History & Research

A lot of people ask me about research. Bear in mind that I grew up in the aftermath of WW2 so do have memories.

On the other hand I do delight in researching the simple things. This is where I can share these things with you.

MARRIED FOR LIFE

Posted on 19th September, 2025

Did you know that when a couple got married in the early twentieth century, they bought furniture, even down to the enamel bread bin and stove that would last them …

After the War

Posted on 1st January, 2025

Bread was still rationed. Our balance of payments were bad so we couldn’t pay for the wheat to make bread. It wasn’t until after the coronation that things began gradually …

The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth the Second.

Posted on 1st January, 2025

Coronation 1953. The white haired lady is my grandmother who lived in Berkeley Street, Eastville, Bristol. Notice the crossover aprons. They were very common though hardly attractive. And the ages …

UK Women Doctors in the Thirties

Posted on 6th March, 2024

A New Doctor at the Orchard Cottage Hospital is set in the thirties. Back then and despite victory in securing the right to vote women were still second class citizens. …

Bristol Airport

Posted on 26th November, 2023

Previous to World War Two Bristol Airport was situated at Whitchurch (now a sprawling housing estate). It was mainly used for pleasure, air displays and flights to Ireland. As the …

Council Houses

Posted on 17th December, 2022

Solidly built and for some the first time ever they’d had an indoor bathroom and running water. OK, only a cold water tap but a big improvement on the water …

Wartime fashion and beauty

Posted on 6th June, 2022

A lot of people ask me about research. Bear in mind that I grew up in the aftermath of WW2 so do have memories of bombsites, poor quality food, grey …