Hi Fionah, still a mystery to me. I am of the opinion that perhaps Isabella may not have had any children

As William McClellan appeared in 1861 census living at 22 Peach Street Liverpool age ? 6 He vanished. In 1871 after Isabella married Joseph Birch William Colebeck age 15 Shop Boy born Liverpool appears. He is living with Joseph Birch 47 Car Driver born York and Isabella Birch 44 born Whitehaven.
Then when William Coldbeck ( Porter )age 23 bachelor marries Sarah Lancaster age 24 Spinster 23/10/1876
Living at St Andrew Street Liverpool His father`s name is not entered on marriage certificate.
William & Sarah had X3 children all born in the workhouse Liverpool. William was never entered in any census records after marriage. He is mentioned in birth records of his children. In 1891 Sarah and children living in Vine Street Liverpool. Sarah transcribed as married but head of household. Isabella was never mentioned with any children of her own which was unual as women tendered to have large families. After death or Peter McClelland and his daughter Margaret did Isabella adopt? William giving him her surname. If so I am Mrs McClellan and not Mrs Colbeck

I have sent off for numerous bmd certs for William McClellan & William Colbeck/Colebeck/Coldbeck etc. to no avail. What happened to William I wonder.

Victoria