Genealogy Chat

My gr uncle worked as a shoemaker at the Court in London between 1907? to 1917 I wondered if there would be a record of it somewhere

You're talking Cobblers aren't you Val? (sorry-couldn't resist that!) Can you tell us what you mean by 'The Court' in this context?

Val, shoemakers were called Cordwainers years ago. Just in case you didn't know.

Only the posh ones!

I found out my gr uncle was a shoemaker for the court that is all I know but he lived in Marylebone, London I thought you wouldn't Paul lol Never heard of that word east point lady

Hi Val There are all sorts of courts in London. Earls Court etc. Do you have an address for 'the court'? I wonder if it's anything to do with the name 'court shoes'? Regards Ann

East Point Lady, Thankyou!, I have shedloads of Cordwainers in my tree, had no idea what they did! Why were they the posh shoe makers? Don't suppose you know what a Ganger is do you?? LOL Lisa ;@)

Hi Lisa Ganger / Gangsman Overseer = foreman - from mid 18c.

Thanks Ann, had the whole family trying to work that one out! Lisa

Ann I don't know this is all I know

Was he a shoemaker who just happened to be working at the court.? OR was he actually doing shoemaking at the court. If that makes sense, Val!

Try a google search for guild of shoemakers london you may find something there Val. Good Luck Ann

My grandmother was a Court Upholstress, her sister a Court Dressmaker. My understanding is that they made for people who frequented the Court of St James. ie, the rich and titled. Victoria

Thank you for all your help

WOW Val, NOT just the rich + famous. It was a ROYAL RESIDENCE!! The Court of St. James's is the popular name of the royal court of the United Kingdom. The court is considered to sit wherever the Sovereign, currently Queen Elizabeth II, happens to be. Thus meetings of the Privy Council may occur at the Court at Buckingham Palace, at Windsor Castle (typically during Easter), and at Holyrood Palace or Balmoral Castle in Scotland during Christmas and Summer. The Court of St. James's Palace refers to the palace now used as the administrative centre of royal business. It was the official royal residence from 1702 until 1837, when Buckingham Palace took over the role. Wonder if they have 'old employee lists?' Regards Ann

Hi again Val The Royal Archives have lists!! There is an address to contact on this site. It makes interesting reading. http://www.berksfhs.org.uk/journal/Dec2000/dec2000RoyalArchives.htm Regards Ann

Thanks Ann will check it out

I believe St James' Palace is now 'grace and favour' flats- for certain employees, relatives 'down on their luck' or for friends & family. My late father in law was chef to King George VI, and he and his family (including my ex) lived in St James' Palace in the '50's :0) maggie