|
Welcome to the current online representation of the Openshaw Pedigree. This genealogy was written over 100 years ago but remains the only serious study of the Openshaw family of Lancashire. I have, as transcriber, attempted to remain true to text as much as possible. The original 25 page compilation (see this example) was intended to be more of a visual display of the family structure, rather than a text-based history. Therefore, many event places (births, marriages, etc.) have been omitted in favor of listing the family seat. I would like to add to this study through time with more detail (and especially sources!), but will leave this decision to the rest of the Openshaw research community. Please let me know where I have made mistakes and enjoy this for what it is. Also, take the time to thank Peter Duxbury for copying this and sending it to me. - Ross |
Ther family of Openshaw is of great antiquity, the first mention of the name occuring in the time of Edward I. (1295), when Robert de Openshagh, Chaplain, witnessed a deed conveying a gift of land from Henry de Ancotes to Alander le Tincture.1
The next mention is found in Examynatyons toucheynge Cokeye Mor, temp. Hen. VIII. published in Vol. II of the Chethem Society's Publications, and referring to a dispute between the Lords of Middleton and Radcliffe.2
It has been surmised that the family is of Flemish origin, but if it takes its name from the Shaw or Wood mentioned in the Examynatyons, it would seem far more probable that it is of Saxon origin.
Parish Registers were first commenced in 1540, those at Bury dating from 1575, and those at Radcliffe from 1558.
The family of Openshaw has been connected with the Woollen Trade for many generations, and as will be seen, has been resident in Radcliffe and Bury parishes for several centuries.
The Authorities consulted in drawing this Genealogy are Dr. Whitaker's History of Whalley, the Chetham Miscellanies, Vol. II. (already refered to), Registers at the Parish Church, Bury, Registers at Radcliffe; the work intituled "Ducatus Lancastriae", Croston's Naines History on Lancashire, and the memorials erected in the various burial grounds attached to the Parish Church, and St. John's and St. Paul's Churches, Bury, and elsewhere. Many family bibles have also been perused. Strange to say the Registers at Bolton and Middleton contained no information.
The Editor has derived much information from the MSS. of his father-in-law, the late Rev. Thomas Openshaw, and he is also deeply indepted to the many members of the Openshaw Family, who, by willingly supplying information, have greatly assisted in compiling what has been to him a labor of love.
1.
See Manchester Guardian (about) May, 1853.
2. See Pedigree, page 1 (Generation 1)
Ross D. Andrews
7558 Quail Run Lane
Manassas, VA 20109
vtandrew@erols.com
Send email to: vtandrew@erols.com
Ultimate Family Tree, ver 2.0
BURY Project Version 10
August 17, 1999
Back to the main site
Please do not
republish material found here without asking first