Hellier Gosselin's Diaries
Hellier Robert Hadsley Gosselin was born in 1849 in Wallfield, Hertford, of a distinguished Hertfordshire family, part of which had originated from Jersey - hence the unusual first name, derived from St Helier's. In addition to extensive world travel, he served in a number of capacities in local politics, including two terms as Mayor of Hertford in the late 1890s. In 1902, he married Mary Grimshawe, from a prominent Derbyshire family, and added her name to his by deed poll, and he died in 1924. He has been described as a courteous unassuming, essentially quiet man, who had the regard of everyone who had the privilege to be in his company. Mr Gosselin kept a diary during his mayoral terms, some exctracts from which are given here. His aversion to committee work and his impatience with those who talked too much at meetings and other formal occasions come over very strongly.