Congleton Museum is calling for residents’ help to shed light on a memorial plaque found in a storeroom.
Museum volunteers uncovered a plaque commemorating the lives of Emily Boston and her father William.
The tablet of remembrance is inscribed with 11 names, below which reads: “This tablet was given and erected by the members of the family in loving memory of Emily (Emmie) Boston, who passed to the homeland on 11th June 1941. Aged 45 years. And of her father William Boston, who also passed to the homeland on 15th July 1932. Aged 62 years.”
While the museum knows some facts about Emily and William, questions remain about the white marble plaque.
Emily and William Boston lived at 8, Park Street, and may have been members of the Kinsey Street Methodist Church congregation. The museum believes they were a well-respected family within the town.
Now, it is asking residents to help solve the mystery.
Local historian Lyndon Murgatroyd researched the names on the plaque, but was unable to find anything concrete.
“There is a William Dutton listed as a silk throwster in 1902 (Dane Mill and Dane Street Mill). In the trade directory 1934, there is a William Dutton listed as a farmer in Rood Hill, and Enoch Machin is listed as an insurance broker in Mossley. That is an unusual name so that may be correct,” Mr Murgatroyd explained, but told the “Chronicle” that this information should be considered speculative.
“My personal view would be that the people listed may all have had some particular responsibility at Kinsey Street Church, and that may be why they are listed on the plaque.”
The “Chronicle” enquired with Cheshire Archives and Local Studies to attempt to trace the names on the plaque.
Anyone connected to the Boston family, or who recognises the plaque or any of the names on it, may be able to help. Those with historic photographs, documents or local knowledge might also be able to help uncover the story behind the plaque.
Volunteers at the museum are currently investigating several local history puzzles, using historic records, archives, family history resources and local knowledge to piece together Congleton’s past.
Anyone with useful information should call Judie on 0794 754 990 or Linda on 07810 698 148.
