Hannah STENSON b. around 1837 at Coleford - niece of John Forester STENSON

[Merve]

I am trying to find out more info on the origins of my ancestor Hannah STENSON born around 1837 at Coleford Gloucestershire (no BMD record). I know from the census data she was living in the household of John Forester STENSON and Elizabeth STENSON (nee STEPHENSON) from 1841 (age 4) to the time of her first marriage in 1862 (age 25). Her relationship is described in the census return as "Niece". I am assuming that as John Forester STENSON's birthplace is given as "Forest of Dean Gloucestershire" she is more likely to be a blood relative of his than of Elizabeth, although I have not ruled out this possibility. I also know that Elizabeth STENSON was the daughter of James STEPHENSON (brother of George STEPHENSON the railway engineer).

I would like to know who her parents were and if possible discover what the circumstances were that caused her to be living with her Aunt and Uncle at such an early age. I do know that her Aunt and Uncle were themselves childless.

[lizdb]

Who does she name as her father on her marriage cert(s) ?

[Merve]

Wow, That reply was quick 

Haven't got a marriage certificate. I was hoping someone may have come across her while researching their own family history. If not, I guess that's the route I will need to go down.

Regards,
Merve.

[ChasH]

Merve,

Have a go at http://www.forest-of-dean.net/ they are really helpful.

Regards

Chas

[Merve]

Hi Chas,

Thanks for that link I'll give it a go.
I read a post on the Northumberland board that said John Forester STENSON was a son of William STENSON - "The father of Coalville" who I understand was a prominent person in the area (there is an entry in Wikipedia for William). As John Forester also married Elizabeth STEPHENSON (the niece of George STEPHENSON - the railway engineer) I was hoping that, as the family was well known, there would have been a significant amount of research already carried out.

Regards,
Merve