Hi Christopher: (04/02/09)
Thank you for your reply and associated Web links. The earliest record I have of Great-grandfather John Charles (Carl) Johnson is of his marriage certificate dated 13 March, 1882. He is described as a "Steward on merchant ship" . The next record is the birth certificate of his firstborn (a daughter) dated 17 October, 1883. He is described as a "Ship’s steward". His second child, also a daughter, was born 21 March, 1885. Her birth certificate describes him as a "Ship’s steward". The last record is a Parish Record of his third daughter, baptised on 1 July, 1887. He is described as a "Ship’s steward". The only census information I have is that of 1891, which does not list him, and 1901 that indicates his wife had re-married. This may mean he had either died (lost at sea?) or divorced his wife.
It seems he served on merchant ships, but I haven’t found any likely ship’s manifests (crew lists). Since the principal port near Weston in Gordano, Somerset, was Bristol, he may have embarked/disembarked there.
His Scandinavian roots (either Norway or Denmark - Norway being favoured and the port of Arendal in particular) are also elusive. I contacted the Norwegian genealogical society, but had limited success.
Any ideas or suggestions are welcome. Thanks in advance.
BarryJohn