Guestbook


MINERS BANNER FUND	Mining Heritage Project2006	HARBOUR NEWS & EVENTS


Guestbook 2008
The main purpose of this Guestbook is to allow Seaham Harbour folk around the world to keep in touch, to find each other, to explore their roots and to share cherished recollections. Seaham Harbour Online will not knowingly carry on its web pages any material which we consider to be politically or socially offensive or of a xenophobic, fascist or paediaphiliac nature. Personal attacks which may be considered to be potentially libellous are not allowed.If you have a criticism it should be supported by facts and is only valid if you identify yourself and your real email address. This is no different from what local or national newspapers would expect. We receive lots of requests to advertise other sites on the Guestbook. Our policy is not to allow advertisements here.

Thank you for visiting our pages.
We would be delighted if you would Add to our Guestbook.

Please start your comments with the word "jupiter". This will help us control the junk messages we receive.

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Hi Paul, if you Google "Durham Mining Museum" you will get a list of mining occupations along with lots of facts about the mining industry in Durham. John Burgess originated from Scotland, place unknown. Cheers for now, Raymond Thompson
Raymond Thompson
Seaham, - Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 15:46:05 (PDT)

. Hi Ed re " hi anybody know the copeland or questa familys from seaham " terry questa cardiff, - Monday, May 05, 2008 at 15:59:17 M.Questa 4 Salcombe Gdns. Dalton le Dale. Cheers for now, Raymond Thompson
Raymond Thompson
- Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 15:44:36 (PDT)

Paul Martin. Go to the Durham Records Site. You will find a Burgess born Boston, Staffs to name a few.The site has parish records and all census, starting 1841 to 1901.
Susan
Canada - Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 15:43:37 (PDT)

Paul Martin. Found at Durham Mining site. Baker, Henry, 28 Mar 1877, aged 35, Keeker, severely crushed by waggon and a portion of the heap erections, too little room to pass [Sunderland Daily Echo reports: accident - 02 Apr 1877 pg 3 col 4]
susan
- Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 15:42:39 (PDT)

Researching family tree, I am aware that Henry BAKER (b.1814/15?)died on 28th March 1877 as a result of an accident at No 2 pit, Seaham Colliery. Does anyone know if it is possible to access records on this 'accident'? Also in 1851 census he was living at the 'Gas works?'. Does anyone have information as to where this was (& why it would be occupied)?
paul martin
Surrey, - Monday, May 05, 2008 at 16:03:09 (PDT)

Researching my family history, I have come across a newspaper article on the sudden death of John Burgess (d.21.1.1899). His employment is given as Keeker at Seaham Colliery No 1 pit. Can anyone explain this term for me? He also had ten children living in Seaham at the time of his death. Does anyone have any further info on were he originated from?
paul martin
Surrey, - Monday, May 05, 2008 at 16:01:47 (PDT)

Dear William Kirby. Thank you so much for the wonderful family tree and other information you have sent me. I do not have as much to send and I have been mainly tracing the Watson line but will reply personally in a few days. Thanks again Pat
Pat
Eastbourne, - Monday, May 05, 2008 at 16:00:54 (PDT)

I stayed overnight at The Harbour View Hotel, formerly The Lord Seaham, last year. It is basic but clean and the breakfast was very good. It was the first time that I been in the place since I learned to drink there in the 1950's. Those were the days.
Doug Edwards
- Monday, May 05, 2008 at 16:00:00 (PDT)

hi anybody know the copeland or questa familys from seaham
terry questa
cardiff, - Monday, May 05, 2008 at 15:59:17 (PDT)

FOR WILLIAM KIRBY: Judy C from Alliston, Ontario wants to write to you. Send your email address and we'll pass it on if you wish.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 16:11:51 (PDT)

Hello to L J in Florida, regarding places to stay in Seaham. Murton is just up the road about 7 mins in the car their is a place called the village inn, we stayed for a week, its basic, but it was very reasonable, its bed and breakfast if thats what you are looking for. We had the family room although only 2 of us and had our own shower. I think another one is the Pemberton Arms, couldnt tell you what its like though. I will find out a bit more and let you know L J Regards Maureen
Maureen
- Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 16:06:04 (PDT)

A £100,000 haul of illeagal drugs from Deneside. Well, Denesiders, decent people who have always lived there should help the Law to root the drug dealing scum out of Seaham altogether. I know there is a growing drug culture especially in the big cities where people do'nt know each other and do'nt even talk to each other. But Seaham is different, close knitted, bacically good people. So Get rid of the drug dealers before they have a chance to hand out free samples to your children.
Brian Greenfingers
- Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 16:05:15 (PDT)

Hi all im trying to trace my family history and what jobs my relatives did. Im hoping someone on this page could help me, as its a really great page.Im trying to trace any information, or pictures of either the Bulmer's or the Batey's, i believe both are from seaham. First of all any descendants or friends of Harry Newton Batey, who's my grandad, he used to work in the big pyrex factory in sunderland and i believe he was also in the army but not sure what division. I know he had brothers and sisters but im not sure how many or what mix. Now the other family im trying to trace are the Bulmer's who are my Grans family, i know a bit more information on this 1, my Gran's name is Mary batey, She was the Daughter of a Mary-Ellen Bulmer who died in september 1977, when i was just 4 yrs old, my gran had a sister Norah, and 2 brothers, 1 i believe was in the navy and went down with his ship as it sank but unsure of his name or the year in which it happened, the ot! her brother was called Jim, but unsure as to how old he'll be, my gran moved to Town-End-Farm about 25/26yrs ago maybe more. My aunt norah lives in London now,and my Gran is in her early 80s now, my grandad was 77, but unfortunately he died of cancer last aug/sept PLEASE help if you can, if anyone has any information or pictures of any of my family id really love to hear from you, thankyou all very much,
Sharon Maddison nee tinkler
blairgowrie, - Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 16:04:11 (PDT)

sebastian try the chaple house bed and breakfast in cold heseldon just outside of seaham it is a converted methodist church very nice rooms and not expensive.
ringville
seaham, - Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 15:59:11 (PDT)

Dear William Kirby, I have a marriage certificate for Forence Kirby and John Watson, my Grandfather. Her father's name was John Vickers Kirby, she did not die in childbirth butit was shortly after having her third child. They married at the gospel Hall, Nobles Bank Road on 17/1/1925. All the other names and the fact he married his niece seems to match my info ut there may have been another child born to John and Ellen, Lena may have been illegitimate because she was registered in her mother's maiden name. Please could you send a copy of the Kirby family tree to Paul Prior, Langney Domestics, Langney Road, Eastbourne. It does look as though we may be cousins. look forward to hearing from you. Pat
Pat
Eastbourne, - Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 15:57:17 (PDT)

I was fortunate to visit Seaham 2 years ago and stay with friends. They no longer are there and I would like to come and visit the beach again. I heard of a hotel, I think it was called The Harbor Inn right across from the beach but their email is not working. Does anyone know if they are still in business OR if there are any other moderate accomdations available in town (i.e. NOT Seaham Hall too $$$$$) I appreciate any help you may offer. Thanks!
L.J.
Sebastian, Indian River Florida - Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 14:06:38 (PDT)

FAO Dan Summerbell. Alan Place has told me that Dickey Glover gave you his telephone number. Alan says that you are welcome to call him whenever you like.
Tom Moreland
London, - Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 14:05:13 (PDT)

Dear Pat, Eastbourne. In reply to your last guestbook entry.You state that your grandmother was called Florence. My great uncle, John Vickers Kirby, married his niece, Ellen Hudson on the 14th of June, 1895. They had five children,John Marwood, born 15th July, 1898. Elizabeth 14th January, 1900. Florence, 31st August, 1902. Gladys May, 6th May 1904 and Stanley Vickers, 3rd May,1906.From a cousin of mine I was told that Florence married a Mormon. Apparently she had a child that lived but Florence died in childbirth.I have tried to verify 4this but I can find anything, even on Ancestry.co.In Durham County Archives I found a marriage from St John's church, Seaham Harbour, from July 3, 1937 concerning a Florence May Kirby aged 32 who married a Rowland Richardson Tamblin aged 30.The groom's father was John Tamblin, deceased. The brides father was named as Robert Kirby, deceased. The witnesses names are Robert Kirby, Elizabeth Kirby and M. J. Kirby.I also found a! Florence Elizabeth Kirby , aged 21, who married a Dennis Carver, aged 24 on the 17th of February, 1945, also at St John's. The bride's father is not mentioned and the groom's father is George ? Carver. Although a few of the names match some on my family tree, my extensive research doesn't throw up a Tamblin or a Carver. I hope this will assist you in your research. If you think that anything fits the bill, just get onto the guestbook. As for a family tree, I mentioned it before just give me an address of a local shop or post office and I will foreward a copy there.Happy hunting. Kind regards, William Kirby.
William Kirby
chester-le-street, durham - Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 14:04:17 (PDT)

Thank you to Raymond Thompson who made my day by directing another enquirer to the east durham site. I too lived in Francis Street so finding a photograph of it was wonderful. I even think that I'm in the photo! Thanks again Raymond
John Warburton
Spennithorne, Leyburn, - Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 14:01:58 (PDT)

I was having a look at the Seaham harbour site, and came across the story of Mr W. A place whose father was in the Home Guard in Seaham. My Grandad was in the Home Guard, and I've a few favourite stories that my Grandma told me before she passed away last year. Is there any chance you could put me in touch with Mr Place? My Grandad's name was Wilfred Summerbell - it might ring a bell.
Dan Summerbell
- Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:44:09 (PDT)

Dear William Kirby, Florence Kirby was my grandmother so it seems we might share some family connection. I am just a beginner at family researching and would like to see your family tree but i am not sure how to give you a contact. Thanks Pat
Pat
Eastbourne, - Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:10:22 (PDT)

Well Julia the ex-WRAF lady. We have lost everything that was still going when you lived at Parkside. British owened motor car and motor bike industries. Shipbuilding all gone. Steal making. There is just an I.T. culture now and anything else is just a distant memory. Mind you Julia, coal mine drudgery, what kind of a life was that for any man? I should know, ex miner that I was till I got wise and got out. Good luck to you and yours.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:08:25 (PDT)

Brian Green Fingers is probably correct in suggesting that there are few remaining pupils about who attended Seaham Intermediate School between 1940-1945.I was a pupil at the S.I.S from1838 to 1941.During this period I had the good fortune to be influenced and taught by a number of outstanding teachers.There was Mr.Weatherly,headmaster,Mr.Evans,maths,Mr.Witham,english. Mr.Oliver.geography.Mr. Hastings.history,Mr.Miller,art. Seaham during the 1930s was a great town for youngsters like myself developing.Normaly we played in the streets near our houses however there were other major play areas such as over the beck which ran though Seaham Colliery Park ie opposite the Mill Inn. Dawdon Dene and the bull fields,as well as the valley which ran between the old police station/drillhall and Denehouse Road. Located in this valley was Adam & Eves gardens,a wooden bridge which was good for climbing. The stream ran through to the sea via Bessies Hole. My parents did not allow me to swim off the beach as it was considerd too dangerous however Seaham Harbour swimming club had changing huts in the docks just inside the north pier and I swam off the slope under supervison. Happy days. 1930s Pupil.
edward summerbell
halesowen, west midlands - Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:07:25 (PDT)

Hello Andrea. If you don't make any contact with Roberts descendants as a result of this posting there are a number of Peel families listed in the phonebook for the Seaham and surrounding areas so it might be worth trying that for starters. You gave the year of Roberts birth as 1910. Could it have been as early as 1900? Cheers for now,
Raymond Thompson
Seaham, - Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:03:43 (PDT)

Hello Denver. Unfortunately Frances Street was demolished about 1950. However a public house called 'The Volunteer Arms' is still standing there. There is a good photo of Frances Street available to view on a new site for East Durham. If you put 'east durham then and now' into Google then click on 'Seaham' this will take you a list where you can click on 'Streets' then click on 'various streets' you will find Frances Street on the second page shown as 'ST 10' The large building you can see in mid terrace is The Volunteer Arms. Cheers for now, Raymond Thompson
Raymond Thompson
- Monday, April 14, 2008 at 15:02:20 (PDT)

I have in recent years started tracing my family history. My grandfather William Joseph Duncan was born on the 6th September 1875 in Easington, County of Durham and his birth certificate shows he was born in Francis Street Seaham Harbour. He was the son of James Duncan and Bridget Duncan formerly Stanley. My great grandfather James Duncan was a merchant seaman. My grandfather came to South Africa in about 1899 to fight in the Boer war. He married a boer maiden on the 26 th November 1906. THey had four children three daughters and a son, my father James Henry Duncan born 6th May 1919. If nayone in Seaham Harbour reads this message and can email me a photograph of Francis Street I would be most greatful. My youngest daughter lives in Guildford and my wife and I will be visiting her early next year and will certainly visit Durham and surrounds. We did a trip to Banff Scotland in 2005 in search of family history. I visited the Seaham Harbour website and am looking forward to taking some long hikes along the Seaham shore line. Denver Duncan 09.04.2008
Denver Ingram Duncan
Cape Town, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:43:02 (PDT)

hello, I am looking for living relatives of Henry Bernhard Anderson and Ellen Roxby to help me complete my family tree. Henry Bernhard was born in Heligoland 1856 and was a sailor and a coal miner,he lived in Henry St Seaham 1910 he was married to Ellen Roxby in 1881 She died 1933 Seaham I am stuck in 1910 regarding Henry.Some records say he died in America others in England? Some records say he was interned during 1914? I just don't have actual facts, can anyone help me fill in these gaps? as this family would be my great grandparents. Thankyou Carol
carol
murton seaham, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:41:10 (PDT)

My father William McGauchie from Seaham, sailed from Liverpool to Quedbec, Canada on 19 July 1929. He travelled with Robert Peel also from Seaham and they appear to have worked their passage. Robert was born about 1910. William (Bill) worked at the Tempest Pit so I wondered if that was where he and Robert met. My dad returned home after about 3 years. Did Robert Peel stay there or did he come back to Seaham? Are there any of his family still in the area that could tell me? Thanks. Andrea Lee
Andrea Lee
Warminster, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:40:15 (PDT)

I left Seaham in 1975 when I joined the WRAF but continued to visit upto my going to Barbados to live in 1988. I revisited in 1994 when I returned to England and was shocked to see all three pits gone. I have since heard that the houses in Parkside have been knocked down which was another shock as I was born in 1957 at 36 Fern Crescent.
Julia Howard nee Hogg
Chesterfield, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:39:05 (PDT)

A long shot here but I am still trying to trace any history on my parents/grandparents. Anne Thompson married Brian Kirtley and lived in 6 Grants Crescent until 1973 when they split up. My father continued living there. Grandparents Sarah (Sally) Ann and James Porter lived at 73 Derwent Close until they passed away approx 1988. She was blind and he was deaf - what a lovely couple they were. Any memories/any news...pls drop me a line.
Gavin Cresswell
Toronto - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:37:45 (PDT)

To Pat, Eastbourne. You did not give your surname, Pat, so it makes things a little more difficult. The Hudson's were a well-known Seaham Harbour family. The earlier Hudson's were pilots.The thing is I don't know how far back you have researched.As for the Kirby's, there were two Kirby families-not related.On the 1881 census for Dawdon there is a Thomas Kirby, born at Burman, Essex.His wife was called Ada.They had nine children, Auther, Ellen, Ada, Rose, James, Thomas, John, Joseph and Elizabeth.On the Seaham Harbour Absent Voters' list for 1919,there is a Mark Kirby and Thomas Kirby both from 24 Wynyard Street.Mark was in the R.F.A.and Thomas 76060 H Battalion R.F.A.Also on the Dawdon Colliery Roll of Honour 1914-1918 there is a G.Kirby,Mark Kirby and an M.Kirby mentioned.On the Emmerson side, Uncle Matthias Emmerson was a Willington lad.He must have gotten to know his future wife, Lena,when he enlisted in Seaham for the Great War.I respect your privacy a! nd would not ask for an e-mail or house address.If you have a local Post Office or somewhere I could send you a family tree there if you like.Regards, William Kirby.
William Kirby
Chester le Street, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:36:27 (PDT)

Hi I am looking for info on my relatives from the late 1800's. My Great Great Grandmother Mary Catherine Foster Married Timothy Dyer in St Frances Church Seaham 1875 they had 11 children and lived on Frances St Dawdon in 1901. My Great Great Grandmother Ann Elizer Dyer was born in Seaham in 1867, she married Joseph French in 1895. They had a daughter (My Great Grandmother) Barbara Ellen French also born in seaham, she moved away in the 1920's and Married Robert Murray. I would be greatful to anyone that has any info.
Hazel Murray
Stoney Creek, - Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:34:12 (PDT)

Sorry Rita Mortimer, I did reply to your question about Gordon Jackson but it seems to be still in the system somewhere. The answer to where his grave is, I'm afraid, is negative. I did sugest you look it up at the Registrar of burials. Gorden had never even started school yet when he died. Miss macdougal and Miss Calaher at the High Collery School did not get to teach him. I belive the School sports day silver cup is at Ropery Walk Juniors now. The silver cup was presented to Miss Foxall at the High Collery School by the Captain of H.M.S.Seaham, a Corvet (I think) that suvived WW2. Oh! Nostalga, nostalga.
Brian Greenfingers.
- Wednesday, April 09, 2008 at 14:32:54 (PDT)

Hi Sadie and Ed. Back on February 28 Geoff asked for my e mail address It is ok to give it to him. I have been out in British Columbia and just got back so that is why I am just catching up. FROM ED: Judy can you send Geoff's full name etc and we'll try our best.
Judy C
Alliston, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:14:11 (PDT)

To Carol Harrison, Aunty Irene would love to get in touch! She doesn't have email but does have a mobile number which I don't really want to splash all over the site.
Neil Gleghorn
- Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:08:40 (PDT)

It's a long time since I looked at the Guestbook but now that I have there are a few things I'd like to mention in reply to some entries..To WENDY FITZGERALD who wrote about the Gilmore family a a number of occasions...When I left School I worked at the Co-op Store from where Clary Gilmore ran his mobile butchers shop. He was an ever cheerful member of the staff. To STAN COOPER who wrote in August last year about working at the Store and his friends...I also had a week delivering with a horse and cart from the Mill Bank store. It took an age. Joan Strong lived at the end house in Ambleside Avenue and Sylvia Smith next door I think. Sylvia worked in Store office. To JOHN BRENNAN who wrote from Hong Kong in April last year, I ask ' How does 'The Lambton Worm' sound in Chinese? If you know the answer I have a book you gave me as a birthday present when we both went to Byron Terrace School.'
Victor Brown
louth, lincolnshire - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:07:29 (PDT)

My last posting was pure nostalga. I have been taking a little trip through the history sights for Seaham, they are just as good as it gets. Mind you, you can never catch the full vision of what they are trying to tell you. No one can but tinker around the edges of history because there is so much more and Seaham has a fine history which the generations following the thousands of our redundent miners should digest. I mentioned before in a posting that School-kids were asked about WW2 and they thought it was when the Romans came. Old Ciciro was right when he said: To be ignorant of what occured before you were born, is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life, unless it is woven into the life of our antcestors by the records of history.
Brian Greenfingers
- Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:05:09 (PDT)

To Laraine Robison,I knew your John very well,we drank in Parkside club together and to say that he was a gentle person is an understatement!-He was one of the nicest people I have ever met in my life and everyone was devastated when we found out that he was terminally ill.-We knew him as 'the boot',(or the byut).Your John was as mad as a pan of crabs but never had a bad bone in his body-he is still well thought of and is testament to the saying that "Only the good die young"-God bless you John.
I. C. Parkside Club
Seaham, - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:03:41 (PDT)

I read your message with interest as I have some of those surnames on my family tree. Hudson, Kirby and Emmerson and most of them came from Seaham. I expect it is just coincidence as they seem to be popular names in that area making it difficult to pin down connections. Pat
Pat
Eastbourne, Sussex - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:02:21 (PDT)

Thank you to those who responded to my request for information about the 'acoustic mirror'. Obviously, I'm very sad that it has been demolished. Nevertheless, something good came out of it. During my research, I came across some very interesting sites, many of which included some wonderful photographs. Very nostalgic. I really must try to visit Seaham again some day in order to witness the changes for myself. Vernon Prior
Vernon Prior
Tewantin, Queensland - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 15:00:57 (PDT)

my mother born Jane Knox 1898, daughte of John Knox, lived on Church St, Seaham Harbour, married John Sharpe 1914, widowed, then married Roger Ashcroft,shortly after moved to Glasgow. Are there any remaining descendants there?
gordon
winnepeg, - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 14:58:45 (PDT)

Concerning the Geoff Hudson who has had a couple of entries in the guest book lately.My great aunt,Sarah Jane Kirby married a David Hudson on the 30th of January,1870.They had 11 children,John George,Elizabeth Marwood,Ellen,Sarah Jane,David,Emily Annie, Thomas,Alice,Florence,Edith,and Alfred.I have too many names to mention all of them here, but some of the above spouses names include.Louisa Darnton,Ellen had a daughter, Lena who married a Great War soldier,Matthias Emmerson,Sarah Beatrice Hall Richardson,John Griggs,Albert Edward Field,who was also a Great War soldier.If there is anything there that interests you,Geoff,just reply on the guest book.As both my grand father, Henry Kirby,and my great grandfather,William Kirby were born at Seaham Harbour, I am always on the lookout for any relatives,blood or through marriage,that may still live at Seaham.Regards, William Kirby.
William Kirby
Chester le Street, - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 16:32:45 (PDT)

The Acustic Mirror Site (that was) is by the junction of The Graham Way and Juberlee Ave. Dalton-Le-Dale is on the other side. The map I saw of the area with the site of the Mirror sircled is on andrewgrantham.co.uk
Brian Greenfingers
- Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 16:31:05 (PDT)

Would anyone have any contact details for Irene Wilson (nee Gleghorn). I would love to get back in touch. Carole (Mick's wife)
Carol Harrison
- Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 16:29:57 (PDT)

For the attention of Brian Green Fingers. Hi Brian , I know this is a long shot , but you say you went to the funeral of Gordon Jackson, who drowned in the clay pit in 1948. Any chance you can remember approximately where the grave is? Rita Mortimer Louth
rita s. mortimer
Louth, - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 16:28:55 (PDT)

FAO John Warburton... Have been given some photos from Joyce ( Shaw) Will need an email adress to send them to you or some other point of contact best regards Geoff Hudson
Geoff Hudson
Seaham, - Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:11:02 (PDT)

for Derek Robson,our John was a gentle giant in that he was the most loving ,caring person imaginable.He died in March 2001 at the age of 38.As far as I am aware ,he was never referred to as Mosey.Anyway, who was this person I supposedly dated?.I think you have mistaken me for someone else.I was the original shrinking violet.Anyway,thanks for your bothering to reply.Laraine
Laraine Robison
- Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:10:14 (PDT)

fao Geoff Hudson. Great to hear from you Geoff. Still remember the busking sessions in the classroom at SMS. Thanks for searching for photos. It's much appreciated.
John Warburton
Spennithorne, North Yorkshire - Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:09:05 (PDT)

The Acoustic Mirror which Vernon Prior remembers could be the one which was situated near the top of Deneside in "The Hollow"which was a popular play area for kids in my era (40,s-50,s).I don,t know when it was demolished but it certainly still existed in 1958.
Frank Lovett
Orba, Alicante - Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:07:54 (PDT)

Hello Vernon. Unfortunately the “Seaham Sound Mirror” you mentioned was demolished some time ago and try as I may I can’t find a photo for you but will keep on looking. However, a Sound Mirror built to similar specifications still exists at Namey Hill just north of Carley Hill Cricket Club, Fulwell, Sunderland and is a scheduled monument so hopefully it shouldn’t suffer the fate of the Seaham Mirror. If you put ‘Sunderland Sound Mirror’ into Google it will take you straight to the photograph of the Namey Hill Mirror and many others. I have spoken to Les Hood and Dickie Glover about the Seaham Mirror which they both remember well and they say the Sunderland Mirror looks very much like the Seaham one. Much smaller than some of its big brothers on the South Coast, it was built as part of the Tyne/Tees defensive chain and was in operation for the last two years of the war. I understand that the one you remember was erected on farm land just to the east of Overdene,! Dalton le Dale. The dimensions you mentioned appear to be very close to the ones for the Sunderland Mirror. Affectionately known as “Concrete Lugs” they were a forerunner of Radar and were built on the south and northeast coasts of England between about 1916 and the 1930s. For those of us unfamiliar with the purpose of sound mirrors they were intended to provide early warning of incoming enemy aeroplanes and airships about to attack coastal towns. With the development of faster aircraft the sound mirrors became less useful as an aircraft would be within sight by the time it had been located, and radar finally rendered the mirrors obsolete.
Raymond Thompson
- Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:06:48 (PDT)

FAO Lorna Stokes Hi lorna thanks for getting back. mam is thrilled and would love to speak/meet with you. I remember the car it was a blue mini, mam is looking for her picture right now! Please contact me
Gillian Dawson
- Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:04:38 (PDT)

VERNON THE STRUCTURE WAS IN THE FIELDS BETWEEN DALTON LE DALE AND THE TOP OF DENESIDE A PATH USED TO LEAD FROM BEHIND THE GARAGE TO A STYLE NEXT TO SOME HOUSE IN DALTON LE DALE.
no name
- Friday, March 21, 2008 at 12:03:46 (PDT)

Please note that the Guestbook is intended for the purposes described at the top of the main page. If you wish to conduct more detailed communication with anyone please use email.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:23:53 (PDT)

Hello, I haven't been here for a while as I have been researching the Millington branch of my family for which there is plentiful information. I was previously asking whether anyone had info about the family of Hailes Harrison Wilkinson, particularly in connection his daughter Alice Ethel, my grandma, and her spouse Alfred Richardson, aka Alfredo Venucci, a master confectioner. The story passed down was that Alfredo had taken the surname of a man for whom he ran a shop, and on their marriage certificate (1913) he had named his father as James Richardson, a carpenter. By a stroke of serendipity, I have found out that James Richardson, born 1848, a greengrocer of 28 John Street, Seaham in the 1901 census, had a son James born 1875, who was a carpenter. James snr was the son of James born 1825 in Skipton, Yorkshire, who appeared in Seaham in the 1851 census, having married Ellen, a Seaham lass. The 1848 James married Margaret Defty. There are other indications also that the Richardsons, Wilkinsons, Deftys and Rochesters were all interlinked, so I am sure that these are the Richardsons I have been looking for. Does! anyone recognise the family? I am wondering whether descendents might information about or photos of the Richardsons up to 1915 when Alfredo left the country, in the hope that as my grandpa Alfred/Alfredo worked for them, he might feature on one. Although not blood relatives, the Richardsons gave us our family name through my dad, Hales Alfred, Alice and Alfredo's son, and this is not insignificant in our family history. It would be great to get some info. Cheers,
Carol Weaver
Carlisle, Cumbria - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:07:19 (PDT)

I left Seaham in 1947, at the age of 15, and have rarely been back there. I do know that a lot of changes have taken place since my last visit. Nevertheless, I am hoping someone may be able to help. I remember as a child playing in the vicinity of an 'acoustic mirror' somewhere in the area. It was a concrete structure, about 20 feet high with two supporting sides. The main wall faced roughly East and incorporated a concave reflector, and there was a steel rod some distance in front, with the top of the rod (which originally contained a microphone or other listening device) at the focal point of the reflector. It would probably have been built about the start of WWI. It was, in fact, an early warning device and was used to detect approaching Zeppelins and other aircraft. I really would like to know if it still exists, and its exact location. Thank you in anticipation,
Vernon Prior
Tewantin, Queensland 4565 - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:04:31 (PDT)

FAO JOHN WARBURTON. HAVE TRIED TO SEND YOU A MESSAGE. STILL TRYING TO LOCATE PHOTOS WILL CONTACT YOU WHEN FOUND
Geoff Hudson
Seaham, - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:02:17 (PDT)

Do'se anyone remember the 'SQUATTERS HUTS' around the Ropery Walk area. I knew a Billy Soppit who lived there. I know he worked at the Knack on the gantry for a while. If he did not emigrate, he's probably living qietly in retirement somewhere?
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:01:16 (PDT)

For Dorothy mckay.Thanks for replying,however,our John was only born in 1963 so it cant have been him
Laraine Robison
Seaham, - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:00:18 (PDT)

Colin (Hall) Sorry, I'm not giving out my e-mail address. My last name looks odd in brackets and so do'se yours!
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 14:59:33 (PDT)

fao. gillian dawson , yes its mwa tell your mum i have been hiding !! got her foto in sea view , in front of her car 1960,s she lived in short sea view got memories of her , we went all over in the car tell her moved to scarborough , married , 1 girl was in business for nigh on 30yrs , i am gob smacked which is unusual for me , she drove buses , i often wondered about her tell her yes its ME
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 14:58:49 (PDT)

I do'nt think there are many people around who went to the SIS between 1940-45. Young people today would not recognise Seaham at all if they were transported back to wartime Seaham. The pit baths were not put in untill the 1950s, so, it would look strange to them men walking up the road with black, coal-dust faces. Horse and carts clip-clopping up the road as well. I remember sandwiches if brought up from the mine in the bait-tin tasted scrumptious. Oops! I've just got the gas bill through the letterbox. The price has gone way, way up. No wonder they called me a valued customer.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 14:57:33 (PDT)

For Laraine Robison. Was your brother John a gentle giant of a lad, and sometimes called "Mosey" If so I knew him well in the early 60s. I'm so sorry to hear he is dead, that must have been in the early eighties. I also remember you,a lovely lass, but you then went out with one of my mates and I ran off and joined the Navy.
Derek Robson
Street, Somerset UK - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:42:07 (PST)

Please I am trying to find Lorna Potts who was a friend of my mam. My mam is Evelyn Walton who lived at Sea View Murton until 1966 when she moved to Peterlee. I was wondering if Lorna Stokes is the Lorna we are looking for. My mam would love to get in touch with her.
Gillian Dawson
Cambridge, uk - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:40:40 (PST)

Hi, My name is Geoff Kerr-Morgan and I live in Middlesbrough. My Gran was called Candace Botwright and hailed from Seaham my Grandad was Thomas Kerr-Morgan. I know some Kerr-Morgan's were Policemen in Seaham area one being called Joseph. Joseph was married to Henrietta whose daughter Olive married John Burnham they lived in North Dene Ave Seaham. I was hoping that any relatives searching their family tree would like to make contact. My Grandparents moved into Blackhall. There my relatives are called Ryan, Holmes and Hedley to name a few.
Geoffrey Kerr Morgan
Middlesbrough, - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:27:29 (PST)

FAO Lorna Stokes Hi I was wondering if Lorna Stokes who writes on here was called Potts before marriage. My mother Evelyn Carr nee Walton would love to get in touch with her. My mother was a Murton lass until she married in 1966 and moved to Peterlee. We now live in Cambridge.
Gill Dawson
Caambridge, - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:25:21 (PST)

re billy wood i rememberwhen he used to get dressed as a woman and lead the banner and band out of dawdon on big meeting day i think that was in the late 40s cheers harry
harry hunter
redcar, - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:22:55 (PST)

this is for laraine robison i went to school with a john bell bit i am not sure if he was your brother or not i left camden square school aged 16 in 1967.
dorotjy mckay
boston, - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:21:35 (PST)

My sister was Lorna Potts best mate
Goerge Walton
Birmingham, - Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:20:35 (PST)

Brian [Greenfinger], I gather from some comment you made earlier that we were at the High Colliery School at the same time, if not in the same class, because you mentioned events we were both involved in. We therefore must have been at the SIS at the same time although, again, not in the same class perhaps. I was in all the 'A' classes from 1-4, with teachers like Frank Masterman, and Les Hood. I also had a run-in with the Head, Wetherly, when he wanted to cane me for something I hadn't done. I didn't mind if I was guilty as charged, but on this occasion I wasn't and refused point blank to accept his punishment and he wasn't quick enough to catch me. Perhaps if we swapped e-mails and then photos I might be able to place you but to be honest, and I put it down to long absence, I can't put a face to the name. Ed Mason will give you my e-mail address.
Gaynor Duckworth
- Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:19:37 (PST)

Brian [Greenfinger], I gather from some comment you made earlier that we were at the High Colliery School at the same time, if not in the same class, because you mentioned events we were both involved in. We therefore must have been at the SIS at the same time although, again, not in the same class perhaps. I was in all the 'A' classes from 1-4, with teachers like Frank Masterman, and Les Hood. I also had a run-in with the Head, Wetherly, when he wanted to cane me for something I hadn't done. I didn't mind if I was guilty as charged, but on this occasion I wasn't and refused point blank to accept his punishment and he wasn't quick enough to catch me. Perhaps if we swapped e-mails and then photos I might be able to place you but to be honest, and I put it down to long absence, I can't put a face to the name. Ed Mason will give you my e-mail address.
Colin Hall
- Friday, March 07, 2008 at 16:17:50 (PST)

for anyone out there who went to the SIS in the war years 41 to 45,i recently met a man on a visit to my local hospital.he tells me during the war he was evacuated to people in deneside,he attended the SIS..a cockney,, i think age 75. his name is Bill Head but says he was known as the vaccy, if any one remembers him he would be glad to hear from them,i can get in touch with him if anyone does remember him. R M
r. masters
- Sunday, March 02, 2008 at 13:57:10 (PST)

For R.Masters. Lorna Stokes woul;d like your email address. If this is ok please send it to me in a Guestbook submission and we will forward it to Lorna.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 15:01:12 (PST)

There seems to be a lot of murder and drug-busting going on in the Sunderland Echo. Seaham has always been too close to Sunderland for comfort!
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:15:42 (PST)

I am the right way up and alive and kicking myself Seahamlad and it's good to hear from you again. Jacquiline did make tentative enquiries about you a little while ago but there has been nothing since. For myself, I had made enquiries about lads I went to the SIS with and in the same class. But, I heard they had died and I thought they could not have been very old when they kicked the bucket. Well, It has stopped me asking about anyone else I went to School with. Harrison Ford is 66 and he is making another Indiana Jones Film, good luck to him I say. I'll have more to say nextime Seahamlad, keep posting and more power to your elbow.
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:14:58 (PST)

FAO.lorna.with regard to your enquiry.about family,try Family & Friends Search,, sunderland echo site,someone asking for similar names around that time,& area,, maybe a long shot but worth a try.. Ron
r. masters
stevenage, - Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:13:24 (PST)

Hello to all.I am a recent convert to your website.I was born in Seaham along with my three brothers and sisters who lived at Parkside.My wonderful brother John died aged thirty eight of stomach cancer.If anyone remembers the Bells please reply.Im Laraine,my brothers were George,Bob, and the late John,,sisters,Margaret,Wendy and Sheila.On a lighter note,my lovely Dad ,is still alive at the grand old age of eighty six.He attributes his longevity to smoking only non tipped cigarettes .He must be the exception that proves the rule.
Laraine Robison
Seaham, - Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:12:34 (PST)

fao. do ron ron masters. have asked ed. and sadie for your e. mail address , glad that place is up !!! we have app. on march 17th. keep the black gold, kiss it for luck , have a bigger lump !!!! Been sending family history to america, he found me by accident . fao. judy c. asked my brother if he remembered your family, straight away said yes your nancy says he thinks they are the same age and Ron i then can talk to you when i get your mail address
Geoff Hudson
Seaham, - Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:11:19 (PST)

fao. do ron ron masters. have asked ed. and sadie for your e. mail address , glad that place is up !!! we have app. on march 17th. keep the black gold, kiss it for luck , have a bigger lump !!!! Been sending family history to america, he found me by accident . fao. judy c. asked my brother if he remembered your family, straight away said yes your nancy says he thinks they are the same age and Ron i then can talk to you when i get your mail address
lorna stokes
- Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 14:09:53 (PST)

MESSAGE FOR SHARON MEEK:Margaret Tennick wants you to have her email address. Please send in a submission to the Guestbook including your email address if you want us to send it to you.
Ed Mason - Seaham Harbour Online
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Sunday, February 24, 2008 at 14:32:09 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, As far as I know we do not have a "Radio Seaham" as yet, we do have a lot of "Hams" in the area though, we also have a lot of small shops closing down in the Church Street area, no doubt due to the new shopping complex opening. things will never be the same again, its progress of a sort, but sad in a way. So how are you keeping lately Friend? Has Jacqueline deserted us? Would really appreciate comments from her on the race to the White House, Whom does she favor? Whom do you favor?
Seahamlad
- Sunday, February 24, 2008 at 14:28:06 (PST)

FAO Maureen...... I was born in Murton and after I was married lived in Deneside and Parkside. I went to Seaham Harbour Grammar school on Princess Road. We came to Canada in 1974. On my my visit I did go to Seaham Hall a lot different to what it was last time I saw it I also visited the Crows Nest and was at the opening of Byron Place.I think Seaham is to be commended for all the upgrades unlike Murton.I enjoy the GB very much I have got in touch with people I knew years ago and like to read what is happening at home. Thanks Sadie and Ed for giving us ex pats a little bit of home. Kindest regards Judy
Judy C
Alliston, - Sunday, February 24, 2008 at 14:27:04 (PST)

Is there a Radio Seaham? When I click on Radio Seaham, up pops Radio Newcastle. I d'ont want anything to do with Newcastle. Gateshead has a good shopping mall and an Angel watching over everything. This Microsoft Vista can't get me Radio Seaham!
Brian Greenfingers
- Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 15:04:36 (PST)

Can anyone help with information about New Seaham. My family tree research has led me to addresses in Hoy Street, Rutherford Avenue and Ambleside Avenue in the 1940's.Sadly I'm to far away for a visit at the moment but I'd like to know when these properties where built and if they were privately owned or local authority. The Family name is Anderson should anyone have any information on individuals, particularly of Hannah Anderson who is said to have been a local Councillor (she died in 1953). If you or any (probably elderly) relatives lived here at this time I would be so grateful for any snippits of info. Thanks.
Denise E
Cambridge, - Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 15:03:32 (PST)

FAO Judy C Alliston, just for the experience why dont you drop in to Seaham Hall for coffee and biscuits and sit out on the terrace, last time we went in it was £4.50 for two coffees and a few biscuits, was only that the church next door was closed to visitors and a passer by suggested we go in for coffee. Have also been to bark leaf and berries on the front, very nice too, bought some postcards back and some little pressies. Are you from Seaham, my husband left about 40 years ago, have still got relations up there so we do get up at least once a year. What do you think of this guestbook then Judy. Kind regards Maureen
maureen
- Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 15:02:13 (PST)

lorna.been im touch with friends in crete. 99% finished,should be all done for april 1st [or maybe the next day],,they have a lovely outlook on life,,advertising for staff now & all sports facilities ready...i,m still chasing insurance,but running out of options,next treatment.. & my hosp. appt on 26/2 will sort it one way or another..but if we do get there & can meet the offer of a proper greek meza for you & hubby is on the table,, might even give you that lump of coal back.hope everthing goes ok for you, ED has my e/mail. ask him if you want it..RON
r. masters
herts - Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 15:00:54 (PST)

For Ron Masters, hi again Ron, i would love to see those photos of maureen from the 50's bet she would too
maureen
farnborough, - Thursday, February 21, 2008 at 14:59:10 (PST)

Jupiter. fao Coalhewer. In answer to your question about submisions to the guestbook please read the conditions under which the guestbook operates. thanks Sadie
Sadie M
- Sunday, February 17, 2008 at 14:46:21 (PST)

If anyone is visiting Seaham when you walk along the seafront don't forget to call in for coffee at Bark Leaf and Berries. On my recent visit I went there every day to be greeted like an old friend by a wonderfull staff. The coffee is great and they have the most unusual gift shop. If any of you are reading this Thanks again girls and guys
judy C
Alliston, - Sunday, February 17, 2008 at 14:43:03 (PST)

hello maureen. johny,s maureen got mixed up,we all get senior moments.mine are pretty regular.stan was doris,s brother. dot & i would have been married 54 yrs this aug. sadly i lost dot in 1998..tell her i still have photo,s of her & dot with a bunch of girls from about1951 the only other ones i can name now is a florence wilson,& a josie foster, give her my regards, happy days..ron
r. masters
stevenage, - Sunday, February 17, 2008 at 14:41:54 (PST)

I am looking for any info about edward william potts and he married pheobe ann madara , living at murton colliery, had 3 children ann potts b. easington 1855, ella potts easington 1871 edward robert potts 1875 easington , they left for new york in 1880 ship called NEVADA got her with the children, no husband listed they went to philadelphia, i can,t find a marriage looking at dalton-le-dale, easington , one child pheobe ann oct.7th. 1877 murton colliery , an american relative asking for help. FAO.DO RON RON i know its being built hope its finished by i get there !!! or if i get there should i say , you know what i mean take care
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Sunday, February 17, 2008 at 14:40:46 (PST)

fao Ron masters, sorry ron maureen gave me wrong info, should have been stan(your brother) she said charlie, not sure if the other message came out, i didnt start with jupiter regards maureen
maureen
- Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 14:28:56 (PST)

Hi there everyone, I was telling me Mam today about this site and she wanted me to see if anyone remembers Herbie he had a club foot and ran the horse and cart shop at the cottages around 1940. Mam and her family lived at Jasper Ave Deneside and grew up in Seaham. Mam is the former Yvonne Gilbert her brother Melvin and sister Bernice have great memories of this time Auntie Bernice was a lot younger than mam and her brother.If anyone remembers I would love to hear from you.
Tracey Harland Vincent
Fairmont, W V - Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 14:28:06 (PST)

Hi Ron Masters, just been talking to johnnys wife maureen and she remembers you, you have a brother charlie who lives in Murton, your wife was called doris, funny that i was saying to maureen my mums name was doris and my dads name was charlier, how wierd is that then. This March maureen and johnny would have been married 56 years.
Maureen
farnborough, - Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 14:26:37 (PST)

Does anyone know the whereabouts of either Geoff Hudson, who used to live in New Seaham or Brian Watts. They were members of the 60s Seaham pub band The Cossacks. I was a member and am trying to locate them to see if they have any old photos of the band members. Many thanks.
John Warburton
Spennithorne, North Yorkshire - Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 14:25:18 (PST)

J Armstrong,(San Francisco) I have a complete family tree going back to 1800 if you would like a copy.
F.W
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 15:01:37 (PST)

Can anybody recall Billy Woods, he lived a few doors down from Queensburry Road? Joe Simpson lived near by on the otherside of Malvern I think. Then there was Norman Roberts, I went to the SIS with him. I remember when I was A kid a feller at Dalton-le-Dale was always shooting Hawks that perched in the trees off the main road, he used a 2.2 rifle.
Brian Greenfingers
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 15:00:56 (PST)

Does anyone know the where abouts of George Watt, who used to live in Cottages Road, Dawdon? - Joyce Salt (nee Green)
Joyce Salt nee Green
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 15:00:08 (PST)

thanks for such an interesting website i visited seaham last summer and was very impressed even though i lived in the north east for over twenty years i had never been too seaham better late than never i will be back this summer ian and family the jura
ian watson
bellignat, ain france - Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:59:21 (PST)

Hi Janet, got your e-mail but have had loads of problems with ***broadband and lost it. Please send it again, looking forward to hearing everthing. Ray Leighton
Ray Leighton
Durham, - Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:58:03 (PST)

FAO,M,Raffety sorry to hear about johny,,he was the one of the family i knew most,he was the one that was involved with the maureen i asked about.i,m talking half a century ago,but the name was maureen white,of murton,but we all had girl friends then,@ 15 & 16. some lasted ,some didnt,i haven,t been home by car for almost 3 yrs..last time i used nat/express from steveage its as fast as driving &only £10 & i can hire a car for 3days . i still check the photo libary on this site & the sunderland echo on line has a good virtual tour. as you say its still home,tho much changed. i worked in farnbro.for a while in the 70s inspecting military fighting vehicles a nice place but i expect much changed now.enjoy your visit to your family & the dips. i only have 1 relative up home now,& most of my friends sadly gone so not much incentive to back but lots of memories to fall back on. regards R M
ron masters
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:57:14 (PST)

Does anyone that worked at Brian Mills in the late 50s and early 60s, remember a girl called Phylis Reah. She was a gingery haired girl with freckles. One of her old friends by the name of Norma is trying to find her.
Ann Hanson
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:55:43 (PST)

Dianne when you start researching John Smith all you need to start is Elizabeth's marriage certificate.Did she marry in Canada or England? Once known apply for the certificate. Try Tony Whitehead's site, Durham Records on Line,type in her surname, and you will find present day family names.
Susan
Canada - Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:55:00 (PST)

fao. the real bill sa. MY CONLONS ARE ELIZA CONLON BORN 1868 SEAHAM HARBOUR, HER FATHER WAS A PUBLICAN, THEY WENT BANKRUPT, SHE RAN AWAY TO SCARBOROUGH, WAS A BARMAID AND MET THOMAS LAUGHTON, HE WAS A BUTLER, MARRIED IN GUISBOROUGH, NORTH YORKSHIRE 1893, THEY HAD 3BOYS THOMAS, CHARLES, FRANK THE LATTER DIED OF TB, CHARLES WAS A FAMOUS ACTOR ON FILM, ELIZA HAD A BROTHER CALLED LUKE BORN 1866,I THINK THEY WERE IRISH CATHOLICS , MY GREATGRANDMOTHER MARRIED A CONLON FROM SEAHAM HARBOUR, SHE WAS IRISH CATHOLIC, YOUR CONLONS COULD BE DECENDANTS, HAVE A PHOTO OF ELIZA, FOUND THINGS IN MY GRANDMOTHERS BOX AND MY MOTHERS ABOUT CONLONS , STRUGGLING WITH MY FATHERS SIDE , WE THOUGHT MY GRANDFATHER WAS BURIED AT DALTON LE DALE NOW I FIND HIM IN FRANCE BURIED AT ARRAS MEMORIAL WW1 1917 AGE 36YRS.MY FATHER WAS BROUGHT UP BY HIS GRANDPARENTS, HE NEVER TALKED ABOUT IT THEN I FIND OUT HE HAD A BROTHER AND SISTER THEN THE MOTHER REMARRIED A MAN WITH THE SAME SURNAME ANOTHER! SET OF CHILDREN , CONFUSING I AM HEINZ 57 VARIETIES
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:54:04 (PST)

FAO lorna.saw sentorini being built,not my scene i,m afraid,everything tempts you to stay in the one place,i like to meet the locals & ive never met a bad one yet.honest ,friendly,& helpfull. if its your first time,learn a few of the simple words it breaks the ice.try looking at elounda 77 net, WHO PaYS THE FERRYMAN was filmed there .its a simple place a bit like murton or the knack used to be,aunties & cousins & gran around the corner,but with lovely sea views & the kids will ask please can i sit & talk to you just to help with their english, ,not much happens today,but it will tomorrow if you know what i mean,if youre not sure about the menu,they say , come into the kitchen & i,ll show you or i,ll do it your way,my daughter visited in sept,& mentioned me, at reception, word spread, she came back with gifts for me from local people,& concern for my health, cant imagine butlins doing that. im at hospital on 26/2 depending on what they say i will give! it a go on 15/may. just tried to get med,cover but as once declared its info shared & blocked. have an evening meal on the water edge cafe,s in heraklion, ROMANTIC,,,youll think youre courting again. enjoy it. Ron
r. masters
- Monday, February 11, 2008 at 14:52:11 (PST)

Ed, could you please pass my e-mail to Eric Leighton and ask him to e-mail me? Thank you.(ERIC send me your email address and I will forward it to Colin.- Ed Mason
Colin Hall
NZ - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:36:08 (PST)

Hello Ron masters, just talkig to hubbie frankie and he does remember the watts and harry cole he knocked around with them apparently. He is not sure a\bout maureen working in the bakery, but when we speak again, if i remember i will ask her. Sadly johnny died last year and the other brother peter died about 1996/97. We are hoping to go up again this year, please god. I will again bring the stotties back but cant manage the dips, probably eat them before we reached london(horrible). Ed Mason has my email address.The sea front is looking really good now, sometimes we stay at aline st, frankies sister betty lives there and you just walk out of her door to the bottom cross over and your on the front, asda was being built and i understand its really good, ideal for people who dont want to go to town, hope i get to go to byron place shopping area when i am next up, which is where asda is roughly. Frankie will be 74 this may, he still has two sisters in the 70's and 80's up home(i always call it home, cos my sister in laws always used to say to us when are you coming home, pity we didnt live nearer i would be up more often. Do you go up on the train or drive, the train fares are quite good price wise, but its getting from farnborough to kings cross which is the most expensive bit. Hope to hear from you again and maybe i will forward some snaps of frankie and the family and also some shots i took whilst up there last year. Regards to you and your family Maureen
maureen rafferty
Farnborough, Hampshire uk - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:27:28 (PST)

Hi - I am doing my family tree, and I remember being told my great Grandather had something to do with the harbour (customs?circa 1920?). His name was Arthur Jones. I would love any info, or copies of photos if possible. cheers Jennifer
Jennifer Cotton
SYDNEY, - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:15:27 (PST)

I am researching my grandson's family, (he is ten years old). My grandson's father is Christopher Henry Smith, here in Ontario, Canada. I would like my grandson to have his family knowledge when he grows up. His grandmother, Elizabeth Isabel Gray Mileham, born 21 Church Street, Seaham Harbour, in 1927, unfortunately died here in Ontario three years ago. She married John Smith which I have yet to research (and with the name of John Smith, I don't hold too much hope). She was the daughter of John Thomas Mileham and Jane Mileham formerly Gray. I have researched the family back to 1858 and now looking for living relatives. Can you help? I believe the Chris Mileham that you know may be one of his relatives. I tried his hotmail address but it bounced back to me.
Dianne A. Boucher
Ontario - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:14:39 (PST)

HELLO, COULD YOU TELL ME IF J. ARMSTONG (SAN FRANCISCO IS THE JEAN WEATHERALL FROM ASH CRESCENT PARKSIDE
J. SCOLLEN
SEAHAM, - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:12:29 (PST)

re.Dickie Marrin , I am proud to say was my Uncle . and he had the "finest tenor voice in Seaham" . I believe he was a "Carroll Levis Discovery" the forerunner of the X factor, but due to family circumstances was not able to follow his dream and sing professionally although he had many opportunities. He served in the Army during the war and joined concert parties singing to the troops. I can remember him telling the stories about being in London during the Blitz on leave and singing to the people sheltering in the Undergound . No longer with us but fondly remembered
John Cox
Spalding, Lincs - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:11:42 (PST)

Seaham a future 'Hotspot' I'm just reading a report in the Saga Mag. Well, most Sea-side towns and villages are being singled out for the 'Retirement Developement' treatment from the money-mogles. Seaham will not escape till it looks like the Riviera of the North and not a speck of coal-dust in sight. I wonder if we will recognise Seaham when it's all done?......Comments please.
Brian Greenfingers
- Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:10:16 (PST)

I often Look at your home page and find it interesting, I, like many others are researching my family tree, I am looking for relatives of my Great Grandfather Henry Bernhard Anderson 1856 from Heligoland I have quite a lot of information so far and I would like to share my research with other relatives of Henry and Ellen Anderson. (Dora's grandchild) Carol
Carol Johnson
Murton, Co Durham - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:09:07 (PST)

I am looking for a Patrick McKenna (not sure if the spelling is correct), who was in PNG in 1983/4. Please contact me if you are that person. Thanks.
maggie fintic
cairns, - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:07:55 (PST)

Anybody got school photographs from Seaham Intermediate School , about 1950 - 1955
john brennan
hong kong - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:07:00 (PST)

Wherefore art thee Beardy? No sarcastic remarks for the slang man. Pity that your safari got scuppered. May be for the best though. You don't want to be in "Darkest Africa" when the Paw Paw hits the fan! Far better have a break in Skeggie or Campbell Town. Even better Welsh Wales. Get yer hiking boots on and get out there. Give my regards to the better half. Cheers Marra
The Real Real Bill in SA
- Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:05:53 (PST)

do ron masters , Glad you didn,t go on that trip with her , she did not tell you the whole truth!!!Yes we are going to Crete, hopefully , more tests in march, something else know, going to a new resort its called SENSATORI 5 STAR FULL BOARD WITH DRINKS, opens in may take a look , ref. The Rink i always go where i,m told not to, it,s more fun .get insurance from the net or age concern , if i told the whole truth we would not go anywhere, lifes too short do ron ron . get off on holiday in the sun , i am going to look elouda up to see if we are near , hubby says i am out of control. i say no i,m from murton !!!! Laff i worked at murton co-op bakery in 1956, tipped 10trays of cakes over and got the sack, didn,t like it anyway , told me i was impitent!!!! only there a week keep smiling do ron ron
lorna stokes
- Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:02:56 (PST)

HI, LORNA STOKES. I WAS JUST HAVING A RAMBLE THROUGH LAST YEARS POSTS. I SAW YOU WERE ASKING QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONLONS (11 AUG). MAUREEN REPLIED (13th AUG)SAYING HER MAN KNEW OF THE CONLONS IN WARKWORTH. I KNEW THIS FAMILY WELL. FOR ABOUT 30 YEARS. THE SON THAT WENT TO THE STATES WAS TOM (UNFORTUNATELY HE PASSED AWAY 25th OCT 2007)HE RETURNED TO THE UK AND WAS LIVING IN OXFORD WHEN WE LEFT UK IN '78. THE FATHER WAS TOMMY AND THE MOTHER WAS FLORRIE. THERE WAS ALSO TWO SISTERS. PAT AND DENISE. I KNOW ALL THIS BECAUSE I WAS MARRIED TO DENISE. WE DIVORCED IN '85. SHE NOW LIVES IN WORTHING, WEST SUSSEX. HER SISTER PAT MARRIED A DOCTOR AND MOVED TO OHIO IN THE EARLY '70's, AND AS FAR AS I KNOW THEY ARE STILL THERE. SORRY IT HAS TAKEN SO LONG FOR ME TO SEE YOUR POSTING. HOPE THIS HELPS. REGARDS BILL
The real Bill ib SA
SA, - Saturday, February 02, 2008 at 16:01:10 (PST)

Sorry folks but we need to close the Guestbook for a week or so for maintenance. Please keep seding in your submissions which will be added to the Guestbook as soon as possible.
Ed Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 15:01:03 (PST)

The Mrs Wass you refer to lived directly over the road from us, one of the houses on the angle as you went past the green to Queensbury Road. She was a piano teacher. She had a very nice daughter as I recall! Ted Wilkinson lived in the next gable ender in Malvern, and Geordie Monarch was a couple of doors up from us. He's in that photo of the High Colliery Football team on the site home page. COLIN: Please send me your email address for forwarding. ED
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:57:48 (PST)

Has anyone any information about Sarah Farn (nee Cattermole) who lived in California St. circa 1917 and died in same year.
J Cattermole
Sunderland, - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:51:54 (PST)

My parents were Stand and Maureen Weatherall, I am interested in finding any Weatherall relatives that are still alive. I just visited Seaham this holiday and i was very happy to see how well it looks
j. armstrong
san francisco, - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:51:04 (PST)

fao maureen.. the brain works slower now.just read your 2nd letter,about brothers frankie & johny,the maureen i remember worked i think at murton co-op bakery with my wife [ girlfriend at the time] doris vardy.it seems a very long time ago,the raffety,s lived eastlea est.we knocked about with the watt bro,s & harry cole but i still have photo,s of dot & the bakery girls .. happy days RM
ron masters
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:49:38 (PST)

fao maureen raffety, i remember the shop ,,about opposite murleys. and stotty does go nice. i still make my own p/pudding.& supply it to the family.i believe ive asked before perhaps you missed it, i knew a frankie & johny raffety at the knack in the 50s one of them courted a maureen from murton,is it the same family & if you do get up home i,d be greatfull if you could drop me off a couple of those dips RM
ron masters
stevenage, - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:48:39 (PST)

lorna stokes, tried to jump start for that trip but i think the big ends are knocking so its off,seemed a nice girl tho. are you serious about CRETE,i go every year since i was on my own, a little place called ELOUNDA, if you ever get there tell any taverna owner around the harbour you know Mr RON it will get you free drinks.my trip there this MAY in doubt, insurance probs...how does your husband manage for cover. P/S the RINK till 11 o,clock!!!! thought you were one of the good girls,what was wrong with the nack miners hall on sat nights RM
ron masters
stevenage, - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:47:36 (PST)

To Rita Mortimer---The drownd boy's name was Gordon Jackson.
Brian Greenfingers
Netley Abbey, Hants - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 14:46:17 (PST)

Hello. A belated response to Jim Mather's message in April 2006 regarding a mortuary near Elgey's. I have been told this was located in the Seaham UDC depot on Foundry Road, next door to Elgey's. (unsure of dates). I hope this helps.
A. Chadwick
Wingate, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:22:37 (PST)

for the attn of eddie elliot, my husband and his brother worked at the Knack, hubbies name is frankie and his brother was called johnny. Has sisters in seaham married to leo groark who worked at the vane tempest, other sister lives in aline st her husband was jack dent who worked at dawdon pit, looking forward to getting up this year sometime to visit the family. Happy new year to you and all those from seaham.
maureen
farnborough, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:21:46 (PST)

This is for ron masters, re pease puddings and pork dips, at the bottom of church st you can still buy the pork dips, the are really nice, the pease pudding you can buy in the co-op or the butchers bottom of church st. Hope to get up this year and will have ham and pease pudding stottie cake, alwasy bring about half a dozen back with us. Have a great new year Regards Maureen and Frankie rafferty
maureen
farnborough, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:20:50 (PST)

Yes I remember the home made Peace Pudding. My mam used to make it in liquid Brown Ale, so if you didd't like the taste, you certainly liked the gravy. Lovely Jubbly.! My mam used to do Pea soup in a large bowl with sausages and I cann't remember what they called this concoction (please help). Xmas was great when you were youngings, I remember coming home to a nice smell of home made bread, rising in front of the coal fire, and my Mother making the Xmas cake "Mummy Mummy can I lick th bowl" and her reply was always "No son you should pull the chain like everybody else does" Ray Thompson_ is that the Ray I went to school with and lived in Portland and both attended the Seaham Muck Shifters (S.M.S). I can remember Norman Beer (Sadies brother) who with me and Jimmy Mid and Sheppie who sang in the choir at the church along the mission, with Mrs Wass at the organ. If you sang in the front row you could reach the plug in the wall with your feet, and pull out the plug to the organ and the church went quiet and you received a clout about the ear from Mrs Wass, and I was the one who always got the blame. Ann Price- A lovely story, we all miss ! our Parents at Xmas. Greetings to all who read this Guestbook and to them who compose the letters into print mainly the Masons. I'LL BE BACK
Eric Leighton
Seaham, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:19:30 (PST)

Seaham Harbour, My Father was born in Seaham Harbour in 1920. His name is Ralph. He has always spoke highly of Seaham. Does anyone know the Owen name in Seaham. They moved to Leeds near the beginning of WWII. Cheers, Alan
Alan Owen
Dorion, Quebec - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:17:34 (PST)

judy c. fancy you meeting Rose potts,s daughter , i used to go to her house and play she had a big dolls house and rocking horse in the wash house , also had a coloured doll which she wouldn,t let me touch , i got one in the end just recently off ebay !!!! never forgot that , did you mention me ? not seen rose since 1958, there was rose, me, barbara finn, joan lashley, and maureen elland , sheena harold , jean forrester , did you find margo gilchrist ?happy and healthy new year to you and your family
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:16:22 (PST)

fao. do ron ron masters . do not go on that trip , its rubbish , food not good and no transfers back ,weather and accomodation awfull, i am going to crete instead , I worked in sunderland and only could afford a penny dip, a bun with stuffing and dipped in gravy and 2oxo,s for a penny , you must have been on a good wage , my friday treat was going to the swimming baths on the high street next to Vaux,s brewery, then to ibbitsons for my treat, saturday night was the Rink ballroom in park lane last bus home was 10 to 11 , we would get off at dalton- le- dale and walk up the dene in pitch black dark , we had no fear when i think about it , it scares the life out of me . i wake up in a morning say yesssssssss i am alive which is a bonus !!! what shall i do today , keep going do ron ron , we have another round of appointments ahead keep well pp ps, that was my nickname at SCOOL!!!!!!!!!
lorna stokes
scarborough, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:15:17 (PST)

happy new year to everyone in seaham my home town miss it so much.A big hello to Ray and Carol hope you are ok and hope you had a good party in selby at new year c u both very soon.
shelly
selby, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:13:32 (PST)

Brian Greenfingers, you tell of going to a funeral of a lad drowned in the clay pit many years ago, can you remember his name? rita mortimer. Louth
rita s mortimer
louth, - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 16:12:46 (PST)

a happy & prosperous new year to all the guest book contributers & especialy ED& Sadie. not been 100% lately so have been able to read & keep in touch but not send to G/Book ,today i recieved a surprise e/mail,from someone who claimed to have got my profile from the G/Book. seems to be a very nice lady & although weve never met promised me a trip to heaven& asked very little in return, so at my age & condition,, why not ,, so if any reader has a good battery & some long jump leads, i,d be forever in their debt. P/S reading about the pease pudding, as an apprentice,fri night was pay night,and called for an ibbitsons tanner pork dip on the way to the bus home in park lane a bun,P/pud.&pork & crackling,,,I can taste it still,, can you still get them.& are they more than a tanner now R,Masters
r. masters
- Saturday, January 05, 2008 at 16:25:59 (PST)

i would like to wish all my old friends in parkside club a happy new year in 2008.I still have a lot of memories of seaham of parkside deneside and when i was at school.I went to camden square,sms,and iworked at the knack.But i joined the army at 18 so most of my memories are way back but reading this has brought them all back.thanks for the walk down memory lane.
eddie elliot
mansfield, - Saturday, January 05, 2008 at 16:24:11 (PST)

As it is already 2008 down here,[and by my reckoning you have a half- hour to go], I'd like to wish you Sadie and Eddie, and of course everyone else, a very Happy New Year.
Colin Hall
New Zealand - Tuesday, January 01, 2008 at 13:29:30 (PST)

fao. maureen rafferty you can get muslin at a fabric shop wash it and reuse time and tin me again also use it for a boiled leek suet pudding. i lived in murton left in 1958 we lived in princess street near the pit then moved to sea view they no longer exist now , have only cousins left up there all of us left for work scattered all over the world , i give them info on home , enjoy your pease pudding, sometimes i put garlic in it to fancy it up , melt the butter and garlic in the microwave then pour it in the hot pease pudding for a change , my hubby is a yorkshire man says to me can you make your ethnic food !!!!Have you tried savoury yorkshire pudd you can eat it cold ? Hanleys butchers in murton used to do this , i got the recipe before i left so carry on the tradition , wishing ed, sadie for such a wonderfull guest book have a heathy new year to one and all cheers everybody
lorna stokes
Scarborough, N.Yorks. UK - Tuesday, January 01, 2008 at 13:17:03 (PST)

Happy New Year everyone. Here's the 2008 Guestbook.
Ed & Sadie Mason
Seaham, Co. Durham UK - Tuesday, January 01, 2008 at 12:51:27 (PST)