Gypsy Caravan

[Alegnajay]

Hi,
 When I was a child my great uncle had a gypsy caravan.  Although he was married with a family, he lived in the caravan.  I never thought much about it.  About 5 years ago I met up with one of his sons who gave me quite a lot of background history to it.  So much so that I decided to look into the genealogy records and try to trace where the link was with gypsies.  This is what I found.  My ggreatgrandfather and his father were 'higglers' which I discovered was a name for a pedlar.  This was from my ggreatgrandfather's marriage certificate dated 1/07/1852.  Subsequently he did various jobs including coal carrier and fruiterer.  I haven't researched any further back but it appears from what I have done that they didn't at that stage live in the caravan.  I will post a photo of the caravan at a later date.
Angela

[oldcrone]

hi Angela 

You're really lucky to have traveller/gypsy links within your family's living memory. 

So much of the history of traveller families is lost, simply because these families led lives 'outside' the usual law of the land (ie regarding registering BMDs) and also regarding census registrations (these families were often living in fields, etc outside of villages, and often didn't give their names, or their children's names).

Good luck with your family search - post as much as poss, I'm sure someone can help.

best wishes

Clara 

[casalguidi]

Welcome to Rootschat Angela

I shall look forward to seeing the photograph of your ancestor's caravan - how exciting!

Casalguidi

[Alegnajay]

hi girls,
Thanks for your replies.  I shall post a picture of the caravan as soon as i get it from my cousin.  It was painted all red. The name of the Hagglers were John and James Turner. Unfortunately a very common name.  They lived in a small village called Tean in Staffordshire.   I will definately have to do some more research.
Angela

[Alegnajay]

Sorry, I didn't manage to post the photo of the caravan.  It was in the wrong version.  So hopefully this time i will be successful.  I have just e-mailed my cousin to see if she has a better photo.
Angela

[casalguidi]

Hi Angela

That's lovely and how wonderful to have some "proof" of your heritage

Casalguidi

[Alegnajay]

Hi, Here is the photo promised of the caravan. I'm not sure how old it is but my ancestors who were Higglers (pedlars) must have used it or I don't see how it could have been in the family.  This is my Nan's brother, my greatuncle Ted.
Angela

[casalguidi]

Hi Angela

A lovely photograph!

I've reduced the size a little and turned it round so it's easier for us all to view.

Casalguidi

[Indaloman]

Couldn't resist trying to tint it