by Penny Maxfield 02/02/2024: Hannah Hutchinson died 8 March 1972 in Nuneaton aged 91.
The following Photographs and Additional Information was kindly submitted by Penny Maxfirld 12/02/2024:
Coventry Standard - 28 December 1963
Family Party for 60th Wedding Anniversary
Hannah Lawson (nee Hutchinson) with children Gladys and George, taken circa 1908/9
Hutchinson, John (1866)
The Hutchinson mentioned by the Headmaster as leaving to ‘commence work on the farm’ is likely to be John Hutchinson, of Snipe Gate; a near neighbour to the Sanderson family at Bradley Hall. John was one of seven children of John and Frances Hutchinson, farming 7 acres at Snipe Gate.
No further records were found for John Hutchinson.
Hutchinson, Mary (1891)
Mary lived in Upper Town Wolsingham with her mother Hannah, and father Thomas, a Labourer at the Steelworks. Mary had a brother named George and three sisters named Margaret, Sarah J and Hannah. Mary’s Grandmother Mary Pattison, a Retired Farm Widow is also recorded with the family.
Mary’s mother Hannah passed away in 1887 when Mary was 12 years old and the 1891 census shows 17-year-old Mary as a Pupil Teacher living with her father and siblings in Meadhope Street, Wolsingham. Her father Thomas is now employed as a Railway Platelayer. Mary’s Second Cousin: William Baxter, an Agricultural Labourer is also in the household.
No records are found for Mary Hutchinson in the 1901 census, but marriage records show a Mary Hutchinson married William Steele Golightly in 1903.
The 1911 shows Mary (37) living at 59 Newton, Dalton-in-Furness, Lancashire, where her husband William is employed as an Engineer’s Fitter (Examiner) in Shipbuilding. Mary is employed as a Domestic. The record shows Mary has given birth to four children, only one of which is still living at the time of the census: Isaa