RootsChat.Com

I do understand that it can be strange and uncomfortable to see and hear yourself.

I always remember though, when I was a new mum, reading an account of a mother who was looking back at her life with her children one day. They were looking through photographs together. The children were upset because their Mum was barely in any of the photographs. She'd always avoided it because she hated the way she looked. She said she regretted it, and from that point onwards she made the effort to be in the photographs.

I've done the same, even though I hate seeing myself. Because I know I'd love more photographs of my grandparents and great grand parents.

What was his business?

Sorry, just seen, coal master.

I've had a look in the papers to see what I could find out.

The only thing I've found is in this.

Kensington News and West London Times - Friday 31 May 1929

'One minute Baron's Court Station - One or two business friends required to share large, well furnished bed setting room - (ground floor), opening on to conservatory, piano etc. Mackay 99 Talgarth Road.'

For some reason, the advert is in twice, perhaps an error on the part of the printer.

UPDATE: A few of the surrounding properties have rooms to let from as far back as 1909.

Makes me wonder how many of my male ancestors were domestic abusers.

I have at least one, as he went to court for it. He was described by the authorities as being particularly bad, which considering how low the bar was in his day is pretty depressing. He was also involved in other criminal activity and was a bigamist.

I feel very impressed by his sons, who seem not to have followed in his footsteps. They all seem to have established themselves in respectable jobs and have no criminal convictions.

But as you say, there is so much that we'll never see, because it's not on paper.