In the 1841 census my ancestor Samuel Hughes (Tin Worker) was living at Althorp House, Lydney along with numerous others including a farmer and a woman of independant means. Does anyone have any information on this house, was it some sort of lodging house? A diverse group of people seemed to live there. I know later Watts owned it.

Just been having a Google!

In 1861 it was the residence of Mr David Davies (Lessee of the Hopwell Mine)

In 1870 CHALK Mary (Mrs.) & Mary (Miss), ladies' boarding school, Althorpe house

When I worked for Watts Of Lydney Ltd in the early to mid 90s it was the head office. it consisted of the main reception, board Room and offices for the accountants and MDs.
Staff parking was around the back.

Pete

Children's Employment Commission Report of 1842 for Coal Mines and Associated Works in the Forest of Dean has Mr David Davies (Lessee Hopwell Mine) - listed as living at Althrope House, Lydney.

On Google Books also, there are extracts from the Book, Custom, Work and Market Capitalism by Chris Fisher - all about the Colliers of the Forest of Dean.

I worked there for a few years, when Watts factors rented it out.I was told it was used by a coal owner, welshman. I think there used to be a lot of money or deeds as there was a kind of cellar below, within the building which had a small vault there with iron bars and possibly a safe to protect valuables.

Mary Chalk nee keeling born in bath somerset was the sister of george baker keeling and ran a private boarding school at althorp house.