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Scotland (Counties as in 1851-1901) => Scotland => Stirlingshire => Topic started by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 13:34 BST (UK)

Title: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 13:34 BST (UK)
Hi,
Hope I get this first post correct, seeking information on my grandfather ,Alexander Smith Miner, died 1962 at 81 Duke St. Denny, 

Believe he was in The Royal Scots, during WW1 had about  10 children, am trying to track down his military history or any info. for family tree research.
Would desperately love to acquire a photograph.
Thanks in anticipation.

unknownmale:-[
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 13:38 BST (UK)
Hi and welcome to Rootschat

Could you tell us how old your grandfather was when he died

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 14:05 BST (UK)
Hi CaroleW,

Alexander was 89 yrs.old when he died, he was born My 27th. 1873, in /shotts Lanarkshire.

Regards,

unknownmail.
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 14:16 BST (UK)
Hi

I'm not sure whether you are looking for census info on your grandfather but I'll start off with this 1881 entry.  Everybody was b Shotts

Youngsland Shotts Lanark 
   
Alexander SMITH   Widower   37  Occ:   Coal Miner
Margaret 15   
Robert  13  Occ: Drewer In Coal Pits
George 11 
Alexander  8     
Thomas  7 
Mary 3 
Volume 626-B    EnumDist 5    Page 5

I will check the 1871 for the name of Alexanders mother etc
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 14:22 BST (UK)
1871 for 7 Youngs Land  Shotts - all b Shotts apart from "Mard"

Alexander Smith 27 coal miner
Mard (suspect should be Mary) 23 b Glasgow
Margaret 3
Robert 3
George 1
Shotts; ED: 5; Line: 5
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 14:28 BST (UK)
There are quite a lot of Alexander Smith marriages on the IGI but your grandfathers birth cert will give his parents names

This is a possibility for your great grandparents marriage as Mary was b Glasgow

ALEXANDER SMITH    Spouse:  MARY DONALDSON 
Marriage:  29 DEC 1865   High Church Glasgow 

www.familysearch.org
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 14:39 BST (UK)
Hi CaroleW,

I have not seen this census, info as far as I recall, the marriage is not correct,how have you managed to get this so quickly ? Thanks a million. it is really info on Alexander in Denny (Grandfather)as I am trying to sort him out.
That is not to say I do not wish any other information. I was hoping there might be something in the local papers (Falkirk Herald)regarding his going to war etc. or any other info.

Greatly appreciate your efforts, greatful for any and all info re-family.

regards,
unknownmale.  (properly spelt this time)
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: Laurina on Saturday 09 August 08 14:44 BST (UK)
Hi unknownmale

Falkirk Library (falkirk.library@falkirk.gov.uk) or Falkirk Archives (callander.house@falkirk.gov.uk) will have the newspaper so it would be worth contacting them.

Laurina
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 14:48 BST (UK)
Hi

Is this his christening?  If so - "Mard" was Margaret

ALEXANDER SMITH  Birth:  27 MAY 1873   Calderhead, Lanark,
 
Father:  ALEXANDER SMITH    Mother:  MARGARET BUCHANAN  

And this could be his parents marriage

ALEXANDER SMITH    Spouse:  MARGARET BUCHANAN  
Marriage:  29 JUL 1864   Old Monkland, Lanark

www.familysearch.org

I have the 1881 census on CD but also have access to census info via Ancestry subscription
 
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 15:04 BST (UK)
Hi CaroleW and Laurina,


Laurina,

Thanks for the info re archives will somehow try to access them.

Carolew, yes, that`s the marriage, etc. once again I have not seen this stuff, before I am constantly amazed at the assistance given to folks in our quest to discover our family history.

My problem with him is that so many Smiths went to war it is difficult to tie someone down sometimes. I have an Alexander Smith joining Royal Scots 1915, this particular man`s address was given as 57a milton Row, Dunipace. My grandfathers last child born prior to the war was 1913 in 1919 he had a son Robert, born 57a Milton Row, although this is not 100% I am convinced the Alex. Smith I have refeerred to enlisting is my grandfather, however I need to try to confirm this prior to paying a researcher totry and find his army record, if it survives.

regards,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 16:10 BST (UK)
Hi

Here are  the 1891 details so that you have a picture of your grandfathers past before he married your grandmother

There are some children born after 1881 so I wonder whether Alexander snr re-married after 1881 and was again widowed before 1891

Struthers Property Backpriestfield Blantyre.

Alex Smith 45 b Shotts - coal miner
Alex 17 b Shotts coal miner
Mary 14 b Shotts
Henne (male)?? 11 b Blantyre - does not show on 1881 census
John 2 months b Blantyre

Plus

Annie Connor 5 b Blantyre boader
George McLay 20 visitor b Coatbridge
Annie McLay 26 b Coatbridge - housekeeper
Blantyre; ED: 3; Line: 19


Did he marry an Annie Doyle who was b Hamilton?
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 16:54 BST (UK)
Hi again,

Yes he did marry Annie Doyle she was the daughter of John Doyle and Ann Code

regards,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: silvery on Saturday 09 August 08 17:16 BST (UK)
googled this.
Any good do you think?

http://www.rootschat.com/links/0414/ 

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 17:30 BST (UK)
Thanks Silvery,

I believe these lists refer only to officers as far down the list a lieutenants.  Regards,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 17:39 BST (UK)
Quote
Yes he did marry Annie Doyle she was the daughter of John Doyle and Ann Code

Then here they are in 1901

Douglas Water Rows Carmichael

Alexander Smith 26 b Shotts - coal miner
Annie 22 b Hamilton
Annie 4 b Hamilton
Alexander 1 b Armston Midlothian
Annie Doyle 60 b Ireland mother in law
Carmichael; ED: 1; Line: 22;

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: silvery on Saturday 09 August 08 17:41 BST (UK)
Oh, no good then.  I wonder if the  Armed Force boards WW1 section could help you with the records, or where they might be found.
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 17:54 BST (UK)
Hi yet again and thanks,

Perhaps all the "bad people" in this world should be enrolled with group, it seems that a common interest in family history makes for very nice people.
So if I have this right CaroleW then all I need is his hat and shoe size ?

Very deeply indebted to you

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: silvery on Saturday 09 August 08 18:01 BST (UK)
If you go to 'Genes Reunited' and search the trees (at the top of the page) you will find that there are a few people with Alexander Smith, 1873, Shotts Lanarkshire. 

http://www.GenesReunited.co.uk/search.asp?wci=relations&act=submit

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 21:31 BST (UK)
Thanks once again, Silvery,

I have been in touch with all but one of these folks some have replied some not. Unfortunately the ones that have are 2nd cousins therefore have not to the best of my knowledge sought the info on alexander that I seek.

I am amazed at the help \i have received today onthis site.

regards,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: silvery on Saturday 09 August 08 21:41 BST (UK)
You're very welcome, I'm sure everyone on this site is very pleased to try and help.   I'm useless compared .......

oh 'eck, another duff lead from me.   worth a try I suppose. 
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 21:47 BST (UK)
Quote
So if I have this right CaroleW then all I need is his hat and shoe size ?

And it was all going so well but now I feel I've let you down as the enumerator has missed that bit!!!
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 21:55 BST (UK)
Well CaroleW,

Hope you can sleep easy, after failing to furnish this information,

Silvery,

Any assistance however small it may seem is welcome and appreciated if people like yourselves don`t pass on th smippets you may find, others may not progress.

unknownmale
 
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: CaroleW on Saturday 09 August 08 22:02 BST (UK)
Can I possibly redeem myself with this info???

It looks like Alexander snr has found himself another wife.  I wonder if Annie Roth Smith was formerly Annie McLay the housekeeper in 1891

1901 census Albert Place Blantyre.  All the Smith children were b Blantyre

Alexander Smith 55  b Shotts coal pit labourer
Annie Roth Smith 35  wife b Coatbridge
John Smith 10  
Christina Smith 8  
Rosina Smith 7
Bella Smith 4  
Susan Smith 3 months  
plus the following boarders
William Addterston (as transcribed) 37  b England
William Hamilton 24 b Glasgow
James McLay 19  b Coatbridge
John M McLay 22  b Coatbridge
Blantyre; ED: 3A; Line: 8



Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Saturday 09 August 08 23:08 BST (UK)
How do you do it?

I don`t know this stuff, but a small bell is wrining in the back of my head regarding the name McLay, so I will review it.

thanks,

once again,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: apanderson on Saturday 09 August 08 23:36 BST (UK)
If your Grandfather in buried in Denny Cemetery, unfortunately, there's no stone marking his grave.

There are 3 Alexander Smiths in buried Denny:

1. Alexander Smith died 31st July 1883 aged 60, husband of Margaret Green

2. Alexander Smith died 9th November 1943 aged 77, husband of Mary McLeod

3. Alexander Smith died 1st October 1965 aged 65, husband of Janet Forsyth

However, if you were to contact: http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/services/community/cemeteries_and_crematorium/cemeteries.aspx

They wound be able to tell you where he was buried if in one of the local Cemeteries. I think they may also be able to tell you if he was cremated. Camelon (or Falkirk) Crematorium is the only one in the district.

Be prepared for a wait though, they're not the quickest at getting back to you!!

Anne
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: apanderson on Saturday 09 August 08 23:47 BST (UK)
There are also 2 Alexander Smiths listed in the Denny & Dunipace Roll of Honour who survived the war. There is a third Alexander Smith, (obviously not your Grandfather :) ) but I thought I'd include him anyway

1. Alexander Smith, Pte., 1st Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, Service No: 9009, enlisted August 1914, residence: 56 Milton Row (Dunipace)

2. Alexander Smith, Pte., 13th Royal Scots, Service No: 16968, enlisted January 1915, residence: 57a Milton Row (Dunipace)

3. Alexander Paterson Smith, Pte. Dorset Regiment, Service No: 12766, enlisted January 1916, residence: 79a Milton Row (Dunipace)
This Alexander was killed in action 2nd January 1917 and is commemorated on Thiepval Memorial.


Anne
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Sunday 10 August 08 07:34 BST (UK)
Hi,

I have Alexander Smith 13th. as service no. 16978 not 16968 this coud just be a typo or have I got it wrong? It could make a difference if I have a researcher look for his records.

How did you get the return from the war material ? I think the man from the 13th. is my grandfather. Have to go do you mind if I post again re this subject ?

regards,

unknownmale
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Sunday 10 August 08 08:22 BST (UK)
Hi, apanderson,

Thank you for the info. I have been overwhelmed by the reponse from this site, a big thanks to one and all. Unfortunately when I tried to respond this a.m. I had to leave the house in a hurry.

I had asked one of my many stupid questions in my previous response, i.e where did you get the info. I know where it came from.

I actually had the information, all the time. However it was presented to me in such a manner I believed the names were given as men who had enlisted, not men who had survived the war, hence my trying to determine if Alexander 57a Milton Row was my grandfather.
You presented the info this morning and the penny dropped immediately, I cannot tell you haow long I have tried to unravel this "mystery" you have succeeded in a very short space of time. Many many thanks.

Non of the Alexanders are mine in the cemetary he died 22 June 1962
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: apanderson on Sunday 10 August 08 10:34 BST (UK)
My mistake - No. 16978 is correct (I was in too big a hurry!! )

Anne
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Sunday 10 August 08 10:40 BST (UK)
Hi,

Not a problem only too glad there are people like you who are willing to assist.

I cannot believe I have finally found the information needed to identify Alexander. ;D ;D


Jim.

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: 314335 on Friday 06 August 10 01:59 BST (UK)
Hello from Australia. This Alexander Smith is also my Grandfather. I have quite a bit of info about him. I am in posession of his WW1 Medals and his record of service. I too would like a photo of him.
Which one of his family was your parent?. My mother was his daughter (Jane). We lived in Denny.
I do not have much time at the moment but I will have more details for you when you answer this.
Regards
Andy. (Andrew Gorrie)
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Friday 06 August 10 10:16 BST (UK)
Hello from Sunny Scotland,

Hi, would I be correct in saying you were at least at one time known as Drew ? My sister Ann knew about your mother and you, Did you/do you play the pipes?
Alexander was my mother Helen Smith`s (1924) father. I have tried for years to find out about him I can only just recall him being alive when I was a youngster but nothing else. I have tried without success to get his military record. etc. Seems strange I have more info on people further back. I am not in touch with anyone who has a picture but I live in hope. Would love to have any info you have on him. I have spent some time trying to find you believe it or not. Look forward to hearing from you.

Regards,

Jim Paterson.
p.s. would be happy to send my e-mail address if you thought that o.k.
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Friday 06 August 10 13:28 BST (UK)
Hi Andy,
Sorry first reply missed out some things I meant to say.I was astonished to get your post have been waiting a long time for info on Alexander. I unfortunately have little or no nfo on the family, I would love to have some.

regards,

Jim
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: raymie on Wednesday 19 June 13 13:31 BST (UK)
Hi again,

Yes he did marry Annie Doyle she was the daughter of John Doyle and Ann Code

regards,

unknownmale

Hi unknownmale,
I'm hoping you can clear something up for me and the notorious Alexander Smith's of Denny/Dunipace. My great grandfather was Alexander Smith B: 1900 died 1/10/1965 his father was  Alexander Smith and was married to Annie Doyle.

Do we have the same Alexander?
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Wednesday 19 June 13 14:12 BST (UK)
Hi Raymie,

Yes 100% sure we are talking the same Smiths. If so we would be related. My mother was Helen. Very keen to hear from you.

Jim.
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: raymie on Wednesday 19 June 13 17:17 BST (UK)
Excellent,
Exciting stuff. Sorry I'm Ray Adams. I've just started my journey in genealogy and was very pleased to see this post. I was in the registrar's yesterday and back in again Friday to do more work around the smith's side.

I have Alexander Smith and Annie Doyle's Marriage Certificate. The information I have from it so far is:

They married on 21 Feb 1896.

Alexander Smith (Coal Miner) aged 22 and resided at 7 Bertram Place, Hamilton. His Father was Alexander Smith also a Coal Miner and Margaret nee Buchanan (Deceased).

Annie Doyle  aged 18 and resided at 6 Bertram Place, Hamilton. Her Father John Doyle a Shoemaker (deceased). Her mother was Ann nee ? Coad

I hope this helps us piece together if we're connected to the same people, any info you have it would be much appreciated?

Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Wednesday 19 June 13 17:25 BST (UK)
Hi Ray,

Jim here, I have quite a bit of information, are you happy to tell me who your parents are, I was a wee bit confused by your speel re gt.grandfather, etc. that`s my age though. My mother was Helen Smith Dau. of Alex. Smith and Annie Doyle. Email address has been removed to prevent spamming, please use the PM System to contact one another.

Love to hear and share soon.

Jim Paterson
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: unknownmale on Friday 21 June 13 14:03 BST (UK)
Message to admin, yes sorry about the e-mail address it was only after I had done it I realised I should have used the p.m. route. You guys do a great job, on a fantastic site.

regards,

unknownmale.
Title: Re: Seeking Grandfather
Post by: Lemon Nelly on Tuesday 29 October 13 23:53 GMT (UK)
Have you tried Ancestry as they have a lot of records from WW1.  Though not all survived as a lot were burnt.