Hi everybody,
In 1899 John died in Barrowford, Lancashire aged 73. According to the 1891 census he was an army pensioner aged 64. A copy of his death certificate confirms this information so far. In 1881 census he was 54. So far so good. All makes sense. I am trying to connect him to my ancestor who I believe was his half sister, Mary Ann Harris nee Gibbins. In 1881 he is listed as brother-in-law to Mary Ann's husband. I just seem to be missing the final piece of the puzzle.
I believe Mary Ann Gibbins was born to Ann Gibbins c 1824 who later married Thomas Dawson in 1826. From the union of Thomas and Ann were several children. One son was William born c 1833 who married Harriet who was registered as sister in law and witness at the death of John in 1899. In Barrowford, Lancashire.
Unfortunately, I can only find the christening of John Dawson to Thomas and Ann in 1836 in Corby. Even though he was born 1826. Maybe he was christened when he was 10 who knows or the 1836 should have read 1826?
?
Between 1851 and 1861 he was serving in the East Indies after joining up in 1845.
Hopefully the 1841 or 51 census for Thomas Dawson and Ann will confirm their children. William at least. I would hope for John and Mary to be there to but I don;t believe they are.
In 1871 he could be anywhere between Castle Bytham and Barnoldswick or Nelson in Lancashire.
I have William and Harriet in 1891 and 1901.
If I could find John in 1841 with Thomas and Ann Dawson and Mary Ann Gibbins the puzzle will be solved. I feel as though I have enough evidence to prove the connection but I would love absolute proof, well as far as it can go.
Any help with 1841 or 1871 would be amazing.
Thank you
Very best regards
Amanda (who has a slight headache after all that)
