Harrington

Nicholas Williamson married Mary Lowery and together they had 13 children. by this time England was in the middle of the Industial Revolution. While Cumberland had been mostly an agricultural county the demand for coal from the coal fields there had led to an extensive development of the coal mining industry. There were many pits in the area several in and around Harrington. This led to the expansion of Harrington Harbour to ship the coal to Ireland and other destinations. A thriving shipbuilding industry developed that included Sail makers, and a large Ropery. Harrington Ships voyaged all over the world many meeting their fate in far away places. The Census Record show that many of Nicholas Williamson's decendents became Mariners, Ship Builders and part owners, Rope Makers as well as Blacksmiths. Lets not forget one or two opted for the Hospitality Business by running the local Pubs. The above pictures I hope will paint a little picture of what Harrington must have been like. My grandmother Eliza Mary Williamson is buried in St Mary's churchyard. Some of my Williamsons lived on Shore Hill. I like to think some are in the school pictures. Mostly I put those on there because I loved them. I know they helped buld those lovely ships. if you would like to see more pictures of Harrington go to http://www.harringtonhistorygroup.co.uk/ The Postcard picture of Church Road by Irving Graham shows my Great Grandfather John Williamson holding the hand of my Grandmother Eliza Mary. Looks like they had been shopping for a Fish Dinner. I first saw this picture when a Williamson decendent in Australia sent it to me. They did not know who they were. Hope my family members enjoy these posts.