Hanmer

Last updated: 10 June 2009

Local historian Derrick Pratt offers this insight into the history of Hanmer.

your comments

Nicky, Penley
I have just been looking at the back log of comments and couldn't help notice comments from Colleen Cookson and Sharon. My nan also lived in Stanwardine in The Fields and was a Kyrkham, she had family links to the Hanmers. Small world!
Wed Jun 10 07:44:06 2009

Margaret Roberts (nee Jones)
For Michael Desmond Bulter, Northampton. I went to school with a daughter of Lloyd Bulter in the 1960-70s. We are still in touch with each other. Perhaps I can help?
Thu Apr 2 08:26:54 2009

Roger Bray from London
It's great to see a really lively and active village discussion forum. I am trying to trace members of the Ritching or Kitching family who appear in Hanmer in the 1881, 1891 and 1901 censuses at least. Thomas was aub-postmaster, grocer and baker; his wife was Eliza, they both came from Yorkshire (Bradford and Holmfirth respectively), and they had three children, Mary Vaux Kitching (b. 1882), Hubert Vaux Kitching (b. 1891) and Ellen Vaux Kitching (who sadly was born and died in 1885). Hubert (who also appears as Herbert) served in the South Lancs Regiment in World War I. If anyone has any knowledge of them or their descendants I'd be delighted to hear.
Mon Mar 30 08:48:19 2009

Norma Molloy nee Hanmer
Born and raised in Cape Town (South Africa) now living in Sydney (Australia). Father is Norman Hanmer (1929-) born in Johannesburg, raised in Worcester. Grandfather Frederick Hanmer. Fascinating to find out about the name Hanmer. Now on list of places to visit: Hanmer in the UK and Hanmer Springs in New Zealand.
Thu Mar 5 07:51:38 2009

Thomas and Jane Marsh
Hi, my was Margaret Marsh, daughter of Thomas and Jane Marsh, and she was born in 1807, married in 1826 to George Penny. I would be pleased to hear from other members of the Marsh family. Flo Brookes.
Mon Feb 9 09:57:43 2009

June Phillips, Ponciau
Hello Pat. I was looking on this site when I was surprised to see a comment you made on Hanmer. I never got the chance to thank you for all the help you give me and my family when we needed it, best wishes to you and your family, will call to see you when we are down your way.
Tue Feb 3 09:41:31 2009

Pat Burns (Village Bobby retired)
I was sad to learn of the sudden death of Sir John Hanmer, Bart, shortly after Christmas (2008). He will be sadly missed by the community and will be remembered for all his hard work with the school, church and the village in general. My condolences go to Lady Hanmer and the Hanmer family.
Mon Jan 26 08:42:23 2009

Matthew Frame from North Carolina
Anyone know who the wife of Humphrey Hanmer was? Apparently he was the original Hanmer immigrant in the early 1600s. I think he was the son of Sir William Hanmer but would appreciate verification if anyone knows.
Tue Jan 6 08:15:56 2009

Graham Taylor, North London
For Peter Mitchel, Barry Wood, Tracy King & Linda Millward. I am Peter Mitchell's nephew (my mother was Peter's sister, Enid) I too have only just started looking into our family tree but I have managed to pull a lot of information together, although I haven't yet confirmed it all! There does seem to be a lot of discrepancy between birth dates shown in different records. I understand that some census records rounded ages up to the nearest 5 years which makes tracing people interesting, anyway if any of you are interested my family tree is published at the following address. myheritage.com/site-49406511/graham-taylor-web-site
Mon Jan 5 09:53:17 2009

Julia Cecil (Hanmer), Suffolk UK (ex Zimbabwe)
Hi all Hanmers, just heard that Sir John has died. I'm related to William (Bill) Hanmer who went to Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. I am now living in the UK. We have a wonderful history that is well documented. Cheers to all, Julia.
Fri Jan 2 10:52:20 2009

Matthew Hanmer - Vancouver, Canada
To Kathryn Jean Hanmer of Ontario, Canada. My father's name is William (Bill) Hanmer and my grandparents' names were Julian and Emma too. My side of the family comes from the Toronto area. Does yours as well? If so, we may be of relation.
Mon Nov 17 08:20:37 2008

Andrea, Leeds
I would like the person who wrote "Richard Hanmer from Yorkshire" to contact me as the mining Hanmer family from Durham were related to my mining Hanmer family from Wakefield. Would love to exchange info.
Mon Nov 17 08:13:26 2008

Barbara Anderson (nee Hanmer) Victoria, Australia
To Phillip Hamner of Amarillo - it's interesting you mention the German connection to Hanmer/Hamner. Some 40 years ago, my brother met a German who had been in the Luftwaffe at work. This man kept himself to himself with all the other staff, except for my brother. We thought that our surname was the reason, but the surname really comes from the place-name Hagenamere! Any German connection is purely co-incidental.
Fri Oct 17 08:54:22 2008

Gary Hanmer from Blackpool UK
Hello Hanmers, I didn't realise there were so many of us.
Mon Oct 6 13:45:27 2008

Ruth Beaton, Ellesmere, Shropshire
Skitts from Hanmer. Helen from Chester wants me to ask webteam for her e. mail address so I can contact her.
Tue Sep 9 10:53:41 2008

Kathryn Jean Hanmer, Ontario, Canada
Hello all you Hanmers. I am the daughter of William and Barbara (Parkinson) and the granddaughter of Julian and Emma Hanmer. Both born in Canada but I can't get any further than that as they are both deceased. Does this info mean anything to anyone?
Thu Sep 4 08:46:02 2008

Judy from Louisiana
My maiden name was Hamner and I have been using a book "Hamner Heritage" by Geneal Hamner Black & Mary Clark Ryan. This book starts with Nicholas Hamner born 1630 in Wales. Nicholas & his brother came to Virginia. I tracked my family down from Nicholas and have now received info. It should have been from Humphrey Hamner. Humphry was living in VA in 1640 and this is when the name was changed to Hamner. I don't know if all my work has been in vain and I have the wrong brother. Anyone else working down from either of these?
Tue Sep 2 09:03:30 2008

Helen, Chester
Ruth Beaton nee Skitt. Hello Ruth, I am currently researching the Skitt family Hamner for a friend. If you would like to email me off list I'd love to see if we are following the same line. (The webteam has my address.)
Thu Aug 28 17:03:45 2008

Richard Hanmer from Yorkshire
Just found this site after my father, David Hanmer, decided to search our family history. My grandfather, Edwin Hanmer(one of ten children), moved to Yorshire from Durham, shortly after his father died in a mining accident. His name was Richard Edward Hanmer and he was born in 1873 and died on 20th August 1915. His wife was called Harriet E. Hanmer and I know the names of the remaining children. Any further information would be much appreciated.
Thu Aug 28 15:13:23 2008

Kate Whincup (Hanmer)
Hello please could I adjust my previous message. I forgot to mention James Hanmer's father was George Edward Hanmer who was born in Kinnerley then moved to Liverpool. George's parents were called Edward Hanmer and Mary Sargant. Thank you.
Thu Aug 7 17:12:20 2008

Ruth Beaton nee Skitt
Just found your site. My gg grandfather John Skitt born in Whitchurch 1814 married Mary Allerton at St Chad's Church Hanmer in 1836, Mary came from Penley, they had a son James 1842 my g grandfather who had a son John 1865 both baptised at St Chad's Hanmer. Any interest or information please email via this site.
Thu Aug 7 16:49:46 2008

Kate Whincup, Sheffield (Hanmer)
Hello I am tracing the Hanmer name as my grandmother was Elizabeth Mary Ann Hanmer whose father was James Hanmer whose family came from Kinnerley, Knockin, and Great Ness and goes way back. If anyone has information please I would be grateful if anyone one with information could get in touch. Thank you very much.
Wed Aug 6 09:43:33 2008

Barry Wood, Manchester
For Linda Millward, would it be possible for you to give me any information you have on Nellie? I've tried looking her up on the indexes, but until I saw your letters here I would never have found her as I had never heard the name Mary Ellen used before. And do you know what the family connections are with Glyn Ceiriog? Think Andrew's grandmother Mary and 3rd husband moved there in about 1860. If you have any ideas your help is appreciated.
Tue Jul 1 08:18:51 2008

John Gossage, Liverpool
To John Beeston in France. Thomas Gostage was married to Mary Beeston but I don't have any dates for her. Her father was John Henry Gostage (b1832) and mother Mary. They had two daughters which I have traced - Edith and Charlotte Maud. Charlotte was buried in Everton in 1883. None of them are direct ancestors of mine. Hope this helps.
Mon Jun 30 08:07:54 2008

Barry Wood, Manchester
For Pete Mitchell, Linda Millward. Thank you for the family information you gave me Pete, it was a great help. Linda, sorry I don't have any details on Lucy yet.
Wed Jun 25 09:07:27 2008

Linda Millward, Derbyshire
For Barry Wood. Do you have any information of Jessie's cousin Lucy Peate born 1911 christened Jan 19th 1911 at Bronington Church. Married and moved to Liverpool married name Crane had a son and daughter. She was a witness to Nellie's marriage in 1927.
Tue Jun 24 08:27:05 2008

Pete Mitchell, Exeter
For Barry Wood:- As stated before I haven't been at this long so my details are sketchy. I didn't get interested until I was the only one left in our family but here goes; Ethel married Granville Mitchell in Chorlton in Aug 1924, Granville was born in Halifax 29 Nov 1900. They had five children, Leonard born 1924, Enid born 1926, Jean born 1929, Kenneth D.O.B unknown, he died as a teenager before I was born, and me 9 June 1945. I hope this goes some way to answering your request.
Thu Jun 19 08:00:47 2008

Kathi Vela from Exeter, NH
I am particularly interested in this castle for a number of reasons. I am in receipt of an old photo album, circa 1898, which shows pictures of a trip my great grandfather (Roland Hanmer Clark) took with his family around 1920 or so. There is a picture showing the castle, and noting it is the birthplace of Roland's ancestors. I do not have much other to go on, so would appreciate any information one is willing to share. I am from the US.
Wed Jun 18 08:48:53 2008

Linda Millward, Ashbourne, Derbys
For Barry Wood, Thank you for the information.
Wed Jun 11 09:11:58 2008

Barry Wood, Manchester
Hi Pete, thanks for getting in touch so quick. I have a favour to ask you. Would it be possible for you to send me some of your parents details. The only info I have on your mother is her birth date.
Wed Jun 11 09:02:39 2008

Pete Mitchell, Exeter
Hi Barry thanks for the information. I remember Jessie well as she, Annie and my mum used to holiday together. I also remember visiting Aunt Jessie in the early '70s in Manchester in the Rising Sun, off Albert Square.
Mon Jun 9 14:11:35 2008

Barry Wood from Manchester
For Peter Mitchel, Tracy King & Linda Millward. My grandmother was Jessie Peate. She was the younger sister to Andrew, Annie, Ethel and Nellie. My gran was born at Bradley, nr Malpas on the 28/06/1906 and Married Richard Wood in 1928 at Manchester. She died on 22/05/1978. She had two sons and six grandkids. Andrew was born 1904 in Halghton. Both he and Annie moved to Derby. He died Nov 1976. Annie married John Higginbottom in 1923 at Derby and died March 1992. Ethel & Nellie, I haven't much info on. If you're having problems finding my gran it could be because her name has been spelt three different ways; i.e. Pate, Peate and Peat and I think you will find her mother's name is Elizabeth Anne and she had three children before she married Andrew.
Mon Jun 9 08:05:37 2008

To Sharon from Colleen Cookson
Sorry didn't reply, forgot I had posted. My grandmother Ivy was born (I think) to a woman by the surname of Yoxhall. She didn't marry the father till 1902. My grandmother was two! (I think this info is correct). I think they moved away to the Manchester area. I don't know when but my grandmother married a Bill Bavies, whose family I believe hailed from Ellesmere. I presume this to be Ellesmere in Shropshire. She had a sister called Ginny and my grandmother's daughter Ivy said she used to visit family in Baschurch. I think she said they had a farm and there was a railway line that ran at the back of the house. Apparently some of their ancestors were "welsh chapel" preachers.
Fri Jun 6 07:45:15 2008

Anne Leach from Warrington
My husband has a silver christening cup engraved with "Violet Mary Leach from her Godmother, Mary, Lady Hanmer, June 1903". Can any one give me more info re Violet Mary Leach and Mary, Lady Hanmer please, thanks.
Tue May 27 09:20:56 2008

John Beeston in France
I am intrigued by the various references to Thomas Gostage and wife Mary in Liverpool. I am wondering whether perhaps her maiden name was Beeston as I have been looking for info about Thomas Gostage for a while.
Tue May 27 09:05:40 2008

Linda Millward, Derbyshire
Pete Mitchell, Exeter; I have photos of Annie & Ethel, Nellie and Jessie and others and have information of their cousins children of Alfred Peate, Andrew's brother.
Mon May 19 08:09:46 2008

Pete Mitchell, Exeter.
Hi Linda Millward. I had vague recollection of there being a Nellie Peate also of Jessie Peate - do you know anything about her? I have a distant memory of visiting aunt Nellie in or near a place near Aqualate? We lived in London Colney in Hertforshire and I also remember a Chris Peate visiting us there back in the 1950s. Do you have any more family history to relate do you have a family tree? I tried to find records of Annie Kynaston but had no luck - do you know what her maiden name was?
Fri May 16 08:56:37 2008

Linda Millward - Derbyshire
Pete Mitchell Exeter; my grandmother was Mary Ellen (Nellie) Peate born 1901. She was Annie & Ethel's younger sister. Her mother was Annie Kynaston and it was her second marriage and Annie Kynaston was from Whitchurch.
Wed May 14 11:30:00 2008

Mike Harnett
In my Hanmer line there seem to be some quite unusual Christian names, has anyone else got Urban, Mina or Alonzo Hanmer? My Hanmer line originated in Edgmond near Newport as far as I know.
Mon Apr 28 08:39:49 2008

Jo Down
I manage the Hanmer Arms Hotel in Hanmer. Since Feb 1 I've had visiting Hanmers from Seattle, Washington, USA, Pennsylvania, Texas and Arkansas. Obviously I can't give out my hotel's guest lists, but all of those guests were all here retracing their roots. The lady from Pennsylvania did mention that each year in August they hold a "Hanmer family reunion". You Hanmers out there should look into it.
Wed Apr 9 09:12:10 2008

John Hanmer, Brisbane, Australia
I am an adopted Hanmer fostered at first by Geoffrey and Audrey Hanmer, and then adopted by them in 1969 (the same day man landed on the moon) and migrated to OZ in 1970. Both my parents are now deceased. Dad's parents came from Liverpool and I suspect that Brian Hanmer Wirral (at the top of this page) is my uncle Brian, my dad's youngest brother. We also have relatives in Ohio U.S.A. My dad has also other brother and sisters Dorrie, Kathy, Ronnie and as mentioned Brian. Peace and love to you all, John.
Mon Mar 31 12:17:47 2008

Aine Waldron, The Villages, FL
My paternal grandfather, Charles Hamner Reasor, was named after his mother's family, the Hamners. My research shows that the spelling of the family name was changed from Hanmer to Hamner in the early 17th century when they migrated to Virginia. I am very much into genealogy and would welcome contacts.
Mon Mar 31 10:17:31 2008

Julian Hanmer
Hi there. My father was brought up in Worcester in South Africa, his father I believe came from the UK. I wonder if I could get an ancestral visa to Hanmer in New Zealand. Are there a few Hanmers there that will vouch for me ?
Tue Mar 25 14:27:47 2008

Michael Desmond Butler Northampton
I am the son of May Butler and grandchild of Edward and Elsie May Butler who lived at Tarts Hill. My uncles included Harry, Levi and Lloyd. Harry emigrated to Australia and Levi died at a very young age. I remember the Polish camp in Penley. I would love to hear from anyone that knew my family.
Fri Mar 14 07:54:20 2008

Claire Louise Hanmer, London
Wow I just found this site and would love to know more about my history. My father, Oliver William Hanmer, lives in Australia and knows quite a lot about our history (which I will find out when I visit). I know we are in Debretts/Burks peerage. Hello to anyone I am related to. Get in touch.
Wed Mar 12 10:29:01 2008

Tracy King, Wrexham
Hi Pete, thanks for the info, I didn't realise there were that many of them. My g g grandfather had 5 children and I thought that was quite enough. I dread to think how they kept them all in food and clothes.
Tue Mar 4 09:16:35 2008

Pete Mitchell, Exeter
Hi Tracy King. Yes it looks as if your gg grandfather and my grandfather were brothers, I have had contact with someone on Genes Reunited and found there were 11 children, John born 1874, Anrew b75, George b77, Alfred b78, Edwin b81, James b83, Marks b85, Harry b88, Mary Ann b89, Mary b91 and Albert b93, a very big family by today's standards.
Wed Jan 9 10:12:19 2008

Tracy King, Wrexham
Hi Pete Mitchell, it looks like your grandad and my great great grandad were brothers. I have read his obituary and it says that his father was Andrew and he had 3 brothers - A Peate, E Peate and John Peate, also Mrs Beckett and Mrs Eddes are named as his sisters. I can't see there being another family in the same little village with the same names can you? If I find out any more info I'll let you know, sorry I was so long getting back to you this time.
Mon Jan 7 11:43:38 2008

Pete Mitchell, Exeter, Devon
Hi Tracy King, my grandfather Andrew Peate was born in Bettisfield in 1875, his father was Andrew and his mother was Ann. He came from a large family and one of his brothers was George born in 1877 in Bettisfield. Could this be your grandfather?
Mon Dec 3 10:59:15 2007

Tracy King, Wrexham
Hi Pete Mitchell, After reading your message I have tried to look further into my family history through some documents a living relative has from the Peat side of the family. I haven't found any reference to your mum and aunt sadly. I have, however, got the names of my great great grandparents. They were George and Mary and had five children all born around the time or within ten years of your relatives. I imagine if they are not related they would have probably known each other, possibly played together as children.
Sun Nov 18 16:36:25 2007

Jack Eaton, now living in Pont Robert, Powys
I would like to contact John Gossage who wrote (18.08.2007) about his forbears from Hanmer. My great paternal great grandmother, Martha Jane Gossage was born Gostage in Croxton, Hanmer and migrated with her father to Liverpool, later marrying George Eaton.
Fri Nov 16 13:19:47 2007

David Evans
I too returned to Hanmer for Wendy Evans' (nee Williams) 65th birthday. A lovely place and I would welcome messages from anyone who remembers us at the Vicarage and in the local when Walter was the publican.
Tue Nov 6 13:36:20 2007

Samantha Evans, Cornwall
Me and my sister both spent our early childhood in Hanmer. We lived in the vicarage until the early eighties. My mother, Wendy Evans (nee Williams), also grew up in the village. We visited this weekend to celebrate her 65th birthday. Was good to be back after such a long time and Hanmer is still as beautiful as it was the day we left. I would like to trace my family tree and believe my grandfather was a gamekeeper at the Gredington estate. Does anyone remember us or my grandfather, John Williams?
Tue Nov 6 08:36:19 2007

Pete Mitchell from Exeter
Tracy, I have just traced my mother and her twin sister to Hanmer, they were born there in 1900, they were Ethel and Annie Peate. I haven't been able to visit Hanmer yet but hope to next spring.
Thu Nov 1 15:12:23 2007

Tracy King, Wrexham
My great aunts Gladys Higgins and Mary Hall (both nee Peate) lived the end of thier lives in the bungalows in Hanmer overlooking the Mere and St Chads, what a beautiful place to live.
Mon Oct 29 13:54:33 2007

Gordon Pop Green, Telford.
I was brought up by the Adams family of Charity Farm, Halghton. Remember Gladys Rojek nee Foster, Ernest and Elizabeth Foster. Had an evacuee we called Woggie - he was from Liverpool.
To Bryan Hallmark James, I remember the Hallmark youngsters from Glyn-Neath coming to stay with the parents of Joyce Kynaston nee Beckett in the summer holidays. Went to Hanmer School and was also in the cubs and scouts.
To Simon M Hopkins from Preston, your father married my wife and I at penley 23 March 1957. My wife Mavis Green (nee Lloyd) was nanny to the current Lord Kenyon. Lots of names on the website bring back memories. Many years ago we used to go swimming in the mere, and I have a permit allowing me to go swimming signed by the gamekeeper D Williams dated June 28 1953. Hanmer is a beautiful villiage with a wonderful setting of the church and mere. Visit Hanmer often to pay my respects to my guardians who are buried there.
Fri Oct 26 08:54:12 2007

Phillip Hamner from AmarilloT.X.U.S.A.
I'm trying to find out how we came to be from Germany and who our descendents are from there
Fri Oct 19 08:38:12 2007

John Gossage, Liverpool
My name family came from Hanmer having lived there for about 200 years up to the 1870s. The spelling changed slightly to Gostage but reverted to "ss" when they moved to Liverpool - industrial migration. I am really interested in what happened to my GGGrandfather - Thomas Gostage - who moved to Liverpool following his children but then "went back to Flint" - probably in the 1890s or 00s. I will willingly share my database with anyone interested. MSAccess and Family Tree Maker
Thu Oct 18 08:36:05 2007

Alan Burdett - Mold - North Wales
Reply to Sue Mattei - New Caledonia. The church in question is located at Llanyblodwel, a charming hamlet on the Shropshire/Welsh border. I hope this info. helps you in your search.
Tue Oct 9 10:34:53 2007

Sue Mattei, New Caledonia
Hi from the sunny South Pacific. Seems like one of the Hamner/Hanmers has ended up on a tropical island, quite a change from Manchester. I'm trying to find info on my gg grandfather ABEL who was married in the church at Clanebladwel (think it's spelt like that). Had 1 daughter Elizabeth who married a John Robinson from Manchester and 5 sons all killed in WW1. Cheers.
Wed Oct 3 08:32:34 2007

Sue Carnell, NSW Australia
Have been told that we are descended from Owen Meredith who married Margaret Hanmer daughter of Sir David Hanmer. Am trying to make the connection between Owen and John Meredith (wife:phebe/pheobe?) 5xgrt grndprts and their son John Meredith (4x grt grndfthr) B:c-1745 married Sally Turner 1767 St. Phillips Birmingham. John (1745) was a well known barrister and lawyer apparently descended from the Ameredith line of Devon and Radnorshire. So if John is descended from Owen, we have a 200 year gap. Does anyone recognise these names, can anyone help?
Wed Oct 3 08:31:25 2007

Helen Shuker, Wrexham
To Peter Hanmer, Perth, West Australia, who posted at the end of May about an Edwin Hanmer who married Violet May Potter. He was my great grandma's brother. I've got lots of information about the family if you want to get in touch - my email address is with the web team
Thu Sep 20 08:30:52 2007

Pat Hamner, USA
Me and two Hamner cousins are going to be visiting the villiage of Hanmer in Oct of 2007. We are descents of Sir Wm and son Humphry Hanmer. Anything we should check out while there? Are there any Hanmers living there besides Sir John? I just stumbled on this website today.
Tue Sep 18 08:21:17 2007

Steve Williams, Cheshire
For Jean Sumner. Looks like we are researching the same Benjamin Butler. One of Benjamin's sons was a William (abt 1819) who married Sarah Venables and lived in Horsemans Green. Their son James (my GG grandfather) moved to Stoke. Following on from William Russell Jones there is a baptism for a Benjamin Butler 4th Aug 1782 to Benjamin+Ann Butler (possibly Bettisfield).
Mon Sep 10 15:47:36 2007

Bill Barlow from Hanmer
For all those researching families the burial records back to 1800 for St Chad's Church Hanmer along with all the data from legible memorials in the churchyard can be found on www.openchurchnetwork.co.uk
Mon Sep 10 11:33:22 2007

William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
For Jean Sumner, there is a christening of a Benjamin Butler at Hanmer on the 16th of June 1811, to parents Benjamin and Mary Butler.
Wed Sep 5 16:13:20 2007

Jean Sumner, Wirral
We now find that we're looking for a Benjamin Butler who lived in Willington (a township of Hanmer?). He died before 1841. He had a son Thomas who married Mary Whitfield. They lived in New Lodge with their daughter Mary. The three are buried at St Chads.
Mon Sep 3 09:37:08 2007

Jean M, Manchester
I stayed in Gredington Hall, Hamner, during WW2 (1944-1947), as a child in hospital, after being evacuated from R Jones and Agnes Hunt's Ortho. Hospital, Oswestry. Between Gredington and Aston Hall.I remember when my mother visited, she stayed with the Butlers in the village, as mentioned by Jean Sumner previously.
Wed Aug 22 14:23:20 2007

MELINDA HANMER, PENTRAETH ANGLESEY N. WALES
I married a hanmer and the name is continued by my two sons and their sons. My husband and his family were very proud of their aristocratic connections and were always anxious to make sure the name continued. We had a very funny experience when visiting Hanmer church. There were seven of us who had the same experience. The church we were in is not the one that is there now. We know there was an earlier church on the site and we feel we must have been transported back in time. Has anyone had the same experience?
Fri Aug 3 07:48:10 2007

Justin Hanmer
I'm a Hanmer too! My family has traced us back to the Baritone of england in the 1300's. We also recieve information from the Hamners.
Thu Jul 19 14:43:48 2007

Kerry Edwards, Willenhall
I am trying to trace any living relatives of John Edwards, born 1842 Hanmer. I know he died in Willenhall, West Midlands. He was my great great grandfather.
Thu Jul 5 13:06:26 2007

Brendan Hamner
My great great great grandpa was Walter Fay Hanmer and when he came here from Germany his son's name was changed to HAMNER, which is what my name is today.
Tue Jul 3 09:53:23 2007

Elaine Hamner-Yard, USA
Sharon, NC... call my cell phone 425)772-2555. I have reference to Library of Congress books and a web site you can visit. The books can sometimes be accessedthrough your local library and some can be read on line in the library. Most of the books are "Rare" and require special arrangments by the University or Librarythat owns them i.e. Interlibrary Loans.
Mon Jun 25 09:15:41 2007

Saron Hamner from NC-USA
I see someone answered my e-mail[in March] of last January and said they could provide information to about the family--that a lady had just returned from there and had much information. Kindly respond soon. I have just discovered your reply. thanks so much.
Wed Jun 20 08:37:22 2007

Laura Whittock, Devon
Hello, my voluntary work for the National Trust has brought me in contact with Hanmers Hall or House and the family of Seale. Any information gratefully received.
Tue Jun 19 08:38:47 2007

Elaine Hamner-Yard
Hi Melvin, It has been a few years. Please call me on my cell 425)772-2555 I do have a little more information than I did 30 years ago. Hanmer Village is beautiful and I found a great website with wonderful pictues of that area to share.
Mon Jun 11 09:08:16 2007

Melvin Hamner - Texas
I'd like to make contact with my cousin Elaine Hamner-Yard. Have not seen her since our tour of the USS Hamner in Portland Oregon. I have not been able to finish the family tree between when the Hanmer name was changed in North Carolina and my branch in Alabama.
Fri Jun 8 09:51:12 2007

Chris Castle, Northwich
Great to see so much interest in the Hanmer family! I am researching my Hanmer ancestors and have the following information:
Thomas Hanmer B 1838 (Nantwich)
William Hanmer B abt1816 (Acton)
Charles Hanmer B abt1788 (Stretton/Tilston)
I am slowly getting nearer to Hanmer village, but am unable to go back any further - I would be pleased to know if any one has any more information.
Wed Jun 6 10:12:54 2007

Gloria Dodd (nee Hinton) from Whitchurch
Ted Roberts has lived at Magpie Cottage since 1940. He will be 99 in August. I have just called on him after going to the Arts and Craft Exhibition in Hanmer Church.It was very well done and Ted was on fine form.
Wed Jun 6 10:10:18 2007

Georgina Hanmer, Scottish Borders
Just looking through this with my father Alonzo Ronny Hanmer. Looking to trace back and possibly make up some family tree. My grandfather was also called Alonzo, my great grandfather Frederick "Fred" Hanmer, and we originate from the Oldham area of Lancashire. My father also said we may have ties with the Cubbins family. If anyone has any info, can you please contact me.
Mon Jun 4 15:09:09 2007

Peter Hanmer, Perth, West Australia.
Any information on an Edwin HANMER who was married to Violet May Potter? Had 3 sons one named Frank & one Edwin. The other one I cannot remember his name.
Tue May 29 09:10:12 2007

Chris Roberts, Aberdeenshire
I lived in the village for most of my life. It was a great place to grow up, it pleases me to hear all the good comments that everybody has, it's nice to see Pat is a granddad.
Mon May 21 11:01:17 2007

Danielle Amiee Hanmer, Runcorn
Hi there Hanmer folks.
Tue May 15 13:14:19 2007

Geoff Hanmer from Singapore/Adelaide
Hello to all the Hanmers throughout the world. I come from the Manchester Hanmers; my father was Edward Hyde Hanmer, one of four children orphaned at a relatively young age, so I don't have a good idea how we connect to the rest of you, but I am sure I do. My family moved to Australia in 1963, but I have been to Hanmer in Wales and Hanmer Springs in NZ, both charming places. Hanmers in the Hanmer (Wales) graveyard back to 1326 as I recall...
Fri May 11 07:50:01 2007

Hannah Hanmer
I also found out that besides the Hanmer in Wales there's one in Canada.
Wed May 9 08:34:40 2007

Hamner - Eads, Tennessee USA
Hi. If anyone has the lineage of Sir Jenkin Hanmer which ends up around Eads and Memphis, TN, please be so kind as to send a copy. There were many here at one time as landowners, and still are, even though much of the "kingdom" has been sold to developers. It's sad to see all of our homes, which are strategically marked with a "H" in the brickwork being sold or torn down. I am proud of our heritage and and believe some things are better left alone - to remain within the family. Anyway, I was very happy to find this site and hope there is someone out there who can help me.
Thank you,
Anneliese M. Jones
Thu May 3 08:49:55 2007

Mary Taylor, Lancashire
Would Jack Eaton please contact me regards his Gostage and Eaton Family Everton for family research. Thank you.
Mon Apr 30 08:59:39 2007

Margaret Challans, Northampton
Gloria Dodds must be another cousin, once or twice removed. I am trying to put my tree together, Ted Roberts' grandfather is my great grandfather. The early Hanmer church records are great fun, with some descriptions of how people died.
Mon Apr 30 08:41:29 2007

Gloria Dodd [nee Hinton]
My Uncle Ted Roberts lives in Magpie Cottage now. My mother lived there for 3 weeks whilst she had her banns read. Ted is in his 90s now, but should have loads of info on the cottage if you want me to ask him.
Mon Apr 23 10:03:10 2007

Kim Hanmer from N Wales
Hey I didn't realise how many Hanmers...haven't met another Hanmer that I don't know. I know some of my family live in Canada.
Mon Apr 16 09:20:28 2007

Mike Harnett living in Rutland
My maternal grandmother was a Hanmer, the daughter of John Hanmer and Mary Ann Rushton. John was the illegitimate son of Elizabeth Hanmer and William Bayley. John was born in Edgmond in c1817. I would like to ask if anyone has any Humphrys in their Hanmer line as Elizabeth's father was Humphry, unfortunately I can find no details about him other than his marriage and offspring.
Mon Apr 2 08:01:10 2007

Elizabeth Crewe, Wrexham
My grandad was born and lived in Magpie Cottage along with his large family. Does anyone have any information about the CREWE family? Bert was my grandad.
Mon Mar 26 11:07:09 2007

Ruth Hanmer - Coychurch
Andrew Hanmer, Gold Coast Australia: Oops, you are of course right. I did mean Hanmer Springs NZ and not Australia.
Adrian Mottram, Shrewsbury, Shropshire: Was your Jack Levi Hanmer b.1907 Son of Levi Hanmer from Cockshutt Shropshire b1878? I suspect he was. Levi married Alice Evans or Emily Perkins in district of Martley (near Great Witley) Worcestershire in 1906. Yes - one and the same. Levi married Emily Perkins.
Mon Mar 19 09:42:25 2007

IN REPLY TO SARON HAMNER-USA
I seem to think you may be wanting to trace some of your relatives (Hanmer family). If so I can put you in touch with a lady from USA who has just returned home probably with all the facts you need! Please get in contact.
Fri Mar 16 08:22:24 2007

THE HANMER ARMS-REOPENED
If you are visiting our beautiful village, can I strongly suggest you visit our recently refurbished and reopened village pub, The Hanmer Arms. Geoff & Sarah will give you a warm welcome. Please don't pass through the village without calling in. They have rekindled the spirit of the village. M.E.B.
Fri Mar 16 08:21:16 2007

John Owen, Warrington
After my father's death last year I began to try and trace my family tree and history. The only clues I had of my father was that we were Welsh and were in some way conected in the distant past to the last true prince of Wales. We always thought it was a bit of a tall tale until I discovered the family are from Hamner and the area has strong conections with Owain Glyndwr. If anyone has any information regarding the Owen family please get in touch. Thanks
Mon Mar 12 08:55:18 2007

Emma Owen from Wrexham
When is the Hanmer raft race please?
Mon Mar 12 08:20:43 2007

Barbara Anderson (nee Hanmer) Australia
Can anyone tell me the connection between the Hanmers of Hanmer, and the Hanmers of Shropshire (particularly Cockshutt)? I recall my father telling some family myth about his aristocratic (???) rellies, but have yet to prove it!
Mon Feb 12 11:38:59 2007

Years 5 & 6, St Chads, Hanmer
We are researching our local area and would appreciate if anyone can tell us the population of Hanmer please. Diolch yn fawr, Mrs Brooks and J, E, K, R, L, S, P, O, H, A, J, J, E, C and G.
Wed Jan 31 15:07:43 2007

Saron Hamner from USA
I would like to correspond with Pat Burns or anyone who lives in Hanmer and could provide information. Thanks.
Mon Jan 29 09:21:19 2007

Janet, Wakefield, Yorkshire
Yes Andrew Marsh.We may well be related ! My great, great, grandfather Thomas Marsh was one of John and Charlotte Marsh's children. He left Hanmer, headed to Yorkshire for work as a footman at Womersley. Then found work as a signalman for the Lancs and Yorks railway, met my g,g, grandmother and settled in Bradford.
Mon Jan 15 09:11:22 2007

Carole Hanmer, Runcorn
Hi to Tony Kirk in Wolverhampton. I think we may have met as I am the wife of Mark Hanmer, son of Keith, your mother's brother. I am also researching the past and those gone before. I would love to hear anything you know and we will do likewise
Thu Jan 11 08:10:43 2007

Gail Brealey from Western Australia
My distant relatives, the Gostage family,came from Hamner (1700s - early 1800s). I would be interested in sharing any information regarding this family.
Tue Jan 2 09:58:34 2007

Brian Hanmer, Wirral
Suprised at how many Hanmers there are. I have yet to meet anyone with the name who is not a relative. Have traced an Edward Hanmer who was my great/grandfather born in Kinnerley in 1826 and had 14 children.
Mon Dec 18 10:19:23 2006

Jack Eaton, Aberystwyth
Jo Grant: Willing to respond to her request.
Wed Dec 6 11:11:27 2006

Bethanie W
I think we are the only people who comment on here. COME ON HANMER FOLK show your appreciation! Goodness me! Anyhow, lets talk about the Funkeh5, they are like the most famous people in Hanmer! (apart from Lorna Sage). We make vidoes in Hanmer and put them on the internet for the world to see! These people are... me, Will Dodd, Jonny Dodd, Jenny Francis, and Jess Francis. If you would like to see these videos please go on www.youtube.com and search funkeh5. Thank you!
Wed Nov 29 08:07:38 2006

William Dodd, Hanmer
It took me so long to get to the bottom I've forgoten what to put. Oh well! Now I remember, the nonagon was the gang of primary school. Not like beat em' up gang, but the friendly gang where 9 people hanged out in the corner either on the yard in the winter or in the corner in the field in the summer, the members were me, Bethanie w, Jess F, Jess R, Rafe, Amy, Alex, Luca and Mark.
Mon Nov 27 11:43:41 2006

William Dodd, Hanmer
This is a beautiful village, with a shop and butcher, even though I'm in secondary school I remember the time when I went to Kingswood in YR6, that was my highlight in Hanmer primary! The worst was when the climbing frame got consficated from the school field, thanks to one person who it got consficated because he shook it an my brother Jonny fell off and fractured my brother's left arm, his writing arm, cheers, THANKS A LOT! (sarcastic note, if you were wondering)!
Thu Nov 23 11:26:37 2006

Bethany W
Wooooop Hanmer is the best! It's so good I've decided to write another comment! I went to Hanmer school and it is vandabbydozie! Look for William Dodd's comment he's one of the mates I met there!
Thu Nov 23 11:25:36 2006

Rupert Hanmer, Vancouver, Canada
I have only recently emigrated to Canada, and am Warwickshire born and bred. My great grandfather was a man called Francis Hanmer, who owned nuts and bolts factories in Birmingham all his working life. Does anyone have a family connection to this Hanmer mine? Or any light on Francis' roots?!
Thu Oct 26 09:36:14 2006

Hanmer Springs Village News
We are the local weekly newspaper for Hanmer in New Zealand and would love to hear from someone who could direct us to information to do a feature story on 'the other Hanmer'.
Fri Oct 20 09:56:22 2006

Carole Hanmer from Cheshire
My husband is Mark Hanmer, son of Keith Walter Hanmer, of Chester. Keith's parents were Mary and Joseph Hanmer of Chester, are there any relatives out there? We have never met any other Hanmers although there are graves at Blaken cemetery with the Hanmer name. Great to read other people's coments.
Mon Oct 16 09:39:52 2006

Butler, Hanmer
To Kari Rojek, Jill Twiss and Jean Sumner. My grandfather was Edward Bulter, brother of Elizabeth Foster. My father is Lloyd Butler, he was the youngest of Edwards 9 children, he still lives in Hanmer. My family remember Gladys moving out to Canada. I would like to collate the family tree, if anyone has any information, would love to hear from you
Mon Oct 9 08:31:52 2006

Sam Cooper (Whitewell)
I am a pupil at St Chad's school it is a great school and we have lots of fun and the teachers are very nice I really like going to St Chad's.
Tue Oct 3 10:56:38 2006

Elaine Hamner-Yard from USA
My sincere thanks and appreciation to Pat Burns and his family for meeting me and showing me around the beautiful village of Hanmer and surrounding area. I was able to attend services at St Chads and heard the children from the school present their Harvest Festival Service. The santuary is remarkably beautiful and the young voices came through clearly. The members have worked very hard to keep this church in great condition. It was a privilege to visit for several days and locate my ancestral home.
Mon Oct 2 11:14:25 2006

Kari Rojek, Canada
To Jill, My mother is in fact Gladys Rojek nee Foster and my father is Walter of Canada. I would love to hear from you also.
Thu Sep 14 07:44:03 2006

Adrian Mottram, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Was your Jack Levi Hanmer b.1907 Son of Levi Hanmer from Cockshutt Shropshire b1878? I suspect he was. Levi married Alice Evans or Emily Perkins in district of Martley (near Great Witley) Worcestershire in 1906. If so your husband is related to my wife and Barbara Anderson (Hanmer) Williamstown Vic. Austra also with an input to this site.
Fri Sep 1 09:31:31 2006

Mary Huxley nee Owen
Married in Hope church north Wales.
Mon Aug 21 15:09:07 2006

Jill Twiss, Chelmsford
To Kari, My husband's mother was Marjorie Twiss nee Foster and her parents were Elizabeth and Earnest Foster. Are you related to Gladys Foster who married a Polish gentleman whose name was Walter who also live in Canada? Would love to hear from you.
Tue Aug 15 09:16:32 2006

Barbara Anderson (Hanmer) Williamstown Vic. Austra
To Ian Hanmer - I remember your father, known to our family as "young Tom". My father was also Thomas, who also came out from England in the 1920s. I think both Toms drove trucks for Uncle Ted Hanmer, but your father became a contractor in his own right.
Wed Aug 9 07:33:47 2006

Andrew Hanmer, Gold Coast Australia
Ruth Hanmer from Bridgend/Cardif your geography is a little off. Hanmer Springs is not in Australia but New Zealand. I have visited Hanmer Springs in NZ and Hanmer in UK. Both places are very lovely and in each case was very pleased to have the same name.
Tue Aug 8 11:49:57 2006

Ruth Hanmer from Bridgend / Cardiff area of Hanmer
Married to Idris John Hanmer. His father b.1907 was Jack Levi Hanmer. His uncle, Tom Hanmer went to Austrailia where he founded the famous Hanmer Springs. This branch of the Hanmer family had moved to Great Whitley in Worcestershire by the 1900s. We have stayed in Hanmer several times and enjoy the village very much. We are now farming in Coychurch, Bridgend.
Mon Aug 7 08:23:36 2006

Victoria Adams, Washington DC
Hanmer's most famous resident was Owain Glyndwr - the leader of the Welsh War of Liberation (1400-15). He married Marged Hanmer in the parish church around 1383. Marged was the daughter of David Hanmer. Sir David Hanmer was a very important lawyer and judge. He was appointed serjeant-at-law in 1377 and attended the parliament at Gloucester in 1378 and Northampton 1380.In February 1383, he was made a Justice of the King’s Bench. He also served on the King Commission for Wales and the Marches. Owain Glyndwr was Sir David's ward. He probably lived in Hanmer between the death of his Grandfather and Father sometime around 1370 and 1375 when he left for London to study law.
Fri Aug 4 15:08:45 2006

Steve Jones, Leeds, W. Yorks
My father in law's great grandfather was called Levi Huxley and is buried in Hanmer. He had a son called Clarence. I wondered if it could be the same Levi Huxley as indicated by David Huxley above
Fri Jul 28 15:15:31 2006

PAT BURNS FROM HANMER
thank for passing my email onto the lady below, elaine hamner yard, i have returned her email today. i hope i may assist her with her enquiries.
Mon Jul 24 09:13:44 2006

Donna Stokes (Burns) Bronington
My daughter is a pupil at St Chads School in Hanmer. I just have to say it is a wonderful school. The staff are so friendly and have so much time for each and every pupil. They have regular contact with the local church and hold all the Christmas Concerts there which is great for children. I was also a pupil at St Chads and the attitude and atmosphere hasnt changed one bit. Keep up the good work and thank you for helping my daughter settle in so well.
Mon Jul 24 09:11:46 2006

Judy Eastwood Croydon Victoria australia
We are trying to trace my G.G. grandfather came out to Australia as John Hanmer-Jones. Had son Charles HANDMER (my G. granfather) and daughter Leah. Came out to Australia mid 19th century. John and son Charles returned to Wales, went to" the big house" but story goes had the door slammed in their faces.
Mon Jul 10 09:50:27 2006

Jo Grant, Australia
Would Jack Eaton please contact me re his Gostage/Gossage family. I am related to Samuel Keay, the veterinary surgeon mentioned, and would like to explore his relationship (brother-in-law?) to Thomas Gostage.
Fri Apr 28 07:40:54 2006

Patricia WILSON (nee HANMER)
I will be visiting Hanmer in May 2006 and would like to contact any relatives still in the village.I am the youngest daughter, of John Walden Born 1915 Sydney, Dec'd 1996 Albury NSW. I am looking forward to my visit very much
Tue Apr 18 09:45:25 2006

Silvia Clews from Crewe, Cheshire
Iam trying to trace the 'Purcell' family from Tallarn Green or Hanmer as it became known. I believe they had the mill at Sarn Bridge, and maybe The Bakehouse. My grand-mother was born there in 1860. Her name was Mary Ann Purcell.
Fri Apr 7 16:30:03 2006

Louise & Bethany Horseman's Green near Hanmer
We've lived in this area for around 5 years and enjoy it very much, Hanmer is a beautiful village and the annual raft race is a great village get together and everybody has fun. We would never want to move far from this area.
Sat Apr 1 15:15:21 2006

J. Hamner, USA
My father gave me a ancestery book, so I checked out one of the names online and it brought me here. I can't believe there are so many of you who are related to me! I think that is so awesome.
Sun Mar 26 20:53:59 2006

Adrian Mottram, Shrewsbury ,Shropshire
Just found the site.I am researching mine and My wife's family tree. Her name Janet Hanmer, father John, grandfather Edward, Edward,s brother Thomas (born c 1900) emigrated Australia. Children Barbara, Joyce, Edward Thomas, Alice, John Samuel, Helen Ruth, and another daughter.The Family originates from Cockshutt area Shropshire 19th century. Ian, is this your Thomas or is Edward Thomas your Thomas Edward
Sat Mar 25 21:22:32 2006

DAVID HUXLEY - CHEADLE HULME, CHESHIRE
My father, Joseph Huxley was born at Hanmer in 1907, one of nine children of Josiah Levi Huxley and Hannah (nee Moors.) The ancestry includes the family names of Kynaston, Butler Edge and Haycocks, all from the Hanmer/Bettisfield area. Anyone interested or with possible connections or further information would be welcome to contact via the website.
Wed Mar 22 21:49:06 2006

Kari Rojek, Canada
To Jean Sumner: My grandmother was a Butler who lived in the area until she passed on. I believe her name was Elizabeth Butler and she married an Earnest Foster. My grandparents and uncles are burried in the church yard in Hanmer. I will try to get further information for you if you wish.
Fri Feb 10 19:02:47 2006

Rowan Williams from Pershore
I am researching an early ancestor, Ellen Hanmer daughter of William Hanmer of Fennswood who died c.1570. Does anyone know whether there is a house of this name, or a likely candidate which may have changed its name? I'm sure it isn't synonymous with Fenns Hall.
Mon Jan 30 09:38:53 2006

Andy Marsh, Hull
For Alan Burdett from Mold I am researching my family tree and my great great grandfather Thomas MARSH was born in Hanmer. His father was a gardener (possibly at the Hall). He had at least two sisters. From the census, there is only one family of MARSH registered in Hanmer 1840-1860. Please contact me as we could be related.
Wed Jan 18 11:43:17 2006

Miles Hanmer, Cefn Mawr
I have been tryng to locate the Hanmer crest for a while now after being handed a family tree dating back to 1700, but would like to know if anyone has managed to trace it further to see if there is a link, trying to trace it back to OWAIN GLYNDWR
Wed Jan 11 23:18:29 2006

Jack Eaton
My father - who was brought up in Everton, Liverpool, often joked about his Salop forbears, the Gossage family. Having researched this, it turns out that his grandmother was born in Hanmer. The name was actually Gostage and she was christened Martha Jane. Her father was Thomas Gostage, married to Mary. He was a farmer but may have been ruined by the cattlepest that killed two thirds of cattle in this area in the mid-1860s. In the 1861 Census he is recorded as farming 94 acres but in the 1871 Census he and Martha Jane are recorded as living with Samuel Keay, the veterinary surgeon at Whixall. They relocated to Liverpool after 1876.
Sun Jan 8 18:18:42 2006

sharon, wales
to colleen cookson, couldn't help noticing your grandmother being from The Fields, Baschurch. she must have lived in no.2 as my grandmother was born at no.1 the fields. i believe there were only two cottages at the turn of the 1900s. i wonder whether your mother may have known my family. the parents being John and Mary (polly) Davies.
Tue Jan 3 17:45:36 2006

Colleen Cookson, Preston, Lancashire
my grand mother was an Ivy hanmer my mother traced family back to Baschurch and Stanwardine? In The Fields. In a grave yard at Baschurch we found other relatives by the name of Yoxhall and Kyrkham which I am prety certain are linked to the Hanmers, mum also said the links go back to the courts of the welsh princes. There are descendants of all these now living in Manchester and Preston and Cardiff. And many more which I have never met, judging by the locations of some of the people listed on here they are in all corners of the globe!
Mon Jan 2 10:50:02 2006

Edward and Charlotte Birch -Shrewsbury
We were brought up just outside Hanmer at Stryt Lydan farm during the late 50's early 60's.We remember the the two Scots brothers who were the local doctors Drs. McColl? The gamekeeper (also a Scot)was Mr.Bell and his wife was the local district nurse. Our father worked for Lord kenyon and we used to fish in Hanmer mere.My sister and I attended the Madras school in Penley at that time and we would be pleased to hear from anybody who remembers us
Sun Jan 1 11:26:39 2006

Sam Thomas from Hanmer
Me and my sister Phoebe have been living in Hanmer for around a year now and we have enjoyed every minute of it, a really nice area to visit!
Fri Dec 9 15:49:40 2005

ELAINE HAMNER-YARD, WASH ST
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL CHURCH AND GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO VISIT THIS WAY. YEARS AGO I WAS TOLD THAT SIR THOMAS HANMER, SPEAKER FOR THE HOUSE OF COMMONS DURING THE REIGN OF QUEEN ANN, WAS BURIED AT ST.CHADS. I WOULD LIKE TO CONTACT PAT BURNS OF HANMER TO DISCUSS IT,PLEASE.
Fri Dec 9 05:14:50 2005

Alan Burdett from Mold
I believe that my great-grandfather (Alfred Burdett) was for a time a gamekeeper on the Hanmer Estate. I understand that my great-grandmother's maiden name was Marsh. They had 4 children, William (my grandfather) & Marion, Margaret & Elizabeth (my great-aunts).
Mon Nov 21 10:17:44 2005

Bryan Hallmark James, West Sussex
My Grandfather Harold Hallmark born 1897, lived in Hanmer (Croxton Cottage)before moving to South Wales at the approx age of 16. My second cousin still lives in Croxton Cottage, her name is Joyce Kynaston (nee Beckett). I spent my holidays from the age of 4 fishing and roaming the fields of Hanmer. Many, many fond memories. Many names given on this site are familiar to me from those times. I knew the Higginsons from the Garage, Jack Vaughan, shopkeeper, Jack Roberts the butcher and many farmers in the area.
Fri Oct 21 17:12:11 2005

Layla San Martin Washington D.C U.S.A
I grew up in Hanmer. My Great-Grand Father, Grandfather (Roy Higginson), Father (Peter Higginson) and myself all went to Hanmer primary school. I have lived in the U.S.A now since 2000 and I can tell you that there is NO place like Hanmer! It is only now that I can appreciate the village life. I bring my family back at least twice a year so my children will know what an awesome place this truly is!
Fri Sep 23 16:20:07 2005

Ian Hanmer, Melbourne Australia
My father,Thomas Edward Hanmer migrated from Stoke-on Trent England in 1927 and I have always presumed that he would be able to trace his family back to the village of Hanmer. I visited the village in the 1980's and found it to be charming.
Mon Sep 12 03:21:17 2005

William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
I also have ancestors that originated in the Hanmer area, in particular the Lea Family that lived in the Hanmer area in the 18th Century. I have an Anne Lea born in c 1770 who married a Timothy Roberts of Overton. They are my Greatx3-Grandparents, and of course I would be keen to hear from any other Lea descendants.
Thu Jul 21 09:25:36 2005

Bill Barlow, Hanmer
Hanmer's most famous daughter is not Lorna Sage, but Margaret Hanmer daughter of Sir David Hanmer. In about 1380 she married Owain Glyndwr in St Chad's Church Hanmer. During 2005 there is an exhibition open daily about Owain Glyndwr in the church.
Sat May 7 17:19:32 2005

PAT BURNS FROM HANMER
I WAS THE LAST VILLAGE POLICE MAN TO LIVE AND WORK AT HANMER POLICE STN TILL IT CLOSED IN 1996. I STILL HAVE THE PLEASURE OF LIVING IN THIS BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE WITH MY WIFE.MY FAMILY ALL ATTENDED THE VILLAGE SCHOOL AND NOW MY FIRST GRANDCHILD ATTENDS THERE. I HAVE A GOOD KNOWLEDGE OF THE AREA AND WOULD BE PLEASED TO ANSWER ANY ENQUIRIES. ITS GREAT TO LIVE IN THIS "LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE",
Fri May 6 22:54:07 2005

Colin Hales
I am interested in the Political farm structure of Hanmer from 1800 to 1850. Was it small land owners, or Large tenant farms at that time,and who may have been the owner of the land? I am particullarly interested in any records of the Hales family that farmed at Hanmer.
Mon Apr 25 08:25:55 2005

Jill Twiss, Chelmsford
I grew up in Hanmer and many of my family still live there. I moved away when I got married to Robert Twiss who lived in nearby Tallarn Green. My late father,Roy Higginson and his sister Ivy Ward ran the village garage as did their father before them, Tom Higginson. My uncle Jack Vaughan and his wife Maude ran the village shop for many many years. I was married in the St Chad's Church 25 years ago and both my children were christened there. We go back home as often as we can and very little changes which is why it is so special to us.
Wed Apr 13 15:40:34 2005

Simon M-Hopkins from Preston
I was brought up in Hanmer, where my father was the vicar after the infamous cleric who had an affair with the local nurse, if we are to believe Lorna Sage's version of events in her award winning biog of the village 'Bad Blood'. He was also vicar at Bronnington and Bettisfield, if I remember correctly, and I went to church there many a time. I even got my first holiday job working for Mr Wardle at the Aluminium reclamation plants at Fenn's Bank [?], and remember the site being rather mucky and dusty, but often visited by anglers who went on to fish in the local meres. As the vicar's son, we often visited the Kenyon's, the other titled family in the village, as well as the Hanmers. One of my fondest memories was fishing in the lake at Hanmer with Mr Speakman, who I found out had been a machine gunner in the First World War. As a history teacher now, what an opportuntiy I missed.
Mon Feb 7 10:53:49 2005

Nick Roe, Wrexham
I have visited Hanmer several times and enjoyed your article, and would like to add a few words about 'not as ancient as it looks' St. Chad's Church. Here is a spacious late medieval church, a smaller brother of St. Giles', Wrexham. In 1889 it had both the misfortune of being gutted by fire, and the great good fortune of falling into the hands of George Frederick Bodley (1827-1907), the most scholarly and refined of later 19th century architects. Bodley must have appreciated the elegant design of this building, as in view of the post-fire photographs hanging in the church porch, it seems that he renewed accurately the arcades, the tracery and the camberbeam roofs of the aisles. What is unclear is what form the main nave roof took prior to the fire: on the west wall above the tower arch may be seen traces of scum left as the lead melted in the fire, and their line suggests a pitched roof as at present. Although fittings were lost in the fire, there was one great gain. Professor Owen Chadwick in 'The Victorian church' (1971) stated that 'the art of stained glass reached its zenith, not with the aesthetic innovations of William Morris or Edward Burne-Jones, but with the artist Charles Eamer Kempe [1837-1907]'. St. Chad's possesses three windows by Kempe in which we may appreciate his brilliant draughtsmanship and feeling for colour. The prolific archives of Kempe's workshop provided the basis for Margaret Stavridi's book 'Master of glass' which documents vividly the life of a Victorian craft studio. The one thing about St. Chad's that really looks modern is its tower, of startlingly vertical, minimalist form and devoid of adornment. This, though, is not as young as it looks, being part of the pre-fire structure; it must, though, have been an inspiration to Bodley for the towers he designed for St. Mary's, Eccleston, Cheshire (1899) and St. Chad's, Burton-on-Trent (1903). Outside the church, there are two more treasures. The War Memorial of 1919 designed by Giles Gilbert Scott echoes the late Gothic lines of the church; the 18th century wrought iron churchyard gates by Robert Davies who also made those at St. Giles', Wrexham.
Sun Apr 18 10:13:40 2004

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