Mr. GODLEY declared to be William Thomas born 1822, from Lindfield, Sussex, England. In 1852 he married other side of the world. Declared both parents in England were dead: father Thomas GODLEY mother Lucy SKINNER. But no proof found.
An experienced researcher found out the closest:
Thomas GODLEY born to Thomas & Mary GODLEY in 1818.
Note: Maybe WT GODLEY forgot his actual birth year or took a few yrs off at marriage. Maybe baptized as Thomas but known as William Thomas to distinguish him from his father. His statement that parents were dead in 1852 (or long before), can explain he didn’t know exact details, like his mothers official name.
Couple Thomas GODLEY & Mary SKINNER married in Isfield 14 Sep 1812.
Thomas & Mary Godley children baptized in Lindfield:
Lucy 5 March 1815 / Thomas 3 May 1818 / Barnett 26 Nov 1820
1841 census a Thomas GODLEY is living in Lindfield with a family of 4 girls called Packham. Aged 1-20 at Upper or Littch (Little?) Plumerden Farm. Thomas is not there in 1851, some of the girls are.
Note: If this was him, it might explain Thomas was lodging in 1841 and left the country for a new life before 1851. Of course all speculative.
From sources via different continents, the following facts about WT GODLEY:
- He had a sister named Lucy GODLEY, married to John …. (unknown), they lived in Sussex.
- Annie LISTER a cousin from Sussex. Annie had a sister or daughter: Mary LISTER.
- William & Emma GATES from Brighton, Sussex, somehow related or very good friends.
- One of WT’s children died young, one of the baptismal names Barnet
About descendants WT GODLEY: some info is known, but came to a standstill.
Please help to find out more about WT GODLEY / T GODLEY and ancestors.
Maybe in connection via other names mentioned above.