Wigan Album
Billinge
10 Comments
Photo: Philip G.
Item #: 30707
Grandma also cared for us. On one occasion she, my brother, and me shared the same bed, as our parents danced the night away at a nearby ballroom.
And what a night's sleep that had been for my brother and me: "Listen fo't pitmens' clogs", she said, before regaling us with the a childrens' nursery rhyme in Billinge/Wigan Speyk.
Hark'n, Hark'n, dogs er baerkin
Beggars er cummin to taewn
Somw wi rags, un sum wi bags
Un sum wi silk'n gaewns.
Talk about the heebie-jeebies - strewth!
They both 'had it rough' - as indeed had so many others.
Grandma's younger brother, Edwin, was killed by mortar fire in August 1916 during his service as a Lewis gunner in WW1. Our mother later told us that grandma had been known to have left our grandparents backdoor unlocked at nightime - it's quite probable that she hadn't really given-up hope.
Her and grandad's three-year-old son, Wilfred, succumbed to sustained injuries, caused by a fireside accident; his 'curl' remains in my possession, and is shown here.
Another photo to treasure of grandparents Philip, and I must say from the photos you have posted on here of yourself you do favour him. The story of your grandma keeping the door open for her son in the hope he'll come home, brings a lump to the throat, it's heartbreaking. The golden curl of a little toddler equally very sad.
Comparing Grandad's suit and flat cap with Jack Pye's attire on his photo - it looks almost like a uniform! All Grandads seemed to dress the same. That's how I remember my maternal grandad,although I don't have a photo of him. If modern day clothes could be superimposed on them they would look quite young. Your grandma has such a sweet face as well!
As a father of four I can't begin to imagine the heartbreak of losing a child in such tragic circumstance. Thank you for sharing Philip.
Hope that you're keeping well G.W. - haven't heard from you in quite a while.
Be near dear Lord , my pains too much ,
When I close my eyes I fear I’ll drop
in this moment my faith has gone
I pray to you to regain someone
But if they are chosen , what can I do
this beloved mine , I give to you
Well put-forward F.W. - You've got soul.
Philip,
Are you any relation to Marion Littler, born 1947, & her sister, Ruth, who was a couple of years older? Both lived in Billinge, initially at Brownlow, later Moss Road.
Helen.
I'm afraid the 'Littler sisters', whom you put forward, and I are of no relationship. But thanks for your query; and good luck in your search.
Thanks Philip,
Marion & I were bezzie mates until we went to different secondary schools in 1959. I know she worked for Pilks at some point. Would love to get in touch with her!
Thanks Philip,
Marion & I were bezzie mates until we went to different secondary schools in 1959. I know she worked for Pilks at some point. Would love to get in touch with her!