Tagged With: Frank Burnley
Two Victorian funerals
Funerals were very important events in Victorian/Edwardian England and, fortunately for family history researchers, were often written up at length in the local press. My ancestors, brothers Frank and Thomas-William Burnley, who died in 1889 and 1906 respectively had a grand send off – befitting their social status. As was customary in the West Riding … Continue reading
The value of Wills
I have collected over 50 Wills in the course of my family history research, ranging in date from 1802 to 1975. One of the reasons I focussed my efforts on particular branches of the family was the likelihood of their leaving Wills, as well as being of sufficient local importance to feature in various archives. … Continue reading
Frank Burnley’s political career
There was a major reorganisation of local government in 1888 of which one outcome was the setting up of the County Council of the West Riding, which chose to meet in Wakefield. My ancestor Frank Burnley (1837-1889) was elected the first councillor for Birstall district – a feat achieved amidst some controversy. Local newspapers of … Continue reading
‘Romance’ and its consequences – children
Tracey wrote about births following very quickly on marriage. Surely this was the best way to encourage young men into wedlock? To be barren was a terrible misfortune – and until the 20th century large families were unavoidable. My 19th century married ancestors either had none or up to eight children – the former not … Continue reading
Longing for a villain
Those virtuous Georgian/Victorian ancestors begin to grate after a while. Contemporary tributes and obituaries grow more fulsome as the 19th century progresses:- William Burnley (1724-1813) from his memorial inscription, his memory yet lives, as a bright example to the Church of his devotedness to his friends and acquaintances, of sincerity of heart and integrity. His … Continue reading