You have been very busy - and great work! Interesting about Thomas being a butcher. He was a farmer when he came to Victoria but on death certificate in 1902 occupation butcher. In Aust. 44 years, so that would be c. 1858, so assume Thomas will not be on 1861 census, nor brother Matthew, nor John, who it appears came about the same time, possibly together, and I assumethey were first three in family to emigrate. A William and Sarah Pearson are listed as coming on the Tudor in 1864. A family letter says that Sarah came to cook for her brothers!
Interesting that Sarah is not listed underneath as a scholar, just gardeners daughter and no occupation. What do you think?
1861 RG09/3962/43/12
Askham
John Pearson 60 gardener born Morland Westmorland
Mary wife 51 gardener's wife
Sarah 13 gardener's daughter
James 11 scholar
Jane 9 scholar
Mary 7 granddaughter scholar boarder
Mary and children born Askham
Looking at James' children, 1891, I assume Francis is Fannie, and Mary, much younger than the others and possibly James' favourite, is very likely Mamie referred to in letters. There dont appear to be any other children? These are all mentioned in 2 letters. When James died in 1919, he owned? a farm, and the family said they were going to keep it going. Can we see what the census says in 1911 - he is still a domestic gardener in 1901 I see and wonder if son James has gone to America yet?
Aunt Mary and Pollie also mentioned in these letters. If you have time, I would really appreciate following Mary (Lacklison) after the 1891 census. I see she has a daughter Mary then aged 4, and is it possible that this Mary could be Pollie. Sarah (Australia) had eldest daughter Mary who was called Pollie. When the rels visited in 1929, that would make this Mary approx. 42 - photo looked about 50, but then women looked older then? If it is her, she didn't marry as name still Pearson and accompanying her mother?
Also Nellie Pearson, any clues there?
Terrific information from you Crissane and really appreciated. Thanks again. Lyn
