Workhouse Guestbook 2005
Thanks for visiting The Workhouse web-site at www.workhouses.org.uk.
You are welcome to submit an entry to the guestbook.
To all writers that are looking for listings of relatives in workhouses. My cousin and I were able to order workhouse records on film from The Latter Day Saints library. We both have churches in our cities and the films were ordered in for us. The films stay for a few weeks so you have time to look at them and make photo copies. We found the listings of names, admission dates and discharge dates for our family in the Sevenoakes workhouse. Births and baptisms were included. Our great grandmother entered the workhouse with four children but left with six, so we are left wondering about the tales of abuse being true.Our great grandfather had been killed in an accident leaving her with no way to look after the children. Her generation kept this a secret and our parents generation who have all died, never knew about their parents being in a workhouse or having different fathers. We found this out when researching family history and finding the family listed as paupers and living in the workhouse on the 1891 census.Latter Day Saints libraries have many records that can be searched and if they don't have the films there they can be ordered from the main church library in Utah.
N. Harris <gordandnancy@rogers.com>
Brantford, ontario canada - 2005-12-30 02:56
My husband John Robert Easter was placed into a Children's Home in or around Canning Town, London, Uk for a short while during between the years of 1950 - 1952 but as he has no family around to give him some info, he would like to find out the name of the home and how he could research their records. Does anyone know of a place around the said area where children were put during periods when their parents could not keep them due to illness or other unforeseen reasons. I would be grateful if someone could help in this quest. Thank you
Janet Easter <janeteaster05@aol.com>
Grays, Essex UK - 2005-12-27 14:33
Great info on the old Greenock Asylum/workhouse, now Ravenscraig hospital. I just love this building. Do you know the significance of Bunsion Knowe. I often stand on the top of it and wonder about it's history. I hope when the hospital closes they don't pull this building down and build yet another housing estate, it would be a pity. What do you suppose will happen to the foundation stone and the plaque, I would rather they went to the local musuem than them lying broken? Thanks very!
G.Bovaird <g.bovaird@ntlworld.com>
Greenock, Renfrewshire UK - 2005-12-21 13:28
I have not looked at workhouse records before & was given the address of your web site by Worcester History Centre - I must say that if any questions need to be asked about workhouses you have got all the answers & I could spend hours on this site alone. Thank you so much for all the help your pages have given me. All the very best Phil
Philip Heeks <philheeks@yahoo.co.uk>
Weston-super-Mare, Somerset UK - 2005-12-15 18:07
I am looking for Benjamin Jordan and Rebecca Jordan. They lived in Sculcoates, Hull, Yorkshire. Benjamin Jordan was working has an oil miller labourer, and Rebecca was at home looking after the children. Mary Jane, Sarah Ann, Wiiliam Henry, Thomas, Benjamin and Robert Dennis all of the Jordan house hold. They were around from 1833 upto has far as I can see 1901. If anyone has any information about them could they please email me. With much appreciate. Thank you.
Lisa Perry <lisaperry77@hotmail.co.uk>
Immingham, N.E Lincs UK - 2005-12-07 18:56
I believe that my father and some of his siblings were in a place called NORWOOD SCHOOLS. I have the microfilm numbers for the years I want to search but, since I live in Canada, I wonder if anyone might be able to offer some advice on how this can be done. The surname I'm searching is WATSON in the years between 1919 and 1930. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Teresa <roots4me@rogers.com>
ontario canada - 2005-12-07 12:10
Wow! I've just discovered (from the 1871 census) that my great-great-great grandmother and her 14 year old son were in the Camberwell District Workhouse in 1871, and that my great-great grandmother (aged 4) was in the South Metropolitan District School in Sutton. Your site has given me a real insight into their lives!
Mary Pollington <marypollington@yahoo.com>
Falls Church, Virginia USA - 2005-12-07 04:56
Very informative, organised website. You have obviously done your research and can be very proud of this site. Karen Redhead
Kare Redhead <katie6666@gmail.com>
Durham, UK - 2005-12-05 20:04
Interesting site, from a personal point of view. Not sure how much of a claim to fame it is, but I'm the direct descendant of a founder member of the Board of Guardians of Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow. We have a mounted "Scroll accompanying a presentation" to William Gilbert. If it's any use, I can send you an image. Cheers Michael
Michael Gilbert <michael@lewisgilbert.co.uk>
Wellington, Somerset UK - 2005-12-04 19:22
Gooday..asking for advice on, or a link to a list of 'inmates'of the Withington Workhouse..Manchester..circa 1900..my great grandad was there at that time..and passed away I believe whilst at the workhouse..any help appreciated..Thanks..
Alan Silk <dogsbody9@bigpond.com>
cairns, queensland australia - 2005-12-04 10:23
This was a great site. I needed to find something for my Homework and This site helped me out so much! Thanx alot!!!! ***********I you all much love, love and you me!***********
<weber@umaxforum.com>
New York, NY USA - 2005-12-03 12:57
I am looking for any information on my natural mother Anne Folan who gave birth to me on 11th March 1948 in Hastings Hospital, East Sussex. The record of my birth is recorded in the Hastings Workhouse register which I am led to believe was a common practice. Any information that can further my enquiry is gratefully appreciated.
IAN WILKINSON <imw@puffin.org>
RAYLEIGH, Essex UK - 2005-12-02 23:26
I very much enjoyed reading your site. My father was born in the Brownlow Hill workhouse in Liverpool in the 1920s and my grandfather died there. The workhouse at Brownlow Hill site stood right next to the Liverpool University campus. My own son will attend the university there, hopefully, next year...from workhouse to University in two generations...they would have been proud.
J. Martin <jmartin15@hotmail.com>
liverpool, merseyside UK - 2005-12-02 22:58
There I was, researching Victorian social conditions for my Year 9's essay on A Christmas Carol and lo and behold, if I didn't find a photograph of my former residence at Leyburn North Yorks (taken 2001). The male half of the former Leyburn Workhouse Infirmiary was our home from 1997 - 2003 and when we undertook extensive repairs ourselves to the property I found great pleasure in researching the traditional methods of construction and uncovering former decoration down to the original hand painted border on the walls up the stone stair case. My grandmother born 1902 in Wapping, E London, told me about Workhouses and she would have been turning in her grave if she had known I was living in one! I don't recall having met Peter Higginbotham or him having sought permission to photograph our house however!
Anita Quirk <kwirks@tiscali.co.uk>
Dereham, Norfolk UK - 2005-11-30 23:09
This is an excellent site which I discovered in a feature in the 'Scots Magazine'. It is one that I'll recommend to my social history students. Thank you. Jane George
Jane George <riselaw14@aol.com>
Edinburgh, Midlothian UK - 2005-11-23 18:21
Many thanks for what must be the definitive site on Workhouses. Outstanding in every respect.
F Hand <F.hand @btinternet.com>
UK - 2005-11-23 15:47
Today, thanks to this website, I found my first turning point which of course is key to having a broadbrushstroke knowledge of the 100 year period. Thank you wiht all my heart. Bye bye
marcelle ladier
UK - 2005-11-23 14:18
I love this site found so much about my home city and other parts of Cheshire I have lived in
Tina <jonescats5@aol.com>
liverpool, UK - 2005-11-22 21:40
This a really good website with lots of information. Keep up the good work!!
Kelly
UK - 2005-11-22 17:54
Fantastic web-site. I stumbled across it whilst in another website and looking for no particular reason at the entry for Stow Union Workhouse Chapel in Stowmarket. In my family research, I have yet to come across an ancestor whoo had the unfortunate cicumstance to be an inmate of a workhouse but as a historty buff, soclal history in particular, I will add your site to my favourites and visit often.
Michael Reed <mike.reed@pyv.co.uk>
Tooting, London, UK - 2005-11-22 14:54
Would like some assistance re: Major Lester Girls Home on Walton Road, Liverpool late 1800 - early 1900's please. Traced a Great Aunt there in 1901 aged 15 years... many thanks
Nadine Allen <nadineallen18@hotmail.co.uk>
St Helens, Merseyside UK - 2005-11-22 11:53
Brilliant site. very imformative. Just found one of my ancestors was in Workhouse back in 1800's... what a life! (There but for the grace of God... )
Nadine <nadineallen18@hotmail.co.uk>
St Helens, Merseyside UK - 2005-11-22 11:50
An excellent site thank you. My Grandmother Amelia Evans was a cook at the Pembroke Union Workhouse. Does anyone know where I could get any picture for the period 1895 to1927. Thanks John
John Gaiger <jgaiger@blueyonder.co.uk>
Telford, Shropshire UK - 2005-11-21 14:18
I am looking for an old photo of Lurgan Workhouse and or photos of people at work in the workhouses for a project I am currently involved in. Many thanks Marie
Marie Austin <maustin@cbct.n-i.nhs.uk>
Lurgan, Armagh UK - 2005-11-21 11:55
have post cards of nenagh lovely town. i have a friend there james toohey wondered if he is ok its Gortlandroe in Nenagh Slainte Sheila
Sheila O'Hagan-Jadovich <sojad1@comcast.net>
Avon, Ct USA - 2005-11-21 02:18
hello peter my name is mick i used to work in resettlement unit between 1978 to 1994 i could tell you all few storeys on the units but could you help me to give the address ofall the 22 resettlements units in the country i would like to vistor these places with thanks mike
mr m hollylee <mhollylee@aol.com>
london, bexleyheath kent UK - 2005-11-21 00:00
I have been enthralled by the website and the amount of detail that Peter (and colleagues) have put into it. My great great grandfather died in the Wolverhampton Workhouse in 1911 - which later became the hospital that myself and all four of my children were born in! I am researching The Pickerings and The Beavons and am so glad to have come across this site. Warm wishes to all interested in family history and workhouses and thanks again for such a wonderful site.
Dawn O'Brien <obrien.d@tiscali.co.uk>
Wolverhampton, West Midlands UK - 2005-11-20 22:16
A really informative and well researched work. The social history contained is enormous and the website itself is one of the best I have seen, this truly is in all respects the definitive work on this topic. Well done, every time I visit the site I find something new which makes further reading a must.
Warner Nolan <warner.nolan@ntlworld.com>
Surrey UK - 2005-11-20 21:11
hi pete, im doing my mothers family tree, her name was edna doreen fulford born in plymouth devon in 1921, she was left an orphange in 1925 and put into a home which we believe was devonport dockyard home but on a recent visit to plymouth could find little or no information about this home as we feel it could hold information about my mothers younger life, please could you help thank you for your time. sue
sue duckhouse nee radford <sd004b1873@blueyonder.co.uk>
birmingham, west midlands UK - 2005-11-20 19:18
fantastic site. Beautifully arranged with so much information.Hoping to discover more about my husbands grandmother who died in the workhouse and how her children lived in the cottage homes after being orphaned.I am amazed to find out that she died from Diabetes as my husband has had this for 53 years and did not know that anyone in his family had it before him.
doreen smith <dts117@hotmail.com>
birmingham, west midlands UK - 2005-11-18 23:01
I am seeking information/residents/staff etc. regarding Ampthill Public Assistance Institution, Bedfordshire circa 1938 where I was a foundling resident. I was abandoned, aged approx. 2 weeks in Ampthill in March 1938. Any help would be gratefully received.
ROBERT CHARLES ROWLES <bobrowles@aol.com>
Congresbury, North Somerset UK - 2005-11-18 12:59
I am looking for information on Victorian England child labor.
Sil Zupetha <doughts@aol.com>
Puker, Co USA - 2005-11-17 15:09
I would like to know how I can see records for the Union workhouse, Dover. My great great grandfather James Warboys died there in l896. Any information would be helpful.
Carol Macindoe <carol.macindoe@ntlworld.com>
Waterlooville, Hampshire UK - 2005-11-10 16:14
On 2 August,1849, Mary Ann Stanley gave birth to her son, George (illegitimate) in the Newington Workhouse, Southwark, Surrey. I have many reasons to believe that George was my grandfather, George Reginald Humble, who emigrated to Australia in 1876. Can anyone suggest if/where I could locate a record from the Workhouse indicating the name of the father of baby George?
Marjorie Raven <margeraven@hotmail.com>
Sydney, NSW Australia - 2005-11-08 00:10
I am doing family history and found this site most exceptional in informing me about the workhouse and more in Britain. Well done to all involved in its production.
Margaret Armstrong
Co Durham UK - 2005-11-03 02:35
This site is such a good tool for students. I'm teaching in secondary 2 in a linguistic program and I sent my students on this site so they can better understand Oliver Twist's life. And it worked!
Anne-Lise <annelise_et@hotmail.com>
Québec, Québec Canada - 2005-11-01 01:56
I think my Great-Grandmother may have been an inmate at the WEST HAM UNION WORKHOUSE in Leyton in the early 1900s (possibly up to 1912?) and I wonder if anyone has any inmate listings for this institution? We think my Grandad may even have been born there.
S Higgins <shara_higgins@hotmail.com>
Ely, Cambs UK - 2005-10-29 14:15
MY FATHER WAS BORN IN MADRON WORKHOUSE IN CORNWALL AND I WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT SOME MORE FAMILY HISTORY, OUR SURNAME IS EDDY AND AS FAR AS I AM AWARE ARE OF ZENNOR DECENT. ANYONE WHO CAN SHARE INFORMATION ON ZENNOR OR THE SURNAME EDDY PLEASE CONTACT ME...MY DAD WAS BORN IN 1927 AND HIS MOTHERS NAME WAS VIOLET EDDY OR VIOLET COX (COCKS)?? MY FATHERS NAME COULD BE JOHN OR HARRY AND HE CAME FROM A FAMILY OF 12 CHILDREN. APPRECIATE ANY HELP ANYONE CAN OFFER.
PAULINE EDDY <THE1FLY@HOTMAIL.COM>
MILTON KEYNES, BUCKS UK - 2005-10-29 12:28
G, Day I stumbled across this site while I was researching where I was born. Born at Birch Hill Rochdale in 1963. I never knew the hospital was a ex workhouse. This sight is very informative about workhouses in general
Mark Killey <markk1@iinet.net.au>
Australia - 2005-10-28 10:56
I notice a Sarah Myers listed as a inmate in the 1881 census. How can I find out why she was in there and when she was put in and how long she stayed? Tks
Jack Myers <jmyers@dccnet.com>
Delta, BC Canada - 2005-10-28 05:59
I am trying to get onto the census records for Dr Barnado's, St Ann's, Limehouse, London. Could anyone give me any clue as to how I do this. Many Thanks
Gill Cooper <gilliancooper_2@hotmail.com>
UK - 2005-10-27 22:42
hi looking for any information about the work house in KILLARNEY CO KERRY known as ST COLUMBANUS HOME , people that lived there , grew up in this home. please email me
maureen REILLY <topbird247@yahoo.co.uk>
southampton, hampshire UK - 2005-10-24 12:32
How wonderful! Wish history like this had been taught in the 50s and 60s as it would have made high school much more enjoyable. I found your web site by accident as I was looking up 'Swinton Schools' as my grandfather's daughter had this written beside her name as 'Residence at the time of marriage'. I googled and found your site. Now I'm wondering perhaps if she at the age of 26 was in one of these WorkHouses? Thank you, I shall continue to browse your wonderful site. This truly must be a labor of love. Mrs. Davies.
Mrs. Davies <vdavies14@cogeco.ca>
Kingston, Ontario Canada - 2005-10-23 20:33
My birth certificate says that I was born at Twyford Lodge, Willesden, in 1935. Sounds like a comfortable hotel, I thought, and recently decided to check whether it was still there. Amazed to find that "Twyford Lodge" was a euphemistic way of referring to the Willesden workhouse. Shades of Oliver Twist! I've been bragging about my birth place to my grandchildren ever since. Have also been telling friends about the quite outstanding web site you provide, one which I was delighted to discover once "workhouse" suddenly became more significant to me. I'm pleased to see from the many comments that have been added to the site that I am not alone in appreciating your efforts. Please accept my sincere congratulations.
Leslie Dunkling <LeslieDunkling@aol.com>
Thames Ditton, Surrey UK - 2005-10-23 12:49
Just wanted to extend my warmest wishes to you and thanks on a job well done. Your site provides the most extensive information on this subject and has proved really useful for my essay on Social Reforms. Once again - thankyou (any you will be mentioned in the bibliography!)
Maria Callanan <emteecee1@hotmail.com>
Leicester, Leics UK - 2005-10-22 19:37
hello i am looking for any photo, s of glanford brigg work house all any story of the workhouse from 1925/55 if anyone can help please do let me know great site peter thank you helen
helen pinder <helen_662@hotmail.com>
UK - 2005-10-21 20:24
hello peter this is a great site i am doing my family tree as i found out my farther and his family wear all born in the workhouse in glanford brigg and thay was all there till thay turn 18 if any one has any photos of brigg workhouse can you please let me know as i cart find any thanks helen
helen pinder <helen_662@hotmail.com>
west midlands, UK - 2005-10-18 19:19
my great-great grandmother Charlotte Gayleard died 11th march 1888 in the Liverpool workhouse, Mr.Bichnell was the Master. She was a widow. can any one help me with further infro ?? I have just discovered this site, one of the best, thankyou.
barbara manly <bcmanly@westconnect.com.au>
bacchus marsh, victoria australia - 2005-10-15 22:20
I am trying to obtain a list of inmates of Morda Workhouse Oswestry in 1851 & 1901.Can anyone help or advise?
Barbara Marshall <Muggins348@aol.com>
Chester, Cheshire UK - 2005-10-13 22:11
Where can I obtain a list of inmates of Morda Workhouse Oswestry in 1901?.Trying to confirm whether or not my Grandmother, Rebecca Jones & her sister Elizabeth (Lizzie)could have been living there at or around that time.Can anyone help?
Barbara Marshall <Muggins348@aol.com>
Chester, Cheshire UK - 2005-10-13 07:56
Hi, can anyone advise on how I might obtain a list of inmates of Morda Workhouse, Oswestry in or around 1851.Am trying to confirm whereabouts of my Gt Grandad James Howell at that time.
Barbara. <Muggins348@aol.com>
chester, cheshire UK - 2005-10-11 07:58
Does anyone know the address of Chelsea Workhouse Infirmary? I am looking to find out what used to be at 10 Cale Street, Chelsea. I cannot find 10 on any census, but see that the workhouse was in cale street. i thought maybe no 10 is now where the workhouse was. Any info on the workhouse or Cale Street gratefully recieved.
Jo <jofamilyhistory@supanet.com>
london, london UK - 2005-10-10 15:06
my uncle was born in 1945 in the workhouse in newbury berkshire( it later became sandleford hospital i believe). we are searching for him as he was adopted soon after birth. stories told suggest he was blind or partially sighted.. name at birth was peter a r kingston.. please make contact if you may have any information on peter and where his adoption papers may be held.. thanks Donnax
donna <leadlift@ntlworld.com>
berkshire UK - 2005-10-07 08:20
I happen upon your page looking for lost relatives (sad)my aunt was married to a ralph higginbotham from hamburg arkansas (she was my fathers sister, ,so yeah i pretty much got here by mistake > lots of love and hugs > leslie
leslie(chapman) jackson <rebel_jackson@yahoo.com>
monticello , ar/drew UK - 2005-10-07 04:28
What a great site My brother & I were brought up in workhouses. Our parents were Master & Matron at Holsworthy and Tiverton until the NHS took over in 1948. We then moved to Westbury on Severn where the workhouse had become an 'old peoples home' for Glos CC. I can confirm it has been demolished and a housing estate has been built on the site. We then moved to Lexden & Winstree where Essex CC had taken on St Albrights again as an 'old peoples home' At Lexden the locals called St Albrights 'The Spike' and the papers were marked Inst for delivery being short for Institution. Good website many thanks
Nigel Champken-Woods <ngcw@btinternet.com>
Thame, Oxon UK - 2005-10-05 15:28
Only thanks to you and your briliant pages, i have found my familys ancestors, i can't thank you enough, the whitelock clan, is well and truly on its way. I have been moved so many times, as we all thought we had no past, i've now gone back four generations. if anyone knew any whitelocks, who were born in thomas street, mile end old town, i'd be very grateful. keep up the good work
heather <hevver54@btinternet.com>
bexleyheath, kent UK - 2005-10-03 19:54
An excellent site providing a fascinating view of life in the workhouse. It's difficult to imagine how hard life must have been for these people. I can remember a time before central heating and that seemed bad enough !
Bev <Duckworth>
UK - 2005-10-02 21:55
Thank you for a wonderful resource. I teach local history, and also family history.This site has saved me an awful lot of work and I will be returning to it again and again for pleasure. Thanks again
Julie Aspin <julie.aspin@fsmail.net>
Rishton, Lancs UK - 2005-10-02 12:31
Thank you for such an interesting and useful site-brilliant
Monique
UK - 2005-09-29 10:49
Just to congratulate you on a beautifully presented and fully researched site. I took particular pleasure in the section on the training ships. Thank you for your work.
Brian Smith <brian.smith@wanadoo.fr>
Béziers, l'Hérault France - 2005-09-29 08:41
good site
asha <maga@yahoo.com>
lome, togo UK - 2005-09-28 21:03
My nan & five of her siblings aged between about 3 & 11 were sent to a workhouse or poorhouse around 1911. They lived in Saltburn which is just outside of Invergordon in Scotland. Does anyone have any idea where they would have been sent? would it have been in the local area or further afield? Did poorhouses take in kids who parents just couldn't afford them for a while? These six kids were the "middle" children of the family, there were 16 of them & their parents, George & Annie Mitchell did not go with them. A 2 yr old sister was sent to relatives & the youngest baby would have been born somewhere around this time. They did all return to their family but I don't know how long after. Thanks for any help
Hilary Hill <findingfamily@westnet.com.au>
W Australia - 2005-09-24 13:04
Found your site through Family History Monthly. Very good. Looked at Chichester where my wife came from. Would like to trace my father John Arnell Kenderdine and brothers George and Len in Workhouse in Manchester area. Sorry you are too busy to look, hope someone else might recognise the name! Thanks Peter.
Len Kenderdine <kay.dine@bigpond.net.>
N.S.W. Australia - 2005-09-24 06:44
I noticed that you had a photo of a workhouse in Bloxham under the Banbury heading. I grew up there and my father always told me that he was born in the house in Workhouse Lane that used to be the workhouse. This was called The Woodlands and was further along the lane than the picture you took. Is there any possibility that you photographed the wrong house? Bloxham has a museum and a website that may have more information
Rebecca Crump <rcrump@fergflor.k12.mo.us>
St . Louis, MO USA - 2005-09-21 19:55
Great Site. Read that Holbeck Workhouse became old peoples home 1930. However, I believe it was actually still used for other purposes til at least 1950s. My mother, sister and myself (aged about 8 or 9) were housed there for a while after my father was declared bankrupt. It still had over the entry gate "home for destitute people". I remember feeling great shame everytime I entered and I took great care that none of my schoolfriends knew where I lived. Another contact from your guestbook has kindly offered to send me photos of the small amount of remaining external walls and gate. If anyone else knows the whereabouts of an old photograph that shows the original building, would be grateful to hear.
Jennie O'Donnell <jeodonnell@optusnet.com.au>
Wollongong, NSW Australia - 2005-09-19 12:02
Thank you so much, Peter, for such an informative website. This was the first mention I've found of a workhouse at "Newchurch" in Lancashire, other than in the Parish Register. (I'm assuming it is Newchurch in Rossendale). I'm anxious to learn more about this workhouse during the late 18th century. Wonderful site! Lois in CA
Lois S. Bakar <LSB255@hotmail.com>
Clovis, California U.S.A. - 2005-09-18 20:24
My gg grandfather died in the Bulcamp Union, Suffolk in 1909. Would anyone know if this was just a hospital then and where i would find any details. he was only 42 when he died so i assume he must have been quite ill. any info would be appreicated.
lynne <lmcclcljc@aol.com>
Cardiff, Wales UK - 2005-09-17 18:05
Then & now Photos very good.Very informative site.
nomic
UK - 2005-09-17 17:03
The wealth of information has been a joy to read. It gives me a sense of what it was like at both ends of the spectrum, as Master and as inmate. That's important to me as I had relatives in both positions. My 4th Great Grandfather and Grandmother John & Mary Leathley were Master and Matron of the Holbeck Workhouse. I'm not sure what span of time as yet but I do know from what doucments I have that John was the Assistant Overseer in 1840 and Master in 1853. I'm hoping to find some archives from his tenure there. My 2nd Great Grandmother, Margaret Grundy, was an inmate of the Horncastle Workhouse as was my Great Grandfather (her son), Christopher Grundy. From the records I have I know that they spent 7 years or more there. Thanks for putting such time and effort into this website. Its helped me get a better picture and feel for how some of my relatives lived.
Colin Leathley <leathc@rogers.com>
Canada - 2005-09-17 07:38
Peter, WELL DONE on this site it is very good!!! It has helped me alot on my project for school i hope you carry on making this a better site but I don't think you can because its already great!! Thank you for this opertunaty to see the world through different eyes and thank you for making my projecct a bit more exciting.
bob the fog <bodthefog@aol.com>
norwich, england UK - 2005-09-12 19:06
Fantastic site! I am trying to find info about Stratton St Margaret union workhouse as my grandfather was born there. He was called Albert Edward Morse his mother was Elizabeth Morse a girl of 19 who had been in service in Haydon Wick. Any help appreciated
erica <erica@compassmarine.co.uk>
UK - 2005-09-10 00:14
Nice web site I enjoyed reading. I wish you and your family the best of luck.
Lazova <Troy>
Taupan, Bizykoo USA - 2005-09-09 17:12
I have been recomending the site to some of the people I have met through work
Rulept <Kolora>
USA - 2005-09-06 20:51
Looking for a list of residents for the Dover Union Workhouse, 1901 - 1905. Buckland, Dover, Kent, UK. My grandfather was a Barnardo boy, British Home Child and in this union. Thank you in advance for all information.
Susan <ritterspack@att.net>
US - 2005-09-04 22:22
Peter, excellant job!! My ggrandmother, EMILY PROCTOR(RIC(K)HARDS, along with her children CHARLES, FLORENCE E, ALFRED, KATE , ELLEN, ALICE, ERNEST and my grandmother, CLARA were in KENSINGTON on Marloes Rd.The children were all born in Kensington. I don't believe FLORENCE EMILY PROCTOR ever left England..she was born in 1872. The others were sent to Canada. My ggrandmother, EMILY was terminally ill and believe she died in 1888.The childrens birth certificates said that GEORGE HENRY RICK(H)ARDS was the children's father, but they all used the surname PROCTOR. I would like to find information on Mr. RICKARDS. I have to this date tracked 2 of the sisters plus of course my grandmother, CLARA.
Marilyn Wright <marjohn@atlantic.net>
FL US - 2005-09-01 15:41
great site, looking for any info on the Norwood schools part of the Lambeth workhouse, and the Stearn children that were admitted there between 1917 and 1920
Janine <janinekerec761@hotmail.com>
St. Anns, ON Canada - 2005-09-01 01:22
Peter: Thanks a great deal for your section on the training ships. I'd been puzzling for some time on whatever could have happened to my great grandfather's older brother William Llewellyn in 1881. I knew he was not living with the family at that time, but had no idea where to find him. Thanks to your site, I've not only learned that he was an apprentice on the training ship Indefatigable, but also a great deal about conditions of life for the young boys training there. (William later went on to become a ship captain.) Your site has transformed an unadorned fact into a small window in time. Many thanks for compiling and providing this informative site! Regards, Jonathan Dick Washington, DC
Jonathan Dick <jdtwelve12@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC USA - 2005-08-29 23:40
found your site very usefull as i now live in the converted "blean workhouse"
driver mumu <tataa@yahoo.xom>
arlingtin, tx, us - 2005-08-29 10:16
A fascinating website, so much so I've wasted hours reading it instead of doing the housework! My great great grandfather( James McKune Mitchell) was porter at Merthyr tydfil workhouse and met my gt, gt grandmother(Sarah Ann Vale) a nurse there. They were married 1863 and lived in Primrose Cottage, Union Street.I have a photograph of her in her nurses uniform, she looks quite formidable. Any information on the staff of this institution would be very helpful.
Ann Lewis <cliveelis1@aol.com>
Merthyr Tydfil, Wales UK - 2005-08-28 11:53
What an excellent site, which I came on accidentally while doing some family and social history research. One of my forebears lived in Maud Home, actually looked after the gardens there for many years, so it was great to see the pictures and read about the grounds he cared for.Thank you.
Kath <kath.petrie@tiscali.co.uk>
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire UK - 2005-08-27 11:09
Just been reading the item about the "Cottage Homes" at Padgate Warrington. I remember when I was at school at Oakwood Avenue Warrington (until 1952) that children from the cottage homes used to attend the school. Do you have any information about industrial schools in Manchester? On the 1871 census I came across a relative who was in the school in Burlington Street, now leading to the Library of Manchester University. She came from High Legh in Cheshire and I am curious how she came to be there. Facinating site and a great research aid. Thank you.
Bob Mather <bobmathercw84lz@aol.com>
Northwich, Cheshire UK - 2005-08-26 14:34
My mother Emily HARMAN, was born 31st May 1905 and at the age of 5 in 1910 was taken to Hollymount Convent Tottington under the auspices of the Board of Guardians. there is a Baptismal entry in the Holy Name RC Church in chorlton for a Maria Ivy Bertha Harman who I believe to be my mother as both girls lived at 5, St Leonards Street Chorlton now demolished what I cannot understand is how she came to live at this address for 5 years with supposedly no known parents or relatives did the board of guardians pay for this and board her out, an entry appeared in the thirties in the News of the World asking for any information on any Harmans living at 5, St Leonard Street when I replied I was told the claim had been closed, I have spent thiry years trying to solve this mystery is there anybody out there that could no something or even be related I hope so.
Pam Lane <pam.lane@virgin.net>
Bolton, Greater Manchester UK - 2005-08-20 17:53
I am absolutely enthralled by this website and can spends hours browsing through it. Keep up the good work
avril cleary <cleary1998@aol.com>
north lanarkshire, UK - 2005-08-16 20:54
Thank you, Peter, and all contributors, to this valuable and fascinating website: there's still so much remaining for me to look at! It is through my work as porter to the Brighton General Hospital (1867 Union Workhouse) that I've gained a significant interest in this subject. I'm particularly pleased to have seen your entry to our hospital and the acknowledgement in the bibliography section to the late Sr. Gooch's rewarding and now rare 1980 history. Currently, I'm reading "The Legacy of Rural Guardians", by George Cuttle (W. Heffer & Sons, Ltd., Cambridge, 1934). I consider it quite a find: the author reviews, in detail, the "human aspects of the administration in six Mid-Essex Unions, ... its bearing on physical and mental Health, Housing and Casual Labour ... the change in the nature of the Relief ... personal histories ... growth of the Homeless ... need for the differentiation of Hospitals and Infirmaries ... widespread evidence of Mental Defect ... Vagrancy, Industrial Unemployment and Public Assistance [which] conclude the review." With particular emphasis on developments made since the Local Government Act, 1894, this book is vital reading for those in the study of Braintree, Chelmsford, Billericay, Maldon, Dunmow and Ongar Unions, also with considerable reference to the whole Saffron Walden, West Ham, Romford, Epping, Orsett, Rochford and Colchester areas. Your website has been of incredible use to me in that I can refer to illustrations, histories and map extracts as I learn about workhouses from the pen of Mr. Cuttle! Can anyone tell me anything about Cuttle? He dedicated the book to his wife and wrote with eloquent truthfulness, "the book is not written to advocate any point of view, nor have I been at pains to disguise personal opinion; the value of the book is in the record it presents. The tedious detailing of place and date [his opinion!] is necessary to make plain that this is a record of gradual progress." Although he couldn't claim any practical experience of Poor Law administration, he believed his work would claim consideration in that it was written without "special outlook" (or prejudice). He expressed thanks to his son, Mr. W. L. Cuttle, of Downing College, Cambridge, for his "help of many kinds" in the preparation of the work. My thanks for reading this: with regards and best wishes.
Sam Owen Flowers <act2mn@yahoo.com>
Brighton , East Sussex UK - 2005-08-10 15:00
found your site very usefull as i now live in the converted "blean workhouse" Great stuff, thanks.
tracie anderson <tracieanderson@hotmail.co.uk>
UK - 2005-08-01 20:55
I was born Dennis Retford, Simcoe county Canada, someone on this sight is looking for the RETFORD family.
Dennis Retford <bellashay@iprimus.com.au>
Lismore, N.S.W. Australia - 2005-07-30 08:31
Hello I believe my great-great grandmother and her sister were in the Norwich union workhouse in the 1881 census. They were called Georgina and maria Berry and were born in leeds in 1871 and 1875. Thier mother was from Norwich and was living in york with her second husband at the time.
emma chatonnet- newton <emal@oreka.fr>
normanville, france - 2005-07-26 18:33
An excellent and very informative site. Irish registration districts are based on poor law unions and do not coincide with county boundaries. This is the best site I have found for understanding the area covered by any given district.
Ken Wogan <plu@wogan.info>
Nuneaton, Warks UK - 2005-07-25 11:46
Good information on Ringwood workhouse, we are currently doing Coursework on comparing Ringwood and seeing if it was typical and this helped a lot!
Joe
Ringwood, UK - 2005-07-19 16:46
I believe my mother and uncle as children were admitted into withington workhouse when their father died at 37 yrs leaving 6 children. How can I find details it would probably be around 1910.
Mrs Brenda Postles <bhpost@ntlworld.com>
manchester, lancashire UK - 2005-07-19 15:47
i would like to tract retford family history from salford manchester
earnshaw <will check site>
manchesteruk, manchester UK - 2005-07-14 21:52
My grandparents from Saffron Walden, ESSEX, were sent to Faringdon area in 1916 as part of "war effort". After war were left to own devices and finished up in Faringdon workhouse where my grandmother died (buried in Shellingford Church yard). Three of the children were then shipped to Australia (separately) but Grandfather (Arthur) with William James 10 and George 2.made their way to Castle street , Saffron Walden...that was 1925...WHAT HAPPENED NEXT????
G.W.Goodwin <billg@goodwin0106.fsnet.co.uk>
ASCOT, Berks UK - 2005-07-13 16:44
Hii, thanks for making such a great site! It's been such a great help with my coursewort's been such a great help with my coursework on Ringwood Workhouse! Thanks again lizz x
Lizz Spender <bighairyfreakindeal@hotmail.com>
Ringwood, Hants UK - 2005-07-13 08:21
great site, looking for info on saint marys industrial school, abercromby street glasgow, one of my ancestors, died in this school 1881 aged six years regards emacc
e mccarrick <eileen@mccarrick611.freeserve.co.uk>
chorley, lancs UK - 2005-07-12 20:03
My grandmother was born in a workhouse in Hastings 1918. Does anyone have any ideas on how I can trace information back as she was an orphan and has no family history. Many thanks
Georgina <georgieshere@hotmail.com>
London, UK - 2005-07-11 14:09
I have spent the past hour reading through this website and I am absolutely fascinated! What an amazing resource and impressive collection of information. Thanks for all your hard work.
Christina Garrett
Hertfordshire, UK - 2005-07-10 19:05
I have a family history interest in Highcroft Hall Hospital, Birmingham during 1930-40's. If anyone has information about the history of the institution, census or other lists of inmates and the red/white/blue uniforms they used to wear, please let me know. Thank you.
Geoff <GSHodder@Shaw.ca>
Kelowna, British Columbia Canada - 2005-07-08 04:56
With regard to Conway Workhouse, North Wales, a full length history has been published.
paul johnson
UK - 2005-07-07 11:22
Hi, what a great web site, would love to visit the workhouse & do an overnight vigil, with a few friends.
mandy <boogieondown73@hotymail.com>
stockport, cheshire UK - 2005-06-23 20:29
Fascinating site! Thank you. I grew up close to Hutton Poplar and remember when it was used as a children's home. My great grandfather died in the Islington Institution in 1936 of "Myocardial degeneration following asphyxia due to impaction of piece of meat in larynx while eating."
Ann Walley <ann_walley@hotmail.com>
Essex UK - 2005-06-23 17:02
Thanks a lot for a nice good work!
Elissa <Elissa>
New York, NY USA - 2005-06-22 10:13
I have just found my Gt:Gt:Grandmother (Jane Banks) on the 1861 Census and it states that she was "Superintendent" at the SALFORD UNION WORKHOUSE, Regent Street, Salford. Aged 28. Does anyone know if I can obtain further information and maybe list of Staff etc: at this time in 1861. Please call me at: janice@oakley93.fslife.co.uk. This is a wonderful site and I shall be back to print off information. Any assistance would be appreciated. Thank you.
Janice Oakley <janice@oakley93.fslife.co.uk>
London, Battersea UK - 2005-06-19 20:59
can anybody tell me how to find info about Withington Workhouse Manchester, and entries of death as my husband's gt.gt.gt. grandfather died there- thank you very much
jean Skitt <jean@gjskitt.wanadoo.co.uk>
stockport, cheshire UK - 2005-06-17 16:04
Hi great site I was looking for information on the Holbeck workhouse. I noticed your comments that the buildings have all gone now. The external wall surrounding the building is still there and forms the perimeter boundary to St Lukes School on Beeston Rd.
Steve Dyson <leodisxxx@hotmail.com>
Leeds, UK - 2005-06-13 15:35
I think that your site is really helpfull. I'm 13yrs old and doing workhouses for a school project. i found lots of the info and pictures very usefull. Thank you
Born2boop01 <Born2boop01@aol.com>
North East UK - 2005-06-12 19:51
Does anyone know of anyone who spent time in the Croydon Workhouse, around the time of 1929-1940? Also does anyone know of any support groups/forums for people who are survivors of workhouses, particularly andy groups operating in the Reading Area?
Nicola Thomas <nicola.thomas@hmc.ox.ac.uk>
Oxford, UK - 2005-06-09 15:08
I was born in Warwick House Workhouse in June 1932 I am trying to find obout my earlier life can anyone help me? In approx 1935/36 I was put into care with the Middlesex County Council in Oakland Road, Cricklewood with 11 other children and then at the outbreak of war I was evacuated to Elstow Bedfordshire. June Stillman
June Stillman <june@stillman50.freeserve.co.uk>
London, UK - 2005-06-06 22:05
There's a chance that my Gt Grandfather was raised in Salford workhouse and this site has been great in helping my research not to mention a subject I knew nothing about - Many thanks for your site.
Scott Allan <scott@sallan.f9.co.uk>
Chafford Hundred, Essex UK - 2005-06-06 21:37
Just a note to say thank you for a fascinating site. Great information and resources here.
John Grove <jrg@mvos.co.uk>
Worcester, Worcs UK - 2005-06-02 12:02
I have just recently found out that my grandmother and uncle both died within a month of each other in 1910 in the Leith Poorhouse, Scotland. Can I get information on the cause of their deaths from records? A Great site.
Georgie Ashe <ginay@austarnet.com.au>
Gold Coast, Queensland Australia - 2005-06-01 04:22
Very pleased to find this site. My Dad was sent from Tamworth Workhouse to Middlemore Home in Birmingham. From there he was shipped to New Brunswick, Canada. I didn't see anything about Tamworth Workhouse on your site.
Marilyn Hall <marilynhall@eastlink.ca>
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia Canada - 2005-05-30 22:04
Could anyone give me any information on Holbeach Union Workhouse during the 1800's. I am interest on anything concerning the GOTT families
Roger Stoner <jedstoner@syder6.fsnet.co.uk>
norfolk UK - 2005-05-30 16:35
Two of my ancestors, John PLUMB (born: 1814) and his youngest child Frances (born 1845) were in the Ware Union Workhouse. They went in after the death of Frances PLUMB in 1883 - wife of John and mother of Frances. I am just wondering why the two of them went onto the owrk house and how long they spent in there. Any information greatly received. Yours roz jones
Roz Jones <rhjones19@yahoo.co.uk>
Bath, Somerset UK - 2005-05-25 21:22
Could anyone give me any information on Holbeach Union Workhouse during the 1800's. I am interest on anything concerning the GOTT families
Roger Stoner <jedstoner@syder6.fsnet.co.uk>
norfolk UK - 2005-05-30 16:35
Two of my ancestors, John PLUMB (born: 1814) and his youngest child Frances (born 1845) were in the Ware Union Workhouse. They went in after the death of Frances PLUMB in 1883 - wife of John and mother of Frances. I am just wondering why the two of them went onto the owrk house and how long they spent in there. Any information greatly received. Yours roz jones
Roz Jones <rhjones19@yahoo.co.uk>
Bath, Somerset UK - 2005-05-25 21:22
Great site, i come form PZ but left 12 years ago, i am trying to find information on a Emily Gilbert who lived at the madron workhouse in 1870 with her son Richard, i dont know why hse was there all i know is she left in 1871, if any one knows of any entries with the names listed then could you come back to me Regards Magi
Magi Jilbert-Watkins <magi@devilishpcs.co.uk>
Andover, HANTS UK - 2005-05-25 14:04
I am looking for info on my grandfather Robert Fuller(13) and his brother Sidney(12) who came from ST Pancras Workhouse april 1896 to Belleville ontario Canada . any info would be appreciated
Karla Thompson <windsgeat@sympatico.ca>
Bancroft, Ontario Canada - 2005-04-23 07:06
I came across your site whilst engaged in my personal family history research. One of my great-grandfathers was born in a workhouse, and your site has been invaluable in helping me to discover the whereabouts of other information as well as giving an excellent history of this aspect of our poor law system. You really are to be congratulated on a very interesting and useful website. Many thanks.
Roy Webster <royw@yeovilba213he.fsnet.co.uk>
Yeovil, Somerset UK - 2005-04-21 19:28
A fascinating site...thank you! My g-g-grandfather, William Keeling, was an inmate at Maidenhead Workhouse, Berkshire (1901 Census) and died there in 1906 at the age of 85. I was especially moved by your photos of Maidenhead, allowing me a glimpse into my ancestor's life there. Now, it's on our list of ancestral places to visit in England! I'm so delighted to have found your website -- truly, it's a job well done!
Kay Barritt <billbarritt@charter.net>
Cleveland, Tennessee United States - 2005-04-13 19:23
Thank you for this valuable informative site. I found my Great Great Grandfather was in Bury workhouse 1870's and then it became Fairfield Hospital where my eldest daughter was born in 1962. What a contrast.!! What more can one say. Thanks again. Mel Australia.
Mel <mellomax@hotmail.com>
Australia - 2005-04-13 01:42
Thank you very much for your fantastic website. I'm writing my dissertation about poverty in Glasgow and this has proved very useful for me. Keep up the very good work and congratulations. BRAVO!
H. de La Roche <hdelaroche@hotmail.com>
Paris, France - 2005-04-12 06:51
A great site. i am trying to piece together my orphaned fathers childhood as he rarely spoke of it. He never knew that his Mother died giving birth to him. All this happened in Middlehouse Epsom in 1920. This site has given me an insight into the kind of childhood he may have experienced. I hope to find some records of his childhood. Regards Carl
carl <goddardcl@ozemail.com.au>
campbelltown, nsw australia - 2005-04-06 12:32
Thank you Peter I have just spent some time reading through your wonderful and well researched site. As the founder of the Hollies Children's home reunion group and website www.hollieskids.co.uk I was pleasently surprised, and will be happy to pass a link to my members to enjoy. I would like to have more contact with you on this? Thank you once again on a job well done. Paul
Paul Krawczynski <paul@hollieskids.co.uk>
Ludham, Norfolk UK - 2005-04-05 23:50
An absolutely fantastic site and so interesting. I had no idea that a few of the buildings I see near my home have such a history! I'm going out tonight to take a closer look! I came across this site as I'm hoping to start researching my family history (don't really know where to start!)and got completely engrossed, I've spent most of my day reading every part of it! A lot of the buildings are incredibly beautiful and must be saved, congratulations on all of your hard work and a truly informative and imaginative site.
Rebecca
UK - 2005-04-01 13:41
I found the site so interesting as I have only just discovered my father's half brother was born in St. Georges, Hanover Squart in 1903.
Anne Parsons <parso1@tesco.net>
Verwood, Dorset UK - 2005-03-31 19:25
I am looking for info on my grandfather Robert Fuller(age13) and brother Sidney (age 12)who came from St Pancras England . They were sent over on the ship "SS Scotland" from Liverpool Apr 2 1896 Their destination was "Marchmont Home" in Belleville On Canada arrival around April 12 1896.Any one with any info please dont hesitate to contact me .Thank you Karla (Fuller)Thompson
Karla Tompson <windsgeat@sympatico.ca>
Bancroft, 0N Canada - 2005-03-29 13:22
Looking for any photos of St Cuthberts poorhouse, Edinburgh prior to 1860. Many thanks
Avis McDonald <avis.mcdonald@xtra.co.nz>
Gore, Southland New Zealand - 2005-03-29 10:10
I was so pleased to find this lovely site. Congratulations, it is very well put together. It has also cleared up a mystery that has puzzled me for a while now. My 3xgreat grandmother, Hannah Trusson, was living at Holborn Union Workhouse, Shoreditch at the time of the 1881 census. I found her in 1879 in the Religious Creed for this workhouse and the entry in the "died or discharged" column says: To Highgate. UK - 2005-02-28 15:37
My dad John Wesley Gibbs was born in 1919 and died in 1988. He was an orphan and we have began to trace his family background. We have a postcard sent in April 1921 asking Mrs Scott(his foster parent) to pick him up from Southwell Street. It appears that this was a maternity hospital/workhouse, I would appriciate any information about this place in and around 1921. Many thanks Gloria Hiscox
Gloria Hiscox <glorybe842000@yahoo.com>
Bristol, UK - 2005-02-24 17:49
i am trying to trace my aunt who died in st peters home for girls dalbeth glasgow i gather it was a catholic institution she died in 1930 aged 17
isabella wilson <isabella .wilson@btbroadband>
glasgow, UK - 2005-02-21 13:21
tracing any info on my father William Arthur Bennett born in Bolton , brother Alfred Bennett - worked in local cotton and wool mills - joined the british army became Sergeant- africa - ceylon- india. Need to find information in desperate confusing search. Any help welcome. TY
barbara <success222@shaw.ca>
maple ridge, B.C canada - 2005-02-20 05:18
This site is something I have been looking for a long time. There should be more historical sites like this: in addition to all the interesting facts there are lots of pictures and photos.
Sara
Finland, Europe - 2005-02-18 19:41
This web site is incredible. So much history, so much suffering. Thank you, Peter, for your wonderful work.
Michele Drake <micheledrake@peoplepc.com>
Virginia Beach, VA USA - 2005-02-18 04:14
Hi, Can anyone help me track down a list of inmates at GREENWICH UNION WORKHOUSE in 1871 please. Would be really pleased to receive any info.
Eileen Thicke <ethicke@freenet.co.uk>
Winchester, Hampshire UK - 2005-02-15 16:28
A most interesting site which now leads me on to questions regarding my Great Grandparents. My Great Grandmother Sarah Grace Hannam was a nurse and it appears that she may have worked at the Knaresborough union workhouse, her daughter (my Gran)Annie Hannam was born there in 1893 and her husband died there in 1909, the death was recorded by B Kennell, Master Master, Union Workhouse. I have a photo postcard of my my great Gran Sarah Grace Hannam and it looks like she is standing at the front door of Knaresborough Union Workhouse, it is dated on the back as 1920. Does anyone out there have details of staff or inmates from the period 1893 to 1920 that may help me. Thank you for reading my message. Janette Woodhead
JANETTE WOODHEAD <lifebeganat43@hotmail.com>
Hereford, UK - 2005-02-10 17:49
Very informative site - thanks for all your hard work Peter. My great grandmother gave birth to her first child in Guildford Workhouse, which we only found out after my great uncle died in 1970. The shame & humiliation associated with this event made this a well kept family secret. "Ending up in the poorhouse" was a phrase I heard more than once while growing up - so a very real fear for working class people.
Lesley <lotus296@bigpond.com>
Sydney, NSW Australia - 2005-02-08 22:34
I came across your site by accident and stayed awhile, Only one word describes this site "Fascinating" I now have you on Favourites.
Linda Brackenbury <caolasfarm@fsmail.net>
None, Argyll UK - 2005-02-03 18:28
Trying to find information on my Great Grandma Alice Titman, she was in Birmingham's Dudley Road Workhouse where she gave birth to my Grandad Walter Titman in 1923. Any information for 1923 would be greatly apreciated. Thank you.
Claire Titman <chugo@tiscali.co.uk>
Coventry, West Midlands UK - 2005-02-01 22:24
Thank you very much for your help .i was looking for documents because my pupils are working on child labour in the nineteenth century and through some extracts of Oliver Twist they heard of the famous workhouses and wanted to know more about them so I spent three hours on your work .I must admit I've learned a lot as well.
françoise foucaud < f.foucaud@laposte.net>
ste jammesur sarthe, france UK - 2005-02-01 20:50
From 1963 until 1972 I worked at StMary's Hospital, Etchinghill, near Folkestone in Kent. Before becoming a geriatric hospital, it was the Elham Valley Workhouse. I was wondering if there might still be someone out there who worked at St Mary's at the same time as myself. DAVID PILCHER - davidpilcher@yahoo.com
David Pilcher <davidpilcher@yahoo.com>
East Knoyle, Wiltshire UK - 2005-01-29 11:05
This site has been a wealth of information for my research, thankyou.
Libby Pithers
UK - 2005-01-27 13:34
What a wonderful, informative site. It contains everything anyone could wish to know about life in a workhouse. I wanted to know more about workhouses after finding that an ancestor of mine died in Salford workhouse in the 1850's. I have been able to see plans and photos of the site from the comfort of my home abroad. Thank you!
Jane Osbeldiston
DE - 2005-01-27 12:45
i noticed an entry of some one trying to find information about the surname mcCafferty my mother and grandmother that was there surname my mother was placed in a childrens home in scotland in 1935 and remained there till 1952 her mother married a man by the surname of addams there are 3 more sisters and a brother younger than my mum maybe someone over there in england might have some information on them my mothers brothers name is michael addams he would be about 56 years of age now hoping some one has any information yours sincerely angela dyer
angela mary dyer <burnhot@hotmail.com.au>
sunshine, melbourne australia 3020 - 2005-01-26 11:31
The site is full of the most useful information on the many different aspects of the Reform Acts and there consequences, please keep up the good work.
Michael Boland <m2lboland@blueyonder.co>
Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland UK - 2005-01-20 11:21
My father Walter, and his mother Lucy, were born in Newington Workhouse. Walter had a brother, Henry, whose WW1 record we have where he said his father was Thomas Young - a horsedrawn bus driver. Thomas and Lucy don't appear to have been wedded, on 1901 census he had his own family. How can we find Lucy and Walter's workhouse record? How can we find details of Henry's birth?
Walter LeonardYoung <wal@rosiedene.freeserve.co.uk>
gainsborough, Lincs UK - 2005-01-18 20:35
I found your site when my son needed help with some homework.I remembered that the hospital I trained as a nurse at had originally been a work-house, and I was thrilled to find it on your site.The photographs brought back memories of the nurses residence-my room was in the old part, and was infested with cockroaches (as was most of the hospital in 1982 when I started my training.The hospital I'm referring to is St Andrews at Bromley-by-Bow, nts were wonderful-so warm and friendly.They loved my accent as I was from the North East.Well, thanks for the enjoyable time I've had perusing the site.I'm going to save it so I can keep reading.It's fascinating.I hope other nurses who have done their training there have also found it.Again, thank you.
Trish Chaytor
Eaglescliffe, UK - 2005-01-17 19:02
My distant ancestors(1800s) were sent to a workhouse somewhere in the north east of Suffolk near Reydon or Wangford and I am eager to find out more about them and what was actually accomplished in such places. This entire concept is foreign t my generation, any guidance is welcomed. Thanks from the west coast of Canada.
Peter Dickinson-Starkey <loyalist649@hotmail.com>
North Burnaby, British Columbia Canada. - 2005-01-16 23:04
A fantastic website. I am doing family history research and know that my grandfather was born in the workhouse at Hastings from his birth certificate. This has given me new links to follow in my research and an insight into what the experience was like for my great grandmother in 1902. To have been so desperate that she had to go there to give birth to my grandad. when I see all my family, ( his daughters) and all my cousins, it's very humbling to know where it all started.
julie woodger <ryan@rwoodger.fsnet.co.uk>
kent UK - 2005-01-12 16:52
My Cousin pointed me to your site. My Grandfather, James Brady, was Master of the workhouse in Granard, Co. Longford. As I understand, he lived in Ballihoolivan at one time, and was Master of the workhouse in Granard until re-settling in Coolcor. He had 12 children, 4 of whom are still alive today (my Mom being one of them). I've also found links documenting his presence there, specifically, http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Bluffs/4447/irishbdm.html where he is referenced as a Workhouse Officer. I look forward to browsing your site in greater detail over the coming days.
Kieran <kames_at_optonline_dot_net>
Lindenhurst, NY/Suffolk USA - 2005-01-12 02:50
i was born as bernard garraty in chelsea englan d i am trying to trace family
sean carroll <sparkycat@lycos.co.uk>
UK - 2005-01-11 18:57
I am trying to find details of a fire at Gloucester Union Workhouse Possibly around 1900. My grandfather Robert Rowe was Head Officer Tramp Master on the 1881 Census. He died later after a fire at the workhouse of pneumonia. I would aoppreciate any info. Thanks
Cyril Rowe <cyril_rowe@yahoo.co.uk>
Coventry, w.mids UK - 2005-01-11 15:29
Proved extra useful to me. Found my grandfather and great grandfather in Durham workhouse. Thankyou
Raymond McSorley <raymcsorley@btopenworld.com>
Guildford, Surrey UK - 2005-01-09 23:43
Hi, I'm researching Victorian Workhouses at school at the moment and I have to admit it was quite interesting to look at all the fascinating information on this website. I found out all I needed and have already filled up 3 pages with brief notes just about the daily routines, rules and punishments and how the inmates lived inside the workhouses. Thank you for all the information! ~*~Marta~*~Cristina~*~
Marta.C.S.F <H0tb4b3m4rt4@aol.com>
London, Lambeth UK - 2005-01-09 17:01
For US readers 
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