Hilary Hughes wrote to tell us that ...
"My great grandfather, George Henry Hughes, had a store in Oldham (Hughes Cycle Stores - Agent, Maker & Repairer). He apparently invented folding handle bars and belonged to Werneth Cycling Club."
Hilary adds that, she ..."would be very interested to hear of any comments, information, or light that anyone may be able shed on my great grandfather and his business."
If anyone can help, then please email us using the email address on the home page and we will pass it on to Hilary.
On the 1881 census George Henry and Martha, his wife, were living in Altrincham, Cheshire, with their two young children, Annie and Eva. George Henry is recorded as a 'Blacksmith'.
We can catch up with 44 year old George Henry on the 1901 census with his wife Martha (age 45) and children, Eva (20), Harry (14) and Alice (5).
George Henry is recorded as having been born in Liverpool, Martha and Eva in Altrincham and the two younger children in Oldham.
They were living at 184, Manchester Road, Oldham. George Henry is a 'cycle maker' on 'his own account'.
When we come to the 1911 census, the family is still living at 184, Manchester Road but Martha is now widowed and recorded as, 'Shopkeeper (Cycles & Phonographs) on 'her own account' and 'at home'.
There is a death registered in Oldham, for a 'George Henry Hughes', in 1906, when he would have been 49 years old.
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