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Sarah Humphrey Burt Fagan
Sarah Humphrey Burt was born in Wareham, Dorset and christened on the 27th May 1825 at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Chichester, Sussex. She was the eldest of five children born to Harriet née Lomer and Dr...
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The Lovell Family of Bedford
During the late eighteenth century, the Lovell family dominated Bedford’s commercial sector. The local economy prospered through the production of grain, malt, and wool from surrounding farms and over successive generations the Lovell family developed...
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Archibald Howell, (or Howe), alias ‘Harry Jones’
It’s hard to imagine just how brutal childhood could be in Victorian Britain where countless children were homeless, orphaned or born into extreme poverty. Food was scarce and each day these children faced a harsh...
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The Burman Family Coach Builders of Bedford
In the 19th century, coach builders played a crucial role in the production of complete vehicles. They worked closely with artisans such as wheelwrights, blacksmiths, carpenters, harness makers, painters and upholsterers to transform designs into...
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The Hurst Family of Bedford
Historical records indicate that the Hurst family played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Bedford community during the 17th century, contributing significantly to its growth and development. At that time, Bedford was a market...
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Chemists, Druggists and Dentists 1780-1983
During the 19th century, Bedford was a thriving centre for highly skilled chemists, druggists, and dentists. These professionals played vital roles in providing essential healthcare services to the local community, contributing significantly to the well-being...
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The Osborn Family Clockmakers, Watchmakers and Jewellers
In the 19th century Britain emerged as a leading force in the watchmaking industry, overseeing the production of over half of the world's watches. London, being the central hub of innovation and craftsmanship, played an...
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The Dean family 19th Century Artisans
The Dane family, with deep roots in Norfolk for generations, established a longstanding presence in the region. Their history was intertwined with the rich tapestry of Norfolk's past. Over time, the spelling of the surname...
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Fanny Peters, Housekeeper to Sir Frederick Howard
Fanny Peters was born in 1864 in the small town of Storrington, Sussex. She moved to Bedford in 1890 to take up the parlour maid position to Lady Elizabeth Howard and her husband, Sir Frederick...
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The Hill family Newspaper Publishers
Rowland was born on 2nd March 1822 in Bedford and was one of the eight children of Joseph Hill and Susanna née Woodward. Susanna and Joseph were married on 26th November 1804 at St. Paul’s...