Hello steven,
Yes we are 2nd cousins, although my mother only recalled your grandfather as having a daughter - Hettie, so we were obviously unaware of each others existance. Perhaps you could fill me in on Henry Preston/Ollenbittle's decendents. do you have any photos?
The photograph is remarkable, and demonstrates the desirability of a professional photographer (who uses a good camera). The images are so crisp and clear and not at all fuzzy.
We should certainly get together, however I am off on holiday this week with the family for a couple of weeks, so this would have to wait until some time after that. I now live in Norfolk, after moving from London some 10 years ago.
Looking back on my notes, there are a couple of things that I can add about Henry. My mother was 14 at the time of her abortive employment in the sweet shop, so being born in 1916, this would place the event in about 1930. The location of the sweet shop was in Richmond (upon Thames, London).
Do you have any information about earlier members of the family? Have you found Henry and Alice Mary in the 1901 Census or do you copies of Henry's military record? If you send me your e-mail address I will forward you what I have.
Regards
Max