Introduction

After a childhood spent at Hardington, Frank Purchase dabbled with dairy work before taking a job as a groom and gardener at Preston Plucknett. He later worked as a van driver in Yeovil, where he lived until his death in about 1952.

Early life at Hardington

Frank was born on 25 March 1874 at his parents’ home in Pen Lane, Hardington.[1] He was the third child of William and Elizabeth Purchase. His father was a farm labourer.

In April 1891, Frank and his fellow dairy worker, William Bishop, lodged at Hill Dairy House, the home of Francis Meech.

On 1 September 1893, Frank advertised in the Western Gazette to find a job in a dairy “to assist in best cheese making,” listing his address as “Penn Lane, Hardington.”[2]

Marriage

In 1896, Frank married Louisa Newman in the Yeovil registration district. Louisa came from Devizes.

Preston Plucknett

They established their home at Preston Plucknett, where they lived until about 1910. In March 1901, Frank worked as a groom and gardener.

Yeovil

In about 1910, Frank and his family moved to 45 Wellington Street. He worked for many years as a van driver for Trask & Sons, a mineral water manufacturer.

By September 1939, Frank had taken on the role of Night Watchman.

Death

Frank died in 1952, aged 77, and Louisa died in 1962, aged 87.

Children

Frank and Louisa had two sons and six daughters.

References

[1] RG13, piece 2300, folio 76, page 9; Civil Registration Birth Index; 1939 Register.

[2] Western Gazette, 1 September 1893, p.4.