A Legacy of Notebooks
A Somers Town Girl – Mum’s Story by Susan Dilworth
The true story of a young woman’s resilience through the Great Depression, World War II evacuation, and beyond—spanning 96 years. These heartfelt stories, found in notebooks after their Mum passed, were discovered by Susan and her brother. Susan has now brought these writings to life in a captivating book.
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A Legacy Preserved – Mum’s Story
Susan writes……… In every word Mum wrote, I heard her warm, voice and her special smile. Having these notebooks, knowing she wrote them, is truly remarkable. They are now my most treasured possessions.
The Story At A Glance
Born in 1926 during the Great Depression, Mum was 13 when World War II started. At 14, her family was evacuated from London to Leicester, a move made harder when her mother became seriously ill and was hospitalised.
Despite her youth, Mum took on the huge responsibility of caring for her three younger brothers, aged 5 years, 7 years, and 9 months. Her mother’s greatest wish was to keep the family together—a goal Mum met with strong determination and courage.
She packed bags with apples and milk for the baby, got her brother’s ready, and ran away early one morning. She headed to Quorn, knowing her grandmother had been evacuated there. Though unsure how to get there, she managed.
It took tremendous courage and strength of character, but she fulfilled her Mother’s wishes and kept the family together.
Family Heritage and Resilient Women
Her heritage is remarkable. Her mother, the second of seventeen children, came from a family with strong bonds. She descended from tough Londoners; her grandfather was a costermonger and the Pearly King of St Pancras.
Her father was born out of wedlock, and his heritage remains unknown. Her grandmother was a committed suffragette, and from these strong roots she inherited great pride and a firm sense of purpose.
A London Long Gone
Her memories reveal a London of long ago—a city alive with markets, coal yards, local shops, and memorable neighbourhood characters. Her stories do more than preserve history; they bring the past to life with vivid clarity, offering a glimpse into a captivating era.
A Young Woman’s Perspective on Social History
What makes her story unique is its perspective: a young woman facing war, loss, hope, and new starts. Her tale vividly shows growing up in turbulent times, giving voice to many whose stories remain unheard.
Preserving Her Voice for Future Generations
My deepest wish in sharing this book is to honour Mum’s voice and keep her memories alive—not just for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but for all who lived through those times and for future generations.
These notebooks reveal the true story of a young woman’s bravery during World War II, honoring family endurance, women’s courage, and the vibrant history of a lost London.