Peter

Have you traced the marriage of William BARBER to Elizabeth ? born Torington, Devon c1811 - the marriage certificate would have his father's name if it took place September Qtr 1837 onwards , or at least witness names pre September 1837

The Gloucestershire Marriage Index may help

Their first born William (age 4) c1837 on the 1841 census - age 13 c1838 on the 1851 census, born Bristol.

There is a 'lodger' with William and Elizabeth (1841) Sarah COWER? age 70

Probably a 'red herring' but .....

On the 1851 census, for Junction Street, Coventry, there is a Joseph BARBER age 57 (watch case springer) born Coventry, and Hannah his wife age 58, British Subject, born Valencis....... France