Rye House Watercress beds
The beds were started by James Welch and taken over by his son, Ernie. The water was very good for growing watercress and the owner, Mr Welch, also supplied Sams of Hoddesdon, who made cricket bats and rackets.
However, the business ceased virtually overnight when the water level fell during the Second World War.
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I am sure I can remember these watercress beds in the early fifties, or have I got it wrong?
I would like to speak to someone regarding James Welch. I would like to know how I’m related to him.
James Welch was also my great grandfather Kate. His son Alfred (brother of Basil) was a cressman too, he worked on the beds at Hertingfordbury. His son, now 94, still lives in Hertford.
James Welch married Alice Johnson, 11/01/1872. Alice’s mother, Mary Ann, is my 2 x great grandmother’s sister.
James Welch was my Great grandfather. After his death my grandfather Basil Welch carried on the watercress beds at Tewin, followed by my father, Howard. I would be interested to know whether there are still any family members left in the area