Genealogy Chat

Not very good at London layout. Only details so far are born Edwards Street, London, but always under the impression that Grandad was born within the sound of Bow Bells. HELP PLEASE, just what area of London does this cover, many thanks in advance. Joan

Joan I understand that the true Cockney should be born within the sound of the bells of St Mary Le Bow, which is just behind Cheapside in the City of London. There is no sign of an Edwards Street near there though, although with all the development, it could have disappeared. Hope that helps.

There is or was an Edwards St. off the Barking Road in Canning Town. E16. - my streetfinder is about 25yrs old. That would make him an Eastender!

But not a Cockney!!

Had to nip off to do hubbies lunch! He comes from Poplar - very near to Bow in the East End. Anyone not from London, hearing his accent thinks he's a cockney. Maybe someone confused Bow with Bow bells?

many thanks , it's a bit more clear now. Grandad died in 1976 so its a long while back (not in family history terms i know, but i was only just out of school then). Hailing from Yorkshire, London always seems miles away, and you never know just how true the tales you're told really are(or not).

Doesnt seem to cover any particular area Joan. I asked Jeeves and got heaps of information,Even a Cockney Catholic Bible. But no boundaries. Bill

Could it have been Edwin Street in Bethnal Green. Would that make him a cockney? Gary

Anyone born within the sound of Bow Bells is a true cockney. How far that is depends on how good your ears are. The Bow Bells are in Cheapside, in the City. So most people born in the east end of London would called themselves cockneys.

Joan There was an Edward Street in Shoreditch/Hoxton area of London.I believe it is now called Micawber Street just off City Road.With a bit of luck and a Southerly wind I reckon you could have heard Bow Bells from there. Terry Barker