Elm Farm - Branson's House - Cosgrove Lodge

Ref: Date Occupant
Auction 1855 Daniel Warren
Auction 1868 L. Osborn
Auction 1889 Frederick Dickens
Census 1891 Joseph Holt (The Elms Farm)
Wolverton Express 1898 G. F. Branson
Census 1901 F. Branson "The Elms" Retired Publican
Kelly's Directory 1903 -1910 Mrs. Stanley Bird
Census 1911 William Hurst , wife is the caretaker of Cosgrove Lodge
Electoral Roll 1914 G. F. Branson last recorded as owner of the Lodge
Riden 1914 Robert Penson - farming at the Elms in 1914
Kelly's Directory 1920 - 1940 Charles Reginald Whiting , farmer
A view of the Lodge taken at the time of the sale in 1961. The initials "GFB" can been seen in the ironwork of the gates.

1855

PARTICULARS

THIS VERY VALUABLE

FREEHOLD ESTATE,

IS SITUATE IN THE

Parish of Cosgrove,

Immediately adjoining the Village, and is conveniently sub-divided for occupation by very excellent
live fences, as follows, viz:-

No.
 
A.
R.
P.
1
House, Buildings, and Home Close
8
3
1
2
Garden
0
1
0
3
New Piece
17
1
0
4
Ford Meadow
9
0
0
5
The Whales
6
3
4
6
Biddle Meadow
6
1
23
7
New Meadow
6
2
0
 
A.
54
3
28

The whole of which is first-rate Pasture and Meadow Land, the latter lying in the fertile Vallies of and
adjoining the Rivers Ouse and Tove.

THE FARM HOUSE

Is very convienient, and most of the buildings have been erected within a few years.

The Property is Tithe-free, and the Parochial Rates very moderate.

The Grand Junction Canal adjoins the Property, and the Wolverton Station, is on the London and North
Western Railway, is within a very short distance.

The Farm is let to a highly respectable Tenant at a Rental of £170 per annum, but in consequence of the
depressed prices of Agriculture produce, he has had a temporary abatement of £5 per cent
from the Rent.

Bucks Chronicle and Bucks Gazette Saturday 19 May 1855

VALUABLE
FREEHOLD and TITHE-FREE ESTATE.
TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION,
BY Mr. Durham,
On FRIDAY, the 15th Day JUNE, 1855,
 At the COCK HOTEL, in STONY STRATFORD,
At Six o’Clock in the Evening,
By DIRECTION OF THE MORTGAGEES

THAT FARM of first-rate PASTURE LAND, situate adjoining the village of Cosgrove, now in the occupation of Mr. Daniel Warren, and conveniently subdivided by excellent live fences, containing together 54a. 3r 28p., more or less, with a good Farm-House and Buildings standing thereon. The property is bounded on the south and east by the rivers Ouse and Tove, and the meadows thereto adjoining are most fertile. It also joins the Grand Junction Canal; and is within a very short distance of the Wolverton Station, on the London and North-Western Railway.

Parochial Rates exceedingly Moderate.

For further particulars, apply to Messrs. Cardale, Iliffe, and Russell, solicitors, 2, Bedford-row, London; Mr. Parrott, solicitor, Stony Stratford ; or at the offices of Mr. Durham, land-agent, &c., Stony Stratford and Daventry.


Buckingham Advertiser and Free Press Saturday 06 March 1880

COSGROVE, near STONY STRATFORD

19 HEAD of Well-bred CATTLE comprising
4 New-milch COWS,
2 In-calf HEIFERS, Barren COW,
4 Heifer CALVES, and
8 Two and Half-year Old BULLOCKS,
2 Nag HORSES, Useful COB, Valuable 2-yearold Bay Cart FILLY, DONKEY, In-pig YELT and 5
50 Head of POULTRY and DUCKS,
100 FLEECES of WOOL, and about 50 Tons of Capital Old HAY. (all to go off),
4 Well-built CARRIAGES, viz., a Handsome Brougham for one or a pair, with lamps, &c., in capital order, a well-built Wagonette with lamps and cushions, in good condition (to carry eight persons), Wicker Pony Phaeton, with lamps, &c., (under 4 cwt.), Strong Phaeton, Sets of Silver-plated and Brass Mounted Harness, Riding Saddle, Lady’s Saddle, &c.
IMPLEMENTS, consisting of Iron-arm Wagon and Carts, Oil Cake Crusher, Bean Mill, Chaff Cutter, Field Roll, Drag Rakes, Iron Sheep and Pig Troughs, Thiller and Trace Harness, Two Iron Garden Rolls, Tools, and effects,

WILL BE SOLD BY AUCTION,
BY GEORGE BENNETT,

On Monday, March 22nd, 1880, on the Premises by direction of Mr. L. Osborne, who is leaving.


Bucks Herald Saturday 01 May 1880

TO LET. A SMALL and CONVENIENT PLEASURE FARM, situate at COSGROVE, near STONY STRATFORD, containing about 55 ACRES of good sound PASTURE and MEADOW LAND, with capital Residence, having four Bed Rooms, two Attics, Dining and Drawing Rooms, two Kitchens, Pantry, Washhouse, &c.; also Homestead and Buildings, standing in its own grounds, with Carriage Drive from the Village. The House and Premises are good Repair, and possession may be had at once.—Apply to Mr. GEO. BENNETT, Estate Agent and Auctioneer, Buckingham.


Buckingham Advertiser and Free Press Saturday 05 March 1881

COSGROVE, near STONY STRATFORD,
Within a mile of Wolverton Station, L. & N. W. R.
LET, Immediate Possession,
MOST CONVENIENT PLEASURE FARM, with RESIDENCE

The RESIDENCE is Detached, and situate near to, but out of the Village of Cosgrove, and has Dining and Drawing Rooms. Four Principal Bedrooms, W. C., Two attics, Two Kitchens and Offices. FARM LAND adjoining, with Carriage Standing Stable, Cowhouse, Hovels, Fowlhouse, Piggeries, &c. Flower and Kitchen Gardens stocked with Fruit Trees, and 55 Acres of Excellent PASTURE and MEADOW LAND.
For further Particulars, apply to MR. GEORGE BENNETT, Land Agent and Auctioneer, BUCKINGHAM.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 11 April 1888

COSGROVE, near Stony Stratford.

55 ACRES of luxuriant GRASS for Mowing (the Hay to go off), and the GRASS KEEPING up to the 31st of December, 1868,

TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION,

By GEO. BENNETT,

On MONDAY, April 20,1868, direction of Mr. L. Osborn.

Credit given on the usual terms.
The Mowings are well known to produce heavy crops, and the Grazings are of first-rate quality. The company is requested to meet the Auctioneer, at the
Plough Inn, at Three o'clock in the Afternoon.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 16 October 1869

PETTY SESSIONS OCTOBER 8TH present - Rev H J Barton chairman; Major Levi and C. G Percival Esq.

William Smith, a little boy, of Cosgrove, was summoned by Mr. Lewis Osborn for stealing a quantity of apple, from his orchard, at Cosgrove, on September 15th.

Mr. Osborn stated he did not wish to press the charge but only as an example to others, as he had frequently suffered by depredations committed in his orchard.

Joseph Atkinson, gamekeeper to J. C. Mansel, Esq., proved the case and the Chairman, after a suitable caution to both the boy and his mother (who was present), inflicted a fine of 1s., which, with the costs, amounted to 10s. 6d.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 30 April 1870

COSGROVE, near Stony Stratford.

55 ACRES of GRASS for MOWING (the Hay to go off), and GRASS KEEPING, on fine old Pasture and rich Meadow Land,

BE SOLD BY AUCTION,

By GEO. BENNETT,

On Monday, May the 2nd, 1870, direction of Mr. L. Osborn, in the following Lots:—

Lot
A.
R.
P.
1. Home Close, to be mown, and the hay to go off    
8
1
0
2. New Piece, ditto   ditto 
17
1
0
3. The Whales, ditto ditto
6
3
4
4.   Trunk Meadow, to be grazed up to 31st Dec, 1870
6
1
23
5.   Ford Meadow, ditto ditto
9
0
0
6. New Meadow, ditto  ditto
6
2
0
The Lattermath Keeping as under, up to the 31st Dec, 1870.
7. Home Close  
8
1
8.  New Piece
17
1
9. The Whales
6
3

Credit on the usual terms. The Company is requested to meet the Auctioneer at The Plough Inn, Cosgrove, at Three o'clock in the afternoon, and proceed to Sale.

These fields are well Fenced and Watered, and are known to produce great Crops of Grass.

N.B.—The comfortable and convenient RESIDENCE, with Garden, Stable, and Coach-house, detached and pleasantly situate in the fields, near Cosgrove Village, TO LET with immediate possession.


Bucks Herald Saturday 04 November 1876

COSGROVE near STONY STRATFORD

8 FRESH HOME-BRED STEERS, 20 HEREFORD AND WELSH OXEN, 4 years old;
BARREN HEIFER. Well-bred Young SHORTHORND BULL,
6 FAT THEAVES, excellent Bay CART MARE.

TO BE SOLD BY AUCTION, BY GEO. BENNETT,
On MONDAY, the 13th day of NOVEMBER, 1876,
On the PREMISES, at COSGROVE, by direction of Mr. L. Osborn.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 27 September 1879

NORTHAMPTON CATTLE MARKET
W. J. PEIRCE
WILL SELL BY AUCTION

THIS DAY, Saturday, Sept. 27th, 1879, in the above Market, at Twelve o'clock, THE following HORSES,

The property of Mr. L. Osborne, Cosgrove. A Capital Black Cart Mare, eight years old, quiet, and a good worker, and believed to be sound.
Colt Foal, out of above, by Mr. Sander's black Horse, Active.
An excellent Bay Yearling Filly, by Active.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 11 October 1879

FOR SALE a handsome Bay Yearling Cart FILLY, by Mr. Sanders' Black Horse Active, out of a good Mare. Active was highly commended at the Bedford Show.

Also, a useful Black Gelding Carriage HORSE, aged, quiet to ride and drive, and believed to be sound. For price and particulars, apply to Mr. Osborn, Cosgrove, near Stony Stratford.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 17 January 1880

FOR SALE, handsome pure-bred down-calving Ayrshire COW, time up, second calf ; bought direct from Fowler's.—For particulars, Mr. Osborn, Cosgrove near Stony Stratford.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 13 April 1889

THE ELMS FARM, COSGROVE,

Close to the Castlethorpe Station, on the L. and N. W. Railway.

Messrs. Durham, Gotto and Samuel,

are instructed by Mr. Lewis Osborn,

TO SELL BY AUCTION,

On Thursday, April 18th, 1889.

56 Acres of Excellent GRASS KEEPING,
Up to the 11th of October next, 39 Acres of which can
be mown (to go off) ;

Also part of a Rick of Well-gotten Meadow HAY;
A Stump of ditto;

And a Quantity of WILLOW POLES.

Credit will be given until August 1st, on payment of a deposit of 25 per cent., and giving approved security upon conditions which will be produced at the time of Sale. The company are requested to meet the Auctioneers at the Farm Buildings at Three o'clock precisely.

Catalogues may be had of Messrs. Durham, Gotto and Samuel, Auctioneers and Land Agents, 12, Guildhall Road, Northampton, Stony Stratford and Newport Pagnell.


Northampton Mercury - Saturday 25 May 1889

COSGROVE, Northamptonshire,

Within a few minutes' walk of Castlethorpe Station, the L. and N.-W. Line, and two miles from the Market Town of Stony Stratford.

Messrs. Durham, Gotto, and Samuel
are instructed

TO SELL BY AUCTION,

At the Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford, on Thursday, JUNE 20TH, 1889, at Four for Five o'clock, the Highly desirable Freehold and Tithe-free

PLEASURE FARM,

known as " Elm Tree Farm," containing 56 acres of rich Accommodation Pasture Land, a portion being prettily timbered, with a comfortable and pleasantly-situated stone-built and slated Residence, (approached from the village through avenue of young and thriving Elm Trees), and the necessary farm buildings for the occupation of the land. The Farm has until recently and for several years been in the occupation of Mr. Frederick Dickens, at the annual rent of £110. The property is bounded on two sides by the Rivers Ouse and Tove, where excellent fishing can be had.

Particulars, with plan and conditions of Sale, may shortly be obtained of W. R. PARROTT, Esq., Solicitor, Stony Stratford; Or of Messrs. Durham, Gotto, and Samuel, Land Agents and Auctioneers, 12, Guild-hall-road, Northampton Stony Stratford ; and Newport Pagnell.


Cosgrove, Pleasure Farm Sale 1889
in the occupation of Mr. Frederick Dickens

Plan Nos. 226 & 210

PARTICULARS.

The highly desirable FREEHOLD and TITHE FREE

PLEASURE FARM

Known as "ELM TREE FARM," containing by the recent Ordnance Survey 56a. 1r. 14p. of rich Accommodation Pasture Land, a portion being prettily timbered, and divided as follows:-

No. on Plan
Description and Name of Fields.
Quantity
   
A.
r.
p.
210
Kitchen Garden
0
0
38
209
Near Meadow
6
3
32
226
Residence, Flower Garden and Farm Buildings
0
2
2
227
Home Close
8
0
26
236
Hill Ground17
17
2
16
237
The Bird
9
2
15
238
The Whales
6
2
33
251
The Trunk
6
2
12
 
 
56
1
14

More or less, exclusive of the River.

The House is a comfortable and pleasantly situated Stone-built and Slated Residence approached from the village through an Avenue of young and thriving Elm Trees, and containing Entrance Hall, two Sitting Rooms, four excellent Bedrooms and two Attics, with Kitchen, Pantry, and Scullery fitted with two coppers, which is approached by a covered way.

The Farm Buildings consist of Stabling for two nags and four working horses, with loose box; Cowhouse for seven cows, stone built and slated Barn, and open Sheds; comprising all that is necessary for the proper occupation of the land.

The Farm has until recently, and for several years, been in the occupation of Mr. FREDERICK DICKENS, at an Annual Rent of £180 0 : 0.

The Rivers Ouse and Tove (where excellent Fishing can be had) bound the property on the East and South, the Grand Junction Canal Company’s Broad Water bounds the property on the West, and on the North is the Main Road through Cosgrove, and the Grand Junction Canal Company’s Wharf is within 100 yards.

The only Outgoings are a present Land Tax of £6 3s. 2d., and a Fee Farm Rent of 3s.5d.

The Purchaser will have to pay the sum of £87 1s. 0d., being the amount of the Valuation of the Timber, and some few Fixtures.

The neighbourhood is a first-rate one for Hunting purposes, being within 2½ miles of the Grafton Kennels, and within about 6 miles of the Whaddon Chase Kennels; and by the erection of a suitable House and Stabling, for which there is an excellent site, the property might be converted into a valuable Hunting or Breeding Establishment, in which case the existing house might be occupied by a stud groom or bailiff.

Possession can be on the 12th of October next.


Plan of Estate at Cosgrove for sale by auction June 20th 1889

Northampton Mercury - Friday 15 May 1891

THE ELMS FARM, COSGROVE.

MESSRS. DURHAM, GOTTO, and SAMUEL

are instructed by Mr. Lewis Osborn

TO SELL BY AUCTION,

On Monday, May 25th, 1891,

56 Acres of Excellent GRASS KEEPING
Up to the 11th October next, 39 acres of which can
be mown (to go off),
Part of Rick of well-gotten MEADOW HAY,
Two well-bred Shorthorn BULLOCKS,
2½ years old, and
Four Milch COWS and CALVES, belonging to
Mr. JOSEPH HOLT..

Credit for the Keeping will be given until August 1st next on payment of a deposit of 25 per cent., and giving approved security upon conditions which will be produced time of sale.

The company are requested to meet the Auctioneers at the Farm Buildings at Three o'clock precisely.

Catalogues may be had of Messrs. Durham, Gotto, and Samuel, Auctioneers and Land Agents, Stony Stratford and Newport Pagnell.


Northampton Mercury - Friday 25 August 1893

THE ELMS FARM, COSGROVE.

MESSRS. DURHAM, GOTTO, and SAMUEL

are instructed by Mr. Lewis Osborn

TO SELL BY AUCTION,

On Monday, September 1893,

56 Acres of Excellent GRASS KEEPING, from November 2nd next up to the 29th day of September, 1894, and which can be mown once or grazed.

Credit will given until the 24th of June, 1894, on payment of a deposit of 25 per cent., and giving approved security for the balance upon conditions that will be produced at the time of Sale. The company are requested to meet the Auctioneers at the Farm Buildings at Five o'clock precisely. Catalogues may be had of Messrs. Durham, Gotto, and Samuel, Auctioneers and Land Agents, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, and Northampton.



George Frederick Branson was a larger than life character who livened up Cosgrove,
leaving behind him a splendid house and even more splendid legends.

Wolverton Express 6.10.1972

‘WHEN COSGROVE LODGE WAS BRANSON’S FOLLY’

Mackenzie Hill Ltd., who have bought Cosgrove Lodge for a reputed £250,000, may think  its 110 acre park has a future potentially rich in capital returns.

But a glance at its history reveals a past rich in colour and controversy.

Colour was in the form of one George Frederick Branson, a 19th century version of today’s football pools winner,  who came into a fortune by luck and allegedly lost it through luxury, leaving Cosgrove Lodge as his only lasting achievement.

Controversy has surrounded the estate for generations, from gossip mongers speculating the naughty goings-on at the Branson’s Folly as the Lodge was originally called, to the opening of the gravel pits and later the leisure park with thousands of day trippers pouring through the village with cars and caravans.

It all started, as some locals still recall, with “Squire” Branson’s arrival at Cosgrove at the end of the 19th century. This is how the “Express” recorded the story in 1961.

“Dover’s boy, potman, barman he might have been but when he came to this small Northants village in 1898 he had quite a sizeable fortune.

“He had won the money on a sweepstake in an out-post of the British Empire – some say Canada, others India, South Africa or even Australia. Anyhow this rotund, jovial man with a charming wife showed a sound business head.

“Before coming to Cosgrove he set part of his winnings to work, buying up public houses, improving them and selling them to breweries at a handsome profit.

“It is a fact that Branson built the Lodge on the site of the former farmhouse in 1898 – and he made sure people remembered him. His name was cut on a foundation stone near the front door. His initials stand boldly in stone over the porch, intertwined in the massive black iron gates and still be vaguely seen on some doorknobs.

“G.F.B. is carved over the fireplace and in the hall – but the Bransons did not need the initials. People still talk of his fabulous extravagance, his generosity, his drinking and his all-night parties.

“Branson had a house in London and many were his rich friends he entertained at The Lodge with parties that set the village talking. Some people envious of his apparent wealth and contemptuous of his extravagance prophesied: ‘He’ll die a pauper’.

They may well have been right. About 10 years after making his home at Cosgrove, Branson left – selling the house he had so splendidly built with all the best materials – and returned to London. Some say he died a poor man.

“That may be so. But his monument is at Cosgrove in his house and in the memories of his misguided generosity.”

On Branson’s abdication a Mrs. Bird made the 10 bedroomed manor house her home for a short while. It was then empty for eight years before Mr.  C. R. and Mrs. Whiting moved there in 1919. They stayed for 31 years.

In 1950 Mr. and Mrs. Betts and family took over the house for eight years, then Dowsett’s set up offices there while the M1 motorway was being built. For two years it remained empty until Mr. J. H. White of Barton Hartshorn Manor paid £7,300 for the house and land at a Northampton auction in May 1961.

It was at that sale that Cosgrove Sand and Gravel finally gave up the use of the vast gravel pits having exhausted supplies after many years of excavation.

Although Mr. White managed to get outline planning permission for a country club with sailing, fishing and sites for caravans, he did nothing to put this advantage to good use.

Two years later in July 1963 with the permissions the house and estate passed into the hands of the Clarke family for a reputed £35,000. With Mr. Harry Clarke, managing director of newly formed company Cosgrove Lodge Ltd., at helm and his son Peter as estate manager, the disused gravel pits were transformed in the following years into a huge leisure park and the Lodge into a hotel.


Cosgrove Lodge was one of the major properties in Cosgrove which was let to prestigious tenants from time to time. In 1902 the Bransons left their “folly” of a house at Cosgrove Lodge but apparently retained ownerships for some years during which time other important names are reputed to have occupied it. Branson remained on the Electoral Roll at Cosgrove as owner of Elms Farm, until 1914 although we know that his financial affairs were very dubious in London for at least four years before he apparently relinquished ownership of Cosgrove property.

One of the most notable of his tenants was Mrs Martha Pauline Bird, known as Mattie, who appears in Kelly’s Directory for 1903 as living in Cosgrove at Cosgrove Lodge as Mrs Stanley Bird. She remained there until 1911, when an auction of items belonging to Mrs Bird took place. (see below)

Martha Azarian - Mrs Martha Pauline Bird known as "Mattie"

Courtesy of Armen Gurekian, January 2011

Martha Azarian, daughter of Joseph Azarian and Martha Bingham

http://maggieblanck.com/Azarian/Azarian.html

During her Cosgrove years Mrs Bird attended several Cosgrove village events, such as the Horticultural show, but considering her colourful past apparently remained fairly secluded in Cosgrove Lodge with her garden. The name “Cosgrove Lodge” appears first in documentation under Mrs’s Bird’s tenancy.

Mattie Bird proved to have a very wealthy background.

Joseph Azarian,  Mattie’s father appeared in the Boston Globe March 22, 1889:

Anna Almy Azarian, the wife of Joseph Azarian, wrote to the Boston Globe regarding the safety of Armenian and American citizens in Constantinople. She described her husband as:

"an American gentleman, born in Constantinople, and who was naturalized in Boston in 1863; was drafted during the war and resided in America over 15 years. He now represents in this city many American industrial establishments." Signed Anna A Azarian nee Almy of New Bedford Mass dated Jan 25, Constantinople

Will probate:

Azarian Joseph of Prinkipo Princes's islands Turkey died 8 January 1899. The Probate of his will in  London on 24 July awarded Anna Almy Azarian widow effects of 2323 pounds 14s.

Part of a letter dated 1838 transcribed from John Suter tells us:

There were two children of this marriage - Annie & Mattie. Their mother died when they were quite young, and nurses and governesses became the order of the day. Their father took them to his Constantinople home. Then later their father married the governess - [Anna] Almy she was - highly educated & quite able to (word ending in "ing") very acceptably his lovely estate on Prinkipo island in the sea of Marmora. As the girls became young ladies they met mostly in the social service the members of the various diplomatic corps. Annie met von Wietersheim, a German naval attache, later Admiral (word).

In the 1891 England Census at the Alexandra Hotel, St. Georges Place, Hyde Park Corner, Knightsbridge, London  the following appears:

Joseph Azarian, visitor age 57. Profession or Occupation: Own Means, Born: Constantinople, Turkey.

Martha Pauline (Mattie) 15 June 1863 (LDS Submission to IGI) (Armen Gurekian, July 2010)

Mattie Pauline Azarian, father, Joseph, mother, Martha B, 16 Jul 1863, Boston, Suffolk Mass. Batch No C007700 (IGI)

US Passport Application: Nov 27, 1888, Martha P Azarian, applied to the Legation of the United States at Constantinople, born Boston 15 June 1863 that her father is a naturalized citizen, soujourning at Constantinople left the US in 1882 bearer of Passport No. 93 issued a to US Legation at Constantinople 15 Sept 1885 and that she would return to the United States "within a few years", age 25, 5 ft 2 inches eyes brown, hair brown

Marriage: to Stanley Bird 19 November 1892, England, (LDS Submission to IGI) Divorced per 1938 John Suter letter.

The Gentlewoman 10 December 1892

Captain Stanley Bird to Miss Azarian.

From Constantinople comes to us news of the wedding of Captain Stanley Bird, of the 7th Fusiliers, with Miss Martha Pauline Marian, daughter of Mr. Joseph Azarian, of Constantinople, which took place on Saturday, November 19, in the chapel of the British Embassy, Pera. The wedding was an event of much interest in Pera society, in which the amiable and attractive bride is greatly admired. By three o'clock the chapel, which was profusely and tastefully decorated with flowers and palm and mimosa trees, was as full as it could conveniently hold, and amongst those present we observed the Russian Ambassador, the British Ambassador, the Persian Ambassador, the Minister for Sweden and Norway and the Countess Steenbock, the Greek Minister and the Princess Maurocordato, the Roumanian Minister, the Belgian Minister, the United States Chargé d'Affaires and Mrs. Newberry, Admiral Woods Pasha and Mrs. Woods, General Hobe Pasha and Baroness Hobe, Mme. Bilinska Pasha, Lady Sandison, Sir Henry Fawcett, the Baron de Call, and many other members of the diplomatic body. Mr. F. de Calice represented the Austrian Ambassador and the Baroness de Calice, who, being engaged to dine at the Imperial Court, were unable to be present.
At a quarter to three the bridegroom arrived, accompanied by Colonel H. C. Chermside, R.E., C. B., C.M.G., who acted as best man. A few minutes after three the bridal procession entered the chapel, the bride being led to her place by her father, and followed by her four bridesmaids, Miss Colombe Azarian, Miss Beatrice Blacque, Miss D. Hanson, and Miss Lucy Woods. The bride wore a most becoming and beautiful dress of pearl satin broché with a long train trimmed with pearls, the bridal veil fastened by a coronet of orange flowers; bouquet, jasmine and white roses.
The four bridesmaids wore pink silk " Empire " gowns, their youthful freshness most becomingly set off by black Gainsborough hats and bouquets of bright red chrysanthemums and ferns. They also wore star and crescent pearl pins, and single pearl pins, which were respectively the gifts of the bride and bridegroom.
At the entrance of the bride the chapel choir began the well-known hymn "The voice that breathed o'er Eden." The marriage service was performed by the Rev. W. E. Cockshott, chaplain of the Embassy, assisted by the Rev. Canon Curtis. Sir Francis Clare Ford, Her Majesty's Ambassador, and Mr. Newberry, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires, were the witnesses. Colonel Chermside, Mr. J. Azarian, the Secretaries of the British Embassy and others also signed the register.
A large number of friends besides those in the church afterwards attended Mrs. Azarian's reception, and congratulatory telegrams and letters poured in throughout the day, including messages from Mr. Mrs. and Miss Bird, father, mother, and sister of the bridegroom; Lady Thornton, Rustem Pasha, Mr. and Mrs. Morel Bey, Faid Bey, Lord Rothschild, Baron Alfred de Rothschild, Baron Leopold de Rothschild, Mrs. Rothschild Lambert, London; Lady Beaumont, Carlton Towers, Carlton, York; Lord Terence Blackwood, on his own behalf and that of the Marquis and Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava, Baron and Baroness Gustave de Rothschild, Baron and Baroness, Em. Leoaino the United States Minister and Mrs. Coolidge, Paris; Lady White, Mrs. von Geijer, Berlin; M. and Mme (neé Borchgrave) G. de Hasseptienne, Vienna; Baron and Baroness Blanc, Rome; Mme. von Radowitz Mr. Mac-Nutt, Madrid ; Mrs. W. E. Goschen, Mr. Thornhill, Lisbon; Baron von Linden, Baroness Schimmel-Penninck, Mr. Charles L. Des Graz, The Hague; Mr. P. Stefanovitch, Mr. Mrs. and the Misses Coundouriotti, Mr. A. G. Coundouriotti, Athens; Mr. Gerard A. Lowther, Mr. Arthur Vere, Sofia; Captain Hegan, Therapia; Count Szechenyi ; Mr. and Mrs. Thurlow Weed, New York; Mr. H. W. Suter, Boston.
Floral emblems, bouquets, and baskets were also received in large numbers. Captain and Mrs. Stanley Bird subsequently embarked for Prinkipo, to spend Sunday at Mr. Azarian's mansion in that island.
They left Constantinople on Monday for Vienna and Berlin, whence they proceeded to the Hague to spend a few days of their honeymoon with the Baron and Baroness von Loon, on their way to London.
Both bride and bridegroom received a very large number of handsome presents, a great deal too numerous for a full list to be given.
They included:- From His Imperial the Salton, the  decoration of the Shefakat; Captain Stanley  Bird, a pearl and diamond brooch, a  turquoise and diamond brooch; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Azarian diamond star and crescent solitaire, necklace and locket; two diamond and enamel brooches; a gold bracelet; cashmere shawl; silver fruit spoons; Mr. and Mrs. Bird, whole of house furniture and silver plate; Jesé Azarian, two silver trays and a silver tea kettle; His Beatitude Mer Stephen Azarian, gold and enamel bracelet sleeve buttons, and pin; His Excellency Aristakes Effendl Azarian, tiara of brilliants; Mr. and Mrs. Andon Effendl Azarian, sapphire and diamond ring; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Effendl A. Azarian, diamond and sapphire bracelet, jewelled parasol handle, gold and diamond vinaigrette Louis XVI.; Misses Colombe and Philomena Azarian, six silver gilt coffee cup holders; Mr. John Azarian, gold watch; Mr. G. Azarian, fur mantle; Mrs. Almy, silver-handled carvers, silver card cases; Captain von Weltersheim, two brooches and a bracelet; Mr. H. W. Suter, a silver tea caddy; Mr. J. W. Suter, an engraving; Baron and Baroness Calice, lunch basket; M. et Mme. de Nelidow, gold goblet, copied from the original in Munich Museum; Mrs. von Radowitz, hand-painted fan; Count and Countess Steenbock, bonbonniére and tongs in silver; Lord Rothschild, Baron A. de Rothchild, Baron L. de Rothschild, aigrette of diamonds and rose pearls; Lady White, sugar and lemon service for tea; Baron and Baroness Hobe, tea caddy in silver and crystal; Woods Pasha and Mrs. Woods, an Oriental screen; Lady Kennard, silver basket; Lord Terence Blackwood, turquoise bracelet and silver matchbox; Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Fane, crystal and silver claret jug; Mr. and Mrs. von Geijer, silver bonbonniere; Col. Chermaide, silver Bosniac fan-holder; the Secretaries of H.M.’s Embassy (present and absent), silver tea service, Queen Anne pattern; Count Koziebrodski, silver seal; Mr. L. Miller, four pearl pins; Mr. Gerard A. Lowther, silver inkstand Mr. M. de C. Findlay, a pair of silver salt-cellars; Mr. F. MacNutt, silk parasol, Louis XVI.; Mr. Svetchine, enamelled Russian spoon; Pastor Suble, Heine’s Poem (illustrated); Mr. and Mrs. A. Gargiulo, ostrich feather and mother-o’-pearl fan; Mr. W. H. Wrench, ten antique Turkish spoons; Mr. J. Bigelow, antique silver box; Miss Kerimé Hilmi, silver guilt coffee-cup holders; Miss Malek Hilmi, silver pencil case; Hassan Seadi Pasha, Albanian silk and gold material for a dress; Seadi Bey Syrian scarf and stuff in gold and silk; Mr. and Mrs. A. Bird, two salvers; Mr. W. Bird, tea and coffee service; Miss Bird, dinner service and vase; Mr. and Mrs. C. Bird, set of dessert knives and forks; the Officers, 7th Royal Fusiliers, presented to the bridegroom a pair of silver candelabra &c. &c.

Aigtette: a headdress consisting of a white egret's feather or other decoration such as a spray of gems.

Stanley Bird, although Mattie’s husband, never lived at Cosgrove with her. He was from a wealthy family of builders in London. He and Mattie remained married until their divorce in the 1930s shortly before his death.

Marjorie Morwenna Bird was the daughter of Stanley and Mattie Bird. She was married to three exotic partners, reported below:

Spouse 1: Mohammed-Said Halim Birth :18 Dec 1897 Cairo, Egypt. Death: 13 Jan 1970

EGYPTIAN PRINCE WEDS ENGLISH BRIDE

CAIRO , May 24 . —Prince Said Halim, cousin : of the King of Egypt, was married this morning at the Egyptian Religious Court to Miss Morwena Bird [grand]daughter of the late Colonel Bingham Bird . The bride and her mother come to Egypt practically, every winter, and they are exceedingly well known in Cairo society . —Central News.

Nottingham Journal 25 May 1923

PRINCE’S ENGLISH BRIDE

Prince Said Halim cousin of the King of Egypt was married at Cairo yesterday (says a Central News Paris message) to Miss Morwenna Bird. The bride and her mother have been to Egypt practically every year, and are very well-known in Cairo society.

ENGLISH GIRL BECOMES A PRINCESS.
SECRET EGYPTIAN WEDDING.

Miss Morwena Bird, daughter of the late Col. Bingham Bird, was married at Cairo to Prince Said Halim, cousin of the King of Egypt. The marriage was performed in secret so far as the public were concerned. Prince Said Halim is one of the younger members of the Royal Family of Egypt. Miss Bird has been prominent in social circles in Egypt.

Dundee Courier 26 May 1923

Despite the strongest opposition on the part of the bridegroom’s relatives, Prince Said Halim, one of the Egyptian Royal House, has been married in the Moslem religious courts to Miss Morwena Bird, an English girl, who has been the belle of the Cairo ballrooms since the war.

Northern Whig 21 January 1924

KING EGYPT TO VISIT CANNES. Cannes, Sunday. King Fuad of Egypt is expected to arrive here shortly a short visit before proceeding to Italy. His Majesty will be accompanied by Prince and Princess Said Halim.— Reuter.

Spouse 2: Roger de Laval

Dundee Courier 25 November 1931

GIRL WHO MARRIED
EASTERN PRINCE

SECOND WEDDING IN LONDON
NEXT MONTH

Princess Said Halim and M. Raoul De Laval

The wedding will take place in London early next month of Princess Said Halim and M. Raoul de Laval.
The news recalls the romantic marriage of an English girl and a second cousin of King Fuad of Egypt. It was in 192[3] that Miss Morwena Bird, daughter of Colonel Stanley Bird and Mrs Bird, was married to Prince Said Halim, a nephew of the Grand Vizier of Turkey, Said Halim, who was assassinated in Rome.
Despite the opposition of the bridegroom's Royal relations, the marriage was registered in the Moslem religious courts in Cairo May 1924, and aroused interest both in social circles in Cairo, where the bride was well known, and in London.
Colonel Stanley Bird, father of Princess Said Halim, lives in London. He was formerly in the Royal Fusiliers, and fought at the Battle of Khartoum.

Prince as Trooper

Prince Said Halim —tall and handsome was educated at Eton. During the war he enlisted as trooper in the Life Guards and served in France.
His marriage was dissolved some years ago, and since then Princess Said Halim and her mother have lived in Paris.
Now the Princess, a lovely woman, with grey eyes and golden-brown hair, has come to London to make preparations for her civil marriage to M. Raoul de Laval.
The religious ceremony will be in Mentone. where the bridegroom's parents have villa.
M. de Laval comes of a Belgian family distinguished in legal circles in Brussels. He is the son of M. de Laval, Legal Counsellor to the American Legation in Brussels, who played so prominent a part in the efforts made to save the life of Nurse Cavell during the war after she had been sentenced to death by the German authorities.

Dundee Courier 25th November 1931

ENGLISH GIRL WHO WEDDED A PRINCE

Second Marriage to High-Born Belgian

Princess Said Halim, an Englishwoman, formerly the wife of Prince Said Halim, second cousin of King Fuad of Egypt, was married at Paddington Register Office, London, yesterday to Mr. Roger de Laval, a young barrister belonging to a noble Belgian family.
Only a few friends were present at the ceremony, at which the bride – a beautiful blonde – wore her travelling suit of brown wool mousse.
The short coat was belted and worn over a brown and white lace wool jumper, and her hat was a small tricorne in brown felt.
The Princess carried a sheaf of pink roses, and a diamond brooch, the gift of her father, Colonel Stanley Bird, was pinned to her coat.
One of the guests was the bride’s seven-year-old daughter, Princess Ferah Halim.

Nottingham Journal 08 December 1931

EGYPTIAN PRINCESS MARRIED

Princess Said Halim, daughter of Colonel and Mrs Bingham Bird, and formerly wife of Prince Said Halim, second cousin or King Fuad of Egypt, was married yesterday Paddington Register Office. London, to M Raoul Laval, a young barrister, belonging to a noble Belgian family.

The Daily Mirror 08 December 1931

Princess Said Halim, formerly wife of the nephew of the Grand Vizier of Turkey, with M. Roger de Laval, following their marriage at Paddington register office.

Roger de Laval was killed in war World War II.

Spouse 3: Major Alfred Edgar Vere Barker Born 21 Dec 1898.  Baptised 4 Feb Holy Trinity, Chelsea husband of Morwenna  Chelsea Register Office London. Marriage Dec 1948 Chelsea Register Office
Incoming Passengers: 1936 Rio to Southampton: 86 Bedford Gardens, London W. 8 barrister.
Died 7 August 1958 Vine Cottage, Smith Terrace, Chelsea, London, Probate London 2 March to Raymonde Barker widow and Frances Blacket Gill solicitor. Effects £16048 16s. 7d.

Marjorie Morwenna Bird died in July 1956 at Monte Carlo, Monaco. She committed suicide.

Mattie’s granddaughter and Morwenna’s daughter by her first husband was Nabila Farah Kérimée Halim, born 8 April 1924 in Paris.
She was married on 27 March 1947 at The London Mosque, Eccleston Square, England to Bernard Hugh Gutteridge. Nabila died on 24 March 2012.


The Bucks Standard Saturday 02 September 1911

Preliminary.

COSGROVE LODGE, COSGROVE
MESSR. FOLL & BAWDEN
Have received instructions to sell by Auction,
Upon the Premises,
On TUESDAY, September 19,
At 12 o’clock prompt,

A QUANTITY of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE. Also a smart bay cob, chestnut pony, pedigree shorthorn cow in milk, pedigree down calving heifer. “CADILLAC” MOTOR CAR, etc. etc.


The Bucks Standard Saturday 09 September 1911

COSGROVE LODGE, COSGROVE,
Two Miles from Stony Stratford.

MESSRS. FOLL & BAWDEN
Having received instructions from Mrs. Stanley Bird
(who is leaving), to Sell by Auction,
On the Premises,
On TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 1911,
At 12 o’clock prompt,

A QUANTITY of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, comprising pile and other carpets, bearskin rugs, hearthrugs, armchairs, occasional chairs, 6 heavy mahogany frame dining chairs with stuffed seats and backs in Morocco, cabinets, loo table, occasional tables, handsome pier glass, 4ft. carved walnut hall stand, Bijou PIANO by H. Bord, pictures and engravings, screens, ornaments, Moorish inlaid table, standard and table lamps, oak long case clock with brass dial, by William Shortland, Stony Stratford. BEDROOM APPOINTMENTS including 4ft. and single enamelled and wood bedsteads, mattresses, bolsters, pillows, 4tf. Wardrobe, marble top washstands, duchesse dressing tables, cretonne and lace curtains, cork lino and underfelt; HOUSEHOLD LINEN; kitchen tables, dish covers, dinner ware, kitchen utensils, sewing machines; OUTDOOR EFFECTS, including lawn mowers, punt, tennis net, croquet set, 36-round ladder, 2 sets of cob harness, child’s riding saddle, stump of old hay, dog cart, governess cart, chestnut pony, pedigree down calving heifer, “CADILLAC” MOTOR CAR, 8, 10, four-seater, with Cape hood and accessories.

On view day prior to and morning of sale.

Catalogues may be obtained from the Auctioneers, 41, High Street, Newport Pagnell, and at Olney, Bletchley and Woburn Sands.


Northampton Mercury - Friday 22 September 1911

COSGROVE. Northamptonshire

Two-and-a-half miles from Stony Stratford and
two miles from Castlethorpe Station L and N.-W. R. Main Line).

IMPORTANT SALE OF AN ATTRACTIVE
FREEHOLD RESIDENCE OR HUNTING BOX.

known as “COSGROVE LODGE”,

With STABLING. FARM PREMISES, and
About

67 ACRES of RICH PASTURE LAND AND
FOUR COTTAGES.

WOODS and CO.

Have received instructions from the Owner.

TO SELL BY AUCTION.

On MONDAY OCTOBER 2nd. 1911.

COCK HOTEL. STONY STRATFORD,
at Four o’clock precisely (unless previously
disposed of by Private Treaty), the following

VALUABLE FREEHOLD ESTATE,

and in Lots described;—

Lot 1. The MODERN STONE-BUILT
COUNTRY RESIDENCE.

Known as “COSGROVE LODGE”

In the Parish of COSGROVE, in the County of Northampton and containing: spacious Entrance Porch, largo Square Hall, Drawing-room leading into Conservatory. Dining-room, Morning-room. Kitchens, and the usual Domestic Offices, capital Bedrooms, Bathroom and Lavatories.

There is large and well-built Dairy.

The excellent Stable Accommodation is well built and conveniently arranged, it having accommodation for 12 horses and could extended if required; large Coach-house, Motor Garage, Harness room and Lofts.

The FARM BUILDINGS, which are newly built and compactly arranged, comprise two capital Yards, Bullock Hovels, Cart Shed, and Piggeries.

The Gardens, which are inexpensive to keep up, comprise well-stocked Kitchen Garden with two Greenhouses and a Tennis Lawn.

Also about 55 Acres of rich PASTURE and MEADOW LAND in eight convenient enclosures.

The House and Home Field are in the occupation of Mrs. Bird, on a lease expiring on September 29th at a yearly rental of £130 and the remaining Land is occupied by Mr Clarke, as yearly tenant, at an apportioned rental of £110.

The Residence stands on gravel soil, most substantially built of Bath stone, and has a southern aspect, and no expense has been spared in its building and decoration. It approached by a Carriage Drive, and there is ample land for the erection of a Lodge at the entrance. Hunting can be obtained with the Grafton, Bicester, and Whaddon Chase Hunts.

The Property stands within easy reach of two good Stations, and London can be reached in 1½ hours. The Farm Buildings are well built and arranged so as to make them suitable tor the maintenance of small herd and stud. The Land is of exceptional quality, well timbered and watered.

There is a Land Tax of about f£10 19s. 3d. on the Property and also an annual Fee Farm Rent of 3s 5d. The Timber and Tenants fixtures are included the sale.

Lot 2. All that Enclosure of Rich

PASTURE LAND, known as “Well Close”, containing 3a. 3r. 32p. or thereabouts and situate at the rear of Cosgrove Lodge, having considerable frontage to the road, and on which stands the well-known and never-failing Chalybeate Spring, known as “St. Vincent’s Well”. The Field is in the occupation of Mr. W. Clarke at an apportioned rent of £9 and there is a small land tax of about 16s thereon, in right of footway across the field.

Lot 3. The Close of Accommodation

PASTURE LAND, known “The Green.’ containing 8a. 1r. 12p or thereabouts in the occupation of Mr.  Clarke, at an apportioned rent of £16; land tax about 17s. 6d. There is a right of footway and carting when necessary over this lot from and to the public highway.

Lot 4. Three Stone-built and thatched

COTTAGES,

with Gardens in the occupation of Messrs. Moore and Valentine, at a gross rental of £16  18s

There is a land tax of about 13s. 9d on this Lot.

Lot 5.—A Stone-built and Slated

COTTAGE

containing Four Rooms, with Garden, in the occupation of Mr. Gascoine at a gross rental of £17  16s;  also the Land adjoining. There is a land tax of about on 6s on this lot.

To view Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 apply to the Tenants,- and for Lot 1 apply to Mrs D Luck, Cosgrove.

Plan and Conditions of Sale and full particulars can be had of the Auctioneers. 2. Derngate, Northampton, and Park-street, Towcester or of

MESSRS BATCHELOR & COUSINS

2 Pancras Lane, Queen-street, London EC


Northampton Mercury 06 October 1911

An important sale of property was conducted Messrs. Woods and Co., Stony Stratford, on Monday, when they put for auction Cosgrove Lodge and about 55 acres of pasture and meadow land in one lot, also several other lots of posture and some cottages.
Cosgrove Lodge is a modern house built of Bath stone. The estate eminently suitable for anyone to enjoy the pastoral pursuits of dairying, shorthorn or horse breeding. The bidding reached £5,000, but the reserve was not reached, and the lot withdrawn.
The second lot, nearly four acres meadow land, known Well Close was withdrawn at £340, and over eight acres of similar land, known the Green, was withdrawn £650. £170 was offered for three stone-built cottages, but refused.
The fifth lot, a stone-built cottage in the occupation Mr. Gascoine rental £7 16s, was sold for £80.
Negotiations are it is understood, proceeding for the sale all the unsold lots. Mr. T. C. Woods conducted the sale, the solicitors being Messrs. Batchelor and Cousins Solicitors, 2 Pancras Lane, Queen Street, London, E.C.