Postbag 2010

21 Jul 2010 - General: Just had a look at the postcard section... Brilliant like the rest of the site. 2 postcards in particular are what I have been looking for for years... St Andrews Church Higham Hill. I was beginning to think that I had dreamt about this church. I lived opposite the old church and remembered it being pulled down. Do you know of any other info about this church? Thanks.
Andy JUDD [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

21 Jul 2010 - Topography: I wonder if you could make something clearer to me. Whilst researching ancestry, I find in the 1881 census two references to members of my family living in Cambridge Rd Walthamstow. Looking into A/Z of London, I can only find that rd under E11. That rd appears to be very close to a number of borough boundaries. Would that be the correct one? There don't appear to be any others. Regards.
Michael NEIGHBOUR [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

21 Jul 2010 - Lost & Found: Anyone who was at William Mc Guffie in the mid to late 50s, I wonder if they knew The Knights, Carol & Charlie, Brian Veasey & Ken Catlin, and does anyone know where they may have ended up. I've found Mike Denton, (lives in OZ), Joyce White, (lives in West Sussex) & Lesley Nickerson (Aldershot), Alan Ellis (Suffolk). Great site guys !! regards
Brian WILLIAMS [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

20 Jul 2010 - Lost & Found: Hi, I put a piece on your board about a Marjorie Bradshaw, who was looking for someone who might be able to tell her about a sister Connie that she thought her Mother Ethel had had when Marjorie was about 6 to 8 years old, I had spelt her name wrong and also given her date of birth as 1928, but she was actually born in 1917, could you please put this corrected version on, sorry to have got it wrong before.Thank you,
Patricia [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

17 Jul 2010 - Warwick Secondary Boys School. Swimming photos from 1956/57:
1st Photo - Left to Right: ? , Brian McGuiness, myself Stuart Craig, Phil Harper, Clive Scott, Bernard Hollingberry?
2nd Photo - I cannot remember all the names but I am in the front row 2nd right
Can anybody remember me? or any of the other swimmers
Stuart CRAIG - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Swimming 1956-57
Warwick Secondary Boys School. Swimming photos from 1956/57
Left to Right: ? , Brian McGuiness, myself Stuart Craig, Phil Harper, Clive Scott, Bernard Hollingberry?

Warwick Secondary Boys School. Swimming photos from 1956/57
I am in the front row 2nd right

15 Jul 2010 - For all you Whipps Cross Lido fans - Please see the attachment
Whipps Cross Lido
This is where the muddy Whipps Cross Lido used to be! Location: Snaresbrook Road, Walthamstow
Description: The Hollow Ponds Bathing Pool was dug out here in 1905 and fed by natural springs at this Southern edge of Epping Forest. Despite works to progressively line the bathing pond with concrete in the 1920s, the pool remained renowned for its mud!
In 1932 6,000 was spent, in a joint effort by Leyton & Walthamstow borough councils, to further improve conditions for swimming. Four large dressing rooms were provided and a great deal of mud was reportedly removed from the bottom of the pool during the work to level and cleanse the pool. The pool was still described as irregularly oval at this stage, but with a straight 100 yard section for racing. This very large pool, 300ft by 130ft, was also connected to a unique 63ft diameter and 10ft deep circular diving basin. The pool was closed for 2 summers in 1970 and 1971, but was reopened after a 29,000 refurbishment. It was reported that the pool suffered from extensive vandalism during 1970-71 and 24-hour security was introduced when the pool was re-opened to combat this problem. The pool was closed for good in September 1982 and was demolished in 1983. Difficult to spot now, since it was filled in. Respects
Bill BAYLISS - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

14 Jul 2010 - Hello David, I have just been looking at this same photograph on Facebook and would I be right in saying that this photo was taken in Gamuel Road and that the end of the road is Longfellow road with the Recreation ground beyond?
I was at this school until around 1948, I think, and I was intrigued to see one comment on facebook stating that in 1949 they were using Slates and chalk, I really do doubt that but when were you there and what do you think.
Also, I have seen a photo somewhere where a class at that school had tiered desks i.e. higher at the back of the class, does anyone recall that because I don't.
I always knew the school as Gamuel road but I see now that Thomas Gamuel is used to describe it.

Len HALL, Australia - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

13 Jul 2010 - Hi Daniel, here are a couple of photos, would they go in the postbag or gallery or both? There is a photo of Gamuel school just before it went and a couple of early class pics. Cheers
Dave TOOTILL - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Gamuel School, Walthamstow - 1980
Thomas Gamuel Primary School, Walthamstow - in 1980

Gamuel School - Class 1951
Thomas Gamuel Primary School - class 1951

Thomas Gamuel Primary School - class 1952

12-Jul-2010 - Lost & Found: : Hi, i am a friend of a Margorie Blyth who was born in Walthamstow in 1928 as Margorie Bradshaw, (or Mason) she has been told that she had a Sister named Connie or Constance that was born when she was a few years old, but who she never got to meet, she has been told this by a friend, but he doesn't know anything else about what happened to this baby, and Margorie is now curious as to what happened as she could still be alive, and would be her only Sister, she would be delighted to find anything out about her before it is too late. Regards,
Patricia [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

11 Jul 2010 - Family History: GOULD - Desperate to find what happened to my Grandmother Elsie Gertrude Gould, born 21/1/1907 in Hackney, but lived in Walthamstow at 25 Warner Road with her mother Amanda and her new husband Frederick Fitch (they married in 1920). Elsie's father, Charles Thomas Gould, died in 1919. I know Elsie was still in Walthamstow in 1927 (my father David Gould was born in 1926), but unable to find out what happened to Elsie after 1927. My father was brought up by Amanda and Frederick Fitch, so what happened to Elsie is the question. Checked the death records up to the present day no sign of her. Assumed she married. Apparently the electoral records for Walthamstow between 1922-1931 were destroyed in the 2nd World War. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
Christine GOULD-PAGE - (from chat lounge) [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

11 Jul 2010 - Hi Daniel, Thanks for your reply. I have found about a 100 ranging from about 80 to 86, i cannot find any of the earlier ones but i only really got into photography as a hobby at the end of the 70s. Some of the colour ones are a bit rough as they were in the early albums and were affected by the pages ( we all found out too late ) but i will scan some and send them on to you. Here are a few to start, if they are OK then many to follow later. cheers Dave
Dave TOOTILL - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

From Daniel:: Dear Dave, I have opened a new page for your pictures in the "Personal Memories" section [here]

11 Jul 2010 - Hello Daniel, as Pam and I will be celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary on August the 27th 2010, I have dug up this little bit of memorabilia from my archives. I have enlarged it as much as possible but it may not be enough to read it. Maybe you could add the item to my list of memories.
There are a few things wrong with the report that was in the Enfield newspaper a few years ago. A lot of trains have gone under the bridge at Cheshunt since the first time I pushed my wife Pam over it. The paper got the number of children wrong because we do have four and now we have nine grandchildren too. Also we are both 72 at present. (Also the email address shown in the report is incorrect as now it is lcpmhall@bigpond.com)
All of these things must be keeping you busy at the moment and I know you are having a break soon. Goodbye for now
Len & Pam HALL, Australia - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

(Click on the above picture to enlarge)

From Daniel:: Dear Len, my warmest congratulations for your 50th! I'm glad Pam survived from you 'pushing her over the bridge' 50 years ago!! (Sorry, I couldn't help the joke!)

Make sure you send us a few pictures of that special day. Kindest regards

10 Jul 2010 - Memories section: Hi Again, Another photograph of myself on the left, then Roy Hannibal, then Lou, taken near Whipps Cross roundabout with the Lido not far behind us. And Lambs Cafe in front of us just over the roundabout in Lea Bridge road which led to the Bakers Arms...
Michael BUCKMASTER - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Michael Buckmaster - Whipps Cross - 1960

9 Jul 2010 - Schooldays: Hi Daniel, another old class photo: hope this one counts as its Selwyn Avenue School in Highams park. I know several pupils lived in walthamstow at that time. I think this must have been about 1957 - Im second row from bottom 7th one in. Thanks.
Lynne NEWTON - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Selwyn Avenue School-Highams park 1957
Selwyn Avenue School in Highams park - 1957

9 Jul 2010 - Public reply: Hello Michael and others because I am now testing Daniel’s newest feature which is the public reply, I feel like a guinea pig doing this.
Anyway you would be a similar age to myself, as I am 73 next month, and I lived in the alleyway at the bottom of Queens road (101 Markhouse road, see memories) until 1960, when we were married. I can’t say I remember you at the time, but perhaps we were ships in the night as the saying goes.
I must say if I saw you now in your ‘Budgie smugglers’ I would remember you, be warned never wear anything like that on a beach in Perth or you would cause a riot.
From what I hear about the weather there at present the Lido would have been a good place to go and cool down. Over here it is winter and so wet this morning I gave my usual 6am bike ride a miss as I hate wet cold weather which is why I live in Perth and not the United Kingdom.
Len HALL, Australia - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

9 Jul 2010 - Hi Daniel, I dont know if you would remember me writing to you, but I think I was the first one on your postbag in 2001. I have looked at your site again quite a few times and must say it is certainly getting big and very interesting.
I have attached an old photo of myself, more for fun than anything else. It was taken on my front doorstep when I think I was 2 years old. I lived at 51, Pembroke Road, where I was born and now live in Lowestoft. I am now 65 years old. Keep up the good work. Cheers.
Dave TOOTILL - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

GRUMPY-Dave Tootill-1947
Dave Tootill - Pembrook Rd- 1947(?)

From Daniel:: I think you very well deserve our "1st Walthamstow Memories Fidelity Award" (alas! Only a 'virtual one'..!), for being such an affectionate visitor, Dave!
Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Kindest regards

9 Jul 2010 - Memories section: Hi, I have a photograph of me taken in the Lido in 1959/60 when I was about 21. Fantastic place to meet up at weekends. So SAD it has gone! I would love to meet up with some of my old mates.By the way I lived in Queens Road Walthamstow..
Michael BUCKMASTER - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Michael Buckmaster- Lido, Walthamstow 1959
Michael Buckmaster - Lido, Walthamstow 1959/60

5 Jul 2010 - General: Daniel, Thank you. I went into Google and found the website. I would like to make three suggestions:

on the newsletter, include a live link to the website.
provide an index of surnames mentioned in the emails.
capitalize all surnames in emails.

Again, there is no criticism intended, and I am grateful for your work on this endeavor.
Ed BROECKER - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Daniel's reply:: Hi, Ed. Many thanks for your good suggestions. I always welcome good advice on how the site can be improved. The first: a link - perhaps not so explicit - is in the lower part of the newsletter - the 'Why not visit now' bit. I shall follow your tip and make it more evident. The second I had in fact thought of, but was waiting for feedback on my proposal to create a 'thumbnail-picture gallery' of our visitors, which would also contain the names + email address list. An 'address book' page would be useful if you needed to contact someone you know, but not much more, if the person's messages are not linked to it - and that's slightly difficult to manage. Of course, there is a 'search' box at the top of the home page, which can be used to look-up names...
The third suggestion I shall put into practice now onwards - it certainly helps spotting a surname. Kindest regards

4 Jul 2010 - Len Hall's D-Day: I see Daniel has already directed you to Wikipedia's explanation:

D-Day is a term often used in military parlance to denote the day on which a combat attack or operation is to be initiated. "D-Day" often represents a variable, designating the day upon which some significant event will occur or has occurred; see Military designation of days and hours for similar terms. The initial D in D-Day has had various meanings in the past, while more recently it has obtained the connotation of "Day" itself, thereby creating the phrase "Day-Day", or "Day of Days".[1] On the same principle, the equivalent terms in French, Basque, Romanian and Slovenian are Jour J, E eguna, Ziua-Z, and Dan D.

Dunkirk was in 1940, and no cause for street parties, as it was an ignominious defeat, not a glorious victory - though there are those who confuse it with a triumphant homecoming. I think your Dad was confusing D-Day (June 6th 1944 - the beginning of the Normandy landings) with VE Day (Victory in Europe) in May 1945. VJ Day meant Victory in Japan, but I'm 99% sure there was never a VD Day! I hope that helps.
Pam Stockwell - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - Daniel, another picture for your site. I've obviously no problem with people taking copies of any pictures I send you, but would ask them to credit me with the originals.
I think the (cadet?) recorded on the last page of this card may actually have been Alfred Shead (pronounced 'Shed'?) who is on the section of the electoral register you now have. This card, that register section and other bits and pieces were given to me stored together in a plastic wallet among a small bundle of photos by a friend who knew I collected Essex pictures and documents. My friend, who salvaged this stuff - I didn't ask him where from - is not around to ask any longer, but he did say it all came from the same couple who were both dead..
The Sheads were either shoe repairers or had a shoe shop in Walthamstow, I need to check which, My guess is that Alfred Shead was either a canvasser, election agent, candidate for the council or even a councillor, hence the canvassing notations on the register section.
If Shead was a councillor and we knew what period he was in office, it would give us a clearer idea of the date of that register section. As it was canvassed, the section would relate to one of the election years during which Shead was in office, that would probably narrow it down to between, say, one to four or five years. Shead appears to have been alive in 1973, it may be around that time when he died.
Colleen Morrison - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Walthamstow, Air Training Corps Welfare Fund Card
Air Training Corps Welfare Fund Card

Air Training Corps Welfare Fund Card, interior

4 Jul 2010 - Hi Cuz, delighted to see you're making use of the info I recently sent to you about this fantastic site! It's a great way of bringing us closer together. No doubt you'll have read my articles under Family History about our STEWART ancestors & their period in Walthamstow. Although nothing CONCRETE, as yet, think I might have uncovered some info relating to our Gt.Grandpa James STEWARTs first marriage!? Did you ever have any luck in this direction? Hope all well with you & yours in Australia. Love,
Pam Ray - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - My dad's (Eddie BANKS) job meant doing lots of quirky pictures, one job I remember he did was to produce programs for the Walthamstow Dog Track and Speedway, I believe he took the job over when someone else gave it up. I'm unsure of the date but it would have been late 1930s to late 1940s or even early 1950s. I've seen some of these programs on ebay, though I haven't been quick enough to snap one up yet. I think I can recognise my dad's style in some of these programs. If anyone has one of these programs to post, I would be very interested to see it.
My dad also worked as a newspaper artist/cartoonist and had some cartoon and caricature series in the Walthamstow Guardian. One cartoon series was called 'SPEEDWAY SMILES', another was called 'USELESS EUSTACE': they were both about lazy speedway riders who had beautiful wives, if I recall them correctly. For another series, my dad drew characters of football stars (Walthamstow Avenue and Spurs) and local politicians: He was given a free press pass to White Hart Lane for painting or drawing some of the old Spurs stars. Sadly, my mum burnt my dad's portfolio after he died as she found it too painful to have around. I've had a look at the Archives at Walthamstow Museum without finding copies of these, though I went with such a lot of things that I wanted to look up and ended up half brain dead from over excitement and from staring at those microfilm/fiche machines. I need to make further visits and stay calm next time!
Colleen Morrison - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - Thanks for the email and your interest in my photo: The cafe was next to the Walthamstow Bus Depot in Chingford Road in between the Bell Corner and the Monoux Boys School, and was sometimes known as Depot Corner, and my friends and I used to hang out there when we had nothing better to do and the owner, Fred, called us his angels for some unknown reason! Regards,
Tony Lacey - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - Hello Daniel, I agree with everything you have suggested in the recent newsletter, so please go ahead and implement the improvements as you suggested.
I am also now looking at a Facebook site, where I have narrowed it down to a group known as Walthamstow Times i.e. I have culled out all of the childish stuff that occurs on Facebook. I know that some of those members are also looking in at Walthamstow Memories too.
One amusing incident occurred yesterday, when a member sent in some street party photos i.e. VE and VJ day, she also sent one of D-day and when I asked if that meant Dunkirk Day she asked her dad and he replied that it was on VDday. Knowing what VD normally means I found this rather funny. So does anyone have an idea what D-day means?
Len Hall, Australia - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

From Daniel: Hello Len, many thanks for kind words. A good definition of D-Day is given in Wikipedia. Kindest regards.

4 Jul 2010 - Hi Daniel, Just received your email many thanks I am so pleased that at least I can here some news from Walthamstow and surrounding areas living so far away it brings me closer to home which I appreciate. There is a few People that I have tried to find but it has been such a long while ago they could be dead now. Have you got births Marriages' and death Colum that I can go through for each Year until the present day?
I also wonder if you had thought of having a get together club say down at the park where interested People can meet and maybe find who they are looking for. Maybe have a sausage sizzle. Get the people to let you know if they could come if they are then you will know how many people that you have to cater for. You could charge them so much for the sausage sizzle then send them tickets for the sizzle.
We do this a lot to bring people then you can set up games like three legged race egg and spoon race would the people go for that sort of thing over there now. But it's a wonderful way that the people can get together. Maybe have raffles and the money goes to Thorp Comb hospital or some children association. Also a fancy dress for the kids
I would love to be at home now and really have a good look around we have been in South Australia since 1974 before that we moved to where my husbands family lived Ramsgate Kent but as I was born and reared in Walthamstow I loved it and still do.
OH the Guardian do they have some where I could look though the birth and deaths??
I had better away now, but I would love to come back and see Walthamstow before I die. The frontage of the TOWN HALL is still as beautiful as I remember it. It is a wonderful building so clean looking and so well looked after. Cheers
Lil Keen - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

From Daniel: Hello Lil, many thanks for your message and suggestions: A general 'stow 'gathering' is a great idea! I shall try to develop it, taking into account that many of our visitors are - like yourself - now living a long way away and he journey for the 'do' would be long (The cost, of course, is another issue to ponder!). The Club idea is also a good one, but would be limited to nearby residents. A 'soft' solution could be to suggest a fixed meeting place and date (ie: every Friday at 7pm), after we have organized the first 'gathering'. As for BDM certificates, our site does not intend to compete with the many genealogical sites, a few of which you may find in our 'Links' page. I use Ancestry.co.uk and FindMyPast intensivly for my own family search. If, however, you'd like me to look up a few names I will be glad to do that for you, to give you a 'starting point'. Kindest regards

4 Jul 2010 - My dad, Eddie BANKS, was a pupil of the George Monoux School during the 1920s to 30s. I wonder if anyone has any memories or photos of the school?
Also, my dad, who lived on Billet Road, did art classes in the evening during the late 1930s. I wonder if anyone might have an inkling about where he might have studied? thanks for any help anyone can give.
Colleen Morrison - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - Thanks for the great picture of Fred's Angels' Cafe, can I ask where in Walthamstow it was? Thanks.
Colleen Morrison - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

4 Jul 2010 - Daniel love your site thank you. As soon as I get myself organised I will look out some photos.
May I make a suggestion. On the family history page where you have the A-Z and General, once you click into a letter, ie L can I suggest that you have a back button to go back to the A-Z page. Thank you again for a great site. Regards,
Jacquie Liddiard - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

From Daniel: Good suggestion: will introduce a [return to A-Z index] in each Family History page. On second thoughts, returning to the A-Z index from any page is easily obtained by clicking on the 'Family History' item of the main menu. What I will rather introduce is a [back to top] button on long pages of the site.

4 Jul 2010 - Hi Daniel, Great job you are doing appreciate your time and effort. As regards your request for feedback:
1. Site " conversation". Your suggestion Private or Public replies I agree with. There could be names or events that other viwers would recognise.
2. Photos. Good idea.
I leave for holiday tomorrow so composing this e-mail in a hurry will put some thought to suggestions when I return. Keep up the good work. Best regards,
John Evans - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

28 Jun 2010 - Hi Daniel, I am still very much enjoying this amazing site and I am sending you two photos from my past which I hope may be of interest to others.
In the "Fred's Angels" photo I am second from left and Fred was the owner of the cafe at that time. Unfortunately names of the other lads have been forgotten.
In the "Walthamstow Barbell Club" photo, the names I can remember are: Back Row - second from left is Derek Cooper and far right is John Hall, Middle Row - First left is me (Tony Lacey), third left is Steve Clayson, Bottom Row - Second left is Roy Duvall and fourth from left is Len Serle, who was the owner/trainer of the club. Hope your success continues to go from strength to strength. Best wishes,
Tony Lacey - [Private Reply] [Public Reply]

Fred's Angels Café - Walthamstow
Walthamstow - Fred's Angels Café
Walthamstow Barbell Club

28 Jun 2010 - Family History: I have just found your site - fantastic, I now live in New Zealand and have been trying to research my family. I lived at 66 Ramsay Rd from 1958 to 1964 & attended Cann Hall Road School I have just found out that my Great grandmother Louisa Pollock & family lived at 4 Florence Villas Ramsay Rd - 1891 Census. I am looking for any info on the Pollock Family and also any leads on Arthur Cecil Edwin Morphett who was my mothers father (she was born in 1913) he married Florence Blanche Pollock but she remarried in about 1920, I think that he died but have had no luck at all tracing him or details of their marriage. Regards,
Leonie Beattie - email

21 Jun 2010 - Family History: Hi Daniel, I have now found the Affidavit of my 4xGt Grandfather Christmas Fryer of Hempnall in Norfolk (25th December 1794) relating to Letters of Administration in respect of his wife Lucy Fryer Nee Scarnell who died in 1833. Her father (Father in law to Christmas Fryer) Lawson Scarnell Yeoman farmer of Hempnall my five times Gt Grandfather died in 1808 aged 41 and in his will stated that the farm was not to be sold until his wife Sarah Scarnell died. Then his four children would receive an equal share of £150 each! The estate was worth £600 11pence halfpenny! Sarah Scarnell died forty years later in 1848 and so Christmas Fryer had to apply to the court in 1859 so as to inherit his wife's share but in his deposition he swears her estate was worth no more than £100! Today that £600 would be about £25,000 but in those days bought a lot more with 240 pennies to the Pound and most people earning well under £1 a week more like £20 a year! I have also found the "Small Ads" from the local Norwich paper where Christmas Fryer offers to cart goods/people back to Hempanll from "The Lamb" Norwich every Saturday at 3pm. In addition to farming in Hempnall (For a long time on the Scarnell land) Christmas Fryer was also a beer retailer and may have attended Norwich for this and farm market purposes. Strange that all this ended up in 2, Jessie Cottages Low Hall Lane Walthamstow from 1907 to 1972! No sign of the money either! Regards,
Barrie Stevens - email

21 Jun 2010 - Family History: Hello Daniel, thank you for responding to my email and for the tip with regards to the Vestry House Museum. I have just sent them an email enquiry so hopefully they will be able to advise.
My Great Grandmother was Minnie Elsie Smith and she was born in Plaistow, West Ham in 1987, I know her mother died in 1989 and I beleive her father died not soon after. I'm having real trouble locating her after those dates- I can't find her on the 1911 census as all, and I beleive I found her on the 1901 Census, still in Plaistow adopted to a William and Ada Huton. Ada Huton shows up on the 1911 census as a widow working as a cook in pub. Kind Regards
Tamsin Busby - email

21 Jun 2010 - From Daniel: Following her previous email, Ali Froud has sent in the first lot of memories of John K Wisker. I've created a new entry in the Personal Stories section: here . Welcome John! And keep it up, Ali!

20 Jun 2010 - Family History: Hello, Just found your site and I have found it very interesting. I'm researching my great grandmother, who was orpaned around 1901. I beleive she grew up in Walthamstow Childrens Home, and I have found an old picture of a lady called Daisy Dickinson with 14 young girls outside a building. An inscription on the back states that this lady was my great grandmothers foster mother and this was taken outside Walthamstow Childrens Home. Are you able to let me know if such a home existed, or are you able to put this message on your site so that others can contact me? Thank You,
Tamsin Busby - email

From Daniel: I wonder if it would be the "Home for Orphan Children, Eastfield House" - you may find reference at Vestry House Museum (see our Web links).

19 Jun 2010 - General: Hello Daniel, Just recently noted the WM website. I now live on Mersea Island, just 65 miles from east London, but 650 miles in culture.
With the demise of Walthamstow Avenue (2000) FC, in 2006, I have now severed all my links with the area where I had my formative years. Although born in Thorpe Coombe in 1947(as were we all weren't we?), but I was brought up all round the South Coast due to the fact that my dad was a pro-footballer who played for Southend, Bournemouth, Brighton and Crystal Palace.
When he retired he bought a Grocery & Dairy business in Forest Road (Bennett's Dairy), so I came back to the town at the age of ten. I am a proud old Scruffy McGuffian. Played in a local R&B band the Eternal Fruit in the 1960's and also played football for Walthamstow Avenue's youth and reserve teams.
Worked for LB of Waltham Forest Sports Development Department then the local YMCA in Forest Road. For some odd reason I became Asst. Manager of Chingford Town in 1998 and started playing football again at the age of 50.
Left the town (Melford Road) in 1987 and moved to Mersea Island to manage a sports centre. Came back in 1992 to manage the YMCA sports centre (but continued to live on Mersea) but left to work on Mersea again in 2001. Re-formed Walthamstow Avenue FC in year 2000 (playing at Waltham Abbey), but the club became defunct again in 2006, when I decided I could not continue to fund the club anymore and could not find a sponsor. Now live with three dogs, two cats and a lady who is much too young for an old codger like me.
Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me from my school days and teenage years or whatever. Regards,
Ken Bennett - email

17 Jun 2010 - Family History: Re: Emma Sear I am pretty sure that I have solved the puzzle concerning the above. Would Jane Ross who made an enquiry concerning this please contact me at : bill.bayliss@ntlworld.com or provide a working email address so that I can contact her as the email address she has provided doesn't appear to be valid. Respects
Bill Byliss - email

16 Jun 2010 - Have just read info from John Denton. Remember me John? Lived around the corner in Mersey Road. Winns Avenue and William McGuffie for us 11plus failers !I finished up teaching fo 34 years.Now living in Cheltenham.Would be nice to hear from you
Keith Todd - email

16 Jun 2010 - Hi. I read with interest about Walthamstow. Many of the names mentioned are known to me. How can I find out more ?
Keith Todd - (Winns avenue school 1945.William McGuffie 1946 / 1950 - email

16 Jun 2010 - Hi. I recently started working as a home help for a wonderful elderly gentleman. When I finish the hoovering etc.. we sit and have a cuppa and he tells me all about his early life in Walthamstow. His stories are wonderful and his recall prodigous! He is 88 and not too well so I am unable to get him in front of a pc, but would love to join your site on his behalf in order to add his tales and also to be able to download, if at all possible, some pictures to show him. Hope you can help. The gentleman's surname is Wisker and I would love to find out if there is anyone connected to, or with a memory of, that family name who uses the site. Thanks
Ali Froud - email

16 Jun 2010 - Hi, I taught in Walthamstow for many years at Warwick Boys School - 1965 to '88.
Here are some of the many photographs I have from my time there and hope that they may be of use. If you'd like a CD of them please let me know.
Sincerely,
Lance Ford - HoD Art/Craft. - email

From Daniel: You may find Lance's pictures in the *NEW* page: "Warwick Boys School".

11 Jun 2010 - Hi, I want to thank you so much for sending me the news of Walthamstow. Last time you sent it I deleted it by mistake and was really upset
I was born at 8 St Andrews road, Walthamstow. We moved when my parents got a council house in Durban road. When I was about 4 my mum moved to 26 the Hale Highams Park; we lived there for years - I loved it - then the war came and I was evacuated. After the war things got back to normal and we had the Parties every year after, that was wonderful.
Before I was born my grandfather Henry Abrahams had a picture frame shop in Woodstreet, a little away from the station. I never saw him or nanna both had died before I was born - in fact I never saw any of my grandparents which made me very sad.
Any way many thanks again for sending me the The Walthamstow News. Regards,
Lil Keen nee Wilson email

10 Jun 2010 - Dear Mr Knowles, I have just come across your great site, and wish to contribute a photo from my football days at Warwick Boys School in 1956 which may be of interest to any lads from that particular time. I remember all their names so if anybody needs them I will be happy to supply them.
I also had the pleasure of being coached by your dad and Cyril Abley when I was lucky enough to be representing the Walthamstow Boys from 1955 - 1960. I was fortunate to go on to represent London Schools in 1960, and lucky enough tp pursue my dream of being a professional footballer at Crystal Palace, West Ham United and Portsmouth. Not bad for a lad from Walthamstow, and a lot of credit goes to your dad, and Cyril Abley for the encouragement and hard work in helping me become the player I was hoping to become on leaving school.
I have another photo,but unable to put my hands on it at present which has your dad in a photo with the Walthamstow Boys 1960. As soon as I find it I will send it to you.
I also noticed a life story written by John Newell on the Memories Site, and certainly remember John at Maynard Road Primary School, and I am sure he will remember some of the lads in the Warwick Boys photo.
Like everybody from the area I have nothing but happy memories growing up in Walthamstow E17! Thanking you for your attention, and keep up the good work on the site. Kind regards,
Alan Stephenson email

Warwick Boys 1956-57
The names of the lads:
L to R at back: Leslie Parsons, Donald Haley, Trevor Harvey, Victor Stoker, Stephen Horsey, David Hurst, David Forey
L to R front : Bernard Connelly, Michael Murrell, Alan Stephenson, John Clark, Terry Dix

10 Jun 2010 - Dear Daniel, Not sure if I should amend details BETWEEN THE QUOTES or not, so decided to type it as an UPDATED entry for FAMILY HISTORY section (& leave you to delete the original, if appropriate, or leave it as a detailed reminder?). Also, wondering if I could have BOTH replacement articles placed under the 'relevant letter ie: M' for MILLER/MULLER/SCOTT/STEWART, as well as under letter S' for the STEWART/MILLER/MULLER/SCOTT entry, too? (Might be useful to include the new heading as per [X], if possible, too, please?)
Goodness! It's become a bit of a tall order now, so do hope I haven't overdone it? Kindest regards, PS Florence-based sounds positively divine!!!
Pam Ray email

From Daniel: You may find Pam's updated article Here .

8 Jun 2010 - Dear Daniel and John, thank you for my first copy of the Newletter. I look forward to future news. The Post Card collection is a wonderful addition to the site.Regards,
Jeanette Colgan email

8 Jun 2010 - Hello Daniel and John, Congratulations on a fine website and on its popularity - you have obviously stirred lots of peoples' interest and memories.
I spent 17 happy years in Farnan Avenue before leaving my parents to work in Lancashire - I never returned to live in E17, but have visited since. I went to Chapel End schools and finished at Clark's College, Walthamstow. I had a paper round at Ernie Lowe's shop opposite the bus garage in Chingford Road - I was the mug who cycled around what seemed the whole of E17 delivering the bus drivers' and conductors' newspapers every morning.
Lloyd's Park was my second home. One day we stopped off at the off-licence to get some lemonade and I parked my cycle against the window. The next day, as I walked past the off-licence, I saw a cycle that looked remarkably like mine and realised I had left it there all night! What chances of that happening nowadays?! Thanks for your efforts.
Geoff Blackledge email

7 Jun 2010 - Marsh Street (Len's email) - As far as I can remember the Centre was in Marsh Street, hence the name. The street was demolished in late 70's and the new Sainsbury's complex and car park built on that site and the street was lost, hence it is no longer showing in the new A-Z. If someone has an old A-Z- pre 1980 then the street will probably show up in that. Hope this helps. Eb email

From Daniel: I've added a "Topography" heading in the Walthamstow History page.

7 Jun 2010 - Just a few comments. I like the new look, the postcards are great but where's the back button for navigation from one part to the other? Does one have to resort to Home everytime? Regards,
Genie (from 'chat lounge')

From Daniel: Dear Genie, the 'Postacard gallery' opens in a new browser page: when you want to return to the site, just close the window and you'll be back. Kindest regards.

6 Jun 2010 - Hi daniel i thought the photos were great they brought back many memories. I have a lot of memorbilia which my father collected over the years, one of these days i will email some things to you as you may like to add them to the site. my dad was born in 1914 and my Mum is still alive and was born in Walthamstow in 1918. I have tried to email before, but do not have outlook express and can't find out how to use it, perhaps you could help. Regards,
Dot Gregg (nee Atkins)

From Daniel: Dear Dot, I moved your message from the 'chat' area to here, so it doesn't get lost. I do not have your email address, therefore I cannot reply to you direct. If you copy daniel@walthamstowmemories.net in your email software, you should be able to reach me. Looking forward to hearing from you! Kindest regards.

6 Jun 2010 - Thanks Daniel. I am surprised no one has contacted you about THE BLUE DUKES. after all it was only 40 years ago - the days of HARD DAYS NITE, Poison Ivey ey ey ey ey ! .
Victor McCullough email

6 Jun 2010 - Hi Daniel, thank you so much for the lovely Newsletter and the wonderful photographs. I love looking at all these although not sure of some places. Brings back so many lovely memories. The photo of the The Bell - it still looks as I remember it from not all that many years ago.
I was there during the war and after and there has to be so many changes now. Left Walthamstow in 1963, to live in Hoddesdon, Herts, for 37 years. Moved from there in 2003 to where we live now in Lincolnshire. Never forget those lovely days in Walthamstow. Everyone had the same, there was no upmanship, we kids all played together in the street, no cars lol. Loved my school days at Winns Ave and then onto William Morris. Through Friends Reunited have picked up with several old friends from there, remarkable, when we met up a few years ago, everyone looked and sounded the same! Went for a walk round Walthamstow and Lloyds Park, enjoyed every moment.
Thanks again for renewing memories. Take care & Best wishes.
Norma email

6 Jun 2010 - Hello Daniel, Thanks for the newsletter and congratulations on such a great start to the year, 28,878 hits shows that people are interested in nostalgia and all things pertaining to Walthamstow both past and present. Please keep up the good work.
Personally I am only able to read English text, but I happen to know that you are able to speak several languages, so maybe if this was made known to the web site hitters there may be a few more people out there interested in communicating. I happen to know that the Lea Valley had many Italian workers in the area, both during and after the last war. Many stayed and became part of the community and I am sure there are many such people in the Walthamstow area.
Now a question has been raised regarding the Marsh Youth Centre that was very active in the 1950's. I have written recently about my own connections with the Marsh bicycle club.
But where did the name MARSH come from? Is there anyone who can through some light on this matter as I would be interested to know? My club did not have a head quarters as far as I know. There is no Marsh Street or road in Walthamstow. So let us have some answers please. Regards,
Len Hall, Australia email

5 Jun 2010 - Hi. Please spell Walthamstow correctly on the crest page! His is an enquiry NOT an inquiry! Did go to a good school you know! Regards
John Newell email

From Daniel: Thanks, John, for pointing out those two mis-spelt items - I've changed the top left banner and also amended 'Enquiry' on the COntact form.

4 Jun 2010 - Hi Daniel. Did you put me on the list, as I do not have a walthamstow news yet! We went up to Walthamstow recently & were able to find the death of my gt grandfather on the railway at Walthamstow. It was all recorded in the Leytonstone paper & was the first one we searched. Result and all due to very helpful staff at Vestry House. Regards,
Betty Armour email

From Daniel: Betty & all, I must apologise for being so late in the issue of our Newsletter: I promise I shall start working on it immediately!
As for your search, I'm so happy you did find the articles - Vestry House is really very helpful!

4 Jun 2010 - Hello Daniel, I am herewith attaching the little bit of memorabilia that I have been working on, as previously stated in a recent email to you. I have been awaiting some information from the United Kingdom which has caused me to make some slight amendments. Much to my chagrin as it seems that the old adage applies now and again i.e. 'the older I get, the better I was'.
Anyway if you wish you can add it to my list of memories on the Walthamstow Memories website. Regards,
Len Hall email

From Daniel: I really enjoyed reading the latest 'fragment' from Len! It's in 'Personal Stories' section Here

4 Jun 2010 - Hello Daniel, I have now found the not so long journey by which I came to be born in Thorpe Coombe maternity hospital, Walthamstow, on September 25th 1949. The following is the direct route missing out all the other children, step-children, stepmothers, cousins etc. Regards,
Barrie Stevens email

From Daniel: What a fascinating family path, Barrie! It's in 'Personal Stories' section Here

02 Jun 2010 - From Daniel: I just had a most pleasant chat with Len Hall, the first to try our new Live Chat! It actually works!! Thanks Len.
I shall try to implement a 'public' chat tomorrow, so that more than one user will be able to share the chat...

01 Jun 2010 - From Daniel: Announcing a new experiment at Walthamstow Memories: a Live Chat! Click on the button below...

28 May 2010 - Here are some more photos.the top one is my class and i am in the front row 3rd from the left.it was taken at st marys school near st marys church.?the net photo to the left is me dancing i am on the right the stage was in the street at parkstone road.the one below is on the stage again i am second from the right in the front row.
Maureen Sawkins email

26 May 2010 - Dear Daniel, please find enclosed some pictures of myself growing up in the 'stow. I will send some more as i get used to this computer. Regards,
Maureen Sawkins email

25 May 2010 - From Daniel: You may see all Maureen's pictures [Here]

25 May 2010 - Hi John, don't know if it's of any interest to your site, but my young school days in W'stow (William mc Guffie) were very happy days. I lived in Orford House, Orford Road. I was delivery boy for the off licence/grocers in Orford Rd. Bristowe ran the shop, Desboughs was the newsagent for many years, also Scott's the bakery was also in the road.
I recall many happy days playing in Loyds Park, even performing in school plays there, Hamlet, Toad of Toad Hall also a talent comp.
I also lived in the Working Mans Club along from the Bell Corner, and for a while also lived in the Club on the corner of Hoe Street & Tower Hamlets Rd.
I wonder if anyone can recall the boxing bout I 'put on' in the rear yard of Charlie Knights cafe', the 'fighters' being Ken Calin from Forest Rd. & Dave Foster from Ruby Rd. The event made the sports page of the Guardian! Regards,
Brian Williams email

24 May 2010 - Hello Daniel, Just to keep the ball rolling I have been at it again and I have attached a file that I have made up about my early years from about 1940 to 1960 where I lived in Walthamstow. Please have a look through it and feel free to do any censorship that you feel is required. Regards.
Len Hall email

24 May 2010 - From Daniel: Once more, thank you Len for this new fragment of your life in Walthamstow (read it here). I would also like - together with all our site's visitors - to wish you & Pat a HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY!

18 May 2010 - I have just read your very interesting story of the early years in Walthanstow and it has brought back loads of thoughts and feelings from those times I lived in Wellington Road. Family ran a shellfish stall outside of Burtons the tailors. Went to Mcguffie till 61 safaris to eagle pond and other parts of the forest, down to Highams park bomb sites and places only a young boys immagination could construct everything second hand, but all of it a new and wonderfull world. I am sure many of those who have followed us through life would have treasured as we did. I remember the concentrated orange from some where up the top of the high street and the cod liver oil grat stuff. Best regards
Vic email

15 May 2010 - Hi I would like to know how to join this site, my name was Karen Greenhorn and I lived in Priors croft Walthamstow and I am researching my family tree,I have read some of the entries and its very interesting would love to hear from you Karrie
Karen Jaki email

11 May 2010 - Hello! I have spent many an hour with my nose pressed against this window i.e. Frank Lipscombs bicycle shop in Markhouse Road, near Saint Saviours church. The photo which was taken in the 1980's was just sent to me by Tony Johnson, who used to live in the sweet shop under the for sale sign years ago.
Len Hall email

11 May 2010 - Hi Daniel, it's me again. Thank you for posting the pic of my husbands Class: he has had a few replies from old friends now! Now its my turn...my class photo from march 1952 in Thorpe Hall School.
I was Lynda Young then & I am in the 3rd row from the front far left: the angelic looking one (ha ha!) - other names I remember in the class are: Michael Attwell, Jane Harley, Howard Kenton. Jimmy Stubbs, Rosemary Lewis and Jill Wing...
Thank you again for a brilliant site.
Lynda Newton email

08 May 2010 - Hi Daniel and John, after a bit of an absence due to pressures of work and coping with a change in direction of my life, I have once more the time to discover and explore your excellent site. Thank you for the memories the site invokes and refreshes of my early life in wonderful Walthamstow. Best regards,
Bernard Green , Walpole Rd. 1947-1960 email

08 May 2010 - Can any one recall the buildings in Walthamstow High St. almost opposite the swimming pool near Hoe Street junction as they were in the late 1950's and early 1960's? The building I am interested in had the Conservative Party offices on one floor. Under them was, if I recall correctly, an insurance company's local office or maybe head office.. The ground floor I believe was a furniture shop or maybe the insurance offices were on the ground floor. A picture would be much appreciated! Regards,
Bernard Green , Walpole Rd. 1947-1960 email

07 May 2010 - Hello all of you Walthamstow residents both past and present. This is just a shot in the dark in the hope that there may be an historian out there who may help me with the following question: Around the years 1952 to 1963 I worked for a Walthamstow originated company known as E.N. Bray Ltd. Who had a factory at Whipps Cross originally. They later moved to Waltham Cross for a few years and then elsewhere.
My question is: who was Mr. E.N. Bray? I believe he was a brilliant inventor who designed and constructed electrical switches and motor starters in the first part of the century, both for marine applications and land based industry and I think he was deceased when I joined the firm.
If there are any living ancestors out there still I would like to know more about the mans history and origins. Of course I have already surfed the web on this subject with luck so far.
Len Hall email

04 May 2010 - Hi Guys, I often look up your web-page to see if there is any one I knew back when I lived in Walthamstow. So if any one knew me back when, I would be pleased to hear from you. The name is Les Drew, I lived in Markhose Rd., a few doors from Markhouse School, which I attended between 1950-54. So if any knew me, let's here from you. Regards.
Les Drew email

03 May 2010 - Ochiltree family: Hi, researching on Tom Ochiltree, who worked for several years at Manzies Pie Shop High Street around the 1950s in Walthamstow and his father John Ochiltree who worked as a market barrow boy in his youth and later married Lou Slatter, whose father had a Banana Stall at Walthamstow Market High Street. Can any one help with information in particular on John Ochiltree and his background parents etc around 1900 +.
Janice Ochiltree email

03 May 2010 - Hi Daniel, can you please add this photo to the gallery? My husband Reg is top left in the photo; its Christmas 1956 at Woodside School, Wood St., Walthamstow. At the moment Reg remembers the boy sitting below him (Stephen Read), other school mates: David Weston, Steven Pattmore, Peter Fuller, Geoffrey Smith, Lesley Smith, Carol Rodd, Pamela Stevenson and a boy who got sunstroke at the Isle of Wight camp and thought he was a teapot!!! Reg can't remember his name, but still laughs about it...
Lynda Newton email

Reg Newton at Woodside School - Walthamstow

27 Apr 2010 - Hi, When I was in the army (1954-1958) my good friend Johnny Newton lived in Waltamstow, I know his father worked as a butcher and I am sure it was Sainsbury's, anyway Johnny would be around 70-72 years young, I believe his family emigrated to Canada in the late 50's but returned to Walthamstow after a year, I would appreciate any information to help me search.
Jim Macfarlane, Canada email

11 Apr 2010 - Postbag Heather TOYE: I lived next door to a Martha Toye and an elderly gentleman whom we called Mr. Toye (either her father or brother) in Verualam Avenue, by St, Saviour's Church. from about 1938-1964.
Jean Brown (nee Truman) email

11 Apr 2010 - General: Does anyone remember a young boy's club held in the evenings at Markhouse Road School (I cannot remember the date but would have been in 1940's - 1950's) which was opened and supported by the late Frankie Vaughan? It was run by Jimmy Bright and Alf Truman. Many thanks,
Jean Brown (nee Truman) email

9 Apr 2010 - TOYE family: Hi, I was very interested to read the information on the Monday family (Jun 09). Unfortunately, I can't shed any light on the Mondays however Alfred Toye Snr, (licenced victualler in 1901 of the [now] Common Gate Hotel, 131 Markhouse Rd, Walthamstow) was my great, great grandfather & Alfred Toye Jnr, was my great grandfather. Alfred Jnr in his second marriage had two (more) children - Marjorie & George Charles Toye, (my grandfather). George was born in Walthamstow & flew at the wartime RAF aerodrome at Croydon airport. He died in London in 1996. Last year my father, Mike Toye visited the hotel and went to find the house on 245 Markhouse Road where Alfred Jnr was born - unfortunately this no longer exists. I have attached a link to a picture of the hotel. In a lot of the old certificates Toye is spelt Toye', confirming the family story of a French link. Link to Common Gate Hotel (Walthamstow)
Heather Toye, Aberdeen email

9 Apr 2010 - From Daniel: Our friend Barrie Stevens has sent in a few more pictures. See them here.

5 Apr 2010 : Hello Daniel, I am sitting here without the internet connected, due to an ISP fault and I have just sent the following message to my 'drafts' with the intention of sending it if I ever get connected again. However whilst sitting here in the doldrums I thought that I would write a bit more regarding my personal memories and thus use my spare time and maybe add a bit more to 'memories'. I just checked my earlier submission and there is an overlap but I am sending it anyway. It is entirely up to you whether you put it in your website or not. It may be too boring for some to read.
This is the message that I have just sent.

I hope you have all been wondering where is Len as there has been a total lack of communication for more than a week now. Well those of you that live in Perth are no doubt well aware that last week we experienced a terrible storm that caused a blackout in more than 150,000 homes. And there were floods and mud slides and all sorts of havoc in various places. Lucky for us we never experienced anything worse than a loss of power and in my case that upset my reticulation and the house security system and worst of all, the internet. I am writing this in the vain hope that when the technician arrives in two days time we can sort out my problem and then remove this email from 'drafts' and send it on to you all. The service from Bigpond is deplorable really as it will be well over a week since I had any connection with the outside world via the internet, but they say that is the earliest time they can get anyone here to look at the problem. I have double checked all the cables and I personally think the modem is stuffed and I hope that is all it is and it will be easy to fix. If it is a cable connection then maybe it will take longer to fix, we shall see on April the 1st which as we are all aware is 'all fools' day. So I shall now save this as a draft and send it in a couple of days.

Len Hall email

From Daniel: It's always a pleasure to read Len's reminiscences - his latest addition is here.
Daniel

3 Apr 2010 : Hi daniel, as all of your members I came across your site by accident. I am trying to find out information about my great grandparents who owned a butchers in Markhouse Road called Baxter and Smith Butchers. Their names were Kathleen and Albert,this would have been late 1800 early 1900 I do know my grandad worked there when he was 13 and that was in 1920 does anybody know anything about them please. Many Thanks
Sue Beattie email

26 Mar 2010 : My husbands father lived in Walthamstow his name was Reginald John Newton he remarried around the early 70s and had several more children. His parents were Frederick and Hannah (Slade) and they had a very large family in the West Ham area. I'm trying to research a tree for my husband, but cant seem to find anyone connected to the family. Would appreciate any help at all.
Lynda Newton email

26 Mar 2010 : The Riot Squad in particular Dell Roll were good friends, as was Dell's Father Reg. Bowie according to CD discograpthy was in the band, I saw them on a regular basis and can't recall Bowie although I saw him around in other guises, the Lower Third and The Buzz neither very good. Top band, nice blokes and would dearly like to track down Dell or Bob to say hello.
Stewart Smith email

24 Mar 2010 : Hello John & Daniel, I'm researching our family history in the area and found your fantastic site while searching the web. I'm trying to find out if anyone has any knowledge of the "old" Frederick Street WW1 Plaque which was moved to St James the Greater when the rebuilding took place in Frederick Street in the late '50's. What happened to the memorial when St James was demolished? If readers have any thoughts or info, I'd love to hear from you. Keep up the good work guys, Regards,
Nancy email

15 Mar 2010 : Hello John & Daniel, I grew up with the above Coat of Arms and I see it every time I open the website, but I would be very interested to know just what the various items actually mean. So maybe a Walthamstow historian could explain on the site so that others like me can be informed. Yours truly,
Len Hall email

11 Mar 2010 : Hi John, I've been updating my family tree over the past few months and have started to scan in some family photographs, a few of which are from the Walthamstow area.
Here are a few to start with… (see them Here )
Steve Goodall email

11-Mar-2010 - Families: Hi, my Great Grandparents George and Edith Mickleburgh ran a shop in Walthamstow some time between 1914 and 1935. Can anyone help me find out where it was? Thanks,
Chris email

From Daniel: Chris your email is incomplete: please contact me Here

02-Mar-2010 - Families: Good Morning, I am researching my ancestors, Frederick William Denny born 1860 in Shoreditch. He and his wife Mary Few lived in 1911 at Turner Rd Walthamstow. They had a large family. Fred was a French Polisher and he died 24 November 1911. He was still at the above address when he died. May I ask if a notice could be placed in your notice column. Thank you for such an interesting site. Yours faithfully,
Robyn Mason Sydney Australia email

02-Mar-2010 - Lost & Found: Message: Hi All, My name is Donna Mcintyre and I am trying to find Joe Randatzzo or Randazzo. His family owned a fish and chip shop in Walthamstow Market in the 70's. I think the address was 6 Golden Parade Wood Street. The fish and chip shop was very close to walthamstow central in the market. I am sure the family sold the fish and chip shop to a chinese family?? The family that owned this fish and chip shop are Italian from Sicily. Joe Randazzo was a very good friend of mine. On Sundays I went to a club in Shaftesbury Avenue and this is how I met Joe. I think the family moved to Chingford. If anyone can help me with this request I would be very grateful. Many thanks.
Donna email

26-Feb-2010 - Lost & Found: Message: Hi Daniel/John - Would appreciate any help you can give me in my quest to find an old school pal. Looking for Bob Rennie (Renney) bass guitarist. Bob played with local band Sam Apple Pie back in the late 60's and then with Brakes. I'm pretty sure he's still living locally (Waltham Forest) and possibly still playing with John (Josh) Brown (Drummer). He was last seen a few years back playing at a pub in Silvertown, unfortunately since demolished and there have been mentions of him playing at the Dukes Head or possibly The Plough in Wood Street. Bob was a class mate of mine at George Gascoigne (Queens Road, Walthamstow) back in the early 60's . We last met in 76 when we had a pint together at a pub in Stoke Newington. Can anyone help please?. Regards
Mac email

23-Feb-2010 - General: Hi John. Great site. I was born in Thorpe Coombe 1942, lived in Woodlands Road until 1961. Schools Wood Street, Joseph Barrett and Monoux. Went to the Air Cadets in Orford Road and worked Tv cabinet factory top of Wood St Vauxhall dealers opp. Hoe St station (mews off High St., carbon paper factory off High St.
Would love to hear from anyone who knew me.. Regards
John Evans email

22-Feb-2010 - George and Emily Smith: I am looking for information on the family of George and Emily Smith, who lived at Cambridge Road, Walthamstow, from around 1915 to 1940. They had several children and came originally from the East End. George worked as a french polisher. Regards
Paul Samuels email

17-Feb-2010 - From Laura with thanks: Dear John, thank you so much for the two photographs of your dad, which I shall treasure - did you receive the class photo from Coppermill Lane from me? I can name everyone in that class if you are interested for your website. Let me know.
I read your "Something of Myself" notes from the Walthamstow Memories website but it stopped suddenly at page 10 and so my husband and I are left in limbo!!!!! Can we have the next instalment please as it is not on the website.
I can fully comprehend how distressed you must have felt to learn that Dorothy Cornu had died and you could have contacted her after all. Well I feel very fortunate to have been able to contact you and have a photo of my favourite teacher. With grateful thanks
Laura Forrester email

From Daniel: Laura has sent in 'more memories', you can read them here

17-Feb-2010 - General: I look at your site regularly, having been born in Walthamstow as was my father. My parents met while working in Wood Street and I lived there until I was married.I have passed on details of the site to other people from Walthamstow. Keep up the good work!
Mary Hewitt email

15-Feb-2010 - Ancestry: Hello, I’m looking for some information about Walthamstow in 1900 ish.
I’m trying to research my husband’s family tree. His Grandfather was born in Walthamstow Forest in march 1907. I don’t really know how big Walthamstow was then. I’ve tried looking at the 1901 census. I know that in 1928, his Grandfather was living at 31 Beacontree Avenue. I don’t seem to be able to find this address in 1901 census. Is it possible that 31 Beacontree Avenue wasn’t built at this time? The biggest problem that I am having is that we know that his Grandfather was called Albert Walter Sanders and was Born on 11.03.1907 in Waltham forest. His father was called Henry Frederick Sanders. Only he has no birth entry anywhere! We know that he lived in the above street in 1928 when he was aged 21 as we have his marriage certificate but we have nothing else to go on apart from that. If there is any information that you could tell me about how large Walthamstow would have been around 1907 and even where the nearest birth, marriage and death records office for Walthamstow would be, that would be a great help. It’s so difficult without a birth certificate, so I’m researching any Sanders family living in Walthamstow in he early 1900’s. If there is anywhere that you could think of that may be useful I would really appreciate your help. Thank you & Regards
Louisa Hebditch email

08-Feb-2010 - Ancestry: I have a convict decendant who was transported to Australia on his shipping record it states he was native of Waltham could this be in this area or just a shortened name for Waltham forest he committed his crime at flying horse yard , Bishop gate and i understand this isnt all that far from waltham forest area..
His name was Thomas Rutter and sentenced on 11 september 1822, and had an occupation as shoemaker any help will be appreciated
Glenn Miller email

02-Feb-2010 - William Morris: Dear John, I hope you don't mind me writing to you, but came across your contact details when looking at the 'Walthamstow Memories' website. I too used to go to William Morris Technical School between 1956-1961 and found reading the 'Personal Stories' written by both yourself and John Newell brought the happy memories flooding back. I decided it would be nice to know who is still around after all this time and thought you and John might be able to help?
I used to hang around with Alan Rohrs, who has lived in Cornwall for probably 40 years now, John Richardson, John Pearson, Paul Woodley and Paul White in the lowly 'S' stream. I still keep in contact with Alan and was a neighbour of his in Cornwall for 10 years or more. Alan keeps in contact with John Richardson who recently had a heart attack. The rest of the gang I have heard nothing of. I went to Jennifer Phelp's 40th birthday party and she is featured in the 5T 'girls' photograph. I would particularly like to contact her as she was my girlfriend at the time!
I used to live near the Crooked Billet circa 1950-1972, then moved to Tiptree in Essex. I then had an apartment at Walton-on-Naze whilst Works Manager at a catheter manufacturing site in Clacton, moving to Holland for a three year stint in 1986. As European Divisional QA Manager my job took me all over the globe, so living in Holland made no sense. That's when I purchased a cottage next door to Alan in Cornwall and commuted from there. After living out of a suitcase for 9 years I was offered the job of Operations Director in Thailand, looking after the condom manufacturing facility for SSL (previously London Rubber along the North Circular Road) and have lived here since 1994. I am retired now but have a consultancy role with a rival condom manufacturer not far from where I live in Banglamung, just outside Pattaya.
It would be nice to hear from you with a brief update on your own circumstances, together with any contact details, when you might have the time. Thanking you in anticipation and best regards.
Martin Burchell email

27-Jan-2010 - High Street Memories: Greetings from Queensland, Daniel. I haven't written for some time but have corresponded with Len Hall in Perth, Aus., who urged me to send you some more of my memoirs. You may have had many stories about the High Street, but I'm sending you this one anyway. Enjoy your website very much and can be contacted at this email address if anyone recognises us. Many thanks again,
Valerie and Terry Brown, Bundaberg Qld. Australia. email

Thanks Val! "High Street memories" can be read Here

10-Jan-2010: Jessie Cottages Hello Daniel,I was just looking at the recent photos added to your site by Barry Stevens and on the one shown last it has the following heading: My Great Uncle Harry (George Harry Southgate) He was brother to my Maternal Grandmother Alice Rose Fryer Nee Southgate and lived at 1, Jessie Cottages Low Hall Lane from the early twentieth century until his death in the early 1960s. In this picture with his wife Lily, taken I suppose in the 1940s-50s. (In the garden of 1 Jessie Cottages Low Hall Lane, hard to say...) Their son was drafted into the RAF in the early 1940s and became Air Vice Marshall Harry Southgate CB and I think is still alive. He went to St Saviour's School Markhouse Road, Walthamstow as did my mother. Uncle Harry was a bookies' runner.
Now recently I have been doing a bit of research into my ancestors and I have obtained a copy of my father's birth certificate. Now I have scanned it and I do hope it is legible and it states that my father was born in 1909 at number 1 Jessie Cottages and I would be obliged if you would forward this email to Barry in the vain hope that he can throw some light on it. My quest so far stops at my paternal grandfather.
Len Hall email

Note from Daniel: below a picture of 1 Jessie Cottages (the house with an arched gate), in Low Hall Ln