Thomas Dudman

Thomas Dudman stood as the steadfast partner of Emma Hobbs; forming the cornerstone of a vibrant family dynamic. Together, they endured the joys and challenges of life's journey. In their embrace, they found the privilege of parenthood, and welcomed two daughters named Mabel and Annie into their lives.

## Biography

Thomas Dudman's origin can be traced back to the picturesque village of West Overton, nestled west of Marlborough. In the 1890s, he embarked on a new chapter, making a significant move to Somerset and finding a home in the charming village of Kilmersdon. It was during this time that fate introduced him to Martha Hobbs, a widowed woman whose company he shared as a resident of the village.

According to the 1891 Census, Thomas resided with Martha, forming a connection that would later intertwine their lives even more profoundly. It was in the warmth of this companionship that he discovered love with Martha's granddaughter, Emma. Their affection flourished, culminating in their union as man and wife in the year 1898, solemnising their vows in the idyllic setting of Clutton.

The early 1900s saw Thomas and Emma begin their journey as parents, joyfully welcoming their firstborn, Mabel, into the world. They established their abode on Bowden Hill in Chilcompton, as documented in the 1901 Census. During this period, Thomas continued to pursue his occupation as a coal miner, a prevalent and widely chosen profession of the time.

By the time of the 1911 Census, Thomas, Emma, Mabel, and their second child, Annie, found their dwelling at 19 Court-Operative Terrace in Haydon. Thomas's occupation had evolved, now identified as a "Coal miner - hitcher," showcasing his adaptability in the mining industry.

The 1921 Census captured the family's residence at 6 Coop Terrace in Kilmersdon, where Thomas, Emma, Mabel, and Annie built their lives together. Thomas's occupation was recorded as a "Coal Hitcher Below Ground," representing his expertise and dedication in his craft. However, unfortunate circumstances struck when the Writhlington Colliery Co, his employer, experienced a strike, leaving Thomas temporarily out of work.

Regrettably, the 1931 Census records were lost in a fire during the tumultuous years of the Second World War, leaving a void in the knowledge of Thomas and Emma's whereabouts during that specific period. Nevertheless, they found solace alongside Mabel and her husband Stanley. Their shared abode stood proudly at 88 Kilmersdon Road, epitomising the enduring strength of family bonds.

On the 6th of August 1936, Thomas was left a widower as his beloved wife, Emma, passed away. Alongside their family, Thomas tenderly laid Emma to rest in the serene grounds of St Paul and St Peter's Church in Kilmersdon. Less than two years later, on the 10th of May 1938, Thomas followed in Emma's footsteps as he departed from the realms of the living. In a poignant reunion, Thomas was laid to rest in the same grave as Emma, their earthly journey reaching its final destination. Their shared resting place became a testament to the enduring bond that transcended even the boundaries of mortality, forever united in the embrace of the afterlife.

## External links

Thomas Dudman at Lasbury (Note: The names of Thomas Dudman's parents have not been included due to uncertainty regarding their accuracy.)