Family notices in old newspapers are important because they provide essential details about individuals, relationships, and communities, offering a rich resource for genealogical research and insights into social history. Here is an example:
Gloucester Citizen (Thursday 8th December 1927):
BIRTHS, MARRIAGES AND DEATHS.
Notices of Births, Marriages and Deaths, In Memoriam Notices, Acknowledgements of Sympathy, etc., are charged at 1d (penny) per word, with a minimum of 18 words for 1s. 6d (one shilling and six pence).
The name and address of the sender must accompany each notice.
DEATHS.
FOWLER—December 6th, at Ambervale, Leonard Stanley, Frederick Gilbert Fowler, aged 78 years. Funeral at Leonard Stanley Church on Saturday, at 2.30.
KEMMETT—December 6th, at 40, Oxebode Lane, Gloucester, John, husband of the late Margaret Kemmett, aged 78 years. At rest.
LANGFORD—December 5th, William Woodland, the beloved husband of M.A. Langford, of 3, Bedford Street, Gloucester, aged 60 years.
We cannot, Lord, Thy purpose see,
But all is well that is done by Thee.
TANDY—The funeral of the late Noah Tandy, of the Adgen Vaults, Northgate Street, will take place on Saturday next, December 10th (leaving not on Monday as previously announced), leaving house at 11.30 a.m.; service St. Mary de Lode Church 12 o’clock.
VINSON—December 8th, at “Meadow Garth,” Pembury Road, Gloucester, Martha, widow of the late Samuel James Vinson, iron merchant, Gloucester.
WHILEY—December 6th (unexpectedly in sleep, after a short illness), at 16, Sinnington Road, Gloucester, Maud Whiley, aged 56 years.
IN MEMORIAM.
KNIGHT—In ever-loving memory of our dear son and brother, Frederick Knight, of 19, Alma Place, who died December 8th, 1926, age 24 years.
God is good, He gave us strength
To bear the heavy cross;
He is the only one that knows
How bitter was our loss.
Ever in the thoughts of his Mother and Father, Sisters and Brothers, and Sister-in-law and Brothers-in-law.
KNIGHT—In loving memory of Frederick Knight, who died December 8th, 1926. Ever remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Vaughan and Family.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.
Mrs. George Ely and family wish to thank all friends for kindness shown to them in their sad bereavement, also for floral tributes sent.
The sons and daughters of the late Mrs. W. Folkes wish to thank all neighbours and friends for sympathy shown during their sad bereavement, also Mr. E. Goodwin.
The family of the late Mrs. Woodward wish to thank all friends and neighbours for their sympathy and extreme kindness shown to them during the late Mrs. Woodward’s illness and all who sent floral tributes.
Mr. Pinch and Mr. and Mrs. Evans and family, of 67, Bloomfield Road, desire to thank all friends and neighbours for their sympathy shown in their recent bereavement; also the doctors, matron and staff at Standish House for their untiring attention and great kindness during the late Mrs. Pinch’s long illness, and all those who sent floral tributes.
Importance for Historians and Genealogists:
- Genealogical Data: These notices provide vital information such as names, relationships, addresses, dates, and places of death, which can help construct family trees or trace ancestry.
- Social Context: Details about the deceased’s professions, family relations, and community involvement reveal social history, living conditions, and occupational trends.
- Cultural Practices: Funeral arrangements, memorial phrasing, and acknowledgements offer insights into customs, religious beliefs, and societal values of the time.
- Accuracy of Records: Published notices often serve as primary sources, cross-referencing official records like birth, marriage, and death certificates.
- Local Histories: Address details and acknowledgements can map historical neighbourhoods, revealing migration patterns or changes in communities over time.
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