In December 2004 I decided to look for my Grandfather's sister's Elizabeth and Mary Ann Nicholson. I decided to find my great grandmother's Death Certificate which I had on file. My grandfather James Nichohlson had signed the Death Certificate stating he was there when she died.  She died at 1 Barton Street so this was a clue to where Elizabeth her eldest daughter lived.  I then looked at the Lancashire BMD and found Elizabeth Nicholson married Hugh Mason in 1888. I then decided to look for Hugh Mason and family in the 1901 census.  I found them living at 1 Barton Street, Platt Bridge Hindley so I knew it was the right family. The family consisted of Elizabeth Mason aged 40 with husband Hugh aged 39 who was a Colliery Stoker above ground.  Thomas aged 12, Mary Ann aged 11 and Agnes aged 9.  I am now searching for ancestors of this family and will report any finds later.

Mary Ann was going to be a more difficult proposition.  She was the youngest child of John and Mary Ann Nicholson and was born in Tontine, Upholland.  I found her in Cinderford, Gloucestershire living with a lady called Agnes Donaldson who was a Salvation Army Officer.  I knew that Mary Ann had been in the Salvation Army and had a miniature harmonium which she took to prayer meetings etc. I knew she had died in 1931 in Carn Brea Cornwall but had no idea of her married name.  I then contacted the Rev. Mike Kippax who is the vicar at the Illogan church which is in Carn Brea. I sent him a photo I had of the cottage where she lived.  He has found the cottage and sent me a photo of the cottage as it is now.  I am now awaiting further new from the owners to see if they know who lived there in 1930. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mike for his help. I have tried several times to get help from the Salvation Army but was told they only find living people.

This is my research up to th January 2005.

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