31-Dec-2009: Seeking.. Hi Daniel, I hope you might be able to help me trace the name and perhaps some other info of the dance band which my father, Ernest, played in as a young man. I have attached a photo taken by the Waltur Studios, Walthamstow. My father is sitting on the extreme right holding his trumpet. I would be happy for this photo to go on your website if it might help. I would be so grateful for any help you might be able to give me to solve this.
My father's name was Ernest Weinstein. At the time the photo was taken he lived at 45, Osbaldeston Road, N16. He worked for M&S until WW2 during which he served in the Royal Artillery. After he was demobbed, he met my mother and together they started a retail jewelery business. Many thanks,

(Click on image to enlarge)

Leanne Newman Private Reply Public Reply

26-Dec-2009: Boat House Hello Daniel, that's an interesting photo, although its the first time I have seen it or heard of it. But on further investigation, I have found that this boathouse was replaced by the Walthamstow Pavillion in 1937, whose name was later changed to Walthamstow Theatre. So I guess the boat house was on the island at the entrance to Lloyds Park. Hope this helps.
Eb Vawda Private Reply Public Reply

02-Dec-2009: I'm very interested in Gordon Road area of Walthamstow maps, photos or just information: my parents lived there up to 1974 when the area was demolished for new house its where alexandra housing estate is now just off Boundary rd. Hope to hear from you soon, thank you.
Rick Burgess Private Reply Public Reply

28-Nov-2009: Walthamstow Map. Hello! The map shows the Whips Cross Hospital as West Ham Infirmary. The Infirmary was built between 1900-1903 and the name was changed to Whips Cross Hospital in 1918. So my educated guess is that the map can be dated to a period between 1903-1917. Hope this helps. Regards.
Eb Vawda Private Reply Public Reply

27-Nov-2009: Walthamstow Map. I was checking out the WM site this evening as I tend to do every week or so, just in case there is a question I can help answer, actually I've had a fair success rate in that department just recently. Anyway this brings me nicely on to your request regarding the map.
Obviously most W'stow maps are easily roughly dated by the railways, so that puts this one into the 20th century for starters, I do have many old maps myself, but this one appears a little vague and hard to date exactly, probably hence the reason you ask in the first place. Upon first inspection I thought that I had it dated pretty accurately, I usually tend to date them by the growth of the Warner Estate. Carr Road (which is on the map) was built in 1902 but the rest of the roads that followed on the Llyods Park development aren't there, namely Fleeming 1907, Elphinstone 1912 etc, so at first I thought I had solved it, and with a little bit more study I would narrow it down to within a year or two at least.
However having given it a closer look I now find that it omits most of the roads built in Victorian times, namely all the Village, but it seems to replace any developed areas with shaded pink, which in turns seems to suggest that all the park estate would have all been built. To be honest given how basic it is in detail, you wouldn't get lost if you used it today, nothing much has changed apart from the re-routing of the North Circular.
So to conclude my thoughts and coming up with an educated guess, rather ironically my decision is made by Beacontree Ave, I recall that photo you sent me and our discussion at the time. If you look at the end part of the road where it meets Forest Road, you will notice that there is the aforementioned pink shaded area, the very first are Edwardian houses (about a row of ten built around 1908), after that they become 1930's build. Going further down the road to the small road on the left (part of Belle Vue Road, it now runs fully into Hale End) there also appears to be development. This was originally the site of Belle Vue House, a rather grand mansion complete with lake, I'm sure you've read about it during your research at some time. Anyway it wasn't knocked down until 1937. So I'm guessing that coupled with the fact that even this basic map wouldn't miss out a building of such grandeur and that the shaded area appears to have already made its way a good half way down, I would suggest that the map is actually post war, given that no maps would have been printed between 1936/45. Based also on the part construction of the Risings Estate that is my conclusion, and I'm pretty well sure I am correct, I think the map would probably have been one of the first ones to be produced after the war, although possibly based upon a map which would have been surveyed during the late 1930's
I'd be interested to hear if you get anymore suggestions, whether to prove or disprove, it makes interesting debate. Regards
Michael Wood Private Reply Public Reply

25-Nov-2009: Hello there! I've just joined this site to look at the town where my dad lived with his mum and dad in the 1920s-1940s. He lived in Brookscroft Road and went to Chapel End School. Is there anyone out there who could provide me with some info about that area? When he was married and had my sister, he used to go to Walthamstow Speedway [UP THE WOLVES!!!!] with my mum and sister. There is even a family legend that my sister was their mascot - jammy!! Here's hoping, kind regards.
Colleen Isgate Private Reply Public Reply

23-Nov-2009: Hello from Barrie Stevens! Here are a few pictures:

St Saviour's School Mark House Road, Walthamstow Class IV about 1935-1936.
My mother Kathleen Fryer is fourth from the right on second row up from bottom of picture.


George Gascoigne School about 1939
My mother Kathleen Fryer is second from the left third row up from bottom of group...

Barrie Stevens Private Reply Public Reply

20-Nov-2009: Hello Daniel. As we discussed yesterday I still had a bit more of my story to share and so I have now written it and attached it with this email. I have called it part 3 because part 2 is contained within the earlier memory. Please check it out and if acceptable include it in the memories part of the website. [read it here ].Yours truly,
Len Hall Private Reply Public Reply

Daniel's note: Many thanks, Len, both from me & from John.

19-Nov-2009: Hello John and Daniel, I would be obliged if you could get into my 'Memories' item that is posted on the site and change the email address that is shown there. My address now is lcpmhall@bigpond.com.
I did get quite a few questions about Austinsuite and Grottoes etc. but as the address currently shown is now dead I get nothing. I am 72 now and still going strong except for a recent prostate Cancer operation, that is behind me now and I am Cancer free. The next hurdle is to get my cataracts done and then I can get back to riding our tandem and bikes.
Thanks for that and incidentally I am now a member of the Yahoo group too. Regards,
Len Hall Private Reply Public Reply

Daniel's note: email address updated in Len's personal memories file.

15-Nov-2009: Dear Daniel, For my family I have been researching the World War II Destroyer HMS MARTIN and her crew. HMS MARTIN with a crew of 222 was torpedoed and sunk 10th November 1942 with a loss of 159, one of whom was my 18-year-old uncle Ordinary Seaman Thomas Cusack from Birmingham. After several years of research with some success my family have developed a website dedicated to the men who served in HMS MARTIN. I am therefor contacting Family History Societies/Groups where these men hailed from in the hope that the Society/Group will publish our Website address in their Magazine/Journal so hopefully relatives of the men who served in HMS MARTIN will have the opportunity to contact us and forward information if they so wish.
Our website is: HMS MARTIN G44 (My full postal address is available if required).
The men from your area are:

Leading Supply Assistant REUBEN RICHARD DAGLISH MPK Aged 36
Son of Ernest and Eliza Ellen Daglish; husband of Vera Florence Daglish of WALTHAMSTOW.

Engine Room Artificer 4th Class DENNIS HERBERT HAYNES MPK Aged 22
Son of James Samuel and Matilda Haynes of WALTHAMSTOW.

Stoker 1st Class WILLIAM EDWIN WHITFIELD MKP Aged 29
Son of Ashton James and Phoebe Jane Whitfield of WALTHAMSTOW.

Hoping you can help with my request. Regards

Tom Meaden
Poole, Dorset Private Reply Public Reply

24-Oct-2009: Dear John...I was not born in Walthamstow but in Eastbourne in 1943. My Mom was a Canadian Warbride and her and I came to Canada in 1946. I have done so much Family History Research not only for my own family but also for friends. For the last year I have been tracing my friend Gloria Goldsmith's family..we both live in British Columbia , Canada. Gloria was born and raised in Walthamstow and her dad I think lived there for 57yrs until his death. Please excuse me if I am rambling but I am so excited and appreciative of what you and Daniel have done. In all my research for families I have never found such a wonderful,informative resource. Makes me wish I was born in Walthamstow! Gloria does not do computer so can't wait till her husband comes home..brings up your site and lets Gloria enjoy. I have phoned her so many times today reading from your site that both our ears are sore ! I am emailing you to say Thank You So Much for all you and Daniel have done for so many xxoo. Is there some way ( I will help all I can ) that you can teach and get other s interested in creating a site like yours? Just a little side question.....Are you aware of the Canadian Home Children Story? My Family is from Howden and Leeds, Yorkshire originally from Ireland ( now that's a roadblock ),,Wells and Bath, Somerset. London area and Sussex. All I have left to say is "WOW" GREAT JOB WE WHO DO FAMILY HISTORY SHOULD ALL BE SO LUCKY TO HAVE A SITE LIKE YOU HAVE CREATED....Do hope I hear from you. Regards,
Jackie Brech Private Reply Public Reply

23-Oct-2009: Dear Mr Knowles, I visited the Walthamstow Memories site today as my Grandmother Barbara Henegan grow up in a convent on Shernhale Street from 1938-1943. My Grandmother found the brother in 1972 but they believe they have several brothers and sisters who were also put into care and I am looking for any information I can get on Shernhale Convent so I can find out if any documentation can give more information. Kindest Regards,
Christina Lipper Private Reply Public Reply

15-Oct-2009: What an interesting site which I found purely by accident, whilst researching the groups I had seen at the assembly rooms in the sixties. I was born on 25 October 1947 at Thorp Coomb hospital. the family lived at 74 Mount Pleasant road. Dad was a chauffeur at HTB in Blackhorse road. We moved to tottenham iwhen i was about four but still had a lot of family in wathamstow. I played in 'beat groups' as they were then called and every saturday night would be at the assembly rooms to see the bands. The Herd, Wainwrights gentlemen, and Episode Six were among the best. When I got married in 68 my wife and I would often visit the market and have pie and mash with green liquor, Mmm scrummy! I was a policeman for the next 25 years but served in south London. We've lived in France for the last 9 years, but my memories of the old days have never faded. First football match watched was at the avenue, first gig played was at the Black Horse etc etc and many many girlfriends (but thats another story!!)
Mike Honey Private Reply Public Reply

14-Oct-2009: Thank you John for this wonderful site. I'm Muryl Geary, in Vancouver BC Canada, the niece of Marion & Joan THOMPSON who were born in Walthamstow. My aunt Marion died in Canada in 2003 but Joan now lives in Surrey. We have been having some wonderful telephone conversations about her life in Walthamstow. At 87years of age, these are delightful memories for her. She has also been enjoying all the stories on the Memories pages. Joan's father, Harold THOMPSON, born 1894 at 279 Chingford Road, Walthamstow, was a Tram Driver for London Transport. His father, John Charles THOMPSON was a Tramway Inspector in Walthamstow. Harold's parents John & Annie Thompson also had a daughter Nellie, a book folder, and sons Arthur John and Herbert William, all born in Walthamstow. Harold THOMPSON married Florence (Florrie) WALDIE, a wonderful seamstress who lived at 86 Brettenham Road around 1922, with her parents Edward & Mary Waldie and her sisters Rosie & Jessie who were also great seamstresses. Their mother died in 1912 & their father Edward, a blacksmith, died in 1918, neither living to see their daughters married. Sisters Rose & Jessie continued to live at 86 Brettenham Road which had a 2nd storey in it. Jessie eventually married Stanley Cyril HALL, always called Cyril. He too was a Tram Inspector in Walthamstow. Working for London Transport seems to have run in the families. Harold & Florrie moved to 30 Greenleaf Road after marriage, which was a ground floor flat, which is why Joan loved going to visit her aunts in the two storyey house in Brettenham Road. Joan also remembers going to Lloyd Park with her siblings Marion & Michael, pushing a pram with little Michael in it. The fountain was so lovely. The family homes on Chingford Road, Brettenham Road and Greenleaf Road were all close to Lloyd Park. She was sorry to hear the fountain is no longer running. Nobody had a refrigerator in those days. She remembers a horse drawn cart coming with huge blocks of ice in it and her mother used to put a chunk in their cooler or ice chest to keep food from spoiling. Also the wonderful smell from the bakery. Sometimes she was sent down the alley where the horses & wagons were waiting to be loaded up with fresh bread for delivery early in the morning as the baker might have leftover bread, free, from the day before. Sometimes there was none but she still had to get past the big horses which scared her. Other times there might be a current loaf which was a real treat. She also remembers a furniture store on one of the corners, and the fish shop, Methsen's. Also the building with the glass windows that when you looked in you could see kiddies with their green caps and gowns on, all seated around the room waiting to be called in to be chloroformed, one by one, to have their tonsils taken out! And, of course, William McGuffie School. She still has her Testimonial from there. Also helping their mother with chores and hating those wet carbolic-smelling cleaning cloths. She remembers her Dad as a tall, quiet man, dressed in his dark blue uniform and peaked cap, going off to work on the Trams. Around 1929 or 1930 the changeover was coming in to eliminate the trams. She doesn't remember what work her Dad went into with London Transport afterwards. When Harold was gone, her mother married Arthur George THOMPSON, a porter with SMITHFIELD MARKET in Walthamstow. When Joan was 17 in 1939 World War II started. There was a canal up to Guildford where goods could be shipped, so the 2nd day after the war started Smithfield Market transferred Arthur George THOMPSON to their Guildford Branch. Sadly, she had to leave her friends and familiar places behind. She remembers the family hurriedly packing up their lives into shopping bags, including Kelly their cat, food and blankets. and bussing up to Guildford. They were given temporary shelter in Guildford at Commander Wyatt's home until they found somewhere to live. They rented a house "The Weasels" and then found "Weymore" on the Liddington Estate where they remained for the duration of the War. Joan's sister Marion married a Canadian soldier, my uncle Maxwell Smyth of Calgary, Alberta in Guildford and in 1946 left England for Canada. Joan herself married and moved away from Guildford as did her brother Michael. However, Walthamstow always remained home, their birthplace, with all those childhood memories. Whenever Marion returned from Canada for a visit she always detoured through Walthamstow, amazed at the changes over the years. If anyone remembers the Tram Driver Harold THOMPSON's family of Walthamstow it would be a great pleasure to reconnect and share memories with my aunt Joan. Anyone can contact me, Muryl Geary, at muryla@aol.com. We'll keep checking back to read more wonderful memories of Walthamstow this site has to offer. We certainly have to thank John Knowles and Daniel Quinn for such a wonderful gift to us. Thank You!
Muryl Geary Private Reply Public Reply

9-Oct-2009: When I watch English TV programmes, why is it that our beloved W-stow seems to be the butt of jokes and derision ?? It's always "being exiles to W-stow" if a civil servant. Me? Went to Winns Ave School thence to Leyton County High for Boys. Lived @ 64 Brettneham Rd and loved Lloyd's Park and Epping Forest. NS in RN then MN then 1962 arrived here in NZ. Been back a few times tho' cant "go home" as Mum & Dad long dead, but have stood outside 64 with my brother who lives in Chelmsford. I'm 71, was bombed out twice by Jerry. From Plaistow we moved to W-stow when I was abt 2 or 3. I well remember the bomb that levelled the rd on the park side down towards the Vicry pub fm the alley to the Park dow.
Tony Freshwater Private Reply Public Reply

8-Oct-2009: I was born in Chingford in 1928 but lived all my life in Walthamstow 91 Bedford Road to be exact. I attended Winns avenue school from 1932 until I started work in 1942. I found your site by chance while looking for information on a school in Aveling park Road, which was not there in my time in Walthamstow. I moved from E17 when I married in 1953, and emigrated to Australia in 1962. I have been most impressed with your site and have enjoyed reading sone of the letters etc. Please keep up the good work: it is so good to keep in touch with your roots. I hope to continue visiting the site and may send some some further info at a later date, re school days and people I knew then. Kind regards until next time!
Frank Kennett Private Reply Public Reply

29-Sep-2009: Dear Daniel, love the website, but would query the photo (postbag 9 - 21/4/08) as being the Maynard Rd. Almshouses with St. Mary's Church in the background. I lived at 10a Maynard Road from 1945 to 1950, opposite the almshouses, and there was no street in the position from where that photo was taken. I enclose my memories of Maynard Road (read it here ) from those days and would like to hear from anyone from that area. My mother's name Alice (née Bowes), my father was Frank Coates, sister Sheila, brother Brian. Best wishes,
Valerie Brown
(née Coates) Private Reply Public Reply

Daniel's reply: You are absolutely right! The picture (my grandmother's house in '47) is of the Squire Almshouses in Church End/Church Lane: the "Squires".

22-Sep-2009: Hi! I just came upon your site during my search for information about my ancestors. My great grandfather, William John McMillan, and his family apparently lived in Walthamstow up until about 1920. His son, Henry (my grandfather), was an apprentice toolmaker at the AEC plant there. I think they may have lived at 40 Grosvenor Park Road because I came across that address scribbled on a WWI military record that may relate to his brother, Alfred, who worked for a music store before they all moved to Australia. I do know that my grandmother, Winifred Hope, met Henry while he was living in Walthamstow and followed him to Australia to marry in 1924. Her father, John James Hope, was a printer and the family lived at 26 Higham Hill Road. I am told the family attended a Baptist church in Higham Hill Road. Any information about either family would be most appreciated. Best wishes,
Jeff Bird
from Australia Private Reply Public Reply

13-Sep-2009: Hi, I'm hoping someone can help me find out the name of my infant school from what is a very sketchy (and probably not very helpful) memory. From 1974-1979 (from when I was 6 till I was 11) I lived at 1 Green Pond Road, an address which I know will be extremely familiar to any Walthamstow Avenue FC supporters, and attended Edward Redhead School on Higham Hill Road. I have great memories from that time which I won't bore you with now. What I'm trying to discover is where I was before that. My mum can't remember the name of the infant school, but what I do remember is that it was a very old fashioned building made of (I think!) dark red brick. I do recall there being a massive rectangular hall inside and all the classrooms seemed to lead from that, and I seem to remember there was some kind of high school or college to the right of it (a white building comes to mind). I know that's not a lot to go on, but it's really driving me mad so if anyone can make a suggestion then at least that'll give me something to work with! Thanks very much
Julie Private Reply Public Reply

19-Aug-2009: Hi! Just wondered if anyone who looks at this wonderful website might be able to help me.
I was born in Thorpe Coombe Hospital in 1964 and lived in Higham Hill road until 1985. I remember the old St.Andrews Church on the corner of Higham Hill Road and St Andrews Road.
I was wondering if anyone else remembers the Church after it was pulled down the Church services were held for a very long time in the Church Hall, there was also a cabin that was used for the Sunday schools. Please does anyone remember the old Church the vicar at the time was Cecil Parker. Would really appreciate any pictures of the Church. I have tried to on several occasions to email the current vicar to see if any records exist but he never replies!!! Thanks,
Andy Judd Private Reply Public Reply

18-Aug-2009: Hi, I was wondering if you would be able to help me. Recently my Grandad has said he wished he could remember more about living in Walthamstow when he was younger. One very vague memory he has was from 1941 and having to evacuate his home on St Mary's Road, Walthamstow because of bombs being dropped in WW2. I have been trying to find more information about this event, he was only about seven at the time it happened I think. There is such a wealth of knowledge about the walthamstow area on your website I thought you might be able to provide some more details of this event for me, I have been unable to find any archive newspaper stories about it. Thank you in advance of any information you can give me, Kind Regards,
Amanda Kilbey Private Reply Public Reply

13-Aug-2009: Hi Daniel, I am hoping you or someone can help me, I am trying to find out something about my Great Grandfather Charles Baker who was a Butcher (Employer) in Walthamstow in 1891 and his Wife Harriet. I know from the 1891 Census (Copy available on request) that they lived in Forest Rd Walthamstow but cant make out the name of the house.
If anyone could come up with any information or suggestions of who could help I would be very grateful. Regards
John Carter Private Reply Public Reply

11-Aug-2009: "Walthamstow First World War mystery"
Hello! My widowed grandmother and her 5 young children (one of whom was my mother) spent the First World War living at no. 6 Countess Road, Walthamstow (now North Countess Road), this house being 3 down from the junction of that road with Billet Road. The family name was Avery. Every night, apparently, there was a soldier posted on guard duty at the junction of these two roads. With all my family now long dead (I am 77 myself!), I have no-one left to ask; but there seems to be no record of what this soldier was guarding, of whether there was a similar soldier on guard duty on every street corner in Walthamstow, or even in London. Can any of your correspondents with a family history of living in Walthamstow back in World War One days, come up with an answer?
I have consulted street maps of the area at this time, but there is no indication of there being any military barracks or other buildings in the area; yet this soldier must have been billeted somewhere in the area, and would hardly be likely to be the only soldier in Walthamstow at the time!
My grandmother took pity on him, and every morning when he came off duty she would invite him into her house for a mug of cocoa. He came from Hastings, and after the war was over he wrote to my grandmother thanking her for her kindness, and in return said he'd like to offer a week's holiday in his home for one of her children. It was my mother, then a girl of 17, who was chosen for this holiday, and during her week in Hastings she met and immediately fell in love with my father, and some 3 years later they were married in Peking, China, where I was born in 1932. So without this soldier I would not be here, hence my interest in finding out more about him.
I should be happy to have my email address included in any version of the above which you may decide to circulate. Yours sincerely,
James A Gilman
from Durham Private Reply Public Reply

4-Aug-2009: Dear John, I would be most grateful if you would add this email to your site. Many years ago my Grandmother lived in Frederic Street, Walthamstow (off St James Street, nr the station). On the wall of the end house was a plaque commerating the names of the men from this street who lost their lives during the war. When the houses were pulled down to build a new estate the plaque disappeared. I was told he had been taken to a local church, but searches have proved fruitless. I think it should have gone to Walthamstow Museum, and would love to know where it is now so it can be put where everyone can see it. Does anyone have any information.
Lesley Stock Private Reply Public Reply

31-Jul-2009: Hi Daniel. Just to let you know of a change of E-mail address. Also to tell you that four of us came up for a day, a short time back, able to see the places we lived in, and the sites of places pulled down. The Dominion looked sad with all the boards round it, also the Pub nearby with most of its windows shattered, parking was terrible and the driving left much to be desired. Had a look at Lloyds Park and was sad to see that the fishpond had disappeared. Stayed at the Hotel where the Kingfisher used to be, how times have changed, it was better when the war was on. Cheers Daniel.
Eddie Wybrow
(NEW email) Private Reply Public Reply

27-Jul-2009: I am researching my family history, the Dexters, who were a large family and generations lived and worked in Walthamstow. Most were born in Exmouth Road and I recall living in Manor Road and in St Johns Road. I was evacuated from the school near to St.Johns Rd (don't know the name of the school) to St.Just in Cornwall - must have been 1939/40...Are there any local records of the children who were evacuated from Walthamstow to the various parts of the UK including St.Just Cornwall.? Regards
Graham Dexter Private Reply Public Reply

26-Jul-2009 Hello, I am writing on behalf of my mother born 1923. Name Gwendoline Fisher (now 88)and her brother Edward (Ted) Killed Normandy 12/6/1944) born 1925. They both went to St Mary’s Infant School, Walthamstow, then Gwen went to Junior school through senior called Oxford House, the head mistress was called Mrs Gertrude Press. Gwen left at the age of 17. Her brother Ted went to St Savior’s School, Mark House Road then onto Grocers School, Hackney Downs. Audrey Hicks was her best friend, she thinks Audrey lived of Hailnult Road, Leytonstone and her Dad made printing stamps. Gwen’s Dad co-owned Printer/Lithographic works in 171 City Road, called Francis Fisher & Sons (opposite Moorfields Eye Hospital). 171 City Road was bombed during last war, all Mum can remember is her Dad coming home saying they had lost every thing. The family went through a lot, loosing the Printers, then Gwen’s brother in 1944, her Mum Daisy Fisher in 1945 and her Dad Charles in 1953. Gwen and Ted lived with their parents in Granville Road, Walthamstow.

Does any of this raise any memories with any one? Mum would love to talk to any one who remembers her. She is very frail now but long term memory bit better than short term. Please get in touch with me. Thank you
Linda Billingham Private Reply Public Reply

26-Jul-2009: Hi, I found your email addresses on the Walthamstow Memories website and was wondering if you would be able to help me. Recently my Grandad has said he wished he could remember more about living in Walthamstow when he was younger. One very vague memory he has was from 1941 and having to evacuate his home on St Mary's Road, Walthamstow because of bombs being dropped in WW2. I have been trying to find more information about this event, he was only about seven at the time it happened I think. There is such a wealth of knowledge about the walthamstow area on your website I thought you might be able to provide some more details of this event for me, I have been unable to find any archive newspaper stories about it. Thank you in advance of any information you can give me. Kind Regards, ,
Amanda Kilbey Private Reply Public Reply

19-Jul-2009 - BAKER/SMITH family: Hello, I can provide all the required information but unfortunately, the email address for Joanne Triplow as given doesn't work. Would you please publish an item to the effect that if the information is required the searcher should reprovide a working email? Thanking you in anticipation,
William Bayliss Private Reply Public Reply

03-Jul-2009: Hi , having trawled many internet sites I am hoping you may be able to give me some positive help . I was born in St Albans in 1965 , my birth mother from Walthamstow High Street , but I only have a first name for my father , Robert , apparently a bus conductor aged 19 ish from I assume the same area , he apparently committed suicide before my birth hence my adoption , I was wondering if you could point me in the right direction to find achieve newspapers that may tell of his death or would have death notices in , or maybe someone looking at this site may remember this. Any help would be appreciated so I can complete my family jigsaw. Regards,
Rachel Haldane Private Reply Public Reply

29-Jun-2009: Hi John, I just stumbled across your website and thought I'd contribute. Not sure of the right place to submit this so apologies if I've got it wrong! I was born in Walthamstow in 1965 and lived in Brooke Road opposite Warwick Boys until 1978 when my family emigrated to Ireland. I've never been back since but do know that they chopped that great willow
tree down in the school - when, why? It was great climbing up that and on the coal bunker! Also, have good memories of playing in the play ground on Wood St beside the shops, up from the station, playing around the flats there and in the tunnels. Would be interested in hearing from anyone who lived on the road at that time. Hope jog and share a few memories.
What was the name of that toy shop further down Wood St.
Tony O'Keeffe Private Reply Public Reply

28-Jun-2009: Hi Daniel and John, I would love some more information if possible to help fill in the life of my grandfather George Charles MONDAY. I found him on the 1911 census working and living at the COMMON GATE HOTEL, Markhouse Road, Walthamstow. He was 31 years of age at the time and later that year he married and immigrated to Australia. The licensed Victuallers were Alfred TOYE snr and jnr. The information from the census was so interesting as I have my granparent's autograph book signed by the TOYE family and many other people from Walthamstow - Steve BARKER, Clara SHORT, Thomas WEBSTER, Mrs DOILEY, Mr E. HASLER, J.P. NOLAN, F. G. HENNINGS, J. STEPHENSON (old ship-mate)?, F.C. SANDERS. Any information would be much appreciated.
Lynette
Sydney, Australia Private Reply Public Reply

28-Jun-2009: Hi, im trying to locate Richard Kane. I have been given my birth father details after 34 years he doesn't even know. His last known address was 368 Hoe St, Walthamstow, Greater London E17 and his father was called Thomas or Tom. He worked for granda tv rentals in 1975/1976. Richard was last seen 20 years ago. Any information pls thanks all
Paul Dowding Private Reply Public Reply

23-Jun-2009: I have lived in Walthamstow many years and attended the Joseph Barret Secondary school in Barret Road and Brooke Rd E.17. during 1948-1952. Perhaps someone might remember me as a schoolgirl there (girls downstairs and boys on floor above)? Many thanks,
Pat Jones
neé Quinn Private Reply Public Reply

15-Jun-2009: Hello, I was looking through your site and noticed a picture of a man I recognised and thought I would ask you about him. I believe his stall was a fruit and veg stall which he ran with his brother. It was situated outside Times Furnishing on the High Street by Carisbrooke Road. I used to be walking home from school and he would shout across to me "Tell your Mum I have got damsons and gooseberries just in" and I would run home to tell my Mum. My Mum and Dad were Scots and made all their own jam and regularly took nearly all his stock when the various fruits came in season. We left Carisbrooke Road in 1971, not long after my Father died of Cancer. We returned to Scotland where my Mother and sister still live.
Last year I made my first visit back to Walthamstow and was qute shocked to see the High Street and "my house" again. It looks so run down now.
Anyway, wondered if you knew anything about the stall holder. It was so good to see his picture again, brought so many memories back.
Helena Pigott Private Reply Public Reply

8-Jun-2009: Dear Daniel, just to say that I am now in contact with Julia and hope to meet-up with Ernie Gray in the near future. Sincere thanks for your help & kind regards,
Eric Allinson Private Reply Public Reply

Note from Daniel: Many thanks, Eric, for promptly offering your assistance: we look forward to see some of Ernie's memories here!

7-Jun-2009: Can you help me please? I have a photo of my wife's grandfather and I believe it is a photo of Walthamstow Avenue F C. It was taken in London in 1913-14. Have attached photo can anyone confirm this is W A F C.

Thank you very much
Clive Hawtin Private Reply Public Reply

28-May-2009:Dear Daniel and John, I hope you can help me. My Mum is 100 this year and I am trying to make a film of her life for her big day. She lived in Walthamstow as a child and attended William Morris School and Ruckold Road school. She was born in 1909 and so this would be between 1914 and 1923. She remembers that William Morris had girls on one level and boys the other, but that for something like a ha'penny a week she attended ballroom dancing lessons there after school. She thinks that both William Morris and Ruckold took pupils from 5 till 14 at the time she attended them. I cannot find any information about Ruckold Road school and the only photo I can find of either is that of William Morris on your website. Do you have any informatiom about either school for this period? Or can you point me in the direction of any archives?
I do hope you can help. Thanks,
Shay Habel Private Reply Public Reply

22-May-2009:My very good friend Ernie Gray (91yrs old) was born and brought up in the Walthamstow/Woodford?/Forest gate area in the early years of the 20th century and lived in the area till the 50’s I believe. His father was a Billingsgate porter and Ernie grew up in the most extreme poverty and deprivation but pulled through to become the most interesting man, accomplished self taught musician, painter etc etc . He has befriended my mum who has Alzheimers and is wonderful with her, they dance &sing to big band music. He is a smashing chap, absolutely compos mentis, very intelligent with a great memory. He suffers from tinnitus but loves to talk about his early years.
His physical health is, sadly, failing fast and I am aware that unless his memories can be recorded somehow that the vast treasure house of information he holds in his head will be lost forever. I wonder if anyone would be interested in coming with a taperecorder and interviewing him while he is still up to it?
He has written a short memoire of his family life in his very early days but writing tires him now and he has so much more to tell. I’m sure he would get a great deal from knowing that his memories are important.
Maybe you would be kind enough to put me in touch with anyone who may be able to help?
(I was also born in Walthamstow but much later 1952)
Many thanks
Julia
Cllaremont-Brown Private Reply Public Reply

16-May-2009:Hi Guys, I've started a new site recording the history of Walthamstow Avenue FC at http://walthamstowavenue.wordpress.com. I'd be grateful if you could tell your readers, and ask them to feel free contact me with any contributions they may have. Pictures, info, memories etc. Thanks,
Walt Hamstow-Avenue
Esq. Private Reply Public Reply

22-Apr-2009: Hello from Downunder. Not sure if you are the right person to email. Just found your site. Am searching for information on my ancestors, the MAY family, specifically Charles and his family, who lived in Selborne Terrace and West Ave Road in the 1880's and 1890's. Charles was a member of the Brethren and a silversmith/clock/copper worker, who also had links to Birmingham. I have some census returns, but would like to know a lot more.
On the offchance there is anyone in cyberspace with some information or interest, would love to hear from them. Cheers!
Ruth Keane Private Reply Public Reply

19-Apr-2009: Hello, Daniel, I am attaching the promised photo of my uncle William Rhoden Morley, of 160 Forest Road, Walthamstow, son of William Theophilus Morley and Jessie Morley, who died in the battle of the Somme on July 8th 1916, aged 18. Also attached, for interest, is a photo of his memorial plaque. These bronze plaques were presented to the families of all who fell in the 1914-18 war. (I once saw one on display among a collection of horse brasses surrounding the fireplace of a pub in Surrey! However, I said nothing because I felt nobody would care, or understand, why I was so appalled! I also have a picture of my grandfather's boot and shoe repair shop at 160 Forest Road, but can't lay my hands on it for the moment. Vestry House has a copy, though.
Keep up the good work - the Walthamstow Memories will be an important social document and local history resource one day. If I can help in any way, please let me know. Kind regards,
Pam Stockwell Private Reply Public Reply

Note from Daniel: Yes, we would like the other picture! Pictures visible in the 'Family history' section - MORLEY family

9-Apr-2009: Hi Daniel, Thought this might be of interest: in my story on the Personal Stories page, I mentioned old friends and workmates. This was spotted by Terry Playle who immediately sent an E-mail asking me to give him a call. He has since been to see us both, and we had a lovely time together, we were chatting away and talking about old times, anyone listening would never have realised, we hadn't seen each other for 50 plus years. Hopefully we will meet again soon. And if you look at the Memories page could you take the H out of Wybrow please. Cheers
Eddie Wybrow Private Reply Public Reply

From Daniel: Extra 'H' removed.

29-Mar-2009: Hello Daniel, just come across your website while looking at Walthamstow links. It's brilliant.
My Grandfather Frederick William GREGORY lived in Clarence Road, Higham Hill, Walthamstow, with his wife Emily and several children, according to the 1911 census. He worked for the GPO as a porter/ sorter. He was 38 at that time. He died in 1931 from broncho-pneumonia at the age of 59, and had been living at Oatland Rise, which I think is off of St Andrew's Road.
Are there any of his relatives still in Walthamstow? Any more information we can get would be a great help. He was a very elusive man. Regards,
Josie Gregory Private Reply Public Reply

28-Mar-2009: Hi Daniel, Have just read John Newell's latest offering, very enjoyable. The cinema he was trying to remember was the Plaza. But for me the surprise was seeing my wife's brother Ken Asprey, sadly he died in 1995, we had some lovely times with Ken, and we keep them, going when his daughter Tina comes to see us.
I hope John reads this sometime, and perhaps he might E-mail me. Cheers, from
Eddie Wybrow Private Reply Public Reply

26-Mar-2009: Hi, I was wondering if you have received any inquiries from people concerning the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes? My grandfather, Thomas Roberts, was a member before he immigrated to Canada in 1923. Attached is the reply from the ROAB below.
My father used to live at 24 Countess Road (where my father was born). I checked the UK maps, and Upper Gornal is two hours away from Walthamstow! I never thought that perhaps the Waltham Forest office would have any info on the ROAB. Thank you

Dear Mrs Rector, Records on members of the Order are restricted to the person’s full name and Lodge of admission only and contain no personal information at all and on checking our records I have found no trace of his membership, until the middle 1930’s, all records were kept at a local Lodge level until centralised at this Office and if he was not an active member at that time, no details of his membership would have been forwarded to this Office.
For your information the Britannia Lodge No 5663 which met in Upper Gornal closed on the 29th.March, 1984.Yours sincerely W.A.C. Hartmann - Grand Primo

Janice Rector Private Reply Public Reply

24-Mar-2009: Hello, would like feed backs on Walthamstow and would be interested if anyone has any photos of my old school William Morris.Thank you and best wishes,
Norma Grundy
(née Bishop) Private Reply Public Reply

From Daniel: W.Morris school picture here

24-Mar-2009: Thank you for providing such a wonderful site for ex- E17s to share their memories. I was born in E17 in 1937 and lived there through the war years and school days. My best friend and next door neighbour was a boy of my own age: Barry Reader. We lived on Beulah Rd and went to Maynard Rd school together. We parted company when my family moved away in the 1950s. Barry attended Barrett Rd secondary modern school from 1949 to 1953/4. Soon after I emigrated to the USA and totally lost touch. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers me or Barry.
Regards,
(no name) Private Reply Public Reply

24-Mar-2009: Hi John, I have been writing my family history and wondered if anyone could help me please. I lived in Walthamstow at the Crooked Billet around the 1950's in our tobacconist/newsagent shop (Churchward's) on the corner of Empress Parade, next to Waterlow's Sports Ground and opposite the Crooked Billet pub.
I have been unable to locate a photograph of the shop and wondered if any readers could help.
I very much enjoy your website and it has brought back lots of memories. Regards,
Tony Lacey Private Reply Public Reply

24-Mar-2009: Hello Daniel, Following your email today re Walthamstow Memories I clicked randomly on 2006 collection of emails and saw one re the death of Brian Harvey the Walthamstow Avenue winger. I replied and thought you might want to see my letter.
By the way what about a section on Walthamstow Avenue football club a part of Walthamstow remembered by many.
P.S. I remember a Quinn. Higham Hill William Elliott?
My letter as follows:
Hello Alex Wilkinson, I have just found your email from 2006 on Walthamstow remembers. I was a loyal Avenue supporter and remember Brian Harvey nipping along the wing with that shuffle and Bunny Groves on the opposite wing all 5 foot of him. The pleasure they gave. I remember a cup final, cannot remember the year with Brian playing and Jim Lewis forging ahead up front. I remember him playing on amateur forms for Chelsea. Fond memories. Alan Minnall and someone I have recently been in touch with Roy Betts at school with him and I believe Sid Danes also at school with, he played for a season or so. Rented a Ford Popular and drove to the Peterborough game and remember well the games with Manchester United.
Sorry to hear the sad, now much belated news.
I moved from Walthamstow at about 22 and finally finished up in Plymouth overlooking Dartmoor. I was very surprised to see that Green Pond Road was demolished for housing. I have been on the Internet looking for Walthamstow Avenue team, nothing there when did it go and does the name survive?
Thanks for putting the notice on the page it was very welcome indeed.
Best wishes to all

Fred Turner Private Reply Public Reply

22-Mar-2009: Hi John, I have been looking at the fascinating 'Walthamstow Memories' site. The Vestry House museum could help many people with their enquiries. Would it be possible to create a lind to the Vestry House museum - specifically the local studies library and Vestry House Archives? Regards,
Mara Roberts
Marketing & Audience Development Officer
William Morris Gallery and Vestry House Museum

Note from Daniel: links created here

19-Mar-2009: Found this site whilst trying to find the original name of a pub in Markhouse Road. Both sets of my grandparents are from Walthamstow, the family names were The Frett's and the Phillips's. Nanny Ivy Frett lived in Acacia Road for 60 years+ she was bombed out during the war and finally moved away in 2006 at the age of 92. The Phillips family were from Apsley Road. My parents Pauline Frett and Vic Phillips were brought up in Walthamstow and married in St.Saviours church some 40 odd years ago. The Frett family still have their fruit and veg stalls in Walthamstow Market as they have for many years. To my knowledge my nan Ivy Frett is the oldest surviving member of the Frett family. Anyone wishing to get in touch please do. Regards,
Donna White Private Reply Public Reply

12-Mar-2009: Hi Brian, I have found the following, hope it's what your're looking for:
Thomas Haggar, Male, Christening Date: 29 Apr 1810, Christening Place: Walthamstow, Essex, England
Father's Name: Stephen Haggar - Mother's Name: Clarissa
Source Citation: Place: Walthamstow, Essex, England; Collection: St Mary; -; Date Range: 1684 - 1830; Film Number: 1564135.
Daniel J Quinn Private Reply Public Reply

12-Mar-2009: Does anyone have any information about a Chatters or Hagger family living in Walthamstow in about 1810? I am particularly interested in finding a baptism record for Thomas (Hagger or Chatters) who was born about 1810 and who was transported to Australia in 1829. Thanks.
Brian Chatters Private Reply Public Reply

10-Mar-2009: I would really like to be able to request help through "Walthamstow Memories" with lookups at the cemeteries recommended by Norman Bird:
"The staff in the office at Chingford Mount cemetery should be able to tell you where your people are buried if they are in Chingford Mount or Queens Road cemetery, Walthamstow.
Cemetery Superintendant Registrar
Chingford Mount Cemetery
121 Old Church Road - Chingford - London E4 6ST
Tel. 020 8524 5030 Fax. 020 8523 7944 ."

We were in London twice, but only for a day or two each time, and then in South Kensington. Never got near Walthamstow. Living in the Chicago suburbs with no specific knowledge in time and space of the Walthamstow area, my efforts at research there have come to very little. Many thanks,
Ed Broecker Private Reply Public Reply

01-Mar-2009: Does anyone have any information about St Augustins Convent somewhere in the Walthamstow area round about the 1st World War. My Mother in Law, born to an unmarried Amy Spencer was put in the care of the nuns there in about 1914 or 15. We have very little more to go on so anything would be appreciated. Regards,
Bob Waight Private Reply Public Reply

26-Feb-2009: Dear John, I am one of those infrequent visitors to your website and indulge myself when I do log on. Can only say that you have brought back so many memories and a lot of pleasure over the years. I have downloaded some of the pictures and information at times (just priceless). This has been included with the famiily history tree and memoirs I have been researching and writing for my sons. Was delighted to receive the newsletter - another pleasure. Thanks so much John, for all your work, and must say it means so much to keep alive those memories of my growing up in Walthamstow. Regards,
Barbara Warren
(Victoria, Australia) Private Reply Public Reply

25-Feb-2009: Hello John, Firstly may I thank you for sending me Walthamstow Memories. Looking through the Gallery brought back memories from long ago. Let me explain. I was born at Thorpe Coombe in January 1948. I am not sure of your age but my parents lived with yours in Howard Road at 145A which I guess was upstairs maybe. My Mother told the tale of her tripping while pushing me in my pram down the hill in Howard Road and scraping the skin from her knees understandably not letting go of the pram.

I am told we moved out in 1949 / 50 to a house at 4 Hale End Road just up Forest Road. Your Dad taught me at Woodside School and I can be found second from the left on the back row. I remember him being of such a large stature and with a booming voice which kept me in trim, also due to the contact he had with my family. My parents Millicent (Milly) and Fred kept in contact with your Dad for some years.

We then moved to Ash Vale on the Surrey Hants Border in 1960. Prior to attending Woodside I spent my infant days at Thorpe Hall School and then following Woodside, I attended Chapel End, which I understand has now been demolished, until we moved.

As for the Town Hall I has my model yacht stolen from the circular pond outside and was in big trouble for that as I had been given it that day as a present.

Oh memories. I am sure that I sent the photos of Woodside 1958 to you some years ago, if not you, then to a name who was associated with Wathamstow. It's very strange coincidence as I intended to visit the area last Thursday with my wife to take some photographs of number 145 Howard Road and 4 Hale End after attending a hospital in Tooting but we were delayed there and time was not on our side, but we intend to complete the trip some time later this year.

Thanks once again and hope you find this of some interest. Regards

Chris Warner Private Reply Public Reply

From John: Chris, This is fascinating! I lived at 145 Howard Rd from about 1945/6 until I went to college in October 1963. We lived upstairs and the people who I remember lived downstairs were a Mr. and Mrs. Bradley but my memory of them was from about 1956 onwards and I was not aware of who lived beneath us until then. Upstairs next door in 147 (?) lived an old lady Mrs. Miller who frightened the life out of me and beneath them Mr and Mrs. Moore. He was the grandfather of Roger Moore the actor (I think his wife was either a second marriage or they were not actually married). Roger I remember visited the flat once with his wife (Dorothy Squires ?) in a pink Cadillac! I am told by my sister that I look very much like my Dad in build and I definitely have his booming voice! Great to hear from you - I will add your email to the website plus anything more you care to remember. All best wishes, John

24-Feb-2009: Dear John, my Grandfather, George James Wood, lived on Greville Road from about 1926 till his death in 1949, with his wife Annie Louisa Knight, who was a widow; her maiden name may have been Brown. George is buried in Walthamstow Cemetery but Annie isn't; I'd love to know what became of Annie.". Thank you.
Carolyn Lofquist
Toronto Private Reply Public Reply

24-Feb-2009: Hello John,
I came across your site last night and think it is great.

I was born in Thorpe Coombe in April 1942 and lived in Kitchener Road until I got married in 1965. My wife and I then lived in a Warners Flat in Third Avenue until we bought our first house in Witham, Essex with the assistance of a 100% GLC mortgage. We now live outside Norwich.

I went to Chapel End Infants and Junior school from 1947 until 1953. Mr Hinds was the Headmaster and the teachers I remember were Miss Philmore, Miss Drew and Mr Ling. Mr Ling was a wonderful teacher. As well as making the normal lessons interesting with lots of anecdotal information, he also used to sell us used postage stamps from around the world at break time. I bought a second hand stamp album from him. I remember the pages were labelled with such names as Madagascar, Winward Islands and Deutches Reich. It was obviously a pre-war album! What pleasure I had mounting the stamps on the little gummed hinges in the appropritae pages. The stamps from Madagascar were lthe best; large multi-colourd triangle shaped affairs which seemed to me to be priceless but in reality were worth very little.

I was fortunate in passing the 11-plus and went to William Morris Technical School from 1953 to 1960 where I got seven O-levels and two A-levels. The teachers were a mixture of the bizarre, the ordinary and the brilliant. Does anyone remember them? Herbert Williamson was the Head - a Quaker if i remember correctly. He had a large wart on his nose. Miss Kennedy was the sexy blonde who taught History. Mr Bridle taught French. He used to thump away on a piano teaching us to sing "Sur le pont, d'Avingon". He was very temperamental and when he lost it he would hurl pieces of chalk and even the blackboard cleaner at us. Mr Wilmot was similarly inclined. His favourite trick was to slam the heavy blackboard ruler down on your desk, inches from your fingers. if you incurred his wrath. Eat your heart out you politically correct types.

Then there were the double act of Mssrs Winters and Watkinson who occupied adjacent oiutbuildings. They taught Technical Drawing and Woodwork respectively. Both were ex-RAF and very strict disciplinarians.Both would give you "the stick" at the first opportunity. Winters drove a motorcycle and would roar down Greanleaf Road each morning to the chorus of "Only the best is good enough for Winters whether giving or receiving" from us plebs.

Mr Margetts was the austere Geography teacher who seemed to have had a humour by-pass. Another disciplinarian. Herbert Williamson "contracted out " his disciplinary role to Margetts who seemed to relish the role. Each Wednesday lunchtime those who needed to be punished had to report to the gym in their gym kit where Margetts would be wating with "stick and book". The punishment was always delivered on the backside. between two and six strokes according to the nature of the "offence" committed. Margetts would always check to see that there was no exercise book or other shield secreted in the gym shorts before meteing out the punishment. It was like a public hanging. Outside the doors to the gym would be a crowd of onlookers there to witness the punishments. Anyone who had the temerity to cry or scream with pain paid the price of being labelled a cissy - probably more of a punishment in those days than the stick itself.

But there were also excellent teachers in the mix. Mr Speedyman the Maths teacher taught me to love mathematics and to get and A-level in Pure Maths. Mr H the Physics teacher who taught me to love Physics and to get an A-level in that too. Both had worked other than as classroom teachers so they brought a lot of wordly information to the classroom which made it much more interesting.

But it is uncanny how small the world is. Throughout my life since I moved away from Walthamstow I repeatedly come across people who were born and bred there. I now live in East Anglia so it is not suprising to meet them here as it is a natural place for East Londoners to migrate too. Our neighbours are ex-Walthamstow; he hails from Shernall Street, she from Lynmouth Road. My maternal grandmother also lived in Lynmouth Road. But last year on a ferry between Plymouth and Santander in Spain we got talking to two quite separate people both of whom came from Walthamstow. One was a successful property developer who had lived in South Grove and had bought his first house aged 17 after leaving school with no qualifications. The other was a Chinese lady who had lived in Gosport Road at a time when she and her mother were the only non-white British in the street. Ironically, my wife was brought up in Gosport road and could rmember them well.

I agree with all the people who have sent you emails. Walthamstow in the 1940's, 1950's and early 1960's was a wonderful place to be a child or teenager. As well as the parks and the Forest, and the High Street on Saturday afternoons with its sasparilla stall and Strutts and Clares kipper stall - what about rock and roll records at Sonny Deardens dance hall in Forest Road on a Monday evening? Or dancing at the Town Hall or the South West tech on alternate Saturday evenings? If I missed the night bus then I used to walk home from Gosport Road to Kitchener Road in the early hours of the morning without any fear of being attacked. Could you do that now I wonder?

So, in conclusion, I would like to quote a line from one of Country singer Merle Haggard songs which I believe sums up coming from Walthamstow: "The roots of my raising were good".

Bye now you'all!

Roy Beiley Private Reply Public Reply

23-Feb-2009: Norman, Daniel and other list members, Thank you.
We live in suburban Chicago and have no good way of checking for these burials. Is it possible for someone there to contact the cemetery for us. Of course we are willing to do the same here in the Chicago, Illinois area for those in England. We are glad to share our information on my wife's EDWARDS family of Wales, Walthamstow, Brighton and New Jersey/Florida/Texas here in the States. The father of Arthur (C.A.) EDWARDS was Thomas Roberts(on) EDWARDS; siblings Herbert Stanley(Spencer) EDWARDS, Maud EDWARDS GAMMON, Howell Tudor EDWARDS, and Lawrence Vincent EDWARDS.
Herbert and Howell lived in New Jersey and Florida; Lawrence in Texas; and Maud in the Brighton, England area.
I will be grateful for your help.
Ed Broecker Private Reply Public Reply

23-Feb-2009: I am having no luck in getting info from ex school students from Chapel End Secondary modern who lived in the area and were in classes 4AU 1951 4Sp & 4Su 1952 maybe some will see this and reply? Regards,
Gerry Creasey Private Reply Public Reply

23-Feb-2009: Love the first newsletter, thank you for sending it to me. It's a great idea, and thanks to all who are giving it their precious time and effort, Best wishes,
Hilary Redman Private Reply Public Reply

23-Feb-2009: Hello! I am very interested in corresponding through your newsletter. Among others, I am trying to find death and burial information for Arthur or C.A. Edwards and his wife Maud Mary, nee Lovell, who lived at 12 Pearl Road from about 1930 through 1959 or so. I have a timeline for them that is quite confusing. Regards
Ed Broecker Private Reply Public Reply

23-Feb-2009: Thanks for putting Antonio on WM, I was pleased with that and I have already received an email from Sylvia Baigent in Canada about it. She has an article on the Personal Stories page. Regards
Norman Bird Private Reply Public Reply

22-Feb-2009: Hello! Here's my Grandfather Antonio Ferrari with his ice-cream barrow. I don't know when this photo was taken, but it must have been before war-time rationing was introduced because he had to stop when he could no longer obtain the ingredients. I believe his round was in the streets off Blackhorse Lane in Walthamstow. During the winter, he sold baked potatos outside the Chequers pub in the High Street. He was born in 1870 in Roggio, Italy, and came to London as a young man, He married Annie Beeches in 1902 and they lived in Side Road, which is adjacent to St James street station, Walthamstow, where they had a very small shop with two rooms above, and there they produced thirteen (13!) children. I think they only sold ice-cream in the shop. He died in 1944.

1920s - Antonio Ferrari and his ice-cream barrow

Regards,
Norman Bird Private Reply Public Reply

22-Feb-2009: Hi, I am Howard Watling, a friend of John Knowles, as I founded the Spartans Rock Group.
I am interested in your picture of The Blue Dukes, because I bought my first Electric Guitar (a Hofner club 50) from Johnny Erkert (Urquhurt?) who was the Lead Guitarist with the Blue Dukes. Their Bass Guitarist (Ken ?) lived in the first road on the right going down Walthamstow High Street, from where , for a time a guitar teacher, who went by the name of Al Bernard, (real name Allen Bernard Coyne) taught many aspiring Guitarists on Saturdays, myself & Johnny included. He was a Jazz Musician, so I used to have to learn Jazz, re-time it as Rock'n'Roll, then go back next week & play it to him as Jazz.
Johnny was an excellent, guitarist & the night I arranged to collect my Club 50, the Blue Dukes were playing supporting Johnny Kidd & the Pirates at the George Moneaux School. The arrangement was that, as I had already paid for it, I collect it during the interval, after they had finished their set. During the interval, John came over & introduced Johnny Kidd's Guitarist, to ask whether he could borrow my Guitar, as the Pirate's kit had not turned up, & so they borrowed the Blue Dukes gear, including my guitar for the night.
Other local bands were The Starliners, from Highams Park.
(From Memory Mick Dewey; Bass, John Grindley; Rhythm, Roger Crooks; Lead, & Barry Raven; Keyboards I can't remember the Drummer or singer, but they used all Fender Guitars & Amps)
Dale Martin (or Stevens?) & Group 5, with Tony Atkins who lived near Simmons Lane Bridge , Friday Hill (played a Hofner President). Their singer was called Colin, & played an Electric solid Ukulele.
The Gunners, who used to play at Wellington Ave Youth Centre, with a Lead Guitarist called Kenny Rio, & a Bass Guitarist who used to also play Malaguena on an Electric Guitar. I once saw Jimmy Page there standing in for their regular guitarist, & he was kind enough to show me a few tips in the interval. This was before he became famous, but he was still Brilliant, & very encouraging.
They used to play venues like the Bell Walthamstow, Heathcote School etc.
If any more come to mind, I will let you know. I would be glad to hear from any of the above, or anyone who remembers seeing the Spartans, but doubt they will remember me. Yours sincerely,
Howard Watling Private Reply Public Reply

14-Feb-2009: Hi John, what a great web site, some memories there! I like yourself was born in Walthamstow, Thorpe Coombe Hospital, Forest Road, to be exact, in 1951. I attended Thorpe Hall School, Wood Street School, and finally finished my education at Chapel End Secondary Modern. I also am a musician, a drummer to be precise, I am still at it, there's a pic of you and Ian Purdy, well I nearly fell of my chair when I saw that, he has been the only person to give me any tuition. At the time he lived in Victoria Road and I believe had just married, I think he worked for the Halifax at the Bakers Arms. Did he belong to the band The Skyways? I remember they used to play the Granada on Sunday afternoons between the programmes. Also there's mentions of the Alexander Pattern, I too used to go to the Bell and sneak a few halves of mild, 9d if my memory serves. I really liked this band, they were one of my earliest influences. Once again I looked at one of your pics and saw Jim Mitchell the singer, what a great bloke he is, later on in the early seventies he became a roadie for the band I was in at the time. I have very good memories of Walthamstow, some day I will have to write them down, I now also live in Norfolk and like it very much, however I don't think I will ever forget the times I had in Walthamstow, Cheers John, be lucky,
Keith Shepherd Private Reply Public Reply

Dear John, It is a bit of a long shot but I am trying to trace details of my Grandfather George Harold Smith. (known as Harold) He died in 1917 due to Typhoid leaving my mother an orphan at 18 months and me with no details of his family. What I do know is that his father had three greengrocers shops and one was in Walthamstow, one in Leyton and one in Leytonstone. I don't know if the family business went on under the same name but I would be keen to hear from anyone who might be related or know anything of this family. Harold married my grandmother May Osborn and worked in the same trade in Covent Garden till his untimely death. My Uncle remembers his Grandfather as a dapper gent in a waistcoat in 1926.
Dan Kennedy Private Reply Public Reply

Hello, I looked at your website with interest; I am a local researcher living in St Andrews Scotland. I have a second world War Medal in its mailer box, its the standard British War Medal and it has a condolence scroll in the box in the name of Pte Rosina Florence HUTTON. I have found her on the CWG site as died on 19/01/1945 and being buried at Chingford Mount Cemetary. Rosina was a member of the ATS and I was hoping to be able to shed light on how this lady (aged 23 ) died. The medal box was posted to her Mother ,a Mrs Hurrell who lived in Copper Mill Lane Walthamstow E17. Rosina was married to a man from Kinross in Scotland. Do you know of any German V1 or V2 attacks in January 1945? The history is vague in this area. I was also looking to see what war memorial she is remembered on. Any help would be well received. Regards.
Max Espie Private Reply Public Reply

Hello John! My name is Christopher Page and I was brought up in Walthamstow (in Devonshire Rd., off Boundary Road). It seems to me that your site gives me a chance to do something I have always wanted to do, which is to thank the Walthamstow people (most of them the parents of those who will read this) who paid for my education. After attending George Monoux Gramar School (as it then was) I went to Oxford where, every Term, a grant cheque was waiting for me from the local education authority. I am now the Vice-Master of a College in Cambridge, and I will always remember that it was the taxpayers and rate-payers of Walthamstow who helped me get here. Good luck to you all, now and forever!
Christopher Page

Hello John, wonder if you can advise me. I saw your website. What a great idea! I’ve just turned 65 this week, & to celebrate thought I’d try & track down my first serious girlfriend. Trouble is, she has a common name - Jenny Thomas - & probably changed it when she got married (to someone else, sadly). But I still remember how exciting it was in my early 20s for us to catch the last train to Higham’s Park from Liverpool St station, to get her home, probably around 11 pm, then snogging a bit in the carriage, before persuading her Mum that I’d have to stay the night in the, ahem, spare room! It was all so innocent then, wasn’t it? Here’s what I know. She’d be around 60 now, lived when I knew her along the Hale End Road in Higham’s Park, had a brother Bernard who was a plasterer, & another brother who was a policeman. Can’t recall if it was Metropolitan or City. His name was David I think. Both were a little older than her. Her Dad was Victor who was a tailor’s cutter, & dear old Mum was Violet; & I recall Vi often ran the tea shop in the Forest. They would both be in their 90s now, if still alive. I thought of checking the electoral rolls for Vic, & getting Jenny’s exact date of birth from that, but as I’m in Canada for the last 40 years, not so easy. Any ideas of how to go about tracking Jenny down? Hope you don’t mind my asking your advice, Thanks & Happy New Year,
Barry Elias Private Reply Public Reply

Hello John, Like many respondents, I found your website by chance, and I very much admire what you have done! I've not read much yet - it's late at night and to be honest, I was about to shut the pc down - but I will come back to look and read a lot more. I'll also tell my sister about it, as I am sure she would be interested. I was born in Thorpe Coombe Hospital in 1956, and my sister was born at home in Rectory Road 18 months later. Our parents were both Walthamstow people; dad died last year but mum is still there, and I visit a couple of times a year. Changed a lot hasn't it!! But its the things that survive that fascinate me. If I can, I will write my own Walthamstow memories on here one day. Many of my childhood recollections are clearer than things that happened a lot later. I will enjoy reading other folk's offerings - I'm sure they'll set off a lot more that's hidden away in my own memory banks! Regards,
Tom Playle Private Reply Public Reply

Dear Mr. Knowles,
I am looking for decendants of Victor Albert Wilde, who served during WWI in the British Navy. He was born in 1894 and eventually lived on Keith Road, Walthamstow. In Aug. 1918, his tanker, S.S. Mirlo, was attacked and sunk by a German U-boat off the North Carolina coast (USA). WIlde and 40 other shipmates were rescued by men of the United States Life-Saving Service at Chicamacomico, NC (now Rodanthe, NC, USA). He was married. He had a son, Peter. After his rescue he returned home as "distressed British seamen" in time to see his daughter born, who was named "Mirlo" in honor of his ship. She eventually had a daughter who she also named "Mirlo".
If anyone can help me locate ANY descendants of Mr. Wilde, please contact me as soon as possible.
I am the Site Operations Manager for the:

Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site & Museum, P.O. Box 5, Rodanthe, NC, 27968-0005, USA. 252-987-1552. email Chicamacomico Historical Association
Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic Site & Museum
23645 NC Hwy. 12
P.O. Box 5 Rodanthe,
NC 27968-0005
Ph: 252-987-1552

Honoring Our Heroes...Preserving Our Past.
(no name) Private Reply Public Reply