Guestbook

Hi

I am researching my husband's family. His GG Grandfather was a James Law/s Howard Herd b. 1921 in Groombridge. He used various aliases including James Howard, George Howard, George Howard Herd. He was a comedian/actor.
His father was James Law Herd b. about 1799 I think, and he was a Tanner. He may have had a brother, George Herd b.1820 Groombridge, also a tanner.
Does anyone have any info on Herds (or Law/s and Howards for that matter..) in Grombridge? Thanks!

Can anyone tell me where I might find the Electoral Rolls for Tonbridge for 1950-60 please?

Joe
Suggest you try submittng a query on the website Weald of Kent Sussex and Surrey. Also there are many Packhams listed if you click on Genealogy on right hand side. An excellent site.

Ron
See Brian's website suggestion in March. Alternatively there are 3 entries in the local phone book (No. 531 available in the larger Reference Libraries)None in Tunbridge Wells, but one each in Sevenoaks, Farnborough and Biggin Hill

Hi

I was looking at the Poor Rate returns for Tonbridge at CKS recently and found my 3 x great grandfather Charles Winch living at Tower Mill in the Southborough West area from 1831-34. Using a book about Watermills and Windmills I found in the library there, I was trying to find the whereabouts of the mill and the best fit I could find was Bidborough. Would anyone know if Bidborough was in the Tonbridge Poor Rate area for this period (I gather it was possibly at a later date though) or would anyone know the boundaries of the Southborough West area for the purposes of the Poor Rate at that time?

Hello Amanda. The St Johns records are now on CD but unfortunately the two people who have them are both indisposed. I will ask them to contact you as soon as they are able.

I am looking for any one who lives in the Tunbridge Wells area who can photo copy some newspaper reports from the T/Wells library and post them to me it concerns my great uncles who fought in the great war.As I live in Yorkshire it is a long way to travel. I have the name of the paper and the dates.I would of course pay any costs.Hope some one can help.
Barry Woodhams

Hi does any one know anything of the McClelland family, who, according to the 1901 census lived at 19 Mountfeild Gardens. It would be really nice to trace some of their decendants as I have an oil pianting of one of the children who lived there at that time.

Hiya,
Was just wondering how the work on the St Johns parish records was going?
I seem to remember that the work was ongoing at one of last years meetings.
Wishing you all well,
Amanda

Can anyone tell me the origin of Packhams Hill Rotherfield, As my wife's maiden name is Packham and her greatparents come from Rotherfield, Henry Packham, Any info would be appreciated. Joe Stephens

11th. November 1918.

This year is the 90th.Anniversary of the end of the First World War. I am researching the names of those people from Speldhurst who served in either of the World Wars 1914-1918 and 1939-1945. The parish of St. Mary’s, Speldhurst had around 323 people who were in the First World War, and in the Second World War those from the parish which included St. Margaret’s Lower Green, totalled 354.

Most of these names were published in the Village Magazine. I would like to borrow any photographs of relatives, preferably in uniform, and/or stories or information of anyone who was involved. If you would like to offer some information or photographs to add to the collection, I would suggest that it would be easiest to send them to me by e-mail.

I believe it is very important that we record all this kind of information now, as it is getting more difficult year by year to find any relevant material. I am hoping to produce a CD of this research, which will be our third CD about this lovely West Kent village.

Don Jeffrey.

Janis Maynard-Re Fremlins Brewery Tunbridge Wells.According to The Old Pubs of Tunbridge Wells & District(Meresborough Books)Fremlins Brothers the Maidstone Brewers had a bottling depot,store and office in Monson Road from the 1890s tp the 1960s

Many thanks, I will write to the address mentioned to see if they have any records. I know who my birth mother is but I am trying to trace my father.
Kind regards Ronnie.

There is reference to a Maternity Home in the Broadwater Down area of Tunbridge Wells in a couple of comments dated 23 November 2006 (near the beginning of this Guestbook). I hope these might help you.

Hello I am wondering if any one has any information on a place called Broadwater Down. I was born there in 1947. I would be interested in finding any records pertaining to this.
Regards Ronnie.

I'm looking for three generations of my family who lived in and around Tunbridge Wells. Thomas Ashby and his wife Sarah were living in Frant in 1770's and 1780's. Their children were entered in the Frant pr's. There is no sign of a marriage, however, and I don't know Sarah's maiden name, or who either of their parents were. One of their children, James (b. 1785), appears in the 1841 and 1851 censuses living in Canterbury. He had 4 sons, all of whom were recorded in the census as being born in Tonbridge/Tunbridge Wells (Charles, 1827, Henry, 1834 (my gt gt grandfather), Thomas 1835 and John 1838). I haven't found any birth or baptism information for them. I believe that I have found James' marriage in Pallot's index (St Leonard's Shoreditch, 1828). Any information at all would be appreciated.

There are a couple of Thomas & Sarah Ashby marriages I am aware of who don't appear to be my Thomas & Sarah - Thomas Ashby & Sarah Sayers (Lamberhurst) and Thomas Ashby & Sarah Dench (Mayfield).

Message for Beverley

Go to www.192.com and search the 'people' directories for Bennett in Ticehurst. You will find one current telephone number and address for Bennett, for which the information is given free of charge. Bear in mind that a number of people are ex-directory and not listed. Other Bennetts are listed on the electoral roll, but the website charges for such information.
You can search for anyone in the United Kingdom on this site.

Brian

Is it possible to trace details on my Father's emigration to Australia in 1926/27 under the Big Brother scheme, founded by Sir Richard Linton?
He was William James Stephens.

Hello Tracy Morgan

Sandhill,Pembury in 1944 = Pembury Hospital

The name Sandhill was derived from the Old Workhouse

hi could anyone tell me what sandhill pembury rd as a place of birth would mean what was sandhill in 1944.
thanks

I am looking for anyone who could help me find out any information on my ancestors. Twort is my grand mothers name, Ellen Susannah was my great grandmother married to Jacob Twort which was his 2nd marraige they came from Bidborough just outside Tonbridge Kent. Jacob was a boot maker I'd love to hear anything about any of Jacob's 10 siblings or Jacob's 10 children.

Hello, I would like some information on the Faibrothers who lived in Tunbridge Wells in the 1800 hundreds. Thanks

Hello Betty
I was in the local library today and there were no obits in the local press for Oliver Jamieson in the three weeks following his death.
Colin

I am looking for information on my Great Uncle Oliver Jamieson. I was wondering if anyone was searching this family. He died in Tunbridge Wells 10/10/1935.
Would you know if there is any online way I can check obits from that date.
Thank you for your time.
Betty
Canada

I wonder whether you may have any information concerning a Thomas HAVELOCK, son of Thomas HAVELOCK and Sophia Louise MARTYN, who is thought to have married Sarah [UNKNOWN] in Tunbridge Wells circa 1821. Thomas HAVELOCK's date of birth is 31 July 1799, baptised 01 January 1801, at Tetbury, Glos, died 1850. Sarah is believed to have been born in Tandridge, Surrey circa 1805and died 1889 East Grinstead RD Sussex, aged 89. Sarah may have been one of the following individuals:
Sarah Bran 1800
Sarah Jones 1801 or
Sarah Grumbridge (?Groombridge?), born and christened 23rd September 1804 on the IGI, the daughter of George and Mary.
I believe that they may have been married in Kent, possibly in the Tunbridge Wells area.
There has been some speculation that Sarah may have been expecting a child at the time of her wedding, since she reportedly gave birth to a son Robert in 1816, in Worth, Sussex and that the marriage may only have taken place shortly before that event. Their wedding was not at Worth or Tandridge.
Can you help me in any way, please?
Katherine Byrnell
Rockwood, Ontario, Canada

I came across your interesting site and wondered if there is anyone in Ticehurst who may have a little information that could help me. I had family who lived in Ticehurst and some have now moved away. The surname is Bennett. We would especially like to make contact with Charlie who would be approx in his seventies now and has possibly moved to Ireland some time ago. Thanks for taking the time to read this.

Janis Maynard

Are you sure that the Fremlins brewery you refer to was situated in Tunbridge Wells? There was a Kelsey brewery in Tunbridge Wells but I have not heard of a Fremlins brewery in the town nor of a Moon Street. There was a Fremlins brewery in Maidstone (see http://www.francisfrith.com/search/england/kent/maidstone/photos/maidstone_M9704.htm). Maidstone is covered by the Kent Family History Society (http://www.kfhs.org.uk/index.htm).

Hi; My name is Randy Jackson & I live in Edmonton Alberta Canada. I have done some family research on my 5th great grandfather of the Chantler / Chandler family name in the Ticehurst area.

John Chantler married Constant Caylay April 6 1755 & went on to have;
Hannah christened & recorded in Burwash Oct 28 1759,
Thomas christened & recorded in Burwash Oct 04 1759,
Lucy christened & recorded in Groombridge Mar 09 1769,
Ann christened & recorded in Groombridge Mar 24 1771,
Ruth christened & recorded in Groombridge Oct 31 1773,
& James my 4th great grandfather christened & recorded in Groombridge Feb 22 1778.
James went on to marry Elizabeth Websdale from Tandridge in April 21 1799. The marriage took place in Caterham. James & Elizabeth had;

Constant, daughter of James Chandler and Elizabeth his Wife (late Elizabeth Websdale Spinster) was privately baptized April 19 .

James also had other children ( Ann & Mary ) in Caterham. I have also investigated the centre in Maidstone to where he moved his family & whereupon he received a removal notice from the parish of Speldhurst & the Overseers of the Poor, to go back to his place of legal settlement, being the parish of Lympsfield Surrey. He did not go back, as there is birth records of more childern born in Speldhurst & Groombridge, a son James, Jonathan, Ruth, William ( my great, great, great grandfather ) & Daird. I do have a copy of the removal order, but obviuosly he did not have to relocate. Is it possible that the Settlement Examination papers exists at Speldhurst? Would parish records of the children born in the parish of Speldurst exist? There seems to be a significant connection at Groombridge / Speldhurst parish.

With that said, it does seems strange that I also found James's burial in Limpsfield - he's shown as age 77, and was buried on June 26 1854.

Now going back to the Ticehurst, Wadhurst parish areas, I would like to find more about John & his children. I would also find where & when John Chantler was born. I did visit your wonderful region in Sept 2007 & do plan to go back in the near future. While was there I managed to visit the archives at Lewes, which led me to their wedding of April 6th 1755. However I did not see any parish records of their children. Can you direct me to where these records or any other info may exist?

Looking forward to your reply,

Cheers Randy Jackson

Hi Randy
I don't know that this will be of any help to you whatsoever - but by pure coincidence in researching my elusive Smiths I had some info re- Chantlers [ who my Smiths may or may not have married into]. They don't exactly match any of those you list but they were in Ticehurst/ Speldhurst. My info is as follows:-

Edward Chantler married Elizabeth
Thomas Chantler b. 1698 Ticehurst, married Elizabeth Usherwood in Ticehurst 1724
Lucy Chantler b.1734 Ticehurst married William Avery b.1733 Ticehurst in 1765
d.1814 Speldhurst

My info came from a lady descended from them , living in Australia, who'd submitted it to the Family Search site. I've been in touch with her by snail mail . I don't know if she'd have the info you're looking for.
Eileen

looking for any info on margaret watkins born in tunbridge wells 1878,she married frederick wickens,whose parents were douglas and emily. douglas was a tailors contractor while frederick was a house painter. douglas father was samuel,he too was a tailor,, i think they lived at albion road at one time. many thanks jayne watkins

Has anyone access to Parish Records that they could look up for me please? I found a ref to James Smith [ who I hope is my Gt Gt Grandfather] b 1814 Tunbridge Wells on the Family Search site. I need to find who he married and when and if he had a son John b 1839. I've been stuck for ages and if nobody can look for me, has anyone any suggestions how I would find out as I'm not able to visit in person .....
I would also like to thank a lady called Shirley, who's suggestions I followed some time ago, regarding finding my Gt Grandmother's burial. I found the said lady and am very grateful for your help Shirley.
I wish everyone a successful and happy 'Family History' 2008 !

I am trying to find information about the Fremlin Brewery which I believe existed in Moon Street. My great-grandfather Luther Waters was a dray driver for the firm in the early part of the 1900s. I have a photo of him with his draycart which might be of interest to anyone collecting information on the firm's history

any info on caroline watkins born tunbridge wells 1878.on the 1901 census she was a live in servant for the bonham carters at 172 upper grosvenor road tunbridge wells. also eliza watkins born tunbridge wells 1883,shown as domestic servant to the west family, 10 meadow hill rd tunbridge wells on 1901 census.
all help much appreciated as i can find no trace of the watkins family who lived in tunbridge wells in the late 1800s.thank you jayne watkins

I understand there was a workhouse at Brenchley. If so, could anyone advise me if any records of the inhabitants survive and where they are held?

Hello
I am looking for information on a NICHOLLS family who moved to Pembury area after 1901.
Jesse Nicholls b 1860 Canterbury. farm Labourer.
Jane Nicholls b 1867 Wye. wife.
Edith Emily Nicholls b 1886 m Thomas Hook of Brenchley 1906
Herbert A Nicholls b 1889 Dover
Clara Jane Nicholls b 1891 Lydden,Dover
Bertie James Nicholls b 1893 Dover died 1915 WW1 Royal Sussex Rgt

Any information on what happened to them would be gratefully received
Keith Nicholls

Shirley, many thanks for the info.I have put an order in for the microfiches and a book about Chiddingstone.

Adding to Colin's comment - I do think you might be interested in purchasing the booklet " A history of Groombridge Place". It has a chapter on the Waller family legends. See our publications list. groombridge Place is in the parish of Speldhurst and Waller money may have helped rebuild the Church in Speldhurst

John
George was baptised 17 Jan 1790 in Penshurst son of Richard and Martha. This is taken from the fiche that we sell of Penshurst parish registers. You may find more there.

Hello Sandy
As mentioned in the email I sent to you directly, I was passed your query by our webmaster. I show an extract from our Journal featuring a brief outline history of GROOMBRIDGE, a village fairly close to Speldhurst so I assume you will be interested in Groombridge Place.

'The history of the village is linked closely with the families who owned the Manor. For 240 years from 1360 it was the Waller family.
Sir Richard Waller gave rise to the legend that he captured the Duc d'Orleans at Agincourt and held him prisoner, at Groombridge, for ransom, for 30 years. (subsequently it was proved that it was his younger brother Jean Count d'Angouleme who was the prisoner.)'

All the best

Colin Huggett

Hi there everyone - I have traced one side of my ancestory back to a marraige in Speldhurst in the early 1830's - Charles CALVER who was a butler (don't know to whom) to Louisa PENN - Charles I believe from either Suffolk or Norfolk and Louisa's family from Walthamstow in East London. What were they doing in Kent? Have found Louisa in the 1841 census in Leiston in Suffolk, and both subsequently died in the Walthamstow area Has anyone any ideas that I could follow up? I would be most grateful for any help. Many thansk

Hi All
I have it on good authority that the Irish National Archives put the 1911 Census for Dublin on line on Monday 3rd December.

I'm trying to help a Canadian student whom I happened to meet in Kenya last month and invited her to visit us. En route(!) from Heathrow to Lancashire we can spend one day in Speldhurst attempting to surprise her grandmother who has been researching their family. Jill's Grandmother says, "There is a castle in Kent that has 3 stained-glass windows that display our family crest. The windows were a gift to my ancestor Sir John Waller by the Duke of Orleans, after Sir John saved his life at the battle of Agincourt." The castle is supposed to be in Speldhurst but I've not found mention of a castle there so don'tr know where to take Jill to look. We don't know how to go about researching in such short time but as Jill is paying this unexpected visit to England, it would be wonderful to surprise and please her grandmother. Can anyone help with the castle or add information about the Waller family? Could it be a castle somwhere else locally or windows in a different Speldhurst building? I've enjoyed reading guestbook and although time is so short, hope someone can shed light for us.

I would like to tell you through my leaving my details on your Guest Book in January, I am in contact with direct family. Our grandfathers were brothers. So thank you for the site and for strangers being able to leave a message. I am RAPT. I hope others can have the same luck.
Joan McConachie

Thank you for your kind words Joan. I am pleased you have been suuccessful in your research. Best wishes. Ian

Hi, Through family, census, birth, marriage and death info, I have traced my GGGG Father to George Gasson born Penshurst, Kent in 1790 who married Ann Kneller on 26.04.1812 who was born 1788 in Chiddingstone, Kent. Can anybody suggest where I could find information about their parents etc.

Thanks YVONNE , I might go to the TWRL next Monday, I did use it a while ago , but didn't find anything , Wedding picture / WW1 death notice etc.... I did rush though.
Do you know if they have the non voters list there from the (I think) 1920's ?
Who's an expert on Pembury Village?

Hi Gary
Have you tried Pembury Old Church situated near the Kent College on Old Church Road, I dont know if they have a memorial, but worth a try. Also you might try Tunbridge Wells Reference library, they have been very helpful to me in the past. Happy Hunting
Yvonne

Hi All....
I do hope that someone can help me , i'm at my wits end trying to locate the Family tree line from my Great Grand Father FRANK WEBB, he served in WW1 , but it's unknown what happened to him , 17 Frank Webb's were KIA , but none of them match , he married my Great Grandmother Keturah Maryan at St Peter's Church Pembury on 1st Sept 1917 aged 30 (Father's rank or Profession just states Soldier on active service) and my Grandfather was Christened a month earlier , but the Father's name is missing , i'm thinking as they weren't married she couldn't put anything down? It has Keturah's abode as Henwood Green Rd Pembury , please can someone help.
P.S. Are there anymore WW1 memorials in Pembury i can check out , i've checked the main church on the green.

Coopers of South View Road, High Brooms, Southborough.
Hi all, i am trying to find information on the Baptisms, Marriages and Deaths of my family of Coopers who lived in Southborough 1890-1910. Does anyone know which church the family would most likely have attended? I am aware of St Matthew's, but i can only find very limited parish registers for these years. I was wondering if another church may have been used instead, i do not know the area so am trying to get a feel for the parish. If someone was buried at Frant Cemetery in 1900, would they have had their service at the cemetery or would it be at the parish where they died, this happened to be at Tonbridge Workhouse.
Thankyou for your attention,
S Hadley.

Please could someone help I am trying to trace information on my paternal grandmother who was called ROSE FLORENCE MARCHANT we know she lived at 1b (or 18) Western Road Tunbridge Wells in 1944 (we think she was unmarried at this time) as my father was born at Sandhill Pembury Road thank you

Hello, I am looking to see if anyone has any information on what became of the family of Charles A Brown and Mary Brooks. Charles and Mary married in June 1922 in Hawkhurst. Charles was listed as a Farrier on their Marriage Certificate.
Mary was born in Brede but lived with her family at a tied cottage at Conghurst Farm Hawkhurst at the time of her Marriage. Can anyone help?
Regards
Russ Brooks

Hallo Tunbridge Wells,
I will wait till January before joining a very well organised FHS. I am researching the name TWORT as I have tracked down the marriage of Emily Twort daughter of Thomas Twort, Tunbridge Wells. Emily married Thomas Creed whose trade is given as cricket ball maker. I know that their descendants were in the area at the beginning of 20th century and the name Creed is still in the area.

Hi I'm looking for any information on the Faibrothers who lived in Tunbridge Wells in the 1800 hundreds. Thank you

Hello, I wonder if anyone can give me information on my grandfather THOMAS BRADFIELD b.1874 and who lived for a time with my grandmother, MARION and their 3 children JOAN, BETTY (my mother) and PETER in LEYSWOOD (the main house), GROOMBRIDGE. Thomas Bradfield was well known in the horse world being a riding master, trainer, point-to-point rider and hunted with local hunts. I know my grandmother left Leyswood some time after the birth of Peter and took the children to live in Bristol. I am also pretty sure my grandparents were never actually married, Thomas being married to someone called Minnie Harding. I am sure there is an intriguing story somewhere! Can anyone please help?

Many thanks for the information Shirley.
I have added your info to my family records.

Does anyone have a spare copy of Bygone Kent magazine, Vol 13, No 3, March 1992? Its has a yellow cover and contains an article on Tunbridge Wells Coal Merchants.
I need it for my family records and can't find one anywhere.
Many thanks.
Craig.

Carol, I have had a reply from the company who created the template for this site. They said that there isn't an indexing option available for the Guestbook. However they have passed the query on to the developers so that a change might be included in a future update. Lets keep our finger crossed!
Ian

Dear Yvonne
Thank you for your help. Mick Illston found my Mabel Louis LUCAS. Fortunately there is a headstone so Great grandson can now visit whilst on his trip through Kent.
Again many thanks
Patricia Weber

It's great to see the guest book so popular and I always enjoy reading the messages (in the unlikely event that I can help anybody!). However now there are getting to be so many of them it can be hard to keep track. Would it be possible to enhance the page so that replies to messages are attached to those messages? I imagine that if you are posting a request for information it will get increasingly difficult to see if you have had any responses.

Craig Taggart - Pembury Grange, Sandown Park, was a home for elderly ladies. It has now been converted into private homes.

Thanks Carol. Although I keep the web site up to date and 'vet' the Guestbook entries I don't have much control of its workings. Ideally I would like to be able to introduce some form of indexing system in the Guestbook. I will look into the possibilities.

Hi Patricia Webber
Can I suggest that you try contacting Hawkenbury Cemetery (as I think this is the most likely place). Ask them for a list of burial/cremations for LUCAS. Then if you find her name there you could ask for the 'Burial Board'. My contact is "Mick Illston" ; The people at Hawkenbury cemetery have been very helpful to me in the past. Good luck with your search.
Regards Yvonne

Can anyone help me find out what happened to a Mary Brooks from Hawkhurst.I believe she married a Charles A Brown in 1922. Mary was born in Brede around 1899, while Charles was from Cranbrook and born around 1873.
I would be delighted to find out what became of either of them?

I am trying to find the cemetery around Tunbridge Wells for Mabel Louise LUCAS who died in 1938. I think she may have lived with family in Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells after her return to England from Australia.
Many thanks for any help, much appreciated.
Patricia Weber

Hello Roy,
Many thanks for your help. I now have to find where she was buried or cremated!
Best wishes,
Craig.

In 1815, 1817, and 1819, Robert Stickland and his wife Hannah had their children Robert, Hannah, and John baptized at Ticehurst. They appear in the 1820 Monroe County, NY, USA, census. I have been unable to find a marriage record or passenger record that includes them. Any ideas greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Tony Simpson

Hi Tony
Reynolds Lane runs from the St Johns area of Tunbridge Wells northerly to Southborough, in all about one and quarter miles. The Tunbridge Wells end of the Lane falls within the parish of St Johns Church whereas the northern end is most probably covered by St Peters Church in Southborough. I suggest you look in the St Johns baptismal records first. I believe that both sets of records are kept at the Kentish Records archives in Maidstone.

Regards
Roy

Craig Taggart

Hi Craig
In Kellys Directory for 1968 Pembury Grange in Sandown Park is shown as an old people's home operated by Kent County Council.

Regards

Roy

Does anyone know if Pembury Grange, Sandown Park was ever or still is a nursing home?
When my spinster gg aunt Lucy Winifred Bingham died at Pembury Hospital in 1968, Pembury Grange, Sandown Park was given as her address.
Any help or info would be very much appreciated, thank you.

My maternal grandmother Catherine Elizabeth was born to Susannah Featherstone
a single mother 10th April 1878, in Reynolds Lane. T.Wells, father unknown. it would be most helpful if someone could suggest where she may have been baptised. presumeably in the Tunbridge Wells area. Thanks for any assistance or information. Tony

am seeking any info on the watkins family who liveed in tunbridge wells from 1871 onwards. they were plasterers by trade,lived in stanley road at one time.known names are george born 1885 frederick watkins 1895william watkins 1867.harriett watkins1878,caroline watkins1870,jane watkins1868, all help much appreciated

I am researching the lives of the 10 Victoria Cross holders associated with Tunbridge Wells, Who all are remembered in Dunorlan Park ( Victoria Cross Grove). I am interested in any local details of the following:
Charles Davis Lucas
Matthew Charles Dixon
William Temple
John Duncan Grant
Douglas Walter Belcher
William Robert Fontaine Addison
Eric Stuart Dougall
William Hew Clark-Kennedy
I have already written the stories of John Brunt and Lionel Ernest Queripel.
Many thanks

Richard Snow

Tim Cottingham of Australia
Hi.
Confirmation at last from Hawkenbury cemetery Mary Jane buried on 31st January 1944 and Robert Cottingham was buried 24th June '1938'.
Glad to have been some help. Hope you have a good visit to the UK in 2010.
Best wishes YVONNE

Dear Yvonne,
Thankyou very much for all your help in tracing my relatives.I appreciate the help a lot.I will now make Hawkenbury on my list of places to visit one day.
Thanks again.....Tim in Brisbane

Iam looking for information of the children of Cornelius Mulholland of Tunbridgewells, Cornelius was the brother of my father Michael Mulholland,they had another brother named Peter Leo,all born in Dublin, as far as I know Cornelius had 4 children, was married to Josephine Gore in 1950 in Dublin, I hope someone knows them, p.s. Cornelius ran a pub in tunbridge wells.

Yvonne, thanks for the information on St Mark's Hall.
Regards,
John Matthews

Does anyone remember or is related to a man called Walter Thomas Allan who was son of Thomas Colin Allan and Alice Dinah Bingham. He was bank manager of Barclays Bank in the Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells. He was born in 1901 in Tunbridge Wells and died in 1988 in Sussex. I believe he married and had 2 children.
Many thanks.

Does anyone know anything about the KENT COLONIZING ASSOCIATION which existed in prior to WW1? It was involved in immigration schemes for South Australia and other places but I can't find anything about it.

As a member of Sussex Family History Group ( amongst others !) I was able to enjoy the entertaining talk, last night, by Merryl Catty and Audrey Gillitt.
It was my first visit to your group as I am relatively new to researching my family history. However, not only was the talk excellent but I have to say what a really friendly welcome I received and I would like to say ' Thank You'

Sonia Turner

John Mathews
There is still a St Mark's Hall in Tunbridge Wells but I'm not sure if it would have been big enough to have been a VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachment). It is on Bayhall Road not far from the 'Bull' Pub. Hope this helps your research. Good luck
regards yvonne

Hello Colin,
I have received the marriage certificate of Thomas Colin Allan and Alice Dinah Bingham. It lists Thomas' father as William John Allan a grocer, the only grocer named William John Allan i could find was in the 1901 census and 1903 Kellys directory at 26 High Brooms Road.
Thomas at the time was living at 1 Lawrence Terrace, Clifton Road, Alice was living at 10 Grosvenor Road, which was her fathers coal merchants address.
I have had some luck in tracing more of the Allan family from a descendent of Thomas' sister Ellen Maud Allan.

Further to my question about St Mark's hospital during the 1st World War, I have obtained additional information from http://www.juroch.demon.co.uk/hospitals.htm St Mark's was apparently one of a number of VAD hospitals (and similar) that operated in the Tunbridge Wells area. It may have been at St Mark's hall. Does this still exist?

Does any one have any information on "The Mullett Family" Fanny Mullett went on to marry Charles Stapley and their son became Father Charles Mullett Stapley and is buried in Tunbridge Wells.

Hi TIM COTTINGHAM
On Saturday I was able to view records for Kempsters Funeral Directors (Albion Rd Tunbridge Wells) at St Barnabas Church Heritage Day. I found Mary Jane Cottingham age 73 at the address you gave and on the date you gave. It says she was buried in a polished elm coffin and these reference numbers 'Class C section 19 Number 719 con 18/6'. I have sent email to Hawkenbury cemetery and asked if they would confirm these reference numbers as theirs. Will let you know the outcome.
Regards Yvonne

Dear Yvonne,
Hi, thats FANTASTIC news, found at last,words cannot say enough,thankyou very very much.I wonder if her husband Robert James Cottingham is there also?

Your a STAR
Best wishes....Tim

I recently obtained the WW1 pension record for my grandfather. He was hospitalised in St Mark's hospital, Tunbridge Wells. Does anyone know about this institution? Where was it? Do any rcords survive?

Any help will be much appreciated,

John Matthews

Dear Yvonne,
Thankyou again, i appreciate ALL your help,If there is anything i can help you with please let me know,

Best wishes...Tim

Hello Colin,
Many thanks again for the photos of Thomas Allans coal business. Sorry, but i did not see your message on here.
I have ordered Thomas Allans marriage certificate to my gg aunt Alice Dinah Bingham in 1900, hopefully that will give his fathers name so i can trace descendents of possible siblings.
Still cant find where he was buried or cremated, i have asked at Hawkenbury, but he's not there.
I've also written to the antiques shop now at his old premises at 68 St Johns Road, asking if they know any history about the building, but have yet to have a reply.

Many thanks again for all your help.
Best wishes,
Craig.

Hi Tim Cottingham
I have been to Tunbridge Wells Library but have been unable to find anything on Mary Jane. Sorry, but I will keep trying.
Regards Yvonne

Shirley - I've only just seen your reply to my query re- Mary Ann Smith. Thank you so much for your help - I will pursue your suggestion ... Eileen

Can anyone please help me find any decendants of George and Judith Annie Brooks.
George Brooks was born in Sussex in 1848, eventually living in Sandhurst Kent where he died in 1932. George's second wife, Judith Annie also died in Sandhurst in 1947. George had a total of ten children from both his marriages but I have been unable to trace what became of them.
I am hoping someone will be able to help me find any information on his daughter, Mary, who I believe is my Grandmother.

Hello Craig
It is me again. I have in my files a photocopied article about coal businesses in Tunbridge Wells which includes a brief summary of T C Allan. I have endeavoured to obtain good scans of the two pictures which will be of interest to you but bear in mind they are from photocopies. I will send them by email

Colin Huggett

We think we have linked our William Heasman (who came to Canada in 1842) to a family living in Bidborough in the 1841-81 census'. He is born Sept-Oct 1827 and his parents were William Heasman (born Battle, Sussex) and Maria Twort (born Bidborough, Kent). The children were Caroline, William, Mary Ann, Selina, Watt, Georgina, and George E. Caroline married Jon Stiller; Selina married Jabez George Snashill then died 1 year later; Watt died 1856; Georgina married Stephen Brooker. Parents Maria died 1877 and William died 1880.

We are just speculating that this is our William as he is the only William Heasman with a birth date close to 1827 - [handwritten in a bible here in Canada]. We have no record of his coming to Canada in 1842 (listed on the 1901 Canadian Census) or of his wherabouts between 1842 and 1859 when he marries in Ontario. We have pieced together all other information from 1859 to present and would hope to connect with someone in the family over in England - maybe they have records of our man as well and further ancestry.
If you can help please e-mail back.

Dear All,
I hope someone may be able to help me once again.
I am looking for information on my great great grandfather John T Bingham and his son in law Thomas C Allan who had coal merchants in Tunbridge Wells, they had addresses at 10 Grosvenor Road, Goods Station Yard and 157 Camden Road.
I would like to know if anyone knows the years they were in business or if any photos or documents survive of their coal merchants business.
Many thanks for your time.
Craig.

Hi, Yvonne,
Thanks you have answered one question, St James has no Graves?? I did ask someone and they could not tell me.As far as I know Mary Jane and Robert would be C of E .Why do so many people disappear when they die?.
I appreciate all your help,Thankyou,.
Tim

Dear Yvonne,
Hello again, many many thanks for looking for me.Did Sandhill have a Cemetery?
I do not even know where Robert is buried. I wonder if Mary Jane is in Pembury?
Yes i did know Mary Jane was a Blackman, daughter of Frederick and Hannah Blackman from Wadhurst / Ticehurst.

Thanks again for your help........Tim

Hi Tim Cottingham
No Sandhill does not have a cemetery. It used to be the Workhouse but has been known as Pembury Hospital for many years. I checked St James Church but this does not have its own grave yard. Would you know what religion they practiced?
regards
YVONNE

Hi, TIM COTTINGHAM - Australia
Have checked with Hawkenbury Cemetery for Mary Jane Cottingham but they have no record of her. I have also been to Wadhurst and Ticehurst parish churches but have had no luck. I will be going to Tunbridge Wells Reference Library soon and hope to check the obituary records and see what that tells us.
I have found a Robert James Cottingham in the 1881 census, have you seen this yet? (www.familysearch.org) I think Mary Jane's maiden name may have been BLACKMAN.
Regards YVONNE

Tuddenham Bros - Mineral Water Company in Tunbridge Wells
Hi, my husband's grandmother was Elsie Henrietta Tuddenham b. 1893 in the town. Her family ran the above company but this was sold and she ended up in Deptford! Would love to know about this family when they lived there as I have a lot of information about their ancestors who came from Norfolk.

Lyn

I am trying to find out WHY a young man (age 15) would leave his home and family in 1842 and head to Canada. His is with his family (William and Maria Heasman) in Bidborough/Tunbridge/Kent in 1841 Census and next we know he is married in 1859 in Acton, Ontario, Canada. Is there any records that may dictate why, where, how he left England and where would I look for these. I am in Calgary, AB, Canada. He was William Heasman who married Catherine McKenzie.

I am trying to trace whether 7 Albion Sq St Johns Road Tunbridge Wells was a childrens home in 1944.

Hi. Just found your site through google. I hope that there is some one out there who may be able to help me. I am looking for information on an ancersor from Tunbridge. My records say she was born there in 1801. Her name is Jane Cotten. I am at a dead end and as I livein Australia I cannot just hop down the road to check out records. She was married at St Marylebone. London 8/2/1818 To a Richard Jackman ( born C. 1796 at ????) and in the 1841 Census they lived in the Bradleys Buildings. St John, Hampstead. Both listed as born 'out of County'.
No one here has been able to get past the barrier of this point.
Hope some one knows something.
Have a nice day.
Judy

hello i am looking for any info on william john playford and his wife eliza nee watkins. i beleive william was a postman in 1906,are there post office records available?thank you

Eileen
Mary Ann Smith was probably buried in the Tunbridge Wells Borough Cemetery/ Kent and Sussex Crematorium at Bayhall Mill Rd Tunbridge Wells. If you give then full details they will look it up for you. Phone 01892 554052. Otherwise there is a list of burials at Woodbury Park Cemetery at Tunbridge Wells Reference Library, but your date is a bit late - it closed for burials approx, 1873.

Kath George, I found your letter dated 22/03/07 on the T.W.F.H.S. Web Site, seeking info regarding The English family, and their offspring. I am directly related, and have much information and also photos in my possesion.Hopefully you see this message, and we can communicate with one another.

Kath George your e mails are being returned unanswered. Please Check.
Geoff

My great Aunty Tryphena Williams was nanny to a little girl called Fifi Grigson in the 1920's/30's. They were obviously really close as Tryphena brought her down to Wales a number of times to meet her family - I have a number of photos of her with Try's siblings. When the war came, so my Dad says, Fifi joined the Land Army and was working on Major Cazalot's farm. Tryphena and Fif shared a cottage - of which I have photos of - and lived there until Try had to be put into nursing home where she died. She is buried in Kent. I was wondering if Fifi or any of her family were still in the area. My Dad knew her well, they were around the same age, Dad is 83 next week. Maybe Fifi's family or indeed Fifi would like copies of my photos. I have tried to do some hunting myself but as Fifi was a nikname I have found it hard. Thanks for reading :-) Feel free to email me.

Hi,
I have a medal which belonged to my great great grandfather. It has Queen Victoria on one side and on the other, what looks like laurel and pine tree branches and across the face of the medal it says 'for long service in the volunteer force. Around the edge it is enscribed 1240 PTE J WILSON 1st V.B. RL W. KENT REGT. Clearly he was a private in this regiment for a number of years to be awarded the long service medal. He was born in Scotland (circa 1850) but lived and died (1910) in Tunbridge Wells. Does anyone have any knowledge of this volunteer regiment, or are able to direct me to where I can find records. He was a shoemaker by trade. thanks

Hi Yvonne,
Mary Jane Cottingham died 26th January 1944 at Sandhill,Pembury.She was living at No 16 St James Park T,Wells.Her husband Robert James Cottingham died in 1940.
Any help greatly appreciated,
Thanks....Tim

I am told that my ancestors (Britt) resided in Tunbridge Wells probably in the period 1850-1910. In particular I am trying to trace my Great Grandfather Arthur Charles Britt and my Grandfather Richard Britt (Born 6 July 1884). Any information on Britts in Tunbrige Wells would greatly be appreciate - I have been searching since 1977

Hi Tim
My husbands grandfather died at Sandhills (now Pembury Hospital) and his body was buried at Hawkenbury Cemetery Tunbridge Wells, may be you could look there. Good luck
Yvonne

Hi Tim Cottingham of Australia
If you like I could look for Mary Jane for you as I go to Hawkenbury cemetery quite often. Send any details you can
Yvonne

I am interested in the Fry family of Frant around 1790.Especially John Fry who married Lydia Leaney at Lingfield in 1813.John was able to read and write where might he have been educated?John claims to have been born in Frant in 1790.Any help would be welcome. Alan Fry

Hello T,Wells,
I have a relative who lived at St James Park in 1944 she died in Sandhill Pembury.
Mary Jane Cottingham died jan 1944,has anyone got information on burials in St James Church, T,Wells ? or any other churchyard in that area please?
I have been told she is not in Woodbury Park Cemetery, maybe she is in Pembury?
I hope to come back and visit T,Wells in 2010,

Best wishes...Tim , Australia

Hello Colin,
Many many thanks for your help. It seems my family photo must be the Hobbs family, although it shows i think the grandmother, daughter and granddaughter, no males in it at all. I will see if i can find a death of a George Hobbs in Tonbridge district from 1919 to 1922 when the directory lists a Mrs Hobbs from 1922.
As for TH Bingham, he is not a member of my Binghams, it was only John Thomas Bingham, his wife Lucy Harriet Bingham and their spinster daughter Lucy Winifred Bingham living in Tunbridge Wells. Lucy Winifred Bingham died in 1968 so maybe some older generations may remember her.
Someone may also remember Thomas Colin Allan and Alice Dinah Binghams daughter Doris Alice Allan, she was also a spinster when she died in 1958.
My Binghams are buried in Hawkenbury Cemetery, which i keep meaning to visit when i am next in the UK.

Many thanks again for your help.
Craig.

Dear Madam/ Sir:
I am looking for the relatives of Joan M. Beard, born on December 13, 1919 in Tunbridge Wells. He parents were Ada Eva Barrett and John Robert Beard. She had a brother, Clifford R Beard,born on June 1917 in the same location.
Joan died in California and left a small unclaimed estate. I am trying to locate Clifford, or his children in regards to this estate.
I would greatly appreciate if you would help me with some information about Clifford Beard.
Thank you for your time in this matter.
Sincerely,
Karinna Kruse

Hello again Colin,
I have just found an online 1914 Kelly's Directory for Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. It lists a George Hobbs living at 45 Pembury Road, maybe the husband of Mrs Hobbs.
It also listed Thomas Colin Allan, a corn, coal and forage merchant at 157 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, also at the same address was my gg grandfather John Thomas Bingham, also a coal merchant. Both my gg grandfather and his wife Lucy Harriet Bingham both died at 157 Camden Road, sadly i find out it is now a thai restaurant!
If anyone has an original copy of the 1914 Kelly's Tunbridge Wells Directory, there is an advert on the back cover for Thomas C Allans coal merchants, i would love to have a scan of the ad.
Thank you.

Craig
Using a combination of Pelton's and Kelly's Directories for the years 1910-1917 and 1919, the only resident at 45 Pembury Road during those years was a Geo Hobbs who was the Tonbridge Urban District Council Rate Collector. TWells library has no copies for the years 1918, 1920, 1921. Tonbridge library may have copies.
A T H Bingham was living at Hilden Cottages, London Road for the years 1914-1916. He was also listed as Thos Hy. In 191 a Thomas Henry Bingham was residing at 7 East Street.
Best of luck
Colin

Dear Colin,
Many thanks for your help. Unfortunately none of those names are familiar to me at present, although they may ring bells to older members of my family. Does Kelly's list the names pre 1922? Say from 1915? Looking at the photograph the ladies dresses certainly look late 1910s early 1920s.
My families in the area at the time were the Binghams and the Allans.
My great great uncle by marriage was Thomas Colin Allan who became Lord Mayor of Tunbridge Wells 1946-1949.
Many thanks and best wishes,
Craig.

In part answer to Craig Taggart's request re occupants of 45 Pembury Road, the available Kelly's Street guides for the period show: 1922-1924 - Mrs Hobbs; 1926-1929 - Mrs Lambotte; 1931 - Thomas Rowell Blythman; 1932 - house not listed; 1933, 1934 - Rennie & Co, Tailors; 1935 - Mrs Seal; 1936 - Geo. Edwd Vigor; 1937-1940 - Geo Edwd Vigor aparts.
The 1937-1940 entries I assume indicate that Mr Vigor let some of the premises as apartments. If your photo is of this period the group could be of any family and you would need the electoral rolls which are at Maidstone.

I hope someone will be able to help me. I need to find out the name of a family who lived in Pembury Road, Tonbridge in the 1920s-1930s. I have an old family photograph which on the back reads, from all at 45 Pembury Road, Tonbridge.
but i have no idea who they are. Can anyone help me please, thank you.

I have just found your site and hope someone can help me. I am looking for any information about my great-grandfather SAMUEL WYBOURNE, born circa 1849 in Robertsbridge. His father was SAMUEL GOERGE WYBOURNE, a blacksmith. I cannot trace anything of either Samuel's life in Sussex - only ggf's marriages in Wapping, Middlesex. Many thanks in anticipation of help.

Does anyone know of any info about Jane 1875, Margaret 1876, and Caroline 1879 surname WATKINS, all born in Tunbridge Wells. Did Margaret marry a Fred Wickers and Jane a Kemp. They had a brother George who was living in Etchingham 1901. Thanks

Good Day,

I was wondering whether anyone can assist me! I am a direct descendent of Frederick Wells (of Cullinan Diamond Fame) and was wondering whether anyone has ever managed to trace his ancestory! Rumours abound in our family as to his ancestory but no firm facts! Has anyone in the Family History Society perhaps picked him up somewhere along the line? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated!

Vicki Teulon

good evening tunbridge wells,please can anyone out there help me.on behalf of my mother kathleen,i am trying to trace relatives of hers dating back to the early 1900,s to the presant day.my mothers maidan name was krug,her mother was a mrs HANNAH HARRIET KRUG, who lived at72 colebrook rd HIGH BROOMS back in 1930.unfortunately she gave my mother up and she was fostered out.however i have since found out that hannah died in 1976, widowed, and i believe it may of been her son that organised the cremation,he being WILLIAM ALFRED KRUG.back in 1930 a MR EDWARD STAPPLE was living at the above address.If ANYONE may be able to help i would be extremely greatful,. thankyou .

I AM STUDYING THE HISTORY OF MY LOCAL TOWN, AND I HAVE FOUND A FAMILY CALLED MILNER WHO BECAME LORDS OF THE MANOR OF PUDSEY, AND WITHIN 2OO YEARS THEIR FAMILY SPREAD TO OTHER AREAS OF THE COUNTRY, AND MARRIED INTO WEALTHY FAMILES. I AM TRYING TO TRACE THEIR ORIGIN, WHICH LEADS ME TO KENT:- TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND LEEDS. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY LEADS THAT YOU ARE ABLE TO GIVE ME, IN ORDER THAT I CAN COMPLETE ONE PART OF MY MISSION. THANKYOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO TAKE UP SPACE IN YOUR GUESTBOOK. REGARDS, KEN MYERS

Further to my query (12th April) of the maiden name of my g.g.grandmother Emma Cripps/Crapps/Scraps. I have been able to eliminate the Emma that died in 1862.
Therefore, I have come to the conclusion that Emma Scraps born to William in 1846 is possibly my g.g grandmother, as the date of birth and place of birth all tie in with the census of 1851 through to 1901 (except 1871) However, I am still wandering why if she is indeed William and Elizabeth Scrapps daughter, why she gave Henry Cripps a gardener as her father on her marriage certificate. Has anyone else had this problem in researching their family history, and if so were you able to resolve it?

Hello Tunbridge, I've just discovered your site today and would like to take the oppertunity to ask whether anyone can help me with any information on my Grandmother, Mary Brooks', family. Her Father, George Brooks was born in Sussex around 1848/54, and was married to his second wife (Judith) Annie Blanch, with whom he had several children including Mary. I believe George worked on farms on both sides of the Sussex/Kent border and died in August 1932 in the Hawkhurst area of Kent, but I cannot find what happened to the Family.
It would be great to hear from anyone who may be able to help
Russ

I have been researching my husband's family tree and his G.G. Grandfather was Henry Bowles 1838 Malling but he worked as a Coachman at Great Culverden Stables in Tunbridge Wells and had his family there. His father was James Bowles who was born in Tunbridge Wells and also a Coachman (don't know where). If anyone has any Bowles connections would be great to hear from them or if anyone has information on Great Culverden and stables or knows if any photos exist anywhere. Julie

Hello from Australia. I am trying to find the origins of my 4xg.grandparents. They may have married abt 1790-1795 in Tonbridge. His name was James Roffe and he married Elizabeth ? I have no other information on James or any of his family. All I know is his son Edward b.1799 Tunbridge, migrated to Australia and became my 3xg.grandfather. Hoping someone can help me please. Thank you Jenny

Rather late response to J Machin's question of 5 April. Looking through Kelly's Street Directories, a William Else resided at 13 Park Road, Tunbridge Wells from 1902-1911, nobody listed living there in 1912 and from 1913-1916 Dr Charles Parsons, MD was in residence. I didn't look at any years after 1916. Perhaps the person you're interested in died in his surgery or was he the doctor who signed the certificate? There is a Park Road in Southborough and a Thomas Goddard was living there in 1915, 1916.

Some time ago I asked for help re- my Smith ancestry in Tunbridge Wells - I'm also hoping that my queries will be in the next society Journal.[I need all the help I can get]
One developement I have is that I now have a death cert. for my Gt Grandmother , Mary Ann Smith [nee Cox]. She died 22 October 1879 at 5 Park Street, Tunbridge Wells and I'm wondering if anyone could possibly find out for me where she is buried as I don't quite know how to proceed.....
Also - there doesn't seem to be an awful lot of replies to the requests in the site Guestbook - this is not a criticism - just an observation - it would be lovely if we could hear some 'success' stories to encourage us 'newies'.
with many thanks Eileen

I thoroughly agree with Eileen's comment that more replies to Guestbook queries would be most welcome

Searching for information in regard to Elizabeth Burdett,born Tunbridge 1798,who married William Wadmore (Publican)

Researching Poole and Collison families Headcorn and surrounds. I have a photograph (possibly Ellen Collison) marked Alma Studio, Tonbridge, Can anyone advise when this studio was in business please. Thanks so much. Helen

Hi All,
Have just found this site, and filled out a membership form.
Just hoping for a head start. Im researching my fathers line, the name of Waghorn. Very intrested in the St Johns area of Tunbridge Wells. Also any info on the "Fly" (horse draw cab) businesses in Tunbridge Wells.
Look forward to hearing from any other members.

Hello Amanda good to have you join us.
When helping to transcribe Frant Parish records I noticed quite a few Waghorn(ne)s in the registers.
Good luck

I am currently researching the Farm Apprenticeship schem in pre WWI South Australia. I have come across a number of 17 to 18 year old boys who have come from the Tunbridge Wells area signing up in about Feb 1914 and arriving on the 'Irishman' ship in June 1914. There is reference to the Kent Colonizing Assn. Names include Akehurst, Ross, Carey, Pearce, Bishop, Botten, Rayner, Wimhurst, Thomas. Can anyone tell me about that period? - Was there a particular reason for boys of that age migrating at that time - or just the opportunity. Many of the boys signed up to fight for Australia a year or 2 later. I'm happy to chat with anyone interested.

I am researching the life of my grandfather Dr Eusebius Rouse who was the GP in Frant from approx 1900 to 1927. Any information on actual dates of arrival and departure and suggestions as to where I can get any more information (I have none) would be very useful. Thank you.

Can any body help me with any information on Edith Wells born Tunbridgewells 1878. Last known information is the 1901 census , she lived at Goods Station road age 22. Her mother was Harriett Wells nee Crittle. I live in Northumberland and my only way of finding out is the internet. Any help would be welcome.

I'm still trying to get info. on that sculpture, does anyone know anything about it?

Looking for info on the Gough Family from Tunbridge Wells. Joseph Gough born London married Rose Caroline Savage. Joseph was in the Navy as musician but he was also a boot and shoe maker. Their children were
Frances Ethel born 1881 Great Findley, Liechester went to Canada to live
Lillian Mary born 1885 Warrington, Lancashire married Mr. Davies
Elsie M born 1889 Twickenham, Middlesex
Dorothy Nellie born 1890 Tunbridge Wells married Mr. Krabbendam then Mr. Eatwell
Eva born 1895 Tunbridge Wells, Kent married Mr. Webber
Winifred born 1899 Married Mr. Drew
They lived at 4 Victoria Rd, Tunbridge Wells

Just found this wonderful site! Please keep it going. I am looking for ANY info.on the Hilder family of Tunbridge Wells,circa 1880. My Great grandmother,was Ellen Hilder Brookman.Her siblings:Rose,MaryAnn,Jenny and Edward Gorman Hilder. Parents lived in T.Wells also,first names unknown.The father passed about 1881. G-Gram gave birth to Mary Frances Hilder{grandmother}same year.Later wed a Mr.Brookman,died 1886,following childbirth of twins.Gram was placed in Barnardo Home,coming to Canada{age 12}1893. I have info, where siblings had moved to & where they were employed at time of Gram's birth. If this information,will be useful,to anyone,to aid me in my search,will gladly give it. I would dearly love to hear from anyone at T.Wells,even if there is no information as yet. Thankyou for your time. Yours,Frances E. Hilder

Am searching for information on the descendents of Ann Heaysman, particulary those of her daughter Rebecca who married William Coleman at Cranbrook. Kent on 22.5.1865. Rebeccas parents being Edward Terrey and Ann Heaysman

Joan - can you E-mail me as your address is not being accepted?

Am looking for info on Elizabeth Beecher, married Henry Prall, abt 1867. Both were from Brenchley, although 1881 census gives residence as Mile Oak. They emigrated to Nova Scotia in 1891. I have much info on the Pralls, but have hit the proverbial brick wall on the Beechers. Any assistance greatly appreciated.

Last week I joined your society, and made an entry in your guest book, since then i have been perusing all the links and pages on your site. I am not sure but I thought that at one stage that there were more icons or links in the border on the left hand side of the page, I went there and found it very informative, but since then I havent been able to find it, are there other links please?

Hi I'm triying to trace my family. His name is Richard Turner he was born in tunbridge wells in 1826? He was a gardener and married Theresa King in 1856 she was a cook for Henry Broadbent? Could any one help me please

Hi Greg. There are more links if you go to Membershp Information and Useful Links. I hope you find what you are looking for. Ian

Hi coming to you from Australia, I am seeking information about my Grandfathers family Pops name was Arthur Bones born either 1885 or 1886 in Stonegate Ticehurst. He told me that he lived in Tumbridge wells, his fathers name was John Bones and his mothers maiden name was Elizabeth Blackman, he listed his fathers ocupation as a Farmer. My Grandfather migrated to Australia in 1913. I would love to hear from any distant relatives. thank you for reading my letter regrds cheryl

Hello Tumbridge Wells, I am researching the History of William Coleman DOB 1841 born in Cranbrook Kent and who later moved to Tunbridge Wells, where he and his wife Rebecca Coleman Nee Terrey had 8 children.
William Edward Coleman 11.6.66 Tunbridge Wells
George Charles Coleman 17.2.1868 Tunbridge Wells
Albert Ernest Coleman 30.7.1873 Frant
Thomas Frank Coleman 11.6.1875 Tunbridge wells
May Rhoda Ann Coleman 18.5.1878 Tunbridge Wells
Isabel Kate Coleman 9.4.1880 Tunbridge Wells
Ernest Coleman born 1884 place unknown
Daisy Annie born 1887 Maidstone
We have been able to obtain limited information but seem to have come to a brick wall in a manner of speaking, would appreciate any information that anybody would care to share with us. Thanking you for your time

I am trying to find out where my grandfather, William Hall, was buried. He lived at St. James Road, T. Wells, and died in 1934. Perhaps there is a burial index for Tunbridge Wells online? Grateful for your help.

Bill Hall

I am having a problem finding any information on William Coe . I know he married Mary Ann Clark in 1860 and had been living in North Street Tunbridge Wells in 1868 when their second son was born (Thomas Henry Coe). His occupation was 'Agricultural Labourer'. Mary Ann re married Henry Baker about 1870. I can't find any death reference or birth ref for William Coe. I have tried the Frant cd but to no avail. Should anyone have any information I would be very grateful. Many thanks

I am looking for the grave of my Great-uncle - George Weyland Taylor. He died on 20th October 1912, at his home "Dovedale" Woodbury Park Road.

He is not buried at Woodbury Park Cemetery or at Hawkenbury. I am hoping someone can give some advice as to where to look next.

I am looking for my Grandmother's sister Edith Wells born Tunbridgewells 1878 I have her on the 1901 census age 22 in the district of Tonbridge living @ 54 Goods Station road Tunbridgewells along with her mother Harriett and a boarder Eva Knight. Can any one tell me if she married or when she died after that date.

hello,
i am interested in finding out about any Whitebread /Whitbread families in you area. if anybody has any info would they please contact me. regards beryl

I have been searching for details of my Gt Grandfather John James Smith and Gt Gt Grandfather James Smith , who I'd assumed were born in Tunbridge Wells ... on John James' marrige cert to Mary Ann Cox [1871]his address is given as High Street, Tunbridge Wells and his occupation a Tailor. His father was also a tailor but was deceased.
I've done a lot of searching on line, but with no luck until to-day, when I found a James Smith b.22nd April 1814 tunbridge Wells. Now I'm wondering when and who he married and if he had a son John James b.1839 ? Is there anyone out there who could find this out for me? I'm so hoping that it's the right James !
Also has anyone any info on Seager [?]Cottages, Mount Sion please?

I am in a dilemma over the correct maiden name of my great great grandmother
Emma. according to the census of 1881 through to 1901 she was born in either Tudeley or Hadlow about 1847. On her marriage certificate (December 1871) her name is Emma Cripps, Her father given as Henry Cripps a Gardner.
Her first son's (James Wilson b.1872) birth certificate her name is formerly Emma Crapes. Her 2nd son (Alexander b.May 1880) her name is formerly Emma Scraps. Her Spouse was James Wilson born in Scotland and a shoemaker.
There is a Henry Crapps (not Cripps) a gardner in Brenchley. none of the census shows a daughter called Emma.
There is a William Scraps born in Brenchley living in Hadlow who had a daughter Emma in 1846. But then there is also a record of death for an Emma Scraps in the year 1862.
Does anyone out there have any knowledge of Cripps/Crapps/Scrapps? Geographically the names seem predominately from Kent and the areas of Brenchley, Horsmonden, Hadlow and Tonbridge.
Emma lived all her life in Tunbridge Wells and died there in 1936. Her husband James Wilson died there 1910.

Hi,from Canada!
MY great grandfather ",JosephStannard" was an artist who lived in Tunbridge Wells,around a hundred years ago.We aredoing a family tree,and would like to get a hold of a picture of a sculpture he made for the town once, Would that be possible?I'm not sure but I think it is at or near the entrance to a park

Thankyou Connie[stannard]Lewis Edmonton ALberta

To anyone with local knowledge of Tunbridge Wells.

I wonder if anyone can help me with a little local knowledge of Kent. I have a death certificate for a family member who died at 13 Park Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The address of the informant was Estate Office, Eastwell Park, Ashford, Kent. The death occured 02nd March 1916. I would like to check who was living at these two addresses in the 1901 census but note that there are many enumeration districts for Tunbridge Wells in that census. I wondered if someone might be able to give me any idea which enumeration district/districts might cover these two addresses.

Thank you

John (25 March 2007 16:21:25)
In the 1880s Camden House was located in Quarry Road, Tunbridge Wells. The road is still there (between the lower end of Camden Road and the bridge over the railway) but there is no 'Camden House' name on any property, although some of the houses date from this time or earlier. I understand that some house names were discarded when the numbering system was introduced.

Could Shirley please contact me re the FRY information.
Joan McConachie
joan.mcconachie.co.nz

Kath. Your English family of Charles and Frances are in Frant (Sussex)on all the census returns until they left home. Mary Sophia was born 30 Jan 1848. I suggest you might like to buy our CD of Frant parish registers which gives baptisms and M.Is of the family as well as grave positions and a pictorial guide to the church.

Leander and Bernice -there was a Dr. Barnadoes Children's home on the London Rd. Southborough. Tunbridge Wells

Hello, I would be grateful for advice on where to look for more information about the FOREMAN family, Robert Montague and Alice Teasdale (nee Akerman), who lived at 60 Beulah Road T/W in 1901. Robert was a Clerk at the Gas Company, and they had a daughter, Winifred Alice, born on 10 August 1902. I am trying to find out as much as possible about Winifred, who may have become a dressmaker, so any hints about school records etc would be most welcome. Happy to become a member if anyone thinks they may be able to assist.

We have a needlework sampler by Eliza Able Allain Nye of Camden House Tunbridge Wells, does any one know of her or about Camden house. many thanks John.

I have received two family photo albums dated from 1885 with portaits of my grandmother's aunts and uncles many of them were the English family all born in Frant. My grandmother's mother was Mary Sophia English born 1849/50. Her father was Charles English and mothe Frances (nee Divall)
Charles was a tailor and Frances a sempstress, I believe.I think the family spread to Tunbridge Wells as I can remember(My grandparents talking about visiting an elderly Mrs English who lived in Tunbridge Wells, and that would have been a good 70 years ago!!
We have lived in Australia since 1968, but all our rellies in the UK send emails to me for information.
This has been a bit long winded, but it is difficult to find relevent info from this distance.
Can you help please?I would love to put names to faces in the albums.
In hopes. Thank you. Kath George

Hi, does anyone out there know of a place called 'Harvey Town', Tonbridge Wells? My ancestors lived there circa 1861 and I can't find a record of it anywhere except on the 1861 census.
Thanks Jay

A Register of Alehouse Keepers (1753-1827) at CKS, Maidstone, lists the King?s Head in Speldhurst parish (west side) and in another place locates it in Groombridge. From 1782-96 the keeper was Henry (or Harry) CAMFIELD and before him William GIBBS.
Other pubs mentioned on the list were the Bird in Hand (John CUTBATH), the Starr (Thomas MARYON), and the Porcupine (William RICHARDSON).
Can anyone suggest where the Kings Head may have been in Groombridge, or why the Crown Inn doesn?t appear on the list?

Hi, Im trying to find out if there was a Childrens home in Tunbridge Wells in the 1940's? My Mum and her two younger brothers were placed in one around 1944. I would be most grateful for any information.

Can anyone tell me if there was a childrens home in Tunbridge Wells in the 1940's. Someone I know had two little brothers taken there in around 1944/45 and she never knew what became of them.

Greetings Tunbridge
I'm looking for info on the possibility that my great-grandmother (born 1872 in St Helens, Lancashire) was in Tunbridge in 1891. The only person of the right name and age in the whole UK in the 1891 Census is listed as a boarder in a house full of young (aged 18-30 mainly) women in a street of similar boarding houses. I do know she trained as a midwife. So my question is - was there a training school for midwives in Tunbridge at that time?
Any info would be gratefully received.

Janet
I have just seen your message. Membership information concerning the Friends of Woodbury Park Cemetery can be obtained from Miss Pat Mathewick patmathewick@tiscali.co.uk .Other queries should be addressed to Mrs June Bridgeman jbman@britishlibrary.net

Regards Roy Thompson

Hi Everyone,
I am seeking information on a John HONEYMAN bn about 1825 at Tunbridge Wells (acording to his death certificate) His parents were supposedly John Honeyman and Eliza Brown. He may have had a brother Thomas. Honeyman is a Scottish name rather than an English name and I have not been able to find any more information on his birth. John bn 1825 emigrated to NSW Australia.
regards
Anne

I am looking for any information on MORTIMERS who were living in Tunbridge Wells or Tonbridge anytime around 1915 through the 1920's and onwards, especially if they were related to FREDERICK MORTIMER possibly in The Cresent area, any info please contact me

I am looking for any information on Aylwin. Robert Aylwin marr. Sarah Patrick. George Allen Aylwin a son marr.Hannah Smart and second her 1/2 sister Mary Ann Cooper. Chum

Hi, I have been researching my family for about 2 years now and trying to find records for my GGGgrandfather and his parents. Thomas migrated to Australia somewhere in the 1850's and married in Australia. The only information I have is that he was born about 1835 in what appears to be Tonbridge and that his parents where Thomas Stevens and his mother was Cecilia (possibly Wright). I am not familiar with English parishes so any advice you could give me would be appreciated.

Thanks
Colin

If you decide to join us, we can offer a limited, but free research service. By limited I mean looking at local sources at the T.W. Reference library and using our local knowledge and research library. Several of us live in Speldhurst parish so it is possible that we may be able to see the church's own registers. I am afraid that we do not include visits to the Record Offices in Maidstone and Lewes under this free service.

Joan. There are 2 memorial inscriptions for 2 Fry children 1862 & 1863 in Withyham churchyard. Also 3 earlier Fry baptisms (1819- 1848) at Ashurst.i have details if you are interested

Hello,


I've been researching my family history on my father's side for a while now and have come to a bit of a dead end. I believe I've found my great, great, great, great grandfather, William Skinner Ranger, who was apparently born in Speldhurst around 1808.


I have census details for him from the 1841 census living in Tenterden and have managed to get hold of his death certificate from 1875.


As I'm having to get hold of Parish record information (birth/marriage) from this point on it's quite difficult to find the correct information or which resources to possibly purchase.


The family lived around the Rye/Tenterden area and I paid for some local research to be done but this led me down the wrong route.


I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how to proceed from this point and let me know the benefits of membership to the F.HS. or which products would be of use for me to purchase. I live up in Yorkshire so it?s difficult for me to visit the research centres for Kent and Sussex.

Any advice on how to proceed would be gratefully received.


Many thanks

Chris
I have done some work on the Wells family for a member. If you contact me direct I will put you in touch.

hello, can anyone help me with info regarding charles 1853 and thomas1839 watkins.they were born in islington but moved to tunbridge wells where they both worked as plasterers and went on to marry and have large families. they lived in dudley street,stanley street andvarney st.any help would be much appreciated.

Chris McGrath - See our Journal No 34, Spring 2006 which may enlighten you a little and possibly supply you with a contact who may help you further. You will be able to purchase a copy of the Journal if you go to the Publications Page

Hello, I recently found out that my grandfather, Leslie Wells, who grew up in Tunbridge Wells and went to the Skinners' School, was the grandson of the author H. G. Wells. I'm curious to know some more information on the Wells family if anyone can help!

Brian Sealy - I suspect you may mean Liptraps Farm which is next door to our cottage which was probably one of the farm cottages, being built about 1861.
The farm itself is possibly late 16th century and was known as Liptraps Farm in 1902, then appears on a later map as The Poplars and is now known as Liptraps House. I think it may come in the Parish of St James although Liptraps Lane (formerly called Farm Lane) is the boundary for St Luke's Parish also. Attack St James' Parish Records first as these are held in Tunbridge Wells Library from 1866 well into the 1900s. They do not hold St Luke's Parish records apparently. Hope this helps but I'm intrigued as to why a watch/clock maker would be living on a farm.

Colin Huggett

FRY. I have looked in the Speldhurst database but cannot find any FRYs which relate to Joan McConochie. However I wonder if you have checked the Members Interests on this site as there are possibilities. Best of luck. D.J.

Looking for information on Ernest Edmund Victor Sealy (born June 21, 1869 in Tunbridge Wells) and his sister Maggie Rosina Lucretia Sealy (born July 6, 1873 at Lifetrap Farm, Tunbridge Wells). Their parents were Albert Robert Sealy and Elizabeth Ann Sealy (Algar). Can anyone tell me about "Lifetrap" Farm, and there people. Whats the best place to look at Parish Records?

Hello from NZ. I am looking for contact with family members or information regarding my Grandfather's family who were in Tunbridge Wells on 1901 Census & later. The family name is FRY and they came from Ashurst. I will list family
FRY Frederick b1835 Speldhurst Married 30 June 1860 Withyham Ssx
HOPE Eliza Kezia B 1840 Crowhurst Ssx
FRY Roland Henry b 1860 M PADGHAM Annie Maria 1887 Tunbridge Wells
FRY Rueben B 1864
FRY Ranah Kezia B 1865 D 1881
FRY Rose Anna B 1868 M RYDER Sidney 1890 Tunbridge Wells
FRY Rhoda Alice B 1870 M LEE ??????
FRY Richard B 1873 M FRENCH Ursula Elizabeth M 1902 (my Grandparents)
FRY Ellen B 1877 M ?????
FRY Edgar B 1879 M Kitty??? lived Tunbridge Wells
FRY Emily B 1884 M RATCLIFFE Percy

In 1932 Edgar Fry lived 80 Napier Road, Tunbridge Wells & 3 sons
Is there any help within members please?
Thank you
Joan McConachie

I have enjoyed browsing your site today.
My research has brought me to Tunbridge Wells via Greenwich with my FURNER family line. I am hoping to expand my knowledge of my GGGG grandfather Francis FURNER b.1788 who married Mary. He was born in Tunbridge Wells and his son William b.1817 (my GGG grandfather) was also born there but he moved to Greenwich and was a Master Tailor. Francis and Mary are shown living in Greenwich also in the 1851 Census but would love to know more about them and their families in Tunbridge Wells.
Any ideas?
Jan

I have 2 contacts:- Membership Pat Mathewick patmathewick@tiscali.co.uk or 01892 529946 and "other"June Bridgeman jbman@britishlibrary.net or 01892 525578

Re. COE family in Frant. Have you purchased our CD on Parish registers of Frant? There are several Coes listed. This can be obtained from our Publications Secretary.

Re. the parish records of Ashurst, Withyham,Horsmonden and Tunbridge Wells. Withyham 's registers are at the Sussex County Record Office, Lewes. The others are at the centre for Kentish Studies at Maidstone, with those of Speldhurst (including Ashurst) and some of Tunbridge Wells also being at the Local Studies section of Tunbridge Wells Reference Library.

Hello from NZ. I am researching the Smitherman family, who came from Tudely to T/Wells. My father is Leonard Smitherman born 1924 in Silverdale Rd to George Smitherman and Louisa Neal. George was born 1887 to George Smitherman [1864] and Alice Knight [1868], who had at least 11 children. George [1864] was born Tudely/Capel to Stephen Smitherman [1828] and Caroline Jenner nee Joy [1836] both married twice and they had 8 children between them.

Hello again! The second family I am researching as mentioned in my previous message, is Neal. My grandmother was Louisa May Neal born 1891 to Joseph Henry Neal [1856] and Fanny Greener [1870] She was the eldest of 8 children, the rest being boys. Joseph Henry was the son of Job Neal [1817] and Mary Haddock, [1819] and the last of their 5 children. The family came from the Salehurst/Frant Sx area early 1850's. Fanny Greener [1870] was the daughter of George Greener [c 1842?] and Mary Ann Peet [1844] the second child of 8 children. George was in the Horse artillary and returned to Pembury late 1881. The family continued to live there until their deaths, except George, who I can't find any death and he wasn't with the family in 1891 or 1901!! Fanny Greener lived in Denbigh Rd until her death c 1964 and was known to all as 'Granny Neal'! She was a large formidable lady! and her brothers were all very tall. One brother who didn't marry, 'Uncle Wally' continued to live on at the house until his death. One of fanny's sister Mary ann known aslso as Matilda or Til, married fred Green and lived in silverdale.
Any one who has a connection with the Smitherman/Neal/Greener families I would love to hear from you.
Dawn Hurst [nee Smitherman]

Can anyone give me the contact address for the Woodbury Park Cemetry group please. I did take it down but must have made an error as my e-mails keep being returned . Janet

I am hoping to make contact with anyone researching Bartholomew THORPE and family from Speldhurst, Kent, and later in Tonbridge, Kent in 1851. Does anyone know if there were military barracks in Tonbridge around 1815 onwards? Thank you kindly. Jill Hoge, Queensland, Australia

Hello. I am researching my husbands family tree the surname being COE from Tunbridge Wells and possibly Frant in the early 1800's if any one has any info it would be much apprieciated.

SOLCA, A. made PHIM Wheel Barometer and did come from Tunbridge Wells. Regards, Tunbridgewellsontheweb.com

Thank you so much for the information on Robert Buchanan Marriott. My family also lived in Calverley Park Road so I am pretty certain Holy Trinity was their place of Marriage. I would love a photograph of this Church if anyone has one please. I live in Australia, a little far away to be able to take it myself. Thank you

Anyone researching the HODGKIN family from Brenchley?

Could anyone please tell me any information regarding a Barometer Maker called A. Solca. I think that he made barometers in Tunbridge Wells somewhere between 1830 and 1840 ish.

Thanks

Bob

Can someone advise me where I should go to look up parish records for Ashurst, Withyham, Horsmondon and Tunbridge Wells. I had thought that I would need to go to the JKent County Records Office, but I see that this no longer exists and that records have been dispursed around the county! I am researching my great grandfather's line - PAWLEY - I've managed to go as far back as a Thomas Pawley in 1800's.

In the Guestbook on the Tunbridge Wells Family History Society's website you ask for information about 12 Broadwater Down, Tunbridge Wells. Are you sure the address was 12 and not 22 Broadwater Down? During the second world war the very large house at 22 Broadwater Down was used for several years by Kent County Council as an emergency maternity home. This building, probably constructed in the late 1800s, has now been converted into about 10 apartments. I have heard of at least one instance where an unmarried expectant mother, living elsewhere, travelled to this maternity home to have her child, presumably to avoid criticism from relatives, neighbours etc. Perhaps this was also the case with Leonora?

Turning to your second question, birth registers for Tunbridge Wells are kept at the Register Office - 39 Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1EP - and you could write and ask whether there is any comment about the father. But I am afraid I am not optimistic that you will obtain any information . As I understand the situation, if the mother was unmarried the father had to be present when the birth was registered otherwise his name was not be included in the register or on the birth certificate.

Good luck with your research.

Thank you for taking the trouble to reply to my message. I am sure you are quite right about the address being 22 as probably the address on Michael's birth certificate has been written incorrectly. I too am not optimistic but I felt I had to try. My clues are few. They include the name Reg which was written in a letter to Leonora's brother in the early 1950's, the mention of him being the son of a local greengrocer (she was living in Hayes, Middlesex at the time) and the possibility that his surname was Fitzgerald which is a name mentioned in a letter written by the Crusade of Rescue in 1947 where it states that Miss Eustace is hoping to marry a Mr. Fitzgerald. I have checked all the post office/street directories for the time and have a list of Greengrocers. So it now back to the electoral rolls to see if there is any mention of a Reginald (there are no electoral rolls for the war years). However, I will do as you suggest and write a letter to the Register Office just in case.

Incidentally, I wonder if you have heard of the Forbes Papers which are held at the Falkirk history centre on:
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/cultural/media/findingaids/Forbes%20Papers%20(pdf)/Forbes%20Papers.pdf
These contain correspondence between Forbes of Callendar who were coppersmiths from Aberdeen who expanded to London and supplied the navy. The archive is indexed and names/places in Kent are mentioned as they were corresponding to people in such places as Chatham, Deptford, Woolwich , etc. For instance there is a letter to one Partrick Heron of Tunbridge Wells. Perhaps you would find this useful?

Hello. I am trying to find records of my ggggf John Gainsford's birth. He was a boot maker in Drury Lane, and died 1841 just after the census, so all I know is that he was born outside Middx. I know there are lots of Gainsfords in Cowden, but not mine. Is anyone prepared to have a look at the parish records in your area for his baptism? ( I don't think they are on IGI). According to the very specific age (if accurate!) given on his death cert he was born around April 1798.

If any of your Society ever want me to look up Leicestershire or Rutland ancestors, just let me know. I am a member of LRFHS.

Does anyone know why in 1945 a young women who was an ex-private, ATS lodging in Enfield, Middx would have come to the maternity home at 12 Broadwater Down, Tunbridge Wells to have her illegitimate child? Do any of the original hospital registrar's birth books still exist any where as I am hoping that they might contain a comment in respect of the father as his name is not on the birth certificate. The young lady in question was named Leonora Helen Eustace and the research I have carried out on behalf of my friend Michael has lead to a happy conclusion with a good relationship with his birth family (his birth mother died in 1999). There is only a small chance that I can locate his father with the limited information I have available but if anyone can help me with these queries I would be grateful.

I am researching my BLACKMAN, BROADBRIDGE, GILBERT, HUNT AND MACHELL families from Kent. Would love to contact desc. of Philip and Hannah Hunt, Crayford. One daughter, Harriet married a Machell.
Beth

Bryan: re obtaining publications. If you let me know what items you want to order I will arrange for you to pay us using the PayPal method which a secure method enabling you to use your credit card.

Have visited the site (again) in the hope that overseas researchers could now order publications and pay by credit card. It costs about £12 to buy a cheque in Sweden where I am researching and I feel the money would be better spent in buying publications.
Regards - Bryan Manktelow

I AM DOING RESEARCH ON THE BUSS FAMILY THAT CAME FROM THAT AREA TO NEW ENGLAND (US) IN THE MID-1600'S. DOES ANYONE HAVE AN IDEA ON REFERENCES , CEMETARY/BIRTH/DEATH RECORDS, ETC. THAT I MAY USE ON FURTHER REAEARCH?
THANK YOU,
GARY BUSS
DENVER, COLORADO
US

Martin Hepworth is only too pleased to help if at all possible. Pleae supply me with a contact address

I am looking for any information about the Weeks family from Tunbridge Wells, please. The parents were JAMES WEEKS & EMILY ROSER. James was an architect. The family lived at Vale Towers, London Road, T/W.
Their children (all born T/W) were : EMILY MELINDA 1863
FLORENCE ELLEN 1868 married William Baverstock
SOPHIE 1870 married David Smith
ELLA 1872 married Alexander Bryce Cooper
JAMES 1874 married Rhoda Frances Knowles
FRANCES SIDNEY 1880
HEDLEY WHITFIELD 1883
PERCY BERTRAM 1885
It is the three youngest who I would like to mostly find out about.
Any information would be wonderful.
Thanks for reading this.
Rona.

I will approach Martin Hepworth whose grandfather was Arthur, Lewis' youngest brother.
I assume you read the article in the summer Journal.

I am trying to trace any descendants of Lewis Hepworth who had a printing and publishing business in Tunbridge Wells, Lewis Hepworth & Co. Ltd. at the turn of the century. I know of all his children from the 1901 census, one of whom was my grandfather, who was killed in WW1. I believe Lewis died in 1908, but what happened to the rest of the family?

Please can anyone tell me anything about the Bopeep area of Pembury as my grandmother (Fanny Martin) was born there in 1877? Her mother, Harriett (nee Cheesman) looked after the chapel. Fanny had an older brother, Edmund, who emigrated to Canada and a younger sister, Emily, born in 1881. Does anyone know anything of their descendents?

hi can any one help in searching for gesseys in tunbridge wells,they used to have a greengrocers in castle street about 1910ish,looking for any info and pictures of my great great grandparents,many thanks lisa{gessey]

Our Secretary looked at the Kellys Directory for 1905/06 at Tunbridge Wells library. He discovered that Robert Buchanan Marriott MA was curate at Holy Trinity Church in Tunbridge Wells and lived at 7 Calverley Park Crescent, Tunbridge Wells. In addition he suggested that more information might be available from the Lambeth Palace library (see also http://www.crockford.org.uk)

I am hoping someone can help me with the name of a Parish Church in Tunbridge Wells please.
August 7 1905 - George Ernest LUCAS married Mabel Louise BADCOCK.
Officating curate was Robert B MARRIOTT.

Hello from Australia,
Do you have a register of people who are researching families from Tunbridge Wells?

My great great grandparents William and Sarah Wilson were from Tunbridge Wells. Their children, approximate years of birth and probable marriage partners were
Mary Ann, 1836, James Smith
Laura, 1838, Henry Elwig
Thomas, 1840, Charlotte
Frederick, 1847, Martha
Henry 1847, Frances
Emily, 1850, Charles Corcoran (my great grandparents)
Alice, 1855, Hemsley

I would love to make contact with anyone else researching this family, so that we can share information. My email address is clanmcgregor@bigpond.com.

Yours sincerely,
Heather McGregor

Hello Australia,
As you may have seen on our Member's Interests page there is only one member who is researching the name Wilson (but in the Brighton area). However, hopefully, someone will read your message and make contact. Good luck!

where would we get history of our family who lived in robertsbridge and had connections with the original blacksmiths and forge awaiting your reply

I would suggest you contact the Sussex FHS. Robertsbridge doesn't come into our 'area'