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Hello to everyone who responded to my initial query all those years ago. Health and other matters forced me to temporarily abandon my research on Gypsy musicians, but I have just reactivated the project. And, now as then, I would be very grateful to learn of any known musicians active before 1900. My list of known musicians has now reached 319 players. Health and happiness to all.

That's very interesting indeed, and might help shed some light on the fact that between 1891 and 1901 many of the Locks travelling north Wales adopted the alias Boswell. So, for example, Noah Lock (born 1824) was Lock when seen by the census taker in Edgmond, Shropshire, in 1891, and Boswell when at Llasadrwn, Anglesey, ten years later. He and some of the family members who travelled with him remained Boswells in the official sources until the end of their lives. So, old Noah died in Llanddeusant, Anglesey, on 12 March 1907, and his death was registered as Noah Boswell. His wife died three years later and was registered at Bangor, Anglesey, as Deliah Locke-Boswell.

If you think it might stimulate your grandad's memories let me know if I can tell you more about the activities of the family during the early 20th century.

Once again I am in your debt, Ann.

In fact, I've already created a biography for James Miller, though he appears in my gaujo musicians database, as I was unable to find any specific Romany connections. Have a look at his biography at :

http://www.etma.org.uk/musiciandownload.html

the 1841-1850 PDF, under MILLER, James. A very interesting career, including playing in a Music Hall context.

Please continue to pass on anyone else who looks a likely candidate.

I very much appreciate it.


Keith

Paula

Plato is with Miselli in 1861 but ten years later with Freedom Lane, whom he marries in 1874. Did Miselli die, or did they just split up and move on to different partners? Were Plato and Miselli ever formerly married? He gives the alias 'William' in 1841 and 1881 also.

Keith C