Ernest Cecil Parrish – 63 High Street

Ernest was born in Stamford in July 1896 and his baptism is recorded in the Stamford Circuit Register in August 1896. His father had previously been in business as a Gents Clothier at 16 High Street but as Ernest grew up the business had moved to 63 High Street.

Ernest had 2 elder brothers and a younger sister. The only member of the family for whom a military record has been found was Edgar who was a Private in the Lincolnshire Regiment but Ernest and his other brother may have served.

Thomas Daniel Parrish, Ernest’s father died in 1917, however the business continued with all 3 of his sons and his daughter working there in due course. The eldest son, Herbert Thomas, had married Ethel Plowright in 1915 so he and his family lived at No 63. The business expanded with Children’s, Ladies & Linen departments at 10 High Street and a Furniture Department at 45 Broad Street. After World War II, Herbert’s son John extended the business next door into No 64 selling electrical goods and carpets.

When Ernest died in January 1962 he was living at 11 Victoria Road. He left £107,904. 7s. 6d and probate was given to his unmarried sister, Lillian Ida.