Research Forum

First of all, looking at the 1851 census, I think that Grace's occupation was entered as "Pauper late servant" meaning that she was now in receipt of support but had perviously been a servant.  I love the imaginative way in which you had interepreted it!

I have taken a look at the Overseers' Accounts for Banwell but unfortunately they do not cover the period when you think that John might have emigrated.  By the 1850s the Poor Law was not totally in the hands of the parishes but was administered by the Axbridge Poor Law Union. and had been since 1834.

You are correct in that some parishes found it cheaper to support emigration than face the cost of  life-long support for some of their parishioners and Banwell was one parish which did do this.

If you have not already done so, take a look at the pages of Banwell History which does contain a link to Roy Rice who may well be able to help more information about the HOWELL family.

Hello Pat

Thanks so much for your reply and help with understanding the record. Also the link to Banwell History. Yes, I had looked at before. What wonderful work.

Sorry for the delayed response. For some reason I didn't 'pick up' on your response, and I've just found it whilst doing final ppreparations for our trip to the UK next week.

I'm very much looking forward to our couple of days in Somerset and to visiting the Portishead library next Wednesday.

Kind regards

Kerrie