Don't just read them, please add one yourself - click here . Note - email addresses are written with the @ replaced with 'at'. - you will have to change it back.

I lived at the end of Lincoln Road, Wrockwardine Wood. Is it possible to get a copy of the maps you have shown, they are excellent, but not quite clear enough to read road names. I wondered if there were any clearer more detailed ones in existance?
Cheers
Harry Bouckley

Ed. - Thanks for your compliments Harry, but I'm afraid that the maps went back to the
> owner after scanning. I scanned it before broadband, and was trying to
> make it download quickly.

If ever the person decides to scan them again, keep me in mind, could be worth having a download page.

Since the centre of Oakengates and the surrounding area was destroyed (sorry) by Telford and the need for roads, it is so good to see this history being retained. I was a paperboy in the mornings, going from Oakengates, over the Cockshutt, through the Prefabs and down the road towards
Donnington. Then at night I delivered parcels from the Brittain's shop, on an old shop bike, riding from Oakengates to Ketley Bank, St Georges, Trench, Wombridge, wherever there was a hill or when ever the weather was not too good. The worse the weather, the more parcels to deliver. So your photographs and maps send my memory raging.

Many thanks for the effort it must have taken to bring it together.

Keep up the good work, it is worthwhile and appreciated, even in Australia.

Harry Bouckley

From: Sandra Wade ( Turner)
Email: sandrawade'at'hotmail.co.uk
From: Trench, Telford

09/04/08

Enjoyed the reunion on Monday 7th April at the Priors Lee, nice to see a few old faces from the past and have a good chat about old times, first time I have been but will certainly be at the next one. Will have to see if we can get more people to attend so if you are reading this come along to the next one, and have a great night. Not sure when it is but I'm sure Jim will let us know.
Regards Sandra x

From: Eira (nee Williams)
Email: gwyneirasee@btinternet.com
From: Wrockwardine Wood

02/04/08

Hi
Moved back to the old house in Wade Road a couple of years ago when my mother died. Lots of memories from the June Room, Majestic, Gower Street Youth Club, The Chelsea Coffee Bar. I left Wrockwardine Wood Girls School in July 1963 at the ripe old age of 15+ and worked at Sinclair Ironworks (Allied Ironfounders) at Ketley until I left to have my daughter in 1972. Would love to hear from anyone who remebers me.

From: Carole O'Hare
Email: c.a.ohare'at'btinternet.com
From: Merseyside

28/03/08

Hello, I am researching my family tree, and I am interested in the names Blakemore and Ball. John and Mary Blakemore, were my GGGrandparents, their daughter Matilda (b. 1846) married Stephen Ball in 1868, his parents were James and Eliza. I would be grateful for any information on the mentioned names.

Kind regards, Carole

From: June Wilcox
june.wilcox1'at'btinternet.com
Walsall West Midlands

14/03/08

Hi,

I am researching my family history and have discovered that my maternal Gt Gt Grandfather John Powel was born in Oakengates 1806-1811. Census records for 1841 and 1851 show that he and his family were living in Short Heath Willenhall. Unfortunately this is the only information I have been able to find for him. Can anyone help me further? Many thanks.

From: Jim Austen
jimoausten'at'blueyonder.co.uk
Nr Oakengates

10/03/08

Please see the entry 18/12/07. The reunion will be held at the "Priors Lee" on 7th April 2008. All teenagers from the late 50s and 60s are invited to join us

From: Denise Wynne
Email: blondie_6319 'at' yahoo.com
From: Trench, Telford

Date: 09/01/08

Hi there, would love to catch up with old school friends who attended Sir John Hunt in 74 to 79!

From: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten'at'blueyonder.co.uk
From: nr Oakengates - where else

Date: 18/12/07

The 4th six monthly reunion of teenagers from the 50's and 60's took place at the "White Horse" Wrockwardine Wood on 8th October 07. These get-togethers are getting better each time so much so that it may be necessary to form a committee. Things have changed a lot in the Oakengates/Donnington/Wellington areas in the last 50 years but the memories linger on what life was like for us teenagers then. If you can remember The Majestic, June Room, Chelsea Coffee Bar, Grosvenor Cinema, Cartwheel Cafe, Miners Club, Globe Cinema, Regent Cinema and Donnington and St Georges Youth Clubs then you are not alone.

Why not come along to the next reunion in April 08 and join us to relive your memories? A pint and a chat with many laughs and some tears will do you the world of good, you'll never know who you will meet and you'll feel ten years younger the next morning!! Venue to be announced later - watch this space.

From: Karen
Email: london.karen 'at' hotmail.co.uk
From: Warrington
Date: 4/12/07

Hi, my name is Karen and I am tracing my family tree on my dad's side. He is called Barry Lloyd and we have so far traced our family tree back to 1880 to a gentleman called George Lloyd who lived in Wrockwardine Wood.
We went last August to look at the area were he was born and thought what a lovely picturesque place it is, we are still trying to locate other members of our family tree, so if any body can help us, please contact me at london.karen 'at' hotmail.co.uk .
thankyou
love Karen

From: Jack Hazeldine
Email: jack 'at' westwaysgroup.com
From: Vernon, British Columbia, Canada
Date:18/11/07

My Mum was born in Oakengates in 1924 and lived across from St Georges church.
Her maiden name is Rigby, (Phyllis) she was one of the Jack Rigby siblings, Jack was a famous brass band leader with the Lilleshall Brass band.
I would really like any photo's of the band and mums army unit, and would like to e:mail any one who knew mum in those days.

From: Mr Joshua Hooper
Email:josh 'at' hooperconcrete.com
From:USA
Date:16/10/07

My family migrated from Ireland to Oakengates a couple centuries ago. Are there any residents with the surname "Hooper" still living in Oakengates? What is the population of Oakengates presently?

From: David Bradshaw
Email: bradshaw-2 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Northamptonshire
Date: 08/10/07

Native of Oakengates, was a friend of Brian Arnold. Tried his e-mail address and failed to connect. Could Brian contact me?

From: Al Young
Email: ayoung1955 'at' yahoo.co.uk
From:Wellington
Date:02/10/07

Does anyone remember the Herbert family that used to live on the Cockshutt? I'm trying to find out about Thomas Herbert, he used to work at Walkers in Donnington. Also I would like any information on any of the rest of the family please. Thankyou.

From: Shirl
Email: shirlxx 'at' yahoo.com
From:Telford
Date:02/10/07

Hi my name is Shirl, I would like to hear from Paul Jones of Oakengates to see how he's getting on. His nickname was SPIDER was on cb and he was a very good friend, it would be nice to find out how things are in life. I did find him on F/REUNITED but his was too tight to join up to send emails lol

Hope to catch up soon

Shirley x

From: Mr Keith Bailey
Email: keithb 'at' fish.co.uk
From:Telford
Date:04/10/07

The 2nd Oakengates Boys' Brigade is holding a reunion to celebrate 60 years since it was founded in 1947. This will be held on Saturday the 13th October 2007 at Oakengates United Church from 2-30pm until 10pm. A display of old photographs and films will be available for viewing. All ex members and friends welcome.

Name: Mr Roy Noel Derbyshire
Email: roynd 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Swindon, Wiltshire
Date: 18/09/07

May I thank the five good people who took the trouble to answer my requests for contacts, its one hell of a task to try to trace folk of sixty years back.
Neil Pessall, Dorothy Sanders, Cliff Smart, Yvonne Taylor on behalf of Les Brayne, and Marion Jones (nee Woodhall). Thank you all for your valiant efforts, they all contained valuable information, which helped to some extent.

If I may make some remarks, Cliff Smart, you must have spoken to some one else, as I was serving in the Middle East 1950-1953, Dad was in Northampton, he did not visit Oakengates until the early 1970's.
Les, sorry I spelt your name incorrectly, I used to walk with my Grandfather past your house on the way to Wombridge Church every Sunday morning, (no matter what weather!)
Oakengates has changed, to be sure, half of Slaney Street has gone, to make way for the car park, the four house of Belle View deomolished on Stafford Road, new bridge over the old railway, masses of houses on the old open fields leading to Wombridge, no longer an open view from Stafford Road towards Walton Avenue.

I did try to take it all on board from different view points, but I failed, I am left with what used to be in a great small Town of great folk, that picture will never be erased from my mind's eye.
Could anyone inform me as to how I can purchase a copy of the Board Book 'Oakengates in the words of Oakengates People' published 1987? I took a loan of this book through the local Library here in Swindon, who in turn borrowed a copy from Portsmouth Library. This book happens to mention two people I knew as members of my Family.
Thank you Oakengates

Name: Rosemary Charman nee Lane
Email: roseyc2007@hotmail.co.uk
From: St. Georges
Date: 17/09/07

This is an update on my old e.mail. I grew up in the sixties and remember the coffee bar, the old youth club just off the bridge in Oakengates run by Dennis Boyle, who later ran the bingo hall at the old cinema. Sadly all our old haunts have now gone, but it was a great place to live and have fun. Saturday nights was the Majestic in Wellington, what nights those were.

Name: David Timperley
Email: d_timperley2 'at' hotmail.com
From:
Date: 15/09/07

Dear reader, I am currently researching my family and my matrnal g,g,grandmother was born in Oakengates about 1807. All I have is her first name which is Salome. She married John Smith bn1807 from Broseley. I am assuming that she was married in her own parish and not that of her husband. Can anyone dig out any information on this matter for me please. There is now a matter of some urgency which stops me from getting to Oakengates myself as I am about to emigrate. God bless and a very hopeful thank you if only for taking the time to read this post. regards, David Timperley

contact me on mobile 07968425164

From: Jim Austen
jimoausten 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
Nr Oakengates

03/09/07

The 4th Reunion of teenagers from the 50s and 60s from around the Oakengates and Donnington areas will take place at the 'White Horse' public house (function room) on the 8th October 07 (7pm onwards). If you think you might know someone, please feel free to join us. A pint and a chat about the 'good old days' will do you the world of good. Casual wear please, anyone got any drape jackets,slim ties and beetle crushers?!!!

Name: Trevor Nock
Email: trevor-may 'at' hartleyclose.fsnet.co.uk
From: Mossey Green
Date: 03/05/07

Hi
We are researching the Ferriday family history, they lived in Ketley Bank (Coal Pit Bank) in the 1800's. If anyone has any info on the following please get in touch.
John Ferriday b1854 d1932. Emma nee Williams (of Old Park) d1925. Children, Samuel b1873 d1940. Daniel b1875. Sarah Jane b1876 d1938. Elizabeth b1879. John b1880. Joseph b1883 d1965. James b1884 d1960. Frank b1888.
We have some info on Sarah Jane and Joseph but if anyone out there knows any thing about the family please contact us.
Trevor and May Nock

From: Mr Roy.Noel Derbyshire
Email: roynd 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Swindon, Wiltshire

Date:13/04/07

Hi everyone
Further to my last effort, anyone remember starting at Wombridge Infants 1934/5, Miss Harrisons class, the Lady walked around to make sure we copied from the blackboard, onto our slates, failure brought the huge cane the teacher carried down onto an individuals hands!
Most Saturday evening, it was my task at my Grandmothers direction, to take myself off down to Mr Beards stall in front of Morris\'s papershop, to see what was available, tripe pigs trotters etc. had to get something, it was our supper, failure, meant cheese and bread with cocoa for supper.
Something did leave a lasting impression upon me, seeing the huge Traction engine comming in under the railway bridge up the main street to the wakes ground, Pat Collins fair had arrived. one year, I seem to remember Elephants in the parade?
Every year the Co-op had a sort of huge fair on the sports ground in St Georges, boxing booth, side shows of all descriptions. Does anyone remember the Brain brothers, used to do a lot of boxing, lived at the end of New street facing the open fields and the council depot/sewage overfow, part of Mr Balls farm opposite Wombridge Church.
Come on you locals, help me out, Oakengates has a wonderful history of past events, which involved a lot of the local population, most of which appear to have left the area.

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: near Oakengates
Date: 04/04/07

It gets better each time, the third reunion of Donnington & Oakengates teenagers of the 50s and 60s was a success and attracted seventeen old friends. Some hadn't seen each other for well over 40 years but soon all were swopping stories and memories. The evening passed very quickly but already the next six monthly meeting is being planned. If you missed this one, look on this site mid September for details, you will be very welcome.

Name: Dawn Adams
Email: edmould 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Trench
Date: 02/04/07

Hi

My name is Dawn Adams and I would like to make contact with any of my relatives, who I lost contact with 30 years ago.

Any of the Halfords from Madeley or the Vaughans from Wellington.

Name: Ian Bayley
Email: ian at jppau.com
From: Sydney, Australia
Date: 24/03/07

Jim,
What a great idea. I'd love to join you but the 705 from Greenwich, Sydney doesn't go via the Euston Way.
Have one for me.
Make it half a dozen if you like.
cheers and good luck
Ian

Name: Gary (Clemson/Hoof)
Email: garyfox1 at hotmail.com
From: Nottinghamshire
Date: 23/03/07

Hi,
I am trying to research my family tree. Family names with strong links to Oakengates are Hoof and Clemson, namely my Grandfather John Arthur Hoof, born approx 1901, and Emily Clemson, and also Lucy Dorothy Clemson, who would have been born around 1903, my Grandmother. The name of Howells has also been linked with the family, namely the father of John Arthur Hoof. Any information,( or indeed any relatives still living in the area )would be greatly apreciated. Brother to Lucy Clemson was Thomas Clemson.

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten at blueyonder.co.uk
From: near Oakengates
Date: 20/03/07

The 3rd reunion of old 'rockers' from the 50's & 60's who frequented Donnington & Oakengates in those times will now take place on the 2nd April 07 at the 'EUSTON WAY'. If you can remember those good old days and fancy a chat and a pint please join us, around 7.30pm.

Name: Noel Derbyshire
Email: roynd 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Swindon.Wiltshire
Date: 04/03/07

Hi again
Maybe I could take the liberty of mentioning a few names, such as Lads who played footie on the greeen piece behind the houses and back gardens of Slaney Street, also folk who lived in that street.
Billy Onions, Gordon Overton, David Holland and Doug Shotton. The girls who were in town those days, Violet and Vivien Evans ( pretty Daughters of Teddy and Maud ) Margorie Procter ( Duke of York) Maria Sidoli who just before the WW2 departed for Italy,Sheila Rushton.

Teachers at Hartshill School under the Headteacher, Miss Espley Miss Jenkins, Harrison and Owen, Clive Allinson and Tom Owen.
Shops and Businesses, Ormes ( Gents outfitters) Mr Steele manager,Morris's news-agents next to Parkes Ironmongers, Sidoli\'s Cafe/Icecream parlour (taken over by Mr Jarvis during WW2)Bagnals and Smarts sweet shops under the bridge. George Boliver the Blacksmith's behind Bagnals. Boyles wet fish and fresh vegatables shop, (seem to remember the floor collapsed with quite a few folk in at the time).
The Vicar at Wombridge : Rev Andrew Foster. I used to be pals with a Gerald Boliver who lived in Walton Avenue, who of course was the Son of the Blacksmith, who had one Harry Hanncocks working for him, the Hanncocks lived opposite the Park/ Recce on the corner of Hadley Road, the Gittens Family lived on the Hadley Road by the Park/Recce, not far from the railway bridge.
Pubs the Procter's The Duke of York, the Teagues the Victoria Vaults. My first taste of school, Miss Waltons red tin hut, top of Slaney Street. used to walk too school with Pearl Fletcher, Mr Fletcher was in the A.F.S.the Fletchers lived on Stafford Road, later moving to Wolverhampton, Pearl was an accomplished artist!
Anyone out there?
Keep good!

Name: James ( Jim) Rawlinson
Email: j.rawl at tiscali.co.uk
From: Knott-End-On-Sea, Lancashire, Nr Blackpool.
Date: 02/03/07

Ernest Dabbs, and myself (both of us being born in Ketley in the years 1929 respectfully) are about to organize a reunion with anyone who attended Ketley school, or lived in the surrounding areas between 1935 to 1945 that is just before the WW2- and the end of WW2. Mr Dabbs will get in touch with local people of whom we already know, So come on there must be still a good few of us walking this earth, if you have to use your zimmer frame it doesn't matter. So if this relates to YOU get in touch with Ernest Dabbs on 01952-614119 or Jim Rawlinson on 01253-813064 or E-mail me-j.rawl@tiscali.co.uk Regards Jim Rawlinson (Ex Ketleyite Mon)

Name: Carol Drewry
Email: carol_drewry at hotmail.com
From: St georges
Date: 01/03/07

Hi, my name is Carol, I moved to New Street two years ago and would like anyone to contact me who remembers New Street from years ago.

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten at blueyonder.co.uk
From: Nr Oakengates
Date: 27/02/07

The 3rd informal reunion of old Donnington & Oakengates 'Rockers' from the 50s and
60s will be on 26th March 2007. If you can remember those 'good old days' you are quite welcome to come along for a 'pint and a chat'. The last reunion attracted ten 'oldies' and a good time was had by all. Venue to be announced later using this media

Name: James Rawlinson
Email: j.rawl 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Knottend-on-sea , Poulton-Le-fylde, Lancashire
Date: 14/02/07

Hi everyone in Oakengates & surrounding areas. I was born and reared in Ketley in the year 1929, and believe me folks there was not much around at that time as regards entertainment or anything else for that matter. I started work at 14 years of age at the Wellington Journal, but I was not interested I was more mechanically minded, so I started at Irvine Brothers Garage on the Holyhead Road, later taken over by Vincent Greenhous (anyone recall it) That would be during the war (1944)

Called up for RAF N/S 1947 Demobbed 1949, then went to work at Chetwoods Garage in Tan Bank, Wellington. Stayed there 16 years . I notice a very good friend and school pal on this site amongst the historical advisers named Ernest Dabbs. If you read this Ernie get in touch (are you still making wine?) it was the best I tasted. Anyone that remembers me e-mail me. At my age (78) I can go back a long way about that area. I found this site while browsing and I think it is very very good, I will keep visiting it.

Also I read Anne Williams comments in the guestbook (nee Briggs) I may know you. Or not. But I certainly knew your father Cliff and all his brothers, we go way back. I have a photo of your father & mother (not stepmother) taken at my hotel in Blackpool, he was a very nice man to know. I was at Red Lake church last year visiting my moms grave, and I was amazed to see he was buried close to her by the gates (I did not know he had died). If you read this Anne -mail me. Ok Folks of Shropshire I have plenty of info but not enough space So regards to you all and best wishes. Jim

Name: Peter Cook
Email: petejean 'at' tpg.com.au
From: Queensland, Australia
Date: 14/02/07

I used to have relations living in Oakengates, I am not sure if some of the family are still there. Their surname was Nicholls, and they had a large factory. The only name I can remember is Derick, he would be well in his 80s if he still alive, my father's name was Jessie Cook.

Name: John Holloway
Email: jhy122 'at' btinternet.com
Date: 03/02/07

I left school in 1952 and my first job was on British rail. I worked as a junior in the Goods Dept at Oakengates for two years before going to do my military National Service.
The chief clerk was Mr Pugh and others in the office were Sid North, Harry Cowgill, Eric ? and Doreen ?. The Station master was J.I.Williams and in those days Oakengates was the hub for the whole area which included The Lilleshall Iron & Steel Co with the blast furnaces still in full power at Priors Lee, the huge marshalling yard at Hollinswood where complete freight trains were made up from Lilleshall Steel Works loaded with complete pre-fabricated factories etc for shipment abroad from the London and Liverpool docks.

All this was the responsibility of BR Oakengates including all the control of goods from Snedshill Works, Boulton Brickworks, Maddocks Foundry etc. The station yard would be full of goods wagons and the top end was full of scrap wheels from Sankey's ready to be taken away. The yard in the old LNWR station was similar and the shed there was full of Bibby's cattle and pig foods for delivery in the area.The signal box on the level crossing was dubbed 'The Kremlin' as the signalman was a staunch communist and always had a red flag flying .
Happy days

Name: Mrs Joan Wood (nee Downes)
Email: joanile 'at' optus.com.au
From: Adelaide, Australia.
Date: 30/01/07

I have just learned to use a computer, and thought I would find out if anyone reading this went to Oakengates Tech. (commercial side) around 1958-1960. I can remember the names of a few people and often wondered what has happened to them, here are a few, Pauline Goodger, Lesley Howard, Michael Jones if you read this I would like to hear from you.

Name: Betty Dobson (formerly Moss)
Email: betty_dobson 'at' hotmail.co.uk
From: Orihuela Costa, Spain
Date: 26/01/07

Hi everyone in Oakengates.

I lived there as a baby during my dad's army service at Donnington Camp,1939-1944. Unfortunately he spent most of his time in Lilleshall Hospital and a hospital in Ellesmere, then he was discharged from service as unfit.
My father Stanley Moss died in 1976 & my mum Betty will be 88yrs of age in June. They always spoke affectionately of Oakengates & seeing your website I felt I had to write in your guestbook.
On behalf of my dear parent's & myself I would like to wish all in Oakengates our very best wishes.

Name: Anthony Bekenn
Email: bekenn3 'at' cogeco.ca
From: Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, Canada
Date: 21/01/07

I am researching the Bekenn family tree. My great great grandfather, Richard Bekenn, married Catherine Greene. She was born in Lilleshall, Shropshire in 1849. I believe the Greene family is connected with Oakengates. Catherine's father was Dr. John Greene.

Does anyone have any information at the Bekenns or Greenes? It would be great to hear from you!

Name: Ann Williams
Email: davetrain 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Oakengates
Date: 14/01/07

I am Ann Williams (nee Briggs) and have lived in the Oakebngates/ Ketley Bank area all my life. I would be interested in hearing from anyone who remembers me. I went to Wrockwardine Wood Girls School and left in 1957. You may remember my father, Cliff Briggs or my eldest son, Andrew who is known as Andy King, DJ.

Name: Chrissie O'hagan
Email: chrissie_p_ohagan 'at' hotmail.com
From: North Wales
Date: 12/01/07

Does anyone remember me?
My maiden name is Christine Poole, I went to Wombridge Primary School and then Wellington Girls High School leaving in 1966.
My mum and brother still live in Ketley Bank and I still have many other relatives around the area.
I remember Oakengates coffee bar, the Majestic and a band called the Greasers.
It would be nice to hear what has become of any of my friends from those happy days

Name: Sharnia Holliday
Email: sweet_sharnia 'at' yahoo.co.uk
From: Dawley
Date: 03/01/07

Oakengates is a lovely place to visit, the locals are so friendly and there is plenty to see and do.

Name: Brian Coleman
Email: cokercoleman 'at' hotmail.com
From: Stafford
Date: 27/12/06

On visiting Oakengates on a business trip, I was lucky enough to be there for the Christmas Light event and I was taken by the friendliness of the locals. I was most impressed by a young lady vocalist at the Beacon Radio show called Natasha Marie, who seemed to impress all those around me as well. If this lady is a local girl she is a credit to the town, and I hope is a regular at other major Oakengates events as she was very talented. Thank you Oakengates, I look forward to my next visit

Name: Wendy Brockie
Email: wendybrockie 'at' yahoo.co.uk
From: Staffordshire
Date: 27/12/06

Hi, especially Pam Joyce! - I was born Wendy Woolley in 1948 and my mother came from Wombridge Farm, Oakengates,where they lived at the time, though they moved into the town shortly after that I think. It was a large family and mostly girls, so their names and that of their descendants are going to be different. I'd love to know more about them.

Name: Noel Derbyshire
Email: royderbyshire 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Swindon.Wiltshire
Date: 24/12/06

May I wish all who would perhaps remember me (31-43) A Happy Christmas and New Year.
I managed to take a loan of the book 'Oakengates by the people who live there' it brought tears of joy, the photo's made it seem only yesterday.
I was privileged to have enjoyed a wonderful childhood in Oakengates, surrounded by lots of friends, perhaps, if anyone should remember those days, please get in touch!
Regards to all.

Name: Mohammed Aslam Wassan
Email: aslamwassan 'at' hotmail.co.uk
From: England
Date: 20/12/06

I would like to say Happy Xmas, Prospect New Year 2007 and Happy Eid-qurban
TO all friends and best friends

Name: Cllr Steve Reece
Email: slinger9 'at' hotmail.com
From: Oakengates
Date: 18/12/06

Oakengates Town Council

wish you all a

Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year

Name: Rosemary Charman
Email: groovynan2006 'at' hotmail.com
From: St.Georges
Date: 06/12/06

Update on my old address

Name: Malcolm Locker
Email: malcolm 'at' lightsmithsphoto.co.uk
From: Telford
Date: 29/11/06

Just thought I'd let folk know that there are some pictures of Oakengates Folk Day on my website

2006: http://www.lightsmithsphoto.co.uk/Galleries/oakfolkday06/

2005: http://www.lightsmithsphoto.co.uk/Galleries/OakengatesFolk/

Feel free to download these web pictures for your own personal use if you want. I hope you like them! (Hi Bob)

Name: Steve Reece
Email: slinger9 'at' hotmail.com
From: Oakengates Town Council
Date: 24/11/06

Friday 1st December 2006.
Oakengates Lights Switch On.
All Oakengates District schools will be performing on Beacon Radio's stage, with Ryan and Di.

Starts 2:30pm

Lines Dancing with 'Feel the Beat'. Join in and have some fun! Craft stalls, Market, Fun-house, Roundabouts from 10am

The cast from Oakengates Theatre @ The Place will be switching on the lights at 6pm, event finishes at about 7:30pm

All times and events subject to change without notice

Name: gem an han
Email: gem_rocks28 'at' hotmail.co.uk
From: Oakengates
Date: 23/11/06

hey g we jus saaw ur gawjus piccy!! lol wow! was it serena n beki dat wrote da entri?? lol xxxxxxxxxxx
u squares!!

Name: Serena and Beki Email: bad_boi_jamie_100 'at' hotmail.com From: Wrockwardine Wood Date: 21/11/06

WE LURVEEEEEEEE THIS SYT MAN N LUKE N JAMIE 2 MWAH XXXXX THIS SYT IZ DE BEST :) IT HELPED US WITH ARE PROJECTS.

From: Mrs J Simkins
Email: jas 'at' langleymill.freeserve.co.uk
From: Warwickshire, 20.11.06

Is there any local history society that may have any research that includes Bekenn, or Greene, (doctor & surgeon) and associated families in the St Georges, Priors Lee or Muxton areas, pre-1920? Bekenn was a mining engineer, born Hamburg.

Name: Chris Bennett
Email: tremaineroad ' at' yahoo.com.au
From: Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia.
Date: 19/11/06

Hello. I'm just starting out tracing my family history. My late father used to work at Maddocks with his good friend Harry Grainger, this was back in the 1930's and 40's. My dad left Oakengates in 1940 to enlist in the Grenadier Guards and was posted to London where he lived the rest of his life. I used to go to Oakengates for holidays in the mid 60's and what great times I had. I plan to make a visit next year. Any info on Maddocks and Wellington Town F.C. where my dad was captain I would be most gratful. My dad's name was Alfred Podmore Bennett but was known as Pat.
I plan to have a pint in all the pubs in Market St where my dad used to enjoy the odd ale or two.
Cheers everyone.

Name: Dianne Lam
Email: diannelam 'at' btinternet.com
From: Newcastle-Under- Lyme
Date: 01/11/06

I am a Howells living in Staffordshire but my roots are Shropshire, as my father, Edward Howells, lived in St. Georges (Shifnal). I am desperate to trace my family, esp my dads brother Fred who may still be alive, though quite old now. If anyone has a pic of Foundry Row, St Georges (now demolished) I would be forever in your debt.

Name: Roy Noel Derbyshire
Email: royderbyshire 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: Swindon, Wiltshire, U.K.
Date: 26/10/06

After my Father and I arrived from New Zealand, January 1931, I was living at Hawthorn Villa, Stafford Road, at the opposite end of the row from Belle Vue, I was to remain there until my departure upon leaving the education system 1943.
My Father and I returned first in the 1970's to visit his elder Sister, who was living in Lilleshall, the younger Daughter still resides in Lilleshall, the Elder Daughter now resides in sheltered accomdation in Walton Avenue.
My Father and I returned twice more in the 1980's for the burial of both my Fathers Brother-in-law and his Wife, my Fathers Sister.
July 2003 my Wife and I visited Oakengates again, of course I had been advised that the whole row of houses off Stafford Road from Hawthorn Villa to Belle Vue had been demolished, to make way for the Express Way, as Stafford Road lies between that row and the old railway, it beats me why it was necessary, planners know best, so we are told?
Joan Butcher (ex Whitefoot) I have a photo of Hawthorn Villa, but unfortunately not one of Belle Vue, I knew it well, in fact I had been invited into the house, by the Lady of the house at that time, I was under the impression it was occupied by the Principal of Walker Tech.?
The good people in that row of houses, if I can remember correctly, from Hawthorn Villa, Derbyshire's. Bates, Mawdsley's, Martins .....? Belle Vue, Howell's
Would Joan Butcher be any relation too the Whitefoot Family which had the shop on the corner of Stafford Road opposite Owens shop ?, where I used to cycle to collect the accumulator.
We may well know of each other.
God bless Oakengates.

Name: John Bates
Email: beamish6 'at' hotmail.com
From: Oakengates
Date: 21/10/06

Hello all

I am trying to get in touch with Rosemary Charman, your email is not working, please reply to above email address.

Name: Julian Smart
Email: juliansmart5@yahoo.co.uk
From: Woodside & Trench...But now London
Date: 06/10/06

Hi there I love the web site and it make me think of home.
I came from Woodside and then moved to Trench in 1977. My Father re-set up 1st Oakengates Salvation Army Cub & Scout Pack back in 1978 which I attended & I used to sing in the junior quire (The Singing Company) and was a Junior Soldier with The Salvation Army Oakengate.
If any of you went to Teagues Bridge Junior School between 1977 - 1980 the a big Hi.

Name: Amenjeet Sidhu
Email: amenjeet 'at' hotmail.com
From: Canada
Date: 29/09/06

I was born in Telford and lived at 27 Laburnum Road for about 15 years. I just want to say hello to everyone that might know me.

Name: Julie Hall
Email: joolsiow 'at' hotmail.com
From: Isle of Wight
Date: 28/09/06

Hi Brian Oliver, are you the tall skinny lad?
Do you remember Neil Williams and Ivan Beetlestone, and Mr Symonds the maths teacher? SCARY MAN!!!
Get in touch if it is you, all the best
Julie

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Wrock Wood Oakengates
Date: 27/09/06

The second informal reunion of teenagers from the 50s and 60s took place at 'The Priorslee' on Mon 25th Sept 06. Old Rockers from the Oakengates and Donnington areas met for a pint and a chat. All commented that they really enjoyed it and looked forward to the next one which hopefully will be in six months time. If you were a teenager in Oakengates or Donnington during the 50s and 60s you would be quite welcome to join us, venue and time will be announced nearer the event.

From: Mrs Dorothy Sanders
dossie 'at' iinet.net.au
Perth, Western Australia

10/09/06

I came to Australia 41 years ago,with my husband and two children, having lived in Trench, St.Georges and Albrighton. I was born in St Georges, name of Meeson. I regularly log onto your website, find it very interesting, it keeps me in touch with my homeland. I still have brothers in Dawley,Muxton and Wolverhampton.
Some things have changed beyong recognition, some things are much the same. I was last in Oakengates in 1996.
Wish you well in your endeavours.

Name: G.M.Hoofe
Email: gmhoofe 'at' talktalk.net
From: North Wales
Date: 11/09/06

Great Site. I am at present researching my family and it seems I am well and truly attached to Oakengates and the surrounding villiages some of the names that have come to light already are Hoof, Hoofe, Bird, Vaughan, Bates, Rhodes, Pritchard, Lomas, Dunning, Holmes, and yet more so Salop is where it all started. If anyone is interested in getting in touch re any of these names I would be pleased to hear from them.

Name: Gaynor Steer
Email: gaynor.steer 'at' uk.compuware.com
From: Slough
Date: 05/09/06

I am resurching my family tree and it has brought home to me that I have lost touch with all my Uncle, Ants and Cousins in Oakengates. My Fathers name was Tom Burdett.They use to live at Walton Ave, not sure if it is still there any more, probably not.

I would love to hear from someone who knows about the Burdett family or indeed a member of my family so that we could catch up on the family news.

From: Mrs Celia Taylor
celiat1 'at' tiscali.co.uk
St.Georges (formerly Oakengates)

Re Jim Austen's recent email, I will be at our second reunion on 25th September at Priors Lodge. Please try & come!!!

At the moment i am in Majorca, returning this evening, so hope I am seen as making an effort!! (KEYBOARD IS LOUsY TO SAY THE LEAST.)

Kind regards
Celia

From: Mr Jerel Whittingham
jerel'at'whittingham.net
Cambridge

Excellent Oakengates history notes at

http://www.theoldefightingcocks.co.uk/blog/?page_id=6
Unknown complier

Doesn't miss much other than the Library moving from the Stafford Rd chapel in the early 70's!

Name: Steve Reece
Email: slinger9@hotmail.com
From: Oakengates
Date: 07/08/06

A BIG thank you to all those who attended Oakengates Town Councils, first Transport Through the Ages event.
It was good to see the people of Oakengates supporting our local event and to those who came from surrounding areas, We all welcome you.
Nexts years event will be bigger and better!!!
For your diaries, OAKENGATES CARNIVAL is returning after a Twenty year absence, though it will a Walking Carnival, ITS BACK! SUNDAY 24th June 2007. ( Subject to change, but with plenty of notice) Fancy Dress any theme, clubs, charities, Individuals, may enter. Contact The clerk on 01952 618844, and leave your details.Thank you all. Oakengates Town Council

Name: Patricia Schmitz
Email: pug-glehn@t-online.de
From: Germany
Date: 03/08/06

My Grandmother Margaret Ann Brown was born in Hadley in 1886.Her parents were John Brown Occ. Millwright and Eliza (nee Spruce).
I have managed to trace the Browns back to Redlake in 1841 John Brown Patternmaker b. ca,. 1806 Sarah (nee Hazlewood) Samuel b. 1818 Does anyone share the same family ties, am looking for any information.

Name: Ceri Webb
Email: ceriwebb@btinternet.com
From: Telford
Date: 31/07/06

Hi to Oakengates.

I have been researching my family history and have been told that my great aunt Julia Elizabeth Cadwallader worked in, or owned a grocers shop or fruit/veg shop in Oakengates. This would have been 1930's - to 1950's or 1960's at a guess. The surname for her family was sometimes pronounced Cadwallender and the family have been known by the surname Wallett which they used as an alias. She married Frederick Samuel Clay in 1927. So she would have been Julia Clay. I would be interested to know what the shop was called, and if anyone can remember her or her husband.
I would love to see photo's of the shop or my great aunt, as I have no idea what she looked like.

Regards,
Ceri Webb

Name: Cllr Steve Reece
Email: slinger9 'at' hotmail.com
From: Oakengates
Date: 28/07/06

Welcome to OAKENGATES. After two successful events this year,so far, we now have a 3rd FREE event! TRANSPORT THROUGH THE AGES. SUNDAY 6th AUGUST 2006, 12:30 to 6:30pm, In the Oakengates Theatre car park. We have at least 60 exhibits to date. Cars Bicycles Motorbikes and military vehicles, plus a Vintage kids roundabout. (Subject to change with out notice)

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Oakengates where else
Date: 27/07/06

The second informal reunion of teenagers from the 50s and 60s will provisionally take place on the 25th (Monday) September 06 at The Priors Lodge, Priorslee. Anyone that can remember Little Richard, Lonnie Donegan and Elvis vibrating from the Juke boxes at The June Room, Chelsea Coffee Bar and Miners Club will be welcome. Oakengates may be a cool nite spot now but if you knew where to go then it was really \in'. The last reunion attracted five old rockers from the Oakengates, Donnington areas, we pledged to bring along another person each to the next, so, stand up and be counted we need you. Long live Oakengates!!!

Name: Brian Olliver
Email: fatbrian 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Saint Georges, Shropshire
Date: 14/07/06

Hello to anyone who went to Hadley secondary modern school, later badly renamed to Manor, a triumph in modern education and forward thinking, an excellent school, what a pity it went to the dogs under poor management. I recall watching graceful high speed steam trains from the windows across that aweful cross country running track. I was there between 1957 and 1962. A rough and ready mix of Arleston, Ketley, Hadley and Trench hell bats were my school mates. A lot of who have gone on to be very successful.
It would be fitting for one of these individuals to open the new school. Please contact me if you remember me.

Name: Dorne Stanworth
Email: dornehill 'at' btinternet.com
From: Telford
Date: 12/07/06

I attended Wrockwardine Wood infants and junior schools, and then did one year at Wrockwardine Wood girls school. I then moved to the John Hunt school when it went comprehensive. I would like to hear from anybody who attended any of these schools, or anybody who knows me.

Name: Cllr Steve Reece
Email: 556316b 'at' cosford.raf.mod.uk
From: Oakengates
Date: 03/07/06

Oakengates in the Park 2006, Sunday 9th July.
HARTSHILL PARK. 12:00 to 18:00. Fun for all the family.
Arena displays, theatre, gymnastics, line dancing.
Singers and Bands. Fairground from Friday 7th July.
Free entry on the Gate.
Come and enjoy a great afternoons entertainment.
FOOTBALL FREE!!!!!!!

Name: Geoff Lloyd
Email: jefdayv 'at' msn.com
From: Wellingborough Northants
Date: 29/06/06

Would dearly love to contact old friend Peter Ball, who was a signwriter @Wembley signs. In the eighties he lived in Edgware, Middlesex. and later moved to Luton, Beds. Then we lost contact. So Pete if you get this, I would love to hear from you. --------Geoff Lloyd.

From: Mr Malcolm Locker
malcolm 'at' lightsmithsphoto.co.uk
Telford 25/06/06

Oakengates Folk Day pictures here:

http://www.lightsmithsphoto.co.uk/Galleries/oakfolkday06/

Enjoy!

Name: Clare Rockett
Email: sgrockett 'at' hotpop.com
From: Wolverhampton, West Midlands
Date: 10/06/06

Hi,
What a great site
I am currently trying to trace my family history. I would be grateful if anyone has any information about the old furnace houses at Wrockwardine Wood as it is the residence listed for my great great great grandfather John Bladen on the 1861 census. His occupation was blast furnace keeper. On the 1851 census the place is listed as 'Moss'.
Am also interested in a drowning at Dothill Pool in 1870 of Thomas Bladen who apparently fell through the ice whilst skating. if anyone has any information please email me, Cheers Clare Rockett

Name: Barry Chapman
Email: barry56 'at' ozemail.com.au
From: Tasmania, Australia
Date: 01/06/06

Could some kind soul who visits a public library in the Telford area please check the death notices/obituaries in the local newspaper(s) for 7 days from 28 February 1982, to find an announcement for Mrs Phyllis Ward,age 83, formerly of Oakengates, who died at Castle Lodge, Dawley on 27 Feb. 1982.

If that same kind soul could copy any relevant announcement and forward me details by email, I would be most grateful. Thanks in anticipation, Barry

Name: Gail Forrest
Email: gl_forrest'at' yahoo.co.uk
From: Surrey
Date: 23/05/06

I am trying to trace descendents of my great grandmother Florence Purcell who was born in the Oakengates area in 1871.Her parents were Joseph and Mary Purcell and there were several siblings called Harry, Alfred, Ann, Caroline, Ellen and Alice.They lived at Granville Buildings and also Pains Lane. I know that one of the sisters married George Tomlinson MP. I would be very grateful for any information.

Name: Lesley Downs
Email: lesley 'at' downs-ndt.com
From: Warwickshire
Date: 22/05/06

I am trying to trace any Downs, Piper or Sheppard family from 1960

Name: Tom Murray
Email: tom.murray2 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
Date: 21/05/06

I do not live in Oakengates but have visited the area. Many members of my family originated in that area. My great grandfather William Brookes lived in New Road Wrockwardine Wood from 1896-1900 with his wife Eliza Brookes (formerly Adams). She died in 1900 when they were living in Stafford Road.

Later he lived at Rose Cottage in Slaney Street 1904-1927. He remarried and his wife Catherine (possibly formerly Rigby) lived with him until he died in 1927. (I believe she ran a local school).

A number of his sons lived locally: George Brookes, who was a soldier in the KSLI and was killed in the first world war, Sam Brookes lived in Leonard Street and Thomas Brookes I believe lived in New Street.

This is a well run and interesting web page.

Name: Pam Eales
Email: mela1 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Kidderminster, Worcs
Date: 21/05/06

Hallo I'm Pam Eales(Barber) born Ketley Bank (many years ago) moved to Hadley school. Married John Eales (nip) at Redlake Church. Father Joe Barber from Beverley. I have a brother Ron Barber lives in Harlow. Does any one remember us?

Name: Tony Wilson
Email: czechhero 'at' gmail.com
From: Birmingham
Date: 20/05/06

I am contacting you regarding a resident of your town who used to ride for and later manage the Birmingham Brummies Speedway team in the 1970s. His name is Chris Harrison and I am almost sure that he still lives in your town. If anyone has any information on Chris could they please contact me via my email czechhero 'at' gmail.com. Thank you. You have a lovely town by the way.

Name: PIPPO
Email: pippogianoli 'at' hotmail.com
Date: 16/05/06

STEVE, I CAN'T GET YOU ON YOUR E-MAIL ADRESS, ARE YOU OK?

Thanks to all of yous to give my message

Name: Pamela Holland (formerly Houlston)
Email: pammyuk266 'at' hotmail.com
From: Shropshire
Date: 10/05/06

I moved to trench in 1957, first to Bonsors Row then in 1960 to Woodhouse Crescent, where I lived with my gran Eva Houlston. I attended the Glasshouse school in 1957, then went on to Wrockwardine Wood girls school in 1961. Miss Robinson was the headmistress and Mrs Trehearne the PE teacher. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Does anyone remember the Chelsea Coffee bar in Oakengates?

Name: Celia Taylor (nee Cummings)
Email: celiat1 'at' tiscali.co.uk
From: St.Georges, Telford
Date: 08/05/06

To anyone who has read Jim Austen\'s e-mail about our reunion from teenage years (some 40+ years ago!) I do hope that anyone who spent their teen years at St.Georges Youth Club or the Miner's Club in Oakengates will get in touch with us as you would be most welcome at any future get-togethers we may have! We are still the "young ones" from the 60's who I feel sure can compete against today's generation.

I am a widow but have done my best to make a life i.e. meeting with good friends, using the facilities at Oakengates Library (this is where I am now!) Also have my own PC, very keen and up to date with 60's music (our era!)

Love to hear from anyone.

Name: Mandy Lee
Email: mandy_lee_telford 'at' btinternet.com
From: Oakengates
Date: 06/05/06

Hi I would like to inform the ladies of Telford that there is a 'ladies only' gym that has opened in Hortonwood 50, its a great way to tone and trim.

check out the website www.revelationstudio.co.uk

regards
Mandy

Name: Jim Austen
Email: jimoausten 'at' blueyonder.co.uk
From: Near Oakengates where else
Date: 06/05/06

The first informal re-union of teenagers from the 50s and 60s took place at Euston Way on Wed 29th March 06. It was a success and enjoyed by all. Fourty years had passed since we were all together. In attendance were John (Ozzy) Owen,Dave Jones(Of the twins)me Jim Austen(Jankers)and two very brave ladies, Pam Thompson nee Gurney and Celia Taylor nee Cummings. We propose to keep in touch with re-unions perhaps once or twice a year. Anyone from that era who knows us are welcome to join in.

Name: Barry Chapman
Email: barry56 'at' ozemail.com.au
From: Tasmania, Australia
Date: 03/05/06

Does anyone remember Claude G.C. Ward, his wife Phyllis and their son, Peter E. Ward? Claude (born 1898 in the St. Georges registration district, who died at Oakengates in mid to late 1978)and Phyllis (died 1982) lived in Oakengates for 25-30 years after returning from South Africa in the early 1950s. Before he retired, Claude was an engineer who worked on the design & installation of reduced particle emission chimneys for industry. Would like to establish contact with son Peter who was born in 1931.
Thanks,
Barry

Click here for more Guest Entries