St Wilfrid's Catholic Cemetery, Preston

FURTHER INFORMATION:

John O'BRIEN:

John O'Brien was baptized on 28 Jul 1817 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. He was the son of John and Elizabeth O'Brien and the sponsors were John Brady and Ellen Sharroc (sic).

Without more information to go on it is difficult to be certain, but John and Elizabeth may be the couple who were married in Preston in 1812. John O'Bryan and Elizabeth Conroy, both of Preston, were married on 4 Sep 1812 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Isaac Smith, Curate, and the witnesses were Edward McNalley and Ellen Roper. The bride, groom and both witnesses signed the marriage register with an X.

I have not been able to find the baptism record for John and Elizabeth's first child, Thomas, but it may be that he was baptized before 1 Jan 1813 and his baptism was recorded in the missing St Wilfrid's register. The first of their children to appear in the registers was Mary Ann, who was baptized Mary Ann Brian (sic) on 30 Jul 1815, with sponsors Bernard Keening and Julie Madder. The next child baptized was the above mentioned John in 1817, and he was followed by Sarah, who was baptized Sarah O'Brien on 6 Jun 1819, with sponsors James and Sarah Hayes.

The 1820 Catholic census of Preston lists John Bryan (sic), aged 30, living at 12 Hardmans Yard with Elizabeth, aged 25; Thomas, aged 6; Mary Ann, aged 5; and Sarah, aged 1. This is the last record I can find of this family. They baptized no further children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, and do not appear in the 1841 census anywhere in Lancashire.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of James and Elizabeth O'NEIL:

James O'Neil and Elizabeth Morrisey were born in Ireland, as were their older children, so were almost certainly married there. They would have come to Preston sometime between the birth of their son Thomas, who was born in Ireland in about 1836, and the birth of their twins in Preston in 1838.

Bridget O'NEIL:

Bridget Neile (sic) was born on 30 Mar 1838 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 6 Apr 1838, with sponsors Francis Brophy and Eliza Clare. Her twin brother James was baptized at the same time, with sponsors Edward Fee and Ann Walsh. Both children survived initially, but Bridget died in infancy and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 4 Aug 1839, aged 1 year.

A little more than a year after Bridget's death James and Elizabeth had another child who also died in infancy.

Eliza O'NEIL:

Elizabeth Niel (sic) was born on 1 Nov 1840, and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 9 Nov 1840, with sponsors Michael Carny and Mary Sinclair. She was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 13 Jan 1841, aged 5 weeks.

On the night of the 1841 census James O Neile (sic), a labourer, aged c. 45, was living on Prescotts Yard, off Friargate, Preston with Elizabeth, aged c. 35, and four children, Catherine, aged 14; Patrick, aged 12; Thomas, aged 5; and James, aged 3. Catherine and Patrick were workers in a cotton factory, and all but James Jr were born in Ireland.

The following year their son John was born. He was born on 19 May 1842 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 22 May 1842, with sponsors Hugh and Elizabeth Shiels.

On 7 Apr 1845 Elizabeth gave birth to twins, Michael and Bridget, but Michael died the following day and was probably given an emergency baptism. His sister Bridget survived him by one week, and was baptized on 13 Apr 1845 at St Ignatius Catholic Church, with sponsors Francis Lilly and Ellen Kennedy. Michael was buried on 9 Apr 1845, aged one day, and Bridget was buried on 15 Apr 1845, aged one week. Both were buried in the churchyard at St Ignatius Church. Their address at the time was recorded as Dobson's Court.

James and Elizabeth had yet another daughter they called Bridget, who was born in Aug 1846, but her birth appears to have been registered under the name Richard Oneill. She was baptized on 9 Aug 1846 at St Ignatius Church, with just one sponsor, Mary Daly.

James and Elizabeth's son Patrick married Ellen Coggins in 1850, and their daughter Elizabeth was born on 23 Mar 1851. At the time of the 1851 census James O'Neal (sic), a warehouseman, aged 54, was living at 22 Vicar Street, Preston with his wife Elizabeth, aged 44, and his daughter Catherine, a cotton spinner, aged 22; his sons Thomas, a factory worker, aged 17; James, a factory worker, aged 13; and John, a scholar, aged 11; and his daughter Bridget, aged 4. Also living with him was his married son Patrick, a cotton spinner, aged 21; his daughter-in-law Ellen, aged 19; and his granddaughter Elizabeth, aged 1 week. James Sr, Elizabeth, Catherine, Patrick, Thomas and Ellen were born in Ireland, James Jr, John, Bridget, and his granddaughter Elizabeth were born in Preston. They also had three Irish lodgers living with them.

James O'Neill died on 4 Jan 1855, and was buried on 7 Jan 1855 in the churchyard at St Ignatius Church, aged 60 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Thursday week, James O'Neil, labourer, Seed-street, aged 60."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., Jan. 13, 1855

On the night of the 1861 census Betsy Neil (sic), a washer woman, aged 50, was living in Springfield Place, Preston with her son John, a self acting minder, aged 18; and her daughter Bridget, a cotton winder, aged 13. Also staying with her was her widowed cousin, Fanny Scott, a cotton weaver, aged 40; Fanny's daughter Elizabeth, a cotton winder, aged 18; and another niece, Margaret Whelan, a cotton spinner, aged 21. Everyone but John and Bridget were born in Ireland.

James and Elizabeth's son Thomas married Ann Stokes at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 17 Aug 1856 and by the time of the 1871 census Thomas O'Neil, a cotton spinner, aged 35, was living at 32 Byron Street, Preston, with his wife Ann, a cotton winder, aged 35, and three children, Elizabeth, a scholar, aged 12; John, a scholar, aged 9; and Joseph, a scholar, aged 4. Also living with him was his widowed mother Elizabeth, a housekeeper, aged 65; and his unmarried sister Bridget, a cotton weaver, aged 24. Thomas, Ann, and his mother Elizabeth were born in Ireland and the rest of the family were born in Preston.

I can find no record of Elizabeth O'Neill after 1871. She was not living with her son Thomas at the time of the 1881 census and I suspect that she died before 1881, but have not been able to find the record of her death or burial.

Note: Patrick and Ellen's daughter Elizabeth was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 30 Mar 1851, with sponsors Michael Clark and Mary Bahen.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of Henry and Rachel OLDHAM:

Henry Oldham and Rachel Whittle, both of Preston, were married on 8 Aug 1815 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by William Towne, Curate, and the witnesses were Henry Fayle and George Riley. The bride and groom signed the marriage register with an X. They had already been married in a Catholic ceremony at St Wilfrid's Chapel six days earlier. Henry Holdum (sic) and Rachel Whittle were married on 2 Aug 1815, witnessed by Peter Taylor and Ellen Preston.

Henry and Rachel settled in Preston and baptized at least five children in St Wilfrid's Chapel, beginning with Elizabeth, who was baptized Elizabeth Holdum (sic) on 23 Jun 1816, with sponsors Ed. and Margaret Holdum. She was followed by Helen, who was baptized on 14 Jun 1818, with sponsors Thomas Oldham and Helen Whittle. Their third child was Henry, who was baptized Henry Holdum (sic) on 4 Apr 1820, with sponsors Thomas and Ann Holdum; followed by Alice, who was baptized on 17 Oct 1821, with sponsors John Corbishley and Alice Oldham; then Rachel, who was baptized on 27 Apr 1824, with sponsors James Park and Elizabeth Oldham.

Within a six month period in 1826, Henry and Rachel lost two of their children.

Alice OLDHAM:

Alice Oldham, who was baptized on 17 Oct 1821, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 10 Jan 1826, aged 4 years.

Henry OLDHAM Jr:

Henry Oldham Jr, who was baptized on 4 Apr 1820, was buried on 10 Jun 1826, aged 6 years. The burial transcript records his age as 9 years.

You would think that with Oldham being the name of a large town less than 40 miles from Preston, people would be familiar with the name and how to spell it, but one of the problems researching this family is the number of different ways their surname was spelled in various documents. The next record I can find of the family is from 1840.

Mrs Rachel OLDHAM:

Rachel (Whittle) Oldham, who was born in about 1793, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 15 Jan 1840, aged 46 years.

On the night of the 1841 census Henry Holding (sic), a malt crusher, aged c. 50, was living in Main Sprit Weind, Preston with Rachel, aged c. 15, and Richard, aged 1. The 1841 census does not record the relationships between individuals, but we know from later records that Richard was Henry's grandson.

Rachel Oldham, a spinster, aged 25, of Old Cock Yard, married Patrick Lacey, a bachelor, aged 26, a labourer, of Old Cock Yard, on 2 Feb 1851 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. Patrick was the son of John Lacey, labourer, deceased, and Rachel was the daughter of Henry Holden (sic), a watchman. The bride, groom and Bridget Holden signed the marriage register with an X. Rachel's surname was spelled Holden in the church register. Rachel and Patrick's marriage would have been a matter of some urgency, as their first child, Henry, was born less than four weeks later.

At the time of the 1851 census Henry Holdham (sic), widower, a labourer, aged 68, was living at 6 Old Cock Yard, Preston with his married daughter Rachel, aged 25; his son-in-law Patrick Lacey, a labourer, aged 26; his grandson Henry Lacey, aged 1 month; and his grandson Richard Holdham (sic), a scholar, aged 10. Henry Oldham was listed as born in Longridge, Patrick Lacey was born in Ireland, and the rest of the family were born in Preston. Also staying with them were three lodgers and seven visitors.

Patrick and Rachel's son died in 1852 and later that year they had another son they also called Henry, who was born on 14 Oct 1852. They went on to baptize three more children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, Ellen in 1856, Rachel in 1858, and Elizabeth in 1861. On the night of the 1861 census Patrick Lacy (sic), a fellmonger, aged 34, was living at 3 Coffee Gardens, Old Cock Yard, with Rachael, aged 34, and four children, Henry, a scholar, aged 8; Ellen, a scholar, aged 4; Rachael, aged 2; and Elizabeth, aged under 1 month. Also staying with them was Rachel's widowed father Henry Oldham, a malt crusher, aged 74, and her nephew Richard Oldham, a cabinet maker, aged 23. Patrick was listed as born in Ireland, Henry Oldham was born in Ribchester, and the rest of the household were born in Preston.

Elizabeth Lacey died later in 1861, and in 1866 Patrick and Rachel had another daughter that they called Elizabeth. She was born on 5 Nov 1866 and was baptized at St Augustine's Catholic Church in Preston on 11 Nov 1866, with sponsors Michael and Sebina Brady. The baptism register records Rachel's maiden name as Holding.

Henry Oldham, of Main Sprit Weind, Preston, was buried under the name Henry Holden on 24 Dec 1866 in a public grave, D-12, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 78 years.

Note: When the birth of Rachel's first child was registered her married name was spelled Lacey and her maiden name was spelled Oldham. With each subsequent birth her surname was spelled either Lacey or Lacy, and her maiden name was spelled Holden. The baptism entries were similar, with the exception that, when a maiden name was recorded, it was spelled either Oldham or Holden.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The OLDHAM Family of Dale Street:

The 1832 Preston electoral rolls lists John Oldham, Henry Oldham, and James Oldham, spinners, all living at 11 Dale Street. It's impossible to know from this if these men were brothers, a father and two sons, or some other relation. However, later records seem to show that Henry was the father of John - and it's likely that he was also the father of James.

There were two people called Ann Oldham, an infant and a teenager, buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery from an address in Dale Street, but there is no way to know how they were related to each other or to the men listed in the electoral rolls, with the possible exception of the infant Ann, who may have been the daughter of the John Oldham.

Ann OLDHAM (1):

Ann Oldham was baptized on 5 Dec 1830 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. She was the daughter of John and Elizabeth Oldham, and the sponsors were Roger Daniel and Ellen Oldham. She may have been the Ann Oldham, of Dale Street, who was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 15 Apr 1831, where her age was recorded as "infant".

Ann OLDHAM (2):

The second Ann Oldham, of Dale Street, was born in about 1821 and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on22 Oct 1839, aged 18 years.

It seems that John's wife Elizabeth died some time after Ann's birth, as he was a widower when he remarried in 1838. John Oldham, widower, aged 31, a spinner, of Dale Street, the son of Henry Oldham, a labourer, and Ann Borwick, a spinster, aged 32, a piecer, of Dale Street, the daughter of John Borwick, a shoemaker, were married on 4 Jun 1838 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married by Charles Wagstaff, Curate, and the witnesses were Thomas Preston and Mary Garstang. The bride, groom and Mary Garstang signed the marriage register with an X.

On the night of the 1841 census John Oldham, a cotton spinner, aged 36, was living in Dale Street with Ann, aged 36, and one child, Thomas, a cotton piecer, aged 13. Theirs was the only Oldham family living in Dale Street at that time.

John and Ann had no children together, and at the time of the 1851 census John Oldham, a brewer, aged 48, was living at 13 Back Percy Street, Preston with his wife Ann (called Nanny in the census), aged 45. Staying with them were four lodgers, Thomas Borrick, a spinner aged 22; John Borrick, a labourer, aged 48; David Borrick, a loomer, aged 20; and William Borrick, a weaver, aged 15. Although the spelling of their surname is slightly different, these lodgers may have been related to Nanny (Borwick) Oldham. John Oldham was listed as born in Brindle, David Borrick was born in Cheshire, and the rest of the household was born in Preston.

On the night of the 1861 census John Oldham, a brewer, aged 53, was still living at 13a Percy Street, with Ann, aged 53. Also staying with them was an unmarried lodger, James Worden, a brewer's hand, aged 30. John and James were listed as born in Brindle, and in this census Ann's birthplace was recorded as Shap, Westmorland.

John Oldham, of 13a Percy Street, died in Preston and was buried on 10 Mar 1866 in a public grave, J-614, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 60 years.

Although Ann Borwick was a spinster at the time of her marriage to John Oldham, she did have at least one child. At the time of the 1871 census Thomas Borwick, a cotton winder, aged 42, was living at 23 Sussex Street, Preston with his wife Jane, a cotton winder, aged 30, and three children, Mary Ellen, a scholar, aged 10; John James, a scholar, aged 7; and Lucy Ann Jane, aged 2. Living with him was his widowed mother, Ann Oldham, a housekeeper, aged 67. Jane Borwick and their two older children were listed as born in Kirkham, and the rest of the household was born in Preston.

Ann Oldham lived with her son for the rest of her life, and at the time of the 1891 census, aged 80, she was listed as the head of household and her son and his family were living with her, still in Sussex Street. Ann Oldham, of 22 Sussex Street, was buried on 20 Feb 1892 in a private grave, Y-480, in a Church of England section of Preston Cemetery, aged 75 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...PRESTON, Since our last: - Ann Oldham, Sussex-street, aged 75 years."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 27 Feb 1892

Note 1: Ann's actual age at the time of her death would have been about 87 years, but her age fluctuated (mainly downwards) throughout her life.

Note 2: John Oldham's first marriage may have been to Elizabeth Birtwhistle on 23 Oct 1830 at St John's Parish Church. I can find no record of his first wife's death or burial.

Note 3: Thomas Borwick was baptized on 7 Dec 1828 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. He was the son of Anne Borwick, a piecer, of Dale Street, Preston.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Edward and Elizabeth OLDHAM:

I can find no record of Edward and Elizabeth's marriage - if in fact they were married. Because the 1841 census did not record the relationships between people, it is impossible to be sure how people who lived at the same address were related. It may be that they were siblings or some other relation. Edward and Elizabeth Oldham seem not to have lived in Preston long, they were not listed in either the 1810 or 1820 Catholic censuses of Preston, and Edward was not listed in the 1832 Preston electoral rolls.

On the night of the 1841 census Edward Holdam (sic), a cotton winder, aged c. 55; was living in High Street, Preston with Elizabeth, aged c. 45. Also staying with them was Ann Rigby, aged 8. They were all listed as born in Lancashire. Edward died six years later.

Edward OLDHAM:

Edward Oldham, who was born in about 1804, died in Preston on 22 Oct 1847 and was buried three days later in St Wilfrid's Cemetery, aged 43 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...;yesterday week,...Edward Oldham, High-street, aged 43;"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 30 Oct 1847

Elizabeth survived Edward by about 18 months.

Elizabeth OLDHAM:

Elizabeth Oldham, who was born in about 1795, died in Preston and was buried on 25 Apr 1849 in St Wilfrid's Cemetery, aged 53 years. Her death was registered under the name Elizabeth Holden, and there was no death notice published.

Note: Although the death records and newspaper notice all record Edward's age as 43, I suspect he was several years older. If his age in the 1841 census is accurate, he would have been about 61 in 1847. The census shows that Edward was about ten years older than Elizabeth, but the ages recorded at their deaths would mean that she was nine years older than him.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of James and Bridget OLDHAM:

James Oldham, a bachelor, and Bridget Pennington, a spinster, both of Preston, were married on 12 Dec 1832 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Roger Carus Wilson, Vicar, and the witnesses were John and Ellen Oldham. The groom and both witnesses signed the marriage register with an X.

James and Bridget's first child was Robert, who was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 29 Dec 1833, with sponsors John Hodgeon and Helen Snape; followed by Mary, who was born on 8 Oct 1835 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 11 Oct 1835, with one sponsor Mary Slack. It appears that Mary died in infancy but I can find no record of her death or burial. James and Bridget's third child died in infancy.

Henry OLDHAM:

Henry Oldham was born on 12 Nov 1837, and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 27 Nov 1837, with sponsors James Willacy and Mary Slack. He was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 20 Dec 1839, aged 2 years.

Three weeks after burying their son, James and Bridget's fourth child was born, another son they called Henry. He was born on 13 Jan 1840, and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 19 Jan 1840, with sponsors George and Helen Snape.

On the night of the 1841 census James Oldham, a cotton spinner, aged c. 30, was living in Park Road, Preston with Bridget, aged c. 30, and two children, Robert, aged 7; and Henry, aged 1. Also staying with them was Mary Ann Pennington, aged 12, who may have been a relative of Bridget's. They were all listed as born in Lancashire.

James and Bridget's family continued to grow with the birth of Agnes, who was born on 5 Feb 1842, and was baptized Agnes Holden (sic) at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 20 Feb 1842, with sponsors Robert Holden and Ellen Banks; and James, who was born on 25 Nov 1843, and was baptized James Holden (sic) St Augustine's Catholic Church on 26 Nov 1843, with sponsors Thomas Coupe and Helen Holden.

Thomas OLDHAM:

Thomas Oldham was born on 21 Jan 1846, and was baptized Thomas Howdom (sic) at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 4 Feb 1846, with sponsors John Coupe and Mary Howdom (sic). He lived less than one year, and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 6 Jan 1847, aged 11 months.

About a year after their son's death they had another son and called him Thomas. He was born in about the spring of 1850 but was not baptized at either St Wilfrid's, St Ignatius, or St Augustine's Churches, which were the only Catholic churches in Preston at that time. He died in the same year but I can find no record of his burial. I suspect that he was buried in the churchyard at St Augustine's Church, but their burial register for that period appears to be missing.

At the time of the 1851 census James Oldham, a shop keeper, aged 40, was living at 5 Holden's Square, Preston with his wife Bridget, aged 37, and four children, Robert, a weaver, aged 17; Henry, aged 11; Agnes, aged 9; and James, aged 7. Also staying with them were 31 lodgers. It is difficult to read James' full occupation other than Shop Keeper, but it may have been a beer shop and lodging house. James Sr was listed as born in Ribchester, Bridget was born in Ulverston, and their children were born in Preston.

On the night of the 1861 census James Oldham, a brewer, aged 47, was living at the Amby Power pub in Dale Street Preston with Bridget, aged 47, and two children, Agnes, a cotton weaver, aged 19; and Alice, aged 2. Also staying with them were five lodgers. It is doubtful that 2 year old Alice was actually the daughter of James and Bridget, and I can find no record of her after 1861.

James and Bridget's daughter married James Hartley, a widower with children, on 27 Aug 1870 at St John's Parish Church, and at the time of the 1871 census James Oldham, a brewer, aged 57, was living at 24 Pole Street, Preston with Bridget, aged 55. Living with them was their married daughter Agnes Hartley, a cotton weaver, aged 29; their son-in-law James Hartley, a cotton weaver, aged 29; and their son-in-law's three children, Joseph Hartley, a scholar, aged 8; Henry Hartley, a scholar, aged 6; and Thomas Hartley, aged 2. In this census James Oldham's birthplace was recorded as Hothersall, Bridget's was Ulverston, and the rest of the household were born in Preston. James died seven years later and was buried on 14 Nov 1878 in a public grave, G-211, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 68 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...PRESTON - Since our last:...John (sic) Oldham, Workhouse, 68:"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 16 Nov 1878

Bridget survived her husband by about three months, and was buried on 15 Feb 1879 in a public grave, G-220, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 68 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...PRESTON - Since our last:...Bridget Oldham, Workhouse, 67:"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 15 Feb 1879

Note: Bridget Pennington may have been the daughter of Agnes Pennington. She was born on 15 Mar 1812 and was baptized on 29 Mar 1812 at St Mary's Parish Church in Ulverston.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of Henry and Mary OLDHAM:

Henry Oldham and Mary Isherwood, both of the Parish of Ribchester, were married on 19 Jun 1803 at St Wilfred's Parish Church in Ribchester. They were married after Banns by James Quartley, Vicar, and the witnesses were John Hawser and Thomas Gregson. The bride, groom and John Hawser signed the marriage register with an X.

Henry and Mary began their married life in the neighbourhood of Ribchester, and baptized at least five children at St Peter and St Paul's Catholic Church in Ribchester, beginning with Elizabeth, who was baptized Elizabeth Owdom (sic) on 31 Jul 1804, with Godparents Joseph Eastom (Eastham) and Jane Owdom (Oldham). The next child to appear in the registers was James, who was born on 24 Nov 1809, and was baptized the same day; followed by Margaret, who was born on 25 Feb 1812, and was baptized the following day, with Godparents William Wardon and Grace Ashton. She was followed by Helen, who was born on 2 Jun 1814, and was baptized on 4 Jun 1814, with Godparents George Rocklif and Ann Howarth. The last of their children to be baptized in Ribchester was Jane, who was born on 27 Mar 1819, and was baptized Jane Holdham (sic) on 31 Mar 1819, with only one Godparent, Alice Estham (Eastham).

Some time after Jane's birth Henry and Ann moved to Preston, where their last known child was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel. Robert Oldham was baptized on 9 Jun 1823, with sponsors James Waterhouse and Margaret Brown.

At the time of the 1841 census Henry Oldham, an agricultural labourer, aged c. 60, was living in Holding's Yard with Mary, of independent means, aged c. 60, and one child, Robert, a cotton piecer, aged 18. Also staying with them was Edward Southert, aged 9; and Richard Packer, a cotton spinner, aged 27. They were all born in Lancashire.

Henry and Mary's daughter Jane, who had married Richard Eaves at St Mary's Church in Penwortham in 1840, became a widow when her husband died in the House of Recovery on 5 Jul 1850, aged 34. On the night of the 1851 census Henry Oldham, a labourer, aged 72, was living at 5 Poplar Street, Preston with his wife Mary, a house servant, aged 72, and their married son Robert, a weaver, aged 29; his wife Alice, a weaver, aged 28; and their four children, Richard, a scholar, aged 9; Mary, a scholar, aged 7; Henry, aged 3; and John, aged 6 months. Living with them was Henry's widowed daughter Jane Eaves (spelled Heaves in the census), a house servant, aged 32, and her four children, John, a scholar, aged 12; Betsy, a scholar, aged 10; Henry, a scholar, aged 7; and Robert, aged 3. Also staying with them was an unmarried lodger, Edward Laishwood, a weaver, aged 19. Henry Oldham's birthplace was listed as Hothersall, Mary's was not listed, but the rest of the household were born in Preston. Mary died almost exactly one year later.

Mrs Mary OLDHAM:

Mary (Isherwood) Oldham, who was born in about 1779, died on 9 March 1852 and was buried on 14 Mar 1852 in St Wilfrid's Cemetery, aged 72 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Tuesday last,...Mary Oldham, poplar-street, aged 72."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 13 Mar 1852

Henry Oldham, a labourer, of Walker Street, Preston was buried on 4 Sep 1860 in grave J-711 in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 84 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...Since our last:...Henry Oldham, Walker-street, 84;"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 8 Sep 1860

Note 1: Henry's address at the time of his death was Walker Street, Preston. In 1861 his son Robert was living at 31 Walker Street.

Note 2: The baptism entry for Elizabeth was in Latin and did not include her mother's maiden name. The entries for Margaret and Helen recorded their mother's maiden name as Isherwood, and the entries for James and Jane recorded it as Usherwood.

Note 3: Jane's husband Richard Eaves died in Jul 1850. Death Notice: "DEATHS...Yesterday week, Richard Eaves, House of Recovery, aged 34." Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 13 Jul 1850

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Mary Ann ORMANDY:

Mariana Hornaby (sic) was born on 2 Dec 1840, at was baptized on 6 Dec 1840 at St Ignatius Catholic Church in Preston. She was the daughter of William and Mary, and the sponsors were James Parker and Ellen Rigby.

William Ormandy and Mary Hatch, nee Barker, a widow, were married at St Mary's Parish Church in Penwortham in 1838. Unfortunately, there was a devastating fire in the church on 6 Jan 1857 and all of it's registers were destroyed, however, as this marriage took place after the start of civil registration, a copy of the marriage certificate is available.

William and Mary's first child together was Jane, who was born on 5 Dec 1838, and was baptized Jane Ormady (sic) on 9 Dec 1838 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors Joseph Barker and Elizabeth Boulton. Their daughter Mary Ann was their second child, and at the time of the 1841 census William Ormandy, an agricultural labourer, aged c. 35, was living in Hopwood Street, Preston with Mary, aged c. 35, and two children, Jane, aged 2; and Mary, aged 6 months. Also living with them were two of Mary's children by her first marriage, Charles Hatch, aged 14; and Margaret Hatch, aged 12. They were all listed as born in Lancashire. Two years later their third and last child was born. John Ormandy was born on 16 Sep 1843, and was baptized John Ormerod (sic) at St Ignatius Catholic Church on 18 Sep 1843, with sponsors Thomas and Sara Barker.

On the night of the 1851 census Mary Ormerod (sic), a housekeeper, aged 50, was living at 3 Harrison's Yard, Fishergate, Preston with her son Charly Hatch, a brush maker, aged 24; her daughter Margaret Hatch, a weaver, aged 22; her daughter Jane Ormerod, a weaver, aged 12; and her son John Ormerod, aged 7. Mary was listed as being married, but William was not at home on the night of the census. I suspect that their marriage had broken down and that William was the man listed in the census as William Hormandy, a brick maker, aged 49. Although listed as married, he was living as one of six boarders in the home of Thomas and Margaret Seed, at 6 Peel Street, Preston.

Sometime after 1851 William Ormandy appears to have died, but due in part to the various surnames recorded for this family, I've been unable to find any record of his death or burial. I base the notion that he died after 1851 on the fact that in 1861 Mary was described as a widow.

By 1861 the family seem to be using the surname Hornby consistently. At the time of the 1861 census Mary Hornby, widow, a housekeeper, aged 62, was living at 54 Egan Street, Preston with three children, Margaret Hatch, a cotton weaver, aged 28 (sic); Jane Hornby, a cotton weaver, aged 21; and John Hornby, a cotton warper, aged 17. With the exception of Mary, who was born in Brindle, they were listed as born in Preston. Jane married William Cross in Preston later that year and the marriage register index recorded her surname as Hornby.

Mary (Barker) Hatch-Ormandy died in 1867 and her death was registered under the name Mary Hornby. She was 68 years old.

Note 1: When Mary married William Ormandy she was the widow of Thomas Hatch. Thomas Hatch and Mary Barker, both of Preston, were married on 22 Dec 1817 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Matthew Mark, Curate, and the witnesses were Nancy Wilding and Lawrence Tomlison. Thomas and Mary both signed the marriage register with an X. They had seven children baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel, four of whom died in infancy and are buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery. Thomas Hatch died aged 39 and was buried in the churchyard at St Paul's Parish Church on 31 Jan 1834. His abode was recorded as Everton Gardens. More information will be included under the surname Hatch.

Note 2: I have not been able to locate the burial record for Mary (Barker) Hatch-Ormandy, but there was a Mary Hornby buried in Preston Cemetery on 18 Apr 1867. Her age was recorded as 7 months, but there is no record of an infant with that name listed in the Preston death indexes for 1867.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of John and Dorothy ORRELL:

John Orrell and Dorothy "Dolly" Sideman, both of the Parish of Winwick, were married on 9 Jan 1796 at St Oswald's Parish Church in Winwick. They were married after Banns by John Lowe, Curate, and the witnesses were Robert Cross and John Standish. Some researchers believe that Dorothy's surname was Tideman, but looking at the Bishop's Transcript and comparing the handwriting to other names, it looks to me to be Sideman.

After marrying in Winwick, almost 30 miles south of Preston, the couple settled in Preston and baptized their children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, beginning with James Michael, who was baptized on 29 Sep 1796, with sponsors James and Elizabeth Taylor. Their second child was Mary, who was baptized on 1 Mar 1799 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors George Holiday and Catherine Heatly, but she died with a couple of weeks and was buried in the churchyard at St John's Parish Church in Preston on 17 Mar 1799. Their third child was Christopher, who was baptized on 20 Apr 1800, with sponsors George Holliday and Catherine Heatly. He was followed by Joseph, who was baptized on 9 May 1802, with sponsors Joseph Dilworth and Isabel Arkwright.

Unfortunately, there is a gap in St Wilfrid's records from March 1803 to Jan 1813, so it is impossible to know how many children John and Dorothy may have had during that period, but it is clear from other records that they had a daughter Jane in about 1804, and a daughter Ann about 1808. The next child to appear in the registers is Dorothy, who was baptized on 17 Apr 1814, with sponsors Thomas and Mary Walker.

At the time of the 1820 Catholic census of Preston John Orrell, aged 45, was living in Friargate with Dorothy, aged 45, James, aged 23, Joseph, aged 18, Jane, aged 16, Ann, age 12, and Dorothy, aged 3, but John was widowed the following year.

Dorothy ORRELL:

Dorothy (Sideman) Orrell, who was born in about 1774, died in Preston and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery in May 1822, aged 47 years. The burial transcript does not record the exact burial date. Dorothy's daughter followed her to the grave six years later.

Ann ORRELL:

Ann Orrell, who was born in about 1808, during the period for which the records are missing, was buried on 22 Sep 1828, aged 20 years.

Ann Orrell's burial is the last confirmed record I can find of this family, who seem to have left Preston after that date.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of John and Margaret ORRELL:

John Orrell, a watchmaker, aged 35 and Margaret Smith, a spinster, aged 26, both of Preston, were married on 12 Oct 1811 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married, by licence, by Thomas Brocklebank, Curate, and the witnesses were Henry Smith and Margaret Brown, who signed the marriage register with an X. The marriage register entry did not include John's occupation, Margaret's marital status, or their ages, which was recorded on the Marriage Bond.

John Orrell's Signature

Marriage Announcement:

"MARRIED...On Saturday week, Mr. John Orrel (sic), watch-maker, to Miss Margaret Smith, both of Preston,"

Published in the Lancaster Gazette, Sat., 26 Oct 1811

The St Wilfrid's registers are missing for the period from 1803 to 1812, so there is no way to know if John and Margaret also had a Catholic marriage ceremony, or what children they had during that period. Their daughter Mary would have been born in about 1812. The first of their children to appear in the baptism registers at St Wilfrid's Chapel is Ann, who was baptized on 9 Jun 1814, with sponsors Richard and Elizabeth Pemberton. Ann was followed by the first of two children to be called Ellen, who was baptized on 18 Jul 1815 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors Henry and Alice Smith. She died in infancy but I have been unable to find her burial record. St Wilfrid's Cemetery was not yet open and she is not listed in the burial records at St John's Parish Church, although there does appear to be a gap in their burial records from early September 1815 until January 1816.

John and Margaret's next child was another daughter they called Ellen, who was baptized on 21 Dec 1816 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors Henry and Alice Smith. She was followed by Alice, who was baptized on 8 Sep 1818, with sponsors Thomas Walker and Margaret Brown.

The 1820 Catholic census of Preston lists John Orrell, aged 42, living at 27 Friargate with Margaret, aged 33, Mary, aged 8, Ann, aged 6, Ellen, aged 4, and Alice, aged 2. Their daughter Elizabeth was born later that year and was baptized on 2 Jul 1820, with sponsors Joseph Orrell and Ellen Smith. She was followed by William, who was baptized on 12 Dec 1821, with sponsors Robert Caton and Ann Smith; then Agnes, who was baptized on 1 Jan 1823, with sponsors Richard and Margaret Smith. John and Margaret's next child did not survive infancy.

Robert ORRELL:

Robert Orell (sic) was baptized on 17 Mar 1825 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors William and Agnes Smith. He was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 6 Apr 1825 but his given name was not recorded in the burial transcript. Although his age was recorded simply as "infant", he would have been about 3 weeks old.

John and Margaret's tenth known child was John Jr, who was baptized on 5 Nov 1826, with sponsors Thomas and Agnes Blackburn, followed by another son the called Robert, who was baptized on 27 Aug 1829 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors John and Elizabeth Wilson. It appears that this second child called Robert also died early, but he was not buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery.

The 1832 Preston electoral rolls list John Orrell, a watchmaker, with a house and shop at 28 (and 30) Friargate, but by 1841 they had moved to Lune Street, Preston, where another of their sons died.

John ORRELL Jr:

John Orrell Jr, who, as mentioned above, was baptized on 5 Nov 1826, died on 26 Feb 1841 and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 1 Mar 1841, aged 14 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...Yesterday week, aged 14 years, John, the only son of Mr. Orrell, watchmaker, of this town."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 6 Mar 1841

At the time of the 1841 census John Orrell, a watchmaker, aged c. 60, was living in Lune Street, Preston with Margaret, aged c. 55; and two children, Ellen, aged c. 20; and Elizabeth, aged c. 15. They were all listed as born in Lancashire, but Elizabeth's age is off by a few years, even taking into account the rounding down of ages in 1841. Her age was still being recorded incorrectly when she died seven years later.

Elizabeth ORRELL:

Elizabeth Orrell was baptized on 2 Jul 1820, so would have been 28 years old when she died on 11 Jul 1848. Her age in the burial transcript was recorded as 23 years, the civil death index was recorded it as 22 years, and the death notice published in the newspaper made her even younger, at 20 years. She was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 13 Jul 1848.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Tuesday last, after a long and painful sickness, borne with Christian fortitude, Elizabeth, youngest daughter of Mr. John Orrell, watchmaker, aged 20 years."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 15 Jul 1848

If the death notice is correct about Elizabeth being John and Margaret's youngest daughter it would mean that their daughter Alice died before Elizabeth, but she was not buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery and I can find no other record of her burial. John Orrell died a year after his daughter.

John ORRELL Sr:

John Orrell Sr, who was born in about 1777, died in Preston on 23 Oct 1849, and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery a few days later. The burial transcript does not record the exact date.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Tuesday last, much and deservedly respected by his family and friends, Mr. John Orrell, watchmaker, Lune-street, aged 72."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 27 Oct 1849

On the night of the 1851 census Margaret Orrell, widow, an annuitant, aged 56, was living at 3 St Ignatius Square, Preston with her unmarried daughters Ann, a milliner, aged 26; and Ellen, a milliner, aged 24. Also staying with them was an unmarried lodger, John Bransby Scarle, a solicitor acting as clerk, aged 32. Margaret was listed as born in Kirkham, Ann and Ellen were born in Preston, and the lodger was born in Lowestoft, Suffolk.

With the exception of everyone getting older, and a change of address, not much had changed by 1861, when Margaret Orrell, a widow, aged 56, was living at 12 Frenchwood Street, Preston with her two unmarried daughters, Ann, a milliner, aged 32; and Ellen, a milliner, aged 30. The 1861 census was taken on 7 April, and Margaret died 44 days later, on 21 May 1861. St Wilfrid's Cemetery had been closed by public order seven years earlier, and I have been unable to locate her burial record.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Tuesday last, in Frenchwood-street, much respected, Margaret, relict of the late Mr. John Orrell, watch maker, of this town, aged 68."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 25 May 1861

Note: John and Margaret's eldest daughter Mary married John Wilson at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 30 Apr 1838. Marriage Announcement: "MARRIAGES...On Monday last, at the Catholic Chapel of St Wilfrid, by Rev. G. Connell, Mr. John Wilson, linen draper, to Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. Orrell, watchmaker, all of this town." Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 5 May 1838

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of Elizabeth OSBALDESTON:

Elizabeth Osbaldeston was the daughter of Bernard and Ann Osbaldeston, and was born near Brindle in about 1816. By 1840 she had relocated to Preston, where her daughter was born.

Ann OSBALDESTON:

Ann Osbaldeston was born on 11 Jan 1840, and was baptised at St Ignatius Catholic Church in Preston on 16 Jan 1840, with sponsors John Bradley and Mary Clarkson. Ann died in infancy and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 28 Feb 1841, aged 1 year. Her address at the time of burial was 28 Singleton Row.

On the night of the 1841 census Elizabeth Hosbeldeston (sic), a cotton weaver, aged c. 20, was living in Singleton Row with her sister Alice, aged c. 15. They appear to have been lodging with the family of Joseph and Elizabeth Wilcock, and they were all listed as having been born in Lancashire.

The following year Elizabeth's sister married Thomas Butler on 3 Dec 1842 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, and when Elizabeth gave birth to a son in 1846 she made her sister Alice his Godmother. James Osbaldiston (sic) was born on 3 Mar 1846 and was baptized on 8 Mar 1846 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. The baptism register recorded that he was the son of Elizabeth Osbaldiston, and the sponsors were John Dunnygan and Alice Butler.

At the time of the 1851 census Elizabeth Osboldeston (sic), a power loom cotton weaver, aged 38, was lodging at 19 Sedgwick Street, Preston with her 5 year old son James, a scholar. Elizabeth was listed as born in Brindle and James was born in Preston. They were lodging in the home of Elizabeth Wilcock and family, the same family that Elizabeth was lodging with ten years earlier. She died the following year.

Elizabeth OSBALDESTON:

Elizabeth Osbaldeston died on 4 Sep 1852, and was buried the same day in St Wilfrid's Cemetery, aged 36 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Saturday last,...Elizabeth Osbaldeston, weaver, James-street, aged 36."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 11 Sep 1852

Note 1: It is unclear what happened to James Osbaldeston after the death of his mother, but some researchers believe that he married, had a family, and was tragically killed in a mining accident on 7 Nov 1883. He was apparently buried in an unmarked grave in Accrington Cemetery on 10 Nov 1883.

Note 2: When Ann Osbaldeston's birth was registered her surname was spelled Hosbeleston, with her mother's surname Hosbeldeston. When she died in 1841 her surname was spelled Osbeldeston. When James Osbaldeston's birth was registered his surname and mother's maiden name were spelled Osbeldeston, and when Elizabeth died in 1852 her surname was spelled correctly, Osbaldeston.

Note 3: Elizabeth may have had another child.

Alice OSBALDESTON:

The birth of an Alice Hosbaldeston (sic) was registered in the last quarter of 1842, with the mother's maiden name Hosbaldeston. This child also died in infancy and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 10 Jun 1846. The burial transcript records her age as 4 years, but when her death was registered, under the name Alice Osbeldeston, her age was recorded as 3 years. I have not been able to locate her baptism record.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Joseph OSBALDESTON:

Joseph Osbaldeston was baptized on 10 Jul 1831 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. He was the son of James and Sarah Osbaldeston, and the sponsors were James Topping and Elizabeth Houghton.

James Osbaldeston, a bachelor, and Sarah Houghton, a spinster, were married on 9 Oct 1830 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Thomas Clark, Curate, and the witnesses were Thomas Sharp and Esther Gregson. The bride and Esther Gregson signed the marriage register with an X.

The 1832 Preston electoral rolls list James Osbaldestone (sic), a carder, living at 28 High Street, Preston, and the following year James and Sarah had another son they called Joseph, who was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 24 Feb 1833, with sponsors James Ribchester and Elizabeth Hoghton. He was followed by Thomas, who was born on 21 Dec 1834 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on Christmas Day 1833, with sponsors William and Mary Osbaldeston. Some time after Thomas' birth the family left Preston and moved to Chorley, and baptized their next five children at St Gregory's Catholic Church, Weld Bank. Their son John was baptized on 2 May 1838, with sponsors Alexander and Mary Latus. He was followed by Edward, who was born and baptized on 3 May 1840, with sponsors James and Ann Cross.

At some point before 1841 James and Sarah lost their son Thomas, and on the night of the 1841 census James Osbaldeston, a cotton carder, aged 32, was living in Preston Street, Chorley with Sarah, aged c. 30, and three children, Joseph, aged 8; John, aged 3; and Edward, aged 1. Also staying with them, presumably as lodgers, were three railway labourers, William Crosby, aged c. 25; Peter Crosby, aged c. 20; James Lees, aged c. 20. James and Sarah and their children were listed as born in Lancashire. William and Peter Crosby were born in Scotland, and James Lees was born in Lancashire.

The family continued to grow, with the addition of James, who was born on 25 Jul 1842, and was baptized on 31 Jul 1842, with sponsors Richard Barton and Elizabeth Turner; then Peter, who was born on 4 Nov 1844 and was baptized on 10 Nov 1844, with sponsors Barnabas Jackson and Mary Parkinson; then another son they called Thomas, who was born on 1 Dec 1846 and was baptized on 11 Dec 1846, with sponsors Mary Cross and Thomas Cook. This son also died in infancy, on 17 Dec 1847, and was buried in the churchyard at St Gregory's Church on 19 Dec 1847, aged 1 year.

After Thomas' death James and Sarah were on the move again, this time to Bolton, where their daughter Ellen was born 28 Mar 1849. She was baptized on 1 Apr 1849 at St Peter and St Paul Catholic Church in Bolton, with sponsors James Ashton and Mary Cross. James and Sarah didn't stay in Bolton long and by 1850 they were living in Adlington, where their sons John and James died within days of each other in 1850. John died on 5 Sep 1850 and was buried three days later, aged 12 years. James died on 9 Sep 1850 and was buried on 12 Sep 1850, aged 8 years. Both boys were buried in the churchyard at St Gregory's Church, where their younger brother Thomas had been buried three years earlier.

At the time of the 1851 census James Osbaldeston, a cotton carder, aged 42, was living in Lower Lane, Adlington, near Chorley, with Sarah, aged 40, and four children, Joseph, a cotton grinder, aged 18; Edward, a cotton creeler, aged 10; Peter, a scholar, aged 6; and Ellen, aged 2. James, Sarah and Joseph were born in Preston, Edward and Peter were born in Chorley, and Ellen was born in Bolton. Later that year their daughter Sarah Ann was born in Adlington, but the family were soon on the move again, returning to Preston, where their son James was born on 9 Oct 1853. He was baptized on 16 Oct 1853 at St Ignatius Catholic Church, with sponsors John and Mary Osbaldeston. He was followed by William, who was born on 8 Sep 1856 and was baptized the next day at St Augustine's Catholic Church in Preston, with sponsors James and Mary Wilson.

On the night of the 1861 census James Osbaldeston, a cotton carder, aged 52, was living at 3 Gorst Street with Sarah, a housekeeper, aged 50, and six children, Joseph, a cotton carder, aged 28; Peter, a mechanic, aged 16; Ellen, aged 12; Sarah Ann, aged 9; James, aged 7; and William, aged 4. The three youngest children were scholars.

James Osbaldeston Sr, of 40 Peel Street East, died on 21 Dec 1869 and was buried on Christmas Day 1869 in a public grave, J-696, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 60 years.

James and Sarah's daughter Ellen married Thomas Rigby in Preston in 1871 and at the time of the 1881 census Sarah Osbaldeston, widow, a housekeeper, aged 70, and her unmarried daughter Sarah A., a cotton frame tenter, aged 29, were lodging with Sarah's daughter Ellen, Ellen's husband Thomas Rigby, and their four children, at 40 Peel Street East, Preston.

Sarah (Houghton) Osbaldeston died on 27 Sep 1890, and was buried on 1 Oct 1890 in a private grave, D-536, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 80 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...PRESTON...Burials since our last,...Sarah Osbaldeston, Peel-street South, 89."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 4 Oct 1890

Headstone Inscription:

'...of James Osbaldeston, who died Dec 21, 1869, aged 60 years. Also for Sarah, wife of the above, who died Sep 27, 1890, aged 80 years. Also Sarah Ann Osbaldeston, daughter of the above, who died Aug. 13th 1926, aged 73 years. Also for Ellen Rigby, daughter of the above, who died Oct. 8th 1935, aged 86 years. R.I.P.'

Note: Although listed on the headstone, James was actually buried in a separate public grave. The headstone inscription is a partial inscription as the first sentence is difficult to read. It appears to be 'Pray for the repose of the soul..'.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of John and Ann OSBALDESTON:

The earliest record I can find of John and Ann Osbaldeston and their family is the 1810 Catholic census of Preston when John Olbendestion (sic), F (father), was living in High Street, with Ann, M (mother), and Bellow, aged 13; Betty, aged 9; John, aged 7; Joseph, aged 4; William, aged 3; and James, aged 1. Most of these children were born during the period for which the St Wilfrid's registers are missing (1803 - 1812) with the exception of Isabella, who was baptized Isabella Osbaldiston (sic) on 26 Aug 1797 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. Strangely, there were no sponsors listed. Isabella is almost certainly the "Bellow" listed in 1810. Bellow was probably meant to be Bella, short for Isabella.

Four years after the census was taken John and Ann's son Joseph died. As St Wilfrid's Cemetery did not yet exist, he was buried in the churchyard of St John's Parish Church in Preston on 21 Sep 1814, aged 9 years. The burial register records the fact that he was a Papist (Catholic). Due to the missing registers it is impossible to know how many children John and Ann may have had during that period, but the first child born after that period was Peter, who was baptized on 9 May 1813 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors John Proctor and Mary Osbaldeston. He was followed by Mary, who was baptized on 24 Nov 1816 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors John Dawson and Alice Osbaldeston.

At the time of the 1820 Catholic census John Osbaldeston, aged 51, was living at 21 Snow Hill with Ann, aged 48, William, aged 12, James, aged 11, Peter, aged 7, and Mary, aged 3. They were still living in Snow Hill when their son died seven years later.

Peter OSBALDESTON:

As mentioned above, Peter Osbaldeston was baptized on 9 May 1813 and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery in Mar 1827, aged 16 years. The burial transcript records his age as 14 years, and does not record the exact date of his burial. The next record I can find of this family was the death of John Sr.

John OSBALDESTON Sr:

John Osbaldeston, of York Street, Preston, who was born in about 1768, was buried on 9 Jan 1840, aged 71 years.

On the night of the 1841 census Ann Osbaldeston, aged 69, was living in York Street with Mary, a cotton weaver, aged 24. Also staying with them was Margaret Mason, aged c. 45; and Elizabeth Mason, aged c. 15. They were all listed as born in Lancashire.

Ann Osbaldeston survived her husband by almost exactly ten years and died on 5 Jan 1850. At the time of her death she was living in Oak Street, Preston, a short walk from St Augustine's Catholic Church, and she was probably buried there. However, the burial register for that period appears to be missing.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...on Saturday last, Ann Osbaldeston, Oak-street, aged 78;"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 12 Jan 1850

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Matthew OSBALDESTON:

Matthew Osbaldeston was born on 13 Oct 1836, and was baptized on 16 Oct 1836 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. He was the son of George and Catherine Osbaldeston, and the sponsors were John Rigley and Mary Osbaldeston.

George Osbaldeston, a widower, and Catherine Goodear, a widow, both of Preston, were married on 24 Aug 1822 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Matthew Mark, Curate, and the witnesses were John Hathersall and Jane Parker. The bride, groom and both witnesses signed the register with an X.

George and Catherine set up home in Preston and baptized their children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, beginning with Thomas, who was baptized on 21 Dec 1823, with sponsors Robert Lever and Jane Parker. He was followed by Elizabeth, who was baptized Elizabeth Osbaldiston (sic) on 10 Aug 1826, with sponsors Henry Comaleach and Ann Parker; then Catherine, who was baptized on 24 Jan 1830, with sponsors James Osbaldeston and Deborah Shepherd.

The 1832 Preston electoral rolls list George Osbaldeston, a plasterer, living at 5 Park Street, and the following year his son Peter was born. He was baptized on 15 Sep 1833, with sponsors John Hothersall and Ann Edwards. Their fifth and last child was the above mentioned Matthew, who died in infancy and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 1 Mar 1837, aged 4 months.

At the time of the 1841 census George Osbeldeston (sic), a journeyman plasterer, aged c. 50, was living in Tank Row, Preston with Catherine, aged c. 45, and four children, Thomas, a cotton piecer, aged c. 15; Elizabeth, a cotton piecer, aged 13; Catherine, aged 11; and Peter, aged 7. Also staying with them was Catherine's son Robert Goodier, aged c. 15. They were all listed as born in Lancashire.

Peter Osbaldeston, of Green Street, Preston, died young and was buried on 5 May 1844 in the churchyard at St Ignatius Catholic Church in Preston, aged 10 years. On the night of the 1851 census George Osbaldeston, a plasterer, aged 60, was living at 74 Atkinson Street, Preston with his wife Catherine, aged 59, and three children, Thomas, a plasterer, aged 36; Elizabeth, a power loom weaver, aged 24; and Catherine, a power loom weaver, aged 21. Also staying with them was their granddaughter Jane, aged 9 months. Jane was the child of their daughter Elizabeth, and was born on 6 Jun 1850, and baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 9 Jun 1850, with sponsors William Rigby and Ann Hothersall. They were all listed as born in Preston.

George and Catherine's granddaughter Jane died the year after the census and was buried on 23 Feb 1852 in the churchyard at St Ignatius Catholic Church, aged 20 months. Their daughter Catherine died a few months later and was buried in the same churchyard on 30 Jun 1852, aged 22 years. Their burial entries record their address as Atkinson Street, Preston.

It's reasonable to believe that George's work as a plasterer might sometimes take him away from home, and on the night of the 1861 census Catherine Osbaldeston, a housekeeper, aged 69, was living at 13 Appleton Row. Staying with her was a lodger, Ann Shaw, a cotton weaver, aged 31, and her two children, James, aged 6; and Thomas, aged 4. Both ladies were listed as being married, but their husbands were not home on the night of the census.

George Osbaldeston, of Murray Street, was buried on 21 Mar 1865 in a public grave, H-148, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 71 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...Since our last:...George Osbaldeston, Murray-street, aged 71;"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 25 Mar 1865

Catherine seems to have somehow avoided the census taker in 1871, but by the time of the 1881 census she was a winder, aged 89, an inmate at the Preston Workhouse in Fulwood. She died there the following year and was buried on 14 Jun 1881 in a private grave, B-730, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 89 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...Since our last:...Catherine Osbaldestone (sic), Workhouse, 89;"

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 18 Jun 1881

Note 1: George Osbaldeston was baptized on 13 Nov 1792 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. He was the son of Joseph and Ann Osbaldeston and the sponsors were John Osbaldeston and Marguerite Brown. He first married Alice Harrison on 22 Apr 1811 at St John's Parish Church in Preston, and they baptized three children at St Wilfrid's Chapel: John, baptized on 10 Jan 1813; another son called John, baptized on 12 Jun 1814, and Joseph, baptized on 15 Mar 1818. The first son called John may be the child that was buried in the churchyard at St John's Parish Church on 18 Apr 1813, a papist (Catholic), although that child was said to have been 1 year old.

Note 2: Catherine Jarret married John Goodear on 31 Jan 1816 at St John's Parish Church, and they baptized two children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, William, baptized on 7 Jul 1816; and Ann, baptized on 27 Sep 1818. John Goodear died in 1819, and is almost certainly the John Goodear who was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 7 Dec 1819, although the burial transcript does not record his age or abode. After John's death Catherine had another child, Robert Goodear, who was baptized on 3 Jun 1821.

Note 3: The name Goodear has many variations, including Goodier and Goodyear.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of Michael and Ann "Nancy" OWEN:

It is difficult to be certain, but Michael and Ann Owen may have been the couple who were married in Manchester in 1793. Michael Owens (sic), a weaver, and Ann Houghton, a widow, both of Manchester, were married on 23 Jun 1793 at the Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys and St George - better known today as Manchester Cathedral. They were married after Banns by John Griffith, and had only one witness, John Harrison.

Michael and Ann Owen settled in Preston and baptized their children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, the first recorded baptism being Thomas Owens (sic), who was baptized on 10 Jul 1796, with sponsors Lawrence Cottam and Ann Wilding. He died aged 3 years and was buried in the churchyard at St John's Parish Church in Preston on 4 Mar 1800. Their next child was John, who was baptized on 3 Jun 1798, with sponsors William Parker and Elizabeth Flanigan. He died before his second birthday and was buried in the churchyard at St John's Parish Church on 12 Mar 1800, just eight days after his brother Thomas.

Michael and Ann's third known child was Michael Owens (sic), who was baptized on 3 Aug 1800, with sponsors James Gradwell and Elizabeth Wildin (sic). Due to the fact that the St Wilfrid's registers covering the period 1803 to 1812 are missing, I cannot give the baptism dates of their children born during that period, but we do know that they had William in about 1805, Catherine in about 1807, and James in about 1808. At the time of the 1810 Catholic census of Preston Michael Owen, F (father), was living in Old Rose Street, Preston with Nancy, M (mother), and four children, Michael, aged 10; William, aged 7; Kitty, aged 4; and James, aged 2. Some time after the census was taken they had another son they called Thomas, born in about 1810. Michael and Ann's eighth known child was Ann, who was was baptized on 3 Oct 1813 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, with sponsors Francis Parkinson and Helen Siddle.

At the time of the 1820 Catholic census of Preston 1820 Michael Owen, aged 60, was living at 15 Kirkham Street with Ann, aged 54, Michael, aged 19, William, aged 15, Catherine, aged 13, James, aged 12, Thomas, aged 10, and Ann, aged 6. Michael Jr was married the following year.

Michael Owen, a bachelor, and Mary Hayes, a spinster, were married on 25 Aug 1821 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by Matthew Mark, Curate, and the witnesses were James Hall and John Banister. The bride, groom and James Hall signed the marriage register with an X. Michael and Mary also had a Catholic ceremony on the same day at St Wilfrid's Chapel, witnessed by James Hall and Elizabeth Houghton.

Michael and Mary baptized four children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, beginning with William, who was baptized on 23 Dec 1821, with sponsors James Hall and Elizabeth Birchall. Their second child did not survive infancy.

John OWEN:

John Owen was baptized on 18 Apr 1824 at St Wilfrid's Chapel. He was the son of Michael and Mary Owen, and the sponsors were Nicholas Mullen and Catherine Owen. He was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 25 Mar 1830, aged about 5 years, although the burial transcript records his age simply as "infant".

Michael and Mary's third child was Frederick, who was baptized on 20 Aug 1826, with sponsors William and Catherine Owen; and lastly, Christopher Owens (sic), who was baptized on 4 Jan 1829, with sponsors Thomas and Catherine Owens. Christopher was only about 4 years old when his father died.

Michael OWEN Jr:

Michael Owen Jr, who as mentioned above was baptized Michael Owens on 3 Aug 1800, died in January 1833 and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 24 Jan 1833, aged 32 years. His father joined him two years later.

Michael OWEN Sr:

Michael Owen Sr, who was born in about 1759, died aged 76 years, and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 11 Nov 1835. His address at the time of his death was 18 Back Kirkham Street, the same address recorded when his wife died five years later.

Ann "Nancy" OWEN:

Nancy Owen, who was born in about 1767, died aged 72 years and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 28 Feb 1840.

After the death of her husband in 1833, Mary Owen had two, possibly three further children. A Henry Owen, son of Mary Owen, was born on 15 Sep 1836 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 25 Sep 1836. The baptism transcript records his father's name as William Preston. Mary apparently had another child, a daughter called Ann, who was born in about 1839 but was not baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel and whose birth does not appear to have been registered. Lastly there was Hannah, who was born on 15 Feb 1841 and was baptized on 18 Mar 1841 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, no father's name was recorded, and the only sponsor was Helen Leeming.

On the night of the 1841 census Mary Owen, a drawing tenter, aged c. 35, was living in Heatley Street, Preston with four children, Frederick, a cotton tenter, aged 14; Christopher, a cotton factory worker, aged 13; Ann, aged 1; and Hannah, aged 4 (4 months). They were all listed as born in Lancashire. After this date Mary disappears from the records, unless she was the Mary Owen who died on 13 May 1845, and was buried the following day in the churchyard at St Ignatius Catholic Church in Preston, aged 43 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Tuesday last,...Mary Owen, House of Recovery, aged 43."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 17 May 1845

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of James and Mary OWEN:

James Owen of the township of Freckleton in the Parish of Kirkham, and Mary Hornby of the Parish of Poulton, were married on 16 Aug 1830 at St Michael's Parish Church in Kirkham. They were married after Banns by James Radcliffe, Curate, and the witnesses were Edward Eccles and Mary Swarbreck. The bride, groom and Mary Swarbreck signed the register with an X. Although Mary's marital status wasn't recorded in the marriage register, when she married James Owen she was a widow, the former Mary Harrison, widow of Robert Hornby. Robert Hornby and Mary Harrison were married on 11 Jul 1820 at St Chad's Parish Church in Poulton-le-Fylde and had at least one son, Thomas Hornby, who was baptized at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Poulton-le-Fylde on 20 Nov 1820. Before Mary married Robert Hornby she had two daughters, Jane and Elizabeth, who were living with Mary and James at the time of their deaths. Their burial information is listed under Harrison.

After marrying in Kirkham, James and Mary settled in Preston, where their first child died in infancy.

Joseph OWEN:

Joseph Owens (sic) was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 5 Jun 1831, with sponsors John Clarkson and Mary Swarbrick. He was buried three months later, on 20 Sep 1831, in St Wilfrid's Cemetery.

James and Mary's second child was Margaret, who was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 12 Aug 1832, with sponsors John Baines and Ann Clarkson. Their third child is a bit of a mystery. Mary Owens (sic) was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 3 Nov 1833, with sponsors John Dewhurst and Agnes Nixon. It would appear that this child died in infancy as James and Mary called another daughter Mary a few years later, but I can find no record of her death or burial. Adding to the confusion, James and Mary had a daughter Jane who was born in about 1834, but I can find no record of her baptism. As strange as it may sound, Mary and Jane might have actually been one and the same person. If Jane was the child baptized on 3 Nov 1833 but her name was incorrectly entered into the baptism register as Mary, it would explain why there is no record of Mary's burial or Jane's baptism.

James and Mary's next child was William, who was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 7 Jun 1836, with sponsors John and Alice Ribchester; and he was followed by James Owens (sic), who was born on 26 Nov 1837, and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 3 Dec 1837, with sponsors John Rigby and Elizabeth Harrison. James and Mary's last child was Mary, who was born on 15 Aug 1839 and was baptized the same day at St Ignatius Catholic Church, with sponsors Richard Robinson and Elizabeth Bamber. Her surname was originally written in the baptism register as Holden, but this was crossed out and replaced with Owen.

At the time of the 1841 census James Owen (spelled Howin in the census), an agricultural labourer, aged c. 35, was living in Whalleys Cottages, Croft Street, Preston with his wife Mary, a shopkeeper, aged c. 35, and five of their children, Margaret, aged 9; Jane, aged 8; William, aged 5; James, aged 4, and Mary, aged 2. Also staying with them was Mary's daughter Betty Harrison, a linen preparer, aged c. 20. They were all listed as born in Lancashire. Elizabeth "Betty" Harrison died the following year and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 11 Dec 1842, aged 22 years. Her mother was buried exactly seven days later.

Mrs Mary OWEN:

Mary (Harrison) Hornby-Owen, who was born in about 1801, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 18 Dec 1842, aged 41 years.

About four months after Mary's death, James remarried. James Owen, a widower, married Jane Heskin, a widow, the daughter of Thomas and Ellen Eccleston, on 26 Apr 1843 at St Wilfrid's Chapel, witnessed by John Usher and Ruth Eccleston. Later that year his daughter died.

Miss Mary OWEN:

Mary Owen, who was born in 1839, died aged 3 years and was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 13 Aug 1843.

James and Jane's first child together was Joseph, who was born on 6 May 1844, and was baptized Joseph Howell (sic) at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 12 May 1844, with sponsors John Sergeant and Mary Ann Booth. Their second child was Robert, who was born on 7 Apr 1846, and was baptized Robert Holden (sic) at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 12 Apr 1846, with sponsors Thomas Askaim and Ellen Eccleston. A few months after their second son's birth, their first son died.

Joseph OWEN:

Joseph Owen, who was born in 1844, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 6 Sep 1846, aged 2 years. The following year James and Jane lost their second child.

Robert OWEN:

Robert Owen, who was born in 1846, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 8 Jun 1847, aged 14 months.

On the night of the 1851 census James Owen, a farm labourer, aged 48, was living at 23 Pitt Street, Preston with his wife Jane, a housekeeper, aged 48, and four children, Mar. (Margaret), a flax spinner, aged 18; Jane, a cotton weaver, aged 17; William, an errand boy, aged 14; and James, a scholar, aged 13. Also staying with them was their grandson, Robert Smith, a scholar, aged 3. James Sr was listed as born in Ashton-on-Ribble and the rest of the household were born in Preston. James' son William died the following year.

William OWEN:

William Owen, who was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 7 Jun 1836, died on 12 Dec 1852 and was buried three days later in St Wilfrid's Cemetery, aged 16 years.

Death Notice:

"DEATHS...On Sunday last,..William Owen, labourer, Wharf-street, aged 16."

Published in the Preston Chronicle, Sat., 18 Dec 1852

At the time of the 1861 census James Owen, a coal yard labourer, aged 58, was living in Wharf Street, Preston with Jane, aged 58, and his daughter Jane, a cotton weaver, aged 26. Also staying with them were two boarders, Jane's unmarried niece Ellen Eccleston, a cotton weaver, aged 33; and John Ward, widower, a coal yard labourer, aged 49. James was listed as born in Alston, John Ward was born in Barton, and the rest of the household were born in Preston.

On the night of the 1871 census James Owen, a labourer in a coal yard, aged 68, was living in a cottage in the coal yard, in Wharf Street, Preston, with his wife Jane, aged 68, and his unmarried daughter Jane, aged 37. Also staying with them was their grandson, William Bond, a scholar, aged 11; and a lodger, John Ward, a carter in a coal yard, aged 59.

Jane (Eccleston) Heskin-Owen, of Wharf Street, died aged 70 years and was buried on 22 Nov 1872 in a public grave, D-150, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery. Her husband survived her by a little less than 15 months. James Owen, of 13 Robinson Street, was buried on 16 Feb 1874 in a public grave, N-439, in a Catholic section of Preston Cemetery, aged 71 years.

Note: Jane Heskin was the widow of Robert Heskin, who was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 29 Oct 1835, aged 33 years. Their son John Heskin, aged 3, was buried later that same year.

FURTHER INFORMATION:

The Family of William and Elizabeth OWEN:

William Owen, a bachelor, and Elizabeth Simpson, a spinster, both of Preston, were married on 12 May 1828 at St John's Parish Church in Preston. They were married after Banns by P. Fraiser, Curate, and the witnesses were William Chaloner and Catherine Owen. The two ladies signed the marriage register with an X. They also had a Catholic marriage ceremony at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 25 May 1828, with the same witnesses.

William and Elizabeth baptized four children at St Wilfrid's Chapel, beginning with Marianne, who was baptized on 19 Apr 1829, with sponsors Thomas Owen and Ann Suddel. She apprently died in infancy but I have been unable to locate any record of her burial. William and Elizabeth's scond child was Mary, who was baptized on 27 Feb 1831, with sponsors Thomas Owen and Grace Smith.

The 1832 Preston electoral rolls list William Owen, a carder, living at 17 Bolton Street, Moss. Their third child was born the following year. William Owen was baptized William Owens on 3 Feb 1833, with sponsors Thomas Shelliker and Mary Simpson. William Owen Sr died fifteen months later.

William OWEN:

William Owen, of North Road, who was born in about 1803, was buried in St Wilfrid's Cemetery on 22 May 1834, aged 30 years.

Although she may not have known it at the time, Elizabeth was pregnant at the time of her husband's death and their fourth child was born eight months later. Thomas James Owen was born on 27 Jan 1835 and was baptized at St Wilfrid's Chapel on 1 Feb 1835, with sponsors Thomas Owen and Elizabeth Mackarel.

Elizabeth (Simpson) Owen was remarried in 1837 to Thomas Green.