Hi
Welcome to Rootschat!
Sounds like you're in for an interesting time!
There are some good posts about gyopsies on here, and some links to some good resources. You can go to search Rootschat and search for gypsy or whatever you think.
~I don't know this family, but I have enjoyed following athe family of a friend who had a similar story. We did prove they were gypsies.
We tried various things. For example:
Looking at baptisms, at the father's occupation. Look for potter, basket maker, besom maker, tinman, earthernware dealer, horse dea;ler, and similar, and obviously hawker, traveller etc. These may suggest travellers but not necessarily gypsies.
Look at censuses, and camping behind hedge, or similar may come up!
Look for any gypsies on censuse. They had favourite places, so keep checking them.
Get to know the surnames of the gypsies and travellers in the area. If you find one you may find the others.
I'm sure some of the expert sites will help you but I'll come on at a civilised hour for this country and tell you how our story ended.
Best wishes
Emms