The Park is but nine miles from Hyde Park Corner, and the District Railway has planted a station just outside its walls, but in ordinary times, when one steps across the road, and passes through the lodge doors, the roar and traffic of the city … Continue reading Osterley Park 1920
By train through George and Mabel’s world
We have been in Surrey. We flew into Gatwick airport the other night and stayed at a B and B in Horley. We caught a train the next day into London, passing through Redhill, Merstham, Norwood Junction and New Cross before finally getting off at … Continue reading By train through George and Mabel’s world
Who was George Lilley, and where did he come from?
George Lilley, resident in Reigate in 1901, listed his place of birth as Norwood, Surrey. But George Simmonds, who I have come to believe was one and the same person as George Lilley, listed his place of birth as Walton-on-the-Hill, Surrey. Why should I believe … Continue reading Who was George Lilley, and where did he come from?
“Married 10 years”
The 1911 census is fascinating as it pertains to George and Mabel Simmonds, of Heston, Middlesex. As can be seen from this document, George and Mabel had been married 10 years and lived in Hounslow. Their address, recorded elsewhere on the document, was 10 Courtney Place, … Continue reading “Married 10 years”
Mabel and Osterley
A question that has fascinated me is how Mabel Simmonds, formerly Butler, of Heston, Middlesex, wife of a market gardener and carman before WWI, could have been invited to garden parties at the spectacular Osterley House, which was so close to where the young family … Continue reading Mabel and Osterley
Forgotten tales 