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thanks - that's a great idea.

Bastardy bond can be a terrific resource, if you can actually find one for an illegitmate child. The overseers/churchwardens of the parish did not want to be financially responsible for the upkeep of a single mother and child, so they would do everything they could to try to find out the name of the father of the child, and then press upon him for the child's upkeep. This would involved hauling the mum up before the church, and getting her to name the father (and perhaps his last residence). Often (sadly) this was carried out while the mother was actually in labour (when she may be more likely to be truthful and name the father).  In the example I've given below, the midwife was called in to give a statement.

If you have a look at the Seax catalogue and type in bastardy bonds, you will see there are heaps there. They should be filed in with the particular parish's records, particularly the poor law records.

For an example have a look here -http://seax.essexcc.gov.uk/result_details.aspx?ThisRecordsOffSet=1&id=288094

This one is also a good example -
http://seax.essexcc.gov.uk/result_details.aspx?ThisRecordsOffSet=2&id=231522

Thanks NannyJ,

Can you please tell me the full date of Thomas (baseborn to Lucy)'s baptism in 1804?

Also, are any further details given about Lucy's baptism? Occupation of William the father, or residence etc?

I wonder if there may be a bastardy bond for Lucy's illegitimate son?

Thanks again

Michelle

NannyJ, I can't thank you enough! You have blasted through one of my brick walls! Thank you so much for all your help. One thing - you didn't mention Mary Stearns baptism date (just her siblings).  I know this is a big ask, but is it possible to get a digital copy of any of these records? Especially the marriage of Thomas & Mary Stearns, and the baptism of Isaiah?

Any other info you can find on the Mead and Stearns family would be much appreciated.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! cheers, Michelle