Hi Freda your Thomas is not a connection of mine. Going backwards this mans family can be seen in the 1901 to the 1861 census (except 1871).
1901 living in Somerton born 1849, wife Louisa, son Samuel and daughter Alice. Thomas is a retired postman
In 1891 living in Somerton, wife Louisa, daughter Alice, son Charles. Thomas is a Rural Postman
You probably know them in 1881.
In 1861 unmarried Thomas is at home with his parents in Somerton this household has Charles born 1819, Montacute, employed as a carrier, wife Laura born 1821 Bristol, daughter Caroline born 1856, daughter Elizabeth born 1860, daughter Mary born 1859, daughter Prudence born 1847, son Robert born 1852, son Samuel born 1843 and Thomas born 1849. On this census Thomas is said to have been born in Somerton
The nearest I have is Charles born 1807
Good luck
David from Perth West Oz