I got to thinking about this subject when I read the following from October 1905:
Quote:
A magnificent wreath, measuring over 3ft across, and composed of red and golden chrysanthemums, was, yesterday morning, placed on the tomb of Lord Nelson's wife, Viscountess Nelson, in Littleham Churchyard, Exmouth, Devon. The tribute was sent by the deceased's relatives, the Woolward family, who live at Dunnington Rectory, York. Attached to the wreath was the following inscription: - "To the memory of Viscountess Nelson, a good woman, and devoted wife. - From members of the Woolward family."
Lady Nelson was, of course, born Frances Woolward.
The Woolward then living at Dunnington Rectory was Reverend Spencer A Woolward. His grandfather - John Woolward - was a midshipman on HMS Alexander at the Battle of the Nile. This was presumably under Lord Nelson's patronage albeit I can't recall reading anything about this before.
There were later naval Woolwards and in at least 2 generations there was a
John Horatio Woolward.
So they seem to have been justifiably proud of their association with Nelson.
Can anyone add anything to this story?
MB