Hello from an overcast morning in Australia
Sorry to bang on about this as I realise that one man's obsession can quickly become very tiring for others and I don't want to wear out my welcome on these pages.
Verifiable information regarding Old Elm Cottage and a photograph of the Old Elm Inn continues to elude me. I have nothing concrete to suggest a connection between the two, however, I would dearly love a photograph if the Inn in addition to information and a possible photograph of the Cottage.
An item held at Gloucestershire Archives - D7063/Box9/4 - refers to "miscellaneous deeds and documents held by Thomas Price, deceased 1933". Among the items listed are - "Churchdown: 'Grotto Villa' and eight messuages nearby; Sandywell Cottage, orchard called "The Plocks", the old Elm Inn, two orchards and cottage; Elm Villa."
I wonder if Thomas Price had an interest in Old Elm Cottage, or am I drawing too long a bow?
Both the Gloucestershire Chronicle and the Gloucestershire Journal, on 14 February 1920, include the announcement of my dad's birth at Old Elm Cottage.
A volunteer researcher from The Gloucester Historical Society kindly offered assistance but has, as yet, discovered nothing apart from the fact that dad was born there. I am grateful to her for her continuing efforts.
A photograph of the Inn is of great interest to me, even if there is no connection between it and the Cottage. I notice that a Hotel Development/Investment site even has a shot of the Bat and Ball dressed in the livery of the Old Elm Inn as a suggestion as to its future potential. The "dead pubs" division of the Historic Hotels organisation cannot assist with an original photo.
So, there we are. What, where, who was associated with Old Elm Cottage and what became of it? Also, can anyone point me in the direction of a publicly available photograph of the Old Elm Inn, please?
Best wishes and many thanks ... John