French connection?

[Seashell_54]

Hi - my Davies family - father Joseph, born 1806 in Tredegar, mother Ann b. abt 1803 in Newcastle, and several children (Elizabeth, John, Joseph, Gwenllian, Sarah)  lived in Bedwellty for several of the censuses - but two of the children (Elizabeth and John) were born in France in the late 1820's.
In looking at the censuses it looks like quite a few people from Monmouthshire were born in France around that time - late 1820's, early 1830's.
Does anyone have any idea why Welsh people would have been in France particularly at that time?
Any input appreciated - thanks!
Debbie

[c w]

I am not sure if my reply will be an hinderance or help to you, but here goes!

In Bedwellty there is a village called Fleur-de-lys which I believe was settled by Huguenots in the 18th century - please do not take this as fact as I am not sure where I picked up this information. However, it might give you something to look up.

With regards to the early census etc. it is in the area of the villages of Trelyn and Pontaberpengam (in 1841 at least!)

I hope this will be of some help to you.

Caroline