Friday 8th July - The main coach party arrived in Liverpool on a wet Friday evening and book in to the Adelphia Hotel.

Dinner was quite late 21:30 hours because of the late arrival and number involved. Approximately 80 attended. The main coach party was joined by local week-enders and a few who had joined in just the Friday evening dinner.

After dinner, each guest stood in turn and gave their name and where they came from. This was interesting to the local members to hear and see cousins from overseas.

Saturday 9th July - The morning saw a slow start but a visit to the R.C. Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King was our first stop. Before entering the cathedral a local newspaper reporter and photographer from the Liverpool Echo took photos and spoke to some of our members. A short story and picture appeared on the front page of the Echo that evening.

The circular cathedral was consecrated in 1967. Its dominant feature is the central lantern tower with slender, spiky pinnacles, some 290 ft. high, above the aluminum roof. This lantern with stained glass illuminates the interior of the building with a pool of light over the central alter. Radiating from the walls are chapels of various shapes, with stained glass windows and austere ornament. The party enjoyed the truly awesome interior of the cathedral.

From there we went to the Central Library which is housed in. a classical sweep of buildings in Liverpool's William Brown Street. Many other members met with us here. Janet Smith, Archivist, put on an excellent exhibition of diaries, photographs, paintings and documents relative to the Molyneux of Sefton. Mr. J.J. Baggley, Reader in History at the University of Liverpool came along and gave us an excellent and inform­talk about the Molyneux family and he was, to say the least, truly appreciated. We were sorry to have him finish but time was of the essence on this tour and from the Library we went to the Maritime Museum and Albert Dock.

An interesting hour or so was spent here. The Albert Dock Victorian buildings now renovated house all sorts of shops, exhibits, working displays, demonstrations, a unique ‘Emigrants to a New World’ gallery and a Maritime Records Centre. Lunch was taken in the Restaurant here which was very good and enjoyed by all.

In the afternoon, whilst some members decided to take free time to discover Liverpool for themselves, the majority went to Speke Hall. The drive along the Mersey estuary was pleasant and sunny. We arrived at Speke on time. Set amid lots of greenery this black and white timbered building, parts Elizabethan and Jacobean, tastefully furnished with period pieces, was indeed a delightful gem. Those who did visit the house appreciated the whole scene. Whilst we were there, local Radio BBC Merseyside inter­ viewed IMFA President Betty Brown, Edland Clark from USA and David L. Molyneux, Reunion Organiser. This recording was transmitted on local radio at 3:00 that day. Questions asked was where the name had originated from and why we were having the Reunion.

Before returning to the Aldephi Hotel a short visit was made to the Anglican Cathedral which was begun in 1904 by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. It is in red sandstone the dominant feature being the large central tower which stands 331 ft. high. There are double transepts on either side. First part of the Cathedral to be completed was the Lady Chapel consecrated in 1910. This building will be the second largest cathedral in the world and the massive piers seem to lose themselves in the darkness as they soar uninterrupted towards the lofty vaults. The windows set in thick walls admit only glimmerings of light. Liverpool will probably be the last cathedral in Britain to be built entirely out of stone. The architecture in the Victorian Gothic style still has parts unfinished.

On Saturday evening after arriving at Croxteth Hall, Mr. Ted Jackson took a group photograph whilst the party stood on the Queen Anne Wing steps. A doorway at the top of the steps shows the Molyneux Crest on the doorway pediment and above that a stone plaque which depicts symbolic trophies of battle over the entrance, a fact that stands out clearly in the family history is the impact they made as soldiers.

Croxteth Hall was the home of the Molyneux family, Earls of Sefton. The cross moline was their coat of arms, and their crest a cap with pea cock's feather. It was an ancient family, whose Norman ancestors were first granted lands in the area around 1100. Their home was then at Sefton, about five miles from Croxteth.

Generations of successful soldiering, advantageous marriages and royal favors added land stretching right across the southwest Lancashire. In the 15th century the Molyneux family gained hereditary control over Liverpool Castle and over the Forest of West Derby. At Croxteth a branch of the family came to live in a house called Barret's Hall, of which no trace now remains. By the end of the next century the first Croxteth Hall had been erected, and part of this Elizabethan house can still be seen at the rear of the present building.

There followed a 100 years or so of mixed fortunes, marked in spite of setbacks during the Civil War by a steady increase in honours and status. By 1702, William 4th Viscount Molyneux was seeking a grander establishment than the old hall at Sefton, and he began to build a fine new wing at Croxteth. Completed in 1714 and generally known as the Queen Anne Wing, this today is the Hall's most attractive facade. It is raised on a wide terrace and embellished with decorated stonework. The new wing transformed the Hall into an imposing mansion, and marked the final removal of the family seat from Sefton to Croxteth. In 1771 came an important milestone in the rise of the Molyneux family, when the 8th Viscount (1748-95) was created 1st Earl of Sefton. Croxteth Hall was further extended around 1800. Throughout the 19th century, backed by a substantial income from agricultural and other rents, the Earls provided for themselves all the necessities of a well-run self-contained country estate. Home farm, stableyard, walled gardens, laundry, dairy, workshops and much else were built or enlarged whilst the rest of the park was managed chiefly for field sports.

Despite the optimism of the 4th Earl's nursery wing, his successors never had large families. Ill health and tragedy narrowed the line of inheritance and the title ended with the death of the childless 7th Earl, Hugh William Osbert Molyneux (1898-1972). His wife Josephine Armstrong, an American, died in 1980. This countess of Sefton gave Croxteth Hall and County Park to the people of Liverpool and is now in public ownership. The hall has been renovated in parts and refurnished, the original furnishings being sold off in about 1873.

An opportunity to tour the hall was taken by our members and guides in period costume took groups around the house. Mr. J. Gordon Read, Keeper of the Archives at Liverpool Museum put on an excellent exhibition at Croxteth and this included letters, personal documents, estate accounts, along with grants of Dignities & Honours, many other documents and the magnificent Pedigree of the Molyneux Family which traces the main line of the Molyneux family back almost to the Norman Conquest. Originally compiled in the rein of Elizabeth I, it was added to later on several occasions. The exhibition was truly appreciated by all who viewed it. Sherry was served just before dinner.

The banquet took place in the old dining room in the Queen Anne Wing at Croxteth and we just about managed to fit into this lovely oak-panelled room, which had a fireplace and a magnificent sideboard. The staff at the hall had successfully assembled the tables and chairs to accommodate the 105 attending. The room was transformed into a very welcoming appearance with plants from the green houses. Wendy's Kitchens (caterer) had worked wonders with the table settings and the tables had floral arrangements here and there in blue and pink, the serviettes matched perfectly.

Wesley and his daughter Marie, President Betty Brown and husband Gordon, Mayor of Sefton, Miss Jenny Kemp and Mayoress, Mrs. Beryl Kennedy and David L. Molyneux welcomed each guest after their names had been announced by the MC/Toastmaster Mr. James Rowland. After grace by Canon O.J. Yandell, Rector of Sefton, the meal commenced.

Immediately after the meal-which was excellent, expertly served and accompanied by as many glasses of wine as one could drink, a toast was given to The Queen, by President Betty Brown.

A welcoming speech was given by the President, and special guests were: Mr. Ted Jackson and Mrs. Cynthia Jackson, Ted being Acting Director of Croxteth Hall and Park. His worship the Mayor of Metropolitan Borough of Sefton, Miss Jenny G. Kemp and Mayoress Mrs. Beryl Kennedy, Mr Gordon J. Read, Keeper of the Archives in Liverpool Museum and his wife Shirley. Canon O.J. Yandell and his wife Nancy.

After welcoming the distinguished guests President Betty Brown then welcomed all the IMFA members from overseas, the U.K. and friends and relations.

The Mayor Miss Jenny G. Kemp then gave a short speech and presented the President with a gift. This was a cherry wood cigar box bearing the ‘cross moline’ emblem.

Our founder Wesley Mullenneix then gave a speech and David L. Molyneux our IMFA Reunion Organiser followed with a short speech and David presented the Mayor and Mayoress with a momento each to mark the Reunion. David also presented to Canon Yandell, a cheque to the value of one hundred pounds toward St. Helen's Church funds at Sefton.

Mr. J. Gordon Read then spoke to the assembly about ancient families and occurrences thoughout the generations concerning the Molyneux. His talk was inforative and in parts amusing. The President then thanked Mr. Read and the function drew to a close.

It had been a long day but many friends had been made and stories exchanged throughout.

Sunday 10th July - We all met at St. Helens Church, Sefton, where it all began for the Molyneux in Norman times. Mr. J. Gordon Read, again spoke to us about the history of St. Helen's and we enjoyed this and asked many questions, members were then free to wander about the church and take note of the many antiquities in which this lovely old church abounds.

The stones and architecture of the church tell the story of the age and growth of the building which expanded from a Decorated Norman church, built on the site of the present chancel in 1170, into an early English church of 1320, having the Norman building as its chancel. This church had one aisle only, on the northside. Of it, only the tower and steeple with a fragment of the west wall of the aisle remain. To this was added a square Lady Chapel in 1340 approached by an ordinary cut through the north wall of the chancel. The Lady Chapel was extended westwards in 1415 by swinging its west wall into line with its north wall. Subsequently, in 1470 the north aisle was thrown further out and heightened to join up with the extention. In 1500 all but the tower and steeple and the north aisle was taken down under the rectorship of Archdeacon James Molyneux, and a Tudor perpendicular church with a south aisle was built. The Sanctuary and Clergy Vestry east of it were completed by Dr. Anthony Molyneux then rector in 1540. Since then nothing has been added except the Choir Vestry in 1915.

There is a Molyneux Family Pew, beautifully carved and containing the fine brass of Margaret Bulcley 1528. There are many fine brasses in St. Helens and tombs belonging to various members of the Molyneux family. The pulpit is very grand and is late 16th century.

Canon Yandell then conducted a special service and the Mayor and Mayoress were present again, the Mayor taking part in Bible reading. Other readings and prayers where done by Wesley Mullenneix USA, Kate O'Neil Canada, and a member from Australia. The Rev. William Molyneux from UK who assists at Emmanuel Church, Southport, read the prayers during part of the service.

After the service there was time to enjoy a cup of coffee and biscuits and cakes, which had been provided by Canon Yandell's parishioners.

Mr J.J. Baggley attended the church service and came back with us to lunch at Croxteth Hall.

An excellent buffet lunch was awaiting us there and were joined by a number of local people, again, we just managed to accommodate everyone in the old dining room.

After a brief welcome by the President, Mrs. Betty Brown, a short tape was played, made especially for the IMFA reunion by Mrs. Ellen Millican who was once cook and kitchen maid at the hall over 60 years ago. She gave us an idea of what life was like at the hall all those years ago. We had with us Mrs. Gladys Armstrong. Gladys had kindly made us a cake to a special secret Croxteth receipe. Also with us was Mr. & Mrs. Palmer. Mr. Palmer was once butler at the hall, and there are stories of him riding up to Abbeystead on his bicycle - in days long ago!

Joe Baggley was one of our luncheon guests, along with Mr & Mrs Ted Jackson. He spoke for a few minutes, again, about the distinguished family of Molyneux, and the talk was much appreciated. Mr Ted Jackson kindly showed us a ecent made film which illustrated what Croxteth Hall and County Park is used for today. This gave us an idea of how the estate is now run and the enjoyment which can be achieved by the general public who made vists here. Mr Jackson also showed a number of slides about Abbeystead. These proved to be beneficial to us for our Monday visit to the shooting lodge.

The special cake was then auctioned and bought for 53 pounds by Mrs Margaret Molyneux - Berry.

Those people who had not been on a house tour previously were now invited to do so by Croxteth Hall guides - all the ladies were dressed in period costume. After, everybody was then free to see the gardens, laundry, etc., and other activities in and around the Hall. The Heritage Display was not to be missed!

‘Show and Tell’ family trees were displayed. Some were excellent. Photos of ancestors, family reunions, taken years ago were on show, all these created a lot of interest. Some of the family trees must have taken hours to produce and were top rate. David L. Molyneux had some ties with the ‘cross moline’ on and bookmarks for sale. He also had rather special certificates, each with the respective guests name on, which commemorated the reunion and was proof of attendance thereto.

At 5.30 pm the main party said goodbye to the local guests and members and travelled back to the hotel in Liverpool. After dinner, some members managed to find Newsham House, which is now a judges lodging, and actually managed to have a look inside.

Monday 11th July - Was a bright sunny morning and our guests said 'cheerio' to Liverpool. After a brief stop in Prescot to collect President Mrs Betty Brown, and because the route to Rainford passed in close proximity to Scholes Hall, Prescot, the coach paused for a few minutes in front of 'The Scholes' as it is known. The lovely old sandstone building dates back to 14/l5th century. Molyneuxs were firm recusants (RC) during the Reformation and for many years after, and had many priests in the family. One was a Jesuit Priest, Father William Molyneux. He was legally 7th Viscount of Sefton and served the mission a Scholes from 1728 until his death at the age of 75. After that his nephew Charles William became 8th Viscount and because of change to the Protestant faith after his marriage to Lady Isabella Stanhope, he was created 1st Earl of Sefton in 1771.

From there we visited Mossborough Hall in Rainford. This site had been occupied by 2 earlier houses, with strong Molyneux links by marriages into the Latham family. The Melling branch of the Molyneuxs lived here in the 18th century. This too, had been a strong catholic centre.

From here we took the M6 motorway up to Abbeystead in North Lancashire. The house was indeed a joy to view, even from the outside. We could not enter it, but Mr Banks had kindly opened the inside shutters so we could see into the downstairs rooms from outside. Built about 1888 as a shooting lodge by the Earl of Sefton, the mansion stands on high ground facing south with beautiful landscaped gardens, sheltered by woodlands sweeping down to the Marshaw Wyre which flows through the grounds.

After the death of Hugh William Osbert Molyneux, 7th Earl of Sefton in 1972, his widow, Lady Sefton, sold Abbeystead House to the Duke of Westminster.

At this point we bid two of our Australian friends cheerio- Carol Rohde and Joy McBryde, they had hired a car and continued to tour the U.K. by themselves.

A stop was then made at Wyresdale Church, which is often called “The Shepherds Church” because each window depicts a scene from the Bible, the theme being sheep and shepherds.

The church, which is of very early foundation, was rebuilt in 1773 and renovated in 1853. In 1894, it underwent a thorough restoration including stained glass windows, memorials to the members of the Sefton family. The organ was also installed, stringed instruments having previously been in use, and these are still in the church. The pulpit is delicately carved and is dated 1684.

“Thank you, President Betty Brown for your very detailed coverage of the portion of the reunion which you attended“. Had we had more time we could have visited St. Chad's Church in Kirby, one of the Earl's of Sefton and the countess are buried beneath the western window. Of course the Earls of Sefton overshadowed most other family members, and there were hundreds of junior family members in this area. Many of these attended St. Nicholas in Liverpool. The Molyneux family at Loseley park also had many junior family members, hence the great amount of Mxs in southern England. This family produced Vice Admiral Sir Robert Henry More Molyneux who was very highly decorated for his service in the RN., he was the grandfather of our cousin and good friend UK016, Maj. James more Molyneux who was our host on the first day of the tour. How great it was to again visit James and wife Susan. It is also gratifying to know one of the family homes is in good hands and his son Michael has two sons to carry on the Molyneux name and keep Loseley in the family. Everyone so enjoyed our visit and lunch at Loseley, as well as their warm welcome. It was really James who suggested a family reunion to me in 1985, little did I know at the time it would come to pass. It was not until a year later that I plucked up the courage to try to start the IMFA, and it was you the members who have rallied and made it all possible.

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