Although we don’t know precisely when the house at 10 Wilmslow Road was acquired to become their family home, it’s pretty clear that Louisa and Eduard, even before their marriage in 1877, were thinking of a future with many children and serving staff. Eduard’s business was doing very well so there was money.

The house they bought was four stories, with plenty of bedrooms for children and servants. It lacked indoor plumbing, and although later an indoor lavatory was added, it was on the third floor of the house.

Ultimately 10 Wilmslow had 13 residents, Eduard, Louisa, eight children, a housemaid, cook and Lizzie who ruled the Nursery and look after the children from birth until they left home. As well there was an additional bedroom for guests, typically MacLaren cousins or the West nephews.

The house no longer exists; it and the church beside it having been torn down and replaced by a petrol station and stores.