Jenn I find that the most difficult research is attempting to validate family stories. After receiving two not very pleasant pm's some time ago from a chatter who didn't agree with the facts I had found, I no longer post all that I find, just point the person in hopefully, the right direction to find the information for themselves.
Glamis I will leave it you to you pursue the history of the family of Dr Thomas BLACK. The sons according to the Will were well set up in New Zealand which is the reason they get less than the others. Have you read all the links and downloaded Dr BLACK's Will?
My ancestors who lived in East St Kilda, were involved with All Saints [Church of England]Anglican Church, albeit it some time after the establishment, so have quite a lot of information on file.
All Saints Church, in East St. Kilda, owes its existence to the Rev John Herbert Gregory, who started the movement for the erection of the church in the latter end of 1857. The land, on which the church stands, had then been reserved as a Church of England site for building purposes by the Government. The first trustees of the land were Dr Thomas Black [of Cintra], Sir George Stephen, Alexander George Dumas, John Dudley, and W. Cann. Designs for the church were invited, and two plans were sent in.
Perhaps you can search for more information/facts to confirm you mother's story. I think it is a good idea to do all the basic research into the bdm's, electoral rolls, Wills, Parish records etc. and then try to put the 'meat on the bones'.
Cheers
Cando