Hi I'm new to this list, but my family came from the North East and I am tracing my ancestors. I am intersted in the HOLMES family of Coundon and also a Whitfield GARDENER from Stanhope. There are several generations of these from 1690 to about 1801. A question - what is an annuitant? Elizabeth Holmes (age 77) of Coundon is listed on the 1881 census as being an annuitant. Does this mean that she was in receipt of an annuity? If so would there be any records that I could check to find out who the annuaity was from and how much it was etc.? Another question - where is Weardale? Does it cover several villages and towns, and if so which? I would be grateful for any help, and I am enjoying reading your messages. Joan Moreton (nee Holmes) from Bedford