SAMUEL BIDDIS

Samuel Biddis was born in 1821 to James and Lucy (nee Carter). He had two sons George Adler (1850-1891) and Henry Herbert (1855-1941). He also had three daughters Alice Margaret (18484935), Ellen Lucy (1853- ) and Frederica Emma (1854-1861).

He married Caroline Amelia Adler (1822 —1885) in Lambeth June 1846.

On 1861 census he is described as a painter and decorator employing five men and was living at 58 Northbrook Street next to the Monument Inn, the site of today's Methodist Church. His sister-in-law, Margaret Jane Adler (1812-1868) was living with the family

By 1871 he had moved next to the Jack Hotel (M&S now) — 20 Northbrook St.. He is described as a plumber and master decorator. His son George is a plumber and decorator apprentice and Henry Herbert is on trial as an engineering apprentice at Plenty's Eagle Works. He appears to have been an active and respected member of the community decorating halls for festive occasions and hanging pictures for viewing. He was also an artist in his own right. He died in 1877.

His wife Caroline took over the business with their son George, Henry Herbert also joined the business. On George's death the business was sold to Cooke Bros.

See mentions in the local press, Caroline Biddis (probate), also obituary for Henry Herbert Biddis and for Harry Brice Biddis, HHB's son killed in WW1 Grave reference LN (A) 22 — Mrs P's book p to. References NWN, Ancestry, findmypast, Mrs Pattison's book, westberkshirewarmemorials web site (Harry Brice Biddis — grandson)

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