Ann Eliza Siddall - Father's Occupation

[Donches]

I'd like suggestion for the occupation of Ann Eliza Siddall's father on the record of her baptism and attach a scan of the entry. It looks like " Clerk to Mess" Could it be - Clerk to Magistrates? I'd appreciate suggestions.(Hope it's readable)

Don Tomkinson

[rosie99]

It looks like 'Clerk for Mess' to me    Where and when was this baptism

[Donches]

Hello Rosie,

Yes, it does look like Clerk for Mess, but I can't think what that would mean. The baptism was 7 Aug 1801, Church Lawton, Cheshire.

Don

[Christine53]

I looked at entries for several of their children ( Ann Eliza 1801 Church Lawton, Cheshire , for the benefit of others ). Some of the entries are a little clearer , I think it's something like " Clerk to Messrs Broughton & Co. "

Edit - see Frances Siddall 13 Mar 1803

[Donches]

Thanks Christine, that makes sense. Funny the vicar running out of room in the register. Now I'm wondering who Messrs Broughton & Co were.

Don

[Christine53]

Some of the other entries look like Clerk at Salt Works .

[rosie99]

I was just going to post the same - Clerk at the salt works on other entries

[Ladyhawk]

I'm wondering who Messrs Broughton & Co were.

mentioned here in the Parliamentary Debates from the year 1803

http://www.rootschat.com/links/01mhy/

“contained the sentiments of some of the most considerable salt manufacturers ….. signed by Messrs Broughton & Co & Messrs Sutton & Co the principal proprietors of salt works in county of Chester

[JenB]

Having looked at the original I'm pretty sure the word in question is Mess^rs, the 'rs' having been written in the right-hand column