My paternal grandfather Cecil Ashley PYE appears on the 1911 census as a 15 year old "drapers apprentice" at home with two elder siblings and parents at 1 Frogmore Road, Market Drayton. A dwelling comprising 6 rooms.
Merely to satisfy my curiosity, would any kind reader with knowledge of the area (especially before major road changes which brought about the division and realignment of Frogmore Road), tell me whether No.1 is likely to have been a (since demolished) property on the south-western corner, at its junction with Shropshire Street?
I don't live locally and uncertain when I can next visit. Both modern street maps and a 1902 (Alan Godfrey) reprint of the 1902 1:2,500 OS do not give clues. On previous visits to the town and surrounding area (his parents were from Moreton Say) I have passed by or over this spot, without realising and taking note.
As an aside, I also have a nice old postcard, dated September 1912, showing a view of "St. Mary's Church from Newport Road", which he sent to his then 'intended', informing her of his safe arrival home. Happy to share with anyone interested. My (Claverley-born) grandmother, whom he went on to marry, was then living and working in Moseley, Birmingham for a drapers' merchants he visitied. Looks like Shropshire roots gave rise to another lasting association.
Doubtful you will have been around at this time, but maybe still remember Drayton as it was, to help?
David Pye
Member
Thanks Mike. Will do. Have learnt a little patience in this game goes a long way!
David
Hello David
The local information from Market Drayton suggests that it is most unlikely the property at 1 Frogmore Road has survived because the old road was little more than a car's width which has now become a large open junction.
A property, which had been near the junction prior to the widening, was a chemists owned by a Mr Lloyd.
You might like to explore the possibility that the properties might have been photographed prior to demolition. If they have I'm not sure whether copies may be at Market Drayton Library and/or Shropshire Archives.
Mike
Many thanks to both you and your 'source'. Had indeed noted from 1902 OS map that Frogmore Road was then quite narrow by comparison. But thanks also for the lead on Mr Lloyd's chemists. No direct connection with my family (GGF was - latterly - a "warehouseman in cheese (factors)" and likely to have rented property). Will re-visit the library when next in MD to check for local trades directories, old photos and maps from the time. Archives is also on the 'must do' list.
Regards, David
Hello David
I know someone who may be able to help you but won't be able to make contact until sometime next week so do keep checking back to see if your question has been answered.
Mike