Wigan Album

So much could have been done for her with today's medication..what a waste,and so pretty,God love her.

You might be able to find more details from either Lancs or Cheshire County Record Office, depending on where Winwick records went. There would have been 'reception orders' for patients, giving brief info on when and why they were admitted, plus possibly other records detailing admissions and case notes. Depends what records have survived and if they are 'open' to public view (i.e. old enough).

Poor Nelly what a lovely face she has...

Phil is correct. The records of Winick Asylum are held at the Cheshire Records Office, Duke St, Chester. Also looking at www.cheshire.gov.uk/recoff.home.htm might give you more information. There are pics & history details on Google about Winick Hall which didn't close till the 1950's I believe. I must add that, Helen Lewis Ratcliffe looks a lovely, serene woman but people were put in asylums years ago for any mental reason that could not be understood. For women post natal depression was such a reason. Tragic.

Thanks to all for your comments and research suggestions. I will contine my search, have left messages for info help in a couple of forums. Some things appear in the most obscure places I have found when looking. No help with Nellie yet though! Also, seems as if Cheshire is now broken down into East and West Cheshire. I am checking East at present. :)