Robert Cocking 1776 (or 7) - 1837

[antman111]

I am looking for information on Robert Cocking, the experimental parachutist who fell to his death at Lee, Kent, on 24 July 1837. A great deal has been written about his death, but little is known about his life.

Specifically, I would welcome any information regarding his birth and/or parentage.

JE Hodgson in his book, 'The History of Aeronautics in Great Britain' (OUP, 1924) wrote that he "was the son of an Irish clergyman" - but did not footnote this claim.

Thanks in anticipation.

[myluck!]

This may be unconnected but in light of the unusual name
The Rector of the CoI Church in Raheny (in North Dublin) from 1735 to 1774 was a Rev Ralph COCKING LINK

He was married to a lady named Ann JACKSON d/o Thomas from Creekstown, Co. Meath LINK to reference

Name also shown as COCKIN and COCKYN

[Bookbox]

Duplicate thread
http://www.rootschat.com/forum/index.php?topic=772775.msg6257843

[antman111]

Rev Ralph Cocking is possibly a relative, but his death in 1774 rather precludes him from being Robert C's father - tho admittedly, this assumes Robert's stated age at the time of his death (61, sometimes 62) is accurate. Thank you for the input.