Would most Catholic families have kept a family bible?

[aghadowey]

As I said earlier, my Aunt Florence's Irish family had a Bible (filled with details now lost).

And here's one dated 1865-
http://www.windmillministries.org/Antique-Family-Bible-Store-905.htm

[Dulaigh]

Deer 243 you are bang on " general labourers would NOT READ and most had little English language in the early 1800's. They would have travelled to areas where more of their ilk were ensconced. Both USA and UK. All their traditions and knowledge were carried in memory and folklore. They were catholic mostly and would have recited their necessary prayers etc.

[Deer243]

That's really helpful, thanks for all the info.