I am currently researching the history and occupants of Heathfield House, Bitterne (now replaced by Homepoint House, Mersham Gardens), one of whom between c.1921 and c.1935 was Henry (‘Harry’) Joseph Beazley, married to May Annie Beazley, nee Whale.

All the local histories say Henry died c.1931, but the only Henry J. Beazley death I’ve found is 1942, registered to the New Forest, and the age (62) matches.

May A. Beazley may have died in 1959.

In 1901 they are living off the Millbrook Road and his profession is given as “cycle manufacturer”, both aged 21, with two young children, Henry George (1899-1959) and Kimberley (‘Kim’) Frank (1900-?).

By 1911 they are still living Millbrook Road, but Henry is now “retired cycle-maker”, they are 31, and have three more children: Risdon Archibald (1903-?), Jasper Gilbert (1905-1953), and Olive May (1906-?1969, possible married name Harrold). By 1921 they were living at Heathfield, a large country house, possibly running it as a hotel.

Beyond the BMD dates I would like, if possible, to fill in more detail of Henry, his background and family, their time at Heathfield, why they sold up and moved.

All of his children were married in the 1920s, and it is possible there are (now elderly) descendants who might recognise their ancestors Henry and May, or the five children as great-grandparents or grandparents.

If so, I would be most grateful if you contact me at garth@groombridge2010.co.uk. It would be nice to discover more detail about Heathfield in the period from the 1910s to late 30s.

My thanks in anticipation. All information will be fully acknowledged.

Garth Groombridge

Southampton