A Legacy of Notebooks
A Somers Town Girl – Mum’s Story by Susan Dilworth
The inspiring true story of a young woman’s resilience through turbulent times—the Great Depression, World War II evacuation, and beyond—spanning an extraordinary 96 years. These heartfelt stories, preserved in notebooks, were discovered by Susan and her brother after their Mum passed away.
Susan has brought these remarkable writings to life in a captivating book. which is available on this website <<click here>>
A Legacy Preserved – Mum’s Story
Susan writes……… In every word Mum wrote I could hear her voice, filled with warmth, strength, and that special tone she had when she smiled. It was truly wonderful to have these notebooks, knowing that every word was written by her. They are now among my must treasures possessions.
Mum painted a vivid portrait of a world shaped by hardship, but brightened by resilience, and the enduring bonds of family. It became clear that her story deserved to be shared. But only as a legacy for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but for everyone who lived through these times.
The Book in Brief
A Childhood Marked by Hardship
Born in 1926, during the Great Depression, Mum was 13 when World War II began. When she was 14, her family was evacuated from London to Leicester, a move made even more difficult when her mother fell seriously ill and was hospitalised. Despite her youth, Mum took on the immense responsibility of caring for her three younger brothers, aged 5, 7, and 9 months. Her mother’s greatest wish was to keep the family together—a plea Mum met with unwavering determination and remarkable courage. She packed a couple of bags with apples, and milk for the baby, got her brother’s ready and ran away early one morning. She made for Quorn because she knew her a grandmother has been evacuated there. She had no idea how to get there but 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 equally remarkable. Her mother was the second eldest of seventeen children—a testament to enduring family bonds and descended from resilient, tough Londoners: her grandfather was a costermonger and the Pearly King of St Pancras.
Her father was born outside of wedlock, and his heritage remains a mystery. Her grandmother was a dedicated suffragette, and from these powerful roots, she inherited a deep pride and steadfast sense of purpose.
A London..Vanished
Her memories offer a glimpse into a London if long ago—a city bustling with markets, coal yards, local shops, and unforgettable neighbourhood characters. Her stories do more than preserve history; they breathe life into the past with striking clarity, offering a window into a vibrant era long gone.
A Young Woman’s Perspective on Social History
What sets her story apart is its unique viewpoint: that of a young woman navigating the challenges of war, loss, hope, and new beginnings. Her narrative vividly captures what it was like to come of age during such tumultuous times, giving voice to countless others whose experiences have remained untold.
Preserving Her Voice for Future Generations
My dearest wish in sharing this book is to honour Mum’s voice and keep her memories alive—not only for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but for everyone who lived through those remarkable times and for generations yet to come. These notebooks remain a lasting legacy, uncovering the inspiring true story of a young woman’s bravery during World War II, and offering a heartfelt tribute to the endurance of family, the courage of women, and the vibrant history of a vanished London.