Robert Proddow
Baptised 23rd April 1780 at Threlkeld, Robert was the fourth child of Robert and Esther Proddo (nee Relph) of Hollas. Robert married Ann Boulton on 15th November 1803 at Crosthwaite, witnessed by Simeon Proddow, Robert's older brother. They had 9 children, John 1804 (whilst living at High Hill), Esther (at Stair)1807, Simeon 1810, Robert 1812, Joseph 1817, William 1819, Ann 1821, Sarah 1824, Jane 1829. John, Esther & Jane were baptised at Crosthwaite, the rest at Newlands by Keswick.
The detail on the records around the time of Joseph's baptism (1817) are interesting, it shows Robert Proddow as woollen a manufacturer of Stair Mill. The same records show the families Tindal and Dixon as having the same address and occupation. Independent businesses or some sort of collective? Pigot's Trade Directory for Keswick 1828/29 shows Proddow and How as Woollen & C (cloth?) Manufacturers. Not too sure who Mr. How is. Some time after this they moved to Ellel, presumably to take up a position at the Galgate Silk Mill. Daughter Jane appears on 1861 Census at Ellel as a boarder at Damside Cottage, occupation Silk Reeder.
Robert is buried in the cemetery at Ellel along with his wife Ann and daughter Sarah. The headstone still stands and reads as follows:
In memory of Robert Proddow who died at Galgate August 13th 1865 aged 85 years.
Also of Ann his wife who died Nov 22nd 1854 aged 69 years.
Also of Sarah their daughter who died August 25th 1849 aged 25 years.