Born In Salford, Living There Until 1951, My Happiest Years

A Memory of Salford.

Actually I was born in 1936, in Hope Hospital. My mom was Elizabeth Scotchford and my dad Noel Lilley. They separated after my brother Paul was born. My only memory was living with my grandma and grandpa at 59 Edward Ave. I went to Tootal Road School, then Pendleton High School. My grandma's first husband was killed in WW1, she was originally a Flitcroft, then Scotchford, then she married Tom Minta, my grandpa. She had about 13 brothers and sisters with families. I hope someone recognizes some of the names. I moved to America in 1951 and eventually lost contact with all my family. I had good friends, Brenda Hartley (Bark) and Peter Worthington who were my neighbours. There were a lot more in High School and we stayed in touch for a while. We used to hang out at the Weaste Hotel, ride our bikes through Buile Hill Park and go to Urmston Baths. Boy my memory is better than I thought. I remember a lot of us walking to school through the park. Those were a few of my fondest memories. I was so unhappy when I came to America, I really missed all my friends and family. I was baptized in St James Hope Church and I remember Sunday School. I also remember a red headed kid who walked home from Tootal Rd School with me, his name was Albert Finney. At my age you hope there is someone who remembers your memories with you. I also was evacuated to Wales during the war. These memories sort of pour out and become rambling. I really was never able to know my dad or his family. I hope someone might know someone in the Lilley family. That was my name, Pat Lilley. It is so weird that I can bring up the picture of my house where I lived and see it on the computer. I was surprised it was still there. I have only met one person in all my years who had heard of Salford. She was born in Hope Hospital and lived in Salford; I was amazed. I have also been amazed reading about all the changes that have happened in Salford over the years. I have always regretted not visiting, but life happens.