Any idea what Midge could be short for?

[miriamkinga]

I have come across a MIDGE GOATER on the 1881 census for Newmarket.

She is listed as born 1860 in Littleton, Hampshire and is a cousin of the head of the family JAMES GOATER born 1839 Stockbridge, Hampshire.

I have tried to trace her forwards and backwards with no success.

Any thoughts as to what Midge could be short for would be really appreciated.

Many thanks

Best wishes

Maria

[Gadget]

Nowadays it can be short for Michelle but in those days, I'd say it was Margaret


Gadget

[aghadowey]

Are you sure it isn't Madge (which is a nickname for Margaret)?

[miriamkinga]

Thanks for your replies.

Just checked the image and its definitely written as "Midge". Unfortunately if it is short for Margaret - I can't find one who fits!

Sometimes this is a very frustrating hobby!

Thanks again

Best wishes

Maria

[greenrig]

"Midge" in modern usage is backslang for Jim.    "JIM" becomes "MIJ".
Doesn't help with a female though.....

At http://www.behindthename.com/name/midge it is listed as a variant of "Madge" which is a diminutive of Margaret.

[miriamkinga]

Thanks Greenrig - will keep looking for an elusive "Margaret".

Best wishes

Maria

[Gadget]

Outside chance ~

There is a birth registration for an Emma Goater, June q, 1859, Winchester vol 2c p 86


Littleton is in the Winchester RD.


Gadget

added - forget that - I've found her with her parents on the 1881 

[Gadget]

An interesting family of Goaters on the 1861 in Littleton.  Henry, aged 27, was b. Stockbridge and was a horse trainer.
There is a daughter, Kate, aged 2, b. Littleton  (on Freebmd as Katie, Sept q 1859 , Winchester 2c 81)

RG9/691/56/ 1


Nearest I can find to a birth in circa 1860 in Littleton


Gadget

[greenrig]

This (US) site claims that Midge can be a diminutive of "Michelle".
Thus a feminised version of "Michael".   Personally, I'm not convinced.

http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Midge