Saturday, February 28, 2015

2.3.4.5. Jeanie Crichton (c1898-unknown)

Jeanie Crichton was born about 1898 in Ireland to Peter Alexander and Agnes (McClure) Crichton. The couple had at least two children in Ireland before moving to Scotland some time between 1899 and 1903. Jeanie's father worked as a brusher at a colliery. A brusher removed parts of the roof or pavement, usually by blasting, in order to heighten the underground mine roadways.

When the 1911 census was enumerated the Crichton family lived at 3 Udston Road in Hamilton. Jeanie was listed as Jane and attended school. Jean or Jeanie is usually a diminutive for Jane, but this is the only record I have found where her name was listed as Jane.

On 31 December 1917 Jeanie married Robert Riddell at the Manse in Burnbank according to the forms of the Church of Scotland. She was 20 years old, lived in Dykehead Rows, and worked as a farm servant.

It is possible that Jeanie arrived in the United States about 1928. A Jeannie Crichton was listed on the 1930 U.S. federal census, which was enumerated on 18 April, and lived with an uncle, Andrew Crichton, and his family. This person was born about 1896. Her uncle lived in Detroit.

A Mrs. Jeannie Riddell, born about 1897, travelled from New York City to Scotland aboard the Anchor Line's S/S Transylvania and arrived in Glasgow on 25 May 1930. If she had been in the United States for two years, perhaps the enumerator assumed her surname was the same as her uncle's?

The last definitive information I have on Jeanie (Crichton) Riddell was her marriage registration. The rest cannot yet be proved.

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1930 US Federal Census, Census Place: Detroit, Wayne, Michigan; Roll: 1064; Page: 55A; ED: 0821; Image 1031.0
1911 Scotland Census, 02/04/1911 Crichton, Peter (Census 1911 647/00 036/00 020)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1918 Riddell, Robert - Crichton, Jeanie (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0003)
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1930 Riddell, Jeannie

2.3.4.5. Robert Riddell (1891-unknown)

Robert Riddell was born on 31 October 1891 at 19 Lamb Street in Hamilton to Robert and Catherine (McCormick) Riddell. In 1901 he lived with the family at 5 Craig Row in Auchentibber, a small hamlet near Blantyre.  By 1911 he was working as a coal miner and lived with his family in Kirkland Rows in Burnbank.

On 31 December 1917 Robert married Jeanie Crichton at the Manse in Burnbank. He was 26 years old at the time of their marriage, lived at Dykehead Rows and worked as a coal miner. He rented a house from William Boyd, a tailor, in Dykehead Rows for 6 pounds, 10 shillings in 1920.

That is the last piece of definitive information I can find for Robert Riddell. I am fairly sure he did not die in Scotland and think he emigrated some time after 1920.

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1901 Scotland Census Parish: Blantyre; ED: 1; Page: 10; Line: 13; Roll: CSSCT1901_245
1911 Scotland Census, 02/04/1911 Riddell, Robert (Census 1911 647/00 036/00 011)
1920 Scotland Valuation Rolls, 1920 Riddell, Robert (Valuation Rolls VR107 /347 / 202)
Scotland, Select Births and Baptisms, 1564-1950, 1891 Riddell, Robert
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1891 Riddell, Robert (Statutory Births 647/00 1101)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1918 Riddell, Robert - Crichton, Jeanie (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0003)

Friday, February 27, 2015

2.3.4.4.2.1. Hamilton Riddell (1937- )

Hamilton Riddell was born on 24 January 1937 at the County Hospital in Bellshill, Scotland, to Malcolm and Margaret (Kerr) Riddell. He was born five weeks after their marriage. His father was a byre-man, a man who raises or tends to cows.

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Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Births in Scotland (1937 Riddell, Hamilton)

2.3.4.4.2. Margaret Kerr (1918-1987)

Margaret Kerr was born on 27 December 1918 at 19 George Street in Hamilton to William and Catherine Kay (Bulloch) Kerr. Margaret's father was a coal miner.

Margaret married Malcolm Riddell on 11 December 1936 at South Manse in Hollandbush. She was 17 years old, worked as a farm servant and lived at 14 Eddlewood Rows. Malcolm and Margaret had one known son.

Margaret (Kerr) Riddell died on 18 April 1987 at Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride of myocardial infarction. She was 68 years old at the time of her death. She and her husband lived at 15 Annsfield Road in Hamilton before she was admitted to the hospital.

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Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1936 Riddell, Malcolm, Kerr, Margaret (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0357)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an Entry from the Register of Births in Scotland (1918 Kerr, Margaret)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an Entry from the Register of Deaths in Scotland 6472365 CE

2.3.4.4.2. Malcolm Riddell (1917-1988)

Malcolm Riddell was born on 14 June 1917 at 11 High Dykehead Rows in Hamilton to Hamilton McCormick and Elizabeth (Rooney) Riddell. His father was a coal miner.

Malcolm married Margaret Kerr on 11 December 1936 at the South Manse in Hollandbush according to the forms of the Church of Scotland. He was 19 years old at the time of his marriage, lived at 40 William Drive in Eddlewood and worked as a farm laborer. The couple had one known son.

Malcolm Riddell died on 13 March 1988 at Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive airways disease. He was 70 years old at the time of his death, lived at 15 Annsfield Road in Hamilton and was a retired security guard. His wife, Margaret, died the year previous.

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Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1936 Riddell, Malcolm - Kerr, Margaret (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0357)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Births in Scotland, 6472380 CE
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Deaths in Scotland, 6472364 CE

Thursday, February 26, 2015

2.3.4.4.1. Susan Curwood Donald Carnihan (1913-1981)

Susan Curwood Donald Carnihan was born on 11 December 1913 at 217 Low Waters in Hamilton to Thomas Donald and Susan Curwood Carnihan. Susan's father was a coal miner.

On 30 December 1938 Susan married Robert Riddell at the Cadzow Manse in Hamilton. She was 25 years old, lived at 14 Strathaven Road, and worked as an ice cream shop assistant. It is not known if the couple had children.

Susan Riddell died 16 January 1981 at her home on 34 Forest Avenue in Hamilton of left ventricular failure and ischemic heart disease. She was 67 years old at the time of her death. Her husband, Robert  died five years later.

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Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1913 Carnihan, Susan Curwood D (Statutory Births 647/00 1538)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1938 Riddell, Robert - Carnihan, Susan C D (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0319)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Deaths in Scotland 6514548 CE

2.3.4.4.1. Robert Riddell (1912-1986)

Robert Riddell was born on 15 October 1912 at 13 George Street, Hamilton, Scotland. He is believed to be the eldest child of Hamilton McCormick and Elizabeth (Rooney) Riddell.

He married Susan Curwood Donald Carnihan on 30 December 1938 at the Cadzow Manse in Hamilton. At the time of their marriage Hamilton was a 26-year-old general laborer who lived at 40 William Drive in Eddlewood. It is not known if Robert and Susan had children.

Robert Riddell died on 16 December 1986 at Stonehouse Hospital in Stonehouse of dehydration and a cancerous tumor of an unknown location. He lived at 34 Forest Avenue in Hamilton at the time of his death and Robert was a retired electrical factory laborer.

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Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1912 Riddell, Robert (Statutory Births 647/00 1390)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1938 Riddell, Robert - Carnihan Susan C D (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0319)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Registration of Deaths in Scotland 6510735 CE


Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Children of Hamilton McCormick and Elizabeth (Rooney) Riddell

2.3.4.4.1. Robert Riddell (1912-1986)

The lives of Robert Riddell and his wife, Susan Curwood Donald Carnihan, will be covered in future posts.

2.3.4.4.2. Malcolm Riddell (1917-1988)

The lives of Malcolm Riddell and his wife, Margaret Kerr, will be covered in future posts.

2.3.4.4. Elizabeth Rooney (1892-1969)

Elizabeth Rooney was born on 5 February 1892 in Hamilton, Scotland, to John and Elizabeth (Loughran) Rooney. Her father was a coal miner born in Ireland and her mother in Coatbridge, Scotland. The family lived at 27 Dykehead Row in Hamilton in 1901 and at 41 Whitehill Road in 1911.

On 29 December 1911 Elizabeth married Hamilton McCormick Riddell at the Manse in the Burnbank area of Hamilton parish. She was a 19-year-old dairy maid and he was a 22-year-old coal miner. Elizabeth listed her residence at the time of her marriage as 5 Dykehead Row. The couple had two known sons.

Elizabeth died at her home on 17 Parks View in Hamilton on 7 December 1969 of hypostatic pneumonia and cardiac failure. She was 71 years old and had been a widow for nine years.

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1901 Scotland Census, 31/03/1901 Rooney, Elizabeth (Census 1901 647/00 031/00 006)
1911 Scotland Census, 02/04/1911 Rooney, Elizabeth (Census 1911 647/00 023/00 040)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1892 Rooney, Elizabeth (Statutory Births 647/00 0174)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1912 Riddell, Hamilton - Rooney, Elizabeth (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0029)
Scotland Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Deaths in Scotland 6472389CE

2.3.4.4. Hamilton McCormick Riddell (1889-1960)

Hamilton McCormick Riddell was born on 18 July 1889 at 10 John Street in the Greenfield area of Hamilton parish, Scotland. He was the fourth child, third born after their marriage, of Robert and Catherine (McCormick) Riddell. When the 1891 census was enumerated the family lived on 67 Glasgow Road in Hamilton. Ten years later, at 5 Craig Row in Auchentibber, a small hamlet, in Blantyre parish. Hamilton attended school.

By 1911 the family lived at Kirkhead Rows in Hanilton parish and Hamilton Riddell was a coal miner. He married Elizabeth Rooney on 29 December 1911 at the Manse in Burnbank area of Hamilton parish. Hamilton was 22 years old, worked as a miner, and lived with his family at 16 Dykehead Row at the time of his marriage. Hamilton and Elizabeth had two known sons, Robert and Malcom Riddell.

In 1920 he rented a house in Dykehead Row from William Boyd, a tailor, for 4 pounds, 10 shillings a year. His brothers, Robert and William, also rented houses in the Rows that same year. By 1925 Hamilton rented 27 Udston Square in Hamilton for an annual rent of 3 pounds 9 shillings.

Hamilton Riddell died on 13 July 1960 at Strathclyde Hospital in Motherwell of pyonephrosis (an infection of the renal collecting system), and broncho-pneumonia. He was 70 years old at the time of his death, a retired coal miner, and lived at 17 Parks View in Hamilton before he was admitted to the hospital.

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1891 Scotland Census, Parish: Hamilton; ED: 18; Page:4; Line: 3; Roll: CSSCT1891_310
1901 Scotland Census, Parish: Blantyre; ED: 1; Page: 10; Line: 12; Roll: CSSCT1901_245
1911 Scotland Census, 02/04/1911 Riddell, Robert (Census 1911 647/00 036/00 011)
1920 Scotland Valuation Rolls, 1920 Riddell, Robert (Valuation Rolls VR107 / 347 / 202)
1925 Scotland Valuation Rolls, 1925 Riddell Hamilton (Valuation Rolls VR107 / 407 / 204)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1889 Riddell, Hamilton McCorm (Statutory Births 647/00 0711)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1912 Riddell, Hamilton - Rooney, Lizzie (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0029)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1960 Riddell, Hamilton McCorm (Statutory Deaths 639/00 0246)

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

2.3.4.3.6.1. Robert Bruce Diplock (1947-1967)

Robert Bruce Diplock was born on 11 September 1947 in Nanaimo to Alfred Henry Robert and Margaret (Richmond) Diplock. He was one of six children born to the couple. What we know about Robert comes almost entirely from his death certificate.

He was 19 years old, a student at Simon Fraser University, and lived at 995 North Terminal Avenue with his wife Lorraine. On 29 April 1967 Robert committed suicide by hanging himself with a rope. He father was the informant on his death certificate.

Simon Frazer University had its main campus in Burnaby, British Columbia. It is a public university was established two years before Robert's death.

Simon Frazer University in 1967; photograph courtesy of Wikipedia

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"Simon Frazer Universtiy," Wikipedia
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1967-09-005970
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1967 Diplock, Robert Bruce

Alfred Henry Robert (Bob) Diplock Obituary

DIPLOCK, Alfred Henry Robert (Bob), passed away peacefully at home on October 29, 2002. Born in Camper, Manitoba, August 16, 1922, Bob was the youngest son of Alfred and Eliza Diplock and in 1935 the family moved to Nanaimo. He is predeceased by his oldest son Robert Bruce Diplock, his brother George Diplock and his sisters Myrtle Clark, Gladys Sloan and Coral Major. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 56 years, Margaret (nee Richmond), his daughters: Sandra (George) Coburn, Coral (Dave) Hanna, his sons Alfred Diplock, George (Patti) Diplock, Daniel (Catherine) Diplock, his 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, his sisters Miriam Stevens, Fran Dykes, Hazel Hall, and by numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bob was a war vet and member of the Branch 10 Legion. He joined the army in 1942 and served in Canada, England, Sicily, Italy, and the European Theatre as a radio operator in the Royal Canadian Engineers 1st division. As a highly respected member of the community and a lover of all sports, Bob coached and sponsored juvenile soccer and umpired numerous local softball teams for many years. Bob was well known on the Island for his talent and creativity as a masonry contractor, and retired in 1983. No service will be held by request. Donations in Bob's name may be made to the Salvation Army or charity of choice.

As published in the Nanaimo Daily Bulletin.

2.3.4.3.6. Alfred Henry Robert Diplock (1922-2002)

Arthur Henry Robert Diplock was born on 16 August 1922 in Sanford, Manitoba, Canada, to Alfred Henry and Lylie (Carter) Diplock. His parents were both born in England and had immigrated to Canada before Arthur's birth.

Arthur married Margaret Richmond in November 1946. In 1949 the couple lived in Nanaimo and Arthur worked as a general laborer. By 1962 they lived at 1629 Townsite Road in Nanaimo and Arthur was a brick layer. They continued to live at the same address through at least 1974. The couple had six children.

Arthur died on on 29 October 2002 in Nanaimo, British Columbia.

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Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1949 Diplock, Alfred
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1962 Diplock, Alfred
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1963 Diplock, Alfred
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1965 Diplock, Alfred
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1974 Diplock, Alfred
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1974 Diplock, Alfred, Jr.
Global, Obituary Daily Times Index, 1995-Current,  abt 2002, Diplock, Afred Henry

Margaret (Richmond) Diplock Obituary

DIPLOCK, Margaret (nee Richmond), on July 8, 2004, Margaret Diplock, our beloved mother, grandma, great-grandma, passed away peacefully with her family by her side. Predeceased by her loving husband Bob in October 2002 and by her eldest son, Bruce in April 1968. Margaret is survived by her two daughters Sandra (George) Coburn, Coral (Dave) Hanna, three sons, Alfred, George (Patricia), Daniel (Catherine), eleven grandchildren, four great grandchildren, her sister Kate and brother Roy.

A life-long resident of Nanaimo, Margaret was born on June 26, 1922, the youngest daughter of Thomas and Katherine Richmond. In her early years Margaret attended Northfield School and went on to take courses in dress design and automotive mechanics. Margaret enrolled in the Canadian Women's Army Corps in January of 1942 and served in Canada and the United Kingdom until being discharged in February, 1946. She married her childhood sweetheart Bob in November of that year and settled down to raise a family of six children. By Bob's side, Margaret ran a successful company, Diplock Masonry, until retiring in 1983. Margaret enjoyed her family, friends, gardening, managing the Diplock Masonry Youth Soccer team and the simple pleasures of life. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. A memorial service to celebrate Margaret's life will be held on July 17, 2004 at 1 p.m. at First Memorial Funeral Services, 1720 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, BC. Donations can be made in Margaret's memory to a charity of your choice.

As published in the Nanaimo Daily Bulletin.

2.3.4.3.6. Margaret Richmond (1922-2004)

Margaret Richmond was born in 1922 in Nanaimo to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. She was their sixth and youngest known child.

Margaret and her mother, Catherine (Riddell) Richmond, returned to Scotland on 10 June 1928 aboard the S/S Melita, which sailed from Montreal. They traveled with Thomas' brother, John, and his wife Jessie. John had immigrated to Canada in 1923. The wife of Catherine's older brother, Robert, died in 1925. He immigrated to Canada in August 1928 and Catherine stayed with his children until they all went to Canada aboard S/S Montcalm. The party, including 4-year-old, Margaret, arrived at the port of Quebec on 21 September 1928.

In 1945 she lived with her parents in Quartway and served in the Canadian armed forces.

Margaret married Alfred Henry Robert Diplock in November 1946. By 1962 the couple had moved to 1629 Townsite Road. Alfred worked as bricklayer. They remained at that address through at least 1974. The couple had six children. One was listed on the the 1974 voters list as Alfred, Jr. Another son, Robert Bruce Diplock, died in 1967.

Alfred Henry Robert Diplock died on 29 October 2002 and Margaret (Richmond) Diplock, on 14 July 2004. Both died in Nanaimo.

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Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1928 Richmond, Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1945 Richmond, Miss Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1949 Diplock, Mrs. Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1962 Diplock, Mrs. Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1963 Diplock, Mrs. Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1974 Diplock, Alfred, Jr.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1865-1935, 1974 Diplock, Mrs. Margaret
Global, Obituary Daily Times Index, 1995-Current,  2004, Diplock, Margaret
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1928 Richmond, Margaret
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1928 Richmond, Margaret

Monday, February 23, 2015

2.3.4.3.5.1. Roxburgh Lyle Richmond (1952-1985)

Roxburgh Lyle Richmond was born on 15 November 1952 in Port Alberni, British Columbia, to Roxburgh and Margaret Louise (Thomas) Richmond. 

All we know about Roxburgh Lyle is from his death certificate. He died on 7 June 1985 at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver. Before his hospitalization, he lived at 78-1385 West 15th Avenue in Vancouver. He was 32 years old, single, and worked as a make-up artist in the entertainment industry.

Roxburgh died of respiratory failure and pneumocystis carinii herpes pneumonia, which is a condition often seen in people with compromised immune systems. The contributing cause of death was acquired immune deficiency syndrome, or AIDS.


I was surprised to see AIDS listed as a cause on a death certificate in 1985. That year in Vancouver, 63 cases were reported, AIDS Vancouver opened its first office, the Red Cross began testing their blood products, and Rock Hudson openly admitted to having AIDS. 1985 was an early time in our fight against the disease. The Pasteur Institute did not isolate the HIV virus until 1983.

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30 30 Campaign, AIDS Vancouver
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1985-09-010115
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990 Richmond, Richmond Lyle

Roxburgh (Roy) Richmond Obituary

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved father, Roxburgh (Roy) Richmond, on Sunday, November 25, 2012, at the age of 92 years.

He was predeceased by his wife, Peggy, of 60 years and son, Roy Jr. He leaves behind his daughters; Susan (Richard) Chambers, Barbara (Graham) Cranage, Linda (Mark) Hemmingsen, Cathy (Don) Whyte, sons; Gary (Judy) Richmond and David Richmond. Grandchildren; Art (Inge) Chambers, Steve (Jill) Chambers, Lance (Brittany) Chambers, Chrissy (Bob) Souchuck, Laura (Darren) Moore, Angela Richmond (Gord), Randy (Renee) Rusjan, Renee (Brent) Reimer, Robin (Trisha) Rusjan, Mike (Pauline) Richmond, Dwayne Richmond, Kris Hemmingsen, Darlene Hemmingsen (Dave), Shane (Hari) Whyte, Corey (Gloria) Whyte, and Gail Wolverton, 28 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren, plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Roy was born in Nanaimo, but lived all his married life in Port Alberni. He will be remembered for his passion and his Harley Davidson motorcycle, and the many trips he took with friends. He loved to hunt, fish and camp with family at Bear Lake. He was a jack of all trades, from being a plumber, owning a sawmill, to maintenance man for the Beaver Creek Water Board.

A special thanks to home support and the nursing staff at the Palliative Care Unit at WCGH. A special, heartfelt hanks, to his personal caregiver, Cindy Parkinson, for her care and attention.

Cremation has taken place and a "Celebration of Roy's Life" will be held at a later date.

As published in the Alberni Valley Times.

2.3.43.5. Roxburgh Richmond (c1920- )

Roxburgh Richmond was born about 1920 in Nanaimo to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. He was their fifth child and was not yet born when the family returned from a visit to Scotland in 1920. He was enumerated with his family when the 1921 census was conducted. Roxburgh likely married Margaret Louise Thomas as they are the parents listed on the death certificate of son, Roxburgh Lyle Richmond. Margaret was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Nothing more is known about Margaret.

Roxburgh and Margaret Louise (Thomas) Richmond lived on 8558 Sterling Arm Drive in Port Alberni, British Columbia, at the time of their son's death in 1985.

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1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Second World War Book of Remembrance

Private John Patterson Wilson was listed on page 227 of the Second World War Book of Remembrance:


Moro River Canadian War Cemetery


Moro River Canadian War Cemetery; photograph courtesy of the
Commonwealth War Graves Commission

The Allies invaded the Italian mainland in September 1943. Their objectives were to draw German troops from the Russian front and France, where an invasion was planned the following year. At first progress through southern Italy was rapid, although there was resistance. With the Germans positioned defensively along their Gustav Line, fighting became more bitter. The 1st Canadian Division crossed the Moro River on 6 December and took Ortona on the 28th after bitter fighting and stiff resistance. John Patterson Wilson was killed on 10 December 1943. He was among 500 fatal battle casualties suffered by the Canadian division.

The Moro River Canadian War Cemetery contains 1,615 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War.

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"Moro River Canadian War Cemetery," Commonwealth War Graves Commission

John Patterson Wilson Headstone

The headstone for John Patterson Wilson, who was killed in Italy during World War II, is located at the Moro River Canadian War Cemetery in Ortona, Italy. The photograph was generously shared by Find a Grave member Margaret Rose.

Private John Patterson Wilson headstone, photograph courtesy of Find a Grave member
Margaret Rose

2.3.4.3.3. John Patterson Wilson (c1913-1943)

John Patterson Wilson was born on 12 July 1913 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, to Mark and Agnes (Patterson) Wilson. His father was born in Scotland and his mother in Nova Scotia, Canada.

On 28 March 1932 John married Catherine Richmond at the Presbyterian Manse on 300 Franklin Street in Nanaimo. He was 19 years old, lived in the Northfield area of Nanaimo, and worked as a truck driver.

During World War II he served with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. It is not known when John joined or was drafted, but the Seaforth Highlanders were among the first Canadian units to deploy, crossing the Atlantic in December 1939 to England. They did not see action in Europe until 1943 and were part of Operation Husky, or the invasion of Sicily. When they crossed the Straits of Messina into Italy the unit found themselves pursuing the Germans north.

The Germans dug in at their Gustav line. From 6 to 22 December the Canadian 1st Division, including the Seaforth Highlanders, advanced about three miles from the Moro River to the small town of Ortona. The town's narrow streets led to brutal street fighting. The battle was so intense that it was nicknamed "little Stalingrad."

John Patterson Wilson was killed in action or died from wounds on 10 December 1943 at the age of 31.

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Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1932-09-404399
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1932 Wilson, John Patterson - Richmond Catherine
Italy, Find A Grave Index, 1800s-Current, FAG Memorial #56518216
UK, Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Commemorative Certificate, Wilson, John Patterson, K/62658

Catherine (Riddell) Richmond and Catherine (Richmond) Wilson Headstone

The headstone for Catherine (Riddell) Richmond, wife of Thomas Richmond, and their daughter, Catherine (Richmond) Wilson is located in the Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery. The photograph was taken by volunteers from the Canadian Headstones organization.

Headstone of Catherine (Riddell) Richmond and her daughter, Catherine
(Richmond) Wilson; courtesy of Canadian Headstones

2.3.4.3.3. Catherine Richmond (1913-2007)

Catherine Richmond was born on 12 July 1913 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. Her father was a coal miner.

On 4 September 1919 Catherine, her parents and siblings arrived in Glasgow, Scotland aboard the S/S Cassandra. They had sailed from Montreal and were going to Auchentibber to visit relatives. On 27 May 1920 Catherine, her mother and siblings boarded the S/S Saturnia in Glasgow to return to Canada. They arrived in Quebec on 5 June 1920 and took the train to Nanaimo.

She married John Patterson Wilson on 28 March 1932 at the Presbyterian Manse on 300 Franklin Street in Nanaimo. She was 18 years old and lived in the Northfield area of Nanaimo. Her husband served with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada and was killed in Italy in 1943 during World War II. Catherine never remarried. It is not known if the couple had children.

In 1945 Catherine (Richmond) Wilson was listed as a widow in the voters lists and lived in Quarterly, a rural area of Nanaimo. The 1962 voters list also included a Mrs. Catherine Wilson, who was a housekeeper and lived on 2365 Bowen Road. At the same address was a Laurence J. Wilson, laborer. If this is the correct Catherine (Richmond) Wilson, Laurence could be a son. I do not know for sure, however.

Catherine died on 9 April 2007 and is buried beside her mother at the Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery.

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"Headstone of Catherine (Riddell) Richmond and her daughter, Catherine (Richmond) Wilson," Canadian Headstones
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1932-09-404399
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1932 Wilson, John Patterson - Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, Rolls: T-14939-T-15248
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1920 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1945 Wilson, Catherine
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Wilson, Catherine
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1919 Richmond, Catherine
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, Catherine

Saturday, February 21, 2015

Thomas Richmond and William and Edna May (Simpson) Richmond Headstone

The headstone for Thomas Richmond, his son, William, and William's wife, Edna May Simpson is located in the Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery. Volunteers of the Canadian Headstones organization provided the photograph.

Headstone of Thomas Richmond and William and Edna May (Simpson)
Richmond, Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery, photograph courtesy of
Canadian Headstones

Edna May (Simpson) Richmond Obituary

RICHMOND, Edna May Richmond, born on June 24, 1912 in Nanaimo, BC, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2000 in Nanaimo, BC. She was predeceased by her loving husband Bill in 1994. Edna is survived by her loving family; five children, thirteen grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, four sisters, three brothers, numerous nice and nephews, other family and good friends.

Born and raised in Nanaimo, Edna and Bill moved to Port Alberni where they raised their family on Pleasant Road. She was a homemaker and devoted mother throughout her life. She returned to Nanaimo in 1998 and resided at the Nanaimo Travellers Lodge. Edna was a member of the St. Andrew's United Church in Port Alberni and worked tirelessly with the Girl Guides in the Alberni Valley for many years.

A celebration of Edna's Life will be held at Sands Funeral Chapel, One Newcastle Avenue, Nanaimo, BC, on Monday February 14, 2000 at 1:00 PM, with Reverend Mas Iwasawa officiating. A Reception will follow the Service. In lieu of flowers, for those so desiring, donations in memory of Edna, may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

As published in the Nanaimo Daily News or Nanaimo Daily Bulletin on 2 October 2000.

2.3.4.3.2. Edna May Simpson (1912-2000)

Edna May Simpson was born in 1912 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, to David Henry and Sarah Hannah (Frears) Simpson. She was the younger sister of Sarah Jane Simpson, who married Robert Richmond in early 1934.

On 7 July 1934 Edna married William Richmond at St. Paul's Church in Nanaimo. She was 22 years old, lived at 5 Acres in Nanaimo. William and Edna May (Simpson) Richmond had five children. No voters lists were found for Edna.

According to her headstone, Edna May (Simpson) Richmond died in 2000 and was interred beside her husband at the Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery.

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"Thomas Richmond and William and Edna May (Simpson) Richmond Headsonte," Canadian Headstones
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1934-09-420400
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1934 Richmond, William - Simpson, Edna May

2.3.4.3.2. William Richmond (1911-1994)

William Richmond was born in 1911 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. He was their second child and their first born in Canada.

On 4 September 1919 William, his parents and siblings arrived in Glasgow, Scotland aboard the S/S Cassandra. They had sailed from Montreal and were going to Auchentibber to visit relatives. On 27 May 1920 William, his mother and siblings boarded the S/S Saturnia in Glasgow to return to Canada. They arrived in Quebec on 5 June 1920 and took the train to Nanaimo.

On 7 July 1934 William married Edna May Simpson at St. Paul's Church in Nanaimo. William was 22 years old and worked as a farm laborer. Edna was also 22 years old and worked as a domestic.

St. Paul's Anglican Church, Nanaimo c 1886; image courtesy of the Canada
Library and Archives

William died in 1994 and is buried in Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery and shares a headstone with his wife and father.

_______________
"St. Paul's Anglican Church, Canada Library and Archives
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 30; Family No: 316
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1934-09-420400
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1934 Richmond, William - Simpson, Edna May
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, 1920 Richmond, William
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1920 Richmond, William
UK, Incoming Passengers Lists, 1878-1960, 1919 Richmond, William
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, William

Friday, February 20, 2015

2.3.4.3.1.1. Alec Walter Richmond (c1935-1978)

Alec Walter Richmond was born on 25 December 1934, Canada, where his parents lived their entire married lives.

In 1962, Alec was married to Shirley Stadelbauer, lived on 1720 Bowen Road in Nanaimo, and worked as a baker. Shirley worked as a clerk. Ten years later the couple lived on 481 McKay Avenue in Nanaimo and Alec continued working as a baker and Shirley was a secretary. In 1974 the couple lived at 130 Adam Street in Nanaimo. No profession was listed for Alec, but Shirley worked as a stenographer.

Alec Walter Richmond died 2 November 1978 at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital in Nanaimo, Canada. The immediate cause of death was ventricular fibrillation. Contributing factors were hyperkalemia, or high potassium in one's blood, renal failure. He'd been a diabetic for over 20 years prior to his death.

_______________
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1978-09-016485
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1978, Richmond, Alec Walter
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Richmond, Alec
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Richmond, Alex
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1974 Richmond, Alec

Sarah "Sadie" Jane (Simpson) Richmond Obituary

RICHMOND, Sara, (Sadie) native daughter of Nanaimo, born January 31, 1914 passed away on April 11, 2001. She is predeceased by husband Bob in November 1971 and one son Alec in November 1978. She will be lovingly remembered by: son Roy (Norma), daughters; Donna (Gordon) Munroe, Kathleen (Jim) Russell, grandchildren; Mary (Ross) Desprez, Danny (Nikki) and their children Jordie and Derek Richmond, David (Cheree) Richmond, Lisa (Michael) Higgins, and Karen Russell. Three brothers; Dick (Lottie), David (Mildred), Darwin (Jacquie) Simpson, four sisters; Isabelle Wallace, Dora White, Eleanor Rafter and Ethel (Ole) Sorenson.

A service of remembrance for Sadie will be held on Wednesday April 18, 2001 2:00 PM at Sands Funeral Chapel, One Newcastle Avenue, Nanaimo, BC. Flowers declined, for those so desiring donations in her memory may be made to the Nanaimo Travellers Lodge.

Loving and kind in all
her ways,
Upright and just, to the
end of her days;
Sincere and true in her
heart and mind,
Beautiful memories
she left behind.

As published in the Nanaimo Daily News or Nanaimo Daily Bulletin 6 April 2001.

2.3.4.3.1. Sarah Jane Simpson (1914-2001)

Sarah Jane Simpson was born on 31 January 1914 in Nanaimo, British Columbia, to David Henry and Sarah Hannah (Frears) Simpson. Her parents had immigrated to Canada from Cumberland, England, near the Scottish border.

She married Robert "Bob" Richmond on 29 March 1934 at 300 Franklin Street in Nanaimo. She was 25 years old, lived on 537 Hamilton Avenue and worked as a housekeeper at the time of her marriage. She and Bob had several children. Their son, Alec died in November 1978.

In 1949 the family lived on 1575 Waddington Road in Nanaimo and by 1962 they had moved to 1046 Moyse Crescent in Nanaimo where they lived the remainder of their married life.

Robert Richmond died after a logging accident in 1971. The last record for Sarah Jane (Simpson) Richmond is a 1972 voters list, which indicated she continued to live at 1046 Moyse Crescent in Nanaimo.

Sarah died on 1 April 2001.

_______________
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1934-09-420369
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1934 Richmond, Robert - Simpson, Sarah Jane
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1945 Richmond, Mrs. Sarah J.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1949 Richmond, Mrs. Sarah J.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Richmond, Mrs. Sarah J.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1965 Richmond, Mrs. Sarah J.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Richmond, Mrs. Sarah J.

Logging in Nanaimo

The Hudson Bay Company operated a sawmill near Nanaimo, which provided lumber for the area from the 1850s to 1905. Other sawmills began operations after the Hudson Bay sawmill shut down. Coal miners who often found themselves out of work as the demand for coal declined transitioned to industrial logging. Many men and women worked in logging, sawmill operations, log hauling ever since. Recently, this industry, too has been in decline but successful companies still operate.

By many measures, logging is one of the most dangerous occupations in Canada. The equipment is dangerous; the massive weights of trees overshadows workers all day long; the momentum of falling, sliding, or rolling logs is irresistible; the uneven or unstable terrain and often inclement weather increase the dangers; and the isolated locations of work sites are far away from medical care. At least two known ancestors died as a result of logging-related injuries.

Clearing a dense forest; photograph courtesy of the Bamberton
Historical Society

________________
"Clearing a Dense Forest," Bamberton Historical Society

Robert Richmond Death Certificate

The death certificate of Robert Richmond described what happened during the operation to fix his leg, broken as a result of a logging accident:

2.3.4.3.1. Robert Richmond (1909-1971)

Robert Richmond was born on 13 May 1910 at One Dykehead Row in Hamilton parish to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. He was their oldest child and the only one born in Scotland. His father had immigrated to Canada six months before his birth.  When Robert was three months old, he and his mother boarded the S/S Cassandra on 13 August 1910 at Glasgow. They arrived in Montreal on 22 August and took the train to Nanaimo, British Columbia, where they joined Robert's father. When the 1911 census was enumerated the family still lived in Nanaimo and Robert's father was a miner.

On 4 September 1919 Robert, his parents, and younger siblings, who were born in Canada, arrived in Glasgow aboard the S/S Cassandra. They were going to Auchentibber to visit family. Robert, his mother and siblings stayed in Scotland until 27 May 1920 when they boarded the Ancor Line's S/S Saturnia. The ship arrived in Quebec on 5 June 1920. Robert's father's brother, William, traveled to Nanaimo with them.

Robert married Sarah Jane Simpson on 29 March 1934 at 300 Franklin Street in Nanaimo. He was 24 years old at the time and worked as a fireman. Robert's brother would marry Sarah's sister, Edna May, later in 1934.

By 1945 Robert was working as a logger, which he continued to do for the rest of his life, and by 1953 the family lived at 1046 Moyse Crescent, where they lived until Robert's death in 1971.

1046 Moyse Crescent, Nanaimo; photograph courtesy of Google Maps

On 27 October 1971 Robert was involved in a logging accident, causing a severe fracture of his femur. He was hospitalized at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. On 22 November his doctors operated on his leg. During the operation he died of cardiac arrest. He was buried on 24 November at Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens in Cedar, British Columbia.

I do not know if Robert and Sarah Jane (Simpson) Richmond had children.

_______________
1911 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 2; Family No: 23
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 30; Family No: 316
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1971-09-016977
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1971 Richmond, Robert
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1934-09-420369
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1934 Richmond, Robert - Simpson, Sarah Jane
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, 1920 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1910 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1920 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1945 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1953 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1965 Richmond, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1968 Richmond, Robert
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1909 Richmond, Robert (Statutory Births 647/00 0851)
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1919 Richmond, Robert
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1910 Richmond, Robert
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, Robert

Thursday, February 19, 2015

Children of Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond

2.3.4.3.1. Robert Richmond (1909-1971)

The lives of Robert Richmond and his wife, Sarah Jane Simpson, will be covered in a future post.

2.3.4.3.2. William Richmond (1911-1994)

The lives of William Richmond and his wife, Edna May Simpson, will be covered in future posts.

2.3.4.3.3 Catherine Richmond (c1914-unknown)

The lives of Catherine Richmond and her husband, John Patterson Wilson, will be covered in future posts.

2.3.4.3.4. Thomas Richmond (c1918- )

Thomas Richmond was born about 1920 in Nanaimo to Thomas and Catherine (Riddell) Richmond. He was their fourth child. He accompanied the family on their 1919-1920 visit to Scotland to visit family and was enumerated with his family when the 1921 census was conducted. No other information has been found about Thomas Richmond.

S/S Saturnia, the ship Thomas, his siblings, and mother were sailing
when they returned to Canada; image courtesy of Del Campe

2.3.4.3.5. Roxburgh Richmond (c1920- )

The lives of Roxburgh Richmond and his wife, Margaret Louise Thomas will be covered in a future post.

2.3.4.3.6 Margaret Richmond (c1924- )

The lives of Margaret Richmond and her husband, Alfred Henry Robert Diplock, will be covered in a future post.

______________
"S/S Saturnia," Del Campe
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, 1920 Richmond, Thomas
Canada, Passengers Lists, 1865-1935, 1920 Richmond, Thomas
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, 1919 Richmond, Thomas
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, Thomas

Coal Mining in Nanaimo

In 1850 Snuneymuxw Chief Che-wich-i-kan, often referred to as Coal Tyee, took a canoe laden with coal to Victoria. It was of excellent quality. The chief lived in what is now known as Nanaimo. The area's coal deposits were the first known large deposits on the west coast of the Americas. The coal industry provided steady employment in the mines for the next 70 years. Men, women and families came from all parts of the globe in search of a better life, including Robert Riddell (1861-1944), who left Scotland in 1920 and settled in Nanaimo for "better conditions," according to his immigration arrival form.

Robert and some of his children and their families came to Nanaimo just as coal production began to decline and the world turned to petroleum for fuel. Layoffs became common. By the 1940s timber supplanted coal's place in the area economy.

Western Fuel Company No. 1 Mine, Nanaimo; photograph held by the
Chung Collection, University of British Columbia and courtesy of
Mid Island News
_______________
"Western Fuel Company No. 1 Mine, Nanaimo,"Chung Collection, University of British Columbia

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

2.3.4.3. Thomas Richmond (1886-1950)

Thomas Richmond was born on 23 March 1886 at 50 Flemington Road in Cambuslang parish, Scotland, to William and Mary (Smith) Richmond. His father was a coal miner. His mother was the informant on his birth registration and signed by making her mark. He grew up in Peasweep Rows in Auchentibber a small hamlet in Blantyre parish. By 15 years old he was working as a coal miner.

On 16 July 1909 Thomas married Catherine Riddell in Laighstonehall, Hamilton parish, according to the forms of the United Free Church. He was a coal miner and lived with his parents at 4 Peasweep Rows. His younger sister, Agnes, would marry Catherine's older brother, John, four years later.

Three months after their marriage, Thomas boarded the Canadian Pacific Steamships' S/S Empress of Britain on 19 November 1909 in Liverpool, England. The ship arrived in St. John, Canada, on 26 November. Thomas indicated to Canadian officials that he was traveling to Vancouver, British Columbia, and intended to do mining work for Canadian Pacific Railways. His wife and child joined him in Canada the next year. When the 1911 census was enumerated, Thomas' family lived in Nanaimo and he was a miner.

Canadian Pacific Steamships' S/S Empress of Britain; image courtesy
of Wikipedia

After 10 years in Canada, the family, which now included four children, traveled back to Scotland to visit family. They sailed from Montreal aboard the Anchor Line's S/S Cassandra and arrived in Glasgow on 4 September 1919. Thomas returned to Canada about six months later. He sailed from Glasgow on 31 March 1920 aboard the S/S Cassandra and arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on 10 April. His wife and children followed in May 1920. When the 1921 census was taken, Thomas and his family lived at 480 Irvine Street in Nanaimo; Thomas was still a miner. His father-in-law, who had become a widower six years earlier was living with them.

Some time between 1935 and 1950, Thomas left the mines and started working as a laborer for the BC Power Commission.

On 20 May 1950 Thomas was operated on at Nanaimo Hospital. They discovered rectal cancer as well as secondary metastasis in his abdomen. He died five days later having never left the hospital. He was buried on 29 May at the Nanaimo City Cemetery in Nanaimo.

_______________
"S/S Empress of Britain," Wikipedia
1891 Scotland Census, Parish: Blantyre; ED: 1; Page: 18; Line: 15; Roll: CSSCT1891_223
1901 Scotland Census, Parish: Blantyre; ED: 1; Page: 15; Line: 14; Roll: CSSCT1901_245
1911 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 2; Family No: 23
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140
Canada, British Columbia, Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1950-09-005693
Canada, British Columbia, Death Index, 1872-1990, 1950 Richmond, Thomas
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, Library and Archives of Canada; Rolls: T-14939-T-15248
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1909 Richmond, Thomas
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1920, Richmond, Thomas
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1935 Richmond, Thomas
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1886 Richmond, Thomas (Statutory Births 627/00 0122)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1909 Richmond, Thomas - Riddell, Catherine (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0179)
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, Class: BT26; Piece: 650; Item: 110
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1909 Richmond, Thomas
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, Thomas

2.3.4.3. Catherine Riddell (1888-1962)

Catherine Riddell was born on 6 February 1888 at Glenlee Cottages on Blantyre Road in Hamilton, Scotland. Her parents were Robert and Catherine (McCormick) Riddell and she was the second child born after their marriage. She lived with her family at 67 Glasgow Road in Hamilton in 1891 and at 5 Craig Row in the hamlet of Auchentibber in 1901.

On 13 May 1909 Catherine had a son she named Robert Richmond. Thomas Richmond, his father, was present when his birth was registered at the parish registrar's office.

On 16 July 1909 Catherine married Thomas Richmond at Laighstone Hall in Hamilton. She was 21 years old, worked as a domestic servant and lived with her family at One Dykehead Rows. Four years after her marriage her brother, John, married Thomas' sister, Agnes.

Four months Thomas and Catherine married, he immigrated to Canada.

Catherine and her infant son boarded the Donaldson Line's S/S Cassandra in Glasgow on 13 August 1910. They arrived in Montreal on 22 August and took a train to Nanaimo, British Columbia, joining Catherine's husband.

Nanaimo and Vancouver Island; map courtesy of Google Maps

When the 1911 Canadian census was taken, the Richmond family lived in Nanaimo. Little Robert was two years old. In 1919 the family traveled back to Montreal and boarded the S/S Cassandra on 4 September. They were returning to Auchentibber, Scotland, to visit family. Thomas and Catherine traveled with their four children. The youngest three had been born in Canada.

Thomas returned to Canada in March 1920, but Catherine stayed longer. She and the children boarded the S/S Saturnia in Glasgow on 27 May 1920 and arrived at the port of Quebec on 5 June. They took the train to back home to Nanaimo. Thomas' brother, William Richmond, and Catherine's father, Robert, traveled with them.

In 1921 the Richmond family lived at 480 Irvine Street in Nanaimo and their son, Roxburgh, had been born the previous year. Catherine's father, Robert, was living with them.

Catherine and her daughter, Margaret, returned to Scotland on 10 June 1928 aboard the S/S Melita, which sailed from Montreal. They traveled with Thomas' brother, John and his wife Jessie. John had immigrated to Canada in 1923. Catherine's older brother, Robert's, wife had died in 1925. He immigrated to Canada in August 1928 and Catherine stayed with his children until they all went to Canada aboard S/S Montcalm. They arrived at the port of Quebec on 21 September 1928.

Catherine lived in Nanaimo the remainder of her life. She lost her husband, Thomas, in 1950.

She died on 9 February 1962 of mesenteric thrombosis and allure-sclerosis at Nanaimo Hospital. Her home address at the time of her death was 567 Townsite Road. She was buried on 13 February 1962 at the Nanaimo City Cemetery in Nanaimo.

_________________
1891 Scotland Census, Parish: Hamilton; ED: 18; Page: 4; Line: 1; Roll: CSSCT1891_310
1901 Scotland Census, Parish: Blantyre; ED: 1; Page: 10; Line: 11; Roll: CSSCT1901_245
1911 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 2; Family No: 23
1921 Canada Census, Census Place: Nanaimo, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page: 22; Family No: 140
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1962-09-002593
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1962 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Ocean Arrivals (Form 30A), 1919-1924, 1920 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1910 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1920 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1928 Richmond, Catherine
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1949 Richmond, Catherine Mrs.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1953 Richmond, Catherine Mrs.
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Richmond, C. Mrs.
Nanaimo and Vancouver Island Map, Google Maps
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1888 Riddell, Catherine (Statutory Births 647/00 0172)
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1909 Richmond, Thomas - Riddell, Catherine (Statutory Marriages 647/00 0179)
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, Class: BT26; Piece: 650; Item: 110
UK, Incoming Passenger Lists, 1878-1960, Class: BT26; Piece: 864; Item: 39
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1910 Richmond, Catherine
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Richmond, Catherine
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1928 Richmond, Catherine

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Robert Riddell Obituary

RIDDELL, Robert (Bob), with great sadness Robert Riddell passed away suddenly at his home March 26, 2007 at the age of 69 years.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Sonia. His loving daughters Vicki, Susan (Ray), Karen (Terry), and sons, Robert (Cheryl), Gordon (Carol), and Keith. Bob had 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

His sister Margaret (Jim), brother-in-law Wyn, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mob ad many close friends.

Robert was a member of the Pacific Coast Mustang Association and Nanaimo Fish and Game club. Bob was a volunteer for the East Wellington Fire Department and an employee for over 33 years at Malaspina College. Bob also hunted, fished and went camping at the cabin.

Family would like to thank paramedics, East Wellington Fire Department, Dr. Janssen, staff at Emergency Department at NRGH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Diabetic Association.

As published in the Nanaimo Daily Bulletin 28 March 2007.

2.3.4.2.2.1. Robert Riddell (1937-2007)

According to Robert's daughter, he was born on 3 April 1937, which would make him the oldest child of Robert and Margaret Campbell Clelland (Jamieson) Riddell.

Canadian voters lists and telephone directories provide some information about Robert:
  • 1972, Riddell, Robert Jr., Instructor, R. R. 3, Nanaimo with Riddell, Sonia, housewife
  • 1995-1996 Riddell, Robert, 2458 Balance, Nanaimo
  • 1997-2002 Riddell, Robert, 2458 Balance, Nanaimo
Robert died on 28 March 2007 at his home.

_______________
Canada, Phone and Address Directories, 1995-2002, 1995-1996 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Phone and Address Directories, 1995-2002, 1997-2002 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Riddell, Robert Jr.

Margaret "Peggy" Campbell Clelland (Jamieson) Riddell Obituary

RIDDELL (nee Jamieson), Margaret "Peggy," passed away peacefully on December 27, 2004 at the age of 91. Born in Scotland on April 1, 1913 she came to Nanaimo in 1921 with her parents, brothers, and sisters. Margaret lived all her life in the Quarterly area on Bowen Road. Margaret was predeceased by her husband Robert in 1981, and by her five brothers and three sisters. She is survived by her son Robert (Sonia) Riddell and daughter Margaret (Jim) Davis, also survived by eight grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Dr. Mann, staff at Berwick on The Lake and Central Drugs. A memorial service will be held in the chapel of First Memorial Funeral Services, 1720 Bown Road on Friday, January 7, 2005 at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers donations to the Heart and Stroke, Cancer Society or Diabetes Society would be appreciated.

As published in the Nanaimo News Bulletin on an unknown date.

2.3.4.2.2. Margaret Campbell Clelland Jamieson (1913-2004)

Margaret Campbell Clelland Jamieson was born on 1 April 1913 at Stoneymeadow in the Cambuslang parish, Scotland. Her parents were Neil Campbell and Margaret (Clelland) Jamison. Her father was an oil merchant and owned his own business.

On 31 March 1920 James, Margaret, and their children, including little Margaret, who was called Peggie at the time, boarded the Anchor-Donaldson Line's S/S Cassandra in Glasgow. They arrived in Halifax, Canada on 10 April and their destination was Vancouver, British Columbia, where Margaret's father intended to become a farmer.  When the Canadian census was enumerated in 1921, the family lived in Nanaimo on the family farm.

Anchor-Donaldson Line's S/S Cassandra; image courtesy of Clyde Site

On 8 October 1936 Margaret married Robert Riddell at 36 Robson Street in Nanaimo. At the time of their marriage, Margaret lived at home with her parents. The couple had two children, Margaret R. and Robert Riddell.

Margaret lost her husband in 1981 and, according to her grandnephew, died on 27 December 2004 in Nanaimo.

_______________
"S/S Cassandra," Clyde Site
1921 Census of Canada, Reference Number: RG 31; Folder Number: 16; Census Place: New Castle, Nanaimo, British Columbia; Page Number: 1
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1936-09-440010
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1920 Jamieson, Peggie
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Riddell, Mrs. Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Riddell, Mrs. Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Riddell, Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1974 Riddell, Margaret
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1913 Jamieson, Margaret Campbe (Statutory Births 627/00 0231)
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1920 Jamieson, Miss P.

2.3.4.2.2. Robert Riddell (1915-1981)

Robert Riddell was born on 16 July 1915 at his parents home on 21 Dykhead Rows in Hamilton parish, Scotland. His parents were John and Agnes (Richmond) Riddell and his father was a coal miner. His mother died in 1925 when he was just ten years old and his father immigrated to Canada in August 1928.

On 15 September 1928, Robert and his sister, Mary, boarded the Canadian Pacific Line's S/S Montcalm at Greenock. He lived at Udston Rows before their departure and attended school. They arrived at the port in Quebec on 21 September and likely traveled by rail to their father's home in Nanaimo, British Columbia.

On 8 October 1936 Robert married Margaret Campbell Clelland Jamieson at 300 Robson Street in Nanaimo. Robert was 21 years old, worked as a farmer, and lived at 706 Haliburton Street. The couple had two children. I have been unable to find any information on their daughter, Margaret R.

I believe the following is an accurate depiction of Robert's adult life gleaned through Canadian voters lists:
  • 1945 Nanaimo, 715 Halliburton Street; occupation: Miner
  • 1953 Nanaimo, R. R. 3; occupation: Grindman
  • 1957 Nanaimo, R. R. 3, lived with wife, Mrs. Robert; occupation: Groundsman
  • 1962 Nanaimo, East Wellington, lived with wife, Mrs. Robert; occupation Truck driver
  • 1972 Nanaimo, 1641 Bowen Road, lived with Mrs. Margaret and Miss Margaret R.; occupation: Helper
  • 1972 Nanaimo, 1641 Bowen Road, lived with Mrs. Margaret and Miss Margaret R.; occupation: British Columbia hydro helper
Robert died on 28 May 1981 at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital in Nanaimo, of pneumonia and bronchogenic squamous carcinoma. He was retired from BC Hydro at the time of his death; his widow lived another 23 years.

_______________
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1981-09-008773  
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1981 Riddell, Robert
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1936-09-440010
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1928 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1945 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1953 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1962 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Riddell, Robert
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1974 Riddell, Robert
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, Extract of an entry from the Register of Births in Scotland (1915 Riddell, Robert)
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1928 Riddell, Robert

Monday, February 16, 2015

2.3.4.2.1.2.1. William Frederick Crawford (1954-2010)

William Frederick Crawford was born on 24 February 1954 to Eric William Crawford and the daughter of Walter Frederick and Mary (Riddell) Colbourne. He was one of nine children. He died on 30 July 2010 in Victoria, British Columbia, at the age of 56 -- much too young.

A young William Frederick Crawford on his father's horse; photograph
courtesy of Ancestry.com member dhead3

CRAWFORD, William (Bill) Frederick -- February 24, 1954 to July 30, 2010
On July 30, after a courageous battle with diabetes, Bill went to heaven peacefully riding on his stallion. Cowboys live forever! He is predeceased by his father, Eric, and Uncle Roy. Bill is survived by his Mom, Margaret; brothers, Dennis (Jean), Gord (Brenda), Tim (Sandie); sisters, Karen, Lorraine (Robert), Sherry-Lynn (Don), Carlin, and Kathy. His Aunty Babs, cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces. Also leaves behind two special grand boys, Jordie and Zachary and Katlin. And his side-kick Shortcut. Thank you to his best friend, Al, for being there for Bill. Thanks to the nurses and doctors who cared for our brother. Thank you also to Dr. Wylie for his care and support of Bill. Other special people to Bill are Apple Tree staff, Haultain F+C staff and Adrienne Tea Garden. "His Special Girls!" Thank you. Our brother Bill is truly the very best brother anyone could have. Bill you are forever in our hearts enjoying being with Dad and no kicking our butts from up there! Celebration of Bill's life will be on August 7, 2010 at 1 p.m. at the family home. ALL ARE WELCOME.

_______________
Global, Obituary Daily Times Index, 1995-Current, 2010 Crawford, William Frederick
Times Colonist, 5 August 2010
Legacy.com, 2010 Crawford, William Frederick

Sunday, February 15, 2015

Eric William and Mary Margaret (Colbourne) Crawford Wedding

This is the wedding photograph of Eric William and Mary Margaret (Colbourne) Crawford, which was graciously shared by Ancestry.com member dhead3:

Eric William and his bride; photograph courtesy of
Ancestry.com member dhead3

2.3.4.2.1.2. Eric William Crawford (1924-1980)

Eric William Crawford was born on 16 January 1924 in Victoria, British Columbia, to William James and Ethel Gertrude (Williams) Crawford. William, his father, had immigrated from County Antrim, Ireland. His mother had been born in Ontario.

The 1945 voters list indicated Eric lived with his parents at 3237 Wascana Street in Nanaimo, British Columbia. His served with the Royal Canadian Navy. In 1949 Eric was still living at the Wascana Street address and worked as a mechanic. On the 1953 voters list, Eric continued to live at the Wascana Street address with his widowed mother and brother.

According to one of his descendants, he married the daughter of Walter Frederick and Mary (Riddell) Colbourne on 4 December 1952 in Victoria. The couple had nine children.

The 1957 voters list included Eric William and Mary Margaret Crawford, living on 435 Conway Road with Eric working as a mechanic. The 1958 list included the same information.

By 1963 the couple had moved to Victoria, British Columbia and lived on 2660 Dean Avenue. Mary's brother, Barrie, lived with them and worked as a gas station attendant. Eric's occupation was listed as shipper, which would have been a new career for him. In 1965 the couple was at the same address and Eric again worked as a mechanic.

He died on 21 November 1980 at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, British Columbia, cardiac arrest with several other contributing factors. His wife is still alive.

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Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1980-09-017422
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1980 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1945 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1949 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1953 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1958 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1963 Crawford, Eric William
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1965 Crawford, Eric William

2.3.4.2.1.2. Mary Margaret Colbourne (unknown- )

Mary Margaret Colbourne was the daughter of Walter Frederick and Mary (Riddell) Colbourne. Her birth date is unknown.

We do know she had married Eric William Crawford, a mechanic, by 1957 and they lived on 435 Conway Road in Saanich, British Columbia. It is believed the couple had nine children.

Sometime between 1958 and 1963 the family moved from Saanich to 2660 Dean Avenue in Victoria, British Columbia. According to her mother's death certificate, for which Mary was the informant, she was still living at the 2660 Dean Avenue address in 1984. That is the last record I have been able to locate for Mary Margaret (Colbourne) Crawford.

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Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Crawford, Mrs. Mary Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1958 Crawford, Mrs. Mary Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1963 Crawford, Mrs. Mary Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1965 Crawford, Mrs. Mary Margaret
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Crawford, Mrs. Mary Margaret

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Children of Walter Frederick and Mary (Riddell) Colbourne

2.3.4.2.1.1 Barrie Jasper Colbourne (unknown- )

Barrie Jasper Colbourne was the son of Walter Frederick and Mary (Riddell) Colbourne. I do not know when he was born or if he is still living. What is known about Barrie comes from Canada voters lists. We know that in 1957 he was living with his sister and her husband on 435 Conway Road in Saanich and worked as a logger. In 1963 he was still living with his sister and her husband on 2660 Dean Avenue in Victoria and worked as a gas station attendant.

The last record we have for Barrie is the 1972 voters list. Barrie is back in Saanich, living on 10025 McDonald Park Road and worked as a truck driver. With him at the address is a Mrs. Anita Colbourne. Nothing is known about his wife.

2.3.4.2.1.2. Mary Margaret Colbourne (unknown- )

The lives of Mary Margaret Colbourne and her husband, Eric William Crawford, will be detailed in a future post.

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Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1957 Colbourne, Barrie
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1963 Colbourne, Barrie
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1972 Colbourne, Barrie

Walter Frederick Colbourne Death Certificate

The death certificate for Walter Frederick Colbourne described the logging truck accident which took his life:

2.3.4.2.1. Walter Frederick Colbourne (1912-1947)

Walter Frederick Colbourne was born on 14 October 1912 in Vancouver, British Columbia, to Frederick John and Jean Waring (Nation) Colbourne. His father died in 1936, and his mother married Eli McLallen.

Walter and Mary Riddell married the year before his father's death on 19 March 1935 in Victoria, British Columbia. He was 22 years old and worked as a grain operator. In 1940 the couple lived at 1857 Crescent Road, Apt. 3.  They still lived there when Walter died on 8 September 1947 in Jordan River. The truck he was driving went down a bank and Walter sustained fatal injuries to the back of his skull. He was buried on 11 September at Royal Oak Burial Park in Saanich.

Cedar stump, Jordan River, British Columbia, 1929; photograph courtesy of the
BC Forestry Service

His wife, Mary, 34 years old at the time of his death and left with two young children, who are still living.

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"Cedar Stump, Jordan River, 1929," BC Forestry Service
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate, 1872-1993, 1947-09-007692
Canada, British Columbia Death Index, 1872-1990, 1947, Colbourne, Walter
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1935-09-423615
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1935 Colbourne, Walter - Riddell, Mary

Friday, February 13, 2015

Mary (Riddell) Colbourne Family Photographs

These photographs were graciously shared by Ancestry.com member dhead3:

Mary (Riddell) Colbourne and her daughter, Mary Margaret; photograph
courtesy of Ancestry.com member dhead3


Mary (Riddell) Colbourne and her father, John "Jock" Riddell; photograph
courtesy of Ancestry.com member dhead3

2.3.4.2.1. Mary (Riddell) Colbourne (1913-1984)

Mary Riddell was born on 2 March 1913 at Dufflehead Rows in Hamilton parish, Scotland to John and Agnes (Richmond) Riddell. Her parents married two months before her birth and her father was a  coal miner.

Mary's mother, Agnes (Richmond) Riddell, died in 1925. Her father left Scotland in August 1928 for a new life in the Canadian west. She and her brother lived in Udston Rows in Hamilton and Mary worked as a domestic. When Mary was 15, they boarded the Canadian Pacific Line's S/S Montcalm in Greenock. She and her brother arrived at the port in Quebec on 21 September 1928. They likely traveled by train to join their father in Nanaimo, British Columbia.

Canadian Pacific Line's S/S Montcalm; photograph courtesy of
Del Campe

On 19 May 1935 Mary married Walter Frederick Colbourne in Duncan, British Columbia. They had two children, who are still living.

Mary lost her husband in a logging accident in 1947. The Canadian voters lists indicated that in 1953 Mary lived at 1755 Kisber Avenue in Staanich and in 1962 lived at 1960 Lee Avenue, Apt. 305 in Victoria,  British Columbia, and worked as a clerk.

She died on 8 March 1984 at the Royal Jubilee Hospital Hospice in Victoria of pancreatic cancer. Her body was cremated four days later.

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"S/S Montcalm," Del Campe
Canada, British Columbia Death Certificate,  1872-1993, 1984-09-004716 
Canada, British Columbia Death Index 1872-1990, 1984 Colbourne, Mary
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Certificate, 1872-1938, 1935-09-423615
Canada, British Columbia Marriage Index, 1872-1935, 1935 Coulbourne, Walter - Riddell, Mary
Canada, Passenger Lists, 1865-1935, 1928 Riddell, Mary
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, 1953, Colbourne, Mary
Canada, Voters Lists, 1935-1980, Colbourne, Mary
Scotland, Statutory Registrations, 1855-2013, 1913 Riddell, Mary (Statutory Births 647/00 0250)
UK, Outward Passenger Lists, 1890-1960, 1928 Riddell, Mary