Henry Smith born 1820 Maldon - how can I find out about him and his parents?

[Rosemary.uk]

I'm trying to find details of the parents of Henry Smith who was born in Maldon, Essex in about 1820.  The only information I have is that he had siblings Mary and John and his father may have been James Smith, a currier.
He married Sophia Hunsdon  in 1841 at St. Luke, Old Street.  Surely this church is in London.  Any idea why anyone would marry there when they lived in Essex?
I have caught up with them in the 1841 census living at High Street, Havering atte Bower Liberty, Essex and later they move  to 132 Union Street, St Saviour Southwark.
Sophia was born about 1820 in Romford, her parents were John and Louisa Hunsdon.
I don't know  when they died.
I would love to trace my ancesters back further but I have hit a dead end.  Any help or suggestions would be gratefully received.  Many thanks

[JJen]

Hi,

You could purchase the marriage cert for Henry and Sophia in the hope that Henry's father's name and occupation is recorded on the cert. Equally the witnesses may hold some clues.

JJ

[olleym]

Have you found Henry in the 1851 census?
This would confirm that he wa born in Maldon.
It was not unusual to move to London at that time,but considereing how common is the surname, I would firstly confirm that he is the Maldon Henry Smith.

Mark

[Rosemary.uk]

Hi! Thanks for getting in touch.  I've confirmed details in the 1851 census and the following ones and I'm positive it is my Henry living in Maldon.  It is a real pain he is a Smith but I suppose I should be grateful I've gone back this far!

I've details of Henry's and Sophia's marriage which is where I got the parent's name from.  The only other details were the wittnesses were Eliza Hunsdon and Joaanne P?

[Lily M]

The marriage cert shows that although Henry was living in Romford, Essex, Sophia gives her address at the time as President Street.  Very close to the church where they married.

I think the other witness is James Smith.

[Rosemary.uk]

Wow you are clever and quick! Thanks for that. I must look up President Street, I didn't realise she was there. 

[Lily M]

Unfortunately, no sign of any Hunsdons living in President Street in 1841

[Rosemary.uk]

In the 1841 census Sophia is living in High Street, Havering atte Bower Liberty with her Mother and sisters. Her father isn,t mentioned so presume he had passed away. Maybe she was in service in London.

[cep]

Baptism at Maldon, St Peters    D/P 201/1/11   2 of 4

May 18, 1820

Henry, son of John & Susanna Smith,    he Barge Man


Regards   CP