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orphanage in billinge

Started by: jud178 (244)

does anyone have any information on an orphanage in billinge which was run by nuns?

Started: 9th Dec 2008 at 17:52

Posted by: danni (inactive)

there was a discussion about this one the other week, is this the one you mean?

greenfield orphanage

Replied: 9th Dec 2008 at 18:07

Posted by: jud178 (244)

danni,i dont know anything at all,i found out my mother stayed at an orphanage in billinge as a child,was curious,my mother as died recently,but i remember her tales of cruelty by the nuns,she tried to protect a young girl who wet the bed,as the nuns would make her stand in corner with wet blanket over her head.

Replied: 10th Dec 2008 at 09:56

Posted by: frances (2831) 

Hi Jud178

I believe the Orphanage was called Greenfields. I had two brothers who were placed there in the 40s they were both there for a few years until they were fostered/adopted by different families from the Wigan area. I have managed to find one brother Francis John but I am not having much luck in finding out anything about my other brother Terry.
Another lady called Laura made a post here a couple of weeks ago, her mum was in the home for a number of years.

Frances

Replied: 11th Dec 2008 at 08:29
Last edited by frances: 11th Dec 2008 at 08:31:12

Posted by: laura (195) 

my mom was raised in there it was called Greenfield orphanage its now called Nugent Care School.
My mom said she used to get beaten alot her brothers were also there too.
When was your mom there?

Replied: 27th Dec 2008 at 21:18

Posted by: jud178 (244)

hi laura,my mother died a couple of years back,so cant confirm exact dates,she was 76 when she died, so from tales and reckoning it was around 1940ish, give or take a year or so.she was once sick and they put her in a room on her own, she used to pray with her rosery beads every night for her dad to come for her, sad isnt it. but like all tales it was an happy ending, she was loved by her 9 children, and often said we killed her with kindness in the nicest possibly way.

Replied: 28th Dec 2008 at 18:07

Posted by: thesurgeon (1445)

Shouldn't this topic be on the 'places' section rather than the 'people' section?

Replied: 28th Dec 2008 at 21:20

Posted by: laura (195) 

awww Jud 178 thats sad my mom was in there from 1942 - 1955 her mom came and got her what was your moms name mabie my mom will remember the name.

Replied: 29th Dec 2008 at 16:52

Posted by: jud178 (244)

laura,my mothers name was jane doran,she came from wallgate.i spoke to my sister who thinks she would have been there roundabout the same time as your mum.

Replied: 30th Dec 2008 at 13:29

Posted by: laura (195) 

I'll ask her if she knows the name your mom would of been a little older than mine shes 66 so she might.

Replied: 30th Dec 2008 at 15:20

Posted by: laura (195) 

hi Jud My mom said she remembers the name and remembers a girl protecting her all the time when she wet the bed she said there was her and another girl that used to wet the bed all time and someone would try to help them cause they used to beat them with a metal hanger

Replied: 30th Dec 2008 at 19:29

Posted by: jud178 (244)

laura,one of those girls was my mother ,i remember the tale well,the nuns used to make the girl stand with wet blanket over her head to teach her a lesson.my mom used to wake her and take her to the loo.could you imagine that going on in todays world.they would have been hung at dawn.

Replied: 31st Dec 2008 at 10:00

Posted by: laura (195) 

no I couldnt imagine the stories my mom told me I cant belive that anyone could do stuff like that to a child. Ive tried to look up information on the Orphange but cant find anything.
take care

Replied: 31st Dec 2008 at 19:07

Posted by: danni (inactive)

this sounds so horrific I cant imagine what your Mums went through. God bless xxx

Replied: 31st Dec 2008 at 22:27

Posted by: misty (13)

i was at the orphanage in billinge i was born in scotland we moved to wigan when i was about3, my dad was a wiganer and we where put, me and my sister who was 18 months older than me in the orphanage for 6 months till my parents where given a house i have bad memories of the nuns i remember my sister found some polish and started to polish one of the coridor floors i went to look for her and when ifound her 2 nuns where charging up the coridor i was so scared that i coulnt get the words out to warn her the grabed hold of her under each arm and draged her away while beating her i think i can remember one young nun called sister theresa she was the only nice one there if you have ever whatched the film the magdaline sisters that was very much as i remember it

Replied: 6th Mar 2009 at 16:48

Posted by: james (178)

Oh Misty, That is so,so, horrible. I don't know how anybody can be mean or cruel to any person or animal.

I am sending you a big hug. ( don't worry, I am not a fella)

Replied: 7th Mar 2009 at 09:28

Posted by: james (178)

PS Misty, Every Christmas my Mother, sister and I would take toys to the orphanage for the children. We were never allowed to see the children. I remember well the dormitories. Rows and rows of beds. the bedding so tight I don't know how they climbed in. Looked as though they wouldn't dare move either once they were in.
It was a very cold place , and I don't mean temperature wise.
I have seen Magdaline sisters.
Wouldn't care but these people were supposed to be good Christians.

Replied: 7th Mar 2009 at 09:36

Posted by: aqui aqui (439)

I went to St Marys RC school Billinge in the 50s and the kids from the Orphanage attended our school.A nun from the Orphanage,Sister marie, was Headmisteress at the school,and manys the time I had 6 of the best from her.

Replied: 7th Mar 2009 at 15:35

Posted by: misty (13)

thanks james, aqui what could have been happening to other kids

Replied: 9th Mar 2009 at 10:24

Posted by: aqui aqui (439)

Well,Misty,they never left thier school dinners. I remember one family, (3 girls and 2 boys)who were in Greenfield Orphanage and went to our school,thier mother had died young and thier father was bringing the kids up on his own.However, he was a miner and was killed in the pit soon after.Thats how the kids finished up in the Orphanage.The eldest lad was in our class and I believe he lives in the usa now and is a millionare

Replied: 9th Mar 2009 at 13:36

Posted by: misty (13)

respect

Replied: 11th Mar 2009 at 11:27

Posted by: everhartd (5)

My mom actually was at Greenfield Orphanage from about 1945 - 57 or so? Her name was Mary Sheila Ryan. She says that there was a Mother Gerald and Sisters Quinas, Lawrence, Isabel. Her favorite was Sister Quinas. She seemed to be the only one that was nice to her. She says that she had issues with wetting the bed a few times and she was hit for it. She remembers being hungary alot and eating carrots from just outside the kitchen. She went to the St. Mary school but she says they never really taught anything. She remembers a Terry Oreilly, Mary McDonald, Martin Clark (alterboy), and Rita Higgins. She remembers the Hoylake trips the most (twice a year). Anyone have any memories? (good or bad), we'd love to hear from you.

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 01:47

Posted by: laura (195) 

my mom remembers Terry Oreilly they used to always stay together everyday they used to tell each other they were going to get married she also remembers Harold Hibbs,and a few others I cant think of the names I will ask her again.My mom remembers Sister Quinas also.

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 16:08
Last edited by laura: 15th May 2009 at 16:57:24

Posted by: laura (195) 

the other names were Mary Agnus Williams, Terry Oneil, Clara Jordon.
Everhartd my mom remembers your mom.
and Misty my mom remembers you too

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 16:22

Posted by: laura (195) 

ps my moms name was Mary Gizzie

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 16:24

Posted by: marieg69 (3359)

jud 178 my husband remembers your mum she was his aunties mate her name was doreen mcguire my husband is peter greenall he lived in melbourne st.said your mum was very good looking and a nice woman

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 20:49

Posted by: jimmy m (168) 

I also went away to school to learn how to walk, that was in the 60's and always thought I had it bad as the people were very strict but nothing as bad as this place. It makes me feel very sad that people could treat other people like this. they were supposed to be christian's well if thats religion for you forget it!

Replied: 15th May 2009 at 23:20

Posted by: laura (195) 

it sounds like it was a bad place from the stories my mom has told me she used to get beat almost everyday. It make you wonder how anyone could do such horrible things to children. the nuns used to tell my mom that nobody would adopt her because she was bad. pretty sad thats for sure.

Replied: 16th May 2009 at 16:31

Posted by: marieg69 (3359)

no wonder the catholic churches are empty when people have so many bad memories

Replied: 19th May 2009 at 14:06

Posted by: laura (195) 

ya no doubt

Replied: 21st May 2009 at 03:12

Posted by: everhartd (5)

I think my mom remembers Mary Gizzi. It's strange because my mom will say that the orphanage was ok even though I'm sure she had a pretty horrible time. She lives in the USA now and was married to an American (my father) for about 25 years then he died (about 10 years ago). She went back and forth a few years after his death (grieving, I think) and is now located in the States. She will not give up her UK citizenship because she loves England. She has always been a hard worker and I feel she raised myself and brother well. She always told me to get an education and to look after myself first (which I did and I thank her for that). She doesn't talk much about her childhood and when she does she tries to make it sound like it was ok. when her mother was 6 months pregnant with her, her father died so, her mother had to work so she put her in the convent (Greenfield). She visited her every Sunday and she was a friend of Sister Quinas so this is why she was nice to my mother. To this day, I, her daughter, see a young child in her that has suffered. She is still a strong Catholic. If only her father didn't die - I wonder what her life would have been like...

Replied: 26th May 2009 at 04:14

Posted by: marieg69 (3359)

i admire your mum for keeping her faith it must be good to believe in the catholic church after all shes been through

Replied: 26th May 2009 at 20:43

Posted by: laura (195) 

my mom doesnt like talking about the orphange she was in there for 13 or 14 years and got beat everyday. she lives in Canada now has for about 30 years I have tried to look up stuff on it but I cant find anything I got a few pictures from a very nice man that has been helping find my moms child she had after she got out of the orphanage

Replied: 28th May 2009 at 23:49

Posted by: everhartd (5)

My husband and I were located in England for 5 years for his job and I visited Greenfield (now called Nugent Care School (I think it's for children with learning disabilities/deaf). I had a tour with the headmaster - I can't remember his name. He mentioned that some of the past women came back to visit and told him some bad stories of beatings etc. I took pictures for my mom and she was very surprised at how it's changed. I guess it was really beautiful on the outside garden when she was there and now there are new buildings around etc. She remembered all the rooms and mentioned that there is one room at the top that the kids thought was haunted. The new headmaster said that the current kids have mentioned it to him as well. Just thought that was interesting. Maybe Misty remembers this also?

Replied: 4th Jun 2009 at 16:35

Posted by: jibchris (1)

xszv sdc

Replied: 23rd Jun 2009 at 21:03

Posted by: bscamp (25)

greenfield house, what a nightmare, the full address was our lady convent greenfield house billinge nr wigan. it was a mixed home for boys and girls.boys lived one side girls the other. we all went to the school in the village called st. mary,s.i remember two girls, they were sisters i know the names but must keep them to myself,one of the girls had to walk down the corridor with her knickers on her head sister isabel used to egg the girls on to mock her the same sister isabel ofton came around to the boys side when one of the boys would be getting punished by a sister mary clair. the boy would be told to take the bottom of his pyjamas down and get across the bed. the screems would be drowned out with sister isabel singing at the top of her voice. i did three years there. ive been in several of theses homes and since then prisons. but our ladys takes the oscar. im no saint but i would rather go to hell, than to meet them nuns in haven. dont think im a hard case,i have to stop here , i cant see the keyboard because of my tears,

Replied: 21st Jul 2009 at 07:48

Posted by: elizabeth (5439) 

What a awful time those children had and they had every excuse to go wrong , but they didnt and made good congratulations to all , not like to day==oh I had a bad upbringing thats what makes me do things = they dont know what bad things are .My father also was placed in the Liverpool Seamans orphanage as his father who was a Captain in the Navy had paid a penny a week for the 3 boys he left behind for a good education although their mother was still alive and well they were considered orphans , and he also told me storys of the cruelty he suffered

Replied: 21st Jul 2009 at 09:29

Posted by: bscamp (25)

i have been very bitter in my past because of the way i was brought up in the care of the Catholic Children's Protection Society (C.C.P.S.) but now i would like to be able to help others try to resolve some of their own issues. With regard to my own case, i was handed over to the C.C.P.S. at the age of 2, when my parents were no longer able to care for me. My parents were never married but lived together and my fathers name was never put on my birth certificate. My parents split up shortly after that and the Catholic Church hounded my mother for money to pay for my upkeep in Billinge. My mother died when i was 7 and only then did the church decide to foster me out, unsuccessfully, i might add. I eventually ended up back in Billinge. Years later i managed to trace my father, by this time i was 27. He was upset with me for not finding him earlier, as it happens he told me that i had 2 sisters from different fathers. I only spent a few weeks with my father then we only kept in touch through the occassional letter and christmas cards. I was 40 by the time i found my sisters. I then tried to contact my father but he had moved back to cyprus. i went to find him but he had died a few days earlier. I also found my new family on my fathers side. Back in England, i wanted my fathers name on my birth certificate. In order to do so i needed my documents from the C.C.P.S. who wouldn't part with them. The court ordered that i be given all my original documents, in the documents i discovered that my father had been trying to get custody of me from the church up until i was 15. In the documents it mentioned my sisters and all about my mother and her relations. I could have saved years of anguish if they had told me the truth from the beginning. If anyone would like any help in finding out how to go about getting their own documents i would be very happy to assist. My reward will be the pleasure i will receive in helping others to find out about themselves and their families.
P.S. The haunted room in Our Lady's Convent, Greenfield House, Billinge, was a dormatory in the attic called St. Judes (the patron saint of lost causes). This was my dormatory.

Replied: 22nd Jul 2009 at 13:04

Posted by: mojim (1679)

Bscamp,my heart goes out to you,no child should have to go through all that,but it has obviously made you a very strong person,good luck to you in whatever you do in life,you sure deserve it.

Replied: 22nd Jul 2009 at 13:33

Posted by: laura (195) 

bscamp could you email me please L795@hotmail.com ( no capitol L though )

Replied: 22nd Jul 2009 at 14:41

Posted by: frances (2831) 

Hi bscamp - You don't say what years you were in the home (if it can be called that). I had two brothers who were put in Greenfields orphanage I am not exactly sure of the years but must have been 1947ish maybe earlier. I admire you for being able to talk about your experiences it cannot be easy and some people wouldn't be able to do this.

My very best wishes - Frances

Replied: 25th Jul 2009 at 20:13

Posted by: bscamp (25)

hi frances, times spent in greenfield was 30/8/1945 -16/9/1946 and 21/4/1955 till 7/3/1957. Sorry frances, i would love to help you but your brothers names don't ring a bell with me but your brothers records will be kept by the c.c.p.s. at Brownlow Hill, Liverpool. I know it is still there as that is where i got mine from. try getting in touch with them to see if they can help. i advise you to go personally as nowadays it is run by more understanding social workers. Wish you lots of luck in your search.

Replied: 26th Jul 2009 at 19:25
Last edited by bscamp: 26th Jul 2009 at 19:26:55

Posted by: frances (2831) 

Hello bscamp - Thank you for your reply.

I did manage to find out about both my brothers, I actually found the youngest Francis John and I am now in touch with him, I have found out a little about the eldest - Terry who sadly died a few years ago never knowing that he had a sister. I am still looking for a photograph of Terry for it would be lovely to know what he looked like.

I would like to get the records of both brothers maybe it would mention the circumstances that my brothers were placed into Greenfield Orphanage perhaps it would answer a few questions for me.

Francis John & Terry weren't told that they were brothers until they asked about having the same surname.

Best wishes - Frances

Replied: 27th Jul 2009 at 10:08
Last edited by frances: 29th Jul 2009 at 23:58:44

Posted by: bscamp (25)

I have heard so much recently about the abuse of Irish orphans in Ireland by the Catholic Priests and nuns. What about the orphans in England? Don't forget our orphanages were run by the same Irish priests and nuns. I know Gordon Brown is going to apologise to the orphans that were sent to Australia. Who is going to apologise to us?
A Boston Lawyer employed by the Church commented, "Why are these people in their 60's only coming forward now? is it for the money that is getting dished out by the church in compensation?" Well, let me tell you, I came forward at 14, this is documented in my files after i complained that we were forever getting belted. They wrote " Nicholas is a habitual liar." They also said that they don't and have never owned a belt but on one occasion they did admit to using an official strap on the boys and whenever it was used a note was sent to the Home Office. I wonder if Gordon will ever see fit to apologise to those who were in the English orphanages? All these beatings and sexual abuses is big news these days, may God forgive. I have lived this big news all my life.

Replied: 30th Nov 2009 at 17:20

Posted by: the_gwim_weaper (inactive)

Well done for sharing your story, Bscamp. Makes for a very interesting read.

Replied: 30th Nov 2009 at 19:54

Posted by: tomplum (12354) 

i went to the school next door, birchley, the nuns used to teach there, sister vincent and sister gerard i remember quite well, they were very free with the cane, even though i would be only 5/6 at the time, i had many friends who lived in the orpanage

Replied: 30th Nov 2009 at 21:08

Posted by: jud178 (244)

when i started this post it was to find out of my mothers early life,i read this post on nov 30,its my wedding anniversary, and mothers birthday ,,strange ,,i hope shes looking down with a smile.

Replied: 1st Dec 2009 at 11:18

Posted by: soloman (800)

O.M.G, what terrible stories I have just read, I thought my upbringing in the catholic school was tough, but this is just to awful to contemplate, my heart goes out to all of you and the children in Ireland who suffered at these nuns hands, how you keep your faith I will never know.
I lost mine years ago.

Replied: 1st Dec 2009 at 11:25

Posted by: tomplum (12354) 

yea i had the faith caned out of me, there were 2 masses on sunday the first was 9.am which the nuns attended and the other was 11am, because i lived 3 miles away my parents would take me to the later mass, because the nuns did't see me there due to them going to early mass, i got caned monday morning,

Replied: 1st Dec 2009 at 11:41

Posted by: soloman (800)

That is excactly what happened to me tomplum, I didnt live 3 miles away but our house didn't wake up till about nine on sunday mornings, so it was 10 oclock mass for us kids, and like you cane on Monday morning because sister had'nt seen us in church, I left school at 15 and never went to church again apart from weddings christenings and funerals.

Replied: 1st Dec 2009 at 13:59

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Merry Christmas everyone, especially to you jud178 for starting this page and bringing us together.

Replied: 25th Dec 2009 at 07:04

Posted by: sydneylass (2346) 

I'm not shocked nor surprised by what's written in these posts but very angry and deeply saddened, no child should have to endure such cruelty. My heart goes out to you and I wish you all the best.

Replied: 26th Dec 2009 at 11:25

Posted by: jud178 (244)

bscamp/sydneylass thank you , my mother would have loved reading all info gathered on this post .it will be three years since she past.but she died knowing she couldnt have been loved more.merry chritmas to all .

Replied: 26th Dec 2009 at 13:30

Posted by: noddy2 (301) 

shela farrel lived in daneils lane digmoor uphodlland late 50s early 60s would be in her teens ofton wonder what hapend to her she just disappeared any one help DAVE

Replied: 26th Dec 2009 at 15:55

Posted by: dav127 (1)

my sister gill and i were in greenfield from approx 1947-50.
i think there were very few boys - maybe 30 but many more girls. i was an altar boy and had several severe beatings mainly from the mother superior.the sister in charge of the altar boys was a 'hattie jacques' like figure and she was also the headmistress and could weild a cane as good as anyone. most of the boys had cuts under their earlobes from being pickedup by the ears and shaken. i remember a girl called jean who helped the nuns look after the boys; bath them, get ready for school etc. there was a blonde boy called o'leary - jean used to comb his big curl. several boys and girls had ringworm and we missed school for a year. we were turned out into a field all day. even though our heads were painted with iodine every day, it was the best summer of my stay. i do remember a Mr Noble the gardener who was very kind to me. i helped him put chicken muck on the rose bed where the nuns walked up and down saying their prayers - the stronger the smell, the better we liked it. we had salts and buttermilk to drink once a week. hated it. can't even eat yoghurt now! and i remember having to polish the dining room floor before school with polish bumpers that were far too big for small children. I hated the place and thought of all nuns as being in the same category for years!

Replied: 27th Dec 2009 at 13:26

Posted by: jud178 (244)

dear dave, my mother was at greenfields until around 1943ish, your tales are the ones we would here,when we were small we always thought they were stories from a book, but sadly not, anyway hope you and your sister are ok ,thank you for your info, kind regards to you both,x

Replied: 27th Dec 2009 at 15:08

Posted by: monumental (317) 

It saddens me to read of the atrocities by the "Church". They have a lot to answer for.
I am a practising Christian and it grieves me to read all these stories all in the name of the "Church".
We have a lot to forgive.

Replied: 28th Dec 2009 at 17:49

Posted by: jud178 (244)

sometimes we can forgive,not often do people forget.

Replied: 28th Dec 2009 at 20:23

Posted by: everhartd (5)

I just wanted to thank everyone for posting on this site. My Mom doesn't talk about this part of her life much and it's been very interesting/heartbreaking to read these stories. You know, my Mom just gave me a cross stitch that she did of the Last Supper (huge and absolutely beautiful) She spent probably 8 months doing this for me. I think that she has hope that there is a beautiful and good God even though there are terrible things that have happened. I believe what goes around comes around. God knows what was in their hearts and those nuns/priests will NOT be there when you all arrive in Heaven. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Replied: 30th Dec 2009 at 02:41

Posted by: elizabeth (5439) 

Reading all this makes you thank God for your own lovely upbringing and warm and loving home
But I will say there was one Nun at the Convent who most likely belonged to that type of people and that was Sister Margaret she was hell if she didnt like you , even my Aunt who was a Notre Dame Nun said of her she should never be in the order , she certainly didnt like me, and when she became Provincial she took it out on my most kind and placid Auntie in lots of ways , but then I heard she was removed from the order after she became Mother Provincial for the way she went about her duties , and peace was rstored to the Community and my Aunt. So sorry for what happened to your families

Replied: 31st Dec 2009 at 09:25

Posted by: misty (13)

happy new year to you all, the past has gone we've all servived look forward to the future best wishes to all, misty

Replied: 31st Dec 2009 at 15:54

Posted by: tomplum (12354) 

just wondering if anyone else had the same mental arithmatic lessons that i had from the nuns at the school next door.
we all had to stand up beside our own desk in a line, we had to outstetch our arms and sister vincent would walk down the line and randomly ask multiplication questions,,example whats 6 X 5 ? then allow 3 seconds to answer, if you gave the wrong answer or could't answer, the cane came down apon your hand,,this system was supposed to quicken our mental arithmatic, at the time i was 5/6 years old..it did't work with me, and might have had an adverse affect, because when i was asked a sum, i was under pressure and gave up and just waited for the sting of the cane hitting my hand,,

Replied: 2nd Jan 2010 at 10:37

Posted by: lesley (514)

Makes me want to cry reading some of your stories. Life must have been very difficult for you all being in such a horrible place at such young ages.

I just went to Google out of curiosity and typed in Greenfields Orphanage - up came a heading - When I was 12 months old - Mum/Jean Teresa Noble.

Apparently this was written and was to be read at the person's funeral and they had asked for it to be put on the Internet.

I am sorry I can't do a "link" to this as I don't know how to do that - but if you follow the instructions above you should find it okay. The lady in question also seems to have been sent to Greenfields Orphanage in Billinge and she wasn't very happy either.

Hope you find it an interesting read.

Hope you all have a great 2010

Replied: 2nd Jan 2010 at 12:28

Posted by: tomplum (12354) 

lesley, thanks for that link.i knew this woman and her husband dennis,,they were friends of my parents and went out drinking in the billinge legion.i went to their house many times and played in the streets of billinge with their children,
wow what a mind jogger. it truly is a small world.

Replied: 2nd Jan 2010 at 15:09

Posted by: tomplum (12354) 

here' the link
jean noble

Replied: 2nd Jan 2010 at 15:14

Posted by: jfkaus (31)

My Uncle Jack & Aunt Annie Mitchinson lived in Billinge with my cousins Jack & Audrey. I only have pleasant memories of happy times spent with family in Billinge and I am horrified to read all these sad stories. However, it is certainly obvious that out of all this disgusting behaviour by these Nuns, that the people of Wigan and beyond, are on the side of the victims of this unacceptable behaviour. May you all have peace in 2010 and beyond.jfk

Replied: 2nd Jan 2010 at 16:46

Posted by: franki (1)

Hello everyone. I have just joined wiganworld and noticed the references to our lady's convent, greenfield house.My name is Francis Charters and I was born in Liverpool. I was orphaned in 1954 and along with my older sister elizabeth(Betty) and my younger brother Daniel was placed in the convent. We were there for a couple of years and then fostered out to a couple of people in West derby, Liverpool. My memories of the convent are all bad, I have nothing good to say about the place or the so called Christian nuns who ran it.Everything I read on the website is correct.We children were beaten for the slighest thing and suffered as a cosequenc later on in life. I never got over the abuse, either dished out to other children (and being made to watch)or on the recieving end myself. My sister Betty suffered claustiphobia all her life as a result of being locked up in a dark cuboard by one of the nuns. I well remember sister Mary Clare as being particuarly vindictive towards some children including myself. We spent many hours on our knees praying either in the chaple or in the common room, and I have suffered with my knees for many a year. I used to see my sister and may younger brother at mealtimes and when Danny and I went to bed in the dormitory as Betty was kept in the girls part of the convent. I remember going to Hoylake on holiday and it was one of the few time that children were fairly safe as other people were around and the nuns did not want enyone to see us being abused. Ther was also a party once per year at the American air base at Burtonwood , near Warrington but only so many children could go as there was not enough room for all the children from all the orphanages in that part of Lancashire. I could say a lot more but it still upsets me to this day that anyone could treat children in this way. I have poor memory for people whowere in the home , maybe this is down to traumer , but maybe someone out ther remembers me or my sister and brother. I feel sad at thes memories but at the same time I feel that a weight has been lifted of my shoulder . Good luck to all and God bless to those people who were in the home.

Replied: 28th Jan 2010 at 16:04

Posted by: jud178 (244)

hello franki,it was my mother who was in the orphanage,yesterday would have been her daimond wedding anniversary,and tommorow is 3 years since she passed on,the family always meet up for speical memories,we are all out for a meal,yesterday my sister told my mam said her number was 29,sounds like some war camp number.thanks for your entry. god bless your family.x

Replied: 28th Jan 2010 at 18:51

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hello Franki, I was at Billinge for the second time in 1954 for a couple of years. From there i went to a small home for about ten boys. I remember going to Hoylake for a weeks holiday. The holiday started with going on a big sharabang (coach), as soon as those big walls were behind us we started singing songs, we'd have our sandwiches already made for us and even they seemed to taste better. When we arrived at Hoylake we'd go to a big church, next door to the church was a hall where, of a night-time we slept on the floor with a blanket over us. The next morning, as every morning on the holiday, we would be lined up in two's and walked over to Hoylake open-air baths. I was about 11 years of age. In the front of the que was sister mary clare encouraging us to smile and be happy. She would have that big navy blue habit (i think that's what they call them) and a big butterfly hat. The hat was about 2 feet wide, on her side was a big string of rosary beads nearly touching the ground, if you were facing her she would have a white starched bib with a large crucifix on a chain, the crucifix was about 5 inches long made of wood. As far as the public was concerned it was a picture of innocence and love but we knew that in the hidden pockets of that habit was a big thick strap. My name is Nicky Cunningham, I don't expect you to remember me as it was a long time ago and i myself have forgot a lot of names as there were a lot of boys coming and going. You might like to know that years after leaving Greenfield i asked about sister mary clare only to be told that she had left to get married and had fostered a child, can you imagine having sister mary clare as your mother. I also remember the parties at Burtonwood held by the Americans at Christmas. i remember a great big hall full of orphans from all over Lancashire and enough toys for all of us. We managed to play with the toys for a couple of days and then they would mysteriously disappear. The only time we would see them again after that would be if we had visitors but when the visitors went so went the toys. But you've got to admit Franki, when times have got bad you just have to think of those days and say what am i upset for we've been through the worst. Ta-ra Pal.

Replied: 30th Jan 2010 at 19:06

Posted by: marieg69 (3359)

jud i think its so sad that a child was given a number

Replied: 31st Jan 2010 at 14:48

Posted by: soloman (800)

Oooh and I thought I had a hard childhood, it was a walk in the park to what some of these poor kids went through, nuns eh

Replied: 31st Jan 2010 at 15:39

Posted by: annefair (1179)

Hi me again,had no idea about your mother and all this. It was awful what they went through. My mother used to like your mum ,she was quite a character. Sure you must miss them as I miss my mother and dad.xx

Replied: 31st Jan 2010 at 18:40

Posted by: jud178 (244)

thank you anne,my mother was definatly a character,it was hard to get a seat in the house, it was always full off friends and family.she could not walk past an homeless person at all,was always giving them,i remember a tramp in vere st, knocking on the door begging,she gave him food, somthing warm to wear and told him dont come back. ha ha.you might think me silly anne, but my mothers funeral was really lovely.. i miss her dreadfully.

Replied: 1st Feb 2010 at 11:46

Posted by: royzeee (1)

I have been reading the comments on this message board about Greenfields convent and it has shocked me!! My mother went to Greenfields from 1945-1950 and has nothing but good memories of the place!!

I took her back there 5 months ago and staff were a little shocked that my Mum was full of praise for the place…. I guess she was lucky….I read her some of the posts and she was totally shocked and said she never had any bad experiences or saw any bad things in her 6 years there…. My mothers name was Rose Ward. She was from Liverpool and now lives in Wales….

Regards

Roy

Replied: 18th Mar 2010 at 07:41

Posted by: carlo-b (3)

does anybody remember my Dad Francis Blake?

Replied: 22nd Apr 2010 at 23:07
Last edited by carlo-b: 22nd Jan 2012 at 09:12:57

Posted by: carlo-b (3)

heres the link to the photo. im wondering if somebody will remember him!!
Frank Blake
http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn32/photus03/Mumdad65copy.jpg

Replied: 22nd Apr 2010 at 23:09

Posted by: maryannmarb@aol.com (1)

My sister has sent me your website. Our mother was also at Billinge with her sister. Their names were MARY and HELEN HAYES. They were from Liverpool and were sent there when my mum was 3 and my Aunt Helen was 8, that was about 1937 until 1945. My aunt left at 16 to become a nurse and my mum went to live with her mother in Rainhill. I remember my mum saying the nuns were very cruel. They both hated it there. I would love to find any records or find anyone who remembers my mum or aunt. My mum died in 2002 would have been 76 now and my aunt Helen would have been 81. My sister and I visited last year and was shown around the house. There are some pictures on the wall showing what it was like in those days - the beds were back to back and we were told recreation meant sitting with your finger on your mouth.

Replied: 12th Jun 2010 at 19:53

Posted by: laura (195) 

Hi Mary I emailed the Nugent House School ( former Greenfeild Orphanage ) I think they do have the records there still. They emailed me back & said they dont but they seemed to be able to tell me when my mom was put in there & when she left Im sure if they dont then someone has to.
I would like to find out more though.

Replied: 21st Jun 2010 at 16:20

Posted by: singlecynthia (inactive)

Removed by moderator

Replied: 19th Jul 2010 at 22:09
Last edited by brian: 20th Jul 2010 at 17:06:44

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi bscamp I was in Greenfield with you nick you may recall John Kearns,Patrick McNulty, J McConvil,Francis Blake, myself Brian Smith Mary McDonald, Frances Birket,Maria Moloy,Ann Stock Alice Sutton to name but a few Sister Mary Clair and Sister Iabel were great Mary Clair fought many batles for us lads surly you remember Mary Clair getting up a rafel to buy the lads a tv and further buying us bikes,record player,and record when we requested.From my part I thank Mary Clair for giving values that I LIVE BY TO THIS DAY I never found any staff or Nun to be anything but careing and helpfull whom I love and respect for giving me happy memorys if ther is such a thing as good fortune I Would like meet and thank them personaly for the sacrafices they made. I recall going to the baths in Hoylake yes we did go in an ordely manner that was only way Mary Clair could keep us safe I dot recolect alot of regimentation,uator
Mary Clair promoted self worth freedom and independence Nick have another think and put the record straight,last time I spoke to you some time ago it was in l,pool you had just returned from sea telling me of your trip crossing the equator having your hair cut off and initiated by the crew, great to read that you are still going I hope you are well
Ilive in Wigan and would like to see or hear from you and any one from Greenfield take care Nick get back












crossing the eq



C

Replied: 31st Aug 2010 at 21:09

Posted by: mucker75 (505)

my grandmother and her sister where brought up at Greenfields after their mother died, my grandmothers name was Maureen Lenehan (Later Maureen Dutton). She died in 1985, she was only in her early '50s.
Can't really remember her mentioning her upbringing at Greenfields, it can't have been that bad though as I went to nursery school their and she never had a problem with it.

Replied: 31st Aug 2010 at 22:32

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi AQUI AQUI(116)
First can I correct in my reply to bscamp for my spelling errors i.e raffle and Isabel due to tiredness.
Regarding school dinners kids at greenfield did not have free meals at school all our meals were catered for in greenfield. I know that family you refer to they are the Hearns, John was the eldest & his eldest sister was named Mary, very good at Irish folk dancing, in fact I took her to the Locano in Liverpool 1960, John formed a group called The Vacaros & he was the drummer, he was also in a film with Cliff Richard called Gonks go Beat, their father left them a house in Whiston of which I visited & Mary was keeping the Family together. John & I had a trial for Liverpool at the same time we were both in Greenfield & went to St.Marys, I was in Mr Beasleys class, you were probably in Mr Millers. Brian Smith.

Replied: 1st Sep 2010 at 11:10

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi AQUI AQUI
The Family I was referring to are called Kearns not Hearns as the World can see I am not very bright on the keyboard.

Replied: 1st Sep 2010 at 11:15

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Carlo-B(2)
I do remember your Dad, We were both in St.Edward & then Greenfields, I met your mum & Dad when they lived in Southport, your father worked there, they invited me back for a drink & gave myself & partner a strong spanish drink which came with a warning, as to its strength, it tasted of aniseed it was not pernod. I also used to visit your Grandmother with your Dad, she lived in Liverpool, if you need anymore information let me know, I would be prepared to show you all the places your father lived & the area your Grandma lived, very sorry they split up, no doubt he has missed out on a lot as I cherish my son & the relationship that we both have. Brian Smith.

Replied: 1st Sep 2010 at 11:33

Posted by: bscamp (25)

hiya brian,
made up to hear from you, it must be over fifty years. Everytime i hear Elvis sing 'I forgot to remember to forget', I think of you in that bedsit. Over the years being an Elvis fan I thought I might hear you on a record as you had him off to a T. just a few names you never mentioned florence stock, sister to ann, joey draper, joey melvyn and Bernie smith. Bernie left greenfield with me to go to the halfway house. I was also in the Eddy's, remember brother ferguson, br.luan, and a brother we called whitechief. Do you remember the whalebone? I remember when you came to greenfield you where head and shoulders bigger than all of us, hey brian no nun was going to put you over the bed. we new each other for a few months and became very good friends i also knew john kearns, we new each other about two years, we were like glue from the first to the last day. leaving the home was heaven, leaving my friends to this day has been hell. Our experiences were obviously very different as unfortunately, my memories are not quite as fond of the place as yours. However, I am pleased for you and the others that things seemed to improve. For me though, I can still remember the beatings as if it were yesterday.
Are you still in touch with any of the others?

Nick.

Replied: 2nd Sep 2010 at 17:34

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Nick great to hear from you I did not know Ann had a sister wonder what hapend to them I do rember Joey he through a wobler and sister Denis came sprinked holy water over him saying he had the devil in him you will recall she was very old and Joey was fakeing it was at the time Mary Clare was in hospital and all the lads were up in St Judes dorm having a riot jumping on the beds breaking the springs I heard of the whale bone but never saw it you must have been Sacred Hearts cottage with bros,Ccampion, Stanishlaus and with the Morris brothers Dave Ocalahan Iam in touch with Dave over the moon you got back sorry as to how you feel towards Greenfield as you was liked by all the lads especialy by Paddy Mac and my self the girls were fond of you due your good looks no one had a bad word to say about you as you were good company, I do rember ALL the names you mention wonder were they are now what are you doing at this time where do you live? did you stay at sea? Nick love to speak to you if you get a public telephone number I will ring you

Replied: 2nd Sep 2010 at 19:51

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mucker75 Ican rember the name Maureen but not the sir name it may not be the same person but resT asure Greenfield was fantastic they would of been well cared for Bian Smith

Replied: 2nd Sep 2010 at 20:10

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Nick my Email ad briansmith176@yahoo.co.uk

Replied: 2nd Sep 2010 at 20:18

Posted by: aqui aqui (439)

Hi Briansmith. I remember John kearns well, we left school together in 1960. Our last teacher was owd Polly Liptrot who was Mr Beedsleys Aunt. I remember all Johns sisters and his younger brother, Peter, who I later worked with at Parkside Colliery. I also saw John play at the Old Hall pub in Ince and other venues. I have not seen John or Peter for many years but I seem to recall Peter telling me that John lived and worked in the USA in the music busness and was doing very well for himself. You confused me a little with the name, Briansmith, because there was a local lad in our class with that name, who, like myself, didnt go to greenfield. The only Nuns I knew from greenfield were teachers at St Marys, Sister Marie, who was quite andy with the cane, and Sister Vincent who tought the infants.


Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 15:29

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

HI Aqui Aqui I rember Polly Liptrot she also tought the infints do you come from Birchley and know Joe Smith he sat next to me in school great guy he lived around the corner from the school I Thought Birchley was a happy place all though I was only there for a coulpe years I still feel a sense of belonging hope you feel the same sometimes memories can get clouded brian

Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 18:22

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Nick waiting to hear from you I hope you are ok we have so many memories to exchange it would be great if the old crowdcould get together chew the fat get back Nick brian

Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 18:39

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi Brian,
I,ve been made up all day with getting in touch with you and i dont know where to start. Here goes. I now live in cyprus, lived here for about twenty five years. I have a horse, two cats, eight dogs, and last but not least a wonderful partner, claire, who originates from Blackrod, near Horwich.lovely to hear you have a son, maybe one day i,ll have the privilage to meet him, who knows? You might say, why cyprus? well Brian i,m a cypriot on my fathers side, it took years of tracing but i finally cracked the system anyway enough about me for now. From now on we'll talk through our personal email. My email address is bmiracle@cytanet.com.cy
P.S. Great to hear John Kearns is doing well.

Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 20:26

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi Mucker75,
Was your grandmother's sister called Bernadette Lenehan. If so, I remember her, She was one of the older girls. She was there in the early 50's.

Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 21:11

Posted by: mucker75 (505)

Yes she was, kathleen and bernadette are still alive. they had 2 brothers as well who are both dead now, tim and peter. The brothers where brought up in an orphanage in Liverpool as far as I know.

Replied: 3rd Sep 2010 at 22:07

Posted by: aqui aqui (439)

HI Brian smith.Yes I do know a Lad called Smith who lived round the corner from the school but hes name was Brian Smith.I also worked at Parkside Colliery with him too.When the colliery closed Brian started his own driving school and did quite well. I havnt seen him for a couple of years now.I live in Wigan now and go to St Marys occasionally to visit my parents grave. The old school has gone now of course with new houses built on the land

Replied: 5th Sep 2010 at 15:55

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi aqui aqui maybe your brian smith had a brother called Joseph good to know some Smiths are doing ok tough job you had I hope life got better for you when the pit closed and left you in good health brian

Replied: 5th Sep 2010 at 18:31

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

bscamp Hi Nick just getting used to the computer dont know howe to send e mails yet but will learn on Monday from my son,have you retired or like me still working? Nick my home is your home should you and family wish to holiday,Ihave been in touch with Dave Ocallahan today he says he rembers you from the Eddies I asked him could I give you his email Add he agreed I will forward it next Brian



Replied: 5th Sep 2010 at 19:09

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

did john have a younger brother called tommy and peter kearns who moved to liverpool when they closed greenfields.do es anyone remember peter irene valade

Replied: 21st Sep 2010 at 19:16
Last edited by carolecanada: 21st Sep 2010 at 19:23:55

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

carolecanda Jonh did have a brother Peter bscamp will know more as they were close frieds they moved to Whiston just outside L'pool I will aske Nicky to respond Brian

Replied: 22nd Sep 2010 at 19:20

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

we were in greenfield in 1958until 1961or62 some good and some horrific memories i remember sister marie claire ,sister lawrence, sister jean, isabel, loui, not sure if head nun was mother gerald or benidict,

Replied: 22nd Sep 2010 at 22:08

Posted by: bscamp (25)

I remember sister Magdaline, she looked after the very young girls of about 5 to 8 years of age,she was clearly the oldest nun in greenfield, one of her jobs was dishing up the meals.I used to think she was evil. Well sometines, not to often, all the lads would go down to the girls recreation room, maybe it would be some holy day, any way it was the only time we could touch a girl with the nuns looking on. we would dance mainly to Slim Witmans record i only know it started with i'll be calling you, and it was dead slow, we would be about arms lenth, there was no way of standing on each toe's mores the pity, any way with the nuns and the statue's looking on we had to be on our best behaviour. I did look forward to these's holy days as we could stay up till 8.30.pm sometimes sister Mary Claire would ask, would anyone like to dance with her,i would be up there like a shot, be fair there's a bit of a groveler in all of us.Did she liked dancing,she would spin me,throw me,well she was taking the man's part. Two things sister Mary Claire liked,dancing and singing irish rebel songs,bless her.

Replied: 23rd Sep 2010 at 08:57

Posted by: bscamp (25)

I dont know what happened there i sent that last message without finishing it,any way here go'es, getting back to sister Magdaline.At 8.30pm it was time to go to bed,but just before leaving the recreation room sister Gerald who was the mother Superior would have a big bottle of sweets we would all shout out,IT"S A SCRAMBLE,she would throw the sweets everywere,we would all be fighting to fill our pockets,none of the sweets would have wrappers on,who cared,the only thing that would scare us was Magdaline, she was like a bat out of hell,she would be screaming like a banshee filling her apron knocking anyone that was in her way, we all knew that the sweets she was collecting was for her little girls.I know your up there sister Magdaline,i just want to let you know there was never an ounce of evil in you as you were fighting for your children.I just wish i had some one like you when i was a lad
Brian, we did have some good times.

Replied: 23rd Sep 2010 at 10:23

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi carolecanada
at your spell it would have been Mother Benidict she had two black Labradors Ralph Morris used to take them for walks I support Nicky memories and will jog his brain regarding the music I don't rember Sister Loui but I do the others bscamp was there longer tha me and all the girls liked him very envious but good pal to Paddy Mac and myself to this day be in touch Nick and apart from Clair tell all those girls that I turned to be good looking and give me a break

Replied: 24th Sep 2010 at 12:00

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Brian my misses thinks you are really funny. This chat room has really changed our lives. even though we jump out and correspond to the people privately, it's a breath of fresh air. Thanks to Jud for starting this off. The reason i wrote about sister magdaline was that she turned out to be a true blue, and because she was in such a low position in the home she was a true saint. Thank you Brian, you really are beginning to jog my memory. Even the bad times are good.

Replied: 24th Sep 2010 at 16:10

Posted by: frances (2831) 

There was another thread about Greenfield Orphanage before this one - I don't know if you have seen it


Greenfield Orphanage take 1

Replied: 24th Sep 2010 at 16:46

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

does anyone have any photos of greenfeilds home old or recent ones.thank you.

Replied: 24th Sep 2010 at 23:29

Posted by: laura (195) 

I have some that someone took for me of what it looks like now an some pictures that he took off the wall I will try and upload them

Replied: 24th Sep 2010 at 23:46

Posted by: laura (195) 

her is a link to the pictures of Greenfeild orphanage as it looks now hopefully it works
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/ramblerx/GreenfieldAsWas?authkey=quEO-YYYNvY

Replied: 25th Sep 2010 at 05:03

Posted by: frances (2831) 

Replied: 25th Sep 2010 at 06:43
Last edited by frances: 25th Sep 2010 at 08:52:16

Posted by: laura (195) 

thanks frances I cant ever figure out how to do it

Replied: 25th Sep 2010 at 14:47

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Thanks Laura, it was nice to see the photo's of greenfield as it is now. the most poigniant photo to me was the photo of the stairwell and the very low bannister rail for the children to hold onto. It brought back memories for me of all the small children walking up and down there. I also noticed the carpet on the floor in the corridors which covered the highly polished wooden floors that we had to polish. Also the lack of statues that used to be on every corner. I've got more control of my imagination since then as in those days it was very haunting as the statues eyes seemed to be following you.
Thanks once again.
Nick

Replied: 26th Sep 2010 at 18:06

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

does anyone remember the statue of our lady in a big rockery.thank you for the photographs i remembered the chapel and the wooden cupboards.did anyone ever get any mail as our letters use to be opened before we read them.

Replied: 27th Sep 2010 at 12:33

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

my sister irene said does anyone remember the tailor sisters jean joan and there was one more,liz fagin.veronica manley,joyce who had a brother called greg,sheila and kathline the twins.

Replied: 27th Sep 2010 at 12:39

Posted by: laura (195) 

your welcome for the pictures my mom remembers having to polish the floors & cupboards she used to get beat all the time because she wouldnt do it good enough for them she remembers the nuns telling her to put elbow grease into it she never knew what that meant so she would look in the cupboards for it. then she would get beat again.
she remember the statues she said there used to be a huge one outside the front of the building too.

Replied: 27th Sep 2010 at 17:09

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi carolecanda
I remember the tailors sisters we the boys were not allowed to mix with the girls only on special occasion did Jean have light fair hair and had avery pale complexion.Yes I remember all our mail being opened mail sent and recieved I also can recall the chapel on Sundays dressing in are best togs and having to get changed after mass and before breakfast the girls sat on the left the boys on the right, Mary clair behind the boys Iabel behind the girls I pass through billinge every day going to work becouse of the seperation we only realy got to know the girls in our class
take Brian Smith

Replied: 27th Sep 2010 at 18:08

Posted by: carolecanada (6)

when greenfeilds closed around 25 children got moved to liverpool .sister lawrence became the mother head the home also sister isobel sister jean and the cook sister mary.i was lucky my sister and brother moved with me and the home was a lot smaller, so we saw each other every day, were in greenfeilds we were kept seperated.

Replied: 27th Sep 2010 at 19:21

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Carole
Iknow the home you refere to it was in Wavertree you may recall the Abbey cinema it was also close to Olive Mount I visited the home just after there holiday in Ileland St isabel gave me a pack of cigs that she had brought back you probably went to the same school as I did when I was in Olive Mount, Ido remember the statue you could see it from your dorm
Brian

Replied: 28th Sep 2010 at 18:25

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

dave lukins (1)
Well well well..after all these years. I was at Billinge from an early age..(1953-58ish) and remember it well. I remember being there quite some time before I was told that my brother Brian was also in the convent. As he was a few years older we were kept apart and saw each other only on visiting Sunday. Having family members in that convent did not mean sibling were kept together..quite the opposite.

And who does not remember Sister Mary-Claire??? the only nuns' name I have remembered for almost 60 years. If there was one person in the World that should never have been a nun then this was the one. Even today I remember her using a cane with boot laces on us kids. She was a thug in a Habit.

I remember walking to school in all weathers. Doing my Holy Communion at St Marys Church and even doing the May Pole Dance..although I don't tell the kids or grandkids about that.

Does anyone remember the Lee brothers, three Chinese kids who my mother took under her wing as they never had any visitors. I, like most of us are terrible at names but the one kid I remember was a lad called Joseph Oxley. Joseph had 'sticky-out' ears and the nuns made sure he never forgot it. He was made to stand in the middle of the room and us kids were made to laugh at him..most did ..I never, and that is probably why I remember his name to this day, the only name.

It's great to hear from so many people who remember their time there, or their parents time there. Some good, mostly Bad with a capital B.

Replied: 16th Oct 2010 at 00:10
Last edited by dave lukins: 16th Oct 2010 at 11:39:01

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave I do rememer John Lee great guy worked at watsons garage as a panel beater and ended up self employed I would love to hear from him,I think I remember your name you should rember Nicky Cunningham the names will come back Dave. Nicky bscamp would be a good starting point he is very help full
perhaps we all could meet up some day
Brian

Replied: 17th Oct 2010 at 14:23

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Thanks for the reply Brian. I went to Greenfield from about 3yrs old and left at 9yrs old. Sadly my memories are mostly not good. I can 'see' every part of the convent in my minds eye but don't remember too many names. I certainly remember the attic dorms and having to lay on our backs, arms crossed, and woe betide you if you moved or turned over.

One particular dreadful episode I remember was when I got appendicitis and they kept me in the dorm so long it burst and I got peritonitis and nearly died. I was rushed to hospital and was given the last rights.

It really is great to hear from so many people who went through those years, some had it good and some not so good. Looking at the posts here mostly not good.

When my wife read the posts she said "now I know why you are Mr Angry" I have only ever brushed on my time there to her and kept it mostly to myself. Most of it is not conducent to good bed time reading.


It would indeed be interesting to meet after so many years. The last time we were all together was walking to school as kids and now we are all 'getting on a bit'

Take care...hope to speak again soon.

Replied: 17th Oct 2010 at 20:37

Posted by: marieg69 (3359)

Welcome to WW dave some of these stories are heartbreaking

Replied: 17th Oct 2010 at 20:49

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

They are indeed Marie. Some we have remembered for many years. Childhood is supposed to be one of happiness and memories of hugs and kisses. To this day I'm not a 'huggy' type of guy. There may well have been good times but they are clouded by other thoughts.

PS. Many thanks for the welcome....very kind of you.

Replied: 17th Oct 2010 at 22:19
Last edited by dave lukins: 17th Oct 2010 at 23:09:56

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi all it has come to my notice that from the care system some have become MILLIONARES and others peasant I would to put my name forward as chairperson for the peasants and except any advice from the millionares

Replied: 18th Oct 2010 at 12:48

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

My advice is ditch the peasants and Chair the millionaires, making sure the fee is 'appropriate' to their standing.

Replied: 18th Oct 2010 at 16:07
Last edited by dave lukins: 18th Oct 2010 at 16:07:49

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi DAVE
Thank you for your advice I take it that you are the first millionare to offer away forward and I Look to your fee appropriate to your standing and await further advice from your good self and others
Brian

Replied: 18th Oct 2010 at 18:16

Posted by: grandad (2082)

Does anyone know if the Lenehan family ended up living in Carr Mill, I remember a Peter Lenehan from the late 50's, he lived in a cottage near the dam at Carr Mill, I did hear he passed away a few years ago.

Replied: 18th Oct 2010 at 22:15

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi Dave
Brian has just told me to have a look at the message board. I was there when Joseph Oxley first came to greenfield. sister Mary Clair was carrying him into the boys rec room, there was oviously something wrong with him, at that time we only had one rec room for all the boys. He did have very big ears and eyes like an owl, wavy brown hair, and a moon type of face also you would never see him without his thumb in his mouth. Poor Joey, he did cause me a bit of grief. One day, sister Mary Clair told me that Joey was having problems sleeping and that Joey would be sleeping with me, i did'nt mind too much as i thought it would only be for a few days. Mary Clair also told me to wake him up in the night to take him to the toilet, as he wet the bed, i told Mary Clair i would be happy to look after little Joey, looking back on it i was grovelling, but a little bit of the grovel worked wonders. Every night i took little Joey for a pee, every morning the bed was soaked. Joey never went to school, it was like he was on permanent holidays. To stop Joey from peeing i told him the devil was going to come in the night and take him to hell as all the people that wet the bed go to hell. Coming home from school one day sister mary clair was standing by the rec room with little joey in her arms with his thumb in his mouth. She looked at me with a scowl and told me to get to my bed. I knew that I was going to get hit for something and I couldn't for the life of me think what! She followed me up to the dormatory with little joey and sat him on the bed. She went into her own cubilcle to get the strap out with the throngs on the end. She called me the hangman's noose and that I had petrified poor little joey. It took seconds for me to think about jumping out of the window which was about a 20 foot drop onto concrete or make a run for it. I was shouting to joey how sorry I was and that Jesus did want him in heaven. But all I could see on joey's face was a twisted smile as he knew what was going to happen to me. I turned to sister mary clair and tried to knock the strap out of her hand and bust the crucifix that hung around her neck. She went back into the cubicle then went away with little joey and nothing was ever said about that again. So you see Dave, you remember Joey's name to this day and so do I but for different reasons. Poor Joey, I didn't mean to frighten him but I didn't like having to walk to school with the girls smelling of pee, and as you know bathtime was only once a week. I'd be about 11yrs old then about 1955/6. P.S. Some of the names that havn't been mentioned above, Andrew Hankin, he took a lot of stick over his name, but never mind. A little lad called Adrian, who always used to sing a song called i'm a tin soldier. Two twins with fair hair and crossed eyes who were always getting battered. A fella called Sammy Rostrum. There was Nicky Cunningham, oh sorry, that's me! Anyway if I think of anymore names i'll get back to you. I know Brian will be reading this so hello Brian, I'll speak to you soon.

Replied: 19th Oct 2010 at 13:00

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Well that brought a smile to my face. I have always wondered what happened to Joseph. I hope he made it through life successfully. I haven't spoken to my own brother Brian about the site yet, who would have been about the same age as you and I think he will remember many more names than me.

I hope many more post on the Site as it is interesting to read others memories. My lads, who read them for the first time last week, are shall we say 'gob-smacked' on what went on in a Convent. I do have one photograph of me with tussled hair, in shorts aged about 7 or 8. I don't suppose many photo's survive, or were even taken in those days.

I'm looking forward to reading more from the 'kids' of yesteryear as it brings back memories for all of us.

Replied: 19th Oct 2010 at 22:32

Posted by: laura (195) 

there is a link further up on this page its Laura's Link
it has some pictures of the orphanage as it is now also some pictures taken off of wall photos of what the orphanage looked like then,
my mom remembers a few names , Harold Hibbs, Terrance Oriley, Clair Jordon, Mary Agnus Williams , Terry Oneil , & harold Wilson

Replied: 21st Oct 2010 at 04:28

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Thanks Laura. I did parooze them and remembered it all. In my minds eye I walked every inch of the place inside and out. I also remember the farm, the woods with the stream running through it, the corn field with the field mice nests on the stalks. Even down to the little shop by the school with its YZ chewing gum machine on the outside wall. Isn't memory amazing? I can remember in a flash Greenfields, but I have to think what I had for dinner last night.

Replied: 21st Oct 2010 at 16:07

Posted by: patricia4 (1)

I was wondering if anyone remembers a Pat Cunningham and her sister Valerie. We were in Greenfield House Billinge in the year,s 1946 - 1951.My e. mail is patlbrooks@hotmail.co.uk phone 01865 321159. My memories are the same as others on your website.Pretty bad to say the least. My three grandaughters came with me to visit the home in Octber 2010.The staff were so helpful and sympathetic.I would love to hear from anyone who was there at that time .I only remember the names of Margaretand Norah Flannigan.

Replied: 24th Oct 2010 at 16:30

Posted by: laura (195) 

Hi Patricia my mom was there the same time you where she was there from 1942- 1955 her name was kathleen Gizzie the nuns used to call her Mary Gizzie all the time though.
I will ask her if she remembers you

Replied: 24th Oct 2010 at 20:14

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Merry Christmas to one and all.

Replied: 14th Dec 2010 at 22:45

Posted by: frances (2831) 

DITTO - Happy Christmas Dave and lets hope 2011 is a good one

Replied: 15th Dec 2010 at 20:30

Posted by: laura (195) 

Merry Christmas everyone

Replied: 16th Dec 2010 at 02:20

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Dave, Nick & all you rich orphans Merry Christmas and hard luck to the peasants, as a peasant i am going to give my time to an orphanage but would need some help from you Dave as I would be prepared to dress up as Father Christmas if you would dress up as an elf and all you Lady Orphans could be fairys, as there would only be a need for one I suggest & advise the unsuccessful fairys to know your position & duties. To remind, ensure that all your menfolk have their Christmas dinner at a time of their choice & served hot & promptly, keep the booze flowing & make periodic enquiries as to their comfort, after their meal clear the table & quietly clean up making sure you dont disturb the Men folk should they be watching the T.V or drop of to sleep, wash up & if there is any food left that cant be saved for the Men folk to eat later feel free to have your Christmas dinner on the remains ensuring the men dont want it & the animals have been fed, then clean the kitchen & start preparing the men in your lifes tea, checkin throughout the day that they have had all their dues, Ladies no singing in the kitchen as this may disturb the Men folks sleep, Back to dressing up as Father Christmas & visiting an Orphanage & Dave being the only possible Elf I feel it might be to much for him barcoding all the presents so I will ask Nicky to be an Elf & give Dave a hand assuming Dave accepts the position it will also be the Elfs duty to ensure that when I am selling the Orphans their presents that they dont try to barter know doubt there will be some awkward Orphans (girls know doubt)
Dave, Nicky might be coming to England in January would you consider meeting up with him as you both could club together to buy my drinks for the afternoon.
If any of the fairys wish to make contact I will set up a premium phoneline all profits to be paid to me, if I am successful in selling all the orphans christmas presents, Dave you & Nick could possibly entitled to half pay each after all you'll only be Elfs I would have the larger part as Father Christmas

Yours kind hearted Brian

N.B The Elfs will have no share in the premium line you can't be greedy after all it is Christmas!!

Replied: 16th Dec 2010 at 13:04

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Methinks 'Kind Hearted Brian' is Gordon Brown or David Cameron out to line his own pocket. As a potential Elf, along with a yet to consent Nicky, we DEMAND fair pay for a fair days work or we will strike. Anyone crossing the picket-line will be trampled on by Rudolf and his ne'er-do well mates.

Replied: 18th Dec 2010 at 13:45

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Come on dave you know Rudolf will for a carrot setting the rate for the elf's you can't go on strike untill after CHRISTMAS then I will or may consider a pay rise but beening realistic I will give you time off instead or one days pay between the two elfs thank you for excepting the troublesome elf'e postion I take it that if Nick comes you will save your pay and top it up frome your pension to pay with Nick for my afternoon or night out with the both of you to save you some money I advise you drink halfs whilst I drink pints.to save you even more money it will cheaper if we meet in Wigan to save Nick and you having to pay my travel exspense I further advise that you tell Nick you will not except any foreign coins or notes it's hard work being A peasant having to remind you rich folk and looking after you
kind hearted Brian

Replied: 18th Dec 2010 at 18:06

Posted by: mswigan (inactive)

I attended Notre Dame Convent and Maria Molloy was in my class. I remember her red hair and she was such fun. What has she done sincel

Replied: 19th Dec 2010 at 00:10
Last edited by mswigan: 19th Dec 2010 at 11:50:04

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave
just to let you know that I have entered into the Christmas spirit A group of charity workers came to my door collecting for DOCTOR BARNARDOS CHILDRENs HOMES I gave them the Grandkids on the understanding that they buy all there orphanes present from ME and not ask for discount or credit

All heart Brian
Nb kept the grandsons of course and gave the girls peace on earth

Replied: 19th Dec 2010 at 12:51

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

mswigan....It is amazing how are minds wander to times gone by and to certain people who we brush past in our journey through life. You have occasional thoughts of Maria and I have Joseph. I alway think of the positivity of life and I talk myself into 'knowing' he did well in life, married with kids and all sad memories erased.

Replied: 19th Dec 2010 at 21:13

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Brian. If you can run and catch said Barnados workers, direct them my way as I have six g'kids they can have. Return date not necessary.

Replied: 19th Dec 2010 at 21:18

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave I remember Joseph and hope the same.I hope your g'kids are girls keep the lads and spend some time with them playing with there toys and let them have odd go now and again
considerate Brian

Replied: 19th Dec 2010 at 23:38

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi Brian & Dave
if anyone should play Father Christmas it should be me, lets face it, with a name like Nicholas, (forget the saint) and a white goatie i'm already half way there. Then again Brian, Claire showed me the photo of you, and I think with a tight squeeze you should be able to fit into his uniform better. Come to think of it with my size and shape I probably would make a better elf. Well Brian & Dave, you two don't know how lucky you are, with all that lovely snow. The nearest thing to snow here in Cyprus is the ice cubes in my brandy sour.
Merry Christmas to everone

Replied: 20th Dec 2010 at 13:53

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Nicolas. How lucky you are to be in Cyprus. I spent 6 months in Pergamos, 6 months in Episkopi and 2 years in Akrotiri.. plus when my son was posted there with the Army for 2 years, I had the cheek to have even more time there.
As for "all that lovely snow".. Bah humbug. Have a great time.

Replied: 20th Dec 2010 at 15:08

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Nick/Dave
Nick there is no doubt you should be an Elf you may recall the Good sisters in Greenfield used to call you a little imp & through natural progression look you have progressed into a natural Elf, you have got to give it to Claire her observations of my athletic physique is correct, I guess Claire would like to be the fairy but I will turn her down so she can follow her duties as noted & described in previous correspondence 16/12/10 to look after you. Remember you & Dave are only gettin one days pay between you & the day starts one minute before midnight 24/12/10 until one minute before before midnight 24/12/10 all presents must be sold by then any that are not will be deducted from the Elfs pay with top up from your pensions at the end of the day I will wish you both Merry Christmas but not a prosperous New Year because I will be paying for it next year. In the true spirit Merry Christmas everyone and those who dont work for me a prosperous New Year.

Brian

N.B Dave/Nick
Please bring substantial packed lunches that you can share with me!

Replied: 22nd Dec 2010 at 10:44

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Elf's your starting time is one minute after midnight 24/12/10 until one minute before mid night 24/12/10

Replied: 22nd Dec 2010 at 10:59

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

N.B Dave/Nick
Please bring substantial packed lunches that you can share with me!


Will reindeer sandwiches do?

Replied: 24th Dec 2010 at 11:47

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

HIdave
Deer Deer that's for after Christmas

Replied: 24th Dec 2010 at 12:22

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi, Brian/Dave
Those reindeer sandwiches will be good for my diet, and keep me elfy

Replied: 24th Dec 2010 at 14:56

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Oh Deer me!!...If sister Mary Clair could hear you now she would have a 'whip' around and make sure you're elffy. I hear she was thrown out of the SAS for cruelty.

Replied: 24th Dec 2010 at 23:48

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi All
Sorry to report that there were not enough presents to sell to all the Orphans & I could not for the life of me let any one down, So I leased all presents under a time share scheme, what a good orphan I turned out to be not like those other two elfish lads

Replied: 28th Dec 2010 at 17:19

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

WISHING ALL 'ORPHANS' OF GREENFIELDS ALL THE VERY BEST IN THE NEW YEAR. MAY WE ALL THINK OF HAPPY TIMES AND MAY WE HAVE MANY MORE

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE

Replied: 30th Dec 2010 at 23:47

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

HI Dave
Nicky is coming from Cyprus on the 26th would you like to meet up with us? also any Greenfielders who would like to meet with us would be welcome, If there is take up I'll post details.
Brian Smith.

Replied: 7th Jan 2011 at 10:03

Posted by: rythem (5)

Hi Brian, Nick and co. Johnny Kearns here. Good to here your all ok. It's been some time since we kneeled at the altar, Nick. You remember, I took your name at confirmation when Bishop Heenan asked me but you never took mine, as agreed. I remember that later we had a set to in the bathroom and I lost my front tooth. Oh well, kids will be kids. Yeas Brian, I rember us both having a trial with FC Liverpool. Pity we didn't meet the grade. Also, Frank blake is out there on the board. A great friend 'ole "Balony" was. I visited with him in his restaurant near Southport a long time ago and somehow we lost contact. Oh well, we're back now. Also on the topic of missing friends, who is the guy who claims he played with me in a couple of groups. I was with the Vacqueros with Lally Stott, Gary Roberts, Alan Liptrot and later with Johnny Wok and Mike "Mick" Gannon. OK, I was with other groups too but can't remember playing with the same guy twice. Maybe I'm going senile. Please confirm.

Johnny

Replied: 23rd Jan 2011 at 13:48

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi John
or should I say PJ [PROBY]good to hear from you it would be great if you could come back to the UK for a visit as Nicky is coming from the 26th to the 31 of Jan, if you can make it I can provide accommodation love to known Howe the rest of your family and yourself are doing, I am sure Nicky would love to see you as I would.
Brian

Replied: 23rd Jan 2011 at 22:27

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi John,
Great to hear from you. I've left you a messsage on your personal blog, also have a look at www.lankybeat.com From the lanky beats home page click on 'ads & wanted' page, where you will find someone called malc trying to get in touch with you.
The fella who said he played with you in a couple of bands goes by the name of 'kenee' and he has put comments on wiganworld but on a different discussion under the heading of 'local pop groups'.
Nick

Replied: 24th Jan 2011 at 07:26
Last edited by bscamp: 24th Jan 2011 at 13:01:30

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi John
the film you made and stared in Gonks go beat did Cliff Richard co star or was he just an extra I reckon with you being in the movie he must have been one of them I hope you are still at the top of your game so Ican sell all the other orphans your autograph don't worry about the gap Nicky made just put some spigy in the gap and smile
Brian

Replied: 25th Jan 2011 at 10:29

Posted by: kenee (2111)

Johnny - is that really you ?
It's Ken from Ashton, I played bass with Oggie mid sixties. You joined us in '66, you used to have us all in stitches. On my birthday you and Oggie tried to get me drunk (successfully). We did 'They're Coming to take Me Away haha' wearing white lab coats, with Dave in a safari suit and pith helmet!

I remember playing at the Green Dragon with you and Wokky, I was on double bass. I stayed with Oggie till '68. Sadly Oggie died last year.

We were playing at The Old Hall when you and Mick came to ask me to start a group with you and a keyboard player called Keith, he had a little white Fiat, Lally was involved too. We practiced (a lot of soul stuff)but when we were offered a German tour I pulled out, I'd just got a new joband I was in a 'serious' relationship.

I heard a lot of stories about that tour but I'd like to know anything you can remember of those times. In the early seventies I did a bit with Gary(Roberts)he was getting heavily into jazz, then I was in a resident band at the Imperial club, Kirkby for a few years.
Hope you are keeping well


Replied: 25th Jan 2011 at 12:31

Posted by: rythem (5)

Hi again Brian. No, Cliff Richards was not in the Movie. Keneth Connor and Terry Scott were. Two pretty famos comedians from that time. On another note, I forwarded Nick my telephone number here in Germany via e-mail and told him to share it with you. Give me a call sometime but before 25 Fenruary. My wife and I are off to the caribbean, Dominican Republic for four weeks. We have horses over there and spend quite a lot of time traveling over there. Keep the faith.

Johnny.

Replied: 25th Jan 2011 at 13:44

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi John
What a rotten life you seem to be having going all that way just to feed the horses I'm prepared to muck out if you take me with you,I like horses I modeled all my women on them IE with the strength of a shire horse the slender figure of a race horse and with the brains of a rocking no need to pay me just give me some sun block and a few glasses of rum every four hours
Brian

Replied: 25th Jan 2011 at 21:08

Posted by: rythem (5)

Johnny Kearns here. I noticed on the board some postings regarding the rest of our family. Yes I had two pther brothers, Peter and Thomas. Thommy was killed in a car accident when he was 19 years old along with his fiance. My sister Mary was also in the crash with my brother in law. They survived and are still around. My other two sisters, Maragaret and Norah are doing just fine.

On another note. This is for Carlos-b. I knew your father Frank Blake well. We were great friends. I remember you also. We visited with your father, Aurora your mother and grandmother several times in the restaurant near Southport on our trip from Germany. I have your e-mail and will wire you soon.

Also here's one for Ken from Ashton. Sure it's me. Get your e-mail to me and we'll talk.

Johnny.

Replied: 26th Jan 2011 at 14:27

Posted by: kenee (2111)


Johnny Johnny Johnny

Check your blog.



Brian & Nick, if you are in touch with JK, do me a favour and bring this to his notice.
Cheers

Replied: 30th Jan 2011 at 19:39

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Ken
I will email Nicky he has John's email add and phone number no doubt John will respond
Brian

Replied: 31st Jan 2011 at 12:02

Posted by: rythem (5)

Ken, No worries when I find time I'll e-mail you.

Johnny

Replied: 31st Jan 2011 at 14:17

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mary Maggie Frank
Nicky and I had a great time with you and your good husband Frank,thank you for which the way you received us it didn't take long to get us all chatting in good spirit, felt sorry for Frank but thank him for his patience as we all had our past to catch up on, wished all all your family were there maybe in the near future we can get together and you all can meet Maureen. Great family you've got John it would be fantastic if we could all get together with any one from Greenfield, if any one is interested let me know
Brian

Replied: 31st Jan 2011 at 17:41

Posted by: rythem (5)

OK Ken, you should have the e-mail, if my test was correct.

Johnny.

Replied: 1st Feb 2011 at 15:31

Posted by: kearns (10)

Hi I have just spotted a post from carole valade, I remember the family well. Rejanne was my age. Also the Taylor family, Jean, and Joan, and a younger sister. I was best friends with Joan and hope somehow that I can get in touch with her if anyone can help. A couple of weeks ago my sister Mary and I met up with Brian Smith and Nicky Cunningham. It was great talking about our time at Greenfield Convent. I am Margaret Kearns and I was there from 1954 to 1961. Lizzie Fagan was also a friend of mine and my sister Norah. Is there any info out there on anyone else. Many thanks again to Brian for the get together. He is now in contact with my brother John. Just to put the record straight Lulu was also in the film our John made called the Gonks go Beat. Love to all Greenfielders and get in touch anyone who remembers me.

Replied: 8th Feb 2011 at 13:58

Posted by: bscamp (25)

Hi Maggie,
We really did have a good time, thanks to brian. It was great to get together and maybe next time there will be more of us. I don't think we should leave it another 50 years though as it might be difficult to get in touch with anyone. Spoke to Johnny a couple of days ago, which was really good to catch up a bit with him and he sent me some photo's of him and his wife with their horses. Your sister Mary suprised me (in a good way)as she has really come out of her shell and is very talkative. Mind you I don't think I stopped talking all night either.
P.S. I enjoyed our singing on the bus on the way home.
Nick.

Replied: 9th Feb 2011 at 17:17
Last edited by bscamp: 9th Feb 2011 at 18:34:32

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Margaret you must have been there at the same time as my brother Brian and myself. I was there from 53?-58. Brian is 5yrs older than me and he would remember more names than me. He has just dipped his toe into the 21st Century and bought a computer for the first time, so once he gets the hang of switching it on I will get him on the Site.

Take care all you Greenfielders

Replied: 10th Feb 2011 at 05:59

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Maggie
you are right it was great looking back and having a very special night out with yourself and Mary,I am going into haspital for a miner op and will get in touch when Iam right with the hope of another good night out with you, maybe in Wigan if Frank and Mary and of course youself agree,
realy enjoyed our reunion the first of many I hope and an invatation to all Greenfielders and there friends should they wish to join us it is a very special bond we have and worth keeping
Brian

Replied: 28th Feb 2011 at 20:07

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

I hope your stay in hospital is fleeting Brian. You always know when you are on the road to recovery when you start complaining of lack of salt in the meals. I use the word 'meals' with caution

Replied: 2nd Mar 2011 at 16:59

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave
thanks for that,I was in Greenfield the same time as you as was Nicky.Pity you did not join up with us when Nicky was over you would have enjoyed it maybe next time in the near with the Kearns family they are still the nice people as they were in there youth respond if you are interested it would be another great meeting for you and partner to enjoy and anyone else who would care to join friend or Greenfielder I'm sure Nicky would make the effort and possibly his partner Claire equably A nice person
BRian

Replied: 10th Mar 2011 at 21:48

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Brian, I'm sure a re-union of Greenfielders would be fun. Even better if we could hire a 'charrabang' and go on a trip to Hoylake singing a few of the old kids songs like we did all them years ago.

PS. I hope you have returned to rude health.

Replied: 15th Mar 2011 at 17:12

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave
I do not want to live in the past or replicate it but I am a peoples person and very interested as to Howe fellow Greenfielders have faired in the course of life, and that they may get some pleasure in making contacts.I realise that this may not be in every ones interest of which I respect
Brian
ps thank you fore your good wishes

Replied: 16th Mar 2011 at 19:46

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Greenfields has gone a bit quiet, has anyone got any news...good or otherwise

Replied: 21st Apr 2011 at 00:02

Posted by: caroline c (6)

Hi have only just found this site and took about an hour workin out how to use it. My mum also went to Greenfield her name was Patsy Molloy (Maria and Brenda Molloy's sister).My mum remembers quite a few people on this site.She would love to get in touch with Sheila Ryan, John McConville Terry O'Reilly and others. Love to hear from anyone who knew my mum.

Replied: 28th Apr 2011 at 20:17

Posted by: mswigan (inactive)

Caroline I was in the same class at the Notre Dame Convent as Maria. I can see her now with her long red hair. I was sorry to learn through this thread that she had died. Best Wishes.

Replied: 28th Apr 2011 at 20:48

Posted by: laura (195) 

Caroline what year was your mom there ? I will ask my mom if she remembers her

Replied: 29th Apr 2011 at 00:39

Posted by: caroline c (6)

Hi Laura, Mum was there the same time as your mum was but my mum was a little younger than yours. My aunt Brenda remembers your mum better. I think my mum was one of the youngest to go into Greenfield from what she tells me. When I found this site had to take the laptop to mum's and let her read all of the things on the site,she had a good laugh, a few tears, but brought back a few memories and spent couple of hours telling me more about her time there. Sorry, Mum was there 45-55.

Best Wishes

Replied: 29th Apr 2011 at 12:28

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Caroline
I can't say I remember your Mum but I do remember your sister Maria very well & I can remember Alice Sutton she had a crush on John McConville your Mum might remember me Brian Smith or the Kearns family 3 girls & 2 boys, Mary Margaret John & Peter can't remember the other sister also Nicky Cunningham, Brenda your aunt did get in touch & I am waiting further correspondence from her. Nicky & Mary & Margaret & myself got together & had a Great night out & are in touch with each other. I visited Greenfields this p.m but did not go in the buildings looking around the grounds brought back memories, security approached me for identification when I informed him I was in Greenfield he was very helpful & gave me his name & Telephone number to arrange an internal visit, this may be of some interest to your mum, the boys & girls were kept seperate & got to know a few girls as your mum will remember Mother Gerard was very strict & did not allow the boys to talk to the girls. If your mum or yourself would like to visit Greenfield I will arrange this for you, if Brenda gets in touch please tell her I was asking about her & it would be nice to hear from her, I came to Greenfield in 1956 Nicky Cunningham was their a lot longer he goes under the name Bscamp he will know alot more who were their, I was very saddened to hear about your aunt maria sadly passing away as I often used to think of her even to this day.

Brian.

Replied: 29th Apr 2011 at 16:59

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Caroline
If your Mum wants to visit Greenfields or meet up with us in the future I will arrange transport with pleasure.
Brian

Replied: 29th Apr 2011 at 17:08

Posted by: mswigan (inactive)

Brian How have you turned out to be such a great guy after all that. It breaks my heart to think about all that. Do you have a family and how do you treasure them.

Replied: 29th Apr 2011 at 22:00

Posted by: laura (195) 

Caroline my mom was there the same time as your mom her and Terrance O'riley used to say they were going to get married they sent him to another orphanage in Liverpool I belive my mom and dad met up with him again before they moved to Canada.

Replied: 30th Apr 2011 at 04:42

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi mswigan
Yes and with all my heart

Replied: 1st May 2011 at 10:55

Posted by: caroline c (6)

Hi Laura
My Mum was talking about Terence the other day, I'm taking the laptop to my mums tomorrow so she can write somtething on here about her memories so have to practice typing today, because I willnot be able to type as quick as she talks

Replied: 2nd May 2011 at 15:41

Posted by: caroline c (6)

Hi All
Would anybody know if Terence O'Reilly is still around or John McConville, Sheila Ryan

Thanks

Replied: 2nd May 2011 at 15:48

Posted by: caroline c (6)

Hi all

As I previously mentioned this message is my mums,

Laura I remember Terence leaving the orphanage, could you ask your mum if she remembers going down the cellar to get the stores for cleaning, their was myself, Pat Callary, Sheila Ryan, Alice Roberts, Theresa Jennings, John McConville, Martin Clarke,Joey Melvin, Terence, Tony Murray. We used to have fun down there riding the tricycles.
Was your mum one of Maggies lot and did she work in the dining room.

PS Brian I would love to meet up with fellow Greenfielders and have a look at the place now. Would love to hear from you. I will remind Brenda to get in touch.

Anybody remember the teachers Liptrot, Beesley,Rigby, Topping, Alcroft, Miller.

I also remember the trips to Hoylake.

Replied: 3rd May 2011 at 13:09

Posted by: laura (195) 

I will ask my mom if she remembers any of that as she never mentioned it to me before I know she said when she would get in trouble she would have to clean the dining room. Shlila Ryan would stick up for my mom too. will talk to her later tonight and see what else she remembers or will talk about

Replied: 3rd May 2011 at 20:10

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Caroline/ Patsy

It will give me great pleasure in arranging a visit to greenfields, I am not mobile at the moment and will not be able to drive for the next six weeks due to an ankle operation and having to wear a surgical boot. I will get in touch when I am fully mobile.

Look forward to seeing you and I hope the visit will bring back some happy memories for you.

I was in Mr Beesley's class for two years. Polly Liptrot taught the infants and Mr Miller taught the second to top class, Teresa Jennings was my girlfriend after leaving Greenfield she lived with her aunt at Corperation St, Poolstock, Wigan. I believe she emigrated to Australia. I remember John Mcconville and Joey Melvin, reported to be the best looking lad at that time also going to Hoylake sleeping in the church hall and the good sisters sleeping on the stage.

Regards.

Brian.

Replied: 9th May 2011 at 09:41

Posted by: mveido (28)

hi brian you answed my meassage about eddie mc donald on the 1st june and i would like to no if you could tell me about a place it wos a special school in ulverston called stonecross it seems from nazareth house eddie wos sent there i cant seem to find any imformation about it any where i have looked on the message board and nobody has mentioned it regards maureen

Replied: 2nd Jun 2011 at 15:57

Posted by: mveido (28)

hi brian my previose message about eddie is no longer on the message board could you explaine to me why as i am new to computors i dont no if i have done something wrong its hard trying to learn new things like this when your geting on a bit sorry to be a pest regards maureen

Replied: 2nd Jun 2011 at 16:35

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Maureen
there is another thread of which you can click on to and your message is there if you go to the top you will see Jude178 next message under that is Danni22019 click on to GREENFIELD ORPHANAGE

Replied: 2nd Jun 2011 at 22:07

Posted by: mveido (28)

thanks brian i will try that regards maureen

Replied: 4th Jun 2011 at 18:34

Posted by: bscamp (25)

hi mveido
i left billinge and went to an halfway house. there were ten lads there between eleven and fifteen years of age. one of the lads there went to this special school in stoneycroft, its called stoneycroft childrens centre its still there, maybe your stonecross is stoneycroft, it as been over fifty years, its possible they could even help you or put you on the right track
regards nick

Replied: 25th Jul 2011 at 08:49

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi nick
thanks for the information iwill look it up sorry i havent replyed sooner it wos only today i wos made aware of you message as brian phoned to tell me as i have not been on line for quite a while so thanks agian i will let you know if i find out anything regards mo

Replied: 9th Sep 2011 at 21:01

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi Nick
sorry to say i have not been able to find any thing out
about stonecroft children centre do you remember the name off the half way house you went to i cant seem to get any futher with my search thanks for your help anyway
regards mo

Replied: 10th Sep 2011 at 16:58

Posted by: bscamp (25)

hi mveido
the halfway house address is 25 fairfield crescent, fairfield,liverpool 6. it was run by the catholic childrens protection society. i looked up stonycroft childrens centre on the internet its still there, i now beleave it is a school for children with learning difficulties.
nick

Replied: 25th Sep 2011 at 10:25

Posted by: mveido (28)

hi bscamp
thanks for the informationabout the half way house i am most greatfull regards mveido

Replied: 29th Sep 2011 at 14:53

Posted by: Hanschris (2)

Hi to everyone who contributed to this messageboard and my thanks to you all.
I've only recently found out that I spent my early years (From age 2 to 4) at Greenfield in the early fifties. Your comments have given me a feel for the place. Some of the criticisms make me feel perhaps fortunate that, being so young during my stay, my memories are a bit limited. My name during my residency at the orphanage was Hans Dagphinn Christianssen and I was fostered out at age 4 to a lovely Wigan family.
I visited the orphanage yesterday (Nugent House) with my wife and instantly recognised the large gates and wall which seemed even larger when I was a child.
I wonder if two of my older half sisters, Maureen and Jean Davidson also stayed at this orphanage. We were all abandoned,in Liverpool, by our mother. Anyway thanks to you all for filling in a few blanks in my past and best wishes to you all.

Replied: 21st Nov 2011 at 12:07

Posted by: frances (2831) 

Welcome to Wigan World Hanschris

Replied: 21st Nov 2011 at 19:09

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Margaret/Mary/Frank
Sorry for delay in responding, Nicky is getting married in the near future Claire his bride to be is coming over from Cyprus 3.12.11 & Nicky is coming sometime in January hopefully for another great night out with yourselfs, if you & mary & Frank would like to meet up with us on wednesday 7.12.11 as we are going to a chinese buffet & it goes without saying you are welcome as any Greenfielders would be, hopefully Brenda, Caroline & patsy Malloy will read the above & join us, I would willingly arrange transport & cater for the afternoon with pleasure, if you can't make it on weds 7.12.11 margaret make sure you & the rest of the Kearns family keep a space in your diary for when Nick comes over in January, such a good looking lad still pulling the dolly birds, if anyone is interested please respond ASAP.
Brian

Replied: 1st Dec 2011 at 11:12

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Nicky
A reminder for Claire as to her duties
N.B Claire
Ensure Nick has adequate clothing, washed & ironed to cover your absence, equally ensure you have cooked & freezed enough meals & snacks to last until your return so as not to cause any inconvenience to Nicky also alert all his boozing friends to call daily & take Nicky out.
Please make sure the 40 acres has been cultivated & all the animals have enough food to last them until you return
P.S Nick, youve got to be a bit considerate after all she does not have that Greenfield training you must help by not changing your clothes more than twice a day & placing all dirty clothes in the linen basket for Claire on her return to wash equally you must neatly stack all dirty dishes & cutlery in the sink ensuring allthough this is really Claires job theres plenty of washing up liquid, don't worry to much about tidying the house as Claire will lovingly clean it on her return, let Claire have half hour to an hour sleep when she arrives home before she cleans the animals out & checking that all crops have not suffered due to her absence.
Brian

Replied: 1st Dec 2011 at 11:31

Posted by: marybmather (5)

Hi Brian, thanks for the invite to meet your wife an Nickys partner Claire. We except with thanks. I spoke to Maggy an she says she will be able to come. Looking forward already to seeing you again. All the best Mary x.

Replied: 3rd Dec 2011 at 14:04

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Maggie
Sorry to hear of your partner not being so good, Claire would of liked to have met you all but nevertheless she enjoyed the Chinese buffet as i'm sure you all would have, Maggie I wish your partner a speedy recovery to good health & all the Kearns family a very happy & merry christmas & a fulfilled New year to you all & of course all Greenfielders & all our school friends from St.Marys Birchley from the late 50's early 60's who we all got on well with, like to hear from the Malloys & anyone from that era from Greenfields.
Brian.

Replied: 8th Dec 2011 at 11:21

Posted by: mveido (28)

HI BRIAN
sorry i havent been in touch there has been a lot going on here with our julie and jimmys sister any way i just wanted to wish you and maureen a very happy christmas and new year to you both and all your boys as well will be in touch soon
regards maureen

Replied: 16th Dec 2011 at 16:16

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mo
I hope things are well, thankyou for your greetings & wish your good self & family all the best for Christmas & a happy & peaceful New Year, as you may have read my good friend Nicky is coming over from Cyprus in January, if you would like to meet up with us you would be welcome as Nicky maybe able to shed some more light on your brother, really good to hear from you Mo, please take care & keep well.
Brian/Mo.

Replied: 19th Dec 2011 at 09:37

Posted by: bscamp (25)

merry christmas everybody
happy new year. stay healthy

nick

Replied: 29th Dec 2011 at 08:52

Posted by: carlo-b (3)

Brian, can you send me your phone contact /skypename details so i can pass them on to my dad, francis blake? thanks! carlos

Replied: 20th Jan 2012 at 19:06

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Carlos
I am just soughting out skype having problems with camera would love to hear from your dad as we were very good friends he may remember going to the movies together to see dracula with a smile on his face when I have soughted skype out I will post details with pleasure for your dad.Nicky Ccnningham is staying with me until Monday Ilive in Wigan if your dad lives within distance it would be great if he could meet up with us my email add is briansmith176@yahoo.co.uk if you or dad contact me I will mail back my phone number or for you to mail yours and his and I will make contact.
Hope your dad is keeping good and is still a good trumpet-cornet player also good on the mouth organ,get back as soon as you can Carlos
Brian

Replied: 21st Jan 2012 at 15:12

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi all Greenfielders
I would like to report that there are some Greenfielders in touch with each other and may meet up in the near future they are as follows Francois Blake,the Kearns family,Nicky Cunningham,and Brian Smith.should they meet up any Greenfielder would be made wellcome just get in touch or if you know any Greenfielder please inform them it may not be posible in some cases so verbal contact woul be wellcome my email ad is briansmith176@yahoo.co.uk
it

Replied: 22nd Jan 2012 at 15:30

Posted by: kearns (10)

Hi Brian, our John said to tell you a big thank you for getting him in touch with Francis Blake. He said he had a good old chin wag with him and also his son Carlos has been able to get in touch with his dad. You are brilliant at getting people in touch, especially families. Many thanks again Brian from our John.

Replied: 2nd Feb 2012 at 12:21

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Maggie
good to hear from you' Fran Blake is coming to Wigam somtime in the year maybe we could all meet up and let our hair down whilst I still have a little hope your good man is OK you have my email add send your Tel
Brian

Replied: 6th Feb 2012 at 19:37

Posted by: kearns (10)

Hi Brian, I do not have your email address or Tel No. My email address is alan-pinder@sky.com Alan is doing fine now he is back sailing and playing babmington so all is well. Hope you are all keeping in good health. Mag

Replied: 26th Feb 2012 at 13:29

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi all Greenfielders
Fran Blake is in touch and is coming to Wigan on the 28 of May for A couple of days and possibly Nicky Cunningham and the Kearns family if there are any other Greenfielders interested you would welcome are group is slowly getting larger I am going to try arrange A visit to the convent, any interested parties please reply especially the Molloy family.

Replied: 20th Mar 2012 at 17:59

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi All greenfielders
does any one know were Pady Macnulty is as i would like to get in touch with him as we were realy good friends and he helped me in my time of need when Ileft Greenfield great guy
Brian Smith

Replied: 22nd Mar 2012 at 13:16

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

HiMo
I have lost your phone number as you have mine please ring regarding your brother Eddie
Bri/Mo





Replied: 20th May 2012 at 19:50

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi All
Francois Blake & I visited Maureen Sulnam, very nice lady, visited Nazareth House in order to gain information ofher Brother EDDIE unfortunately Nazareth House has long since gone, nevertheless we did speak to the local Priest who suggested we contacted Nazareth House Crosby they may be able to help as they are the same religious order, even though the day was not very fruitful in gaining information it was great to meet Maureen & speaking for myself I enjoyed the day & hope that this is the start of a friendship between our families.
On the 29th Francois & I visited Greenfields & Louise an extremely nice & lovely lady gave up her time to escort us around, both of us really enjoyed louises company & are very grateful in which the way she recieved us, it did not take long for Francois to get chatting to all the female staff, still such a good looking lad. Memories just flooded back & the feel good factor kicked in, to all you Greenfielders I recommend a visit whether your memories are good or bad Francois & mine are certainly good & we have the highest respect & regard for Sister Mary Clare & just to meet the lovely Louise don't take Francois as you will not get a look in with the female staff, still very envious wish I could hate him, I have informed all my female staff to stop talking about how nice he is or I will domy Alan Sugar Impression'Youre Fired'. Just had a call from Margaret Kearns to meet up with Francois this evening both looking forward to the get together after visiting St.Edwards
Brian/Francois.

Replied: 30th May 2012 at 14:15

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Apologies Maureen

made a mistake with your surname, Maureen Mveido not Maureen Sulman

Brian/Francois

Replied: 30th May 2012 at 19:06

Posted by: mveido (28)

HI Brian
Thanks for takeing me to meet your wonderful family i had a lovely day out seeing the places my brother would have been at.
Ienjoyed meeting francois and talking about edward you gave me piece of mind about the home he wos in was inwas not as bad as i thought .
and iam so glad to have made some new friends hope you all have a good time with the kearns family to night hope to hear from you soon .
maureen

Replied: 30th May 2012 at 20:46

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mo Mveido
Francois had a very good reception from Jean duffy of St.Edwards & Francois was able to look at the register & gain relevant knowledge to his past, we also were able to look at large amount of photographs of which Francois was able to identify himself & also others we both know, it did not take long for Francois to get chatting to Jean engaging in goood conversation as usual, Jean reassured us if we needed anymore information that she may have access to she would be very helpful. Francois & I enjoyed our visit to the EDDIES as it brought back many good memories for Francois & good thoughts of my brother John who sadly has passed away, these memories were also recollected by Francois as all three of us were in the famous prize band.
Yes mo, Francois & I did have a Good time with Mary & Margaret & wished you were with us as we met up & went to a local pub by Greenfield it did not take long for us all to get into conversation, Mary & Margaret are very happy & joyful personalities it did not take long before we all entered into laughter & good spirit, even though they have developed into very strong and happy personalities all there memories were not happy in Greenfield which was sad to hear, their stay in Greenfield was tainted by outside personal event & them not really wanting to be there, their memories did not take away the great evening we had together & look forward to more in the future with the hope that more Greenfielders & you Mo will join in & enjoy good company.
Francois has left for his home in Devon it was sad to part company but at least whilst he is not around I may get some female attention as due to his very good looks, physique & excellent persona he attracted all the attention & fuss, couldn't you just hate him.
Brian

Replied: 31st May 2012 at 12:30

Posted by: mveido (28)

HI BRIAN
Well i am so glad to hear francois found out the information he wos looking for i wonder if edward went there
Its good you have happy memories of your time there
mary and margaret had the chance to met francois and you all had a good reunion i would have like to have been there it sounds like you had some fun
get away with you
you get plenty of attention of your maureen and plenty of others if the truth wos known you have a fab personality
so thats worth its weight in gold
take care give my regards to mo and the family
maureen











Replied: 31st May 2012 at 19:31

Posted by: kearns (10)

Hi Brian, just seen your post about us meeting up with your Maureen and Frankie Blake. Yes we enjoyed sharing memories of our time there and meeting your wife who is a lovely person and also Frankie. Mary me and my sister Norah will go to the convent to relive the memories and have a chat with the nice lady who showed you round. Hope to see you all again.
Margaret

Replied: 12th Jun 2012 at 19:49

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mveido
Well Mo after meeting Francois you refer to my personality I have to except even you think he is better looking whilst I have the personality shame on you Mo allthough you are not on your own Margret Kearns is of the same opinion stating quasimodo also had a good personality!! I guess its the Bells!! Take care Mo look forward to seeing you in the future.
Bri/Mo

Replied: 14th Jun 2012 at 14:51

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mo
Ido mean Bells whiskey as I am deaf enough!!!amongst other things see you soon Mo take care
Bri/Mo

Replied: 15th Jun 2012 at 10:43

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mveido
Like you was happy to see Francois, very nice person & Brian is not the ugliest man in this world he just looks like him (alot!!) Maureen & I enjoyed meeting you, don't worry about Brian as we keep him in & he is only allowed to go out in the dark! Brians starting to crack the whip forcing me back to work I'll have to go, thankyou for taking him out giving us some respite from him, look forward to seeing you in the future & you to Francois.
Mo/Donna

Replied: 15th Jun 2012 at 10:59

Posted by: mveido (28)

HI Mo /Donna
well its lovely to hear from you and dont let brian bully you. mo /donna there are two against one ha ha.
you are cruel hes not a bad looking man and he has a lovely personalality .
I enjoyed our day out it wos lovely to meet all the family
and francois .
And seeing the places my brother may have been i hope we will meet again best wishes to all Mo.veido

Replied: 16th Jun 2012 at 19:05

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Nice to see the chatter is still going on and some have met up after all the past years...fantastic.

Replied: 29th Jun 2012 at 15:12

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave
were do you live as you would be wellcome to meet up with us next time we meet if you live close by.Hi Mo will be in touch soon and look forward to our next meet,Dave you would enjoy Mo,Francois,and of course the Kearns family,all very good company
Bri/Mo

Replied: 30th Jun 2012 at 12:32

Posted by: kearns (10)

Hi to Brian Francois and all Greenfielders. Brian shame on you I did not liken you to Quasimodo, quite the reverse. More like long haired lover from Liverpool. Hope you and Mo keeping well and everyone else too. Keep blogging. Maggie

Replied: 2nd Jul 2012 at 20:12

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Brian, thanks for the invite. I live in (not so sunny) Cheshire these days and if the old ticker keeps going I would love to visit at some time. Many thanks.

Replied: 3rd Jul 2012 at 12:22

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Maggie
you must remember saying Francois was better looking than me shame on you Maggie as Francois is now A southener you should favour us northen lads and forget that frogy Francois even though he has turned out to be A PRINCE looking forward to meeting up again and introducing you to if she is available Mo.veido give my regards to Mary and your John the good news Francoisis going to visit John in Germany that will be fantastic as he will be out of the country GREAT!!!!Ihave some snails left over from his visit if your John wants them if not you and Mary can have them as we are not keen on them don't put to much salt on them as that makes them curl up being greenfield girls you will know what to do with them no need to tell me I all ready know I BEST say helo to Francois or he will think Iam envious take care Mag and you Mary and Mo.veido no doubt Francois hopping around aftewr all he is a frog from France
Bri/MO





















Replied: 3rd Jul 2012 at 12:27

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave
apologies for not getting back will let you know next time we are going to meet up.Dave were you in greenfield in 1948 reason I ask an ex greenfielder has been in touch and would like their memorie joging look forward to meeting you and I am sure you will enjoy the Kearns family as I think you remember Margret we realy do have A good time I'm sure Francois and others will agree I am of course including you MoMveido, Dave keep that heart ticking thats an order
Bri/mo

Replied: 11th Jul 2012 at 16:43

Posted by: dave lukins (26)

Brian, I wasn't there in 48 more like 52-3 but my older brother(Brian) may well have been there at that time I will have to ask him to confirm. I'm sure I will have a good time with a meet up and after our short hol's must try and give you a period when that could happen. I am looking forward to it.

Replied: 16th Jul 2012 at 17:01

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Aqui aqui
I hope you are in good health, Whilst passing through Birchley I had the good fortune to bump into Anne Atherton it was great we reminissed a little & she remembers Joe Smith as well as the Brian Smith we both know, sadly Joe has passed on he really was a great guy & the world is worse off at our loss, Anne would like to join us next time us Greenfielders meet up, you would be welcome as well as any other Greenfielder or other pupils of St.Marys as we all really got on well together, Anne is in touch with quite a few of the girls or should I say Ladies, to this day
Take care
Brian.

Replied: 7th Aug 2012 at 17:45

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi all
hope you are all well I have not had time to post with one thing or anotherand would like to wish you A very merry Christmas and good health in the forthcoming year
Bian

Replied: 8th Dec 2012 at 12:11

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi Brian&Mo /donna and all your family
Wishing you all a very happy christmas and new year
god bless keep you all safe and well

Replied: 8th Dec 2012 at 20:04

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi Francoisis
Wishing you and your family a very happy christmas
and new year all the best mo ceido

Replied: 8th Dec 2012 at 20:08

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mo
Good to hear from you hope you are keeping well, Francois will be spending Christmas in america, you may read of, I bumped into a school friend Ann Atherton, it was great to meet her, told her that we have been getting together & she would like to join in next time we all meet up. Mo & Donna send their regards, I look forward to the next meet which will be in the New Year when Francois returns from the States, if any Greenfielder or ex St.Marys Birchley would like to join in they would be welcome, any interested parties can contact me on briansmith176@yahoo.co.uk all lower case, that includes you Dave Lukins & the Moloys & usual crowd.
Brian

Replied: 13th Dec 2012 at 17:27

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi Brian
Well its good to hear from you andto know your all well
It would to meet up again i will give you a ring in the new year.
So for now ill wish you all a very happy new year give my regards to all the family m veido

Replied: 28th Dec 2012 at 14:44

Posted by: GrahamK (444)

As has been posted Greenfield House was the orphanage and later used for boys who had been in trouble with the Police. Now known as Nugent House School part of Nugent Care Society working with Boys.

Replied: 12th Jan 2013 at 19:37

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Mveido & Dave Lukin
An ex greenfielder has been in touch and as I have not asked for his permission to give his name I don't feel I can mention it, what I can do Dave and Mo is furnish you with some information Dave he was and is your brothers friend he he recalls last seeing your brother Brian in L/pool town centre it would be good for your Brian to get in touch with him they will have lots to talk about. Mo this Greenfielder was in Nazareth House Formby until he was 4, don't think he can remember to much nevertheless it might be interesting for you to get in touch I asked him for permission to give you his contact details & he has agreed, give me a call, It would be fantastic if more Greenfielders could keep in touch.
Brian.

Replied: 11th Feb 2013 at 09:46

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Hi Dave

I have spoken to your brian friend his name is John Obrian he lives in L/pool you have got my Email add get in touch for details
Brian

Replied: 13th Feb 2013 at 11:02

Posted by: mveido (28)

Hi Brian
hope you are all keeping well i have only just read your message i will ring you soon it would be nice if he had any information about edward but being so young he may not unless they where around the same age when they where there but it would be nice to message him and find out well take care keep you all safe and well will ring you soon MO

Replied: 23rd Mar 2013 at 15:54

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

happy new year to all Francois Blake may be coming in the near future and would like to get together again look forward to seeing Mary Kearns and all have had contact from some school friends who would like to join us not had much time to myself through out 2013 but looking to aless hectic 2014 year and spend more time with friends

brian

Replied: 2nd Jan 2014 at 13:54

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

I have been contacted by Peter Greer he and his brother attended St Marys school from 1950-1953 and was in mr Millers class. Does anyone remember him or his brother I am sure Peter would like to hear from you ={:t}

Replied: 31st Mar 2016 at 22:19

Posted by: briansmith176 (92)

Peter Greer and his brother Tony was at St Marys school Birchley Billinge near Wigan from 1950-1953

Replied: 2nd Apr 2016 at 10:16

Posted by: dawbersandra (15)

Hello
I am trying to find any info for a friend. Her mum was in Greenfields in the 50,s to 60,s with her brothers.Her name was Kathleen Halliwell, not yet sure of all her brothers, there were a few. She recalls going to a nearby school ran by the nuns also.Her family were there for a few years before returning to their parents. I also heard they were named the brown eyed family in Wigan by the local press.Any info would be greatly appreciated.Kath is now in her 70,s.

Replied: 22nd Jan 2017 at 11:11

Posted by: bryn156 (193)

As regards to Greenfields in the 50s I had a brief association with one of the girls, her name was Carmel Healey or Healy. Often wondered if she ever survived.

Replied: 29th Jan 2017 at 15:37

Posted by: kelly2369 (3)

I was placed in Greenfields Orphanage by my mother in 1943 aged 19 months and left in December 1947. Could anybody assist me in finding out which Order of Nuns where responsible for those of us who were in their care. Many thanks.

Replied: 22nd May 2020 at 17:48

Posted by: mrs m (289)

kelly2369, Greenfields Orphanage was also known as Out Lady's Home. Was run by Sisters of Charity of St. Paul the Apostle. Don't know how to post a link, but there is a little info.

http://www.childrenshomes.org.uk/BillingeGreenfield/

Replied: 24th May 2020 at 19:38
Last edited by mrs m: 24th May 2020 at 19:58:20

Posted by: kelly2369 (3)

mrs m , many thanks. I will track them down & write to their Mother Superior.

Replied: 25th May 2020 at 20:09

Posted by: kelly2369 (3)

BSCamp (25) Nick, I wonder if you could help me? I am having problems obtaining records appertaining to myself, regarding my stay at Greenfields Orphanage, Billinge, where I was placed in April 1943 (aged 19 months) and then transferred to St Gabriel’s Convent, Knolle Park, Liverpool in 1948. I have been in touch with the Order of Sisters who ran Greenfields, who inform me all records were sent to the Archdiocese of Liverpool. Nugent Care, who look after such matters for the Archdiocese, had already written to me, stating that the Sisters who ran Greenfields had all the records. I think I’m on a wild goose chase!!! I see in one of your posts above you mentioned you had to get a court order to get some records. Any help you can give me would be much appreciated. Many thanks

Replied: 23rd Jun 2020 at 20:52

Posted by: joecusack (1)

Hi, I’m a writer and have written about Greenfield House orphanage in Billinge.

I am currently trying contact people who were at this place who are willing to speak to me about their experiences,

Please contact me at any time at j.cusack@focusfeatures.co.uk

Thanks

Joe Cusack

Replied: 11th Feb 2021 at 14:11

 

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