Vacancy.

katex · 02-09-2011, 11:10

This is an advert in the Guardian, 15th February, 1865. Wonder who Mrs Hodgson was .. maybe just the Housekeeper ? Which wealthy family I wonder.

Love 'sobriety'. What's single-handed .. not married ?

"For a gentleman's family near Accrington, a butler, single-handed: none need apply without good character for sobriety and ability. - Mrs Hodgson"

Wonder if any members have memories of being a servant or tales from their ancestors.

MargaretR · 02-09-2011, 11:54

The story of 'service' in my family is that on my fraternal grandmother's side there was a maid and a groom at Downham Hall.

Less · 02-09-2011, 11:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by MargaretR

The story of 'service' in my family is that on my fraternal grandmother's side there was a maid and a groom at Downham Hall.

How romantic, did they ever get married?

Bob Dobson · 02-09-2011, 13:18

I think that 'single-handed' means unmarried'. Howe could he carry a heavy tray with only one hand?

Reference to the 1871 census may well reveal the name of the successful applicant.It will tell us too about he Hodgson family - were they the toffeemakers?

katex · 02-09-2011, 20:27

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob Dobson

Reference to the 1871 census may well reveal the name of the successful applicant.It will tell us too about he Hodgson family - were they the toffeemakers?

Could be them, Bob, had a factory near Platts Lodge (are pictures if you search on here), but wonder where they lived ? Must have been somewhere grand.