Mariner - Sailing Liverpool to USA

[ALAMO2008]

MY Great Granddad William Henry Chapman born 1857 is shown on his 1881 Marriage Cert as a Mariner, Family legend is that shortly after his marriage, he went To America and returned claiming to now be an American ?   Any ideas how I can trace his ships as crew member ?  or anything to confirm this story ?

[Lisa in California]

I am not American, nor do I have American ancestors, but according to one website, during 1790-1906:
http://www.rootschat.com/links/019gs/
One had to be a resident in America for 5 years and apparently be a one year resident in the state before becoming a citizen.

After a quick look, I don't see him on immigration lists.  Perhaps someone else may find him though.  When was he next spotted in the UK (after his time spent in America), please (so that we can narrow down his immigration dates)?

[ALAMO2008]

1884 His first child Harry was born and Birth Cert still shows Father as Mariner, but when second child in 1888 Daughter Emma born Father shown as Dock Labourer. So period may be 1880 to 1888 the 4 year gap between children may also be a clue ?  Thanks for your input and help.

[jorose]

Do you know where William was born?

While there was no national registration system for merchant seamen at this time, there are some crew lists available:
http://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk
 - search on his surname + birthplace as he may be listed under initials
 - limit results returned under "collection" to "BT" = board of trade, if required.

[ALAMO2008]

William Henry Chapman born 18th June 1857 at 153 Haigh Street Everton, Liverpool. Father Henry (Tinsmith) Mother Emma formerly Cross

Thanks for link and your input