Mel Rogerson writes: Thanks for compiling such a wonderful website. I’ve recently discovered that one of my ancestors was a gamekeeper at Errwood Hall throughout the 1800s and wondered whether you have the dates for the staff photos? Many thanks – Mel.
This photo of estate workers is dated 1880. Good luck with your research. David.
Mel later emailed to say: I’ve discovered that my ancestor was no longer working as a gamekeeper at this time (he had ‘retired’ to a farm in Strines). I’ve also since discovered that it was more likely that he worked for the Jodrells rather than the Grimshawes, although there could have been crossover at some point. Still very interesting though as we assumed that this branch of the family came from Northumbria, rather the High Peak, and this means that all my maternal and paternal lines now have a connection with Derbyshire.
I’m researching my family history. William Hulse (gamekeeper) I believe to be my g.g.g.g grandad. Still searching though, and this is how I came across this page. Then I saw a post from Mel, who I believe to be a Rogerson. My ancestry has a Hulse and Rogerson marriage (my grand parents) but believe that maybe another marriage as well. Any info that Dave or Mel may have would be great.
I recently completed my family history research and stumbled across Mel’s enquiry a few days ago. I too had discovered that one of my ancestors, William Hulse, had been a gamekeeper on the Errwood estate. According to census records William, along with his wife, Mary, and family was living in Castege Cottages in 1841. By 1851 the family had moved to Goytsbridge Farm and by 1861 had moved to 2 Lodge Wood Cottages where they were still resident in 1871. Lodge Wood Cottages were just north of Taxal Church and I think are now known as Lodge Cottages.
After the death of his wife, Mary, in 1873 William moved in with his son, William and lived on Strines Road, Marple. William himself died in 1892 and was buried with Mary at Taxal Church. There are a number of similarities with Mel Rogerson’s story so it is quite possible we share an ancestor. I had also seen the photo of the Estate Workers and wondered if one was William but clearly he would have retired by 1880. If Mel gets to read this then she may wish to visit the grave of Mary & William which can be found close to the north wall of the Church.
Thank you again David for a very interesting and informative website (you may recall I submitted the photo of the Ghostly Bride a couple of years ago).