This photographic print shows my maternal grandmother, born 21st October 1889, who worked in domestic service at various locations including Preston Hall which is where she met my grandfather, Robert Shotton, marrying in 1914. I imagine this photograph was taken in the first decade of the 20th century.

Their courtship and the etiquette of the time meant she had to leave that employment. At the time of her marriage she was living at 4 Galpin (possibly Gilpin?) Street, Stockton, and they lived at various locations, including Billingham Station where by that time my grandfather was employed. They spent many years living at Vicarage Street in Stockton before moving in the 1960s to be nearer my mother and aunt in Darlington.

Photograph and details courtesy of Melanie Plumley.