http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/ Mon, 21 May 2012 04:40:35 +0000 MyBB http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2718 Mon, 21 May 2012 02:23:52 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2718 Hi There is a great dog show going on in Arrowe Park on Sunday 27th May for the 2nd year running... details can be found on the web site
here...Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

  BARKS-1.jpg (Size: 465.86 KB / Downloads: 0) ]]> Hi There is a great dog show going on in Arrowe Park on Sunday 27th May for the 2nd year running... details can be found on the web site
here...Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

  BARKS-1.jpg (Size: 465.86 KB / Downloads: 0) ]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2717 Sun, 20 May 2012 23:11:51 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2717
It has been confirmed that the helicopter was out because the drunks who hang around on Oxton Road started fighting and one of them used a big lump of wood and hit one male over the head and its reported that there was blood everywhere.

It didn't look nice but we are sure he will be ok, they found the male responsible who was hiding out in the flats across from the cafe.]]>
It has been confirmed that the helicopter was out because the drunks who hang around on Oxton Road started fighting and one of them used a big lump of wood and hit one male over the head and its reported that there was blood everywhere.

It didn't look nice but we are sure he will be ok, they found the male responsible who was hiding out in the flats across from the cafe.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2716 Sun, 20 May 2012 22:37:44 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2716 Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.]]> Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2713 Sun, 20 May 2012 20:59:31 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2713 Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.[/font][/color][/size]]]> Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.[/font][/color][/size]]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2712 Sun, 20 May 2012 20:15:59 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2712 HANNAH WINDSOR MEMORIAL:

Tomorrow 21/05/2012 between 6pm and 7pm there is a memorial at the bowling green in Birkenhead Park and everyone is asked to attend to show there respects to Hannah. Her friends and family will be setting off lanterns which people are asked to bring there own.

Lets show how much we are thinking about her right now.]]> HANNAH WINDSOR MEMORIAL:

Tomorrow 21/05/2012 between 6pm and 7pm there is a memorial at the bowling green in Birkenhead Park and everyone is asked to attend to show there respects to Hannah. Her friends and family will be setting off lanterns which people are asked to bring there own.

Lets show how much we are thinking about her right now.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2708 Sun, 20 May 2012 18:43:02 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2708
Added power for your iphone 3G, 3GS, rechargeable lipo 1800mah comes with usb charging lead that will plug into you iphone 240v plug. On, off switch, led charge status. Brand new in Original box

£15

  007.JPG (Size: 238.01 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]>
Added power for your iphone 3G, 3GS, rechargeable lipo 1800mah comes with usb charging lead that will plug into you iphone 240v plug. On, off switch, led charge status. Brand new in Original box

£15

  007.JPG (Size: 238.01 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2707 Sun, 20 May 2012 18:41:02 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2707
Irons, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, pitching wedge & sand iron.

Metal woods, 1, 3, 5, + head covers.

Putter.

Brolly, pitch mark repairer, ball marker, bag of tees.

15 Brand new Dunlop Titanium golf balls

20 practice balls, used.

Stand bag.

Adidas Golf Shoes Size 9 unworn.

All mint as new condition.

£100

  clubs.JPG (Size: 349.95 KB / Downloads: 1)

  golf bag.JPG (Size: 240.21 KB / Downloads: 1)

  golf shoes.JPG (Size: 350.46 KB / Downloads: 1)

  new balls.JPG (Size: 317.56 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]>
Irons, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, pitching wedge & sand iron.

Metal woods, 1, 3, 5, + head covers.

Putter.

Brolly, pitch mark repairer, ball marker, bag of tees.

15 Brand new Dunlop Titanium golf balls

20 practice balls, used.

Stand bag.

Adidas Golf Shoes Size 9 unworn.

All mint as new condition.

£100

  clubs.JPG (Size: 349.95 KB / Downloads: 1)

  golf bag.JPG (Size: 240.21 KB / Downloads: 1)

  golf shoes.JPG (Size: 350.46 KB / Downloads: 1)

  new balls.JPG (Size: 317.56 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2706 Sun, 20 May 2012 18:37:13 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2706
The site of the old village pump at the corner of Pump Lane, Greasby was restored in 1980 under the voluntary leadership of local historian Jim O'Neil. Planning for "Operation Pump Lane" as it was christened by the Hoylake News, started two years earlier in August 1978.

The project involved over 100 volunteers and resulted in the transformation of this previously overgrown and waterlogged site into a restored, landscaped area complete with the original hand-built pond, well and a working pump.

Since 1980, the upkeep of the site has been shared between Jim and Wirral Borough Council. The Council mow the grass and look after the lampposts and litter bins but the main upkeep is done by Jim and friends who regularly visit the site to keep it spruced up.

After 31 years, Jim feels it is time for him to hand over the reins to someone else and is therefore looking for a suitable successor to carry on the good work and help to maintain the area for future generations.

The project would suit a local resident who cares about the area's past with a good level of physical fitness and an extremely organised way of working. Jim would be on hand to offer initial support and guidance.

The site is currently in need of some attention and if you are interested in finding out more, contact Jim directly on 0151 632 2047 (evenings or weekends) or email him at jimoneil@btinternet.com .]]>
The site of the old village pump at the corner of Pump Lane, Greasby was restored in 1980 under the voluntary leadership of local historian Jim O'Neil. Planning for "Operation Pump Lane" as it was christened by the Hoylake News, started two years earlier in August 1978.

The project involved over 100 volunteers and resulted in the transformation of this previously overgrown and waterlogged site into a restored, landscaped area complete with the original hand-built pond, well and a working pump.

Since 1980, the upkeep of the site has been shared between Jim and Wirral Borough Council. The Council mow the grass and look after the lampposts and litter bins but the main upkeep is done by Jim and friends who regularly visit the site to keep it spruced up.

After 31 years, Jim feels it is time for him to hand over the reins to someone else and is therefore looking for a suitable successor to carry on the good work and help to maintain the area for future generations.

The project would suit a local resident who cares about the area's past with a good level of physical fitness and an extremely organised way of working. Jim would be on hand to offer initial support and guidance.

The site is currently in need of some attention and if you are interested in finding out more, contact Jim directly on 0151 632 2047 (evenings or weekends) or email him at jimoneil@btinternet.com .]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2705 Sun, 20 May 2012 18:33:30 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2705 You will need a push button and batteries for this bell

£5

  bell.JPG (Size: 230.98 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]> You will need a push button and batteries for this bell

£5

  bell.JPG (Size: 230.98 KB / Downloads: 1) ]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2704 Sun, 20 May 2012 18:14:05 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2704 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2703 Sun, 20 May 2012 15:59:58 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2703 Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXuiqBygmok]]> Http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXuiqBygmok]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2702 Sun, 20 May 2012 15:38:44 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2702 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2701 Sun, 20 May 2012 14:34:38 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2701
Priced to sell. You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.]]>
Priced to sell. You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2700 Sun, 20 May 2012 14:03:30 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2700 Register or Login to view.

Mother Red Caps is undoubtedly one of Wallasey's most famous land marks. The old white-washed, short; stumpy
looking building was built by the Mainwaring family in 1595 on the river bank. It was a bold stone building with walls
nearly three feet thick. The house was known by many names over the century's, names such as the Halfway House,
the White House, Seabank Nook and several others.

The name Mother Redcaps came about in the 1700’s when a elderly lady in her autumn years was the owner and
proprietor of the tavern, and was well known for always wearing a red hood or cap. The tavern was frequented by sea
farer's and smugglers as it was well known that Mother Redcap was trustworthy and allowed contraband to be hidden
within the tavern, albeit im sure for a fee or cut of the profit. The activities of mother red cap over the years are well
documented and in essence, she provided the first bank service to appear in Wallasey. She would store goods and
currency within the building and sometimes even pay out prize money to the locals of which was be trusted to her as a
neutral party.

The actual building looked like no more than a small white cottage, although this was the image that she wanted to
portray, however inside it was a far different matter. Accounts shows that the front door was made of solid oak, five
inches thick, studded with square headed nails. The remains of the door, although much decayed, were found in the
cellar by Mr Kitchingman when making alterations in 1888. There were indications of it having had several sliding bars
across the inside, and slots were also found at the sides of the lower windows as though at one time strong shutters
had been fitted to them.

Immediately on the inside of the door was a trap door into the cellar under the north room. It would seem that by
forcing the front door, it would withdraw the bolt to the trap door, thus letting the intruder fall eight or nine feet to the
cellar floor, rendering them immobile at the very least. The way into this cellar was concealed by a rough wooden lid with
the remains of hinges and shackles at the sides and entry could be gained from the back of the staircase in the passage
from the south to the north room. Under the house stairs seven or eight steps led down into this cellar. If the front door
lid or trap were down, the visitor, unless he turned to the right or left into the south or north front room, would proceed
(there being no lobby) straight upstairs, and if anyone were in the cellar at the time he could run up the steps under the
staircase and get out at the back of the house, there being a narrow doorway at the top of the steps into the yard.
When the front door was open the entrance to the south room was a closed by it.

Behind the stairs was a door leading to the old kitchen at the back of the house and so into the open backyard. In this
yard was a well about twelve feet deep, dry and partly filled with earth. There seemed to have been a hole made at the
west side of the well, appearing to lead into the garden, but probably leading into a passage, to be referred to later.
There was a small stream of good water at the back of the house, which supplied the house and also the small vessels
that anchored off here. There was a primitive brew-house at the back, and even down to about 1840 the house was
noted for its strong, home-brewed dark ale. There was another large cave or cellar at the south end of the house;
indeed under the greenhouse (1930) it sounded hollow, and the coarse mosaic was laid on the top of large, flat,
sandstone flags placed over this hollow. This cavity was entered by a square hole with steps as though it were an old
dry pit well. Part of the yard was in reality the roof of a large cavern, composed of flagstones carried on beams.

On it stood a large manure heap, and a stock of coal and coal scales completed the disguise. This coal was supplied by
flats and was retailed to the inhabitants of Liscard and Wallasey. When the cave was used for the reception of any
goods that were better kept from the public gaze, the coals and a few odd barrels were manoeuvred so as to conceal
the cavity, and the appearance of any disturbance of the ground was obliterated. At the end of this cave was a narrow
underground passage (mentioned in some books as leading to the Red Noses) which led to a concealed opening in a
ditch that ran down from the direction of Liscard. It is probable that this tunnel joined the one from the old well in the
yard. The ditch was a deep cutting as far as a pit that was about halfway up what is now Lincoln Drive. At the edge of
this pit grew a large willow tree, with long overhanging branches which formed an excellent concealed look-out
commanding the entrance of the river. The trunk of this tree was sawn in sections in 1889, and when Lincoln Drive was
cut through the pit, the root was rolled down the hill to the garden where for twenty-three years it formed a rude table
in the summer-house. A cutting from this tree was planted by Mr Kitchingman in 1890 at the back of the house and grew
higher than the house itself.

The beams inside the house on each side of the fireplace were of old oak, but as some were too decayed to keep they
were removed; two, however, were retained. The one in the north room is quite sound, almost blueblack and as hard as
steel. The chimney breasts are of great area inside, and in the two ground floor rooms were cavities (near the ceiling
over the oak beams) with removable entrances from the top of the chimney breasts inside the flues.

In the south room there was a cavity hardly sufficient to conceal a person of more than small stature, the wall of which
had to be pierced when Mr Kitchingman made the small staircase to the studio. There were a few other small cavities in
the walls papered over where the sailors, it was said, hid their wages and share of prize-money.
An artificial harbour stood next to the old cottage(1865) and remains
still across, under the promenade. It formed a shelter for boats
stored on its south side, and could be made higher by sliding boards
between thick posts. Sometimes with a north-west gale and high
tide the water flowed into the cellar.

There was a wooden seat across the strand in front of the house
composed of thick timbers from wrecks. It had a short wooden
flagstaff at one end with a large plain wooden vane at the top. This
vane was supposed to work round with the wind but it was in reality
a dummy; the staff fitting down into a round wooden socket in the
shingle could be turned in any direction and was used by the
smugglers for signalling. When the vane pointed to the house it
meant 'Come on,' and when pointing away, 'Keep off.'
At the other end of the seat was another post, with a sign hanging
from it adorned with a portrait of Old Mother Redcap holding a frying
pan on a painted fire, and underneath these words:

All ye that are weary come in an take rest,
Our eggs and our ham they are of the best,
Our ale and our porter are likewise the same,
Step in if you please and give 'em a name.
- Mother Redcap
This post acted as a kind of counterpoise to the vane. The old seat
and sign were seen by Mr Kitchingman's father when, in his
twentieth year (1820), he stayed there for a short time. When this
house was built about 1596, rumour has it that it was the only
building on the river front between the old Seacombe Ferry
boat¬house and the old herring curing house at Rock Point, now
New Brighton.
The house became a tavern in the Privateering days of 1778-90, and was much frequented by the officers and crews of
the Privateers,2 the Redcap, 16 guns; Nemesis, 18 guns; Alligator, 16 guns; Racehorse, 14 guns; Ariet, 12 guns; and
other small vessels made use of the good anchorage known as 'Red Bet's', opposite the house. A small cannon,
punched with the broad arrow, was unearthed during Mr Kitchingman's alterations. It had a spike welded on the end to
replace a wooden handle, long since decayed away, to turn the gun in the desired direction. It was evidently a bow-
chaser from some Privateer. It was placed by Mr Kitchingman in his garden, together with the remains of two flint
muskets found near, and of about the same date.

Another interesting find was a 'Nine-hole stone', supported by a pedestal of brick. Nine Holes is a French game,
halfpence being thrown at the holes, and was the forerunner of bagatelle. It was supposed that this stone was
fashioned by some French sailors (possibly prisoners of war confined in Liverpool and on parole). This was the
suggestion of old Captain Griffiths, aged eighty-five years, and an inmate of the Home for Aged Mariners. He recognised
the stone and told Mr Kitchingman that he had played on it when quite a boy and called the game 'Bumble puppy.'
Stonehouse, writing in 1863, and describing the activities of the Pressgang about 1797, says:
“The men used to get across the water to Cheshire to hide until their ships were ready to sail. Near Egremont, on the shore,
there used to be a little, low public-house known as Mother Redcap's, from the fact of the owner always wearing a red hood or
cap. The public-house is still standing and I have often been in it.”

and had their entire confidence. She had hiding places for any number. There is a tradition that the caves at the Red Noses
communicated in some way and somewhere with Mother Redcap's. The men used, on returning from their voyages, to deposit
communicated in some way and somewhere with Mother Redcap's. The men used, on returning from their voyages, to deposit
with her their pay and prize money until they wanted it. It was known or at least very commonly believed that Mother Redcap
good deal of prize money on their account, yet none of it was ever discovered. Some few years ago, I think about ten or twelve
had in her possession enormous (for her) sums of money hidden or put away somewhere, but where that somewhere was, it
was never known, for at her death very little property was found in her possession although only a few days before she died a
rich prize was brought into Liverpool which yielded every sailor on board at least £1,000. Mother Redcap's was swarming with
and many a strange story has been told and scene enacted under the old roof.”sailors belonging to the Privateer directly after
the vessel had come into port, and it was known that the old lady had received a good deal of prize money on their account, yet
none of it was ever discovered. Some few years ago, I think about ten or twelve (1850), a quantity of Spade Ace guineas was
found in a cavity by the shore. It has always been a firm belief with me that some day a rich harvest will be in store for
somebody. Mother Redcap's was the resort of many a rough hard-hunted fellow, and many a strange story has been told and
scene enacted under the old roof.”
Smugglers and pirates were a real threat in the 1700's particularly to the Wallasey area, adored by both. They would
often take wealthy residents and ransom them for money. There reputation also shows that they were also keen on
kidnapping the poor and keeping them on board against their will to help out with labour on their vessel. This could also
be said of the smugglers nemises, the Royal Navy.

The Royal Navy notoriously picked up young and able men and recruited them into the ranks many times against there
wishes, but the great terror of the sailors was the press other side of the Black Rock that they might conceal themselves
in Cheshire, and many a vessel had to be brought into gang. Such was the dread in which this force was held by the
sailors, that they would often take to their boats on the port by a lot of riggers and carpenters sent round by the owners
for that purpose.”

Two entries in the Wallasey parish registers, both in 1762, refer to the risks the sailor ran. Under the date of 29th March,
appears, ' William Evans drowned in endeavouring to escape from a cutter lying at ye Black Rock'; and again on 6th
November, 'John Goss sailor drowned from ye Prince George tender in his Majesty's Service', the tender being the ship to
which the men were sent immediately on being 'pressed.'

In his notes Mr Kitchingman says: "Except in Mr Stonehouses Streets of Liverpool there does not seem to be any information
to be obtained from writers about this spot. I can readily understand this as it was so out of the way and used for such secret
purposes. I came on the scene and rooted it out for myself".
In another place, he says: "My father lodged at Mother Redcap's in 1820, and many of the notes of the old house here set
out were made by him in that year".
encamped on the Leasowes awaiting embarkation for Ireland. There is a tradition that at the time of King William's and
a place from which pilots boarded vessels, besides being put to other uses. In 1690 the troops of William III were
encamped on the Leasowes awaiting embarkation for Ireland. There is a tradition that at the time of King William's
embarkation, dispatches were conveyed in a roundabout way to Chester, from Great Meols to Mother Redcap's, and then
by fishing boats up the Mersey to Stoke and Stanney, instead of from Meols via Parkgate.

At an earlier period a small privateer called the Redcap cruised between here and Ireland. She took several dispatches
for King James's partisans up to Stoke and Poole on the secluded upper reaches of the Mersey where some of the old
Roman Catholic families resided.

Mr Coventry, a pilot well versed in Wallasey and Liscard folklore, stated that he had been told by his ancestors that
several of King James's adherents, landed at Mother Redcap's. On one occasion three persons of some distinction were
hurriedly landed from a ship. Horses were in readiness, and without a word the travellers rode off rapidly towards 'The
Hooks'. Very soon afterwards a boat with an armed crew came from up river and made a hurried search. Mr Coventry
said that the explanation his father heard at the time was that these refugees had made their escape from Ireland and
were intending to proceed for refuge up the river towards Stoke or Stanney, but the tide being out, horses had been
obtained here. The armed boat had been lying in wait higher up the river above Seacombe Point, and discovering the
probability of a landing being made at Mother Redcap's, hurried down the river to intercept it.

The smuggling went on in this area for century's and storeys denote that on one occasion when the smugglers were
desirous of getting a cask of rum or some other merchandise away from one of the hiding places, but were prevented by
the unwelcome presence of a duty officer. So it was arranged that one of the smugglers was to creep down to the shore
from the Moor, and lie down in his clothes in the water, at the edge of the receding tide. The attention of the solitary
officer at Mother Redcap's was called to the supposed body which had been washed ashore, and he made his way to it
as quickly as possible. He had removed the watch, and was going through the pockets when the corpse came to life,
sprang up, and laid out the surprised officer with a swift blow from a melee weapon. By the time he had come to, the
rum had been removed from Redcap's, and started its journey to the moss at Bidston.

No blame could be attached to the 'drowned man' who stated: "He was walking along the shore, when he must have had a
fit, for the next thing that he became aware of was that he was lying in the sand with his pockets being rifled. Thinking he
was being robbed by a stranger he attacked".
On another occasion a ship with tobacco on board was wrecked, and the watching officers saw two men run from the
part of the wreck on the shore, along the beach northward, with two small bales as though they were about to depart
for the Wallasey side. It took some time on the soft sand to overtake them, and when they were caught the packages
were found to contain cabbage leaves and ferns. In the meantime their friends had made free with the real tobacco in
the wreck.

Old Mr W. Whittle told Mr Kitchingman about 1896 that there was a great dispute concerning the right of way on the
premises about 1750. It seems that when a dead body was found on the beach it was brought here and taken in by the
back door. On removal for interment, on account of some superstition it was taken out by the front door. Certain people
claimed that if twelve bodies passed through in one year it gave a right of way for living people to pass through the
house at any hour, day or night. An attempt was made once and once only, for a fierce fight ensued.

Whittle at one time had an idea of purchasing this cottage, but hearing this story which came from his wife's
grand¬father, he consulted Mr W. H. North, senior, about the legality of the supposed right of way; but Mr North only
laughed at him. Doubtless the attempt referred to was a dodge on the part of the coastguard to obtain right of entry
into the house.

Mr W. Coventry once told Mr Kitchingman he believed Mother Redcap was a comely, fresh-coloured, Cheshire-spoken
woman, and that she had at one time a niece to help her, who was very active but very offhand in her manners, and
who afterwards married a Customs officer.

The first steam voyage across the Atlantic from Liverpool was made in the year 1838 by the City of Dublin Company's
steamer Royal William, 617 tons, 276 horse-power. She left the Mersey on 5th July. A party of the Liverpool Dock
trustees and shipowner's assembled at Mother Redcap's to witness the departure, and a cannon was fired from the front
of the house as a farewell salute when the steamer passed on this side of the river to enter the Rock Channel.
Mr J. Askew, the harbour-master, and Captain Dobie, of Messrs Brocklebank's ship Rimac, made speeches, and the belief
was expressed that the vessel would not get beyond the Cove of Cork.

Mr J. Kitchingman was, it is said, born in the house in Withens Lane, lately the Horse and Saddle Inn. When he retired
from Warrington, where he practised as a solicitor, he purchased and restored, in 1888, Mother Redcap's which had
previously been a fisherman's cottage. He gave the land in front of it, when this portion of the promenade was made, on
condition that it should not be used as a thoroughfare for carriages. When Royalty came to open a new addition to the
Navy League Buildings, the royal and other carriages did drive along this part of the promenade, which so annoyed Mr
Kitchingman that instead of leaving his house to the district, he left it instead to be used as a Convalescent Home for
Warrington people, as his family belonged to that town. As it was not suitable for this purpose, the powers were
obtained to set aside the will, and the property was sold. Mr Robert Myles became the purchaser, and he opened it as a
café, bearing once more the name of Mother Redcap.

The small white cottage style tavern was demolished in 1885 and was rebuilt in 1888 in a mock Tudor style although it
did continue being a public house. This is the taller building with spires which can be seen several old pictures that
eventually became the café. Unfortunately this building also demolished, this time in 1974 to make way for flats.
Nothing now remains of Mother Red Caps except the solitary archway that marked the entrance, a bygone to a time of
smuggling and maritime history.]]> Register or Login to view.

Mother Red Caps is undoubtedly one of Wallasey's most famous land marks. The old white-washed, short; stumpy
looking building was built by the Mainwaring family in 1595 on the river bank. It was a bold stone building with walls
nearly three feet thick. The house was known by many names over the century's, names such as the Halfway House,
the White House, Seabank Nook and several others.

The name Mother Redcaps came about in the 1700’s when a elderly lady in her autumn years was the owner and
proprietor of the tavern, and was well known for always wearing a red hood or cap. The tavern was frequented by sea
farer's and smugglers as it was well known that Mother Redcap was trustworthy and allowed contraband to be hidden
within the tavern, albeit im sure for a fee or cut of the profit. The activities of mother red cap over the years are well
documented and in essence, she provided the first bank service to appear in Wallasey. She would store goods and
currency within the building and sometimes even pay out prize money to the locals of which was be trusted to her as a
neutral party.

The actual building looked like no more than a small white cottage, although this was the image that she wanted to
portray, however inside it was a far different matter. Accounts shows that the front door was made of solid oak, five
inches thick, studded with square headed nails. The remains of the door, although much decayed, were found in the
cellar by Mr Kitchingman when making alterations in 1888. There were indications of it having had several sliding bars
across the inside, and slots were also found at the sides of the lower windows as though at one time strong shutters
had been fitted to them.

Immediately on the inside of the door was a trap door into the cellar under the north room. It would seem that by
forcing the front door, it would withdraw the bolt to the trap door, thus letting the intruder fall eight or nine feet to the
cellar floor, rendering them immobile at the very least. The way into this cellar was concealed by a rough wooden lid with
the remains of hinges and shackles at the sides and entry could be gained from the back of the staircase in the passage
from the south to the north room. Under the house stairs seven or eight steps led down into this cellar. If the front door
lid or trap were down, the visitor, unless he turned to the right or left into the south or north front room, would proceed
(there being no lobby) straight upstairs, and if anyone were in the cellar at the time he could run up the steps under the
staircase and get out at the back of the house, there being a narrow doorway at the top of the steps into the yard.
When the front door was open the entrance to the south room was a closed by it.

Behind the stairs was a door leading to the old kitchen at the back of the house and so into the open backyard. In this
yard was a well about twelve feet deep, dry and partly filled with earth. There seemed to have been a hole made at the
west side of the well, appearing to lead into the garden, but probably leading into a passage, to be referred to later.
There was a small stream of good water at the back of the house, which supplied the house and also the small vessels
that anchored off here. There was a primitive brew-house at the back, and even down to about 1840 the house was
noted for its strong, home-brewed dark ale. There was another large cave or cellar at the south end of the house;
indeed under the greenhouse (1930) it sounded hollow, and the coarse mosaic was laid on the top of large, flat,
sandstone flags placed over this hollow. This cavity was entered by a square hole with steps as though it were an old
dry pit well. Part of the yard was in reality the roof of a large cavern, composed of flagstones carried on beams.

On it stood a large manure heap, and a stock of coal and coal scales completed the disguise. This coal was supplied by
flats and was retailed to the inhabitants of Liscard and Wallasey. When the cave was used for the reception of any
goods that were better kept from the public gaze, the coals and a few odd barrels were manoeuvred so as to conceal
the cavity, and the appearance of any disturbance of the ground was obliterated. At the end of this cave was a narrow
underground passage (mentioned in some books as leading to the Red Noses) which led to a concealed opening in a
ditch that ran down from the direction of Liscard. It is probable that this tunnel joined the one from the old well in the
yard. The ditch was a deep cutting as far as a pit that was about halfway up what is now Lincoln Drive. At the edge of
this pit grew a large willow tree, with long overhanging branches which formed an excellent concealed look-out
commanding the entrance of the river. The trunk of this tree was sawn in sections in 1889, and when Lincoln Drive was
cut through the pit, the root was rolled down the hill to the garden where for twenty-three years it formed a rude table
in the summer-house. A cutting from this tree was planted by Mr Kitchingman in 1890 at the back of the house and grew
higher than the house itself.

The beams inside the house on each side of the fireplace were of old oak, but as some were too decayed to keep they
were removed; two, however, were retained. The one in the north room is quite sound, almost blueblack and as hard as
steel. The chimney breasts are of great area inside, and in the two ground floor rooms were cavities (near the ceiling
over the oak beams) with removable entrances from the top of the chimney breasts inside the flues.

In the south room there was a cavity hardly sufficient to conceal a person of more than small stature, the wall of which
had to be pierced when Mr Kitchingman made the small staircase to the studio. There were a few other small cavities in
the walls papered over where the sailors, it was said, hid their wages and share of prize-money.
An artificial harbour stood next to the old cottage(1865) and remains
still across, under the promenade. It formed a shelter for boats
stored on its south side, and could be made higher by sliding boards
between thick posts. Sometimes with a north-west gale and high
tide the water flowed into the cellar.

There was a wooden seat across the strand in front of the house
composed of thick timbers from wrecks. It had a short wooden
flagstaff at one end with a large plain wooden vane at the top. This
vane was supposed to work round with the wind but it was in reality
a dummy; the staff fitting down into a round wooden socket in the
shingle could be turned in any direction and was used by the
smugglers for signalling. When the vane pointed to the house it
meant 'Come on,' and when pointing away, 'Keep off.'
At the other end of the seat was another post, with a sign hanging
from it adorned with a portrait of Old Mother Redcap holding a frying
pan on a painted fire, and underneath these words:

All ye that are weary come in an take rest,
Our eggs and our ham they are of the best,
Our ale and our porter are likewise the same,
Step in if you please and give 'em a name.
- Mother Redcap
This post acted as a kind of counterpoise to the vane. The old seat
and sign were seen by Mr Kitchingman's father when, in his
twentieth year (1820), he stayed there for a short time. When this
house was built about 1596, rumour has it that it was the only
building on the river front between the old Seacombe Ferry
boat¬house and the old herring curing house at Rock Point, now
New Brighton.
The house became a tavern in the Privateering days of 1778-90, and was much frequented by the officers and crews of
the Privateers,2 the Redcap, 16 guns; Nemesis, 18 guns; Alligator, 16 guns; Racehorse, 14 guns; Ariet, 12 guns; and
other small vessels made use of the good anchorage known as 'Red Bet's', opposite the house. A small cannon,
punched with the broad arrow, was unearthed during Mr Kitchingman's alterations. It had a spike welded on the end to
replace a wooden handle, long since decayed away, to turn the gun in the desired direction. It was evidently a bow-
chaser from some Privateer. It was placed by Mr Kitchingman in his garden, together with the remains of two flint
muskets found near, and of about the same date.

Another interesting find was a 'Nine-hole stone', supported by a pedestal of brick. Nine Holes is a French game,
halfpence being thrown at the holes, and was the forerunner of bagatelle. It was supposed that this stone was
fashioned by some French sailors (possibly prisoners of war confined in Liverpool and on parole). This was the
suggestion of old Captain Griffiths, aged eighty-five years, and an inmate of the Home for Aged Mariners. He recognised
the stone and told Mr Kitchingman that he had played on it when quite a boy and called the game 'Bumble puppy.'
Stonehouse, writing in 1863, and describing the activities of the Pressgang about 1797, says:
“The men used to get across the water to Cheshire to hide until their ships were ready to sail. Near Egremont, on the shore,
there used to be a little, low public-house known as Mother Redcap's, from the fact of the owner always wearing a red hood or
cap. The public-house is still standing and I have often been in it.”

and had their entire confidence. She had hiding places for any number. There is a tradition that the caves at the Red Noses
communicated in some way and somewhere with Mother Redcap's. The men used, on returning from their voyages, to deposit
communicated in some way and somewhere with Mother Redcap's. The men used, on returning from their voyages, to deposit
with her their pay and prize money until they wanted it. It was known or at least very commonly believed that Mother Redcap
good deal of prize money on their account, yet none of it was ever discovered. Some few years ago, I think about ten or twelve
had in her possession enormous (for her) sums of money hidden or put away somewhere, but where that somewhere was, it
was never known, for at her death very little property was found in her possession although only a few days before she died a
rich prize was brought into Liverpool which yielded every sailor on board at least £1,000. Mother Redcap's was swarming with
and many a strange story has been told and scene enacted under the old roof.”sailors belonging to the Privateer directly after
the vessel had come into port, and it was known that the old lady had received a good deal of prize money on their account, yet
none of it was ever discovered. Some few years ago, I think about ten or twelve (1850), a quantity of Spade Ace guineas was
found in a cavity by the shore. It has always been a firm belief with me that some day a rich harvest will be in store for
somebody. Mother Redcap's was the resort of many a rough hard-hunted fellow, and many a strange story has been told and
scene enacted under the old roof.”
Smugglers and pirates were a real threat in the 1700's particularly to the Wallasey area, adored by both. They would
often take wealthy residents and ransom them for money. There reputation also shows that they were also keen on
kidnapping the poor and keeping them on board against their will to help out with labour on their vessel. This could also
be said of the smugglers nemises, the Royal Navy.

The Royal Navy notoriously picked up young and able men and recruited them into the ranks many times against there
wishes, but the great terror of the sailors was the press other side of the Black Rock that they might conceal themselves
in Cheshire, and many a vessel had to be brought into gang. Such was the dread in which this force was held by the
sailors, that they would often take to their boats on the port by a lot of riggers and carpenters sent round by the owners
for that purpose.”

Two entries in the Wallasey parish registers, both in 1762, refer to the risks the sailor ran. Under the date of 29th March,
appears, ' William Evans drowned in endeavouring to escape from a cutter lying at ye Black Rock'; and again on 6th
November, 'John Goss sailor drowned from ye Prince George tender in his Majesty's Service', the tender being the ship to
which the men were sent immediately on being 'pressed.'

In his notes Mr Kitchingman says: "Except in Mr Stonehouses Streets of Liverpool there does not seem to be any information
to be obtained from writers about this spot. I can readily understand this as it was so out of the way and used for such secret
purposes. I came on the scene and rooted it out for myself".
In another place, he says: "My father lodged at Mother Redcap's in 1820, and many of the notes of the old house here set
out were made by him in that year".
encamped on the Leasowes awaiting embarkation for Ireland. There is a tradition that at the time of King William's and
a place from which pilots boarded vessels, besides being put to other uses. In 1690 the troops of William III were
encamped on the Leasowes awaiting embarkation for Ireland. There is a tradition that at the time of King William's
embarkation, dispatches were conveyed in a roundabout way to Chester, from Great Meols to Mother Redcap's, and then
by fishing boats up the Mersey to Stoke and Stanney, instead of from Meols via Parkgate.

At an earlier period a small privateer called the Redcap cruised between here and Ireland. She took several dispatches
for King James's partisans up to Stoke and Poole on the secluded upper reaches of the Mersey where some of the old
Roman Catholic families resided.

Mr Coventry, a pilot well versed in Wallasey and Liscard folklore, stated that he had been told by his ancestors that
several of King James's adherents, landed at Mother Redcap's. On one occasion three persons of some distinction were
hurriedly landed from a ship. Horses were in readiness, and without a word the travellers rode off rapidly towards 'The
Hooks'. Very soon afterwards a boat with an armed crew came from up river and made a hurried search. Mr Coventry
said that the explanation his father heard at the time was that these refugees had made their escape from Ireland and
were intending to proceed for refuge up the river towards Stoke or Stanney, but the tide being out, horses had been
obtained here. The armed boat had been lying in wait higher up the river above Seacombe Point, and discovering the
probability of a landing being made at Mother Redcap's, hurried down the river to intercept it.

The smuggling went on in this area for century's and storeys denote that on one occasion when the smugglers were
desirous of getting a cask of rum or some other merchandise away from one of the hiding places, but were prevented by
the unwelcome presence of a duty officer. So it was arranged that one of the smugglers was to creep down to the shore
from the Moor, and lie down in his clothes in the water, at the edge of the receding tide. The attention of the solitary
officer at Mother Redcap's was called to the supposed body which had been washed ashore, and he made his way to it
as quickly as possible. He had removed the watch, and was going through the pockets when the corpse came to life,
sprang up, and laid out the surprised officer with a swift blow from a melee weapon. By the time he had come to, the
rum had been removed from Redcap's, and started its journey to the moss at Bidston.

No blame could be attached to the 'drowned man' who stated: "He was walking along the shore, when he must have had a
fit, for the next thing that he became aware of was that he was lying in the sand with his pockets being rifled. Thinking he
was being robbed by a stranger he attacked".
On another occasion a ship with tobacco on board was wrecked, and the watching officers saw two men run from the
part of the wreck on the shore, along the beach northward, with two small bales as though they were about to depart
for the Wallasey side. It took some time on the soft sand to overtake them, and when they were caught the packages
were found to contain cabbage leaves and ferns. In the meantime their friends had made free with the real tobacco in
the wreck.

Old Mr W. Whittle told Mr Kitchingman about 1896 that there was a great dispute concerning the right of way on the
premises about 1750. It seems that when a dead body was found on the beach it was brought here and taken in by the
back door. On removal for interment, on account of some superstition it was taken out by the front door. Certain people
claimed that if twelve bodies passed through in one year it gave a right of way for living people to pass through the
house at any hour, day or night. An attempt was made once and once only, for a fierce fight ensued.

Whittle at one time had an idea of purchasing this cottage, but hearing this story which came from his wife's
grand¬father, he consulted Mr W. H. North, senior, about the legality of the supposed right of way; but Mr North only
laughed at him. Doubtless the attempt referred to was a dodge on the part of the coastguard to obtain right of entry
into the house.

Mr W. Coventry once told Mr Kitchingman he believed Mother Redcap was a comely, fresh-coloured, Cheshire-spoken
woman, and that she had at one time a niece to help her, who was very active but very offhand in her manners, and
who afterwards married a Customs officer.

The first steam voyage across the Atlantic from Liverpool was made in the year 1838 by the City of Dublin Company's
steamer Royal William, 617 tons, 276 horse-power. She left the Mersey on 5th July. A party of the Liverpool Dock
trustees and shipowner's assembled at Mother Redcap's to witness the departure, and a cannon was fired from the front
of the house as a farewell salute when the steamer passed on this side of the river to enter the Rock Channel.
Mr J. Askew, the harbour-master, and Captain Dobie, of Messrs Brocklebank's ship Rimac, made speeches, and the belief
was expressed that the vessel would not get beyond the Cove of Cork.

Mr J. Kitchingman was, it is said, born in the house in Withens Lane, lately the Horse and Saddle Inn. When he retired
from Warrington, where he practised as a solicitor, he purchased and restored, in 1888, Mother Redcap's which had
previously been a fisherman's cottage. He gave the land in front of it, when this portion of the promenade was made, on
condition that it should not be used as a thoroughfare for carriages. When Royalty came to open a new addition to the
Navy League Buildings, the royal and other carriages did drive along this part of the promenade, which so annoyed Mr
Kitchingman that instead of leaving his house to the district, he left it instead to be used as a Convalescent Home for
Warrington people, as his family belonged to that town. As it was not suitable for this purpose, the powers were
obtained to set aside the will, and the property was sold. Mr Robert Myles became the purchaser, and he opened it as a
café, bearing once more the name of Mother Redcap.

The small white cottage style tavern was demolished in 1885 and was rebuilt in 1888 in a mock Tudor style although it
did continue being a public house. This is the taller building with spires which can be seen several old pictures that
eventually became the café. Unfortunately this building also demolished, this time in 1974 to make way for flats.
Nothing now remains of Mother Red Caps except the solitary archway that marked the entrance, a bygone to a time of
smuggling and maritime history.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2699 Sun, 20 May 2012 13:42:51 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2699 Hons Degree in Modern History at Liverpool John Moores University under the
guidance of Prof Frank McDonough, Dr Mike Benbough-Jackson and a host of
others. Currently researching into the history of local legend Mother Redcap
for first Historical Fiction novel, main interests in history are from the
Industrial Revolution era in Britain, but also hold a keen interest in World
War II. Also a committee member at Ashville Football Club. You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

Follow me on Twitter @TonyFrBuckley
My Official Blog is You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

Upon leaving school in 1996 I managed to go straight into work, working as a painter and decorator with my dad, after then I did different jobs for the next 11 years, until I decided I had a near death experience and decided I was unhappy with my life and needed to do something about it. This led me to the idea of returning to education, I attended Wirral Met College and gained A Levels in English Lit, History and Environmental Studies which allowed me to enter University.


In year one my modules included, Presenting the past, Historical Themes, Nineteenth Century America, Historians in action, Revolutions in the modern world and Reconstructing the past.


In year two my modules were, British Economy and Society 1800-1990, British Political History 1832-1990, The Rise & Fall of the British Empire 1750 to the Present day, Key Skills in Historical Research and Career Planning.


In year three my modules were, Decolonisation in Southeast Asia post 1945, Life on the British Home front during the Second World War, Popular Culture in the nineteenth century, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich as well as my Independent study on Liverpool during the Industrial Revolution 1700-1850.

I had made it, I finished my course at University, which four years ago looked as only a dream that would never happen. In four years I have gone from being unqualified to University qualified. I was 27 when I went back to college and now I am 31, this is proof that it is never too late to turn your life around and life is what you make of it. I have finally made my parents proud and will be looking forward to Graduation day in July.

After finishing University I am currently starting my new venture of writing. My first project is Historical Fiction talking about a local legend Mother Redcaps inn situated on the banks of the River Mersey in the 18th Century. The legend of smugglers in Wallasey has always been spoke of and never really told, it is my aim to give historical facts with lots of fiction in order for all ages to enjoy a modern day pirate story. The book is written as a memoir from a person named Hector Hornsmith who talks about his adventures at sea with his Friend John Grey also known as Captain Bones, who is the lover of Polly Jones known as Mother Redcap. After being washed ashore during a storm, Captain Bones and Hector Hornsmith find an opening to a cave which leads to the creation of a network of underground tunnels running from beneath the tavern to all over Wallasey as a place to hide their treasure as well as evade his majesty's Royal Navy.


The book is also situated in Liverpool which was on the opposite bank of the river, which was experiencing a time of rapid growth to read more on this please read my article You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view. My main area of interest is the Industrial period in Britain between the years of 1700 – 1850 especially in the Liverpool area. Liverpool’s transition from a small fishing village into a global economic port was phenomenal and throughout history no port in the world has ever matched its rapid progress and the history behind the city is which I desire to research more once I have completed this book.]]> Hons Degree in Modern History at Liverpool John Moores University under the
guidance of Prof Frank McDonough, Dr Mike Benbough-Jackson and a host of
others. Currently researching into the history of local legend Mother Redcap
for first Historical Fiction novel, main interests in history are from the
Industrial Revolution era in Britain, but also hold a keen interest in World
War II. Also a committee member at Ashville Football Club. You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

Follow me on Twitter @TonyFrBuckley
My Official Blog is You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view.

Upon leaving school in 1996 I managed to go straight into work, working as a painter and decorator with my dad, after then I did different jobs for the next 11 years, until I decided I had a near death experience and decided I was unhappy with my life and needed to do something about it. This led me to the idea of returning to education, I attended Wirral Met College and gained A Levels in English Lit, History and Environmental Studies which allowed me to enter University.


In year one my modules included, Presenting the past, Historical Themes, Nineteenth Century America, Historians in action, Revolutions in the modern world and Reconstructing the past.


In year two my modules were, British Economy and Society 1800-1990, British Political History 1832-1990, The Rise & Fall of the British Empire 1750 to the Present day, Key Skills in Historical Research and Career Planning.


In year three my modules were, Decolonisation in Southeast Asia post 1945, Life on the British Home front during the Second World War, Popular Culture in the nineteenth century, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich as well as my Independent study on Liverpool during the Industrial Revolution 1700-1850.

I had made it, I finished my course at University, which four years ago looked as only a dream that would never happen. In four years I have gone from being unqualified to University qualified. I was 27 when I went back to college and now I am 31, this is proof that it is never too late to turn your life around and life is what you make of it. I have finally made my parents proud and will be looking forward to Graduation day in July.

After finishing University I am currently starting my new venture of writing. My first project is Historical Fiction talking about a local legend Mother Redcaps inn situated on the banks of the River Mersey in the 18th Century. The legend of smugglers in Wallasey has always been spoke of and never really told, it is my aim to give historical facts with lots of fiction in order for all ages to enjoy a modern day pirate story. The book is written as a memoir from a person named Hector Hornsmith who talks about his adventures at sea with his Friend John Grey also known as Captain Bones, who is the lover of Polly Jones known as Mother Redcap. After being washed ashore during a storm, Captain Bones and Hector Hornsmith find an opening to a cave which leads to the creation of a network of underground tunnels running from beneath the tavern to all over Wallasey as a place to hide their treasure as well as evade his majesty's Royal Navy.


The book is also situated in Liverpool which was on the opposite bank of the river, which was experiencing a time of rapid growth to read more on this please read my article You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view. My main area of interest is the Industrial period in Britain between the years of 1700 – 1850 especially in the Liverpool area. Liverpool’s transition from a small fishing village into a global economic port was phenomenal and throughout history no port in the world has ever matched its rapid progress and the history behind the city is which I desire to research more once I have completed this book.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2698 Sun, 20 May 2012 13:40:09 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2698 Register or Login to view.

Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.

Wallasey has gradually been losing iconic buildings from its History most recently the pulling down of Liscard Hall after it was damaged by fire. The problem with Liscard Hall was that the council never restored it to its former glory, if we look at Vale House in Vale park that has been restored perfectly and is now in active use for the public.

Why was this not done for Liscard Hall? it was an amazing building which still had lots of potential, it could have been like Vale House and made into a cafe within the park and could of even held events in the upper parts for the community to enjoy.

Now we are facing a simular situation with Gibson House which has been an iconic building in the History of Wallasey, this building has lots of potential to become anything like a hotel, college which Wallasey no longer holds, the possibilites are endless. Something needs to be done to save the building from heading down the same route as Liscard hall and replaced by a deralict space or more housing, the question we all need to hear is, who is going to do somrthing about it?

Here is a little bit of History about the building.

Gibson House is the former home for the widows of seafarers, built at the turn of the 20th century and
stands overlooking Egremont Promenade with unrivalled views towards Liverpool. The imposing red
brick property was built with a donation from Andrew Gibson, a wealthy Liverpool cotton merchant in
1906.

The generous Mr Gibson and others from the same era also provided money to help build some of the
houses elsewhere in adjacent Mariners' Park, providing homes to retired seamen and their next of kin,
as well as a welfare funds for former seafarers. It was built in 1906 to contain 28 self-contained flats for
seafarers’ widows, but has been the subject of repeated vandalism since the residents were moved out
and the building boarded up. In that time it has also had the lead stolen from the roof, copper piping
ripped out and a fire started in the main lobby.

For many years few people even knew that the massive building was called Gibson House or what it
was for because the covenant imposed on it included a clause that no sign be put outside saying what it
was called or built for, to protect the widows who lived there.

Now its owner, Nautilus UK, has submitted a planning application to Wirral Council to convert the
building in Wallasey into 34 apartments. Nautilus, the union which represents shipmasters, officers,
cadets and other staff serving in the UK and international merchant shipping fleets, also wants to build
town houses into the sloping grounds to help pay for the cost of refurbishment. The building had
become a magnet for antisocial behaviour and squatters after it was closed and every window in the
three storey edifice has been smashed in the years it has been left empty.]]> Register or Login to view.

Visitors cannot see images in the messages. Please register to forum by clicking here to see images.

Wallasey has gradually been losing iconic buildings from its History most recently the pulling down of Liscard Hall after it was damaged by fire. The problem with Liscard Hall was that the council never restored it to its former glory, if we look at Vale House in Vale park that has been restored perfectly and is now in active use for the public.

Why was this not done for Liscard Hall? it was an amazing building which still had lots of potential, it could have been like Vale House and made into a cafe within the park and could of even held events in the upper parts for the community to enjoy.

Now we are facing a simular situation with Gibson House which has been an iconic building in the History of Wallasey, this building has lots of potential to become anything like a hotel, college which Wallasey no longer holds, the possibilites are endless. Something needs to be done to save the building from heading down the same route as Liscard hall and replaced by a deralict space or more housing, the question we all need to hear is, who is going to do somrthing about it?

Here is a little bit of History about the building.

Gibson House is the former home for the widows of seafarers, built at the turn of the 20th century and
stands overlooking Egremont Promenade with unrivalled views towards Liverpool. The imposing red
brick property was built with a donation from Andrew Gibson, a wealthy Liverpool cotton merchant in
1906.

The generous Mr Gibson and others from the same era also provided money to help build some of the
houses elsewhere in adjacent Mariners' Park, providing homes to retired seamen and their next of kin,
as well as a welfare funds for former seafarers. It was built in 1906 to contain 28 self-contained flats for
seafarers’ widows, but has been the subject of repeated vandalism since the residents were moved out
and the building boarded up. In that time it has also had the lead stolen from the roof, copper piping
ripped out and a fire started in the main lobby.

For many years few people even knew that the massive building was called Gibson House or what it
was for because the covenant imposed on it included a clause that no sign be put outside saying what it
was called or built for, to protect the widows who lived there.

Now its owner, Nautilus UK, has submitted a planning application to Wirral Council to convert the
building in Wallasey into 34 apartments. Nautilus, the union which represents shipmasters, officers,
cadets and other staff serving in the UK and international merchant shipping fleets, also wants to build
town houses into the sloping grounds to help pay for the cost of refurbishment. The building had
become a magnet for antisocial behaviour and squatters after it was closed and every window in the
three storey edifice has been smashed in the years it has been left empty.]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2696 Sun, 20 May 2012 11:55:22 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2696
If you have any more information please let us know.
Thank you.

---

UPDATE: Forensics are now at the scene.

---

UPDATE: We have been informed that three CID officers have just gone in to Tesco asking for all CCTV footage for the past two nights for a murder enquiry, A staff member has been informed that two murders have taken place but they dont know the frame between them. (PLEASE NOTE: the second death is unconfirmed)]]>
If you have any more information please let us know.
Thank you.

---

UPDATE: Forensics are now at the scene.

---

UPDATE: We have been informed that three CID officers have just gone in to Tesco asking for all CCTV footage for the past two nights for a murder enquiry, A staff member has been informed that two murders have taken place but they dont know the frame between them. (PLEASE NOTE: the second death is unconfirmed)]]> http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2695 Sun, 20 May 2012 10:16:55 +0000 http://www.wirraltalk.co.uk/showthread.php?tid=2695
If you have any information please let us know.
Thanks.

  Argyle-Street-2.JPG (Size: 351.34 KB / Downloads: 178)

  Argyle-Street-1.JPG (Size: 414.09 KB / Downloads: 160) ]]>
If you have any information please let us know.
Thanks.

  Argyle-Street-2.JPG (Size: 351.34 KB / Downloads: 178)

  Argyle-Street-1.JPG (Size: 414.09 KB / Downloads: 160) ]]>