http://www.forum.forest-of-dean.net/index.php?id=14451

Seems like chicken and egg question !

He may have been in the Asylum and also had debts, I'd be surprised if the reason for admission was solely debt.

This was also the age before the NHS and Social care, so its quite possible that bills were being levied for his care.

Trying to find info on John & Hannah Harper.

John died sometime before 1841.

On 1841 census Hannah & youngest son James were living at Scatterford Farm, Newland.

James married Elizabeth Moon & in 1851 they were living at the farm with their children - Henry Paglar, Maria & Hannah

1852-3 Slater's Directory - James Harper, Newland, farmer

1856 Post Office Directory - Mrs Elizabeth Harper, farmer, Scatterford Farm.

What happened to James? He did not die at this time as I have letters from his son, in America, dated 1870s & 80s with references to his father. Also mentions Gloucester Asylum & a debt.

Would someone have been admitted to an asylum because they owed money?

Any help appreciated.