Workhouse Guestbook 2002
This is an excellent insight into the work house and its funtion in the day to day lives of the less fortunate. I am studying the Marriott Family history and have read this site thoroughly from whats new to the bottom of the list Excellent work, very helpful, quite an eye opener. keep up this excellent workColin Marriott <colinmarriott@hotmail.com>
Leicester, UK - 2002-12-31 00:08
I have commented previously on what a great site this is, so I'll just add that - Anyone with connections with Rotherhithe, London (prev Surrey), previously known as Redriff - There's a new history website at http://rotherhithe.vze.com that might be of interest. Thanks Les
Les <jg26@iname.com>
UK - 2002-12-26 19:06
Peter, Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May your valued efforts in providing and developing this site continue in 2003.
Howard Wingfield
Stoke Poges, Bucks. UK - 2002-12-23 14:12
thanz for all ur help on this site, my performing arts group ar putting on a play all about Sudbury workhouse and ths site has offered so much information thanz again
sarah <suffolklass@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-12-15 10:43
boring
kerry <->
worcs, uk UK - 2002-12-12 10:28
I enjoyed looking at your website. It was very informative and helped me a great deal on my school project. I can easily see that you have put a tremendous effort and time into creating such a wonderful site. I thank you. Keep up the good work. ^^
Amber
Victoria, B.C. Canada - 2002-12-11 01:13
Great site. What an eye opener! my G/G/Grandfather was listed(1901 Census) as an inmate at St Pancras Workhouse. Dose anyone know how to access St Pancras records of its inmates about 1901?
Clive Bond <cbond@ozemail.com.au>
Brisbane, Australia - 2002-12-06 06:58
Fantastic site! Invaluable resource as I have chosen Workhouses as my assignment for my Victorian Values course. Well done!
Sara Willard
N W Essex UK - 2002-12-03 22:16
Fantastic site, informative and well-designed. A pleasure to browse.
Gill Cooper
UK - 2002-12-02 21:43
Excellent site with plenty of information. Thank you for providing a great site and for all of your hard work. Best wishes. Phil www.shopsinripon.co.uk
Phil <phil@shopsinripon.co.uk>
Ripon, North Yorkshire UK - 2002-12-01 22:53
I am very interested in this aspect of history. Thank you for taking time to make such an informative and interesting site.
Barbara Enfield-Patterson <DrRNTeacher@aol.com>
Norman, Oklahoma USA - 2002-11-30 04:48
Peter, thank you for making your extensive research and hard work available to others - an absolutely amazing site. Congratulations.
Lenore Frost
Essendon, Victoria Australia - 2002-11-28 05:30
Thanks Peter for this fantastic site. Has brought me many memories, of growing up at "Tarvin". My parents being the Master and Matron. The residents and staff being my good friends.
Sadey Gift Guy <patspets@island.net>
Sidney, B.C. Canada - 2002-11-26 04:29
I thought that this was a very interesting and useful site that really did tell me everything I needed to know about workhouses. Good use of other people to help.
Nathan <AliDaveMaxNat@ aol.com>
UK - 2002-11-25 16:09
Hi, I am very interested in social history and I work in a Psychiatric institution.Very good site and worth a visit.Thank you for the site. Hugh
Hugh Kelly <Hugokelly@hotmail.com>
Enniscorthy, Wexford Ireland - 2002-11-22 21:06
One of my ancestors died (of General Debility) in The Poorhouse, Motherwell, in March 1902. However, Motherwell doesn't appear in your list as such, nor does it appear under Linlithgow - which is also in Lanarkshire. bob(mc)
Bob McWhinnie <mcwhinnie@blueyonder.co.uk>
Bristol, Sth. Glos. UK - 2002-11-22 17:02
This site is amazing if you are studying social policy at uni. i am currently writing an essay on the workhouse and found this site a great help. Thanks
Gemma Willis <231733@swan.ac.uk>
UK - 2002-11-22 12:13
I found this to be an amazing site. My Great Grandfather James McNulty died in the Barnhill Poorhouse Glasgow in 1909, he was 56years old. I would be grateful for any information about him or his family. Thank you
Jane Young <jeanka@tinyworld.co.uk>
Stirling, Scotland UK - 2002-11-22 11:40
I found this to be an amazing site. My Great Grandfather James McNulty died in the Barnhill Poorhouse Glasgow in 1909, he was 56years old. I would be grateful for any information about him or his family. Thank you
Jane Young <jeanka@tinyworld.co.>
Stirling, Scotland UK - 2002-11-22 11:30
As a schoolboy in the late 20s I was a member of the local church choir and I have vivid memories of the choir visiting the local workhouse in Southern Grove, Mile End. London. The inmates sat on benches around the sides of a large room; the men dressed in thick grey herring-bone suits, the woman in long dark dresses with big shawls draped around their shoulders. I hope our singing brought some light into their lives, the poor souls certainly needed it. I recall seeing the men picking up cigarette ends in the local streets but Mile End was so poor that I doubt if their pickings were very rich!
Lawrence O'Brien <lawrence.obrien@btinternet.com>
Cambridge, UK - 2002-11-21 18:55
Well done Workhouse!
M. Knap
DE - 2002-11-18 21:01
please leave this site for me i don reach am
guymen <mugu@mugu.com>
UK - 2002-11-17 08:55
Your site was recommended on the Birmingham mailing list. I'm glad I checked it out, it's facinating to see how things were. My grandfather and his sister were in Aston Union in Birmingham before being sent to Canada by Middlemore Homes in 1910 (a fact that came to light almost 50 years after they died ). Thank you very much.
Catherine <catherine.west@ns.sympatico.ca>
Nova Scotia Canada - 2002-11-17 02:42
One day all sites will be as good as this...maybe.
Max Bailey <max.bailey@ntlworld.com>
Nottingham, UK - 2002-11-13 11:37
Hello Peter Your work is remarkable, very professional, and full of an affective atmosphere. I'm happy for the opportunity to visit this page. Congratulations. I am a public policy teacher in a Master and PhD Program of Development in my University and this precious findig will be very useful for us.
Marcos A F Ferreira <marcospoa@uol.com.br>
Santa Cruz do Sul, RS BR - 2002-11-13 03:54
Just happened across your site and was very interested I was born at Prestonkirk (East Lothian) and brought up at Buchan Combination (Maud) from 1942 thru 1965 My parents were Superintendant & Matron at both
John A Buchanan <johnabuchanan@btinternet.com>
Aberdeen, UK - 2002-11-12 22:34
This site helped me SO much on my History Fair project. Its really intresting. Thx!!
Miranda <just_wing_it@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-11-12 14:42
It's a huge subject so glad you could provide some clarification. Cheers!
J. Yorke
Barnet, Herts, UK - 2002-11-12 13:48
Hi I am only 14 and i found your site really interesting and it has helped me a lot with my history essay. Thanx
Kat
UK - 2002-11-10 13:50
My Mother was in a Workhouse in the Stroud area of Gloucester in 1933 her name was Dorothy May Mills she was born 12/08/1920 is there is any one out there who can remember that name ..please contact me.. Thanks LINDA...
Linda Hughes <linda@lhughes24.freeserve.co.uk>
shrewsbury, shropshire UK - 2002-11-07 20:36
I signed this guestbook many years ago, after finding this site, and finding how interesting it was. I think I read it non stop for a week. This week, I discovered that both my great grandparents met whilst in the Bedminster Union Workhouse around 1851. IT kind of puts a different twist on the information. The photos and information, really mean a lot to me, thanks!
Nikki
UK - 2002-11-07 02:20
A fascinating site of an appalling period in history that should not be forgotten. A pity that times and events change but not necessarily for the better. If one cares to look beyond their comfort level at the hardships and deprivations that some people face in the present day she/he would see the same type of atrocities perpetuated in the name of "kindness".
Gail Strongman O'Brien <GSOB@qldnet.com.au>
Upper Coomera, Queensland Australia - 2002-11-07 01:18
GAY MENS KEEP OFFOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
GAY MAN <GAY MAN@MUGU.COM>
LOME, LOME TOGO - 2002-11-04 20:25
What an excellent site - thanks for your hard work. May I link to your site from my school's History department site?
D.Humphreys <dhumphreysathotmaildotcom>
London, London England - 2002-11-03 06:26
This is an excellent and informative site.
D. Weber <geo.ohlin@worldnet.att.net>
chicago, Illinois USA - 2002-11-01 20:26
I had an essay to write on the irish workhouses during the famine and it helped me a lot. thanks?
CAROLE JUGE <CAROLEJUGE@VOILA.fr>
vichy, france france - 2002-11-01 15:30
LOVE THE SITE WILL HELP ME WITH MY HISTORY COURSEWORK. MY TEACHER CUTMORE WILL BE IMPRESSED. THANKX PETER I OWE YOU ONE
Dave <dave@hotmail.com>
Redditch, UK - 2002-10-31 13:25
I think this site is very good and interesting. It has helped me with ideas for coursework. Thank you.
Shayra <visionaryorb@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-10-27 18:39
Congratulations, what an interesting site. I live near a town in Bucks that had an old workhouse which was converted into a hospital for the elderly. I can remember one relation who refused to be admitted as a patient because she still remembered the building as 'the workhouse'. I am now studying History at degree level and I found all your info very helpful. Thank you
redkite <redkite48@msn.com>
oxford, oxon UK - 2002-10-26 15:55
This site rocks!
job <ubet@hotmail.com>
Worthington, MN UK - 2002-10-23 15:03
I have been on this site for hours. I have been looking for information to help me with a project. Loved the tour, memories, Irish workhouses etc, etc. thank you for putting in the time and effort to share your knowledge with us!
Blossom <maureentorpey@hotmail.com>
Poole, Dorset. UK - 2002-10-22 22:55
Congratulations on your site - what an accomplishment. I used it as part of my research on homelessness for a University course.
Warren Poole <wapoole@rogers.com>
Toronto, Ontario Canada - 2002-10-22 12:29
This site has been very useful for me for completing my master's thesis on English poor Laws. Especially acts concerning poor laws are unique. Nowadays I am looking for pictures relating to anti-poor movements or illustrations made in the newspapers at that time. But I could not find yet. Thanks again.
Onur <kovanci@politics.ankara.edu.tr>
UK - 2002-10-22 10:30
i am from st asaph i workd ther as a clener now i am in arzona
amanda houlston <azb96@aol.com>
phonix, az UK - 2002-10-22 01:16
GREAT SITE, I WORK IN WHAT USE TO BE THE BASFORD WORKHOUSE, FEELS STRANGE LOOKING AT THE OLD BUILINGS NOW.
catherine <MUPPET@hobgolinlbc.freeserve.co.uk>
NOTTINGHAM, UK - 2002-10-18 20:08
intriguing site. thankyou for the insight, i'll never look at the nottingham city hospital in the same way...
ben <i_dont_wanta_be@hotmail.com>
nottingham, uk - 2002-10-16 16:49
I am looking for any information for a Workhouse which was situated of Pike Law Road Scapegoat Hill known as the Golcar Workhouse,
Andrew Culloden <AndrewCulloden@aol.com>
UK - 2002-10-16 16:17
a great site, i like it very much, you've done a fine job, sar, utterly smashing - BOY FOR SALE!!!!
Edward
UoW, Coventry, UK - 2002-10-15 17:19
A fascinating website. I came across it while looking for info on Walton Hospita1, Liverpool. I'm so sorry to read about the loss of your Dad. Dave
Dave Wood <scouserdave@btinternet.com>
Luton, formerly Liverpool, Beds UK - 2002-10-15 10:01
what a fastinating site, l started looking at it just to get some pictures for my daughters school project, but ended up reading nearly all of it.I started my nursing career as nurse in the now demolised Mickleover uttoxeter road hospital for the elderly which used to be a Workhouse. A lot of patients could remember when it used to be a workhouse, and none of them were intially pleased to know there were being admitted in to it.Hopefully there was no comparison to how it used to be.I can vividly remember the terrible ammonia smell in some places that no amount of cleaning cold get rid of.
anna powell <anna@powell1960.fsnet.co.uk>
Derby, UK - 2002-10-14 17:31
Peter what a wonderful site . My great great grandfather died in the workhouse in Scariff County Clare Ireland about 1868 so it was great to find all the information to add to my research. keep up the good work.From M.E.Carroll New Zealand.
margaret Carroll QSM <margaret.carroll@xtra.co.nz>
Ngaruawahia, New Zealand. - 2002-10-13 06:28
GUYMEN KEEP OFF.I DON THROW HERE.
EZE MUGU <ezemugu@yahoo.com>
NY, NY US - 2002-10-12 12:15
i am studying workhouses at my school in Lutterworth and i found your website very useful and it has been a great help to my coursework thank u!
Rita relish
UK - 2002-10-10 11:44
We are currently studying Social policy and the development of the welfare state. We found your site very informative and useful. Tierney, Leanne, Richard, Kerry, Carly, Vikki and Lesley.
Wyke College Students
Hull, East Riding UK - 2002-10-10 11:17
My grandmother was born in Stanton Lacy Workhouse in 1857 and aia have been privaliged to view the records of her mothers hardship through curtesy of the mormon church. Lovely to see more publication on the web. Many Thanks
Sylvia Ormond <@xtra.co.nz>
Auckland, New Zealand - 2002-10-08 23:36
Thank goodness we are not living in those times, but I have learnt more through this site the hardships that our descendents had to endure to reach the stage of prosperity we can now enjoy.
Allan Barton <aa.barton@xtra.co.nz>
Wellington, North Island New Zealand - 2002-10-07 17:51
My father was born at Frome Work house in 1920. Has anyone any info on this place?? regards Jenny
Jenny Izzard <jennyizz@bigpond.com.au>
Townsville, Queensland Australia - 2002-10-07 06:52
Thank you for the very interesting "Workhouse Tour".
Robert Sewell <robertsewellca@yahoo.co.uk>
St. Catharines, Ontario Canada - 2002-10-06 02:20
Your site is a marvellous achievement -- Congratulations!!! I am a part of a group now living in the Idiot's Ward and we are putting together plans for a range of uses that will lead to the buildings being renovated and reoccupied. I look forward to studying the site in more detail and being in contact with you.
Patrick Lydon <p.lydon@camphill.ie>
Callan, Kilkenny Ireland - 2002-10-04 21:44
As you can see, I'm still recommending your site! I've enjoyed looking at all the new Irish info. Great stuff!
Gill Thompson <g.thompson37@ntlworld.com>
Worthing, UK - 2002-10-04 19:41
Gill sent me ....... And what a great site she recommended !
Karen Hill <shys07572@blueyonder.co.uk>
Sheffield, UK - 2002-10-03 23:17
This is such a wonderful site. Thank you so much. It is so nice when someone shares so much information with others. I especially loved the Workhouse Memories and the inforamtion on Ireland.
Kathleen Bartlett <KathleenBartlett>
Lake Isabella, California, Kern County USA - 2002-10-03 21:56
This is such a wonderful site. Thank you so much. It is so nice when someone shares so much information with others. I especially loved the Workhouse Memories and the information on Ireland.
Kathleen Bartlett <KathleenBartlett@prodigy.net>
Lake IsaBella, Kern County, California USA - 2002-10-03 21:51
Gill advised me to visit your site which I found to be very helpful, still trying to establish whether or not my G.G.Grandfather was a resident of Bourne Workhouse.
Len Watkins <Lenwat@shaw.ca>
Victoria, B.C Canada - 2002-10-02 23:53
1 October 2002 Peter: You have done a magnificent job of showing us just what Work House life was like. As an added bonus, I found a long missing relative in the Bakewell, Derbyshire listing of 1881! Regards, Edward Barker
Edward Barker <edward@edwardbarker.com>
Owen Sound, Ontario Canada - 2002-10-01 22:44
I can remember studying a lot of this material at a-level, I wish i'd known about this site then! A nice collection of photographs too!
Will
UK - 2002-10-01 12:33
An absolutely fantastic website. I spent all day at work today looking at it instead of doing my work!!! Thanks. This is how it should be done.
Charles G. Guerra <cguerra713@yahoo.com>
Houston, TX USA - 2002-10-01 00:46
I THOUGHT THIS SITE WAS VERY BASH FULL AND REMARKBLE WELL DESIGNED. I would like to thankyou for such a truely wounderfull website. Yours Gary
Gary Levy <gary87@jamoz.freeserve.co.uk>
london, UK - 2002-09-30 08:43
Francis Richard Bath, my grandfather, was an "imbecile attendant" in the Bath Union in 1908-1910. Does anybody have thoughts on the role of workhouses in the care of "imbeciles'"? How was the term defined/? What were the duties of an "attendant'? Where might I get more information?
David Bath <dhbath@dircon.co.uk>
Peterborough, Cambridgeshire UK - 2002-09-29 11:19
thought it was gr8.
kayly <kaz_i@talk21.com>
UK - 2002-09-26 08:46
hi I think this website is great .my whole school looks at it.I thinkthe whole workhouse info is great
laura +emmie <hi@hotmail.com>
london, dulwich UK - 2002-09-24 08:53
This site is ok as far as sites go... it doesn't have any weed!
Smoky Mcpot <smokymcpot@hotmail.com>
New Yoik, Dallas US - 2002-09-24 08:52
This is a fascinating site. Several of my ancestors lived in Docking Union, Norfolk. I've been reading Kate's Story by Billy Hopkins and that gave me a real fascination (if thats the right word) to find out more about the lives of my ancestors, to see how they lived and suffered. The page about Docking says that the "Inmates" section will be added too soon - I can't wait to see what information you provide. Keep up the good work!
Liz <angel110429790@aol.com>
Channel Islands, UK - 2002-09-22 18:51
Trying to find out any info about a workhouse/hospital that is now currently called Lincoln Grange at Lincoln Hill in Ironbridge, Telford Shropshire, and is now a Nursing Home and NHS offices.Any info would do, can't find anything on the internet as yet. Thanks very much
Melanie Eccles <ecclesmels@hotmail.com>
Ironbridge, Shropshire UK - 2002-09-20 11:02
What an excellent site. Two of my ancestors died in the workhouses: Tewkesbury and Birmingham. I have found such a tremendous wealth of information here and I now understand their lives much better. I will certainly return to the site and urge members of my family to visit it as well. Thank you.
Bonnie Bell <bjbell@sympatico.ca>
Toronto, Canada - 2002-09-19 15:42
Really interesting site, especially the Warehouse Life section. I'll be back! Any chance of adding 1881 Census data to the Leith Poorhouses site?
Brian McKay <breenmck@yahoo.com>
Dalgety Bay, Fife UK - 2002-09-15 14:54
Brilliant site. Looked up Mile End Old Town Workhouse/infirmary where family members spent some time at the beginning of the last century, was amazed to see the building still standing! WELL DONE PETER
viv
Bedfordshire UK - 2002-09-13 14:14
I think there should be more about the Andover Workhouse Scandal
Spanswick
hampshire UK - 2002-09-07 14:39
Your website really helped me with my History Coursework. Thankyou
Karen Spanswick
Hampshire UK - 2002-09-07 14:33
Hi, my grandparents on my mothers side spent a good deal of time in Cambridgeshire workhouses. My aunt was born in Whittlesey union. My great grand mother died in Wisbech union. My grand mother died in Kings Lynn union and is buried in a paupers grave. Your page has assisted me in understanding the workhouse culture. And I feel that those of us who had the benefit of that special bedspread, the khaki one with the sleeves in it, have a slight chance of understanding. Thank you many regards Ted
Edwin C Bowring <tedandkath@btinternet.com>
Warrington, Cheshire UK - 2002-09-07 09:50
Thank you for a most use full web site.my grand perants had a long history with workhouses, they met in Hull workhouse(as staff)married and went on to be Master and Matron at Market Bosworth, Lutterworth and Market Harborough workhouses between 1928 and 1963 when they retired. I have found you website a brilliant resourse.
Andy Mockett <admockett@aol.com>
barwell, leicestershire UK - 2002-09-06 11:34
What an outstanding site! Very nice work indeed.
Gil Halverson
UK - 2002-09-01 00:41
My father always told me that my grandmother was born in Bristol Workhouse in 1902, and was delivered by WG Grace (the cricketer). Any ideas how I can verify this?
Lesley Giddins <lgiddins@hotmail.com>
Manchester, UK - 2002-08-31 21:30
As the Grandson of a former workhouse Master & Matron I think your site is excellent & would be willing to help your research with material I posess Indeed Granny who was Mrs Winnifred Martin got awarded The MBE in 1939 for her services to the workhouses.
Stephen C Martin <steve.martin@vauxhall.co.uk>
Chester, Cheshire UK - 2002-08-30 13:44
Your website is excellent - loads of info especially to those of us who are researching our family trees. I discovered some of my ancestors living (& dying) in the Barnhill Poorhouse, Glasgow, so it's nice to know a bit more about life in the poorhouse, and to see a photo of the actual poorhouse itself. Keep up the good work!
Catherine Parker <catherine.parker2@ntlworld.com>
Glasgow, UK - 2002-08-25 12:09
Thankyou for such a brilliant website, as a postgraduate student in social history I am always so pleased to find resources such as this. I have also just found that my great great great grandfather was in the Birmingham Union Workhouse in 1881 and he must have been strong as an ox because he was the ripe old age of 84! Im sure I will be back again soon !
Lucy Evans <e_lucy@hotmail.com>
Birmingham, UK - 2002-08-23 20:51
HI I have enjoyed my vist to this site esp the Glossop Workhouse I intend to put a link to my workhouse page on my site if that is OK Cheers Ivan
Ivan Bell <ivan_bell@dsl.pipex.com>
Glossop, Derbyshire UK - 2002-08-21 17:19
ABEG COMOT YOUR HAND
BHGDFGHJK <wwxd@yahoo.com>
BIAFRA, BIAFRA BIAFRA - 2002-08-20 10:31
This site was very useful in our assignment it was very thorough with a great range of pictures! Thanks a heap
nicolee & samantha <chicky_10laird@hotmail.com>
northam, wa australia - 2002-08-19 04:37
Thank you so much for all your efforts in setting up this tremendous site. Loved it! I'll be back many times, I'm sure.
H Bolichowski
Canada - 2002-08-16 17:17
does anyone know if there any pre-1866 records for deaths for stepney union workhouse
paul phillips <parpkp@aol.com>
UK - 2002-08-16 10:46
Thankyou so much, your site has saved me! I'm doing a piece of history coursework for my GCSE on Ringwood Workhouse. It has been a really useful resource to me! Thanx again
Lisa Sanderson <Coolisa667@aol.com>
Ringwood, Hampshire UK - 2002-08-14 13:20
I visited the site following my visit to the NT's Southwell Workhouse. An extremely interesting, comprehensive and very professional site, and easy to navigate. It must have been a massive undertaking. Congratulations and Thank YOu.
Anthony Williams
London, England UK - 2002-08-11 16:32
A wonderfully informative site. However, for anyone who is interested, Scotland had a different system! We did not have workhouses but poorhouses. This was simply because the ability to work prevented people from obtaining any form of poor relief at all therefore only (generally)the young old and infirm gained entry to the poorhouse.
Sylvia Borthwick <sylvia@canmore100freeserve.co.uk>
Dunfermline, Fife Scotland - 2002-08-09 19:48
Have just discovered that my X3great Grandmother died in workhouse at Aylsham so found your web site really fascinating and usefull.Thanks.
BARBARA <michael@longitude.freeserve.co.uk>
UK - 2002-08-09 18:51
This is a thoroughly informative, well-constructed and useful site: much kudos to you for assembling it. Thre are some fascinating stories on this board, too. My grandfather, his three siblings(all under 10) and his father were all admitted to Shoreditch Workhouse in 1911 and dispersed by the authorities to various homes and infirmaries from there - this site's been a great help in tracking them down, and it was amazing to find pictures of the workhouse as it must have been when they were there. Thanks, Peter! Clary
Clary
UK - 2002-08-07 22:02
Join Prophet Samson Ayorinde, at the ANOINTING NIGHT, National Stadium, Lagos-Nigeria for your miracle. The lame walk, blind see, deaf hear and sickness is gone. 9th August,2002. 8pm till dawn.The Lord Bless you. You can reach him on :234-1-2885361, 234-1-7730514 AND 234-1-4715178. OR email: webic@infoweb.abs.net
Wole Ogundalu <larrywhite@hongkong.com>
Ikeja, Lagos Nigeria - 2002-08-02 22:36
Just found your website by chance, as I was interested to find out about workhouses, as I went to college in the former Andover Workhouse. While I was there I heard many tales which made me curious. Your website is excellent, and a joy to browse. I only planned to be online for a short time, but have been here hours, it is really interesting. I agree too, that it is probably one of the best sites on the internet.
Louise Seal <Loullupin@aol.com>
Hants UK - 2002-08-01 22:33
Just the site I have been looking for - but under the entry for the Strand Union in Edmonton, you say no buildings exist, but a whole block exists along Bull Lane, not sure what current use, but you can trace it to the 1890 OS. I am researching this area as it is where I am from, and we had two workhouses, which intrigues me. Ken Titmuss
Ken Titmuss <edmontonken@yahoo.co.uk>
Upper Edmonton, London N18 2HS UK - 2002-07-25 17:21
What an absoloutely wonderful web site ... Thank you so much for providing all this information, I've sat and read with tears just thinking how fortunate I am
Lesley Minshall <lesleyminshall@hotmail.com>
Willenhall, West Mids UK - 2002-07-22 20:04
Brought tears of pain and pleasure. You are clearly gifted and humane.This is social history as it should be recorded, written, in song, in pictures. Thank goodness you couldn't give us the smells, the tastes.A wonderful, wonderful website. Thank you!
Peter Doherty
UK - 2002-07-21 12:21
I am searching for any information on BARLOWS COTTON FACTORY.Westleigh. My great grandfather ANDREW COFFEY born Barlows Cotton Factory 1860.Where would one go to get more information. many thanks. great site by the way
Wendy Fahey (nee Pritchard) <faheyjcw@bigpond.com>
wollongong, nsw australia - 2002-07-20 04:41
Great website. I found a lot of great information I can use. Will return again.
Marjory Martinez <marjory_m_m@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-07-20 04:02
I'll try again as i mucked that one up good an proper :-) thankyou for a brilliant site! I am studying 'Whibley' families, and notice you have a Richard Whibley listed as pauper in Lamberhurst Kent, most of the Kent Whibley's so far are connected to my lot, my grandfather was also called Richard Whibley, most originate from the Brenchley area, and i am convinced somehow that this one is one of our's. thank's again for this great site. Wendy.
Wendy <Wennels@aol.com>
Bristol, UK - 2002-07-17 16:46
The site is really good, i am doing my 'Whibley' family history, and cannot help wondering if the 'Richard Whibley' you have listed as a paupauper is one of our's, as most of them from those area's are connected in some way, so this is fascinating! thankyou.
Wendy Flook (nee Whibley) <Wennels@aol.com>
Bristol, England UK UK - 2002-07-17 16:33
hey peter, gill sent me! how are you? thanks for such a mind blowing experience into the lives of paupers, imbeciles, idiots and prostitutes who swear and mis behave in the bedroom.well done peter. see you next week
Jasmine
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:34
hey peter, gill sent me!
Sian <sian00@hotmail.com>
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:34
I loved it more
Katie
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:32
I loved it more
Katie
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:32
i loved it!
miranda
bournemouth, dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:29
A triumph!Bold yet subtle, educational yet fun.
Katie
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-07-17 14:28
An extremely interesting site. Congratulations.
JUNE BRIGHT <ljb@the-docks.fsnet.co.uk>
Bridgwater, Somerset UK - 2002-07-16 14:25
Congratulations on a remarkable resource. Comprhensive would be an understatement! You have even flushed out Gilbert Harding at Hereford!!
Alec Whitfield <alecwhitfield@lineone.net>
Dilwyn, Hereford UK - 2002-07-13 20:49
A very interesting site and loads of information, I helped remove the Petworth one back in 1959 when I was lorry driving, a lot of it is under the concrete at Spiro Gills in Pulborough.you must have done a lot of research and did a great job.
Dennis Robson <poprob@lineone.net>
Pulborough, West Sussex UK - 2002-07-07 20:44
great site - intersting info about the sussex workhouses and may help me further in finding out about the people of dial post and shipley for my website http://dialpost.tripod.com/
debi lintott-robson <dialpost.westsussex@btinternet.com>
UK - 2002-07-07 20:24
Great site spent hours on it, first site i go on every time, so interesting and hilariosly funny!
Christian <ChristianSpursini@hotmail.com>
Tokyo, Japan - 2002-07-05 11:24
superb!!!! i found the answers to my essay. Thanks a lot
Rob <Rob2000@hotmail.com>
manhattan USA - 2002-07-05 11:20
My first visit to your site. Excellent. Looked only at Rochdale but will be back again. I will let you have a copy of an 1875 print of "Rochdale Union Workhouse" I have.
Sandra Burge
UK - 2002-07-03 20:21
An excellent site. I live in the Dunmow workhouse in the old infirmary. The last picture in the section ans was astonished at the amount of info on the site. Great.
Simon Mardell <simonmardell@yahoo.co.uk>
dunmow, essex UK - 2002-07-03 00:47
Great site! We came across it accidentally while searching for "Euros". If you wish to visit our site, we would love to see you. Please use the above link, or our euro coins site:- www.eurocoins.co.uk
Lawrence Chard <lc@24carat.co.uk>
Blackpool, Lancashire UK - 2002-06-29 13:27
Brilliant compendium of information. I hope to be able to incorporate this into my teaching programme next year. One of the most enterprising and sites I've come across in terms of range of material and ideas. Thank you.
Dr Michael Winstanley <m.winstanley@lancaster.ac.uk>
Lancaster, UK - 2002-06-28 15:14
A very useful website, I used it to find out about the workhouse and certain people to specificaly look into their lives
Alan <riggsalan@eggbuckland.plym.sch.uk>
Plymouth, England UK - 2002-06-21 10:59
Thanks you for a great site. My parents met when both were working in the Dover workhouse, then they were at Guildford (1928-1934)- I was born 1931. We kept in touch with many inmates of the Guildford workhouse until its closure in 1947/48.
Pamela Morris-Kennedy <pamelamm@bigpond.com.au>
Canberra, ACT Australia - 2002-06-21 04:54
Great site! I used it as a History resource (I'm doing a history project on the Liverpool workhouse) although I can't copy most pictures, for my project. The information was great! Thanx
Sarah
Liverpool, England UK - 2002-06-19 18:08
Fantastic site! Anyone have more info on Bishops Stortford W.house 1881-91 and Colchester 1861-81? Gt gt Grandparents were Master and Mistress there. Also Mile End 1881-91. Gt grandparents on other side were inmates there!
Karen Over <KOvernf2@aol.com>
London, England UK - 2002-06-19 11:19
Your site gets better and better. The Welsh researcher might be interested in Steven King and John Stewart's "The History of the Poor Law in Wales: Under-Researched, Full of Potential" in _Archives_, vol. xxvi, no. 105, Ocyober 2001 Dr. Andrea Tanner
Andrea Tanner <tannea@gosh.nhs.uk>
London, UK - 2002-06-19 10:14
Dear Guyman how are you today, i hope your doing fine .I want to remeid you that man of the work has entered .
Mack David <mack_daddy123tg@yahoo.com>
Lagos, Lagos Nigreia - 2002-06-18 12:26
Peter, thank you very much for a very well put together web site. It has helped me very much complete an assignment on 'The Welfare State', it was a very helpful site and gave me lots more information than i needed but i had to read through it all as i got more and more interested in it. Thanks once again!
Steve Marsh <steve_m48@hotmail.com>
Worksop, Nottinghamshire UK - 2002-06-16 21:43
I am making a very quick positive comment about this site. Discovered it last night while looking for information about the Union Workhouse in the District of Thanet, Sub District Minster, in the County of Kent. One of my great grandfathers was born there in 1877. This particular branch of the tree I have only just tapped into. It's wonderful to find information like this at your finger tips. Am looking forward to reading more.
Barbara Waud <eremenda@yahoo.ca>
Woodstock, Ontario Canada - 2002-06-16 13:02
A fine site, and what a labour of love. I found you from a link on the Newham Message Board. A remarkable research effort. Well done.
Dr James Briggs <james@briggs13.fsnet.co.uk>
Bristol BS9 3RU, UK - 2002-06-13 17:37
have been researching my family history. just found out that several ancestors died in the workhouse here in cornwall. it beciomes more of a reality when attached to your family. what awful places they must have been. many thanks for the insight into these buildings. i found it both fascinating and disturbing at the same time.
Karen James <courtney_lawrence @lineone.net>
UK - 2002-06-10 21:08
G'day Just found your list again have new Email address as above. Trying to find relatives of DRAPER George b. 1824 Rushden and at some time he moved to Lincoln was there on the 1881 Census. A girl in USA is looking for Benjamin Paterson DRAPER If anyone in Northants could help it would be appreciated. Keep up the good work on your site. Best Wishes Bridget.
Bridget (DRAPER) WILKINSON <bridget.wilkinson@bigpond.com>
SOUTHEND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA - 2002-06-10 01:19
As it seems that your website is by far the most comprehensive I could find on the history of workhouses, I thought I'd forward my request. I am a researcher currently working on a TV production for BBC Wales called "History Hunters", a programme which follows members of the public as they try to solve a pre-set 'history trail' in various areas within Wales. As part of a wider story on H.M.Stanley (another famous son of C19 workhouse culture), we are looking firstly for archive of St.Asaph workhouse, or if this is not available, then archive showing conditions within workhouses circa 1860 (which is roughly when Stanley ran away from his incarceration at St.Asaph) or as near to 1860 as possible. Of course, I will also try Denbighshire Archives to see what they have got, but I think you would know (before anyone else) of a visually effective piece of archive that could bring across the reality of everyday life at a workhouse. I would appreciate your advice and comments. Yours sincerely, Euros Wyn.
Euros Wyn <euros@fflic.com>
Cardiff, Cardiff UK - 2002-06-06 15:54
As it seems that your website is by far the most comprehensive I could find on the history of workhouses, I thought I'd forward my request. I am a researcher currently working on a TV production for BBC Wales called "History Hunters", a programme which follows members of the public as they try to solve a pre-set 'history trail' in various areas within Wales. As part of a wider story on H.M.Stanley (another famous son of C19 workhouse culture), we are looking firstly for archive of St.Asaph workhouse, or if this is not available, then archive showing conditions within workhouses circa 1860 (which is roughly when Stanley ran away from his incarceration at St.Asaph) or as near to 1860 as possible. Of course, I will also try Denbighshire Archives to see what they have got, but I think you would know (before anyone else) of a visually effective piece of archive that could bring across the reality of everyday life at a workhouse. I would appreciate your advice and comments. Yours sincerely, Euros Wyn.
Euros Wyn <euros@fflic.com>
Cardiff, Cardiff UK - 2002-06-06 15:53
Hello For anyone interested in the Sheffield Union Workhouse also known as the Fir Vale Workhouse, Fir Vale Institution/Infirmary, City General Hospital and now the Northern General Hospital, a book has recently been published. 'Memories of the Workhouse and Old Hopsital at Fir Vale'. by Lyn Howsam. ISBN 1-901587-22-3 price £4.95. Publisher ALD Design & Print. Available W H Smith and Waterstones or direct from the publisher - enquiries by email to a.lofthouse@btinternet.com. Most of profit goes to St Luke's Hospice Sheffield. It covers the period 1878 - 1967 and there is a varied selection of stories about both patients and staff.
Lyn <lynne@howsam.force9.co.uk>
Sheffield, UK - 2002-06-05 13:51
Well done, Peter. What a great website. Obviously you have put a lot of effort into it. It really gives an insight into what life must have been like in the days of our ancestors. I have traced my ancestors to the Thame area around Shabbington, Ickford, Great Milton, Great Haseley. They sailed to Australia in 1873. All the best.
Peter J. Nelms <nelmsp@lords.com>
Canberra, Australia - 2002-06-03 12:40
What more can I add to the previous comments? WOW! The information on this site is sensational and really puts the meat on the bones of our ancestors. Thank you Peter Kay
Kay Hitchen <kay.hitchen@btinternet.com>
Anglesey, North Wales UK - 2002-05-30 17:50
Just to add to all the other praise - a terrific site, which demonstrates all that's good about the Internet. Thank you for sharing your research
Dawn Adams
UK - 2002-05-30 16:37
this pag is gud
Franz Vergiband
Paris, France - 2002-05-27 08:42
it good
John
washington d.c, Washington USA - 2002-05-27 08:24
Superb site:- highly informative, interesting, extremely well organized and extremely well presented. If there is a "Booker Prize" for websites, this one deserves it, and more. Thanks for a very very well done job.
Bob Cannon <rorscannon@dccnet.com>
Delta, BC Canada - 2002-05-24 05:05
brilliant web site. I have gained some infomation from it as my grandperants where master and matron at the Lutterworth work house( 1932-1953)and my father was born there. Keep it up.
andy mockett <admockett@aol.com>
barwell, leice's UK - 2002-05-23 09:12
About 15 to 20 years ago my father wrote a book about the St Asaph Workhouse entitled "From Workhouse to Hospital" He worked at the hospital (Called HM Stanley Hospital after the explorer who spent part of his early life in the workhouse) from about 1952 to about 1980 or so. The book contains some of the research he did. The photos on the web site are very good.
Michael Parry-Jones <mparry@singnet.com.sg>
Singapore, Singapore - 2002-05-20 01:10
What an interesting website. I actually work in the building which was formerly the Walsall Workhouse and have done so since 1985. I much admired the architecture of the Board of Guardians which unfortunately was in a very poor state when it was sold by the NHS to a private individual about 3 years ago. May I make one correction to your information, the 'new hospital complex' you refer to is the Maternity Wing which was built in 1993/94, I was on the commissioning team and currently occupy an office there, although my area of responsibility includes St.John's Wing (workhouse) where I also once occupied an office.
Julie Watton-Butler <wattonbutler @tiscali.co.uk>
UK - 2002-05-18 17:24
What a fascinating site, well done on your incredible amount of research.
Ginny Sealey
Cornwall UK - 2002-05-13 21:37
I am glad that the Billericay Workhouse entry has sparked lots of memories about other workhouses. Although those of us that grew up at Billericay have memories particular to BILLERICAY and I hope that you will be able to collect a few anecdotes! Geoff Hare.
Godfrey Hare <geoff@hare21.freeserve.co.uk>
Caterham, , Surrey CR3 6HU UK - 2002-05-02 21:23
i would like to say this is a very good home page
jessica <bluespinyaardvark@hotmail.com>
tring, herts UK - 2002-05-01 15:05
Great site Peter, will return later to follow up the lead I have found Bob S
bob strong <strongmb@paradise.net.nz>
Napier, NZ - 2002-04-30 07:23
Hi Peter, Gill sent me! Wonderful site with so much fascinating and much needed information. Hope you are open to a couple of questions? Will be e mailing you. Thanks for all your hard work. Pam
Pam Kolodziej nee Woodford <Mziejwood@aol.com>
Livonia, Michigan US - 2002-04-30 01:47
Hi Peter, Gill sent me! Wonderful site with so much fascinating and much needed information. Hope you are open to a couple of questions? Will be e mailing you. Thanks for all your hard work. Pam
Pam Kolodziej nee Woodford <Mziejwood@aol.com>
Livonia, Michigan US - 2002-04-30 01:43
Hi, Peter, Gill recommended a visit to your website and I'm so glad I followed his advise. Learning about the circumstances of those who needed the workhouses is fascinating. Thanks for all your work in researching and creating this website. I'll be back for many visits.
Jane Tully <janetully@yahoo.com>
Spring Lake Hts., New Jersey USA - 2002-04-29 21:42
Hi Peter, Gill sent me!! Wonderful site. I understand the workhouse better now. Best wishes, Pauline
Pauline Hodkinson <pauline@phodkinson.fsnet.co.uk>
Darwen, Lancashire UK - 2002-04-29 20:08
Peter - A great site, I live near Amersham, and have often thought what a beautiful building the old workhouse (now part of the hospital) is. You've obviously spent hours on this - well done ! Keep it up ! (By the way, Gill sent me !)
Eunice Cubbage <eunice@cubbage.freeserve.co.uk>
High Wycombe, Bucks UK - 2002-04-29 19:36
Hi Peter, Great site you have. I'm going to email you with a problem that you may be able to solve. Alan.
Alan Fairhurst <alan.fairhurst@btinternet.com>
Crewe, Cheshire UK - 2002-04-29 19:28
Have just diecovered your brilliant site! Will study it now and perhaps contribute later on. My gtgtgrdfathr Samule Cobb, a Coachman, died in Hampstead Workhouse in 1856.
Judy Buckley <mnjbuckley@lineone.net>
Maidstone, Kent UK - 2002-04-28 12:55
What a fabulous site! In researching the circumstances of my father's birth, I found from his birth certificate that he was born at 43 Renfrew Road, Kennington in January,1908. I always thought this was his mother's abode (she was in service to a family in Horace Street, South Lambeth)and only recently was informed that this address was the Workhouse. This was quite a surprise, but I feel immensely proud of him that he was able to rise from such humble beginnings to be the war hero and highly regarded professional that he became. It is a testament to the development of the society in which he and I grew up that he could be born illegitimate in a workhouse infirmary in 1908, and die with the recent news in 1965 that I had just gained my degree from Cambridge. His modesty and humility were and still are an example to us all. I will probably never know whether he, or my mother, ever knew of his real birthplace. Thank you for the excellent work that has gone into producing this wonderful site.
Malcolm Crockford <mcrockford@claramail.com>
Farnham, Surrey UK - 2002-04-27 16:52
THIS IS A CLASS SITE AND I REALLY LIKE IT
FLINK <BRNDNWTTRS@AOL.COM>
IRELAND, ARMAGH UK - 2002-04-25 13:32
A site of great interest, so much information. My grandparents were Labourmaster and Labourmistress of the Camberwell Workhouse, Gordon Road at the time of their marriage in 1894. A fact I have only just discovered on obtaining their marriage certificate. Now I need to find out more about this particular Workhouse and my grandparents. A disappointment not to find the 1881 census for this workhouse but so much information has been included a real find for Social History students.
Kathleen Fennell <Kath5686@aol.com>
Middlesex UK - 2002-04-22 01:57
I found the information on this site extremely helpful and useful. I am grateful to the author, its one of the best sites I have visited. From the information given I now know how to look for information on my relative. Thank you.
Kay <k.mackay2@ntlworld.com>
UK - 2002-04-19 18:09
A very interesting site ! shame about the audio clips only being available on the less advanced windows operating system. Will have to go round to a friend who is daft enough to own a PC LOL You will probably guess that I am a MAC user ! seriously though...put the audio up im a mp3 format or failing that Real rm files as .wma files are only available to windows users.
Rycharde Perry <rp2@st-andrews.ac.uk>
St Andrews, Fife Scotland - 2002-04-18 21:28
i feel very emotional about all the inmates, their circumstances and so on.i found my ancesters in govan workhouse.
patricia curran
glasgow, scotland - 2002-04-18 18:22
i find this website and very good and fascinating
noone <none@none/co/uk>
UK - 2002-04-18 10:50
Does any one know where i can find records for Padgate cottage children's home, which was an orphanage of Warrington poor law union then in Lancashire. Thanks for your help Donna
Donna Heaps <donna2323@hotmail.com>
prescot, merseyside UK - 2002-04-17 21:43
Does anybody know where the records of Percy House Isleworth are? I have tried all the usual places. My grandmother and her siblings were all placed in the 'Institute' when very young and one of them died there.
julia hulm <julia.hulm@whsmithnet.co.uk>
wokingham, berks UK - 2002-04-17 17:50
A very impressive and educational website. All the information I could possibly need on the workhouses in preparation for my exams. Thank you very much for your help.
Stuart Broom <stuart.broom@ntlworld.com>
Bournemouth, Dorset UK - 2002-04-17 08:52
simply one of the best sites I have visited. A wealth of information and detail. There is already so much on then site but I look forward to further updates over time. You deserve congratulations for prodcing sucn an excellent site.
paul davison <pjdavison38@aol.com>
dover, kent UK - 2002-04-14 21:30
Reading'Lark Rise to Candleford'recently reminded me that my great-grandmother married out of St Pancras workhouse and I was wondering whether there was a formal system for men to find wives in the institution. The circumstances in the book exactly match the circumstances in which my great grandparents married i.e. he was a widower in need of a wife and one assumes she thought that anything was preferable to life in the workhouse. I know Coram's had a system for people to go and select children to meet their needs, does anybody know about marrying from the workhouse? The book relates to a marriage out of an Oxfordshire workhouse so it seems to have been a common practice.
julia hulm <julia.hulm@whsmithnet.co.uk>
wokingham, UK - 2002-04-14 09:14
a site that has Wigmore School on it a BIG THANKS Donna
Donna <donna2363@hotmail.com>
Ascot, Berks UK - 2002-04-13 14:11
Congratulations Peter, your site deserves every superlative given. A feast of information. Does anyone have any info on Henry Croft, b. abt 1862, the original Pearly King who is reported to have been born in the St Pancras Workhouse. For Cockney ancestors, I recommend the Cockey Museum and Hackneynet sites.
George H Fage <georgefage@aol.com>
Reading, Berks UK - 2002-04-13 10:17
Congratulations Peter, your site deserves every superlative given. A feast of information. Does anyone have any info on Henry Croft, b. abt 1862, the original Pearly King who is reported to have been born in the St Pancras Workhouse. For Cockney ancestors, I recommend the Cockey Museum and Hackneynet sites.
George H Fage <georgefage@aol.com>
Reading, Berks UK - 2002-04-13 10:17
Curiosity, intrigue and the demands of further education led me to your page. I was not disappointed. This is a good use of the World Wide Web!
John Edwards
Leicester, LEICS UK - 2002-04-13 10:08
Hi Congratulations on such a great site, my Grandfather was in the West Derby Union Workhouse, Walton, Liverpool. He was born there, and then I think he moved on to cottage homes maybe. I am eagerley awaiting more info on the site to be able to trace him, as I would dearly like to know my roots. so if anyone has any info on the above workhouse please get in touch. good luck to all in their searches.
gina ellis <gina157@ic24.net>
Runcorn, england UK - 2002-04-13 08:42
Many thanks for your excellent site, which is informative and well organised, as well as having ace pix. One correction to St Pancras, London: Kings Road became St Pancras Way not York Way which is to the east of the King's Cross Railway Lands(and itself used to be called Maiden Lane, which was a polite version of the previous Midden Lane). Does anyone know anything about St Pancras workhouse being used in 1914 for 'enemy aliens' who were interned? My grandfather was interned (as an Austro-Hungarian national) and my father remembered being taken as a small child to visit him there. It may have been more a holding centre/transit camp (tho given the chaos of internment provision in the first year of WW1 that may have lasted some time).
Diana Shelley <philanddiana@unisonfree.net>
London, UK - 2002-04-02 15:16
Thank you for such a wonderful site. My Great grandmother Lydia Gabriel had 5 illegitimate children in the workhouse between 1888 and 1897. I can just imagine the gossip it must have caused in such a small village in Cornwall. She managed to bring them all up by herself which must have been very hard work in those days. Sadly it appears that records for the workhouse in Lanteglos by Camelford no longer remain, I would have loved to have seen any notes written about her!
diana barden <dm_barden@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-03-29 22:37
Got here from an article in FTM. Great site. My GGGG Grandfather Anthony House died in Newbury Workhouse in 1853.
Bob Plumridge <bob.plumridge@virgin.net>
Reading, Berks UK - 2002-03-27 09:50
I was delighted to find my Great Grandmother in the 1881 census at Bideford. That little bit of information prompted a search for other details which have delighted our family. Great site. Thank You..
debra <debra@wild.net.au>
Victoria Australia - 2002-03-25 09:44
I was delighted to find my Great Grandmother in the 1881 census at Bideford. That little bit of information prompted a search for other details which have delighted our family. Great site. Thank You..
debra <debra@wild.net.au>
Victoria Australia - 2002-03-25 09:44
A facinating site. One of my ancestors was born in Belper workhouse, another was a Medical Officer in Basford Union and I worked at the Torridge Hospital in Bideford (formaly Bideford Workhouse), so I am really pleased to find so much information about these places. Thank you for creating the site.
Louise Crackle <louise.crackle@btopenworld.com>
Bideford, N.Devon UK - 2002-03-23 17:07
Thank you, Peter, for sharing your information with me. I have just sat, for how long I know not, staring at the picture of my Dad's bithplace. BINGHAM WORKHOUSE/INFIRMARY (Nottinghamshire). His mother, Lily Hallam, an unmarried servant from Cotgrave, gave birth to Charles Cyril somewhere in there on the 12th September 1908.
Colin Hallam <colinat13@aol.com>
southampton, UK - 2002-03-22 15:17
Excellent site, having had a quick dip into it. Previously researched ancestors in Newport, Isle of Wight workhouse so nice to see the details, especially the extracts from Eden. I have some information on the earlier poorhouses in Starston, pre-1834, part of the Depwade Union, Norfolk which I will try to put together for you.
Rosemary Steer <steer@tiscali.co.uk>
Starston, Norfolk UK - 2002-03-21 00:08
Absolutely brilliant site, thank you! Got the address today from a Family Tree magazine in the library. One of my grandfathers was apparently born in Fulwood, Preston workhouse in 1875 - William Edward Green - mother Alice Green but no father on the birth cert. His father was Thomas Green (deceased) on Williams marriage cert. Have yet to find more information on him. It was great to see the actual building of the Fulwood workhouse and I hope to find the building when I visit Preston later in the year. Thank you! Marion Davis
Marion Davis <Mdavis790@aol.com>
Porthcawl, Bridgend UK - 2002-03-20 20:50
I really enjoyed my first look at your site, Peter. I found it through friendsreunited. Mr Harrison would be proud! I'm looking forward to exploring in more depth. I know of two of my ancestors who ended up in the workhouse, so I'm going to spend some time here.
Gill Thompson <g.thompson37@ntlworld.com>
Worthing, UK - 2002-03-20 19:36
Just found out about this site and it's been an eye-opener. An ancestor in the 1881 Census was an Inmate at the City of London Union (I thought it was a hospital at the time!). Now I'm trying to found out more. Congratulations on such an excellent site.
Mike Stotter <mike_stotter@yahoo.co.uk>
UK - 2002-03-20 15:08
I was born into the workhouse , later called st mary's on huntington road, york in 1932, and was there for the initial start on building the york city hospital. am presently preparing an action filled autobiography
richard herbert oatley <bugsbunny118@btinternet.com>
bordon, hampshire gu35 0xr UK - 2002-03-19 21:42
I was born into the workhouse , later called st mary's on huntington road, york in 1932, and was there for the initial start on building the york city hospital. am presently preparing an action filled autobiography
richard herbert oatley <bugsbunny118@btinternet.com>
bordon, hampshire UK - 2002-03-19 21:40
For anyone with an interest in our social history this must be one of the best sites. I visit often and find something to interest me every time. Thank you for putting it together. Susan Hatton
Susan Hatton <Susan.hatton@tesco.net>
UK - 2002-03-16 17:29
Great site - its obvious that you hav done a large amount of work. Found the address via Family Tree Magazine March 2002. My grandmother May Keen was born in Stratton St Margaret in 1896 to Mary Keen. I had to pass through Stratton on holiday last year and suddenly realised that I might be able to find the workhouse. I found it in the midst of being demolished, one day later would have been too late. So I have pictures of an old stone building with no windows or doors! I hope that this was the building used prior to the 1900 erection - perhaps its the orginal infirmary block? Anyway, its great background - thanks again for your hard work
Gillian Leeper <gillian41157@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-03-13 13:37
Brilliant website! I wish they could all be as good as this. Fascinating information and superb presentation.
Ginny
UK - 2002-03-13 10:15
Brilliant Site. As an A level history student it is brilliant to find such a lot of info in one place. I'm recommending this site to my fellow students. Keep up the hard work!
Viv Criddle <criddles@ntlworld.com>
Bedford UK - 2002-03-10 14:51
Thankyou for a great site, and all the hard work that has gone in to it, I have been very pleased with all I have seen. Thank you again.
Jeannie Gibson <jeangib@aol.uk>
Tamworth , Staffs UK - 2002-03-09 23:27
Brillant page. I am looking for a geat uncle who died in Abingdon workhouse, of TB. After looking through your page I feel I know a little more about what kind of life he must of had. Will revist again
Heidi <neal.evans@ntlworld.com>
Didcot, oxfordshire UK - 2002-03-09 13:13
Great site - thanks for the hard work in putting it together. I have an interest in the Holderness area and the picture of the now demolished Patrington Workhouse was a bonus. I'll be back for another visit soon!
Margaret Oliver <margaretsoliver@hotmail.com>
Aldbrough, East Yorkshire UK - 2002-03-08 22:27
Thanks for the lovely site. I think it's wonderful. I'm looking for a John Wren who was a foundling, haven't found him yet, before 1861, but I'm ever hopeful.Thanks for your hard work in constructing the site Jean Tomlinson
Jean Tomlinson <tomlinsonjean@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-03-08 19:15
a brillant site it was great to see places and reconize whre they were. keep up the good work because it makes fascinating reading.
anne noone
tyldesley, manchester UK - 2002-03-07 21:45
What a wonderful place for information. I have two reasons that I am looking for information on workhouses and Asylums. My GGrandfather is listed in the 1851 census at the Hindley-Pemberton Workhouse as a pauper, age 3. I can find no information on this workhouse. I know he was there until about 9 years old when he was boarder out to a family in Blackrod. Have you ever uncovered any information about this Bolton area workhouse? My other connection is a GGGrandmother who lived her last days at Whittington. I have been able to find information on it. One source tells me all records for the Hindley-Pemberton location were lost? Anyone have any ideas?
Lois Norris Graybill <graybill@totalaccess.net>
Taylor, Texas USA - 2002-03-07 15:19
Excellent website. I find I am working on the site of the Shoreditch Workhouse, Kingsland Road, Hackney, London; I was born on the site of the workhouse in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire and I have a house close to the soon to be opened National Trust Workhouse (opening 13 March 2002) in Southwell, Nottinghamshire.
Robert Throw <robert.throw@chpct.nhs.uk>
UK - 2002-03-07 12:13
excellent website, i dont know what i would of done without it it was very useful and interesting
katie sweeeney
hampshire UK - 2002-03-05 19:33
Wow! What a fantastic site, absolutely the best. Was impressed ith the info on Caistor Workhouse in Lincolnshire. In 1802 my g-g-g- Grandfather, Richard Whitham, went from the old poor-house to run the House od Industry taking his son Robert, who was then 11 years old. It shoud have been a successful wool spinning business providing work for the local un-employed, but they did'nt take to 'industry' and the project was abandoned. Robert succeeded his father when he died in 1840. By this time Robert and Mary his wife being Master and Matron became managers under authority of the guardians. Towards the end of his tenure it became clear Robert and Mary were having problems and they were admonished for slack management and discipline, also mis-use of public supplies. Even so, after his death in 1858 (his wife died in 1856) the guardians passed a resolution in appreciation of his 20 years service. In an obituary, written by a local correspondent it mentions, he never passed a night out of the house and was never more than 30 miles away from home in his life. He was always kind and sympathetic and was happily married for 45 years. I shall keep looking a this site for a long time to come, it is a mine of information.
Mrs Lynden Morris <LynJon@tinyworld.co.uk>
Leeds, West Yorkshire UK - 2002-03-01 18:43
Excellent site. My Great Grandfather, Alfred Lyons, was employed at Lambeth workhouse as a night porter from July 1874 to July 1875, after he had retired from the Metropolitan Police. He was known to the Guardians as he helped maintain order in the out-relief hall whilst a policeman. As a night porter he received a wage of 20 shillings a week plus full emoluments of board lodging and laundry. MA
Mari Ambrose <mari.ambrose@burtonridge.freeserve.co.uk>
Lincoln, UK - 2002-02-23 14:07
This must be one of the best sites I have ever visited. It is often not realised that Workhouses were in business until the Appointed Day for the National Health Service when many became either Hospitals or what was then classified as 'PartIII' accomodation and administered by the local authority.
Bruce Petfield <Bpetfield'aol.com>
Bridlington, East Yorkshire UK - 2002-02-23 12:56
The sheer detail on this website is amazing. My great great great aunt, Rebecca Taylor died in the Spilsby Union Workhouse in 1842. It was excellent to locate some background information about yjis workhouse on your website. Thanks a lot.
David Taylor <w.d.t@btinternet.com>
Winchester, Hampshire UK - 2002-02-22 20:52
What a brilliant site! My great grandfather was clerk to the Mile End Old Town Board of Guardians and was awarded an O.B.E. for his services. I also have a brass plaque inscribed as follows: Presented to Benjamin Catmur Esq. O.B.E. on the occasion of the formation of the Stepney Union as a mark of appreciation by the Staff of the Hamlet of Mile End Old Town Board of Guardians. March 31st 1925. Unfortunately I do not have the gift it was attached to! I have been fascinated by the information on the site and it has increased my knowledge considerably. Thanks Peter, carry on the good work.
Sue Vasis <sue@vasis.fsnet.co.uk>
Wakefield, W. Yorks UK - 2002-02-21 20:11
Great site, I didn`t know that this theme was sooo interesting, and there are quite a few informations to find on this site!!! Very nice!
sehulte <kenoschulte@web.de>
bremen, germany - 2002-02-18 10:19
What a wonderfully presented website - the best I have visited so far. The information and pictures were very moving. I happened upon the site by chance and will recommend it to others. It makes one stop and think. We may have our problems but we dont know how lucky we really are. How tragic that people were treated in such a way when mainly it was not their fault they were down on their luck. I was truly moved. Thank you for all the hard work and committment you have put into the site. It should be highly recommended to schools for history studies. Thank you.
Angela Richards
UK - 2002-02-14 13:25
love history! loved your website! It's a pity there aren't more like it.
Tracy Riley
Salford, Greater Manchester UK - 2002-02-12 16:36
An excellent website: well constructed; easy to use and informative. An invaluable research tool.
Chris Beaver <chris.beaver@nashpartnership.com>
Bath, UK - 2002-02-12 16:20
I found my father had been born in Easthampstead Workhouse Berkshire in 1869 and when I checked your website there he was on the 1881 census Albert Edward Moth pauper 9years I've been trying to find his mother Emily Moth but she seems to have deserted him anyway thanks for a very helpful site.
Paul Moth <MothPaulmoth@aol.com>
Norfolk UK - 2002-02-09 11:02
Thanks for that! The website has helped me complete my A-level coursework. Very well designed etc... thanks again
James <westlondonlion@hotmail.com>
London, Fulham UK - 2002-02-06 17:52
For years one of my 'going to do' things was find out about George Lobley from Crayke, blacksmith, who died in easingwold Workhouse. At least I now have a picture of where he died. A good eassy site.
C Roger Davies <charlesrogerdavies@hotmail .com>
Leeds, UK - 2002-02-05 09:13
This site is really well designed , it has all it needs. This site really helped with my History Asessment. I would also like to comment on the layout of this rich information. The Frames are well designed and the site generally is well designed.
Vladimir Lukyanov <vladimir_lukyanov@hotmail.com>
Beverley, Yorkshire UK - 2002-02-04 20:48
Up to a couple of weeks ago I hadnt even heard of this ancester John Pedder Mackereth. Its turn out my G G grandmother was married twice.JohnP was her 1st husband. He died in the Gateshead Union Workhouse.I found your website and there on the Gateshead page was the workhouse. Anyone know what happened to any one who died there?Would they have been classed as paupers and buried anywhere?.I thought John P was born in Kendal as thats where he got married to my GG grandmother. On the 1881 census he lives in Kendal but it said he was born in Salford. I was born inSalford.I always thought my dads family came from Gateshead.So to find John P who was born in 1852 to be from Salford was a surprise. I then looked through a list of other work houses and found on in Salford. Another surprise the buiding on the picture was a place I worked in for a number of years before geting married. It was called Vickers and Hinchliffe it was a stationary warehouse.It was said to be haunted and I got the feeling many a time that there was something there. It was also a catholic school at one time as well. And it was always cold even in the summer you needed a jumper on lol.
Elaine Todd <ect214@hotmail.com>
Liverpool, UK - 2002-02-04 09:31
Thank you for the infomation on this site, it was helpful in tracking my Grandmother to the Holborn Union Workhouse
Bryan Wiltshire <bryan.wiltshire@btinternet.com>
Basingstoke, Hampshire UK - 2002-02-02 19:15
Peter, thanks so much for all the time and effort you must have put in to this site. Certainly an eye-opener.Thank God we don't have them any more.
Marilyn <gama@tassie.net.au>
Tasmania Australia - 2002-02-02 09:28
very good nice to see your website
christopher <christop2304@aol.com>
crewe, england UK - 2002-02-01 15:09
Very nice. Lots of good information for our debate. I want ot visit a padded cell
Julian Bodescu
UK - 2002-02-01 12:18
An ancestor of mine was listed as being a Poor Law Union Messenger on the 1861 census. On the 1851 census he was listed as a Parish Officer and on the 41 census as a messenger. Can anyone enlighten me as to what his job would have entailed.? Would there possibly be records relating to his work.
Greg Hunter <4Hunters@whsmithnet.co.uk>
UK - 2002-01-26 15:22
A colleague and friend of mine Mr Frank Lofthouse has recently published a book entitled "keepers of the House A Workhouse Saga" which gives a detailed history of the Clitheroe Union Workhouse based upon board of guardian minutes and contemporary newspapers of the time. The Author Mr Frank Lofthouse is the great - great grandson of Mr & Mrs Young Lofthouse who was the first keeper and matron of the Clitheroe Workhouse in a building, which still stands and is currently occupied by Clitheroe Community Hospital. It was the family connection which first gave him the interest in the project and has finally published the book following five years of research and 120 000 words, It is a detailed fly-on-the-wall account of what is was like to be on the breadline in Clitheroe in the middle of the 19th Century. The book details how the decision by the Poor law commissioners to group Lancaster and Yorkshire parishes to form the Clitheroe Union was a recipe for trouble. To begin with, the Yorkshire parishes deeply resented being governed from Clitheroe on the Lancashire side of the Ribble. At the time, paupers were considered to be an urban Lancashire problem and the Yorkshire districts saw no reason why they should be taxed to solve it. For more than 30 years after the Act, the Clitheroe Union defied the Government by refusing to build a new workhouse until the Government issued an ultimatum in 1869. Mr Young Lofthouse and his wife had 11 children while they were in office at the workhouse. Two of the daughters became Assistant Matrons. Abandoned, orphaned or abused children entered the workhouse, only to be claimed by relatives when reaching a working age. Bear in mind that at this time the working age began at around 10 to 11 years of age. Trade in the cotton industry was in a constant state of flux and periodic strikes, fires and mill failures swelled the ever-increasing numbers of those seeking relief. Vagrancy was a growing national problem and the Clitheroe Union suffered particularly badly as accommodation was inadequate and it was possible, by arriving late to be sent to lodging houses to avoid task work. The book also describes unusual inmates, like a lively veteran of the Charge of the Light Brigade and an eccentric mathematician who worked out, among other things that one trillion farthings was £1,041,666,666,666,666. 13s 4d! Lord Clitheroe, whose ancestors feature in the book, wrote the forward reflecting how 'Society in this country now has a kinder and softer face. The Author, born and bred in Clitheroe was educated at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School and qualified as an Architect in 1970. He now lives at Southport, Merseyside, where he help found a successful Practice called Condy & Lofthouse - Chartered Architects who specialise in designing Hospitals, nursing homes, churches etc. Order your personal signed copy of "Keepers Of The House - a workhouse saga" by F.H.Lofthouse and published by Hudson History, of Settle direct from the Author for the special price of £12 plus £2 to cover post and packaging For further information, contact the Author direct on Frank-Lofthouse@condylofthouse.com ISBN 1-903783-10-0
Joe Callow <joe@condylofthouse.com>
Southport, Merseyside UK - 2002-01-24 12:00
this web site has helped me alot, Peter i like this, your goin to go far
big ben <mrben13uk@yahoo.com>
UK - 2002-01-23 14:40
Our you aware of a recent publication by a colleague of mine, Frank Lofthouse, entitled "keepers of the House" this book gives a detailed history of the Clitheroe Union Workhouse based upon board of guardian minutes and contempory newspapers of the time. ISBN 1-903783-10-0
jason maher <condylofthouse@onyx.co.uk>
southport, merseyside UK - 2002-01-22 23:30
Our you aware of a recent publication by a colleague of mine, Frank Lofthouse, entitled "keepers of the House" this book gives a detailed history of the Clitheroe Union Workhouse based upon board of guardian minutes and contempory newspapers of the time. ISBN 1-903783-10-0
jason maher <condylofthouse@onyx.co.uk>
southport, merseyside UK - 2002-01-22 23:28
Peter, I came across your site by pure chance and have been back to it several times since as there is so much to see. A great effort by all concerned and I have recommended it to several researchers who I am in regular contact with.
Doug Reeve <dougreeve@lineone.net>
Tunbridge Wells, Kent UK - 2002-01-22 18:01
We thought that the workhouse tour was informative. It was better than a normal history lesson. We liked being put in the cells all the time. We got sent to the cell for asking more and got stuck in it while visiting. It was a good tour!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Matthew, Oliver + Ricky <N/a>
Kettering, Northants UK - 2002-01-22 10:27
What a wonderful site!! Have just found out my gg grandfather was in the Witney workhouse in 1871, so was elated to see pictures & info on it. Will add this site to my favourites & tell fellow genealogists about it. WELL DONE!
Tracey Hickman <bubblegumberyl@hotmail.com>
UK - 2002-01-21 23:46
Peter, Happened on this by accident. Initial reaction very positive. I e-mailed you briefly on the Oldcastle Workhouse (Co. Meath, Ireland) but am unceretain if successfully. Will be spending more time here.
Alan Mc Millan <amcmillan>
Ireland - 2002-01-21 23:27
A very interesting and informative site. However, despite the section on Scotland, the site is very Anglocentric. Previous to the Union and despite it, the law differed in Scotland, an important variant which needs to b clarified, especially in the Timeline.
Jan Merchant <janmerchant@hotmail.com>
Dundee, UK - 2002-01-21 15:55
Well done. An excelent web site well researched. I now know a little more about where and how some of my ancestors lived.
Dave <dave@arbersearch.fsnet.co.uk>
Orpington, Kent England - 2002-01-21 10:47
The best web site I have visited in a long time. Well done! You have researched your subject and obtained a considerable amount of details from the archives, brought it all together in this excellent and informative site. I am a nurse at Ormskirk Hospital, I have been there since a voluntary worker aged 16 before my training. In recent years the site has been greatly redeveloped but the original workhouse buildings are still there at present. One of your photo's shows the front view from Wigan Road, this houses the pathology labs which are at present, moving to the new site. I just hope the trust does not demolish these buildings, I have heard rumours of a supermarket (community gossip). Keep up the good work.
Val Wall <VAL23464NURSE@aol.com>
Skelmersdale, Lancashire UK - 2002-01-19 00:54
Great site, found it very interesting. My great grandfather and great grandmother were both nurses on the lunatic wards, at the Fishpool Institution Farnworth, Bolton, Lancs. My grandfather was born in the hospital there.
Gordon Davidson <GordDavidson@aol.com>
Stalybridge, Cheshire UK - 2002-01-17 21:45
This is a great website for studing the workhouse. Loads of interesting facts and plenty of pictures. I am using it to help me with my AS course.
Liz <Liz_969@hotmail.com>
Wiltshire UK - 2002-01-15 09:06
Excellent web site. You have done great things here, and have provided information on a topic that those in my country and others would not ordinarily have access to. GREAT JOB!
Phil Cohen <dvrbs@hotmail.com>
Camden, NJ USA - 2002-01-15 02:32
Brilliant! What the web should be...
David Milton Jones <powis@netvision.net.il>
Tel Aviv, Israel - 2002-01-12 20:00
A very good website although a bit boring. We couldn't find out about if all workhouses were the same in the 1900's.
Salem
York, East Yorkshire UK - 2002-01-11 14:58
this website has helped us very much with our history class work
Laura and Rosie
UK - 2002-01-10 09:26
this side is really coooooooooooooool and KESS....bye bye me
KALO
UK - 2002-01-09 11:23
I think it`s a very interesting homepage, I really like it, I`m fascinated ally coooooooooooooool and KESS....bye bye me
KALO
UK - 2002-01-09 11:23
I think it`s a very interesting homepage, I really like it, I`m fascinated of your homepage!
we are from austria and we search infos about the workhouse. it's a very interesting page, because there is a lot of information. WE LOVE THIS PAGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cora & julia
vienna, austria austria - 2002-01-09 11:14
Hi, Found your excellent site by chance whilst researching for Out and About UK Net that I run with author / BBC local radio broadcaster John Pilgrim. Will add a link to your site and maybe review it on air at some stage.
Alan Dansey <oab@awdansey.co.uk>
Dunton, Beds UK - 2002-01-07 01:23
Thank you for your wonderful website. You have put an enormous amount of work into it, and I am sure it will grow and grow. I shall tell my students to drop in, as it brings so much of text to life. Andrea Tanner
Andrea Tanner <bonmot'btopenworld.com>
London, UK - 2002-01-05 16:30
Thank you for all the hard work that must have been taken over this site. Reginald Blackwell was a Poor Law Officer, St. Pauls Cheltenham in 1916 at the time of his marriage, so this site has helped with my Family History.
Maree Davies <familytree@lookingforme.com>
UK - 2002-01-05 12:13
This site was really useful for my university work and I found it really interseting and enjoyable, congratualtions to the creaters!
Katie hall
telford, shropshire UK - 2002-01-03 20:11
For US readers 
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