Hannah STENSON - niece of John Forester STENSON (General)

by merve, Monday, October 26, 2009, 15:49 (5605 days ago)

Hi Everyone,
I am trying to find out more info on the origins of my ancestor Hannah STENSON born around 1837 at Coleford Gloucestershire (no BMD record). I know from the census data she was living in the household of John Forester STENSON and Elizabeth STENSON (nee STEPHENSON) from 1841 (age 4) to the time of her first marriage in 1862 (age 25). Her relationship is described in the census return as "Niece". I am assuming that as John Forester STENSON's birthplace is given as "Forest of Dean Gloucestershire" she is more likely to be a blood relative of his than of Elizabeth, although I have not ruled out this possibility. I also know that Elizabeth STENSON was a daughter of James STEPHENSON (brother of George STEPHENSON the railway engineer).

I read on another forum that John Forester STENSON was a son of William STENSON - "the father of Coalville" who I understand was a prominent figure in this area (he has an entry in Wikipedia). I have as yet not ordered up any marriage certificates for Hannah as I am hoping that as this was a well-known family, some research will already have been carried out by someone.

I would like to know who Hannah's parents were and if possible discover what the circumstances were that caused her to be living with her Aunt and Uncle at such an early age. I do know that her Aunt and Uncle were themselves childless.

Regards,
Merve