RootsChat.Com

England (Counties as in 1851-1901) => England => Durham => Topic started by: MarkEwen on Monday 27 April 09 12:00 BST (UK)

Title: James Ewen - Wizard
Post by: MarkEwen on Monday 27 April 09 12:00 BST (UK)

I'm researching our family tree and have got back to James Ewen b. 1832 / 1831 in coldstream. I have come across a record of him on the 1861 census living in Durham with wife Sarah. His occupation is listed as Wizard(?!?!). Just wondered in anyone could shed any light on what Wizard refers to? Back in 1861 was this an official job title?!?!? or was one of my distant relatives simply having a bit of fun with the person carrying out the census!!

Any help appreciated.

Rgds
Mark

Title: Re: James Ewen - Wizard
Post by: JenB on Monday 27 April 09 12:11 BST (UK)

There seems to be another word in front of wizard, which looks a bit like 'border'??

I see that in subsequent censuses he was a tailor.

Most mysterious  ;D

Title: Re: James Ewen - Wizard
Post by: JosiahS on Monday 27 April 09 12:15 BST (UK)

Hi Mark

What is odd is that the word border is in a different hand as though it had been added later as an explanation.  Very curious!

Ashley