1841-06-20 | b. 14 Loughboro' Road, Brixton, Surrey, daughter of Nicolaus Johann Phillip and Agnes Augusta (Popert) Thöl | birth certificate; marriage certificate; GRO index; The Friend IV.116, 1864-05-01; censuses |
1841-07-28 | bapt. St Matthew, Brixton | parish register |
1851 | scholar, living with her family at 8 Bedford Cottages, Barrington Rd, Brixton, Lambeth, Surrey, with a cook and a housemaid | TNA: HO 107/1575 f123 p59 |
1861 | living with her family at 8 Bedford Cottages, Barrington, Brixton, Lambeth, with a housemaid and a cook | TNA: RG 9/365 f149 p11 |
1864-02-12/-20 | of Brixton, London S.; stayed at Mosscroft | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1864-04-12 | m. John Wigham Richardson, at St Martin's parish church, Brixton, Surrey, by licence; witnesses: Fr Lükas, J.P. Thöl, James P. Thöl, Theodore Waterhouse, Agnes Thöl | marriage certificate; The Friend IV.116, 1864-05-01; GRO index; Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson (1911), Glasgow, p. 181 [which say the church was St Matthew's, as does the Newcastle Courant, 1864-04-15] |
1864-04-13 | Newcastle Monthly Meeting at North Shields: 'The overseers of Newcastle have informed this meeting that John Wigham Richardson has been married in a manner contrary to our rules. Charles Wilson, Daniel Oliver & William Henry Holmes are appointed to visit him and report.' | minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1861–67, Tyne & Wear Archives Service MF 170 |
1864-05-15 | Mosscroft visitors' book | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1864-07-13 | Newcastle Monthly Meeting at Sunderland: report that 'He received us in an agreeable manner, and expressed his attachment to the religious principles held by our Society, and his desire to remain in membership;—he also informed us of his wife's increasing appreciation of our religious views. We understand they are both in the regular practice of attending our Meetings on First day Mornings.' Minute continued. | minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1861–67, TWAS MF 170 |
1864-08-10 | Newcastle Monthly Meeting at North Shields: decision to take no further action | |
Children: | Philip Wigham (1865–1953), Ernestine (1868–1953), Maurice Wigham (1869–1937), Cecil (1870–1885), Theodora Wigham (1871–1932), George Beigh (1872–1935), Felix Gabriel (1878–1894) | birth certificates; The Times; The Friend; The British Friend; GRO index; Bootham School Register |
1865-12-19/-20 | of Newcastle; stayed at Mosscroft | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1866-01-05 | of 32 Rye Hill | |
1866 autumn | removed from Rye Hill to Wingrove House | Richardson (1911), p. 204 |
around 1868 | frequently in Germany, with her husband, in those years | Richardson (1911), p. 222 |
1869-02-01 | of Wingrove | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1870-05-18 | stayed at Mosscroft | Newcastle Courant, 1869-02-05 |
1870-09-19 | of Wingrove | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1870-12-28 | of Wingrove, N'castle | |
1871-01-30 | of Wingrove | |
1871 | of Wingrove House, Elswick, Newcastle; living with her husband and four children, and a cook, a housemaid, and two nurses (and a visitor) | RG 10/5082 f92 |
1871-05-28 | of Wingrove, Newcastle | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1872-06-11/-15 | stayed at Mosscroft | |
1874-04-01 | played Nerissa in Ye Marchand of Venyse at Mosscroft | |
1874-05-11 | played Oswald in King Lear at Mosscroft | |
1876 | an accomplished pianist; took Philip and Ernestine to the opening of the Wagner Theatre at Bayreuth | Sir Philip Wigham Richardson (1952) 'It Happened to Me', London: Staples Press: 171 |
1880-05-08 | present at the launch of the Ville de Bone, at the Neptune Works, Low Walker | Jarrow Guardian and Tyneside Reporter, 1880-05-14 |
1881 | [ship]builder's wife, of Wingrove House, Westgate Road, Elswick, Newcastle-on-Tyne, living with her family and five servants | RG 11/5055 f162 p24 |
1881-12-18 | of Wingrove, Newcastle | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1882-09-09 | ||
1882-11-21 | of Wingrove House | |
1882-12-25 | of Wingrove | |
1883-01-01 and -02 | with her family, attended the silver wedding celebration of Mr and Mrs Christie, in the Co-operative Hall, Wallsend | Jarrow Express, 1883-01-05 |
1883-11-07 | of Wingrove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1883-12-25 | of Wingrove House, Newcastle | |
1884-09-14 | of Wingrove | |
1884-12-05 | had donated a dozen cast-off boys' suits to the Walker Fund | Jarrow Express |
1884-12-25 | of Wingrove, N'ctle | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1885 | spent five months in Russia, with her husband | Richardson (1911), p. 274 |
1887-02-04 | of Wingrove House | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1889-11-07 | gave a table at the tea and concert of the annual parochial gathering of All Saints' church, in the Central Hall, Newcastle | Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 1889-11-08 |
1890-06-19 | with her husband and a probable daughter, staying at 50 Front Street, Tynemouth | Shields Daily Gazette |
1890-09-19 | at the annual excursion into the country by members of the St Christopher and St Anthony's Society (the Walker Girls' Friendly Society), "Tea was served in the Spa Ground and a vote of thanks unanimously accorded Mrs Wigham Richardson, the never-failing friend of this local society, for her kind consideration in defraying the expense of the tea." | Jarrow Express, 1890-09-26 |
1890-11 | with her husband and Dora, began foreign tour of several months | Richardson (1911), p. 307 |
1891 | of Wingrave House, Westgate Road, Elswick, living with her family, four servants, and a visitor | RG 12/4199 f106 p37 |
1893-04-26 | opened a sale of work at Walker, in aid of the Building Fund of St Christopher's church, Walker | Shields Daily Gazette, 1893-04-27 |
1896-12-25 | of 1 Shaftesbury Place | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1897-12-10 | a vice-president of the [illegible] Nursing Association | Shields Daily Gazette |
1898-08-18 | with her husband, present at the launch of the Bosnia, from the Jarrow Yard of Palmer's Shipbuilding and Iron Company Ltd | Lloyd's List, 1898-08-19 |
1898-12-26 | of Wingrove House—N'c'tle | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1899-01-05 | with her husband, attended the Ladies' Volunteer Prize Fund Ball, in the Assembly Rooms, Westgate Road, Newcastle | Volunteer Service Gazette and Military Dispatch, 1899-01-13 |
1899-12-25 | of Wingrove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1900-12-25 | of Wingrove Ho. | |
1901 | of Wingrove House, Westgate Road, Elswick, Newcastle-on-Tyne, Northumberland, living with her family, cook, parlourmaid, housemaid, serving maid, kitchen maid, and coachman | RG 13/4773 f139 p21 |
1901-06-14 | had donated £2 2s to the Shetland Fishermen's Widows' Relief Fund | Shetland Times, 1901-06-15 |
1902 | owing to the approaching termination of the lease the Richardson family removed in 1902 from Wingrove House, their home for thirty-seven years, to Hindley Hall near Stocksfield, some fourteen miles west of Newcastle | Richardson (1911), p. 339 |
1902-07-07 | with her husband, attended the wedding of Major Sydney Belfield and Annie Mitchell, at St Mary Abbot parish church, Kensington | Newcastle Journal, 1902-07-08 |
1903-04-23 | with her husband, attended the wedding of Rosaline Milburn and W. Whytehead Boulton, at St George's, Hanover Square, London | Newcastle Evening Chronicle |
1906-01-18 | elected a vice-president of the Wallsend Nursing Association | Jarrow Express, 1906-01-19 |
1908-05-30 | "Marian at Hindley—arranging to quit the pretty place for ever—she has fixed on a house at Surbiton and will live there with Mrs. Barnes." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1908-07-04 | inherited an immediate payment of £500 from her husband, as well as "all my wines liquors and consumable stores and all my furniture plate linen china glass pictures other than the family portraits in the next succeeding clause mentioned prints and other household effects and also my carriages horses harness and stable fittings and all other utensils and things which at the time of my death shall be in use"; to be paid £300 p.a. for life; also to continue to receive income from the 1869 settlement, probably in excess of £700 p.a. | husband's will and grant of probate |
1911 | living in 8 rooms at 1 Cranes Park, Surbiton, Surrey, with Jean Maria Barnes, a cook, a housemaid, and a visitor | RG 14/3537 RD40 ED2 SN62 |
1921 | [no occupation shown, but the enumerator has written in 'Home Duties'], living in 8 rooms at 1 Cranes Park, Surbiton, with a boarder | RG 15/03670 RD40 SD3 ED8 SN104 |
1932-08-15 | of Villiers Lodge, Surbiton, Surrey; made her will; executors and trustees her sons Philip and George, each to be paid £10 for their trouble; trustees "to hand over to any of my children or grandchildren or to any servant or companion of mine such articles of furniture or personal ornament or books as my Trustees may in their absolute discretion determine"; everything else in trust, from which £500 to be invested and to pay income to her sister Mrs Edward Moresby White of Cape Town, South Africa, and after her death 2/10 of the £500 to her niece Dorothy Moresby Cunningham, 2/10 to niece Philippa Moresby Grant, and 3/10 each to her grandsons William and George Wigham Richardson; from the balance of her estate, to pay her sister Theresa H. Gilman £50; the remainder to be divided into twelve equal shares: to Philip [illeg.–sc. three], to Ernestine two, to Maurice one, to Dora two, to George four | will |
1935-04-01 | of Villiers Lodge, Surbiton; d. there | GRO index; grant of probate |
1935-04 | bur. Kensington and Chelsea, London | deceased online |
1935-06-07 | will proved at Newcastle-upon-Tyne by Sir Philip Wigham Richardson; estate £1111 17s. gross, £1044 13s. 8d. net | will and grant of probate |
1838 Q1 | b. Aspley Guise, Bedfordshire, son of Richard Edward and Mary White | censuses; GRO index |
1841 | living with his family at Hayfield Farm, Aspley Guise, with a governess and a female servant | TNA: HO 107/5/2 f14 p23 |
1850/1852 | of Aspley, Bedfordshire; at Ackworth School | Ackworth School Centenary Committee (1879) List of the Boys and Girls admitted into Ackworth School 1779–1879 |
1851 | scholar, of Ackworth School | HO 107/2331 f58 p12 |
1857 | met Jane Emily Richardson at her brother George's home in Edinburgh | Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson (1911), Glasgow: 103 |
1858-09-27 | A. Smith (secretary to the University of Edinburgh to J. Gregory White. Covering note for prospectus of classes etc. relative to Degree of M.D. | How White Papers, accessed 2011-05-11 |
1861 | medical student, lodger in the household of George Reid, blacksmith, 6 Roxburgh Pl., Edinburgh | Scottish census: Parish: Edinburgh St Cuthberts; ED: 9; Page: 8; Line: 21; Roll: CSSCT1861_129 |
1862-07-31 | of Ampthill, Bedfordshire; admitted MRCS | The Times; London Daily News, 1862-08-04 |
1864-03-08 | of Leith Hospital | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1864 | accompanied George Richardson to the United States on a sailing ship, for his health; a month on the passage | Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 182 |
1864-08-01 | received his MD at a ceremony in the General Assembly Hall of the University of Edinburgh | Glasgow Herald, 1864-08-02 |
1864-12-11 | of Aspley Guise | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1865-10-10 | at a meeting of the Woodstock Union guardians, elected by a large majority to the office of medical officer and public vaccinator for the Woodstock district | Oxford Times, 1865-10-14 |
1866-05-02 | of Woodstock, Oxfordshire | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1866-07-18 | Newcastle Monthly Meeting at North Shields: Intention to marry of John Gregory White of Whitney MM & Jane Emily Richardson of Newcastle. Daniel Oliver & Robert Foster appointed—notice from Whitney MM held 1866-07-10 | minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1861–67, TWAS MF 170 |
1866-08-15 | Monthly Meeting at North Shields: liberated. Thomas Pumphrey & James Richardson to ensure good order | |
1866-08-22 | doctor of medicine, of Woodstock, Oxfordshire; m. Jane Emily Richardson, at Newcastle-on-Tyne Friends' meeting house | The Friend VI.69:203; The British Friend 9:236; minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1861–67, TWAS MF 170; marriage digest; GRO index; Newcastle Journal, 1866-08-23 |
c. 1866-08-23 | employees of Elswick Leather Works were treated to a holiday at the seaside on the occasion of their marriage | How White Papers |
Children: | Douglas (1868–1943), Margaret (1869–1945), Mildred (1871–1937), Hilda (1873–1899), Mary Gladys G. (1874–1935), Frances Emily (1876–1899), Edward How (1878–1940), Edith Somers G. (1882–1945) | birth certificates; GRO index; The Friend; The British Friend |
1868-05-25 | on the occasion of the marriage of Sir Ivor Guest and Lady Cornelia Churchill, among the local celebrations, "At the residence of Dr. Gregory White a flat with a true lover's knot in the centre, with united hearts above, was displayed." | Oxford Chronicle and Reading Gazette, 1868-05-30 |
1868/1870 | MD, of Woodstock | children's birth certificates; The Friend NS X.2.48 |
1870-10-04 | of Woodstock; "with broken collar bone" [signed twice, once left-handed] | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1871 | MD Edinburgh MRCS Eng. gen. practitioner, living with his family and one servant in Holdenhurst, Bournemouth | TNA: RG 10/1178 f43 p26; The Friend; The British Friend |
1871-10-23 | of Bournemouth; daughter b. at South Ashfield, Newcastle | Newcastle Courant, 1871-10-27 |
1872-04-27 |
DISPENSARY AND COTTAGE HOSPITAL [Bournemouth].—Dr. Gregory White has been elected honorary surgeon to this institution in the room of Mr. W. Allis Smith, recently appointed honorary consulting surgeon. The contest lay between Mr. T. Garrett Horder and the elected. The contest was most exciting, 26 votes being recorded for each candidate, the chairman's casting vote deciding the matter. It is stated, however, that a scrutiny has been demanded on Mr. Horder's behalf. |
Hampshire Advertiser |
the first doctor in Bournemouth | Sir Philip Wigham Richardson (1952) 'It Happened to Me', London: Staples Press: 98 | |
1873 | physician | daughter's birth certificate |
1873-06-01 | of Bournemouth | Mosscroft visitors' book |
by 1874-11-19 | had donated £5 toward the building fund of the branch Cottage Hospital | Poole & Dorset Herald |
1874-12-30 | of 1 Adelaide Villa, Bournemouth, Holdenhurst, Hampshire; registered daughter's birth | daughter's birth certificate |
1875-01-13 | with his wife, present at the formal opening of Bournemouth Town Hall | Poole & Dorset Herald, 1875-01-14 |
1876-03-09 | physician of Bournemouth; initiated into the Lodge of Hengist | Library and Museum of Freemasonry; London, England; Freemasonry Membership Registers; Description: Register of Contributions: Country and Foreign Lodges, 151-319 (1832); 129-257 (1863) |
1876-05-04 | 'passed' at the Lodge | |
1876-07-06 | 'raised' at the Lodge | |
1877-08-28 | one of several signatories to a letter to the Bournemouth Improvement Commissioners on the subject of the main drainage | Poole & Dorset Herald, 1877-08-30 |
1878-05-16 | at the Dispensary, attended to the fractured skull of a labourer who'd had bricks fall on him from 80 ft above, during the building of the tower of Holy Trinity Church | Hampshire Advertiser, 1878-05-22 |
1880-05-07 | of Bournemouth; co-executor of his father's will, under which he inherited ¼ of his property | How White Papers |
1880-10-27 | attended the meeting of the Dorset District of the British Medical Association, at Sherborne | Dorset County Chronicle, 1880-10-28 |
1881 | physician, MD Edinburgh, of Tregonwell Road, West Knoll, Holdenhurst, Hampshire, living with his family, sister-in-law, and three domestic servants | RG 11/1195 f53 p43 |
1881-08 | with son, John Wigham Richardson and two of his sons, made a tour of Normandy | Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 268 |
1883-11-03 | surgeon to the National Sanitorium for Consumption and Diseases of the Chest | Bournemouth Guardian |
1886-06-26/-28 | of Bournemouth | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1887-04-08 | had attended Major Poyntz, the Chief Constable, at Bournemouth, who was on sick leave | Chelmsford Chronicle |
1888-03-31 | living with his family at West Knoll, Tregonwell Road, Bournemouth West | Bournemouth Guardian |
1889-02-02 | present at the funeral of Mrs Lucy How, at Woburn Sands | Leighton Buzzard Observer and Linslade Gazette, 1889-02-12 |
1889-04-06 | gave evidence at an inquest on a suicide in Bournemouth | Globe, 1889-04-08 |
1889-08-09 | conveyed 44 acres, 2 roods, 5 poles arable land to Lucretia Elizabeth Starbuck, of Bath | A2A |
1889-08-10 | of Bournemouth; at The Avenue with his family | Bedfordshire Mercury |
1891 | physician, of West Knoll, Holdenhurst, Bournemouth, Hampshire, living with a cook, a parlour maid, and a house maid, with three visitors, including two nephews | RG 12/901 f137 p62 |
1892-11-04 | in attendance on the Mrs Alexander Finlay and her newborn son, in Bournemouth | Morning Post, 1892-11-08 |
1893-02-18 | doctor of medicine, of 1 Adelaide Villa, Bournemouth; one of the executors of the will of Charles Gibbs Crawley | Bournemouth Guardian, 1893-02-25 |
1893-11-01 | a subscriber to the Aspley Guise Clothing Club | North Bucks Times and County Observer, 1894-02-10 |
1894-11-17 | conveyed 26 perches near the Wheatsheaf, Aspley Guise, to James Brandon Barnwell | The Wheatsheaf Public House Aspley Guise |
1895 | of Bournemouth | Eliot Papers |
1896-09-10 | of Bournemouth; visitor at the Worcestershire Hotel, Droitwich Brine Baths | Clifton Society, 1896-09-10 |
1898-11-05 | had attended Captain Wiggins in his last illness | Bournemouth Guardian |
1899-06-22 | daughter Hilda d. at West Knoll | Christchurch Times, 1899-07-01 |
1901 | physician, doctor of medicine, of "West Knoll", Tregonwell Road, Bournemouth, living with his wife, two daughters, son, cook, housemaid, and parlourmaid | RG 13/1040 f96 p51 |
churchwarden of St Peter's, Bournemouth | Quaker Connections 15:23 | |
1902-08-27/-28 | of Bournemouth; stayed at Bensham Grove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1903-02-26 | seconded a candidate for a bye-election in the West Cliff ward on the Bournemouth Corporation | Bournemouth Daily Echo |
1903-05-21 | among the first members of the Bournemouth Residents' Association | Bournemouth Graphic |
1904 | of West Knoll, Bournemouth; gave Frank & Mary Pollard knives, for their wedding present | Mary S.W. Pollard, list of wedding presents |
1905-11-02 |
I HEAR that an excellent portrait of Dr. Gregory White has recently been painted by Mr. Walter Hutton, R.A. The likeness is so faithful that rumour speaks of other residents who wish to avail themselves of the services of the gifted artist. I believe I am not incorrect in saying that the picture, which is destined for the next Academy, may possibly be seen in Bournemouth at the next local Art Exhibition. |
Bournemouth Graphic |
1906-10-19 | owner of land where permission was granted for a footpath diversion from Aspley Guise to Crawley-road | Luton Reporter |
1907-01-02 | at the Ampthill Rural District Council: "The Inspector reported one plan received for a house at Aspley Guise for Dr. White." | Ampthill & District News, 1907-01-05 |
1907-03-19 | "Gregory building a house at Aspley for his home when he retires from practise." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1907-06-11 | M.D., of Bournemouth and Aspley Guise | Bedfordshire Mercury, 1907-06-21 |
1907-11-25 | "The Whites leaving for Chateau d'OEx Switzerland where they will pass most of winter." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1908-05-30 |
En route from Surrey Theo and I went for a day visit to Wednesden Aspley Guise Gregorys new and charming house. When finished and the garden laid out it will be a delightful Bedfordshire home. If only health is granted the dear ones—but this end of May Gregory is laid low with pleurisy and pneumonia. |
|
1908-08-11 | "Gregory not yet at all strong after his serious illness [ . . . ]." | |
1909-07-07 | of Aspley Guise; at the annual show of the Woburn Sands Rose and Sweet Pea Society, won first prize for 12 blooms, in class D (ladies and gentlemen) | Ampthill & District News, 1909-07-10 |
1910-01-30 | "Hear that Gregory has decided to leave "Wednesden" for the "Avenue" a smaller house where Mrs. How used to live! | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1911 | physician (M.D.) retired, living in 18 rooms at The Avenue, Aspley Guise, Ampthill, Bedfordshire, with his daughter, a cook, and a housemaid | RG14PN8942 RG78PN473 RD176 SD4 ED2 SN34 |
1912-01-30 | "The Gregory Whites move to The Avenue is a success, as they have let "Wednesden" advantageously." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1913-02-21 | present at the funeral of Mr Howell-Jones, at the cemetery, Aspley Guise | Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1913-02-28 |
1914-06-27 | with his wife and daughters, present at the wedding of Isabel Joan Barrow, at Aspley Guise | Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1914-07-10 |
1915-10-18 | of The Avenue, Aspley; received £341 from the Governors of Queen Anne's Bounty, to be used in or towards building new farm buildings upon the glebe | A2A |
1917-07-11 | Doctor of Medicine, of The Avenue, Aspley Guise, Bedfordshire; executor of the will of his his sister-in-law Caroline Richardson | will and 1917 grant of probate |
1919-10-06 | at his request, Lucretia Starbuck released from mortgage a plot of land of 1398 square yards, to give to trustees as a club or reading room in commemoration of the late war and a tribute to the men of Aspley Guise who fought | A2A |
1919-11-02 | "The Gregory Whites happy at Ringwood, New Forest." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1919-12-30 | "Gregory Whites enjoyed 2 weeks at Christchurch." | |
1921 | physician, retired, living with his daughter Margaret and two servants in 10 rooms at The Avenue, Aspley Guise | RG 15/07973 RD176 SD4 ED2 SN31 |
1921-08-17 | "The Gregory White write us very seldom." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1921-11-23 | doctor of medicine, of The Avenue, Apsley [sic] Guise, Bedfordshire; administrator of his wife's estate | wife's admon |
1922-08-05 |
The new bowling green prepared in connection with the War Memorial Scheme was opened on Saturday afternoon by Dr. Gregory White, by whom it has been so generously provided. Dr. G.H. Fowler, O.B.E., expressed thanks to Dr. White and Mr. W.S. Wells (Chairman of Parish Council) also spoke. Dr. White, who is one of the oldest residents, signalised the opening by sending down a jack. The greens which are very fit and very pleasantly situated, were in use most of the Bank Holiday. |
Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1922-08-11 |
1923-02-10 | at the annual meeting of the Village Bowls Club, "Votes of thanks were passed to Dr. Gregory White for granting the Club the use of more ground at a nominal rent, on which to make two additional rinks [ . . . ]" | Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1923-02-16 |
1924-03-19 | paid £2700 to Starbuck's executors, and they conveyed to him the premises except such portion as had been sold | A2A |
1926-06-03 | made his will | |
1927 |
Aspley Guise was assessed under the Rating and Valuation Act 1925; the valuer
visiting Avenue House [DV1/C138/18] discovered that it was owned and occupied by
Dr John Gregory White. M.D.
The stucco and slate detached dwelling stood in 1.334 acres. The valuer commented: "Was old Cottage 300 years old. Only 3 beds with fireplaces. Miss Orlebar had it at £45 rent. Present owner has added a Bath room. Says he thinks worth £65. Old house in lovely spot with good garden". Downstairs accommodation comprised three reception rooms, a kitchen, larder and pantry. Three bedrooms, a dressing room and a bathroom and w.c. lay upstairs with two attics above that. A brick and slate potting shed, coal house and store lay outside. Two glasshouses measured 11 feet 6 inches by 20 feet and 11 feet by 23 feet respectively. The valuer noted that mains water, drainage and gas were all laid on. |
Avenue House Aspley Guise |
1928 | of Avenue House, Aspley Guise | |
1930-02-11 | of Aspley Guise, Bedfordshire; d. there | GRO index; National Probate Calendar; British Medical Journal |
1930-02-14 |
ASPLEY GUISE THE LATE DR. WHITE The death of Dr. Gregory White took place at his residence in The Avenue early on Tuesday morning. The deceased gentleman was 92 years of age, and came to the village on retirement from his practice at Bournemouth a long time ago. He acquired the Ellis estate and built "Wednesden" as a residence. Dr. Gregory White came from an old Ampthill family with Quaker leanings, and his two sisters, who lived in the village in earlier days and who, because of their picturesque dress, were spoken of as Sisters of Mercy, were well-known residents in the district. The gift of a large and valuable piece of land to the village Bowling Club a few years ago enabled the local bowlers to lay out what is now one of the prettiest greens in the neighbourhood. The death of Dr. White will be very deeply regretted by a large circle of friends at Aspley Guise and elsewhere. Born in 1838, he studied medicine at Edinburgh, took his M.R.C.S. Eng., in 1862, and M.D. Edin. in 1864. After a few years of practice at Woodstock, he settled in Bournemouth, then quite a small place and at the beginning of its reputation as a health resort; besides forming a large practice there, he acted as consulting surgeon to the Royal Victoria Hospital, retiring in 1907 to Aspley Guise, where he had built a house for himself. Coming from Quaker stock, he had an innate courtesy and old-fashioned thoughtfulness for others which endeared him to all who knew him; a great reader, he retained his interest in current movements and events to the very last. He represented the oldest Aspley family, being fifth in descent from Thomas How, who acquired by marriage a considerable property there in 1680. Dr. White leaves several children, of whom Dr. Edward How White, M.D. Oxon, succeeded to his father's practice at Bournemouth. |
Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1930-02-14 |
1930-03-26 |
AVENUE HOUSE, THE AVENUE, ASPLEY GUISE. WALLACE A. FOLL Will Sell by Auction on WEDNESDAY, 26th MARCH, 1930, at TWO o’clock, by direction of the Exors. of the late Dr. Gregory White, Surplus FURNITURE, including Bedsteads and Bedding, Washstands, Chest of Drawers, Fur Travelling Rug. 8-day Striking Clock, Gentleman's Mahogany Wardrobe, Handsome Carved Oak Brittany Wardrobe, 2 Easy Chairs, Axminster Carpet (nearly new), Walnut Sideboard. Outside Effects: Barford & Perkins 20in. Water Ballast Garden Roller, 22in. Garden Roller, Garden Tools, Telescopic Ladder, Seakale Pots, Arum Lilies, Maidenhair Ferns, and other Choice Plants in Pots. On view morning of Sale. No Catalogues. Auction Offices; Woburn Sands & Bletchley. |
Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1930-03-21 |
1930-04-30 | will proved at London by Edward How White M.D. and Margaret White spinster; effects £10,672 13s. 4d. | National Probate Calendar |
net personalty £1454/7/5 | Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1930-05-09 | |
He bequeathed to his son Edward How White "the old How furniture books, pictures and plates he wishes to take". He also instructed that one or more of his daughters should be permitted to occupy the Avenue House and premises during their spinsterhood free of rent [HN10/372/White1]. |
Avenue House Aspley Guise | |
1-para. obit. in Br. Med J. 1930 March 29; 1(3612): 622. |
1840-05-30 | b. Manchester, Lancashire, son of Johann Philipp and Charlotte (Leisler) Merz | censuses; minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1867–74, Tyne & Wear Archives Service MF 170; Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz (1922) Edinburgh and London: William Blackwood and Sons |
1840-11-14 | of Chorlton upon Medlock; baptised at Manchester Cathedral | parish register; Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 35 |
1841 | of Rumford St, Chorlton on Medlock, Manchester, Lancashire, living with his father | TNA: HO 107 f19 p30 |
1842/1867 | lived in Giessen, Worms, and Darmstadt in Germany, first with his father, then at a Classical High School and at the German universities | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 2, 41, 44 |
1848 |
During the troubles of 1848 they travelled to Basel in Switzerland, and it so happened that the murderers of Count Lichnoffski were escaping in the very same steamer on board of which the Merz family were going to Mannheim . . . . |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson (1911), Glasgow: 229 |
1852 | entered a Gymnasium (Classical School) in Darmstadt | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 64 |
1858-04 | left for the University of Giessen | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 73 |
1860-04 | began study for his PhD in mathematics and physics, with a dissertation on an astronomical subject, at the University of Göttingen | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 80, 94 |
1862-08 | awarded PhD at Göttingen | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 2, 96 |
1862-09 | began two years of study at Heidelberg University, in order to qualify as an academic teacher; given a yearly allowance of 800 florins by his father | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 105 |
1864-09 | commenced lecturing in philosophy at the University of Bonn, on the recommendation of his friend Ernst Curtius | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 122, 126 |
1865 | began lecturing at Göttingen | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 144-45 |
1866 spring | visited London | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 147 |
1866-08 | left Göttingen | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 157 |
1866-10/1867-08 | trained in practical chemistry at Wiesbaden | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 158 |
1867-08 | travelled to Glasgow via London, and entered the chemical works of Joseph Townsend, a friend of his uncle's, initially as a volunteer; after two months he was offered £4 a week, and worked for a further six months | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 182, 185 |
1868-05 | began work, as a volunteer, in charge of experimentation at the new Hebburn chemical works in Newcastle | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 197 |
Merz soon mastered the processes at Townsend's works, and he so impressed his uncle with his talents and his grasp of affairs that he was sent to the Hebburn works of the great Tharsis company. The Hebburn works had been erected with all the appliances of that day and were supposed to be thoroughly up to date. They were not, however, paying, and it was with the hope of his making some suggestions that his uncle induced Merz to live for a while at Hebburn. After he had been there some time, more or less than a year I think, I received a visit from Merz about 9 or 10 o'clock one evening. He was rather excited and proposed to me to read aloud a report. I dimly grasped that this was to refer to the management of the Hebburn works and composed myself to listen as best I could. I was unable to follow all, or indeed any of the details, but the concluding paragraph was clear enough. It was to the effect that, if his directors would see fit to follow his recommendations, the result in the next year would be a profit of £32,000 in place of a loss of £8000! This was sufficiently startling, and I urged Merz not to indulge in prophecy. He said, however, that he was certain of his figures, and the report was sent to Glasgow. His directors not unnaturally gave him leave to carry out his policy. The luck of the markets was in his favour, and his policy was more successful than even he himself had anticipated, and I believe there was a profit of some £43,000. |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 230-31 | |
1868-06 | introduced to the Richardson family on the strength of Ernst Curtius's friendship with Marian (Thöl) Richardson | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 213-14 |
1868-06-13 | of Tyne Metal Contacting Co., Hebburn | Mosscroft visitors' book |
joined the Newcastle Lit. & Phil. | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 227 | |
1868 |
It was in 1868 that a young man came over to call on me from the Tharsis works on the other side of the Tyne, and sent in a card, "Mr. Theodore Merz," with a letter of introduction from Frau Curtius. I asked him to lunch on Sunday. We then lived at Wingrove House and, as he arrived a little early and we were out, the servant invited him to walk into the garden. There, in the north-east corner, he saw the old tool-house, which was ornamented by some carved grotesques in stone, and jokingly affected to believe that it was the Quaker chapel with the gods on the sky line. I do not think I had much talk with him on this occasion. He talked principally to his hostess, but from time to time we saw him and were much struck by his abilities. |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson (1911), Glasgow: 228-29 |
1869-04-09 | of Hebburn | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1869-06-22/-23 | stayed at Mosscroft | |
1869 summer | spent the greater part of the summer at the Staffordshire Metal Works at Oldbury | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 208 |
1869 | appointed general technical superintendent (later technical manager) in the Tharsis Company, at Glasgow; when in Newcastle stayed frequently with either the Wigham Richardsons or the Spence Watsons; attended Friends' meetings when with the latter | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 231 |
1869-08-14/-09-06 | stayed at Mosscroft | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1869-11-23/-26 | ||
1869-12-11/-12 | ||
1869-12-29/1870-01-05 | of Glasgow; stayed at Mosscroft | |
1870-02-04/-07 | stayed at Mosscroft | |
1870-08-15/-26 | of Glasgow; stayed at Mosscroft | |
The result was that he was appointed general manager of all the works—in fact, practically of the whole company. This was the first of those celebrated reports for which Merz became so famous in after years. Up to that time, a report was like an annual report of a company, or if it were anything special it was generally of an exculpatory character. Merz's reports, on the contrary, were always constructive. He put his finger on the sore spot, and he not only suggested the cure, but he made it quite clear how the said cure could be carried out, and, if he were allowed, he would himself see that this was done. |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 231 | |
1871-01-14/-23 | of 1 St George's Road, Glasgow; stayed at Mosscroft | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1871 | began lecturing for the Lit. & Phil. | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 229 |
1871 | manufacturer chemist, lodger in household of Elizabeth Thomson, lodging keeper, 1 St Georges Road, Glasgow Barony, Lanarkshire, Scotland | Scottish census: Parish: Glasgow Barony; ED: 100; Page: 18; Line: 3; Roll: CSSCT1871_138 |
1871-05-29 | visited Mosscroft: "came and admired Baby" | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1871-08-19/-26 | stayed at Mosscroft | |
1871-12-16 | ||
1871-12-29/1872-01-02 | ||
1872-01-24/-02-05 | ||
1872-06-11/-18 | ||
1872-12-05/-10 | ||
1872-12-14/-23 | ||
1873-01-08/-02-19 | ||
1873-06-07/-23 | ||
1873-08-04/-18 | ||
1873-09-22 | became engaged to Alice Mary Richardson, whom he had met through the Spence Watsons, as she was a regular visitor at Mosscroft, their home | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 234, 236 |
1873-11-19 | Newcastle Monthly Meeting (men & women), held at Newcastle. Jno Theodore Merz son of Philip Merz and Charlotte his wife, the latter deceased, & Alice Mary Richardson, daughter of Edward Richardson & Jane his wife, the former deceased. Parties liberated. | minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1867–74, TWAS MF 170 |
1873-12-17 | manager of manufactory, of 12 Regent Terrace, Gateshead; m. Alice Mary Richardson, at Newcastle Friends' meeting house; witnesses Edward Richardson and Louis Leisler (Alice's brother and Theo's uncle) | The Friend NS XIV.Jan:21; The British Friend; minutes of Newcastle Monthly Meeting 1867–74, TWAS MF 170; marriage certificate; Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 237-38 |
The wedding, which took place at the meeting house in Pilgrim Street, was extremely quiet, the only guests beyond the family at the wedding breakfast at South Ashfield being my uncle, Louis Leisler, and my cousin, Franz v. Rottenburg, who came from Glasgow for the occasion. After the wedding we proceeded on our wedding-tour to the Continent . . . . |
Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 238 | |
1874-02-08 | of 12 Regents Terrace, Gateshead; played Duke Frederick in As You Like It at Mosscroft | Mosscroft visitors' book |
1874-04-16/-17 | stayed at Mosscroft | |
Children: | Charles Hesterman (Charles Hesterman Merz, 1874–1940, electrical engineer—see Oxford Dictionary of National Biography), Norbert (1877–1948), Theresa (1879–1958), Ernest Leisler (1881–1909). | The Friend; The British Friend; Annual Monitor; Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (2004) Oxford University Press; Bootham School Register (1971); GRO index |
1874-10-05 | merchant, of 12 Regent Terrace, Gateshead-on-Tyne | son's birth certificate; The Friend XIV Nov:348 |
declined an invitation to join the Society of Friends because, with the memory of the Franco-German war fresh in his mind, he couldn't accept the Quaker peace testimony | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 232 | |
1874 | having taken up residence in Newcastle, and a place on the board of the Blaydon Chemical Company, retired from the Tharsis Company, but was re-engaged, on a third of his previous salary, as advisory technical manager | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 245-48 |
I do not think he got on very well with his Scotch directors. They could not but feel jealous of his greater talents. Not long after he had married my sister, it was intimated to him that he must reside in Glasgow, whereupon he resigned his position. He never cared about making money. He was ambitious of success, of the success, if you will, of making a concern profitable, but he himself never seemed to care whether he were paid or not. Before his resignation, the Tharsis directors had proposed to pay him a retaining fee of £500 a year, so that they might freely consult him. It was said that they had heard he was being applied to by a rival company—a rumour without any foundation. With Merz's conscientious thoroughness, this appointment soon meant as much work as if he had continued to be general manager, so much so that his friends remonstrated and he finally severed his connexion with the company. |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 231-32 | |
c. 1875 |
About this time Merz very kindly undertook to manage the Blaydon chemical works. What he did is a standing marvel. The alkali trade had gone to pot (to use a vulgar phrase), and the manure trade was not much better, and yet he managed to secure to the Richardson family a steady 5 per cent. on their invested capital. It was an arduous task and specially distasteful, as being on such a small scale, to one who had directed the huge Tharsis company, but he patiently set to work and succeeded. The remuneration was insignificant, and, indeed, when it is considered that he started the unfortunate Hebburn colour works largely with the view of benefitting the Blaydon company, it may be said that his remuneration was almost a minus quantity. |
Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson: 232 |
1875 & 1891 | letters to Rachel Albright held by Birmingham City Archives, MS 1509/4/1 | A2A |
1878-03 | in Spain with his wife | Elizabeth Spence Watson's "Family Chronicles"; Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1878-05 | published 'The Philosophy of Kant' in Macmillan's Magazine | Pall Mall Gazette, 1878-04-29 |
1878-06 | sailed for Canada | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1879-05-28 | daughter born at 12 Regent Terrace, Gateshead | Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, 1879-05-29 |
1881-01-04 | gave a lecture on 'The Philosophy of Leibnitz' at the Lit. & Phil. | Newcastle Courant, 1881-01-28 |
1881 | of The Quarries, Granger Park Road, Elswick, Newcastle; household consists of their family, a cook, a nurse, and two housemaids; travelling with his wife | TNA: RG 11/5055 f159 p17; The Friend XXI.Dec:329 |
at the suggestion of Robert Spence Watson, became a promoter and director of Joseph Swan's electric light company | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 256-57 | |
1882-01-01 | first-footed at Bensham Grove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1882-04-24 | of 1 Stafford Tce, Kensington | |
c. 1882 | belonged to the (Newcastle) Essay Club | Memoirs of John Wigham Richardson (1911), Glasgow: 254 |
1882-07-17/-24 | of Kensington; stayed at Bensham Grove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1882-12-22 | delivered the last of his course of lectures on 'An Introduction to the Study of Mental Philosophy', at the Lit. & Phil.; was presented with a copy of the Imperial Dictionary, as a token of gratitude | Newcastle Courant, 1882-12-29 |
1883 | made holiday trip on the Continent; thereafter frequently holidayed in France and Germany | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 275, 279 |
1883-04-21 | of The Quarries | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1883 | of The Quarries, Grainger Park road, Newcastle | Kelly's Directory |
1884 | published Leibniz | British Library catalogue; Aberdeen Free Press, 1885-09-14 |
1884/1892 | director of Charles Tennant & Partners | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 251 |
1884 | elected to the Council of the Durham College of Science, on Robert Spence Watson's proposal | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 288 |
1886 | of The Quarries, Grainger Park road, Newcastle | Kelly's Directory |
DCL of the University of Durham | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 288 | |
1887 | chemical manfr., of Grainger Park road | History and Directory of Newcastle upon Tyne |
1887-10-01/-02 | stayed at Bensham Grove | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1888-02-24 | of The Quarries | |
1888-12-12 | had subscribed £150 to the Durham College of Science | Newcastle Daily Chronicle |
1889 | became a director of the Newcastle-upon-Tyne Electric Supply Company Ltd | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 263 |
1890 | chemical manufacturer, of The Quarries, Grainger Park road | Ward's Directory of Newcastle-on-Tyne |
1890-06-21 | acted as one of the sureties in the administration of the estate of his brother-in-law Edward Richardson | admon of Edward Richardson |
1891-03-05 | gave a lecture at the Friends' meeting-house, Mill-lane, Newcastle, on 'Modern Science in its Bearing upon Religious Belief' | Northern Echo, 1891-03-05 |
1891 | not found in census | |
week ending 1892-01-08 | chemical manufacturer, of The Quarries, Newcastle; among the first subscribers to, and chairman of the directors of, Charles Tennant & Co., of Carnoustie, registered in Scotland | Dundee Courier, 1892-01-09 |
1892/1904 | correspondence with Lord Kelvin, now at Cambridge University Library, Department of Manuscripts, ref. Add 7342, 7656 | A2A |
c. 1894 | had been a director of Laing Wharton and Down; became a director of British Thomson-Houston | John Rowland (1960) Progress in Power, London: Newman Neame |
1894 | of The Quarries, Grainger Park road, Newcastle | Kelly's Directory |
1894-01 | "Beloved Theo working hard at his Book—rising without fail at 5 a.m." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1895-03 | book to be "On the History of European Thought in the XIX Century". "We hope it will be before the world in a year's time." | |
1895-09-13 | "Theodore off to Grasmere for a month." | |
1896-03 |
Left Nov. 15, 95, for Vevey on account of Theodore's very poor health—4 months of quiet and joy in his restoration at the Hotel Monnet where we lived en pension at 8 frs a day each—one after another of his nervous symptoms left and we turned our faces homewards on Feb. 15th [ . . . ] |
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1896-04 | went to the funeral of his uncle Louis Leisler, in Frankfurt | |
1896-12-01 |
Vol. 1 of Theo's "History of European Thought in the XIX Century" arrived yesterday. A great joy and satisfaction—nicely got up by "Blackwood"—red back—good prints and paper. Letters of congratulations already pouring in. Theo's better health a cause for daily thankfulness. |
|
1896/1914 | published A History of European Thought in the Nineteenth Century in four volumes (4th edition published posthumously, 1923) | British Library catalogue; Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 310 |
1896-12-25 | of The Quarries | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1897-01-22 | interview with Merz published in the Pall Mall Gazette | Pall Mall Gazette, 1897-01-22 |
1897-12 |
In May we all crossed via Hook of Holland to Amsterdam—Charles joining us—then we stopped in Hanover and then went on to Oderhaus The Harz [ . . . ] a very merry month at the primitive forester's house—ascended The "Brocken" and those who were able took many long walks. The pine woods glorious: Norbert photographed some vistas of these very successfully. Teresa and Ernest afterwards went to Worms—Theo and I to Frankfurt and Thaun. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1898-09 | "Theo and I went to Cork to see Charles and then on to Killarney with him—a most delightful week." | |
1898 | chemical manufacturer, of The quarries, Grainger Park rd | Ward's Directory of Newcastle-on-Tyne |
1898-10 | visited Cork and Killarney with his wife, to discuss business with son Charles | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 271 |
1898-12-17 |
Then we all went to Dawlish Devonshire to celebrate our Silver Wedding—Caro with us. It was a most delightful month at the Inn close to station the only disappointment that Charles could not be spared from Cork to join us. We read Sir Charles Lyell's life aloud and had many enchanting walks and excursions in the beautiful neighbourhood. After that went on to Bournemouth and took up our abode at the Weston Hall Hotel—Theo and I and Teresa, Norbert and Ernest returned to Newcastle to work and Aunt Car stayed at West Knoll." |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1898 | after the death of Robert Foster, bought The Quarries West to preserve the garden intact, renting the house out to two elderly sisters called Burnup | Liz O'Donnell: 'Teresa Merz Timeline' |
1899-05 | "Went to Germany with Theo." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1899-12-01 | with his wife, had subscribed £100.0.0 to the Bootham School Building Fund | The Friend XXXIX:Supplement |
1900-04 |
Had an exquisite time in North Wales—first at the Waterloo Hotel Bettws y Coed where we read the Life of David Cox. Norbert, Teresa and Ernest climbed Moel Siabod and we took many lovely shorter walks. Charles and Norbert with us for Easter. From Bettws we went to Barmough for 1 week. Then Teresa Ernest and I home by Chester and Manchester. Theo to London: he and Charles kept there by parliamentary Bills connected with Electric Lighting. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1900-05-17 | vice-chairman of the Newcastle Electrical Supply Company; gave evidence to a select committee of the House of Commons, on Electric Power | Shields Daily Gazette, 1900-05-18 |
1900 | retired as managing director of the Blaydon Chemical Company, which he had been for 25 years | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 248, 274 |
1900-10 |
Theo resigns his position at Blaydon Chemical Works—remains Director—Norbert appointed Director of Co. also George B.R. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1900-10-10/-17 | "a delightful week at Heugh Folds—Theo and I." | |
1900-12-25 | of The Quarries | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1901 | his wife living at The Quarries, Grainger Park Rd, Elswick, Newcastle, with sister, two housemaids, kitchen maid and cook | RG 13/4773 f112 p29 |
1901-06 |
Had a delightful 3 weeks at Vevey—Teresa and Ernest with us 2 weeks—then returned to Cambridge and the rest of us came home via Germany Rothenburg an der Tauber and Colmar and Bonn very enjoyable. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1901 | retired from the British Thomson-Houston Company | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 274 |
1901/1916 | chairman of the Newcastle Electric Supply Company | |
1902-01-13 |
Theo well this winter, in spite of increased responsible work connected with Electrical Supply Co. of which he is Chairman: he has resigned his Directorship of British Thomson Houston Co. so his monthly journies to London cease. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1902-02-11 |
My Beloved Theo complaining of his eyesight—The study and work in winter taxes it too much. |
|
1902-04-02 |
A happy holiday in Cornwall. Ernest with us most of time. Charles for 2 days and Caro the whole. Mullion, Lands End, Penzance, Malvern were our stopping places. The week in London as we went to Cornwall most interesting—hearing the "Power Bill" opposed in Com: Room of House of Commons. Charles astonished Counsel and general public who listened to his answers to cross-examination. Stayed at Metropole with R.S.W. and others—a fascinating time. |
|
1902-04-07 |
Theo having his arm and hand medically rubbed to see if feeling of cramp will be cured. This hamper to his writing power a trial to him. |
|
1902-07-30 | "Theo and I had an enchanting week at Heugh Folds [ . . . ]" | |
1902-09-26 | visited Bensham Grove with wife, Theresa & Ernest, "when we drew one of my two bottles of Hochheimer of 1802 & found it clear sound & delicious." | Bensham Grove visitors' books |
1903-02-26 | "Theo and I preparing to start for Rome tomorrow." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1903-05-02 | "Theo and I had a most refreshing 7 weeks holiday: the 3 weeks in Rome a rare treat." | |
1903-05-30 | "His power of deep and steady work still wonderful—rising at 5 a.m. daily." | |
1904-04-20 |
Just returned from our 6 weeks holiday—first 3 weeks in Isle of White (Daish's Hotel Shanklin) then 2 weeks at Grand Hotel Lyndhurst. The New Forest a wonderful one—Caro with us all the time—Ernest one week at Lyndhurst [ . . . ]" The Whites came over to see us while we were at Lyndhurst Gregory in a motor car! |
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1904-10-29 | "Theo and I had a charming week at Cromer [ . . . ]" | |
1905-01-27 | "Theo and I both rheumatic but otherwise well." | |
1905-04-07 | chairman of the County of Durham Electrical Power Distribution Company Limited | Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 1905-04-07 |
1905-04-07 | "Theo went north yesterday to stay with Prof. J. Arthur Thomson and is to receive the LL.D. degree this morning." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1905-06-26 |
Theo and I had a delicious week at Lugano—ten days of enchantment in Venice and then to Worms and Ems for the cure. Dr. Schantz very skilful specialist operated on jaw and thus a "canal" was made which can be washed out daily and the catarrh in the nose we hope cured thereby with patience. Theo upset by this treatment but recovering nicely now. Came home after 8 weeks absence via "Hook" [ . . . ] |
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1905-12-19 | "Theo not well—much troubled with exzema." | |
1906-01 |
Went to Braid Hills Hotel Edinburgh on Friday Dec. 22, Theo and I—Teresa and Caro [ . . . ] Beloved Theo better for the rest and change to Edinbro but taking it easily for a while. |
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1906-04-07 | awarded LLD, University of Aberdeen | The Times |
1906-05 |
Theo and I had a splendid rest at Sidmouth (Fortfield Hotel) Caro, Mabel and Molly being in lodgings near. Theo better in health than for 2 years. After 3 weeks stay we had a very happy week at West Knoll—then to London—visiting Dora in her new home at Chobham. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1906-07-11 |
King and Queen came to open College Hall. Theo was presented and made a low bow—a stately function. |
|
1906-07-31 | "Theo after I returned went for a week to London, staying at Charles' Chambers D6 The Albany." | |
1906-08-14 | "Theo—Charles Norbert Teresa and I put up at The Star Inn Alnwick & had a nice quiet evening together Theo playing Billiards with the 2 sons." | |
1906-10-24 | "Theo quite set up with our pleasant 10 days rest at Matlock Bath and has begun his Chapter on "Of Nature"." | |
1906 | published On the Development of mathematical thought during the 19th Century | IDIH, accessed 2011-05-11 |
1906/1913 | of The Quarries, Gra[i]nger Park Road, Elswick, Newcastle-upon-Tyne | The Friend |
1907-04-11 |
Theo and I set off for our continental holiday—stopped at the cozy D6 The Albany and entertained very friends at Restaurants—Ernest much with us. Crossed via Dover and Calais to Aix la Chapelle—lost both big and small luggage en route but got it back in time. From Aachen to Works—a very nice visit there then via Strassburg and Lausanne to Milan through Simplon Tunnel. Met Nelly in Milan and next day proceeded to Perugia. A glorious week there, visiting Assisi for the day. After that to Vevey where we spent a most happy 2 weeks—Charles with us for the last 4 days—a great joy. Dr. and Madame Curtius also came as our guests to the Hotel Mounnet from Sunday to Friday. We travelled home via Paris and met pleasant people and altogether had a beautiful time. Theo very well and walking much round Vevey. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1907-06-22 | "Theo very busy with extended Sunbeam Lamp business—so not yet free to dictate his Chapter on "The Beautiful." | |
1907-10-08 | "Theo and I leaving on 10th for London and Bexhill on Sea—a little autumn holiday." | |
1907-11-27 | "Theo burdened with electrical business and its financing but always up and at his lit: work at 5 a.m. [ . . . ]" | |
1907-12-25 | "Theo in good heart as Electric Debenture Stock been over-applied for—a grand reward after his labours." | |
1908-05-15 | "Reached home after being 4 weeks at Hindhead and 2 or 3 days in London." | |
1908-05-20 | "Beloved Theo 68—he has not been well the last 2 months—constant headaches and colds [ . . . ]." | |
1908-06-06 |
Dr. Ousten performed the perforation of the antrum on Theo's left side of mouth—Dr. Ruxton in attendance—done here ("The Quarries"). A great anxiety—but safely over and his general health after 1 week's care much restored. |
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1909-04-05 |
Theo and I left for our tour abroad. Slept 3 nights at The Albany—crossed via Dover and Calais with Ernest on the 8th right through to Dijon—had good brilliant Easter there "Hotel de la Cloche" with Helen and Robin who were visiting the Samages. From there to Vevey—3 weeks stay at Hotel Monnet. Curtiuses came for 3 days and later Charles Caro Mrs. R. and Edith. From Vevey to Innsbruck via Zurich—fine weather all the time—then via Wurzburg Darmstadt to Worms—Home via Brussels and Ostend—to Charing X Hotel—Ernest with us every evening. Home on 18th to find Rachel here—she is lovely and good. |
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1909-06-21 | "Theo with Dr. Kellner at Old Charlton—reading at the B. Museum all this week and next Sat. going to Mr. Edwin Waterhouses Feldemore by arrangement." | |
1909/1917 | member of the Senate of the University of Durham | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz: 288 |
1910 | chairman, County of Durham Electrical Power Distribution | Benwell Community Project (1978) The Making of a Ruling Class. Two Centuries of Capital Development on Tyneside. Newcastle |
of The Quarries, Gra[i]nger Park Road, Elswick, Newcastle-upon-Tyne; chairman, Tyneside Tramways & Tramroads Co.; chairman, Newcastle Electric Supply Co. | Benwell Community Project (1978) | |
1910-04-22 |
Mr Percy Bigland and his son arrived as our guests and stayed 3 nights. Much interesting talk with him and the first sitting to him for the painting of Theo's portrait is arranged for May 4th at the studio 29 Tite Street Chelsea. The artist told me these days with Theo will be a very big help when he begins to paint—having become acquainted with the varied expressions. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1910-05-02 | "Theo's portrait excellent. Mr. Percy Bigland asks for 3 more sittings so my Beloved will have to return as we go north and home tomorrow." | |
1910-06-23 | "Theo gone to London to give Percy Bigland 2 more sittings." | |
1910-08-13 | "Theo's Portrait safely arrived and looks excellent in dining room opposite that of Uncle Louis—The price Mr. Percy Bigland charges £175—it is a great joy to have my Beloved's likeness in oils." | |
1911 | author and director of several co's, living with his wife, daughter and sister in 12 rooms at The Quarries, Newcastle; 3 servants | RG14PN30607 RG78PN1753 RD558 SD3 ED29 SN86 |
1911-07-09 | "Theo working hard at proof—College affairs and Electrical." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
industrial chemist; author of A History of European Thought in the Nineteenth Century | Oxford Dictionary of National Biography | |
1912-05-28 | "Theo meanwhile came to N.C. for a Sunbeam Lamp Co. meeting—a worrying and dying concern." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1912-07-14 | "Theo turned suddenly faint at tea time. Dr. Ruxton says his heart is weak and we feel anxious and nervous about this." | |
1913-11-06 | "Theo has much headache but works away notwithstanding." | |
1914-01-14 | "Theo does not at present begin work at 5 a.m.—he has not strength for it which is a trouble for him." | |
1914-06-20 | "Dr. Percival's verdict that Theo's good eye has cataract forming on it knocks us down—he is noble and brave and says "if only I am permitted to finish my History!"." | |
1914-07-17 |
Lit. and Phil. Com. asked Theo to be "President" in a very gratifyingly worded letter—a great honour for him—nevertheless he as declined it—fearing he would not be an active one—owing to his other occupations which are sufficient for his strength. He is pushing on with the final Volume—writing an Epilogue. |
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1914-08-01 | "Theo finished his Vol. IV. and sent it to Blackwood—his mind is freer and when index and proof are corrected his great work will be completed." | |
1914-09-24 | "Theo's eyesight no better: he bears this cross with wonderful heroism." | |
1914-12-08 | "The Issue of Theo's Vol. really out—packages containing 5 copies arrived from Blackwood—so the splendid work which has taken 30 years altogether to complete is before the world." | |
1914 | Ph D., D.C.L. The Quarries, Grainger Park road | Kelly's Directory |
published Philosophical Classics for English Readers 8 | British Library catalogue | |
1915-01-16 | "We have cheer in the notices—reviews and letters Theo receives about his book—he says he scarcely believes now he is the author of the great work!!" | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1915-02-11 |
Dr. Percival kindly called to look at Theo's eye to see if cataract is ripe for operation: he says no a year more will probably be needed. In most ways one feels thankful to have the ordeal postponed—meanwhile Theo uses his marred sight very heroically and unstintingly. |
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1915-03-07 |
Theo been in bed a fortnight with real Influenza. Doctor Ruxton insisted on a nurse for the night as I was scarcely up to it. A very competent Miss Brown is a great comfort and I have quiet refreshing sleep in Spare Room. Depression and cough trying symptoms—but we trust progress is made though it must be slow the Doctor says. [ . . . ] Theo delegates all Elec. Supply meetings and business connected therewith to Mr. J. H. Armstrong—it will be the first time that he has missed making his long speech before the shareholders since he was made Chairman of the Company. |
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1915-03-12 | "My Beloved steadily progressing but not allowed to sit up yet—but his courage and strength are returning. Dr. comes daily. Nurse still here for nights." | |
1915-03-24 | "Theo gets down to the Study for the day and we are all much encouraged about him—he himself also. Nurse here till Saturday." | |
1915-06-12 | "Theo very active over Electric Supply and Blaydon Businesses." | |
1915-07-30 | "[ . . . ] Theo not able to see the guests as he is laid up with an affection of the kidneys all the week." | |
1915-09-19 | "Theo and I were at Skinburness Hotel for the first week of this month and were much rested—gorgeous weather. Theo not well of late—but better for the change and Dr. Fuxton's advice." | |
1915-11-22 |
This week Theo has resigned his Chairmanship of the Electric Supply Co. All the Directors made nice speeches about his powers and zeal for the Company: he remains a Director: we have £150 less yearly: it will be a relief to him not to have the onus of the Annual Meeting in March. |
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1915 | published Religion and Science: A Philosophical Essay | British Library catalogue |
1916-06-09 | "Theo rheumatic in his left arm—his eyesight too very baffling—but he is heroic in the extreme. | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1916-08-14 | "Theo much troubled with neuralgia and rheumatism." | |
1916-11-10 | "Theo begun his "Reminiscences"—dictating to Miss Taylor two mornings a week—diving into his Father's old papers in spite of his poor sight." | |
1917-03-21 | "Theo fairly well—he feels Mr. Joseph Wilson's death which closes his long connection with the Blaydon Chemical Works practically." | |
1917-06-23 | "Beloved Theo asked Dr. Percival again about the Cataract on his eye and he wishes him to consult an Oculist in London Dr. Collins before deciding on the operation." | |
1917-07-26 | "Theo caught a chill and was in bed with fever for 2 days." | |
1917-08-17 | chemical manufacturer, of The Quarries, Newcastle upon Tyne; made his will; wife Alice and sons Charles and Norbert to be trustees and executors; £200 to the trustees of the late Robert Spence Watson to be held according to the terms of the latter's will; £100 to his wife, and the same amount to each son; all in trust to Alice, Charles, and Norbert; trustees to transfer half the trust premises to his wife, the other half to be used to pay her the income for life, and subsequently in equal shares to their children; Percy Corder one of the witnesses | will |
1917-08-26 | "Theo laid up with inflammation of gland—and missing his usual Directors meetings which worries him." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1917-09-16 | "Theo in bed since last Wed. suffering pain and fever and is very low—but has leave to get up this afternoon." | |
1917-09-23 |
Dr. Drummond came to advise (by Ruxton's wish) he fears the pain is caused by a calculus in the bladder and further investigations and tests must be gone through. Meanwhile bed is ordered. It may mean much suffering for Theo in the near future, but he is heroic, and we have countless blessings and helps. [ . . . ] Theo wrote to one of his friends lately "we are all on the brink of a precipice." I think he has felt something serious internally hanging over him. |
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1917-09-26 |
Theo was moved into the Nursing Home Gresham Place—a nice room. I with him all the day—prizing every minute of his precious company—he is patient and unselfish and keen in interest for everything surrounding literary and business matters. |
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1917-10-02 |
A very serious operation over—a large stone taken from the bladder. The next few days will be fearfully anxious. |
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1917-10-04 | "He maintains ground, pulse good—pretty good nights—Doctors and nurses satisfied. I sit beside him twice a day for a short while." | |
1917-10-10 |
Theo progressing very favourably—a great blessing to have the first critical week over. Mr. Rutherford Morison the skilful surgeon is very satisfied with the conditions and hopes the wound will be healed in 2 weeks time. |
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1917-10-16 |
The wound heals well, but his cough and temperature at night has made us anxious. Doctors are watching these symptoms with care and not allowing him to be on sofa while the bed is made, just now. |
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1917-10-21 | "Theo progressing slowly but safely: cough better, up on chair ¾ of an hour yesterday." | |
1917-10-31 |
Theo steadily improved and now has Doctor's leave to come home tomorrow—he is very weak—but can walk about the room: he longs to be home: he has been in the one room at Gresham House 5 weeks. A merciful and wonderful restoration. If only he can avoid chill and get his strength up again. We have engaged Mrs. Staples a semi-trained nurse to help him for a short time as Theo will need great care and some nursing for a week or two. Gresham House is well managed—Sisters and Nurses very efficient and nice. |
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1917-11-01 | "Theo safely back." | |
1918-01-01 | "[ . . . ] Theo is well enough to resume his literary work—and he has great encouragement—from America and Lord Haldane and other philosophers come praise of his "History" and his "Essay." | |
1918-02-27 | "Since our return Theo been able to take up business meetings again." | |
1918-05-08 |
This afternoon Father consulted Dr. Wardale Oculist about his eye—the verdict quite decisive that it is not nearly ready for operation yet. He is somewhat disappointed as he is eager to study and read for his further philosophical writings. I cannot but feel relieved fearing the effects of operation on his general health. |
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1919-01-08 |
My Beloved confessing that it is now an effort to get up at 7 o'clock: the cold tries him sorely, various rugs and bottles and gaiters and mits fail to keep him really warm. He is progressing with his "Fragment" [ . . . ] |
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1919-01-25 | "Mr. Wardale the Oculist says operation not yet possible tho' cataract has sensibly developed the last months. Theo very disappointed to have to go on waiting." | |
1919-06-04 | "Theodore just concluded his "Fragment" which will be published by Blackwood—a fine and noble bit of writing." | |
1919-06-10 | "Have had a p.c. from Theodore at Worms—quite good news of them all and Helen received Theo's note on her 80th birthday." | |
1919-06-29 | "Had a pleasant week in Edinbro' and satisfactory interview with Mr. Blackwood who seemed very pleased to publish again for Theo." | |
1919-07-26 | "Beloved Theo active still in Electrical—Blaydon and College Affairs." | |
1919-10-11 |
Three most delightful letters from South Africa—good and intensely interesting news—especially about Charles' conversation with General Smuts when he was asked if any relation of the Author of "History of European Thought"—and Smuts' remark, "I am more glad to meet you as the son of your Father than as an Engineer"—he had also read "Religion and Science," an unexpected encouragement to beloved Theo this eulogy. |
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1919-11-16 | "My beloved Theo had a severe heart attack brought on by the intense cold: he was in the sitting room at the time." | |
1919-11-17 |
No sleep till after 4, when we made tea with the electric kettle. Dr. Ruxton orders quiet and warmth and trusts there will be no further attack—but I feel very anxious for at the age of 79 there is not much strength to resist: he had a busy week of meetings and we went out to have tea with Jane Sturge one evening and quite lately he said he was "very well." The completion of his "Fragment" has been accomplished and "Blackwood" told to whom copies of it are to be sent. He is perfect in patience. |
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1919-11-18 | "Theo very much better, no heart trouble again—but he stays quietly in bed—thankful to be out of pain." | |
1919-11-19 | "Theo had a fairly good day up to tea time when he had a slight heart attack—discouraging and anxious. Dr. thought him better but said he must continue in bed for warmth and rest." | |
1919-11-21 | "After more restful night Theo rather better, but no exertion is yet allowed: he feels very weak. I am trying to feed him up with strengthening diet." | |
1919-11-22 | "Beloved still improving and liking to hear "Times" and all it says about "Einstein and Newton."." | |
1919-11-23 | "Dr. Ruxton satisfied that Theo is much better." | |
1919-11-24 | "Theo did not sleep well but nevertheless is a little stronger: Dr. says we must go very cautiously as to more exertion." | |
1919-11-28 | "Theo dressed and in Sitting Room for first time—much better." | |
1919-11-30 | "Theo very easily tired—but we trust is really gaining a little each day." | |
1919-12-06 | "Theo decidedly stronger but not yet been in garden." | |
1919-12-16 | "Theo going to drive down to Elec. Supply Meetings." | |
1919 | published A Fragment on the Human Mind | British Library catalogue |
1920-02-14 |
Theo much "set up" (tho' he is always humble and modest) to have reviews and notices and letters in high praise of "The Fragment." He is now busy selecting his philosophical books which in March are to be given to Armstrong College a liberal and valuable addition to its library: about 1500 Vols. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1920-03-27 | "Annual Elec. Supply Meeting passed off well. Charles down for it and Theo able to be present at Vice Chairman." | |
1920-07-09 | "My Beloved is once more disappointed by Mr. Wardale saying the cataract is not yet ready for removal. He and I have quiet blessed days together—tho' not merry as of long ago. Most interesting books we have always on hand." | |
1920-10-22 |
Our 2 weeks at Blanchland successful and refreshing and the quiet days with my Beloved very good. He began to dictate again "A Crisis in Thought" his marvellous memory clear as ever on deep philosophical subjects |
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1921 | of The Quarries, west side, Grainger Park road, Newcastle | Kelly's Directory |
1921-01-01 | "My beloved in bed with neuralgia and cough and cold." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1921-01-09 | "Theo rather stronger—gets up at 10.30—but as he says he "does not bob up" as he used to do after illness." | |
1921-04-08 |
Beloved Theo at Blaydon Works this day—his men friends Mr. Sisson, Prof. Hoernlé, Prof. Gilchrist often come in to talk with him and our Vicar Canon Newsom occasionally with eager interest in listening to Theo's views and wisdom and learning. These talks of course a great boon for Theo—as reading with his own dear eyes impossible. |
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1921-04-14 | "Theo gone to Blaydon today in spite of frost and bitter wind." | |
1921-06-12 |
Theodore's eyesight is worse—it is a pain for him that he cannot distinguish the flowers and plants now. We have made an appointment with Mr. Wardale the Oculist in the hope that he can remove the cataract soon. |
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1921 | author and company director, living in 12 rooms at The Quarries, Grainger Park Rd, Newcastle-on-Tyne, with his wife, their daughter Teresa, a cook, a waiting maid, and a housemaid | RG 15/25298 RD558 SD2 ED4 SN161 |
1921-06-28 | "Mr. Wardale again defers the operation on Theo's eye." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1921-08-20 | "Theo in bed with sore throat and headache but not feverish and able to enjoy listening to reading." | |
1921-08-31 | "Theo began to dictate again, he presided yesterday at Tyneside Tramways General Meeting—he is wonderful." | |
1921-12-31 | "Theo now staying in bed with a cold in his head which we trust will quickly disappear as he has no fever." | |
1922-01-10 | "Theo out at meetings and therefore better." | |
1922-01-25 | "Theo dictating "Theses" very terse and interesting." | |
1922-02-10 | "Theo continuing his Theses, and we are keenly enjoying Carlyle's Life by Froude together." | |
1922-03-03 |
Theo and I had a very quiet rest at Saltburn in mostly fine weather. We both had colds which rather marred our ten days stay. [ . . . ] Now Theo has acute neuralgia to contend against and is very suffering and low down—in bed—Dr. orders rest and warmth and hot fomentations on his forehead: As Theo says, "at my age I do not bob up again so quickly." |
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1922-03-03 | "Theo still in bed—very weak with the continued pain—but Dr. Buxton sees a slight improvement in his condition." | |
1922-03-21 | of The Quarries, Grainger Park-road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne; d. there | grant of probate; IDIH; Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz |
"Dr. John Theodore Merz, the famous electrician and scientific author, died in Newcastle yesterday, aged 82." | Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 1922-03-22 | |
DEATH OF DR. J.T. MERZ. Pioneer of the Electrical Industry. Services to Tyneside. His Contributions to Philosophy It is with much regret that we have to announce the death in his 82nd year of Dr. John Theodore Merz, which occurred at his residence, The Quarries, Grainger Park Road, Newcastle, this morning. Dr. John Theodore Merz was born in Manchester in 1840. His father, Dr. Philip Merz, was headmaster of Chorlton High School, one of the pioneer institutions in higher education in Manchester. After spending some years at German universities and taking the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Bonn, Dr. Merz went to Townsend's chemical works at Glasgow in 1867, and in the following year he was sent to the great works of the Tharsis Sulphur and Copper Company at Hebburn. He afterwards became general manager of the Tharsis Works at Birmingham, Glasgow, Hebburn, and South Wales, and his annual reports became noteworthy statements of constructive policy. He further undertook the management of the Blaydon Chemical Works, where his practical knowledge and skill in organisation soon told favourably on the Company's undertaking. It is, however, by the work that he did as a pioneer of the industrial application of electricity for lighting, power, and transport that Dr. Merz was most widely known in business circles. In conjunction with his brother-in-law, the late Dr. Robert Spence Watson, he was associated with the Swan Electric Light Company as a director in 1881, which was the first electric lamp manufacturing company founded in England. He was one of the founders of the Newcastle-upon-Tyne Electric Supply Co., Ltd., of which he became the second chairman, and his services to which, especially in the early stages of its history, were invaluable. He was chairman of the Tyneside Tramways and Tramroads Company, and was also actively connected with the County of Durham Electric Power and Electric Power Distribution Companies. He thus rendered services of a high order to the great industrial community of Tyneside and the counties of Northumberland and Durham. A mathematician of the highest rank he presented a rare combination of applied science in industry coupled with clear thinking and sound business judgment. His mastery over, and lucid marshalling of, statistics proved of the highest value to all the companies with which he was connected. His business undertakings alone would have taxed the strength and abilities of most men, but side by side with all these activities, Dr. Merz's literary output was of the highest order. His publishing period extending over 35 years, it may truly be said that the period of preparation and study was lifelong. In 1884 he published "Leibnitz," one of Messrs. Blackwood's philosophical classics. There appeared in 1896 the first volume of his truly monumental work entitled "History of European Thought in the Nineteenth Century." The second volume appeared in 1906, the third in 1912 and the fourth and concluding volume in 1914. His brother-in-law the late Mr. John Wigham Richardson, writing in the Press said: "The inner circle of his friends know to some extent how great are his intellectual powers, but how few of the citizens of Newcastle-upon-Tyne realise that an author has for more than 20 years been producing in their midst the most original and the most important work which has been written in our time, a work which sums up all the scientific work and all the philosophic thought of the Nineteenth Century." This colossal undertaking was followed by "Religion and Science" in 1915 and "A Fragment on the Human Mind" in 1919, published when the author was in his eightieth year. Dr. Merz was connected with Armstrong College almost since its foundation. He was a much valued member of its Council and its principal Committees. He represented the College on the Senate of the University of Durham for several years. He enriched the College Library by the presentation of the "Merz Mathematical Library," and he rendered valuable service to the city as a member of the Free Library Committee. He received the honorary degree of LL.D. from Aberdeen University, and D.C.L. from Durham University in recognition of his distinguished literary work. Dr. Merz was a regular attender at the meeting of the Society of Friends. He married Alice Mary, daughter of the late Mr. Edward Richardson, of Beech Grove, Newcastle, who survives him, together with two sons, Mr. Charles H. Merz and Mr. Norbert Merz, and one daughter, Miss Teresa Merz. |
Newcastle Evening Chronicle, 1922-03-21 | |
LATE DR. THEODORE MERZ. Striking Tribute from the Vicar of Newcastle. Continuing his series of Lenten addresses on "Religion and the Higher Life" at St. Nicholas' Cathedral, Newcastle, last night, the Vicar (the Rev. Canon G.E. Newsom) made sympathetic reference to the death of Dr. Theodore Merz. Dr. Merz, he said, was an example of both the great aspects of science. In his dealings with electricity he was an illustration of progress, by his able organisation bringing light to the town and to the household, making a demand for labour, and thereby providing a livelihood for many. At the same time, Dr. Merz, devoted an immense amount of toil to the theoretical side of science, carrying out the great impulse towards truth and the ultimate meaning of the universe. He was a man of considerable learning and his labours were a fine example to us. |
Newcastle Daily Chronicle, 1922-03-24 | |
At 11:30 my glorious and beloved Theo entered the "Better Land" after a nearly 3 weeks' illness, unconsciousness for 3 days. He was nearly 82 and we have been married 48½ years—blessed years. Now a great light has gone out: he said to me during his illness, "I am ready to depart." He was patient and saintly in his sufferings. The 2 nurses were very efficient. Our children's presence an unspeakable comfort and the many letters of understanding sympathy speaking of his rarely noble intellectual gifts. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript | |
1922-03-23 |
The Burial was carried out with great solemnity. A hand Bier covered with most beautiful flowers bore the beloved body to the grave where Ernest is laid. I did not go—but a large assembly gathered of relatives and friends and wide is the sympathy shown—and the love and respect and admiration shown to him: his literary and scientific friends were there also. |
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1922-03-31 | obit. of Theo Merz. "Dr. Merz is survived by his widow, together with two sons, Charles Hesterman Merz, M.Inst.C.E., and Norbert Merz, and one daughter, Miss Teresa Merz, J.P." | The Friend LXII:233 |
1922-05-18 | "Ordered a rough hewn Granite Cross for the grave." | Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1922-05-30 |
Professor Hoernlé often here searching material from Theo's papers &c. for the Article he means to print in the Durham Philosophical Journal in appreciation of Theo. He is very sympathetic. Glad to have two photographs—one for the College Room where the Books Theo presented to it are housed—the other for his own home when he possesses one. |
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1922-07-09 | "[ . . . ] Mr. Whitaker who is going over the "Reminiscences" in view of printing them for family circulation." | |
1922-07-26 | will proved at Newcastle-upon-Tyne by Charles Hesterman Merz consulting engineer and Norbert Merz chartered accountant; estate £18,980 4s. 9d. gross, £18,835 12s. 4d. net | will and grant of probate |
1922-09-06 | will certified at Edinburgh | Scotland National Probate Index |
1922-08-11 |
Blackwood has read "The Reminiscences" and would like to publish them—but we all think they were only meant for private family circulation so he is going to print 50 copies. Charles and Stella are Theo's literary executors—so do the correspondence with Blackwood and with Whitaker. |
Alice Mary Merz, 'Family Notes', typescript |
1922-08-15 | "Went to the Cemetery and found the granite Cross in position and at last the Memorial satisfies the eye—after delay and mistakes." | |
1922-11-13 |
Prof. Hoernlé's Paper on Theo's philosophical work very full and critical though appreciative—Prof. Gilchrist adding his impressions and Prof. Sampson asked for his. Charles with usual generosity contributing to the cost of printing these: he also helps with binding of some of the books at College in the "Merz library." |
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1922-12-15 |
Charles here 3 nights beginning of this week—full of interests and talk. A lunch with Lord Haldane on Electricity connected with the North Eastern Railway, he met Viscount Grey: after lunch the Viscountess "Pamela" came in—who spoke to Charles of Theo's having been at "The Glen." Lord Haldane asked her if she knew "The History of European Thought." She said, "No." Lord H. said, "I can lend it to you"—at which Viscount Grey said, "Oh yes, Pamela, we can then definitely refuse my being leader of the Liberal party in the House of Lords—instead retire to the country and you will read aloud to me Dr. Merz's History." Prof. Sampson's "Appreciation" of my Beloved which Hoernlé asked for is very fine and beautiful and true. Professor Gilchrist's delightful also. |
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1922 | Reminiscences of John Theodore Merz printed privately, edited by Charles Hesterman Merz | British Library catalogue |
1934-01-10 | in a review of R.S. Forman, ed. Great
Christians: Another notable figure finds a well-deserved place in these pages—Dr. Theodore Merz, an unusual combination of man of affairs and philosopher. Dr. Merz is still remembered on Tyneside as having been prominent in the chemical industry, and also as Chairman of the Newcastle Electric Supply Company from 1901 to 1916. Yet he found time to compose a standard work in four volumes—"European Thought in the Nineteenth Century," an exhaustive treatise on scientific and philosophical developments in England, Germany and France. The amount of labour involved must have been stupendous; and his four volumes, besides being indispensable to the student, are highly readable. |
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer |
cal 1853 | b. Venice, Italy | TNA: RG 11/1354 f122 p46 |
1879 Q2 | m. Ellen Ann Richardson, Newcastle T. | GRO index; RG14PN7577 RG78PN371 RD136 SD1 ED8 SN391 |
1881 | civil engineer (unemployed), living with his wife and two servants at 13 Marlborough Cres., Acton, Middlesex | RG 11/1354 f122 p46 |
1885 | civil engineer, of 23 Great St Helens, London EC | Post Office London Directory |
1887-09-17 | with his wife, at Moorabool, West Cliff Gardens, Bournemouth | Bournemouth Guardian |
Child: | Denys Arturo Giovanni (1888–1952) | GRO index; National Probate Calendar; RG14PN7577 RG78PN371 RD136 SD1 ED8 SN391; 'The Story of Our Lives from Year to Year'—birthday book made by Mary Spence Watson for Caroline Richardson; son's naturalisation certificate and declaration; son's service record |
1888 | engineer, of 23 Great Saint Helens, London; bankruptcy order at the High Court | London Gazette |
1888-05-16T12:00 | meeting of creditors, before the official receiver, at 33 Carey-street, Lincoln's-inn | Morning Post, 1888-05-16 |
1889-06-24 | released from bankruptcy | London Gazette |
1889-06-27 | engineer, of 23 Great St Helens, City of London; discharge granted | London Gazette |
1891 | not found in census | |
1893-10-12 | departed London for New Zealand, aboard New Zealand Shipping Co.'s RMS Aorangi, travelling intermediate class | Colonies and India, 1893-10-21 |
1901 | of 10 The Crescent, Whitley, Northumberland, but not present; his wife and a cook present | RG 13 4805 f116 p36 |
before 1911 | d. (wife described herself as "widow" on the census return) | RG14PN7577 RG78PN371 RD136 SD1 ED8 SN391 |
1911-03-24 | [had been a] subject of Germany | son's naturalisation certificate and declaration |
1925-06-18 | apparently still alive at the date of his wife's death | wife's will and grant of probate |
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