your comments
Julie Hinson from Weymouth
My grandmother, Edith Salisbury Bagshaw, had ties to the Halkyn area. Her mother, Sarah Bagshaw (later Thomson) was born in the area in 1868, as were her grandparents Robert and Hannah Bagshaw and great grandparents James and Sarah Bagshaw. 19th century census returns mention birth places/residences for them which include "Strue House" in Halkin (1891), Pen Yr Hwlfa/Penehulfe, Holywell and Halkyn. Several of the male Bagshaws worked as lead miners. Towards the end of the century, Sarah (mother of Edith) and some of her brothers, moved to Manchester to work and/or live.
Fri Jun 12 12:19:01 2009
Steve Marquis, Halkyn
The son of the founder of Flintshire firm Jones Balers is organising a summer reunion for former employees.Noel Jones says it promises to be a great chance to reminisce and discover more about this well-known company and the workers who established Jones Balers into a world-class business more than 50 years ago.If you'd like to meet some old friends or are related to members of the Jones Balers workforce or customers of Jones Balers join them on Tuesday, June 9 at 7.30pm at the Blue Bell Inn, Halkyn.
Fri Jun 5 07:43:36 2009
Margaret Jones, Rhyl
I was interested to read Elspeth Walker's comments regarding her birth at Rhosesmor Vicarage. My mother, Nurse Jones was the local District Nurse/ Midwife and would have attended the birth. I have an old photograph of her christening which my mother attended. She was the local District Nurse from 1935- 1968 and during that time delivered hundreds of babies, as home deleveries were the norm. in those days
Mon May 11 13:24:02 2009
Dave Stone from Liverpool
Barkers from Halkin (Halkyn). I am a descendant of Thomas Barker b. 1796, a tailor in Halkyn. I think that I may be related to Carolyn of Lancashire who posted on 17.7.2008. Sydna Elizabeth Barker was my grandmother. If she would like to get in touch I will supply her with info and photos. I'm told by my cousin who is also researching her side of the family that some of the Barkers did live at Cop-Y-Fran which she tells me was at some later stage renamed to Sunnyside. If Paul from New Brighton and Robin from Halkyn would like to get in touch I will try and supply them with some information.
Tue May 5 09:21:37 2009
Alwyn Davies, Brynford
Jane Hughes is asking about Cornelius Jones. He was an ancestor of mine. She can contact me via the webteam for more information.
Tue Apr 14 13:50:12 2009
Charles Hogg
John Denman b 1857 Tan Y Foel Rhesycae: I was in the burial ground attached to Rhes Y Cae Chapel and noticed a stone to the above and his wife who died within a few months of one another in Liverpool 1886. The memorial stone was provided by friends in Liverpool. I am curious to know more about cause of death and really why the Denman family did not provide the stone in view of the fact that there were so many brothers still alive and in fairly good positions for that time.
Mon Apr 6 10:43:23 2009
Ian Wright
FAO Roger Clarke, Hi Roger, please get in touch. Issac was my GGGFather. Need to double check the amount of G's. Born Halkyn, moved Family to Minera to work in the Lead Mines. Have quite a bit of info.
Mon Apr 6 10:11:46 2009
Sian Howe from Mid Glamorgan, S Wales
Paul from New Brighton - My Nain was also called Elizabeth Williams from Halkyn. Maria Thomas was also a member of my mums family. My mum is called Phyllis and is in her '70s. If your mother is called Celia, we may possibly be cousins.
Fri Apr 3 08:41:17 2009
Roger Clarke, Caergeiliog, Anglesey.
My wife is a Bateman and at present trying to trace the history of her family in the Halkyn area. Her GG Grandfather was Isaac Bateman (lead Miner) born in 1825 and the 1841 census shows him living at 66 Catch, Halkyn. Does anyone have any information, drawings, pictures, photos etc of this I assume area?
Wed Apr 1 08:51:28 2009
Scott Staley (Stealey) from Phoenix
In reference to Barbara Stealey's comments about the Stealey's. Edmund Stealey is also my grandfather. I was named for him (middle name) and I have seen the gravestones from one generation to another where the name change took place. I am living in Germany and planning a trip to Holywell/Flint. Do you have any idea where they lived? I would love to see their house. I have heard that someone in the family found it but they have now passed on. Any information you could give me would be much appreciated.
Fri Mar 6 08:19:42 2009
Gwyndaf Williams, Colwyn Bay
In researching my family tree, I have been provided with a letter likely to date back to the latter half of the 1800s. The letter makes mention of (I believe) my G.G.G.G.G. grandfather Edward Theodore Martin. His son (G.G.G.G. grandfather) was Henry Martin who had a brother named Timothy, in the letter there is reference to him residing at Fulbrook, Halkyn. Henry's Daughter (G.G.G. grandmother)was named Rachel Martin (married name unknown). Rachel's daughter (G.G. grandmother) was named Laura (married name Jones) who married an Edward Jones and they resided in Greenfield, Holywell (Laura is buried in New Brighton cemetery). Their one and only child, Maria Louisa Jones married my G. grandfather and spent the rest of her/their life in Caernarfonshire & Anglesey. The letter is intruiging because it refers to wills, probate and an 'estate' and property in Monmouthshire that may have belonged to Edward Theodore Martin and left to his sons Henry & Timothy. Anyone with information about the Martin's please please get in touch.
Mon Mar 2 10:26:11 2009
Anne Kelly (Bateman) Scotland
Kevin Bateman, I think that James Bateman was born in 1772 in Halkyn and was married to Catherine Lloyd or Melbourne. Is this the same family as you?
Tue Feb 24 08:37:28 2009
Joseph Williams, Helena, Montana, USA
G. grandfather, William Williams (1805-1890) transported to VDL in 1833. Leading up to arrest was an affray that occurred about 1am January 30, 1833 on the Estate of Lord Dinorben at Lleweney in the Big Wood near Lleweney Hall. Thomas Jones, Dinorben's head keeper found evidence of poaching. Jones displayed the evidence to Elizabeth Williams after searching the William Williams' home. At the time of the incident William Williams, the younger and head poacher was living in Denbigh with his wife, Alice Parry and children. Thus I presume that William & Elizabeth Williams may have been parents of "Bill the Bad" as he became known. Consequently "Bill the Bad" was sentenced to 14 years & transported to VDL. He spent the next 47 years in AU, found another wife and reared a passel of red headed kids. On his return to Denbigh he bragged about his AU family. His Denbighshire relatives did not take kindly to the fact and "Bill the Bad" was castigated by family members. He died 11 May 1890 at the home of his dau. Hannah, wife of Joseph Roberts of Penercue Bach, Llanrhaiadr and was buried in the church yard at Pentre Saron. Were William & Elizabeth Williams his parents? If you are a relative stop by and say hello to "Bill the Bad".
Mon Feb 9 09:50:28 2009
Deborah Elliott from Buckinghamshire
Carolyn Barker and I share some relatives as I have just started researching Bellis from the area. I am descended from Joseph Bellis, Ann's younger brother. He was a blacksmith in the area, and his father Benjamin a lead miner from Bryn y Mawr, but I don't know if this place still exists.
Wed Jan 28 08:48:00 2009
Kevin Bateman, Hawarden
To Anne Kelly. Can you get in touch with me about George Bateman. I may have some info for you.
Thu Jan 15 10:02:43 2009
Nanette Davies (Mold)
My husband's uncle, John Edward Edwards, was killed as a result of an explosion in Halkyn Lead mines in 1936. I don't seem to be able to find any information about it. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Nercwys, on a Sunday.
Thu Jan 8 10:25:35 2009
Jane Hughes, Babell
Does anybody know of a captain Cornelius Jones from Halkyn? He was a captain of a mine, died 1859. His son, Richard, married a Mary Nuttal whose ancestors were from Derbyshire. I know his family history but nothing of what mine he was captain of etc.
Mon Jan 5 09:39:02 2009
Anne Kelly (nee Bateman), Scotland
My ggg-grandfather George Bateman was born in Halkyn around 1813. he was the son of James Bateman and Catherine Melbourne? George lived in Stirlingshire and Lanarkshire, Scotland where he worked as a miner. He was married to Lucinda Woods and his known children included Marion, Elizabeth, John, Catherine, Lucinda, Thomas, Edward and Isaac (my gg-grandfather).
Fri Jan 2 09:53:11 2009
Bill Redfern from Wirral
I found some old docs belonging to my late mother Kathleen Redfern. One was a letter dated 1964, explaining a Joyce Hughes of Dolphin cottages was very ill and that she (my mum) was named as nearest relative. She later died in a home. I know my dad's mum's name was Dora Elizabeth Hughes, who married William Redfern. It would please me to find any more info if poss.
Wed Nov 19 08:39:25 2008
Clair Jones
We are trying to trace some history of my great grandparents' cottage in Pentre Halkyn called Hawen cottage, one of the rooms also became a shop. I would be grateful for any information. Also, looking for information about my nana's brother and sister. My nana was Dilys Maynard nee Williams. We know about her brothers Eddie and Albert Williams but we believe she had a sister Margaret and a brother Arthur. We think these died as children, possibly babies. My nana's mum once lived in Hawen cottage, Elizabeth Williams.
Mon Nov 17 08:07:40 2008
Kate Tucker, Somerset
My ggg grandfather, John Bateman b1804, came from the Halkyn area. I can trace his family back to James Bateman and Sarah Hooson C1730's. He then went on to work in the lead mines on the Isle of Man.
Mon Nov 10 08:36:14 2008
Bryan
I am researching my wife's family history,her grandmother's maiden name was Dora Jones, Dora's parents Robert and Anne Jones. I have them on the 1901 census living at Bryn Alun Rhydymwyn, Robert's occupation is listed as a Lead Miner.Family story is that they then had a public house in Halkyn, which was very near and just bellow the Blue Bell Pub. I believe this would have been the Royal Oak (now a house called the Old Royal Oak). The story is that Robert died before Dora's wedding in about 1921, Anne then re married to an Edwards but he didn't want to keep the pub. I believe the pub closed in 1938 but I don't know if Anne was there until then.
Wed Oct 8 13:27:09 2008
GWYN JONES, Brynford
Rosemary Hunter from Flint re Lodge. Could be one of two places, top lodge or bottom lodge. Bottom lodge was accessed off the old A55 and stood a few hundred yards from where the Little Chef now stands. Top lodge is situated by Halkyn church on the left immediately after you turn up for the village of Halkyn. The lodges belonged to the Halkyn Castle estate residence of the late Colonel Beavan.
Mon Sep 22 08:49:36 2008
Diana Edwards Roy
I just found out that my 4th great grand parents lived at Halkyn Mtn., Flintshire, North Wales. I did a search of Halkyn Mtn., Flintshire, North Wales and came to this site. I was hoping someone else may had heard of them. John and Elizabeth Edwards. Their son was Robert Edwards born abt. 1793. From family papers Robert was born at Groesffordd, Ysceifiog Parrish, Flinshire, North Wales. Thanks in advance for your help.
Thu Sep 11 09:22:37 2008
Hazel Kerr nee Baeten known as Beaton, Scotland
Hello Paul, my gran married a Robert Oldfield from Connahs Quay. They were wed in Chester in 1903 because that's where my gran came from. They had a daughter, Alice, and a son, Robert. Sadly Robert, her husband, died young. I know his father was a captain of a boat at the quay dock. My gran remarried in 1914 but I am still in touch with my cousins that still reside in the quay. They are aunty Alice's family. My uncle Bob went to live in Flint on his marriage. Sadly he has passed away as has aunty Alice. I know the Oldfields were quite prominent people in Connahs Quay. It is nice to see the family name on the web site. Good luck in your quest.
Wed Sep 10 08:37:38 2008
Gaynor Wilkinson nee Frimston, Pantasaph
To Chris Stewart. My gt grandmother was a Redfern. I have many Redferns on my tree but no Ellen. If you would like to see my tree, you can contact me through ancestry.co.uk.
Mon Sep 8 13:40:20 2008
Norma Williams, Liverpool.
I always thought my grt grandfather was head gamekeeper on the Budicom Estate, but recently found out it was the Ffoulkes family he worked for at Eriviat Hall, Ysciefiog. The years would have been about 1875 or earlier. Would anyone have any information about the "Hall" or the Foulkes family please?
Mon Sep 8 08:43:35 2008
Sandra Jones, Buckley
Buddicum. In response to the query about the Buddicum family. My grandfather, David Jones, worked for the Buddicum family in Nannerch in the early 20th Century - 1915-1920 approximately. He worked as a steam traction engine driver, and was known as Dai Jones Tractions. He would travel from farm to farm during harvest and threshing times, so possibly would have been well known by local farmers. He lived at Ty Onnen (Ash Cottage) on Moel y Crio and was married to Jane Ellen Lewis (father Richard Robert Lewis, mother Louisa Pritchard). David Jones's family lived in Llandyrnog and worked for the family at Glyn Arthur. His brothers were John, Thomas (a steam roller driver) and he had a sister, Jane.
Fri Aug 22 14:33:30 2008
Mike Gibson
I am trying to contact two girls that we used to 'follow around Mold' during our dinner hour. My mate Aled and I used to go to Daniel Owen but the girls were from Ysgol Maes Garmon. Their names were Glynis and Grace if my memory serves me right and they lived in Halkyn or thereabouts in the mid 1960s. Anyone remember them?
Mon Aug 11 14:24:50 2008
Glyn Williams, Terrigal, N S W
Hello Elain, sorry to hear that your dad passed away, hope mum is keeping well, we never got to thank her for putting us up on the spur of the moment, we lost touch after that. We went off to NZ and then back to Sydney. Regards to you all from Glyn & Sophia (email address suplied).
Tue Jul 29 12:08:14 2008
Elaine Moore (Adelaide SA.)
Re: Glyn Williams Sydney. I can remember someone visiting from Sydney when I was little. My dad passed away 10 years ago after being ill with cardiomyopathy for 13 years.
Mon Jul 28 10:39:46 2008
Elaine Moore (Adelaide SA.)
Re: Ron Rush. Yes I know you and Sheila also Paul. We went to their wedding and also visited them when we were in Wales 9 years ago.
Mon Jul 28 10:39:16 2008
Carolyn Barker from Lancashire
BARKERS GODDARDS BELLIS
My husband's family came from Halkyn before moving to Oldham. The Barkers tended to be tailors. The family tree goes back to Samuel c1767 and down through Thomas 1796 married Elizabeth Roberts to Edward 1819 who married Margaret Jones from Holywell to Edward 1855 who married Sarah Goddard 1857 to Benjamin 1898. Sarah Goddard came from a family with a history of working in the lead mines. Sarah's father was James Goddard c1827, son of Joseph and Mary nee Williams. James married Ann Bellis in 1855. She was the daughter of Benjamin also a lead miner. So you can see we have many of the names in our tree mentioned in your comments. Are there any BARKERS, GODDARDS or BELLIS left in the area that maybe connected?
Thu Jul 17 15:32:04 2008
Ron Rush from Halkyn
Re. Elain Moore. South Ausralia
I have known your mother and dad many years and grandad and grandmother. I also know you in-laws Glyn and Dorthy, also Keith and Steve. Our son Paul was a mate of Keith's. My friend Jeff Robinson and I play doms with Glyn and John Nuttall at the Brittaia and my friend and I beat Glyn and John every Friday night!
Fri Jun 13 08:33:41 2008
Glyn Williams Sydney Australia
Elaine Moore nee George Sophia and I lived next door to your parents in Carmel and we also visited your family when they lived in Whyalla S.A. We think it was in early 1966. Would love to know how they are.
Thu Jun 5 11:58:45 2008
Carmen Lloyd, Tarro Australia
Dear Sandra, I have a vague connection to Matthew Nuttall, his brother John Henry married Elizabeth Lloyd, sister of my line.
Mon Jun 2 10:06:30 2008
Stuart Bellis from Harrogate
To Anne Bellis in Western Australia. Hello - I believe we are indeed related! Robert Bellis was the youngest son of Edward Samuel Bellis. Edward's younger bother, Frank Percy, was my great grandad. I would indeed like to contact you. Please contact the BBC website team to provide your contact details. I believe Edward Bellis was baptised in Halkyn 21 Sep 1783. Edward was born to Edward Bellis (from Northop) and Mary (maiden name) Oldfield from Halkyn.
Wed May 28 08:32:51 2008
Anne Bellis from Western Australia
To Stuart Bellis of Harrogate, Edward Bellis born 1786 is my great great great grandfather. My dad Geoffrey Michael Bellis was born to Robert and Elsie Bellis who lived in Leeds. I would love to know how you are connected and the story of the Bellis family from Wales. It is indeed fascinating stuff and I love the little discoveries along the way!
Thu May 22 14:26:03 2008
Amanda Bellis (Durham)
I have been told in the past that the name "Bellis" originated from the fact that the family probably made bellows for coal fires? I have also seen research that says that the name originated in North Wales from Ab Elys ("son of Elys") and also that the family had originally been French Huguenots and left as they were persecuted along with many others for their religious beliefs. No idea if any of that is true!
Message to Wendy Witten - as you can see I am a Bellis from the NE - all my male descendants traced so far were coal miners in the NE - however my Great Grandfather moved us here from Flintshire (somewhere near Mold). I don't yet have a Benjamin in my tree but would be interested in sharing any research.
Thu May 1 13:40:25 2008
Julia Weigh
I live in Halkyn in a farm that was occupied by the Bellis family for generations. When renovating we found an old photo with a Middlesen Regiment cap badge attached. The lady in the photo was around the First World War era.
Wed Apr 30 13:42:15 2008
John Garry Roberts
My family are from the Halkyn area. My grandad and grandmother lived there all their lives. I'm trying to trace anybody who might have known them. Their names are Roberts. My father, John Roberts, played for Halkyn United in the 1970s.
Thu Apr 24 08:48:27 2008
Rosemary Hunter from Flint
Can anybody tell me where "Halkin Lodge" is? It appears on my GGG grandmother's marriage certificate in 1852 as her residence. Her name was Elizabeth Price.
Fri Apr 18 07:41:50 2008
Julie Roughton Dorchester
My grandmother Edith was the youngest daughter of the Vickers family who lived in the Britannia Inn, Halkyn. She was born in 1910 and her father Alfred was the publican. Does anyone please have any information about The Britannia, particularly around the turn of the century?
Mon Apr 14 08:42:33 2008
Mark Corbett
I am replng to Hendy nee Denman from the Wirral. My mother is Iona Denman from Rhes-y-Cae. My grandfather was Gwylym Denman who had many brothers and sisters, Nestya, Cillia, Emryed - these are a few of the names if this helps. Quite a few Denmans are buried in Rhes-y-Cae chapel.
Tue Apr 8 08:26:55 2008
Keith Parry Burlington, Ont Canada
I would like to trace my roots from N Wales. I was born May 18th 1954 in Mancot. Son of Harold and Irene (Key) Parry. My grandparents were George and Harriet (Jones) Parry of Flint. I would very much like to hear from anyone with information.
Wed Apr 2 10:02:55 2008
Patricia M. Pickens from Llangollen
My name is Patricia M. Foulkes (maiden name). I am tracing my family tree and have discovered my great grandfather, William Foulkes, born in Manchester in 1843 had roots in Wales. Can anyone of the surname Foulkes please contact me, if they had a branch of their family who moved into England in the late 1700s or early 1800s? I am a university graduate and would dearly love to write a series of fictional books about life in Wales during this historical period. Basing my work on factual evidence, or possible family history.
Fri Mar 28 12:54:00 2008
Cris Ebbs from Llanarmon-yn-Ial
The club to which I belong have been exploring Halkyn Mines for a number of years after being granted the relative permissions. A few months ago, an area of mine workings to the north of Rhosesmor was re-entered for the first time since mining days. Here miners had left old drills, a glass bottle, clay pipe, and other equipment at an area where they found an inscription on the wall: "B. Hough 24th August 1898". Does anyone know of B. Hough or a Hough family member that might be related? I am also carrying out research on mining at Halkyn and would be very grateful if anyone had any old photos relating to mining to look at?
Mon Mar 10 09:27:33 2008
Elspeth Walker, Cricklade, Wilts
I was born at Rhosesmor Vicarage - the first child to be born there - in 1948. My father was the vicar The Reverend David Saunders Davies. My handprints are outside the kitchen window in the concrete! We left in 1955. Memories for me are of the Bellises, Evans and Masseys as well as Jones of Jones Balers fame. A wonderful childhood.
Tue Feb 26 16:46:32 2008
Stuart Bellis from Harrogate
Message for Robin Jones, Toronto. Fascinating stuff.I have traced my family name back to Edward Bellis. I believe he was born in 1786 - and in Halkin, Flintshire. He married an Elizabeth from Cheshire (born 1791). They moved to live in Chester where they had three children. They eventually moved to Manchester. Do you know anymore info about where they lived in Halkin, names of Mother or Father?Did they originate in Halkin? Was Edward a miner too? When he moved to Chester he was a painter. Any info will be a lead - Edward is as far back as I can trace. Best regards, Stuart Bellis.
Fri Feb 22 10:35:13 2008
Robin Jones from Toronto
I know that my great aunt married William Bellis and three brothers moved to Phoenix, British Columbia to mine copper and then on to Butte, Montana. There were four Bellis brothers (Edward, William, Ezra and John). William married my great grandfather's sister. John Bellis married my great grandfather's niece, Harriett. Harriett and John went back to Rhydau Duon Farm in Brynrefail, near Caernarfon. They are buried in the church in Penisarwaen. I came to Canada in 1970.
Tue Feb 19 09:57:05 2008
Paul, New Brighton
Robin, Halkyn: My Nain was Elizabeth Williams, Maria Thomas was her sister, they also had two brothers. Copa'r Fran was built around the 1820s by their ancestors, when originally built it was two cottages.
Mon Feb 18 10:15:33 2008
Maureen Beardsley, Plymouth, Devon
I have traced my ancesters back to my gr/gr/grandparents William and Harriet Jones, both born about 1830 in Whitford and Cilcain. They had a Market Garden business in the Greenfield area of Holywell in the late 1880s. Their grandson, Christmas Jones, ended up with a shop in Flint, which my father can remember visiting in the late 1930s. I would love to find more about them.
Mon Feb 11 09:51:10 2008
Elaine Moore (nee George), South Australia
My husband's family comes from Pentre Halkyn, and my in-laws still live in Pentre Halkyn. They owned Glyn Moore and sons for many years. My husband and I moved to Australia with our two children, Kerry and Gareth, in 1991 with some to and froing from 1988 when we first came to SA. I am the daughter of Bill and Doreen George (nee Davidson). My mum lived in the Wern/Rhes-y-cae when her family moved over from Liverpool in 1948. My dad came from Mold. Would love to hear from anyone who knows these families.
Mon Jan 21 08:59:43 2008
Phyllis Bayley - Lancashire
My Bellis ancestors came from Halkyn but from about 1815 onwards lived in Chester and were printers. Edward Bellis was born in Halkyn in 1796. Does anyone know of any Halkyn Bellises who could be ancestors or relatives? This name predominates in this local area of North Wales, does anyone know its origins? Many thanks.
Fri Jan 11 10:07:35 2008
Chris Stewart
I am trying to trace my family tree. Ellen Redfern born around 1836 in Halkyn, daughter of James Redfern and Elizabeth Harrison?
Wed Dec 19 09:17:08 2007
Dave Foster, Llandrynog
Hi, I wonder if anyone has any old photos or stories regarding the Rectory at Llandrynog which dates back to 1600s and which you could share with me?
Wed Dec 19 09:10:18 2007
Tommy Williams from Liverpool
I am trying to trace my family history and would be grateful to anybody who could give me any information on my great grandfather. He was David Williams a farmer from Llanefydd, Denbighshire, born app. 1835. He moved to Liverpool app. 1866-69 with his wife Elizabeth, son John, daughter Ellen and possibly Mary. Hope someone can help.
Wed Nov 21 09:26:51 2007
Barbara Staley (Stealey) Brown from New Mexico, U.
My great-grandfather was Patrick Edmund Stealey, a miner from Flintshire, Wales. He married Sarah Anna Roberts, and with her, had five children born in Holywell. Edmund immigrated to the U.S. about 1867 and found work mining. Anna and their children followed in 1869. Some of their children changed the spelling to Staley to avoid constantly correcting Americans who mispronounced Stealey.
Fri Nov 9 08:45:33 2007
Sean Porter, Padstow, Cornwall
Believe my grt grandfather came from Flint Mountain, Thomas Porter 1881. Are there any Porters still there, or descendants who might be able to confirm this? Cheers, Sean.
Mon Oct 29 16:50:10 2007
Claire Backhouse - Nuneaton, Warks
I am researching my family tree and my ancestor Thomas Harrison who married Susannah ? was born around 1841 in Flint / Halkyn. I am hoping there are still some Harrisons living in Flint that could help fit more of the jigsaw together, by 1901 he was living in Rhyl.
Fri Oct 26 08:50:37 2007
Thelma Birrell - Maroochydore, Australia.
Just came to your page while seeking Bostock ancestors. Jonathan Bostock was an ironmonger Hawarden pre-1600. Links to Thomas and Edward Bostock c1604 Farndon, border of Cheshire. Jonathan Bostock was ironmonger, Bridge St, Chester c1699. I have a great deal of family history after 20 years resaarch.
Mon Oct 22 08:53:37 2007
Alison - Pentre Halkyn
I have recently moved into Fir Cottage which is situated on Buxton Lane, it was built in 1828 and was orginally a miner's cottage. I would be grateful if anyone could give me any history on this property.
Wed Oct 10 16:57:05 2007
Carol Hughes (nee Armitage), Leeds
My great grandparents lived in Halkyn Windmill. He was called Thomas Roberts and his wife was Maria Davies before they married. He was a lead miner, she sadly died at age 47 and he came down to Flint to work as a gardener at Cornist Hall. My mother still lives in the cottage that he lived in from 1891.
Tue Sep 11 08:41:08 2007
Patricia, Llanrwst
Ian, I remember Mr James Goddard (who was an amateur ventriloquist) living in a village near Llanrwst until he died, possibly late '60s early '70s. Three of his daughters still live in and around Llanrwst and I think a son is in Cerrig y Drudion or that area. The early Goddards were lead miners and lived in Llanrhychwyn (above Llanrwst) near my gt grandparents, the men in my family being lead miners also.
Mon Sep 3 09:57:04 2007
Ian Bostock, Bury, Lancs
Looking for local descendants of the Goddards who moved to Halkyn in early 19th century to work in the lead mines. Have three generations right up until the very early 20th century in the area and down to Llanwrst. Can anyone shed any light on the Goddards?
Tue Aug 21 12:20:28 2007
Hayley (Wirral)
My great great grandfather David Hayes born c1837 was a lead miner in Halkyn and lived in a cottage in The Catch, near to the mine. Apparently, this cottage still stands and has the name Maesteg but I can't seem to find it. Does anyone have any ideas where this might be?Thanks, Hayley
Wed Aug 15 16:51:17 2007
Mark Hughes from the Wirral
Great grand father and two generations before all wheelwrights in Halkyn - Robert, William and his father William. Some connections with Hoosons through marriage. Can anyone help with more facts?
Tue Aug 7 10:16:23 2007
Rhona Lawson, Tofield
My Dad (Dave)and his brother (Clive) grew up next door to Dee house in Halkyn 2 or 3 doors east of the church in the picture at the top of this page. My grandpa, Leon Lawson, lived there until 1985(6). He was married to Florence Roberts. I'd like to know more about her family.
Tue Aug 7 10:05:18 2007
mrs kennion
Edwin/Edward Jones, soldier all of his life. Bought a cottage in Halkyn Mountains, lived out his life there and died. His father was David Jones Stonemason. Anyone have any links to this family?
Tue Jul 10 10:45:52 2007
Keith R
Hi, I am related to the Carringtons of Halkin. My great grandmother was a Sarah Ann Carrington born 1864, Pentre, Halkin; father's name Francis Carrington, born 1827, Halkin; wife Catherine Roberts. His father's name was Thomas Carrington birth unknown, wife Dorothy Jones. Any help or information would be truly appreciated.
Mon Jul 9 08:42:48 2007
Steve Howarth from Ashton, Cheshire
We lived at 25 Nelson Street from 1960 until early 1980s. My mum, Edna Howarth, sadly passed away in 2003 having spent the last 15 years of her life living at Dodds Court off Shotton Lane. Amazing times, amazing memories. Where are you Pete Treadwell, Carol Hughes, Kim Roberts, Tina Wooley, Lyn Berkley and Cerys Jones( from Ash Grove)? I was amused to see the message "KC to SH" on the facing wall of "The Ranch" at the bottom of Nelson Street in (obviously resilient) yellow gloss paint dating from 1961! The KC is Kim Cussons who lived opposite. So many good memories. We had a gang based in "the Backs" aka the railway embankment, (HQ being beneath the old Signal Box). I remember injuring my leg badly falling from a tree at the back of Mike Scarfo's house and needing 40+ stitches. I also remember Mona Jeff's shop at the foot of the pedestrian railway bridges in Jubilee Street, and "The Jokey" on the main road at the top of Nelson Street where you could buy cheap cattys that would just about get you through Saturday before the elastics went. Does anyone remember, or have info on "The Burning Hills" which were a relic of the coal mining activity in the area. They were one field removed from Killins Lane, just off the public footpath. They have long since been flattened, but in the 60s and earlier, they used to smoke after a heavy rainfall, a similar phenomenon was to be seen off the top level railway line just before the Dee bridge above "Thousand Bushes" where we used to play on the old rolling stock. I assume it was down to the ignited coal still smouldering underground, and ventilated through fissures in the earth. We were always warned off going there in case the ground gave way and we fell into the fires below. Mount Vesuvius in Higher Shotton, who would have thought? How lucky we were to have Wepre Woods close by and Ewloe Castle, where we used to climb the walls at major risk to life and limb. I vividly remember a guy scrabbling to the top of the shattered circular keep in a pair of winklepickers. The opening of the Baths in Connahs Quay was a landmark event. Remember the top board in the 11 foot six deep end? I learned to Scuba Dive there with the Flints Sub-Aqua Club, who used to meet at the Institute in Queensferry. Would be great to hear from anyone who shared these times and memories.
Wed Jul 4 15:37:36 2007
Halkin Madeleine Belgium
My family Halkin came in Belgium in the 17th century in the region of Liege. Do you know if the family name Halkin was from your area?
Mon Jul 2 08:32:35 2007
Hendy nee Denman from Wirral
Denman family: I am tracing my family tree and have discovered that my ancestor Joseph Denman a MINE ADVENTURER came from Winster, nr Bakewell, Derbyshire, and settled at Minera about 1700 he married a Hughes of Gwern Gasey near Minera. They had 9 children and their children, grandchildren, great gandchildren, etc lived around Ysceifiog and Rhes-y-cae. I believe my great grandfather John Denman was killed in a lead mining accident. Are there any records of lead mining accidents in Flintshire?
Thu Jun 21 08:28:55 2007
Vince Roberts, (Originally of Fullbrook House, Hal
To Sandra Evans from Denbigh: 'The Vicarage' is now a dwelling but used to be part of a school (across the road from Halkyn Church) where I believe the headmaster lived. My father attended this school as a child during the 2nd world war.
Tue Jun 19 08:17:01 2007
Vince Roberts, Connah's Quay (Originaly of Fullbro
To Gordon Cavanaugh, Victoria BC: I have extensive details of the Lloyd Williams furniture Company including the new trading details/address. Please email me for further information.
Tue Jun 19 08:16:23 2007
Sandra Evans from Denbigh
My 4th great grandfather was from Halkyn. He was called Downing. I'm not sure if this was a Derbyshire name. They lived at Vickerage and I'm unsure if this was an area or if it is the vicarage. Can anyone help?
Tue Jun 12 08:25:41 2007
Gordon Cavanaugh, Victoria BC
I am trying to find out information about a furniture company from the early 19th century known as Lloyd Williams. The firm may still exist. Would someone please send me their email or mailing address?
Tue May 8 10:19:55 2007
P Wright
Stories of the Halkyn and Milwr tunnels, and of the 'bottomless lake' under Rhosesmore, have fascinated me since I first heard of the industry. I would like to see BBC Wales make a documentary about these subterranean workings. There is a good deal on the internet about the caverns and mines (search for 'subterranean Britain') and Flintshire libraries have a copy of Chris Ebbs' excellebt short book on the history of the industry, which I highly recommend to anyone interested.
Fri May 4 15:45:02 2007
Harrison Bateman
Searching Batemans...James Bateman 1712-?? Married Sarah Hooson. That is the start of my info on Batemans. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Wed May 2 08:04:02 2007
Ryan Thomas
To my previous infomation request, I now know that Gwilym Evans married Stella Evans and were sold Tan-y-Foel cottage by Gwilym's mother Sarah Evans. Does anyone have any information on the whereabouts of Sarah Evans or Gwilym Evans previously of Tany-Y-Foel Cottage, Shones Lane, Berthddu?
Mon Apr 23 09:39:41 2007
Tim Biddle
My wife's maternal family name is Salisbury. They were miners and appear in the census entries of the last century in Halkyn. I would like to discover any earlier references and possible connection to Derbyshire. Can anyone help?
Mon Apr 16 10:15:41 2007
Phil from Liverpool (originally)
I read with interest the few lines dated June 2 2005 from Kate Gordon (nee Rowlett). If she is still reading this column could she please contact me. It seems to me we may have common ancestry. Best Regards, Phil Robertson, Western Australia.
Tue Apr 10 09:45:27 2007
ELIZABETH JONES NEE BUNEGAR
Can any one help with the name of Bunegar, gggGrandfather was Welsh and the story goes that his name was Bunn and it was Bunn y caer he came to Worcestershire and married in 1816 the name became Bunegar.Any help gratefully received.
Tue Apr 10 08:35:28 2007
Charles Perry Kass, Chicago, IL. USA
Responding to Alison from Buckley, my great-great grandfather, Edward Parry was born in Flintshire, and I believe he built mines in the area. The name was changed to "Perry" when my great-grandfather emigrated to the USA in the late 1800s.
Thu Apr 5 08:35:34 2007
Bob Williams from Weymouth
I was interested to see the name Stealey among the names from Derbyshire in Halkyn in the 1881 census of Holywell. My Nain has an aunt Jane whose married name is Stealeyformerly Huxley.
Fri Mar 30 07:58:29 2007
Jill Jennings, Yorkshire
My Great-grandfather, Charles Thomas Mitchell, was a colliery owner and lived at Bryn Edwin Hall, Flint. He came from the Birmingham area and settled in Wales. At least two of his children were born in Wales. One in Flint, the other in Pwllheli (my grandfather, William). I am keen to find out about him and his family. What sort of colliery would he have owned around Flint? Will there be a record somewhere? Can anyone be of help?
Mon Mar 19 09:00:48 2007
Sandra B from Buckley
Re. the Buddicum family of Pen Bedw. My grandfather, David Jones, worked for the family as a traction engine driver in the 1920s or 1930s. He was known as Dai Jones Tractions and was well known in the area as he and the traction engine was hired out to local farmers at harvest time. He was married to Jane Ellen (nee Lewis) who attended Rhes y Cae school from 1895-1908. Her father was Richard Robert Lewis and her mother was Louisa Alice (nee Pritchard). Her father was John Pritchard who was the clerk at Hendre Mine at the end of the 19th Century. Has anyone come across any of them?
Mon Mar 19 08:55:29 2007
Josie Walpole
Does anyone know Miss Katie Jones (I don't know her marrried name) who lived in number 6 Dolphin Cottages, Milwr Road, Holywell? Her great niece Josie Walpole would to contact her relatives.
Mon Mar 12 07:59:07 2007
Alison from Buckley
I have recently purchased Parry's Mine which is situated at the top of pentre halkyn mountain. It was built 1828 by Mr Parry, who I think owned some of the mines in the area and was known as the managers cottage.
Over the years the cottage has been used as a wages office, shop and public house.
If anyone has any information on this property it would be gratefully received.
Wed Feb 21 13:30:50 2007
Carol Cross Berthengam
Re Silver Rake Brynford - I'm the granddaughter of Annie Silver Rake and have traced the family and local area if Geoff Hart would like to contact me.
Tue Feb 13 09:25:06 2007
Buddicom
Interested in William Buddicom who owned Penbedw in Nannnerch Flintshire. Any names who worked for William Buddicom would be welcome, plus anything else interesting.
Tue Feb 13 09:07:18 2007
Neil Evans Telford Shropshire
My Mother by birth was a Nuttall. Luckily, I have researched (to an extent) the Nuttall family. They moved to Llandrynog around 1895 and later to Bodelwyddan, where 3 siblings are buried at the'Marble Church', one of which died in 1916 due to the great war and the remaing two around 1950. However, the remaining sibling moved to Market Drayton, thus this line of Nuttalls died in Bodelwyddan.
Mon Feb 5 08:51:08 2007
Wendy Witten, Skipton
Bellis family line: My family can be traced back to the Bellis family who were lead miners in Halkyn in the 19thC. Son Benjamin then moved to Boldon Colliery (1901 census) in NE England and the family became coal miners. I'd be interested for more information. Bellis family of Halkyn if anyone can supply this please. I find the link between lead mining and coal mining interesting. It contiued through to the line of my brother who worked for the NCB until the 1970s.
Thu Jan 25 08:48:40 2007
Ryan Thomas
Does anyone have any information on the old Tan y Foel cottages in Berth Ddu village at the bottom of Shones Lane near the old shop that Nesta Salisbury owned. We know the Blythen sisters lived in one cottage and Mrs Lapthorne? in another but there were two semi-detached and one detached cottage. Can anyone shed any light on who lived in the other cottage in round about 1965 - 1975.
Mon Jan 8 15:32:54 2007
Sandra Hughes (nee Nuttall) from Rhuddlan
My grandfather Matthew Nuttall (sometimes known as Nil) was from Halkyn. He married and had two children and settled in Flint in Castle Street. My dad was Sam or Sonny and his sister Dorothy (Dolly Jones), both now dead. Can anyone tell me more about my family history? Would also like to know the history of Bryn Edwin Hall in Flint Mountain as my mum now resides there in the residential home.
Mon Jan 8 10:25:37 2007
Robin, Halkyn
We live in a cottage on the top of Halkyn mountain known as Sunnyside, years ago it was called Copra Fran it was a little miners' cottage lived in by a Maria Thomas, Elizabeth Williams. Can anyone give me any information if any member of either of these families are still around.
Thu Jan 4 10:06:22 2007
Geoff Hart from Brynford
I live in an old property associated with mining of lead and silver known as Silver Rake. I am researching the history of the house and its inhabitants. Any information, particularly on the Davies family that lived here, gratefully received.
Tue Jan 2 10:36:35 2007
Thomas Wellman Campbell
Our Wellman name is said to be Welsh. Once I saw the Welsh spelling of the name but since cannot find it. My family migrated to and from York, England, to Kansas in the later 1800s, and settled north of Wichita before going on to the Black Hills of South Dakota before the turn of the century. My great-grandfather was William G. Wellman, one of his brothers was Haskill.
Fri Dec 15 08:57:25 2006
John Collingwood Ormskirk Lancashire
Grandfather born in or lived in Buckley in 1880's his father was from Bedwellty Monmouthshire is in the 1803 census returns but what of brothers and sisters? Grandfather married Alice Price from I think Llansaintfraid agin other relatives lived Oswestry.
Tue Nov 14 08:35:00 2006
Oldfield -Flint
My Oldfield family lived in Llanfynydd, not sure how near this is to Halkyn mountain. Most were identified as farmers but then later also miners. Don't know which mine they may have worked at, does anyone have any suggestions.
The earliest relative I have is Edward Oldfield c1815 married to Hannah ?. They had children Elizabeth, John, Sarah, Rob and Hannah.
Anyone recognise these names??
Mon Nov 13 08:59:51 2006
Meghan Emery from Arizona, United States
I'm all the way out in the United States, but I have to trace my family history back to a specific culture for a class. I have traced it back to wales, but now I'm getting curious. Once I reach wales the last name changes from Emery to Emrys and it gets confusing and hard because I'm a long way away. Can anyone help?
Wed Oct 18 08:01:24 2006
Harrison Bateman from Oregon USA
double sworded Bateman..Mother's maiden name was also Bateman...on Mother's side can go back to 1712..Father's side have struck out...Father's males side as follows...start with me going backwards
Harrison Collins Bateman (me)..married Betty Schultz Harrison born 1934 Butte Montana, USA
Harrison Edwin Bateman..married Lucy Bateman..
Harrison born 1902 Corning,Kansas, USA
Frank Edwin Bateman married Mabel Coston
Frank born 1876 Illinois, USA
Edwin Sawyer Bateman married Sahra Livina ?
Edwin born about 1842 New York, USA
Stephen Bateman married Lydia ?
Stephen born 1802! ????
Wed Oct 18 07:44:47 2006
kevin bateman from hawarden
could john jones bateman get in touch. i am researching the bateman's.
Tue Oct 17 08:09:44 2006
Anne Wagstaffe from Derbyshire
Having seen a reference to a Wagstaff mine or vein in the Halkyn area, I wonder if some Derbyshire Wagstaff/e lead miners ended up in Flintshire. Josiah Wagstaff left Derbyshire for Middleton in Teesdale, probably in 1758 working for the (Quaker) London Lead Company, who also mined in Flintshire, so some family members may have made the move to Wales.
Mon Oct 16 16:51:16 2006
Ron Edwards (Brisbane)
My Great Great Great Grandfather was born in Rhosymedre in 1799, his name was Bartholemew but for some reason was baptised Barthelona, his son John worked as a carpenter in Bersham, probably at the Iron Works owned by John Wilkinson. My Great Grandfather was Isaac Edwards, he lived and worked in Brymbo until moving to the North East of England circa 1880.
Mon Oct 16 11:04:52 2006
Jackie Williams from London
Very interesting article, thank you. I'm researching my husband's family tree (he is from Flint) and have recently come across a great great grandmother Susannah Harrison in Moel y crio born c 1812. She married Joseph Morris. I will enjoy passing on this info to him as I also have Derbyshire connections.
Fri Oct 13 08:14:46 2006
John Jones-Bateman, Cincinnati, OH. USA
My heritage is English and Welsh. My g.g. grandfather was John Jones who married a woman named Marianne (MaryAnn?)Bateman in the mid 1800s. The surname then became Jones-Bateman. We have roots in Abergele and Pentre Mawr, but I wanted more information if anyone has it. Any reply would be much appreciated!
Mon Oct 9 09:26:59 2006
Lou from Berth Ddu
I am renovating an old miner's cottage in Berth Ddu near Halkyn. Previous owners were Willam Williams of Ysceifiog to Thomas Harrison in 1864 he died in an accident at Pant y Go lead mine in 1877. Passed to son John Harrison then to second wife Elizabeth who retained till around 1947. In the 50s there was Daniel Blackwell retired policeman to William Wwen, then in the 60s an Evelyn Salmon to a Dorothy Knowles and then the Moore Jones sisters who were last to live here from 1964 till late 90s. It would be interesting if anyone has pics of these people, the miners or Berth Ddu, in particular Hawthorne cottage that used to be thatched and believed to have been built along with similar cottages close by around late 1700s/early 1800s. Any info welcome.
Mon Oct 2 10:46:49 2006
Eileen Madders of Bryn y Baal
I moved to this area 4 years ago and recently made the Halkyn/Derbyshire connection. My paternal grandmother's family were Spencers and lead miners from the Middleton area of Derbyshire. They were a big (extended) family so there could be distant relations living still in the area.
Wed Sep 20 15:55:55 2006
Norma Williams Liverpool
My great grandfather, Robert Loyd, was Game Keeper and he also had a farm called Tyn y Celyn in Ysceifiog. Can anyone tell me more? He was there in 1881 and still there in 1886 with his family. He was born in Nantglyn in 1836. His four children went to school in Ysceifiog. Was he Game Keeper for Mr Buddicom at Penbedw and Plas Nantglyn?
Mon Sep 18 09:50:27 2006
lou..flintshire
for phil..fullbrook is a small village on outskirts of halkyn and halkyn hall.a few stone cottages and a pub..old stone and lead mining area..probably called fullbrook as when it rains the road floods easily as on big hill..
Thu Sep 7 08:45:37 2006
Rosemarie EVANS from Birmingham
My late father's birth certificate shows he was born in Hawarden, and I know the family lived in a place called The Pandy. His brothers and father were miners, but my Dad became a butcher at a local smallholding owned by someone called Badrock. He never spoke much of his childhood, and I only have contact with one elderly aunt, but I would love to know if there is anyone in the area who knew him or his family. His name was Eric Leonard TYLER, born in 1920.
Tue Sep 5 12:56:55 2006
Gwen Holland
Kevin BATEMAN from Hawarden, if you would like to contact me I would be happy to hear from you
Fri Aug 25 09:44:55 2006
Maisie Margetts of Newark, Notts.
A.P. Walker - re airmen from Scampton,
could you give more details of the year the airmen were involved with Scampton and any further information? I am trying to help.
Fri Aug 18 10:52:09 2006
Sandra Strefford from Flint
My G. Grandfather John Lloyd born 1853 originated from Halkyn, his father was William Lloyd born 1828 from the Catch. John Lloyd had eleven children all born in Flint and between 1875 and 1897. They were William John, Edward (my grandfather), Margaret, Elizabeth Anne, Frances, Harriet, John Albert, Harold, Ernest Walker and twins Caroline and Llewelyn who both died in infancy. Can anyone identify with these names?
Fri Aug 11 15:43:08 2006
Rowan Williams from Pershore
Have many early ancestral links with Halkyn ... my earliest known male - line ancestor was a certain David Goch who was born around 1500 in Halkyn, then in about 1650 a marriage with Mary Pennant connects us with Hendrevigillt. Does anyone know what happened to the Jones family of Halkyn Hall after they sold up in 1704?
Mon Aug 7 08:02:53 2006
julie from pentre halkyn
does anybody have any history or stories about bryn awel (public house many yrs ago) facing pentre farm in pentre halkyn. last known to live there were the chinoll family roughly 25/26yrs ago. the house is now up for sale and we would just like to find out a little history
Fri Jun 16 07:46:42 2006
Ian Wright now from Abergele
My Great Grandmother was a Bateman, Her father was from Halkyn who came over to Minera near Wrexham, with his family to work in the Lead Mines. Any one else who is researching the Bateman clan, please get in touch.
Tue May 30 08:14:11 2006
Diane Beachill (nee Hooson) Barnsley
My great grandfather Thomas Hooson came from Flint Mountain, Flint. He married Sarah Owens and they moved to Barnsley with their children about 1901. Also Thomas' two brothers, Robert and Joseph Hooson and their wives and children moved to Barnsley. They came here to work in the coal mines.
Tue Mar 21 10:58:17 2006
Ron from Cumberland
My wife's family names include Belliss, we have made a lot of research in the area, but we are having difficulty getting furthr back than the mid 1800's. Does anyone know the origin of the name. The last connection we have is with Pont Blyddn.
Thu Feb 2 20:21:41 2006
Allyson Evans, Prestatyn
My grandmothers family were Marrows, Gx3 grandfather was originally from Scotland. He married an Elizabeth Garratt from Hawarden and settled in Connahs Quay, where the family remained until this generation. Her fathers' family were Foulkes also from Connahs Quay.
Thu Feb 2 12:40:33 2006
Jacob L. Bateman III, Bateman from Halkyn, Flintsh
I am Jacob L. Bateman III d.b. 28 Oct. 1952 Montgomery, Alabama the grandson of Jacob L. Bateman Sr. d.b. 31 Jan 1894, Osceola MIlls, Pennsylvania. His father was John Samuel Bateman who may have come from Halkyn, Flintshire Wales. He was born in Wales I think our U. S. Census says England. He died in 1922 at the age of 65 in Pittsburgh PA. Is there anyone doing reseach on this family.
Sat Jan 21 03:40:12 2006
Josie Oldfield from Flintshire
can anyone tell me more about the history of the oldfields in my area, my grandfather irfon howel oldfield lived at freisland farm nercwys all his life if that helps?
Wed Jan 4 21:33:14 2006
Holly Richardson
My father was Garnet Eric Bignell born about 1913/1914. My husband's grandfather was Walter Linder Brewer. We are trying to find out more info on either as both are from Wrexham and were originally Jones. I know Jones is a common last name. It would be great to find out more.
Tue Dec 6 07:13:27 2005
Keith Redfern Humphreys
Reference my previous sumission - I now live in the Llandudno area.
Sat Oct 8 11:35:31 2005
Keith Redfern Humphreys
My ggg grandfather, John Redfern, was born in Halkyn 1806 and his daughter Sarah married John Thomas. They had 4 children Elizabeth, George, John and Richard. As a family tradition the sons were baptised with Redfern as their middle name. The tradition carries on and my son is Alexander Redfern Humphreys.
Sat Oct 8 11:32:45 2005
Paul Thompson from Sydney, Australia
My mother was an Oldfield and her father, David was born in Park Lodge, Halkyn Hall (1908). When my mother's father was very young, his mother (Catherine Oldfield - Yorkshire Engineering family) died. The Derbyshire Oldfields came to the Lodge at Halkyn to take the children (Kitty, Maudie, David, Robert) back to Derbyshire but my great grandfather (Samuel) wouldn't let them go. The Oldfields in Flint, Connah's Quay and Shotton are descendants from my great grandfather Samuel. My great aunt Maudie remembered the Derbyshire Oldfields as "tall men, with bushy red sideburns"! Samuel was also a big red haired fellow - he didn't speak any English. It's very interesting that Jeans father lived at Halkyn Hall. NOTE TO PAUL: Further comments failed to appear from here. Web Team.
Sun Sep 18 10:52:37 2005
Dorothy Phillips from Lancaster
My grandfather, Albert Lloyd Pickering, was born in Pentre, Mold, in 1862, the son of a tollgate keeper, John Pickering. John's father, Charles Pickering was a lead miner, who married in St Mary's, Cilcain, Flintshire in 1822. I have not as yet identified Charles' father, but I am sure he is descended from a family of Pickerings who came from Derbyshire to Flintshire in the late 17th/early 18th century. By 1841 Charles and his family had moved to Pant y Myn, near Gwernaffield, and as he is still listed as a lead miner I think he was working in one of the mines on Halkyn Mountain. If anyone knows anything about the Pickering family, and perhaps even knows which part of Derbyshire they may have come from I would be very pleased if they could tell me what they know.
Thu Aug 25 23:40:48 2005
Deb Walker from Mirfield West Yorkshire
My husband's great great great grandfather was called Richard Harrison born in Halkyn in about 1833. When I started looking into his family history I was surprised to see so many entries in the Parish Registers for the surname FOULK(e) which is one of my own ancestral lines in Derbyshire. I didn't realise why this was until I read your article. I wonder if I will find that somewhere back in the mists of time some of my Derbyshire Foulks were married to his Halkyn Harrisons!
Fri Jul 1 19:37:11 2005
Kate Gordon nee Rowlett, Kensworth, Beds
My grandmother was Jane Harrison born April 14, 1857 in Halkyn. Mother Jane Oldfield. Father Richard Harrison, stone mason master. She married John Rowlett in Liverpool on April 14, 1879 and died in Kettering, Northants on October 27, 1900. I guess John Rowlett must have travelled to Halkyn in search of work. Kettering is near Corby a mining area. Jane had two children, Florence born in 1880 and Walter Leslie (my father) born in 1899. My father was very proud of his Welsh connection although he was brought up by an aunt in Oxfordshire. My son works for what was British Steel and lives in South Wales.
Thu Jun 2 08:16:58 2005
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Halkyn Mountain is an area of upland forming the backbone of the old Flintshire. It has extensive areas of open common land, which have been exploited for their rich veins of lead ore since Roman times. 
