Neale1961 Thank you so much for all of that!! WOW I may have some rellies in the States. Will check my DNA matches.
I wonder was the idea of James Whitaker to not actually desert Matty as her father stated OR was he going to the US to better his financil situation. I'm trying to give him the benefit of the doubt.
With the 1861 Census for Matty seems a bit confusing??/Odd.
Was she still in touch with him? OR

?
Is this Matty in 1861 at Watkinson Court, Habergham Eaves?
Matty WHITAKER 58 Mar (Manager's wife at Paint works) Tatham
Susan 35 Barrow
Martha 26 Burnley
Elizabeth 24
Eliza 19

? 17
Mary JACKSON 37 (dau) Love Clough
Alfred 8 (gr son) Burnley
Martha 6 (gr dau)
William 3 (gr son)
I've found Mary Whitakers marriage as well. I've compiled a very big family group sheet thanks to everyone here. Many thanks Dianna
I have not found any evidence of James WHITAKERS death as yet in America