Lydia Becker (1827-1890) was born in the Manchester area in Feb 1827 the eldest of 15 children the surviving siblings being Mary, Esther, Edward, Wilfred, Arthur, John and Charles. Her father, Hannibal Leigh Becker (1803-1877) was the son of Ernest Hannibal Becker (1771-1852) a German immigrant who had settled in England and become a naturalised citizen. Hannibal married Mary Duncroft and became the proprietor of first a calico-printing works at Reddish and then a chemical works at Altham in Lancashire. The couple had fifteen children. Her early life was conventional her main interests were in astronomy and botany, and she wrote one book on each subject. In 1865, the family moved to central Manchester where Becker founded the Manchester Ladies' Literary Society, which was a centre for scientific interests and at the first meeting a paper written by Darwin for the event was read. The previous year she had attended a Social Science Association meeting and heard Barbara Bodichon lecture on women's emancipation. Bodichon encouraged her to contact Emily Davis. Through these individuals, Becker became involved with local suffrage groups. In Feb 1867, she was named honorary secretary of the Manchester Committee for Women's Suffrage and was instrumental in rewriting its constitution as the Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage. In 1868 she became treasurer of the Married Women's Property Committee. She travelled about the country organising meetings and support for the issue throughout the 1860s and was involved in the campaign to have women ratepayers included on the electoral register. She worked alongside Jacob Bright as the parliamentary agent of the National Society for Women's Suffrage to have the amendment to the Municipal Franchise Bill passed in 1869 so that this could be achieved at a local, if not a national, level. However, her efforts were not restricted to suffrage. In 1870, she was the first woman to be elected to the Manchester School Board, she was also the founder-editor of the 'Woman's Suffrage Journal' in 1870. In the 1870s she was active in the campaign to have the Contagious Diseases Acts repealed and worked beside Josephine Butler and Elizabeth Wolstenholme in the Vigilance Association for the Defence of Personal Rights. She organised a significant repeal meeting in the Free Trade Hall, Manchester, 1870 with JB, Elizabeth Wolstenholme and James Stuart. She also served on the LNA Executive Committee between 1872-1873. She introduced the first motion against Bruce's Bill at the Conference of Repeal Organisations, 29 Feb 1872. However, parliamentary developments in 1874 led many to believe that the vote might be granted to single though not married women. Becker pragmatically supported this as an interim measure, leading to criticism from the Pankhursts, the Brights and Wolstenholme Elmy. In the later part of that decade she was secretary to the Central Committee of the National Society for Women's Suffrage and remained with it when the London societies divided over opposition to the CD Acts in 1888. However, her health began to deteriorate and she withdrew from active work in 1889 and travelled to Aix-les-Bains to recuperate. On the 21 Jul 1890 she died in Geneva, Switzerland having contracted diphtheria.
The collection contains correspondence by, to and between members of the Becker family discussing family concerns and suffrage issues.
9/28/A- Letters written by Lydia Becker 1836-1890; Letters written to Lydia Becker 1853-1890; Posthumous letters etc. concerning Lydia Becker 1890; Lady Lytton's Family Letters 1858-1881; Lady Lytton's Family Letters 1858-1881 - Begin AL/5321.
9/28/B- Becker Family Letters 5 Feb 1816-16 Feb 1857; Letters from Stratton Lodge, home of Eleanor Becker 1881-1895 - Begin AL/5357; Letters to Arthur Becker 1881-1921 - Begin AL/5372; Family letters 1909-1922 - Wilfred Becker, Fanny Price, Esther Becker - Begin AL/5383.
The letters have been arranged into two parts. Part A consists of Letters written by Lydia Becker 1836-1890 Letters written to Lydia Becker 1853-1890 Posthumous letters re Lydia Becker 1890 Lady Lytton's & family letters 1858-1881. Part B consists of Becker family letters 1816-1857 Ernest Becker's journey to Maranham, Brazil & Charles Becker from Australia Becker 1881-1895 from Stratton Lodge, home of Eleanor Becker Arthur Becker 1881-1895 Family letters 1909-1922
This collection is available for research. Readers are advised to contact The Women's Library in advance of their first visit. Available on microfiche only.
The papers of Lydia E Becker and the Beckers were passed to the Fawcett Library in 1969 by the family.
A copy of this archive is available on microfilm held at The Women's Library.
At some point during the 1970s a large number of letters were removed from the Becker collection (ref. 7LEB) and placed in the Autograph Letter Collection, volume 28 (ref. 9/28) which is available on microfiche.
Also held at The Women's Library are personal papers of Lydia Becker (7LEB) and a volume of the Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage (for which Becker was secretary) (2MNS).
Also see Lydia Becker's correspondence as secretary of Manchester Society for Women's Suffrage (1867-90) in Manchester Archives and Local Studies Library (reference M50/1).
Abstracts of individual letters in the autograph letters collection were written and held alongside the letters. This work was done from the 1960s by volunteers including Nan Taylor. In 2004 Jean Holder completed a 3 year project to list the letters, copy-type the abstracts, and repackage the letters to meet preservation needs. In 2005 Vicky Wylde and Teresa Doherty proof read and imported the entries to the Special Collections Catalogue.
The original card index of all correspondents, including date of letter & volume reference, is available on the microfiche.
Becker (aged 9), Backhouse was her aunt. She likes the house (Reddish Mills) very much; this is the first letter she has ever written.
Becker (aged 10) writing from from Reddish to her grandmother, addressed to Mrs Duncuft, Henry Backhouse Esq. Bass Lane. Thanking her for a present.
Mary Becker was the sister next in age to Lydia born 8 Dec 8 1828. Birthday greetings inside envelope
Refers to a picture (in process of being worked) which their mother wished her to have (Mrs Becker died on 13 Feb 1855) An important piece of news to communicate: Papa has just told them retrenchment in household expenditure a necessity: domestic work is a physical impossibility for her and the only thing is for her and one other sister to obtain situations as governesses. The minimum salary should be £40. And she knows of salaries up to £70 or £80. She hopes her aunt will approve of the scheme.
Written from Altham. Thanks her for note: glad to say house returning to its former state. Essie (Esther) and Tory (Victoria) are anticipating some local gaities with much pleasure. Had a letter from Mary and John. The wedding of Mary (next girl to Lydia) to John Henderson had just been celebrated and as her mother was dead the brunt of the arrangements had fallen to Lydia. She feels that Mary is in good hands. Very relieved that everything is now over. Gives her aunt details of the guests and the arrangements for their entertainment. The happy pair went to London for their honeymoon, and she hopes to see them home before the New Year. Aunt Eleonora (sister of their father) seems to be enjoying her visit and has just been taken for a drive by her Papa.
Deputation to Home Secretary on municipal franchise for women.
Written on notepaper headed Manchester NSWS. Acknowledging ticket and circular of the Electoral Reform Conference. The leading article in the Society's Journal has reference to the Conference and Mr Jacob Bright would like those attending the Conference to have a copy; would he send a list to her.
Sends publications on Women's Suffrage question (Gift of Miss Myers)
Enclosing pamphlets and a copy of the Women's Suffrage Journal; appealing for consideration of the 'ancient rights of women'.
Written on headed paper Manchester National Society for Women Suffrage, Manchester. Expresses her uneasiness about women delegates attending the Conference as men are ready to catch at the slightest thing in a woman they regard as strange. She hopes the ladies will confine themselves to voting and be guided by Dr. Crosskey who is to move the resolution
Inviting her to attend a meeting of the Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage.
[name of addressee deleted]. About a date for the Second Reading of the Women's Franchise Bill reintroduced in the House of Commons by Mr. Woodall in the early part of that year [A Bill was introduced also in the House of Lords by Lord Denman]
On the possibilities of the passing of the Franchise Bill
Asks if Mrs Lucas is authorised to issue anything on behalf of the Central Committee. Asks for details of the plants and thanks for ones sent.
Written from Manchester National Society for Women's Suffrage. Finds from records that three copies of their Journal have been sent to her each year since 1878 and would like to know whether she wishes to continue to receive them. The charge is 4/- a year for three copies. [Note added to say 16/- has been sent] [Taken from Josephine Butler Collection, her signature mistaken]
Written as Honorary Secretary to the Manchester NSWS. Thanks her for her valuable support in giving her name to the Declaration in the Fortnightly Review and ventures to ask if she can further assist the cause by giving her support to the Society.
Personal news only. 31 Jul 1889? This was the year of Wilfred's marriage and the reference to him in the letter might apply to his honeymoon journey.
Thanks her for her notes.
Written from Bath for treatment. Reports progress in health after six weeks' treatment and doctor recommends another three weeks with hope of ultimate complete recovery.
Written from Aix-les-Bains. Postcard. She reports she 'improves slowly but steadily' on the 27th she is setting out for Chamonix and feels glad to escape to higher and cooler places (Note written on the back of he postcard by the recipient Mrs M.Henderson 'Last writing I had from L.E. Becker' She died in Geneva on July18)
Lydia's grandmother was Lydia Kay Leigh and one of her sons was called John Leigh which would make him an uncle of Lydia. One of her brothers was called John Leigh but he was not born till 1840. Thanking her for sending him such fine specimens of the Colchicum. Rest of the letter devoted to extolling the work of the explorer and archeologist Layard whose last work he has just finished reading. He advises her to get the book out of the library as early as possible.
Thanks her for sending him various plant specimens; thinks Botany's 'a charming study for a lady'; gives advice about exchanges.
Reminds her that this is the season for mosses and lichens and recommends some essential textbooks on this subject.
Written from Kent County Opthalmic Hospital, Maidstone. Lydia was his sister. He has been visiting his aunts at Ryde and found them most liberal and kind and generous with gifts. He is now staying with his brother Leigh who is on the staff at the hospital (see letter from Leigh from Australia, 19 Jun 1864). Says he has felt stronger the last two or three days and his cough has been rather better.
James was the MP for Manchester 1865-1867. He died 3 Nov 1867 while returning from a holiday in Switzerland. He is in favour of extending the franchise to women and will be 'happy to present any petition which you may think proper to entrust to my charge'. Addressed to 'Miss Lydia Becker Honorary Secretary'
Acknowledging in his father's name her letter in favour of the enfranchisement of women.
Taylor was the step-daughter of JS Mill. She acknowledges the honour done her by the Committee in publishing an article of hers and says how pleased she was with her (Miss Becker's) article in the Contemporary Review.
Babington was the Professor of Botany at Cambridge. Acknowledging the papers she had sent to him. He is not prepared to put his name to the petition at the moment. He thinks that the ladies for the most part are not in favour of the plan. He hopes 'that after this matter is settled you will return to the gentle science of botany and that I may have the opportunity of helping you in it'. With envelope.
Dilke succeeded to the Baronetcy on death of his father 1869. Reports he has presented her petition and suggests she should petition the House of Lords as regards the 'Municipal Franchise Bill'.
Thinks the Bill (The Municipal Franchise Bill)'seems right' will send it to McLaren (Mr Walter SB McLaren MP who married his sister Mrs Priscilla Bright McLaren). Refers to article on Byron in the Quarterly Review by Mrs Stowe (Harriet Beecher) which has roused great controversy.
Enclosing a letter 'obviously intended for your perusal'.
Being in London and he was only called to the Bar in Lincoln's Inn in1874. Before that he was in Scotland and abroad) from Mrs Priscilla Bright McLaren (3rd wife of Duncan McLaren and sister of John and Jacob Bright) from Edinburgh to Miss Lydia Becker. Letter about suffrage matters (Mrs McLaren was President of the S.S. in Edinburgh): an article on women magistrates; question of paying expenses etc. 21 Oct (no year, but after 1874 as reference made to son Charles.
Blackburn was born at Valencia, she was Secretary to London Central Association etc; In 1902 she published 'A record of the Women's Suffrage movement in the British Isles' by Helen Blackburn. A letter of condolence on the death of her father (Hannibal Leigh Becker 1803-1877).
Written from paper Buildings, Temple London EC.To say he has received the copy of the Journal. But so occupied he has not a moment to give to it.
Advising her they are sending her five copies of 'The first Violin'
Knowles was the founder and editor of 'Nineteenth Century'. Regretting that lack of space prevents him from accepting her article for the 'Nineteenth Century'.
Thanks for her kind note of congratulation about the Review; now engaged on another book to be called 'Peril' (published in 1864); she is at home alone, all the family scattered abroad.
Enclosing a slip from Nottingham Guardian with a corrected report of that part of his speech which dealt with 'the female ratepayers' vote.
Proposes someone as member of Executive Committee. And would she send a card to Mr and Mrs Roe about the meeting.
Regretting they are unable to accept Miss Becker's kind invitation. 4 Jul (no year, but refusal for the 17th the same as Mrs MM Dilke's 1884).
Mrs Margaret Mary Dilke was married to Ashton Dilke MP (1850-1883), only brother of Sir Charles Dilke (1843-1911), and whose son, Sir Fisher Wentworth Dilke became 4th Baronet on the death of his uncle Sir Charles Dilke.
Sorry she is unable to accept Miss Becker's invitation for the 17th as she will be out of town and may not even be able to attend the Annual Meeting. No date but probably about 1884 after the death of Dilke's husband.
Mozley was a writer on legal matters; author of 'The Property Disabilities of married women and other legal effects of marriage', Essay 7 in 'Woman's work and woman's culture; a series of essays edited by Josephine Butler 1869. Accepting an invitation to an evening party on the 17th.
The Petition will be forwarded to Miss Becker with the final signatures. Gives news of an Englishwoman at Naples, married to an Italian who cares for nothing but 'the miserable, mindless, demoralised society of Naples', a truly wretched position for her. 20 Feb, no year.
Thanks her both on his own behalf and the Baroness for her very kind and appreciative letter which was refreshing to turn to in the heat and turmoil of party conflict. 14 Oct - no year.
Note - the third Earl of Camperdown 1841-1918, was unmarried, and succeeded his father in 1867. Today she would rather not give her name for the Committee of the |National Society for Woman Suffrage but thanks her for the compliment. 29 Jul - no year.
Herbert was a political philosopher and author. He was the third son of Henry JG Herbert third earl of Carnarvon. Asking if she would meet some of them at Cobden Café 'to try and organise club'. Undated letter
In answer to a query about a beetle from a friend of hers anxious to identify a specimen in his possession.
Iddesleigh was a minister in successive Disraeli governments. Counsels her not to move 'till the elections are over'; hopes to see her afterwards.
Wroe was great uncle to Lydia. To say he is sending her Tytler's work 'which ranks very high in this department of literature' (Tytler's main work was his 'History of Scotland' which occupied him for eighteen years 1828-46. He also published 'England under the reign of Edward V1 and Mary'). 19 Feb - no year (He is mentioned in a letter from Mrs Cleminshaw, née Wroe, Mar 1887, but he probably sent Lydia the book in her young days, 1845-1850).
Becker had asked Cleminshaw for information respecting their ancestors. Susannah Cleminshaw was the daughter of Elizabeth Wroe (who was married to Edward Stephens). Susannah's sister Mary, married James Duncuft, and their daughter married HL Becker, Lydia's father. She gives a list of her mother's brothers and sisters in the order in which they came. Her grandfather, Thomas Wroe and Duncuft were partners in large cotton mills at West Haughton and were the first in Lancashire to use steam power in their mills. Consequence their mills were burnt down.
Continues with information about the family. Refers to the 'curse' that 'no member of the mill owner's family should prosper for two generations'. But the said mill owner, i.e. Thomas Wroe, died a wealthy man and further two generations have passed before it reached Lydia. She feels much interested in all the information Lydia is collecting and if she hears of anything fresh will let her know at once.
Evelina was the daughter of 3rd Earl of Carnarvon, wife of 5th Earl of Portsmouth, who died 1891. Saying 'I shall greatly like to read your article'.
He agrees with many points in the Woman's Suffrage Journal but others on which he cannot and on these he feels so strongly that he is unwilling to support it.
He is prevented from assisting her by the terms of his contract; but hopes to have the pleasure of seeing her as he is coming to the Free Trade Hall during the next few weeks.
He trusts she will derive benefit from her contemplated visit to Bath and he will take her place at the rota meeting of the School Board at Grosvenor Square.
Fragment of a note. From 1886-94 he brought in Bills for granting of female suffrage and despite his inability on any occasion to secure even a second reading he was not deterred from making fresh efforts in each succeeding year. Gives details of his work in forwarding suffrage bills in the House of Lords.
Draft of Will (undated) of Miss Lydia Ernestine Becker in which she made her brothers Arthur Gawaine Becker and Wilfred Becker her executors.
Death Certificate of Lydia Ernestine Backer issued by the British Consul at Geneva on 21 Jul 1890. Death 18 Jul at Clinique Julliard.
Receipted account for 825 francs from the undertakers G Erath for the burial of Mademoiselle Becker 21 Jul 1890, Geneva.
Resolution passed 30 Jul 1890 by the Executive Committee of the NSWS on hearing with deep regret of the death of Miss Lydia Becker... 'also our own sorrow that we are deprived of her sagacious counsels and devoted services to the cause of Woman's Suffrage'. Resolution passed 28 Jul 1890 by the Committee of the Cambridge Association for Woman's Suffrage on hearing with deep regret of the death of Miss Lydia Becker.
Wilfred and Arthur Becker (brothers) were Lydia's executors. To say he was going away for a fortnight and was leaving all papers referring to Lydia in his office (from which he writes). Gives statement of money so far expended and some directions about Lydia's belongings.
For details of Blackburn's life see letter from her 14 Oct 1877. Thanking him for writing to her from Aix and giving her those particulars she was so longing for.
Writing from St. Gervais-les-Bains, Ht. Savoie. Thanking him for the papers with the account of his sister's life 'which interested us deeply'. They had not realised 'she was so distinguished a lady'.
A resolution passed at a Meeting of the City of Manchester School Board held on 25 Aug 1890 that they desired to record their deep regret at the decease of the late Miss Lydia Becker who had been a member of the Board for 20 years.
Memorial to Lydia E Becker
They pay tribute to Miss Becker's work for the Society and appeal for donations to wipe out the liabilities of the Society and enable the work to be carried on.
Passing a resolution to lace upon record their sense of the value of the long services of Miss Becker on the Manchester School Board.
Whittaker was vicar of Altham Church. Asking if he could tell him where he could find the best account of Miss Becker's life and work as he is 'wishful to have the history of Altham as complete as possible'
She is returning the newspaper articles he lent her and thanks him for giving her the chance of personal reminiscences of one who was certainly one of the remarkable pioneers of the woman's movement'.
Copy of verses by Lytton, sent to his mother Rosina, Lady Lytton, wife of the novelist Bulwer -Lytton. 'Souvenir of our Honeymoon on that anniversary of your wedding day 29 Aug (Bulwer -Lytton married Rosina Wheeler 29 Aug 1827), 1858, Bagueres de Luchon, Robert Lytton. Undated but envelope present has Oct/Nov 1878 on it.
Rosina married Bulwer -Lytton, the novelist (1803-1873) in 1927, legal separation in 1836. She was delighted with Miss Becker's lecture on Sir Walter Scott's heroines especially her remarks about 'strength' which tally with her own opinions. She would like 'to collect all Mrs Fawcett's grains of gold till they become an ingot sufficiently large to buy us the franchise'. Gives her view on the laws on the relation of a mother and her children.
On the death of her husband. Bulwer -Lytton on 18 Jan. She was inundated with telegrams the day before and with letters today, all with the refrain 'I congratulate you from my heart nay from my very soul'. Her own epitaph for him was 'he died as he had lived a puff adder', and she signs herself as 'Freed woman Lytton'. With envelope.
Letter without date, addressee or signature. She enumerates at some length the demerits of Disraeli and her husband: 'It would be impossible to find any two political adventurers more unscrupulous than the two 'Pals', the signal success Disraeli and the signal failure of Lord Lytton. But Disraeli had the inestimable gift of a temper which nothing disturbs, while Lord L's is equally compounded of 'nettles verjuice, serpents fangs and tigers claws'. She describes Dizzy's wooing of 'Mary Ann' following on the death of her first husband in 1838.
She refers to her penniless state; her bitter feelings about having brought such a contemptible little wretch as the Viceroy (her son Robert, 1st Earl of Lytton was appointed viceroy of India in 1878) into the world; twenty years ago on 22 Jun 1858 'his vile father' had her kidnapped in London and incarcerated in a private madhouse; later sent his son to convey her abroad and by playing on her affections made her swear not to expose his infamous father. She goes into details about her money affairs and complains bitterly that her net income is just £440 net a year. Further troubles on the death of the trustee and delays in appointing another,. Her friend will now understand why she could only send her that beggarly 10/- a year. Her heart bleeds for those poor Indians rules by such a man, but she blames the Premier for this who 'gave into his young hands that many kingdomed Empire for a plaything'.
Sending her very sincere sympathy on the death of his wife.
To say beautiful weather and he had been haymaking. After he got home the last Friday he drove Lydia Ann (his sister) Describes his meeting with the Liberal candidate, Mr Hort. Undated. A postscript signed HLB.
Written from Fordenton to his son at school at Mr Harling's Academy, Chester. Telling him to ask permission of Mr Harling to allow him to visit his sister (possibly Sophia Maria b. 1805) at Miss Briscoe's every Thursday afternoon. They hope to hear from both of them soon.
Written from Blackpool to his son, addressed to the works at Manchester. Reports favourably on the improvement in health of his sister Eliza (b.1809) indeed all the family, including himself, have benefited from the air and water. Gives directions about the work at the factory and about the organisation of the Concerts. Very little society where they are.
Written from Blackpool to her son Hannibal. Congratulates her son on the confidence placed in him; she has never known of so young a man as himself having the sole management of so valuable concerns. His sisters have had pleasant times with some young men of the Lees family and others. Sep no year. Watermark date on the paper 1821.
Written from Harrogate to his son. Managed the journey in a day. Gives directions about management of the works and everything else. The waters at Harrogate suit his mother and the society there pleases her and Sophia. He fears poor Charles is past recovery.
Written from Harrogate to his son. Tells him he might have opened the letter from his brother; its chief and best contents as order for ten casks of Black Powder. Thinks they are all improving by the use of 'this nasty water'. He and Sophia just returned from young Aspall's concert. 'His playing has quite surpassed my expectation'
Written to his son. The waters seem so beneficial to his mother and himself and Sophia so pleased with the society that he wants to stay there the full three weeks. Gives directions about various business matters including \bills falling due.
Written from Harrogate to his son. They are beginning to think again of the joys of being at home. Various references to business matters. Reiterates again the benefits they have derived from the waters.
Written from Wigan. Had a pleasant drive there doing 19 miles in less than three hours; after tea took a stroll round the town; confesses he knows nothing of architecture. Tomorrow they drive to Ormskirk before breakfast and on to Southport. A scheme for erecting warehouses there.
To congratulate her son on the birth of 'my dear little Grand Daughter' (this was Lydia b. Feb 24 1827, the first grandchild). She had heard the great news from her daughter Sophia who says 'she is the most beautiful child she ever saw'.
Written when away from home. He makes elaborate plans to arrange correspondence between them. Tells her to give 'our dear little babe' (Lydia b. Feb,25 1827) a kiss from him.
Addressed to her at 3 Pool Fold, Manchester. Tells her of alterations he proposes to make in the house, but he will wait till he can consult her personally.
Written from Hollinwood to her husband. Anxious to hear about her husband's health and will not be happy till he returns home 'Our little Lydia is a great source of comfort and pleasure to me'
Written from Sparth to his father. Thanks his father warmly for loan of £600 for a house. Reports that trade 'is improving here also I have sent out this week 213 bottles.' 2 Sep no year, watermark date 1829..
Addressed to Sparth, Blackburn. Has enjoyed her time away but still thinks no place like home. Suffering from an irritation of the eyes in consequence of the dust and wind of yesterday. Has accepted Henry's offer to take her to Foxdenton in the gig; will take Bertha (b.1810) with her. Fond messages to Lydia and Mary (the two elder children). 25 May and 26 will be 'Thy Mary's birthday' (b. 1807) so year is 1831.
Tells of purchase of chemicals for the works; of a serious accident in the Spirit of Salt room when Saml.Cheetham and his son William were seriously burned.
Written from Foxenden to his son. Sending their condolences on the death of the child Berths (b. 8 Jul 1830)
Becker of Altham, Blackburn. Asking her if she would let her name be included in the list of Lady Patronesses for the Ball in aid of the Ladies charity on 22 Jan. Her reply on the other side was that she begged to decline the honour but Mr and Mrs Backer would have much pleasure in attending the Ball.
Fragmentary letter from Mary Duncuft (grandmother on the maternal side of Lydia Becker. Mary Wroe married James Duncuft and their daughter Mary married Hannibal Leigh Becker in 1826.) She died in 1855. The letter has a portion cut off and the writing is crossed so that it is almost unreadable. The last paragraph which is clear runs '...and we saw Tagliani in the Ballet and after all our unpleasantness got safely home again. 3 Jul Yesterday we went to Richmond and Twickenham I was enchanted with the scenery. I must now conclude with my dearest love to Papa, Mama and all your dear children. I hope they are all quite well at B'ham...I have no room for more but belie e me my dear Lydia your affectionate grandmamma, M. Duncuft.'
Written from Manchester. EH Becker to his daughter in law Mary condoling with her on the death of her 'Sainted Parent' (her parents were James Duncuft and Mary Wroe)
Written to his daughter in law from Manchester. Yesterday visited Reddish in the morning and Foxdenton in the afternoon when he had a very wet drive. He was looking forward with great pleasure to their being all together at home again. News of other members of the family.
[End of letter missing but from writing etc. from Hannibal Leigh Becker (1803-1877) to his wife Mary] Written from Manchester. He is glad to hear that her inclination is homeward as he is getting tired of his unsettled way of life. Details various visits..
Written from Manchester. Tells her of his interview with Mr. Binks who has patent for making P... which seems good but unwilling to add to his old father's anxieties (Ernst Hannibal Becker 1771-1852). The real reason is unwillingness to work for the family after the old man is gone. The cost of the apparatus he reckons about £1000 (first part of letter incomplete, but another sheet marked 'Continued' and signed H.L. Becker) relates that on his return from Rochdale the day before he called at Foxdenton and found there Capt. Elliott his wife and two children. Does not intend to bring any provisions on Saturday; he hopes to find Lydia better..
Written from Altham. Tells of the prodigious growth in the garden after the rain. 'I am somewhat but not much surprised to find they have not written from Foxdenton since Lydia Ann's return (Lydia Ann sister of HLB (1817-1895) in reply to Lydia's note, but perhaps as they know you are from home they are awaiting your return. (Ernst Hannibal Becker went to live at Foxdenton Hall about 1800, and set up vitriol works just below, later removed some distance away. John Leigh Becker the second son of EHB took over Foxdenton at his father's death, 1852 and was there until 1882 because the owner of the hall Charles James Radclyffe and his tenant disagreed about some matter.
Haigh (cannot trace his name as belonging to a relation), writing from Reddish Vale (The Becker family lived there during Lydia's girlhood c. 1840 to 1855 and then moved to Altham). Addressed to 'My dear Miss Mary' (this was the sister next in age to Lydia b. 1828). In which he sends his condolences on the sudden loss of her brother (this was Ernest Hannibal b. 1836 who had gone out to a commercial job to Maranhan, Brazil in Oct 1856 and who had suddenly died early in Jan 1857) How tragic that he 'should only arrive on a foreign soil to leave his last sigh in the presence of strangers.'
Ernest Becker's Journal of a voyage from Liverpool to Maranham (Brazil) on board the good ship 'Lady Vale' 732 tons register. First day 15 Oct. He was seen off from princes Pier, Liverpool by his father and his sisters, Lydia, Mary and Esther. He keeps up the Journal till 22 Oct 1856, 8th day out. Ended well out in the Atlantic.
Part of a letter, not signed but obviously from Ernest Becker, fairly soon after his arrival at Maranham) to his sister Lydia. Asks for all the news they can send and some newspapers. Explains the difficulty of getting parrot to send them. Describes cooking arrangements in Mr Beatty's house (which would not please an English cook) d gives some sample meals served. Describes local farms, only nuisance among them the mosquito. Seemed strange to spend Christmas Day with a temperature of 84.
John Leigh Becker (1840-1872) from Merino Downs, Portland, Victoria to his father HL Becker. He has come into this district only to ascertain whether the District can support a medical man. His three months working in the Melbourne Hospital has convinced him that if he is to benefit from the climate he must lead a more open air life and spend the greater part of his time in the saddle. Describes the journey and its discomforts. At the end cordially welcomed by the Henty Family (he and his brother were the first settlers in Victoria) Gives pros and cons of staying on there and hopes to say something definite in next letter.
Charles Becker (b.1851 d. at Toowomba 24 Jun 1871) from Toowomba Australia to his brother Billy (uncertain which brother, but Wilfred b. 1850 is the only one who fills the bill). Had a bad attack, the worst he ever had 'but I pulled through once more'. Expands on his financial situation; feels low spirited about his prospects, as if he has to stop there for three or four years and spends his £330. Uncle Leigh (his father's brother) has never said he would take him into his concern if he returns to the old country. Recommends the keeping of personal accounts. Hopes to go out shooting soon and yesterday he got on a horse, the first time in Australia. Went out riding with Leigh (his brother b. 1840) who says he feels better than he has done for five years. They plan to go over to Yandilla, 45 miles away, for shooting (Letter unfinished no signature)
Written from Mandella, Darling Downs to his brother. Excuses himself for not writing for two mails but has been 'up the country for about three months'. Glad to be able to give a first rate account of both Leigh's health and his own. Thinks if returning to Toowomba soon. The neighbouring station encourages the Blacks about the place.
Eleanor Becker (1815-1894) sister of HL Becker and aunt to Wilfred Becker (b.1850) to her nephew Wilfred from Stratton Lodge, Ryde. She expresses her concern about the Brown family (her sister Eliza married George Penrice Brown and had six children); she has heard he was on the island hiding from his creditors; idleness has brought him to this state but he is now near 80 and cannot work. We cannot let them starve.
Written from Stratton Lodge to her nephew. Asks him to have 'suggested notice' inserted in the Ryde paper, Isle of Wight Times (this refers to the obituary notice of her sister Eliza who died 4 Nov 1883
12 Nov 1883 Leigh Blythe Brown to Wilfred (Becker) his cousin, 26 Nov 1883 Leigh Blythe Brown Account of Mrs Eliza Brown's Funeral Expenses, 4 Aug 1884 Leigh Blythe Brown to Wilfred, 5 Aug 1884 Frances Eliza Lydia Biddle (sister of LB Brown married to Daniel Biddle) to Arthur (1843-1921) brother to Wilfred., 2 Sep 1884 Sophie Emma Christie (b. 1852 m. James C Christie) (sister to LB Brown ) to Wilfred.
Statement giving monies borrowed by children of late Mrs Brown on security of their shares under the EH Becker Esq's Will. Letter from 12 Nov 1883 to 2 Sep 1884 arising out of the deaths of Eliza Brown (sister of Hannibal Leigh Becker who died 1877)
Says that Aunt Charlotte is writing to ask him to stay there and she very much hopes he will come to renew acquaintance with the Aunts and be braced by the sea breezes. They have pressed her to stay on but she is determined to be at home for Tory's confinement about the 27. 3 Jun (no year but refers to getting home about the 17 Jun 'as Tory is expecting her confinement this month' Victoria m. to John Crompton had six children between 1865-1873. One, Laura was b. 28 Jun 1872) from Ryde from Louisa (the signature is very indistinct, but she was the only sister that end of the family all boys between Victoria b.1837 and Louisa b.1854) to her brother Wilfred.
Written from from Stratton Lodge. She cannot find L.B.'s (Leigh Becker) (her brother, 1811-1888.) Lan. Yorkshire certificates. The purchase of them was soon after her father's death (1852) and her brother Leigh should have some memorandum of the purchase.
Written from from Stratton Lodge. Sends her best thanks there will not now be any obstacle to the purchase of the L. and Y. shares.
Written from from Stratton Lodge. Does not understand the figures for her bank balance given her by her Bank Manager; would Wilfred explain it to her without telling the Bank Manager.
'Tory' (this was Victoria sister of Wilfred b. 1837 married 1864 to John Crompton, 6 children) was greatly upset by the telegram sent by Wilfred with very bad news of her husband and left at once. Discusses her stocks and shares with Wilfred.
Some more about the L and Y shares. Hopes dear 'Tory' won't overtax her strength; she will help her to pay a nurse if she needs one, but she must not break down.
Written from Grange Bank. She must leave 'the wording of the trust' to W. and Arthur (brother of Wilfred) as at present she is so shattered in health as not to be able to see people and could not possibly transact business.
Deals with business matters involving Leigh and Arthur. No date but written soon after Christmas [1884] as she says 'Yr. Uncle Leigh and your brother Arthur are the only two if the family who have not even sent me a Xmas greeting).
Written from Grange Bank. Thanks him for having Will copied for her. Says she wants to add a Codicil to her Will in consequence of E's death but grudges the extra expense as she has already paid the Lawyer £5.5. for her Will. 2 Feb 1885 Asks Wilfred for the total amount for the bills to be paid at once.
Written from from Stratton Lodge to her brother. Undated letter from Mary (next sister to Lydia m. to John Henderson 1858) to her brother Arthur (1843-1921) (Date before the deaths of her aunts Eleanor (1894) and Lydia Anne (1895) but after the death of her aunt Eliza who married George P.Brown d.1883).
She says her aunt has decided to leave her and Essie (sister) each £100 a year. Her aunt is very much worried by continued letters from her brother-in-law G.P. Brown asking to make his home there and she says she will not have it. She has sent him a great deal of money this year. Has bad news from her son Joe about his wife May, wishes they were in England but coming over would be too expensive.
Congratulating him most heartily on his engagement to be married to Miss Macgowan.
Catalogue of the contents of Stratton Lodge, Ryde, I of Wight. By order of the Executors of the late Miss EA Becker. On the premises as above on Wednesday 17 Apr 1895.
To his brother. Most of the letter devoted to a discussion of property investments and the best procedure on which he asks his brother to come to a conclusion. He is disappointed his brother has no more pupils at Charterhouse (he was a music master at Charterhouse 1881-93). Came up to see Mary but unfortunately she was at Aunt Backhouse's.
To say he was off to a Government position in South Africa and that the moments of 'the purest delight to which I shall look back are the hours I have spent listening to music and for that enjoyment I am most entirely indebted to you'. He fears he is now going to an unmelodious land.
Writing from Cambridge. He says he will keep the notes sent and 'ponder them'. His Etymological Dictionary of 1901 'contains corrections that I could not well make elsewhere'. He is 'most extremely obliged to you for so kindly thinking of me'.
Writing from Broadstone, Wimborne. To say they had been expecting him that afternoon but to let them know about any day next week.
Owing to engagement unable to have the usual game of chess but will come in on Sunday instead. Undated.
Writing from The Mount, Chirk, North Wales. To say she has received an invitation to Lettice Becker's wedding (a daughter of Wilfred Becker, brother of Lydia); she would like to have gone if she had been in London. Rest of letter about the people living round her.
Swainson was an old Carthusian and music devotee. He has a job at the War Office which keeps him more than occupied and such spare time as he has he devotes to keeping up his music. Air raids rather frequent at the time of writing.
Discusses the differing characteristics of Englishmen and Germans. Musical talk. With envelope
Writing from Natal. Describes the virulent influenza epidemic raging in South Africa with the result that everything is at a standstill. He has escaped so far. Speaks of the strong agitation for a Republic already among the Dutch.
Writing from Natal. Glad of his cheerful letter about the school (Charterhouse) but Tod tells a different tale. Political affairs in a queer state; Smuts' speeches very anti-imperial and in view of the next election out to please the Dutch part of the Union. Family news.
Writing from Leipzig upon the death of his brother on 4 Feb 1921. He has only just heard about it from his sister-in-law, Agatha. He will always remember with gratitude the kindness Wilfred showed to his son Oskar in helping him to get to Oxford in 1909.
W Becker b. 1850 from Whaley Bridge to Fanny (this was the daughter of Mary Anne Wroe who married Dr. Price and had two daughters, Fanny and Kate. Their mother was a sister of Mary who married James Duncuft whose daughter Mary married HL Becker father of the writer of this letter. See also letter of 2 Mar 1887 from Mrs Cleminshaw to Lydia Becker).
He writes a letter of condolence after some bereavement (possibly death of her sister as he refers to her return 'to the empty house') Hopes she will come to stay with them next year.
PJ Hannibal Brown (a first cousin of Esther Becker, his mother Eliza being a sister of Esther's father, Hannibal Leigh Becker. See letters from the Brown family 1883/4) writing from Christchurch, N.Z. to which he came out in 1850; now in his 78th year and a grandfather to Esther Becker.
He thanks her for telling him about a deaf aid and would be glad if she would send out the one she recommends. With envelope.
Wilfred Becker to his cousin Fanny Price (For details see Wroe Table and the letter of 4 Aug 1909 from Wilfred to Fanny). He has just been visiting the family graves at Hollinwood (St. Margaret's Church) d copied the inscriptions (enclosed) on the tablets erected to Mr Thomas Wroe (her grandfather and his uncle) and his wife Ann daughter of Thomas Ogden. Also the inscription on grandfather Becker's grave. But no trace of any Duncufts whom he thought were buried there. A letter from his son Trevor at the front dated 12 Apr (appears to be missing 15 Apr 2004) A fragment of another letter giving news of friends and relations. With envelope.
Thanks Trevor and his wife Irene for coming over to see her; delighted to have seen Michael ( the son aged 4). Is waiting for news from LW (Louisa a sister m. in 1888 to Edmund Withington, 5 children) wants to hear they have taken their berths sailing from Quebec 5 Nov.
Fanny E Price (see letter of 14 Aug 1909 for relationships) from Torquay to Trevor (Wilfred Trevor Leigh Becker son of Wilfred, the writer of the 14 Aug letter). Thanks him for accepting the executorship in place of his father 'who simply had been my prop ever since my sister died'. She commiserates with Trevor about the anxious time h has had with his father an hopes the operation swill result in a normal life for years.
Writing from Blackpool. Grieved to hear the news about his father and will anxiously await further news. Letters 18 May (b), 31 May (c) and 2 Jun (d) all on the same note.
To say how glad she was to hear from Trevor that his father was much easier.
Her only comfort is to think how devotedly he [Wilfred] is being nursed by his family in contrast to the sad ends far from their homes of Lydia, Leigh and Charlie.
Writing from Torquay. Dwell on what she owes to his father; she will never forget his comforting presence after the death of her sister Katie. She would dearly like a photograph of him.
She has dreaded losing him for many months 'If only I had the strength and were mediumistic I should try to get in touch with those who have gone before, but as it is I must wait till I can go to find them'.
Wishes all happiness in their new home. Has had a cheerful letter from her sister (Louisa) the day after they arrived at Winnipeg.
Tells of the various German relations she has written to including Agathe Becker, Alfred Becker's widow, whom she asked to send word to Dr. Arthur Becker of Leipzig.
Rejoiced to hear the news of arrival of baby girl and pleased to think she is now not the only Miss Becker. She had heard from Mollie Withington (her sister Louisa married Edmund Withington in 1888)
To her nephew Trevor. Has been investigating the history of the Becker family back to her great grandfather (who came over from Germany) Suggests Ormerod's 'Cheshire' as a source of information for the Duncalfs, and that Lettice (Trevor's sister) being near Manchester could easily find these books in the Reference Library. 22 Apr (no year given but after the death of her brother Wilfred in Jul 1921)
Writing from from Torquay. In answer to a question she says that Alice (the second daughter of Mrs Victoria Crompton, née Becker, sister of Wilfred) 'from a child was considered an odd child'. Mrs Crompton had had a great shock just before she was engaged when Jim's (a brother) horse came riderless to the house and he was found dead on the turnpike road. She advises Mrs Becker 'not to go and stay wit her'. Gives personal news of herself and her financial affairs. 10 Nov [1921 or 1922]
Post card and letter to say she is very ill with Dr. in Attendance 'I do not think I shall get better. Obituary notice attached to letter: 'On 27 Jan at 8 Cocker Street, Blackpool, Esther....aged 87'
Alice Crompton (her mother was a sister of Esther Becker's) who had come to look after her aunt to Irene (wife of Trevor). Reports that her aunt is unmistakably worse and her intelligence gone. Very glad she was free at this time to come to her aunt and stay