Edward Green and Eliza Goodman

St. Matthew's Church, Bethnal Green
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Dr Neil Clifton - geograph.org.uk/p/688069

Edward Green (50) Licenced Victualler, Batchelor, son of William Green, Blacksmith, eventually married Eliza Goodman (49) Spinster, by Licence at Christ Church, St George in the East (Christ Church Watney Street), on 12 Jun 1870. They'd already been living together for around 30 years. Neither could read and write and each made their mark with an X. Witnesses were Charles John Osborne and Ann Bellett, Eliza's eldest sister.

Edward and Eliza had already had five lovely daughters: 

1. Eliza Green b. 1841 J Quarter in BETHNAL GREEN Volume 02 Page 63, mother's maiden surname Goodman. (This looks like the child on the 1841 census. Eliza born 1841, does not appear on the census again.) There is a death of an Eliza Green, aged 8 in 1850 M Quarter in BETHNAL GREEN Volume 02 Page 3 that would correspond.
2. Emma Green b. 1847 S Quarter in BETHNAL GREEN Volume 02 Page 16, with mother's maiden surname listed as Goodwin (Close LOL).
3. Mary Ann Green b. 3 Jul 1849, bap. 29 Jul 1849 at St Matthew's, Bethnal Green. This baptism lists their address in Scott Street, Bethnal Green. Found no civil birth registration for Mary Ann. 
4. Sarah Green b. 15 May 1854, bap. 11 Jun at Christ Church, Stepney.
5. Eliza Louisa Green b. 21 Mar 1858 in St George in the East (1858 J Quarter in SAINT GEORGE IN THE EAST Volume 01C Page 413. Mother's maiden surname Goodman), bap. 18 Apr 1858 at Christ Church, Watney Street, Shadwell. (The transcript of the London, Docklands And East End Baptisms says Christ Church, Jamaica Street, Stepney, but that church didn't open until 1877.) Died, aged 13, in 1871 S Quarter in MILE END OLD TOWN Volume 01C Page 361 and was buried on 29 Jul 1871 at the City of London and Tower Hamlets Cemetery.

From his baptism, we discover that Edward Green was born on 28 May 1821 and baptised on 7 Oct 1821 at the church of St George in the East, Cannon Street Road, son of William Green, Brazier and his wife Matilda. 

The records of the 1st and 5th births had already confirmed Eliza's surname as Goodman. The 1851 census, said she was from Braintree, Essex. On her marriage certificate, Eliza lists her father as Thomas Goodman, Carpenter, making her the daughter of Thomas Goodman and Mary Ann Pluck.

There is a record of an Edward Green (18) occupation Cabinet Maker, being indicted for stealing, on the 28th of January 1837, "1 horse-cloth, value 4s., the goods of Robert Campion". He was tried at the Old Bailey on 2 Feb 1837, found guilty and sentenced to one month in Newgate Prison.

In 1841, in Anglesea Street, St Matthew, Bethnal Green, there's a weird census entry of an Edward Green (20), Cabinet Maker, not born in the county and, with him are an Elizabeth (2) and Elizabeth (1 month). This might make sense if the first Elizabeth was 20, but it doesn't look like a mis-transcription. And Elizabeth isn't Eliza. Nevertheless, I'm still pretty sure this is them.

In 1851, living in Scott Street, Bethnal Green, we find Edward Green (32), Cabinet Maker, born in Shoreditch, with Eliza Green (28), born in Braintree, Essex, and daughter Emma Green (3). Where was Mary Ann? 

On Eliza Louisa's baptism in 1858, the family's address was given as Chapel Street, St George in the East, which was later renamed Tait Street. And we know they were already at the The King and Queen public house in 1856.

Chapel Street, St. George in the East was later renamed Tait Street (although the street doesn't exist at all now - current Tait Street is a completely different location). The King and Queen Public House, long since demolished, stood on the corner of Tait Street and Mary Street (marked P.H.) You can clearly see the area referred to as 'a yard in the rear'.

Anyway, it would seem from the newspaper report I've discovered (see below) that Edward Green was the subject of a sting operation, authorised right from the top in Scotland Yard. (If you're going to do something, aim high, eh?)

Fascinating to read dialogue that came straight out of the mouths of these ancestors, even if they do sound, shall we say, a bit on the rough side. :)

Sunday opening isn't even a crime now, but trying to blame Eliza, nooooo ....

From The Morning Chronicle of Monday, November 8, 1858.

SUNDAY IN A PUBLIC HOUSE – ARTS OF THE POLICE

Edward Green, the landlord of the King and Queen public-house, in Chapel Street, St. George’s-in-the-East, appeared at the Thames Police-court, on Saturday, on a police information charged with unlawfully opening his house for the sale of ale, beer and spirituous liquors on Sunday morning last, during the hours prohibited by law.

Richard Blanks, a police-constable, 81 K, stated that he was directed by Mr. Superintendent Howie, of the K division, to detect the defendant, who was in the practice of supplying people with beer and spirits on Sunday, during the whole of the day, while other houses were closed. He went to the house in plain clothes, dressed as a waterman, and was accompanied by Mrs. Randall, the female searcher at the station-house adjoining the Thames Police-court, who was the wife of a police-constable. On reaching the defendant’s house Mrs. Randall knocked at the front door, and waited some time without its being answered, and he said, “Come old lady, we shall not be served with anything here.” The door was then opened by the defendant, who narrowly scrutinised them both, and after looking at the trousers of witness, which were not blue [a laugh], said, “You will do; have what you like,” and directed them to a side door, which was opened, and they were admitted into the house and directed to a yard in the rear, in which was a private bar fitted up. There were 20 men and women in front of the small bar, and they were served with rum, gin, ale, beer, and tobacco. He saw others admitted at the side door, and let out after they were served at the back door. Mrs. Randall asked for two pennyworth of gin and cold water, which was supplied to her. He then called the landlady on one side, and told her she was doing wrong. She said, “What of it?” He then asked for the landlord, and told him what he had seen and he said it was a bad job.

The defendant, in reply to the charge, said that he could not contradict what was said. He was not aware what was done in the house. His wife did it all, and admitted people into the house without his knowledge.

Mr. Yardley: Where was the landlord – the defendant, I mean?

Blanks: He was at the front door. He directed me to the side door.

Mr Yardley: To be sure; you said so before. Don’t tell me, Mr. Green, you were not aware of it. It is a most flagrant case.

Sir Richard Mayne KCB (27 November 1796 – 26 December 1868) was a barrister and the joint first Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, the head of the London Metropolitan Police (1829–1868).

Inspector Hayes, of the K division, said repeated complaints had been made by licenced victuallers and beer shop keepers, who complied with the law, of the practice adopted by the defendant, who stood at the front door to reconnoitre, while persons were admitted at the side door. Mr. Howie, the superintendent, had made a special complaint to Sir Richard Mayne, the Chief Commissioner of Police, and had received his permission to adopt the means of detection used on Sunday morning last. Mr. Howie intended to be present to explain to the magistrate why he adopted the unusual step of allowing a woman to accompany the constable, but was obliged to leave the court to meet the commissioners.

Mr. Yardley: There is no harm in the means adopted to detect the defendant. No trap was laid. Mr. Howie was perfectly justified in doing what he has done. There is nothing illegitimate in the mode of finding out what was going on. I would not convict if a trap had been laid, but it appears there were 20 persons in the house. I shall deviate from the ordinary practice where a first offence has been proved. I generally treat a first offence lightly, but I fine the defendant £3 and costs, because he has broken the law systematically.

The fine was instantly paid.

[£3 in 1858 is equivalent to about £375 in 2020. Source.]

In 1861, at 25, Mary Street (same place: on the corner with Tait Street), St George in the East, were Edward Green (40), Publican, Eliza (38), Emma (13), Mary (12), Sarah (6) and Eliza (3), and Harriet Blundell (12), visitor.

Edward Green died on 22 Jun 1870, aged 50, from liver and kidney disease, just 10 days after he and Eliza married. From this, we can probably deduce that he knew how sick he was and at least cared enough to leave Eliza the means, through marriage, to take over the pub licence and a livelihood.

In 1871, at Tait Street, St George in the East (still the King and Queen pub), were Eliza Green (48), Widow, Licenced Victualler, married daughter, Emma Horn (22), Barmaid, John Horn (23), Plumber, Sarah Green (17), Eliza Green (13), Eliza Thompson (2), granddaughter, Emma Horn (2), granddaughter, Edward J Horn (0), grandson, and Emily R Slade (14), General Servant.

The East London Observer in August 1875 lists Eliza Green as the outgoing licensee at the King and Queen, ending the Green's tenure at this pub. 

In 1881, Eliza was living with her daughter Sarah and her husband, Alfred James Lynch, at the Duke of Norfolk public house in Mile End Old Town. 

Eliza Green, widow of Edward Green, Licenced Victualler, died on 12 Feb 1882 (1882 M Quarter in MILE END OLD TOWN Volume 01C Page 462) at the Duke of Norfolk public house in Mile End Old Town from Chronic Bronchitis. Her death was registered by Alf J Lynch, son-in-law.

Alfred James Lynch and Sarah Green

Duke of Norfolk, Stepney, E1. Image: Ewan Munro Some rights reserved

Alfred James Lynch, son of John Lynch and Ann Wiltshire, married Sarah Green, daughter of Edward Green and Eliza Goodman, at the church of St Thomas that had stood in Arbour Square, Stepney, on 5 Jun 1871. 

Alfred and Sarah Lynch had five children:

1. Alfred Arthur Lynch b. 1873 J Qtr in MILE END Vol 01C Page 513, bap. 15 Jun 1873 at St Thomas, Arbour Square, Stepney
2. Albert William Lynch b. 29 May 1874 S Qtr in MILE END Vol 01C Page 473, bap 5 Jul 1874  at St Thomas, Arbour Square, Stepney
3. George Edward Lynch b. 1876 D Qtr in MILE END Vol 01C Page 588
4. Sarah Eliza Lynch b. 1879 S Qtr in MILE END Vol 01C Page 569
5. Ada Lynch b. 1881 J Qtr in MILE END Vol 01C Page 547

On the baptisms for Alfred Arthur and Albert William, Alfred James' occupation is listed as a Packer.

In 1881, at the Duke of Norfolk, 14 Norfolk Street, Mile End Old Town, we find A J Lynch (29) Licenced Victualler; S Lynch (27) Wife; sons A A Lynch (8), A W Lynch (7), G E Lynch (5), daughter S Lynch (2), E Turner (18) Female General Servant and the widowed mother-in-law, Eliza Green (59).

In 1891, Alfred Lynch (39), Beer & Wine Retailer, Sarah (36) and son Albert (16), a Commercial Clerk, were living in Camberwell, Southwark, London. 

By 1901, they were back at 291, Oxford Street, Mile End Old Town (which, I believe, later became Stepney Way), with Alfred Lynch (49) Laundry Man, Sarah (47), Albert (22), Railway Porter, Ada Lynch (19), Ironer, Emily Lynch (5), Granddaughter, and a Eliza Ellis (20), General Domestic Servant.

Alfred James Lynch died, aged 55, in 1907 J Quarter in MILE END OLD TOWN Volume 01C Page 252.

In 1911, still at 291, Oxford Street, Mile End Old Town, Sarah Lynch (56), Widow, Laundress, with her married daughter, Sarah Pope (32) and grandchildren, Joseph Pope (8), Rosa (2) and May (0).

In 1921, Sarah Lynch (67) Widowed, was living at 12, Oley Place, Stepney, Mile End Old Town, London. At the same address was Sarah E Pope (42) Attendant Ladies Underground Convenience, for Stepney Borough Council; Joseph A Pope (18), Rosa V Pope (12) and May A Pope (11).

There are several death records that may relate to Sarah Lynch.

William Henry Goss and Mary Carter

Photo © Dr Neil Clifton (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Bethnal Green: Church of St Peter and St Thomas

Photo available for reuse under this Creative Commons licence.

William Henry Goss (b. 18 Aug 1821 in Limehouse, Middlesex), bachelor, smith, son of Richard John Goss, Caulker (Richard John Goss and Martha Ayres), married Mary Carter, spinster, who purported her father to be Thomas Carter, Gentleman, at St Peter's, Bethnal Green on 2 Jul 1844. Both gave their address at the time of marriage as 18 Pollard Row, Bethnal Green. Witnesses to their marriage were Chas Price and Sarah Forrester.

William and Mary Goss had one son:

1. William Richard Goss b. 1846 S Quarter in SAINT SAVIOURS UNION SURREY Volume 04 Page 508 and bap. 28 Jun 1846 at Saint Saviour, Southwark (Southwark Cathedral)

The Morning Advertiser of 5 Jun 1847, reports on the  transfer of the licence of The Feathers, Stoney Street, in the district of St Saviours Clink from William Henry Goss to William Till. (Not seen a record for when he took on the pub, but was presumably between 1844 and 1846.) At the end of the street was The Clink prison (Clink Prison Museum) and yes, that's where the nickname clink for prison comes from. "The Liberty of the Clink was an area of London which was exempt for The City’s jurisdiction, meaning it was fertile ground for prostitution, animal baiting and *gasp* theatre." [Source]

The next encounter with William Henry Goss is an advert in the Appeal-Democrat newspaper (published five days a week in Marysville, the county seat of Yuba County - where William's brother Richard John Goss also turns up - located in the Gold Country region of Northern California). As the last record of the brothers in the UK is in around 1849, it seems obvious they arrived during or immediately following the California gold rush.

RHEUMATISM PERMANENTLY CURED BY Dr. W. H. Goss, Who takes pleasure in announcing to the citizens of Maryville that he has located himself on Second St. Bet. D and Maiden Lane, where he is prepared to treat all species of Diseases, on the Reform principle of Medical Practice - Mercury or Minerals never being used, all Medicine prescribed by Dr. G. Being purely vegetable.

    Dr. G's almost unlimited success, for years past, in treating all kinds of Diseases, especially Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Dyspepsia, Inflammation and Chronic Diseases of the Kidneys, Liver, Lungs., etc., justify him in saying the amiable, he can cure them; and to the incurable he can afford relief. Those who are suffering would do well to call and consult him.

    Dr. G. Gives particular attention to all PRIVATE DISEASES, and guarantees cures made in all secondary cases.

    The Doctor would inform those who are suffering from Rheumatism that it is caused by many diseases not known by the practitioners of the Old School, (such as [unreadable], Rheumatism, Bilious, Mercurial Syphilis) all of which I guarantee to cure, on reasonable terms.

    N.B. - Chills and Fever effectually treated.

You've got to hand it to him, the careful wording and marketing are quite brilliant. He's clearly aiming at patients with 'private diseases' (I read venereal and suspect 'secondary cases' means wives who picked it up from philandering husbands), who won't want to admit to being treated and are therefore the least likely to complain if his cures are ineffective. Purely vegetable is a lovely idea, but even those need to be properly made and tested.

In August 1879, an advert appeared in The Colorado Miner (a newspaper published in Georgetown, Clear Creek County, Colorado, from June 30, 1869, to March 11, 1874), which read: "Without Pain to the Patent. The Doctor treats with greatest success Typhoid, Pneumonia, Intermittent, Remittent and Hectic Fever and Fevers of all kinds, with easy and swift cures. DR W. H. GOSS, can be consulted at his parlours in the American House for a short time, OFFICE HOURS, from 9 a.m. To 7 p.m. CONSULTATION FREE."

In 1880, William H. Goss (59) Single (this must be untrue, because he had to have been either married or widowed), Physician from England, was living on Lawrence Street, Denver, Arapahoe (Arapahoe County, Colorado), United States in the household of Lou E Wallace (24) Female, Married and her son Edward Wallace (5). Also living there was Louisa Hockensmith (49) Widowed, from Kentucky (who, 10 years previously had been in Jackson, Missouri. I've nothing to base this on, but a hunch she may be William's girlfriend.)

The final record I've found, which I'm sure relates, is that of the death of William Goss (85) on 9 Aug 1906 in San Francisco, California.

James Alfred Garnett and Mabel Shotter

Pizza Hut on corner of Kingston Crescent and Gamble Road
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Basher Eyre - geograph.org.uk/p/770407

James Alfred Garnett (b. 1881), son of John William Garnett and Margaret Mary Coleborn, married Mabel Shotter (b. 1879), daughter of William Thomas Shotter and Hannah Jane Bussey, at St Mark's church, North End, Portsmouth (demolished in the 1970s) on 27 Apr 1908. The groom was Licence Holder at The Fairy Queen, Grosvenor Street, Southsea at the time of his marriage.

James and Mabel had one daughter:

1. Marjorie Mabel Garnett, b. 28 Feb 1915 (1915 M Qtr in PORTSMOUTH Vol 02B Page 767), bap 1 Apr 1915 at St Mary's Church, Portsea

In 1891, the ten year old James Alfred Garnett had lived at Public House, Stamshaw Road, Portsea (Derby Tavern, 47 Stamshaw Road, Landport), where his father, John William Garnett, was described as a Beer retailer.

In 1901, James Alfred Garnett (19) had been Assistant manager of the Fountain Hotel, London Road, Portsmouth (Fountain, 133 London Road, North End), held by Edward Gardner, Licensed victualler, his uncle.

In 1911, James Alfred Garnett (29) Licensed victualler and Mabel Garnett (31) Assisting in business, were at 90 Kingston Crescent, North End, Portsmouth (The Admirals Head, 90 Kingston Crescent, Landport), now a Pizza Hut. In 1916, James Alfred Garnett of The Admiral's Head, Kingston, Publican, appears on an Exemption Register of Portsmouth Military Tribunals, presumably exempting him from military service in World War I.

James Alfred Garnett of The Queens Hotel, 143 Queen's Road, Gosport, died, aged 55, on 22 Nov 1936 (1936 D Quarter in GOSPORT Volume 02B Page 796), leaving his effects to Mabel Garnett, Widow.

In the 3rd quarter of 1938, Mabel Garnett remarried to Walter John Morgan, widower, of 131 Queen's Road, Gosport, in Portsmouth and, in the same quarter, Marjorie Mabel Garnett married Bernard Connorton, in Gosport.

In 1939, Mabel Morgan and her daughter, Marjorie M Connorton were both living at 26 Lower Farlington Road, Portsmouth, while Walter J Morgan was listed in the household of his son-in-law and daughter, Ina G M Palmer, at 44 Bishop's Way, Andover. (I've been unable to locate Bernard.)

Marjorie M Connorton died, at 25, in 1940 M Quarter in PORTSMOUTH Volume 02B Page 1770. While a death in 1940 might be related to the Second World War, this was too early to be related to The Portsmouth Blitz, during which: "The three major raids took place on August 24th 1940 during the Portsmouth Blitz, January 10th 1941 and March 10th 1941."

Mabel Morgan died, at 68, in 1948 M Qtr in PORTSMOUTH Vol 06B 496.

John Harcus and Selina Patrick

Gillingham Parish Church (St Mary Magdalen)
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © N Chadwick - geograph.org.uk/p/1146460

John Harcus (bap. 15 Jul 1821 at St Mary's, Chatham), son of George Frederick Harcus, Gunner RN, and Martha Buckledee, married Selina Patrick (bap. 26 Oct 1823 at St Mary's, Chatham), daughter of Richard Patrick and Mary Ann Davidson, at Gillingham, St Mary Magdalene on 7 Apr 1844.

John and Selina had six children:

1. Richard John Harcus b. 1845 S Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 05 Page 354, bap. 20 Jul 1845 at St Mary's Church, Chatham 
2. Henry George Harcus b. 1848 S Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 05 Page 398, bap. 15 Oct 1848 at St Mary's Church, Chatham
3. Selina Mary Ann Harcus b. 1850 M Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 05 Page 414, bap. 10 Mar 1850 at St Mary's Church, Chatham
4. Alice Martha Harcus b. 1858 J Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 02A Page 323, bap. 30 May 1858 at St Mary's Church, Chatham, died aged 1 and was buried in the Former St Mary's Burial Ground.
5. John Edward Harcus b. 1860 J Qtr in MEDWAY Vol 02A Page 340
6. George Frederick Harcus b. 1863 M Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 02A Page 418 (reads John Edward, but can't tell where the error occurred.)

In 1851, John Harcus (29) Tailor, Selina Harcus (26), Richard Harcus (5), Henry Harcus (2) and Selina Harcus (1) lived in Whittaker Place, Chatham. Visiting them were Isabella Tennis (29) Seaman's wife and her daughter, Martha Tennis (5). As these are visitors, there's always a chance that they are family, however, there are no other records under the surname 'Tennis', which I think may be a transcription error, but the writing is difficult to discern.

In 1858, in Melvilles Directory, is listed as, "Harcus John, tailor, and Alma beerhouse and concert hall, High street" (Alma, 157 High Street, Chatham).

In 1861, John Harcus (37) Inn Keeper, was at the Red Lion, 110, High Street, Chatham (images), wife Selina (37), Henry (12), Selina (11), John (1), William Holding (21) Innkeeper Assistant and Jane Hills (17) Domestic Servant.

This report is from the Maidstone Telegraph, Rochester and Chatham Gazette, 26 October 1861: Robbery of a Publican. Helen Reed, 23, was on Monday charged on remand, before the county magistrates, with having stolen half a pint of brandy, from the spirit bar of the "Red Lion" public house, Military Road, Chatham, where she was servant. The spirit was accidentally discovered hidden away, by Mrs. Harcus, the landlady, and on the prisoner being taxed with the robbery, she at once confessed that she had taken the brandy. The magistrates committed her for 3 months' hard labour.

John Harcus died on 9 Jul 1868, at 47 (1868 S Quarter in MEDWAY Volume 02A Page 292) and buried in the Former St Mary's Burial Ground, now Town Hall Gardens. (The tombstone was amongst those removed from the Gardens and reinterred, on 5 Aug 1971, in the Borough Cemetery in Maidstone Road Chatham Section.) Probate was granted on 8 May 1869: "The Will of John Harcus late of the "Chest Arms" High Street Chatham in the County of Kent Victualler deceased who died 9 Jul 1868 at the "Chest Arms" aforesaid was proved at the Principal Registry by the oath of Selina Harcus of the "Chest Arms" aforesaid Widow the Relict the sole Executrix".

In 1871, Selina Harcus (47) Licensed Victualler was at the Chest Arms, 55 High Street, Chatham, George (7), daughter Selina Caddy (21), Henry Caddy (24) Shipwright; Lydia Emill (16) and lodgers: William Smith (40) Pensioner from Cork and George Atts (31) Photographer from Germany.

Kellys Directory places Selina Harcus at the Chest Arms in 1874, then from From the Rochester and Chatham Journal and Mid-Kent Advertiser, Saturday, September 2, 1876: "Miscellaneous. The magistrates hear adjourned for some time to take of luncheon. On business being resumed the following persons, who had been convicted of various offences during the year, and his cases had been deferred in consequence, apply for the renewal of their licences. vis. Mrs. Harcus, "Chest Arms," Chatham ..." No idea what the offence was.

In 1881, son John Edward Harcus was the Licensed Victualler at the Dartmouth Arms, 257 High Street, Chatham (image), with widowed mother, Selina Harcus (56), Henrietta Golding (18) Domestic Servant, brother George Frederick (18) Mariner and Mary Ann Drago (23) Visitor, listed as wife of Wm Drago. (William Drago, Shipwright, had married Mary Ann Tester in 1876. One of the witnesses to this marriage was George Vokes, who had also been a witnesses for Henry George Harcus and Susan Alice Tubb in 1872.)

Now reinterred, on 5th August 1971, in the Borough Cemetery in Maidstone Road

Son Henry George Harcus died at 39, in 1887, then son John Edward Harcus died two years later on 12 Jun 1889, at 29 and was also buried at the Former St Mary's Burial Ground, now Town Hall Gardens, on 16 Jun 1889.

In 1891, Selina Harcus (66) widow, was Living on her own means at Pleasant Row, St Margaret, Medway, Kent.

In 1901, Selina Harcus (78) was living in the household of her youngest son, George F Harcus (37) Barge Captain at 18, Cecil Avenue, Strood, Kent, with Charlotte Harcus (34), Richard Harcus (13) and Nellie Harcus (12).

Selina Harcus died, aged 81, at Coburg House, Cliffe Rd, Strood and was buried on 28 May 1904 (1904 J Quarter in STROOD Volume 02A Page 339) at Strood Cemetery, Section K Grave No. 3 (C). 

Strood Cemetery, Cuxton Road
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Marathon - geograph.org.uk/p/3602387

George Daniel Tompson and Alice Oldfield

St Andrew's Church, Whittlesey
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Tiger - geograph.org.uk/p/924937

George Daniel Tompson (b. 1885 in St George in the East, London), son of Dan Tompson and Sarah Jane Baker, married Alice Oldfield (b. 1879 in Whittlesey), daughter of George Oldfield (Licenced Victualler and Blacksmith. Pubs in East Delph were the Anchor, The Three Fishes and the Hare and Hounds, but records don't show which one George Oldfield kept) and Caroline Hemmaway, in the parish of Whittlesey St Andrew, on on 29 Mar 1910.

On 7 March 1908, George Daniel Tompson had sailed from Liverpool, on the Lusitania and arrived in New York, to Ellis Island, on 13 March 1908. The passenger manifest shows the 22 year old bricklayer's intended destination had been Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. However, there's a line through his name, so it looks as if he was refused entry to the United States. Quite when, how and why he ended up in Toronto, Canada instead remains a mystery, but clearly he set himself up there, then returned for his bride.

House on the right 133 Morrison Avenue, Toronto, Canada

After their marriage in Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire in 1910, in 1911, George, with wife Alice, were back in Canada, where, on 25 Apr 1911, Alice gave birth to a stillborn son at 133 Morrison Avenue, Toronto, Canada.

On the 1911 Canadian Census on 1 Jun 1911, living at 133 Morrison Avenue, Toronto, were George Tompson (27), Alice Tompson (32), Richard Oldfield (26), Walter Oldfield (22), Charles Oldfield (19), William Tinkler (26) and Fred Tinkler (26), the last two being boarders. Richard, Walter and Charles Oldfield were all Alice's younger brothers. Richard and Walter were Bricklayers Labourers and Charles a labourer. Alice's three brothers hadn't been in Canada long, as they had been listed on the 1911 United Kingdom census on 2 Apr 1911 in their father's household. Pure speculation, of course, but it would make sense if, having arrived in Toronto around 1908, George Daniel acquired the plot in Earlscourt and built the house at number 133 Morrison Avenue in the intervening years before going back to England to claim his bride once he'd prepared a home for them. The workforce of brickies' labourers turned up a year later and they built the house at 131 Morrison Avenue ready for Dad to move into in 1912. Possibly. Maybe.

George and Alice went on to have at least these children:

1. Stillborn son b. 25 Apr 1911 at 133 Morrison Avenue
2. Daniel George Tompson (Dan) b. 23 May 1912 at 133 Morrison Avenue
3. Ruth Tompson b. 3 Sep 1914 (d. 2008)
4. Richard Tompson (Dick) b. 18 Mar 1916 at 131 Morrison Avenue
5. Charles Gordon Tompson (Chuck) b. 20 Mar 1919
6. Walter Tompson (Wally) b. 11 Mar 1921

In 1921, George Daniel Thompson (36) was living at 124 Hatherley Road, Toronto (which, once more, he may have built) with Alice (41), Daniel George (9), Ruth (6), Richard (5), Charles Gordon (2), and Walter, 2 months.

In 1931, George D Thompson (46) still at 124 Hatherley Rd, with Alice (51), Daniel G (19), Ruth (16), Richard (15) and Charles (12) and Walter (10).

George Daniel Tompson was also listed at 124 Hatherley Road, in the Toronto Centennial City Directory in 1934 and their son, Daniel George, was listed in that directory at that time as a teacher at a York Public School. 

Alice Tompson (90), wife of George Daniel Tompson, died at Riverdale Hospital on Thursday, 26 Jun 1969. The announcement of her death, in the Toronto Star, lists her as the dear mother of Mrs Ruth Blackman, Richard, Walter and the late Daniel and Charles and that they had nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Alice's brother Richard Oldfield was also mentioned by name. Alice was interred at Westminster Memorial Park.

George Daniel Tompson (88), beloved husband of the late Alice Oldfield, died on 16 Aug 1973. His obituary lists his children Ruth Blackman, Richard, Walter; Charles Gordon and Daniel George both pre-deceased and that he was the "loved brother of Ivy, Nellie and Toots" (his three younger sisters: Ivy Maud Tompson, Ellen Hoile Folville Tompson and Amelia Mary Tompson.) 

(Obituaries via Christine Miller of GIN AND GENEALOGY).

Dennis Blackman son of George Blackman and Ada Alice Young, married Ruth Thompson (with an H in her name), in Fairbank, York, Ontario, Canada on 29 Oct 1937. Born Dennis Leslie James Blackman in 1911 D Quarter in READING Volume 02C Page 665 and bap. 15 Oct 1911 at St Luke's Church, Reading, Berkshire, he emigrated to Canada with his parents and older sister, Dorothy Margaret Annie Blackman, sailing on the S/S Ausonia from Southampton, arriving in Quebec, Canada on 14 Jul 1913.

Daniel George Tompson married Dorothy Adeline Bryant on 30 Apr 1938. Daniel George Tompson, Head of Science Dept., York Memorial Collegiate, died suddenly on Friday, 19 Nov 1965 at Humber Memorial Hospital. His obituary mentions two sons, his parents, 1 sister and 2 brothers. Daniel is buried at Westminster Memorial Park. Dorothy died in 2009, at 96.

Charles Gordon Tompson married Irene Mary McQueston (b. 1919), daughter of John McQueston and Annie Holmes, in Toronto on 18 Dec 1940. Sergeant Charles Gordon Tompson (25), B/69674. Mentioned in Despatches. "C" Sqn., 3rd Armd. Recce. [Reconnaissance] Regt., of the Governor General's Horse Guards, R.C.A.C., was killed in Italy on 18 Dec 1944. He is buried at Villanova Canadian War Cemetery, Villanova di Bagnacavallo, Emilia-Romagna, Italy, Plot VI, C, 3. Second World War Book of Remembrance. From his obituary: "Sgt. Charles Gordon Tompson, 25, of the Governor General's Horse Guards, Reconnaissance Unit, was killed in Italy on Dec 18, according to word received [from his wife] the former Irene McQuestion, 522, Delaware Ave. Born in Toronto, Sgt. Tompson attended York Memorial Collegiate. Before enlisting in October 1939, Sgt. Tompson was employed by Timmins and Timmins brokerage firm, a member of the GGHG Reserve Sgt. Tompson trained at Camp Borden and arrived overseas in October 1941. He went to Italy in May of the next year. He saw action at both the Hitler and Gothic Lines. Sgt. Tompson was the son of Mr and Mrs George Tompson, 124 Hatherly Road. Surviving besides his wife and parents are two brothers and one sister; Lieut. Richard, who was wounded at Normandy and had just returned to Canada [as a stretcher case]; Flt. Lt. Walter, stationed at Ceylon, India [now Sri Lanka] and Mrs Ruth Blackman of Toronto. A brother-in-law [Ruth's husband], Sgt. Major Dennis Blackman is stationed in England with GGHG."

It appears that Richard Tompson married his brother Charles' widow, the former Miss Irene Mary McQueston, but [as yet], I've been unable to find a record of the actual marriage. Richard Tompson died peacefully on Sunday, 13 Oct 1996 in his 81st year. Irene Mary Tompson died, at 80, in 1999.

LAC Walter Tompson married Gladys Marion Tulloch (b. 22 Sep 1924), daughter of Walter Edgar Tulloch and Mildred Ann Hermiston, in Blind River, Algoma, Ontario, Canada, on 17 Feb 1942. Gladys Marian Tompson died, aged 90, on Sunday May 3, 2015 and Walter Tompson died on Sunday February 5, 2017, at the age of 95. (Links include bios.)

124 Hatherley Road, Toronto

John Tubb and Mary Anne Harfull

Portsmouth Naval Base - Lion Gate
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Chris Allen - geograph.org.uk/p/7577310
Town gate, now naval entrance way. 1778. The Lion Gate which once stood at the end of Queen Street, Portsea, dismantled in the 19th century and re-erected in present position 1929.

John Tubb (bap. 12 Feb 1816) Seaman, son of William Tubb and Sarah Chard, married Mary Anne Harfull (bap. 11 Aug 1816), daughter of William Harfull and Mary Anne Brine, at St Mary's Church, Portsea on 28 Mar 1838. Witnesses to this marriage were Eliza Harfull and William Tubb.

John and Mary Anne Tubb had nine children:

1. John William Tubb b. 1839 J Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND UNION Volume 07 Page 119, bap. 15 Sep 1839 at St Mary's, Portsea. Residence Abercrombie Street, Portsmouth (wiped out by bombing) and his father was a Seaman. John William Tubb (28) Shipwright of Lion Gate Road, Landport died on 22 Dec 1867 (1867 D Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Volume 02B Page 257), buried on 27 Dec 1867 at Portsea Cemetery.
2. Emma Ann Tubb b. 1841 Q3 in Portsea Island Vol 7 Page 106, bap. 11 Jul 1841 at St Mary's Portsea. Address was Copenhagen Street, Landport - also no longer exists - John was still a Seaman.
3. William Cox Tubb b. 1848 S Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND UNION Volume 07 Page 132, bap. 8 Oct 1848 at St Mary's, Portsea.
4. Edward Tubb b. 1850 M Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND UNION Volume 07 Page 147, bap. 20 Oct 1850 at St Mary's, Portsea. The family had moved to Spring Street and John was still described as a Seaman.
5. Mary Ann Tubb b. 1851 D Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND UNION Volume 07 Page 144, bap. 2 Nov 1851 at St Mary's, Portsea. They were then living in Lion Gate Road and John was listed as a Beer Retailer.
6. Sarah Tubb b. 1853 S Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND UNION Volume 02B Page 310, bap. 10 Jul 1853 at St Mary's, Portsea. Again living in Lion Gate Road and John listed as a Beer Retailer.
7. Ellen Tubb b. 1855 D Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Volume 02B Page 304. Died, aged 2Y 8M, on 5 May 1858 (1858 J Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Volume 02B Page 253), buried on 9 May 1858 at St Mary's Portsea, daughter of John Tubb, of Lion Gate Road, Landport.
8. Elizabeth Tubb b. 1857 J Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Volume 02B Page 325, bap. 2 Apr 1862 at All Saints, Portsea, residence Lion Gate Road and John listed as a Licenced Victualler.
9. Henry Tubb b. 1860 D Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Vol 02B Page 339, bap. 2 Apr 1862 at All Saints, Portsea. Died, aged 3, on 15 Jan 1864 (1864 M Quarter in PORTSEA ISLAND Vol 02B Page 292), buried 19 Jan 1864 at Portsea Cemetery, son of John Tubb of Lion Gate Road.

On the birth registrations for William Cox, Mary Ann, Ellen and Elizabeth the mother's maiden name is listed as HARFIELD. On the registrations for John William, Edward, Sarah and Henry, it is correctly listed as HARFULL.

We have scant details of John's naval career as he was too early for a continuous service record, but the obvious conclusion is that he went on a lengthy cruise between the births of Emma in 1841 and William in 1848.

John Tubb, born in Portsmouth, 5ft 10in, with dark brown hair, a ruddy complexion and hazel eyes and an anchor on his right arm, was, however, issued with a Merchant Seaman ticket in Valparaíso (Chile), on 17 Mar 1846, whilst serving with HMS Daphne (1838) in the capacity of Master-at-Arms. This record gives his date of birth as 15 Nov 1813. Baptised in early 1816, various records suggest that John Tubb was born in late 1815 and I'm happy to accept this record and believe that the tall lad made himself 2 years older when he signed up as a Seaman in 1831 - as he was then 16 and a boy, so by adding 2 years will have had him taken on and paid accordingly as an adult.

Adding weight to accepting the above record, HMS Daphne, on 30 Jul 1842 was reported at Portsmouth and on 28 Sep 1842 departed Spithead for South America. In Feb 1843, she was struck by lightning off Montevideo (Uruguay); on 26 Jul 1845 they arrived at Port Apia (Samoa), then proceeded to Auckland, New Zealand the following day. On 2 Oct 1845 Daphne left Auckland for the Pacific. 1846 Pacific and Otaheite (Tahiti). Jan 1848 Chatham, in Ordinary - which precisely fits the gap between kids.

In 1851, in Lion Gate Road, were John Tubb (36) Beer seller; Mary Tubb (35), John Tubb (12), Emma Tubb (10), William Tubb (2), Edward Tubb (1) and Frances Thompsham (17) and William Snook (10) House Servants.

In 1861, and still in Lion Gate Road, Portsmouth, were John Tubb (45) Publican; Mary Tubb (44) Publican's Wife; John Tubb (21) Assistant; Emma Cook (19) Seaman's wife; William Tubb (12), Edward Tubb (11), Mary Ann Tubb (9), Sarah Tubb (7), Elizabeth Tubb (4), Henry Tubb (0), Maria Tithridge (20) House Servant; Honore Batchat (15) House Servant; Charlet (sic) White (31) House Servant and Thomas Carroll (41) Traveller, Boarder.

The Hampshire Telegraph of 28 Dec 1867, under DEATHS, carried the following notice: "TUBB-On the 22nd instant, at the "Battle and the Breeze," Landport, John William Tubb, eldest son of John Tubb, aged 28." Although the Hampshire Telegraph on 26 Nov 1859 had placed Mary Tubb at the "Battle and Breeze", this confirms the name of the pub they ran for 25+ years. The Battle and the Breeze, Landport, The Portsmouth Encyclopedia tells us, was on north side of Lion Gate Road, on the east corner of Spring Street. That part of Lion Gate Road is now part of Edinburgh Road." That location is where the Park Tavern is today, although it may well now be a different edifice.

In 1871, with the address listed as 10 Lion Gate Road, were John Tubb (55) Licenced Victualler; Mary Tubb (54), Edward Tubb (21) Cabinet Maker; Mary A Tubb (19) Milliner; Sarah Tubb (17), Elizabeth Tubb (14), William Cook (7) listed as Nephew - he was actually John and Mary's grandson, so perhaps one of the children filled out the census forms and gave the relationship to themselves rather than their father - Alfred Hayden (25) Waiter, Domestic Servant; and James Brown (46) from Kent, Lodger, Pensioner RN.

In 1875 & 1878, son Edward Tubb is listed at the Battle & the Breeze.

In 1881, living at 114, Queens Road, Portsea, was John Tubb (65) Retired Publican with Mary Tubb (64), William Tubb (32) Upholsterer; Elizabeth Tubb (23) and William Cook (17) Tailor's Apprentice, born in Ireland (he was the son of Emma Ann Tubb and her husband William Cook).

In 1891, at 1, Queens Road, Portsea, were John Tubb (75), Mary Tubb (74), William Tubb (42) Upholster and Emma Honeyman (17) Domestic Servant.

Mary Tubb, wife of John Tubb of Queen's Road, Buckland, died, aged 83, in 1900 J Quarter in PORTSMOUTH Volume 02B Page 279, and she was buried on 29 Jun 1900 at Kingston Cemetery.

In 1901, John Tubb (85) Living on own means was still living at 1, Queens Road, Portsmouth with his son William Tubb (51) Living on own means and Bertha K Hillyer (23) General Domestic Servant.

John Tubb of Queens Road died, aged 90, in 1905 D Quarter in PORTSMOUTH Vol 02B Page 255 and was buried on 24 Nov 1905.

• There was a William Tubb (62) Retired, Single, living alone at 17 Chitty Road, Portsmouth in 1911 and a record in the Portsmouth Workhouse Registers of a William Tubb b. 1848, admitted and discharged on 3 Sep 1914. There's also a record of a death of a William Tubb (66) in 1914 S Quarter in PORTSMOUTH Volume 02B  Page 493. Sadly, I believe all of these may relate.

John Soppit and Louisa Tompson

The Shortlands Tavern, Station Road, Shortlands, Bromley
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Mike Quinn - geograph.org.uk/p/2255969

John Soppit (bap. 6 Oct 1844 in Longbenton, Northumberland), son of Joseph Soppit and Catherine Winship, married Louisa Tompson (bap. 15 Dec 1844 in Cransley, Northamptonshire), daughter of Daniel Thompson and Mary Adcock, at Christ Church, Watney Street, St George in the East, on 15 Feb 1875. One of the witnesses was Benjamin Tompson (Louisa's brother). 

This was not John's first marriage, however, because John Soppit had first married Emma Smith (23) (bap. 5 Apr 1848) - daughter of Martin Smith, Coal Miner, and Mary Picken (m. 1827) - in East Rainton on 12 Dec 1869. 

Mary Smith, illegitimate daughter of Emma Smith, had already been born in Houghton Le Spring and baptised on 11 Mar 1866 in West Rainton, Durham. Whether Mary was his natural daughter or not, John Soppit must have brought the child up as his own as she subsequently took his surname. 

John and Emma then had a further two children, who, given the same early dates in the same year, must have been twins.

1. Joseph William Soppit b. 1871 M Quarter in GUISBROUGH Volume 09D  Page 476 and baptised in Eston, Yorkshire on 17 Apr 1871. Buried, at St Nicholas Church, Hetton-le-Hole, on 27 Apr 1871. (1871 S Quarter in HOUGHTON LE SPRING Volume 10A Page 312).
2. Catherine Emma Soppit, b. 1871 M Quarter in GUISBROUGH Volume 09D Page 476, also baptised in Eston, Yorkshire on 17 Apr 1871. Buried on 30 April 1871, and the burial record says she was aged 2 weeks or months. The death is registered as 1873 S Quarter in DURHAM Volume 10A Page 240, which is either two years late, or there's an error.

In 1871, John Soppitt (sic), Engine Fitter, was living with wife, Emma, and children; Mary (5), Joseph Wm (0) and Catherine (0), and Elizabeth Turner (15), Servant, in Princess Street, Normanby, Guisborough, Yorkshire.

Emma Soppit (née Smith) died, aged 26, 1871 J Quarter in GUISBROUGH Volume 09D Page 405 and was buried on 17 Apr 1871, in Eston, Yorkshire. It looks very likely that she had died after giving birth to the twins, who were both baptised on the same day as their mother's funeral. 

John Soppit must have immediately taken the babies back to the home of his father, as his residence was listed at that time as South Hetton, Durham. At just weeks old, son, Joseph William Soppit died and was buried, at St Nicholas Church, Hetton-le-Hole on 27 Apr 1871. And just three days later, on 30 Apr 1871, his presumably twin sister, Catherine Emma Soppit, was buried, also at St Nicholas Church, Hetton-le-Hole. Heartbreaking.

John Soppit and Louisa Tompson had another 6 children:

1. Catherine Sarah Winship Soppit b. 4 Apr 1876 (1876 J Qtr in GREENWICH Vol 01D 925), bap. 4 Jun 1876 at St Nicholas, Deptford.
2. Joseph Daniel Soppit, b. 23 Sep 1877 (1877 D Quarter in GREENWICH Volume 01D Page 973)
3. John Benjamin Soppit, b. 1880 S Quarter in GREENWICH Volume 01D Page 941 (Died 1880 S Quarter in GREENWICH Volume 01D Page 560)
4. John Winship Soppit b. 1 Mar 1882 (1882 J Quarter in GREENWICH Volume 01D Page 943), bap. 10 Jun 1883 at Christ Church, Watney Street [Source]
5. Benjamin Tompson Soppit b. 13 Nov 1884 (1885 M Quarter in BROMLEY Volume 02A Page 415), bap. 1 Mar 1885 at St Mary, Shortlands, Kent
6. Louisa Adcock Soppit b. 26 Oct 1887 (1887 D Quarter in BROMLEY Volume 02A Page 424)

In 1881, John Soppet (sic), 36, Engine Fitter, was a boarder in the household of Jane Granger (58) at 29, Donald Street, Stockton upon Tees. Louisa was at the pub with her brother-in-law, Daniel Bottrill, with Emma's daughter, Mary; daughter Catherine and son Joseph, while her sister was away in Devon. 

Emma's daughter, listed as Mary Soppit, died, aged 24, in 1891 M Quarter in BROMLEY Volume 02A Page 295. Then confirmed in the Kent 1891 Public House Directory Listings, by the time of the 1891 Census, John Soppett (sic); wife Louisa (46), sons John Winship (9), Benjamin Thompson (6), daughter Louisa Adcock (3) and John Thompson (25), nephew, barman, were living at The Shortlands Tavern, Station Road, Beckenham, Bromley. 

The following report of The Bromley Petty Sessions appeared in the Maidstone Journal and Kentish Advertiser of 6 July 1893:

REFUSING TO QUIT. George Herbert, builder, of 19, Plaistow Lane, Bromley, was summoned by John Soppit, landlord of the Shortlands Tavern, Shortlands, for being disorderly and quarrelsome on licenced premises and refusing to quit the same, on June 27. Mr Gregory appeared for the complainant, and Mr L. Lewis for the defendant, who pleaded guilty. Mr Gregory stated that the defendant used fearful language towards the complainant. Mr Lewis stated that the defendant had not the slightest idea of having used any bad language until he received the summons. He urged that as the defendant had made this apology the magistrates should inflict a mitigated penalty. The Chairman said he had never heard such bad language. The defendant would be fined 40s with 8s costs, or 21 days' hard labour. Mr Lewis asked for time, but this was refused. 

The London (South) 1896 Suburban Publicans directory still lists John Soppit at the Shortlands Tavern, but by 1901, the family were residing in a quite grand double-fronted house at 20, Honley Road, Catford, Lewisham. John Soppit (56), Licenced Victualler, is listed with wife Louisa (56), sons John (19) and Benjamin (16) - who have followed their father's original trade as Joiners - daughter Louisa (13) and they can afford a General Domestic Servant. 

John Soppit had also been the licensee of the Princess Royal in Croydon, where he employed his nephew, John Benjamin Botterill, as his manager.

Louisa Soppit died, aged 57, in 1902 S Qtr in CROYDON Vol 02A Page 117. 

John Soppit (58) married Marian Johnson (39) Spinster, who listed her father as Thomas Johnson, Tripe Dresser, at St Mary Magdalen Bermondsey, on 27 Jul 1903. Witnesses were Elizabeth Johnson and Henry Rugg Johnson.

In 1911, John Soppit (66), Retired Licenced Victualler, was still living at 20, Honley Road, with new wife Marian (46), Benjamin (26) and Louisa (23). 

In 1921, John Soppit (76) Retired Engineer and Marion Soppit (51) from Poplar, were still living at 20, Honley Road, Lewisham.

John Soppit of 20, Honley Road, Catford, died on 24 Jan 1924 (1924 M Quarter in LEWISHAM Volume 01D Page1544) at 390, High Street, Lewisham (University Lewisham Hospital, the former Lewisham Workhouse). He left £3467 18s 1d (£212,166 in 2020) to his widow, Marian Soppit and a further £2208 to son, Benjamin Tompson Soppit, engineer. 

Marian Soppit died, at 78 in 1943 D Qtr in BOURNEMOUTH Vol 02B 1045.

Benjamin Blackmore and Mary Goff

Culmstock : The Culm Valley Inn
The former Railway Hotel, now the Culm Valley Inn
cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Lewis Clarke - geograph.org.uk/p/7381769

Benjamin Blackmore (bap. 3 Feb 1856 in Kentisbeare, Devon), Blacksmith, son of Samuel Blackmore and Elizabeth Jeffery, married Mary Goff (bap. 6 Nov 1859 in Kentisbeare), daughter of Charles Goff and Elizabeth Lock, at the parish church of St Mary's, Kentisbeare, on 11 Jan 1882.

Witnesses were John Goff and Hannah Goff, latter who was most likely to have been Mary's younger sister, Anna - she was also listed as Hannah on the 1881 census. The marriage record is on the same page and is therefore presumably the first wedding celebrated in the church since that of Mary's brother, William Goff and Sarah Jane Rowe, the previous September.

Ben and Mary had four daughters:

1. Lilian Elizabeth Blackmore b. 9 Mar 1882 (1882 J Quarter in WELLINGTON Volume 05C Page 334) Couldn't find a baptism, presumably because of the proximity to the wedding.
2. Florence Annie Blackmore b. 18 Oct 1885 D Quarter in WELLINGTON Vol 05C Page 310, bap. 15 Nov 1885 at All Saints Church, Culmstock
3. Amy Goff Blackmore b. 1889 M Quarter in WELLINGTON Volume 05C Page 313, bap. 7 Apr 1889 at All Saints Church, Culmstock
4. Gladys May Blackmore b. 17 Sep 1890 S Quarter in WELLINGTON Vol 05C Page 307, bap. Gladys Mary, 19 Oct 1890 at All Saints, Culmstock

The three baptism records all list their father's occupation as Blacksmith.

In 1886, Benjamin Blackmore of Culmstock won a prize for skill in shoeing.

In 1891, Benjamin Blackmore (34) General smith, was living in Station Road, Culmstock, with Mary Blackmore (32), Lilian Elizabeth Blackmore (9), Florence Annie Blackmore (5), Amy Goff Blackmore (2), Gladys May Blackmore (0) - 6 months - and William Windson (19) Apprentice.

R. D. Blackmore, the famous novelist best known for Lorna Doone, lived in Culmstock from 1835-1841 [Source], while his father, John Blackmore, was Curate of All Saints Church, Culmstock. In 1894, "Culmstock became the Perlycross in Blackmore's novel of that name. Perlycross includes detailed descriptions of local places and living conditions at that time." [Source] 

In Gregory's Directory of Culmstock, also of 1894, Ben Blackmore, is listed as "smith & machinist". In Richard Doddridge Blackmore's 1894 novel, "The only man with a clue to the mystery is a blacksmith who has been called up late at night by a mysterious party with a cart." Was there any link between Benjamin Blackmore and R D Blackmore? :) That would be research for another day.

(The Project Gutenberg EBook of Perlycross - Perlycross, R.D. Blackmore - Culmstock, Devon - Literary Sites on Waymarking.com)

In 1901, Benjamin Blackmore (45) was Innkeeper and Blacksmith at the Victoria Hotel, Culmstock with Mary Blackmore (42), Florence Blackmore (15), Amy Blackmore (12), Gladys Blackmore (10), Edith Brown (19) General domestic servant; Jonas Hooper (22) Blacksmith and Samuel Blackmore (17) Nephew, Blacksmith Apprentice. Lilian E Blackmore (19) Dressmaker, was a boarder at the Girls Friendly Society Lodge, 32, East Southernhay, Exeter.

Mary Blackmore died, aged 45, in 1905 J Quarter in WELLINGTON SOMERSET & DEVON Volume 05C Page 197 and Mary Blackmore (née Goff), wife of Benjamin Blackmore, Innkeeper, of The Railway Hotel, Culmstock, was buried, on 5 Apr 1905, in her native Kentisbeare.

So, Benjamin Blackmore (49), Widower, Licensed victualler, son of Samuel Blackmore, Farm Bailiff, married Clara Blackmore (47) Widow, daughter of Charles Dennett, in Wellington, Somerset on 23 Sep 1908. Clara gave her address as 26 Rockwell Green, Wellington (this address is a Post Office). Another Blackmore! That can't just be coincidence, can it? 

Clara Dennett bap. 21 Apr 1861, at Gussage All Saints, Dorset, daughter of Charles Dennett and Eliza Robertson, had married her first husband, John Tom Blackmore (b. 1860 in Gillingham, Dorset), son of Charles Blackmore and Mary Ann Wadman, at Gussage All Saints on 16 May 1887. 

In 1891, listed as Thomas Blackmore (33) Coachman from Gillingham, Dorset and Clara Blackmore (30), they were living at 114, Pavilion Road, Chelsea, (a mews just off Sloane Square). In 1901, Thomas Blackmore (40) Coachman and Clara Blackmore (40) were listed, along with a long list of coachmen, grooms, etc., at 1, Blue Ball Yard, St James Westminster. "The earliest reference to Blue Ball Yard itself dates to when the site was sold by King Charles II in 1672, by which time it was already a developed site of stables and housing, probably for servants working in the palace." It's clear from the addresses that John Tom Blackmore had worked in some high places.

Then John Tom Blackmore died, aged 45, in 1905 D Quarter in HATFIELD Volume 03A Page 360 and was buried, on 11 Dec 1905, in The Parish of Bishops Hatfield (St Etheldreda), Hertfordshire. This church is in the old village of Hatfield, "close to the walls of Hatfield House, once a royal palace [...] so is exceptionally grand for a parish church." His abode was listed as Hatfield Park. One assumes he'd brought dignitaries there. He may have been in the employ of James Gascoyne-Cecil, 4th Marquess of Salisbury.

But what link there could be between the Dorset Blackmore families and their Devon counterparts, if there was one, I've not found anything to indicate it.

In 1911, Benjamin Blackmore (53) Hotel Proprietor was at the Railway Hotel Millmoor, Culmstock with Clara Blackmore (50), Amy Blackmore (22) Draper's Assistant; Gladys Blackmore (20) Miliner; Rose Troake (16) Servant and Thomas Walls (29) Stonemason, Boarder. Florence Blackmore (28) was a Domestic cook in the household of Maurice Michael (58) Watch importer at 19 Lydford Road, Cricklewood NW, London.

In 1921, Benjamin Blackmore (60) Hotel Proprietor & Clara Blackmore (58) were at the 17th Century Coaching House, the The White Hart Hotel in Wiveliscombe, with Lydia Mary Furze (41) and John Reginald Furze (11) Visitors and Violet Gladys Chandler (25) & Ivy May Taylor (22) Servants.

Clara Blackmore died, at 66, in 1927 D Quarter in WELLINGTON Volume 05C Page 307. And Benjamin Blackmore died the following year, at 69, in 1928 M Quarter in WELLINGTON Volume 05C Page 329.

• Lilian Elizabeth Blackmore married George Henry Hansford, in Wellington (Somerset), in 1906. That same year, they emigrated to Canada. They appear to have had two children. Lilian Elizabeth Hansford died, at 92, in Victoria, British Columbia, in 1975.
• Florence Annie Blackmore married William Herbert Owen Denness in Hendon, Middlesex, in 1912. They had three children. In 1939, William H O Denness, Hotel Proprietor, Florence A Denness were at 10-11 St George's Place, Llandudno - a quite grand, sea front location. Their younger daughter, Gladys, was Hotel Receptionist; also living in were a Hotel Boots, two Waitresses, a Chambermaid and a Cook. Florence Annie Denness died, aged 73, on 2 Dec 1958 and was buried, on 5 Dec 1958 in Llanrhos, Caernarvonshire.
• Amy Goff Blackmore married Douglas Wilfred Brentnall, in Wellington (Somerset), in 1917. They had one son quite late after their marriage, John Douglas Brentnall (1934-2010). Amy G Brentnall died, aged 77, in Weston-Super-Mare, in 1967.
• Gladys May Blackmore married Henry Cowper Giles (b. 12 Aug 1889, in Bristol), son of Francis Frederick Giles and Florence Maria Avent, in Wellington (Somerset), in 1917. They had one son, Roland Henry Giles (1918-1968). In 1939, Henry C Giles, Sports Outfitter and Gladys May Giles were living at 56 Chepstow Road, Newport, Monmouthshire, Wales. Gladys May Giles died on 11 Apr 1992, at the grand old age of 101 years 6 months and is buried at Holy Trinity Church, Christchurch Road, Newport, Wales.