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Old Photographs, Recognition, Handwriting Deciphering => Handwriting Deciphering & Recognition => Topic started by: Nookie on Tuesday 27 August 24 14:38 BST (UK)
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I would really appreciate it if someone could confirm the name of the father, as well as what could be his address written below. There is nothing else filled in on the page from which this was taken.
Many thanks
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? Where and When ????????????????????
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It comes from a page in his service record, which is otherwise blank. Probably written in 1914 when he enlisted.
It is the only mention of a parent on all the forms. I know what I would like it to read, but would like better eyes than mine to confirm it.
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I should add that the service record is for a William Balshaw, and I am almost sure that the surname reads Balshaw.
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So which site? Ancestry, FindMyPast or other?
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For those with FindMyPast, this link hopefully works:
https://search.findmypast.co.uk/record?id=gbm%2fwo363-4%2f007292459%2f00317&parentid=gbm%2fwo363-4%2f7292459%2f15%2f312
The file is labelled William Balshaw, but other than him signing that way, the file is consistent with calling him William Belshaw.
He is 30 yrs, 5 mos. at enlistment, which was 16 Sep 1914.
Service # 102, and was previously an AB seaman (bought out).
I think his father is Adam Belshaw, address "something" Green, Manchester. (or is that Grocer, not Green?)
Attached is a light and dark image of it; maybe some letters can be picked out.
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I haven't looked at the original, but your versions help a lot.
I think his father is Adam Belshaw, address "something" Green, Manchester. (or is that Grocer, not Green?)
I'm fairly sure the main word in the address is Latimer, with a number ending -8 before it. I'm not sure about Green - possibly Gdns? And then Manchester, as you say - that may well be enough to pin it down exactly.
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Good spot on the ?8 Latimer, Arthurk!
There is a 64yo Adam Balshaw at 18 Latimer Street, Oldham, Lancs in the 1911.... would Oldham be considered Manchester? Or is this just coincidence?
Edit: That "green/grocer" could just be "Street"?
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Thank you so very much. I was really hoping that the name was Adam, and you have just confirmed it. I shall now follow up on the street.
I really appreciate the assistance of everyone.
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Edit: That "green/grocer" could just be "Street"?
Looking at it again, I think you may be right.
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I agree with street. The William Balshaw I am looking for had a father Adam. Unfortunately William had a tendency to fudge the truth, so trying to track him down has proven to be very difficult. He was born in Barton Upon Irwell in 1886 to Adam and Mary Ann Balshaw. The only thing is always used was his actual date and month of birth 21 April, but he was very fuzzy on the year. He came out to South Africa, married, had a child, and then told his wife he was going out for a bit and just never returned! It is suspected that he went back to England.
I really do appreciate all the help. You guys are brilliant. Thank you.