Terms used to describe the work people did.

[mike175]

He wasn't necessarily a gold-digger. There may have been a genuine relationship. Have you considered that they might have had an illicit relationship in earlier times? Sarah herself may have previously married into money. The permutations are endless, but there could be an interesting story there. I would definitely be exploring further if it was my ancestor.

Mike.

[neverendingstory]

Thanks Mike, it has fascinated me for several years; I'll keep looking - so many interesting stories in all of our backgrounds

[Marmalady]

There was no official definition of "Gentleman" -- anyone could call themselves that

But it generally meant that one did not have to work for a living -- so if he amassed enough wealth either by inheritance, marriage or savings to not have to work, then he could easily call himself gentleman, no matter what his previous status in life -- as reference my second hand clothes dealer  mentioned in my earlier post

[stanmapstone]

There was no official definition of "Gentleman" -- anyone could call themselves that

In a case in 1862 Mr. Justice Willes stated that: A gentleman is described in law as a person who has no occupation

Stan

[neverendingstory]

I guess what I'm really asking is does the term 'servant' apply to an occupation that is different to the way we think about the role today?
N.

[KGarrad]

You mean like a Civil Servant, perhaps?!

[Colin Cruddace]

It would be better to bear in mind who provided the information. In large estates the census entries would probably be given by the estate owner's wife or a senior servant (butler), so 'servant' is probably correct. For a death certificate any description could be given without challenge.

Colin

[pharmaT]

Well I would guess that anyone who worked for an estate would be a servant. Although it would be helpful to know what kind as there would be a big difference in status between the kitchen assistant and estate manager.

[neverendingstory]

It would be better to bear in mind who provided the information. In large estates the census entries would probably be given by the estate owner's wife or a senior servant (butler), so 'servant' is probably correct. For a death certificate any description could be given without challenge.

Colin

I was looking up the roles males could have inside a household and apart from a butler which one would think would be identified, there was 'footman'. Their job description called for them to be tall, young and good looking and leads me to think that maybe Thomas, who was ageing, was looking for an easy target to marry. I don't want to unnecessarily malign him however, hence the question.
N.