Can anyone help me to trace my wife's 2 great-uncles?
They are William Arthur Whittles born 15th May 1876 in Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire and Ernest Albert Whittles born 12th September 1877 in Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire
Alongside my wife's grandmother Edith Annie Whittles they were raised by their grandparents James and Ann Wheatley in Panton and Hatton, Lincolnshire.
In the early 1880's their mother, Harriet Whittles, "eloped" to Kent then later Essex, with a neighbouring Blacksmith and went on to have a further 10 children.
In 1888 their grandfather died followed by their grandmother in 1894.
In June 1900, I believe it may have been their father William Whittles, who died in Lincoln Prison. He did not appear on the 1881 or 1891 census, and no prison records appear to exist to confirm anything.
We have been unable to trace the brothers in England on the 1901 census nor the 1911 (and only Ernest appears in 1891), and as both their 2 forenames were interchangeable on earlier census, I've tried every combination.
If their was some disgrace attached to their family name, it's possible that they elected to go by new identities.
Any pointers would be appreciated. With many thanks.
Twojags
