Reference numberLH001958DescriptionMary Phipps, (b. 1818), married John Henry Higham, (b. c1817) 11/11/1845 in Gayton, Northamptonshire, England. Edward Henry Higham was born Eydon, Northamptonshire Aug 1846 Mary Ann (possibly Margaret) was born c1852 (no birth cert found). The Higham family left Liverpool for WA 13/03/1853 on the Sabrina, the journey taking 3 months. John and Mary started their own bakery business on the NW corner of Pakenham and High Streets soon after they arrived. Mary Ann died the sometime that same year. Johannah Mary Ann Elizabeth was born 11/06/1854 There are some published references to a son Thomas, said to have died 1854 but there is no reference in the Birth Registers or emigration records and no gravestone. John Joseph was born 14/09/1856 Harry James William was born June 1858 By the end of 1856 John was advertising his services as pastry-cook, grocer, confectioner and general storekeeper. John Henry Higham died of unknown causes 22/11/1858 aged 41. Mary, with four children aged from 5 months to 12 years, took over the running of the business and turned to trading in clothing, foot ware and groceries. Due to her remarkable business sense and sheer determination the business was hugely successful, soon having to move to larger premises on the corner of High and Market Streets. The building still bears the name in 2015. With her sons Edward and later John, Mary's business, M. Higham & Sons, became a significant merchant trader in Fremantle, dealing in a very wide range of business, importing as well as retail. She also invested in land, amassing 70 properties by the time she drew up her last will in 1878. Mary died 21/04/1883, aged 65.Date1870Photograph FormatPhotographDigital ItemYes
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