Did my ancestor run off to France?

[Ashlee]

A rumour has been passed down through my family that my ancestor Francis Virgo Minchin (born 18/09/1921 in Westminster, London) ran off to France with his sons (except one that was disabled) with funds he had embezzled from his place of work. This was after he was discovered having an affair with a married woman. Is there any way I can prove this? I tried to find emigration records, but no such luck, and I can't find his death, I would appreciate any help.

[nanny jan]

Hi,

Born in 1921 there's a chance that he is still alive.


Nanny Jan

[CaroleW]

(born 18/09/1921 in Westminster, London)

I think you mean 1821 - baptism 8.9.1822 parents William & Catherine

[Ashlee]

Yes, sorry, I typed it wrong.

[ShaunJ]

There are press reports concerning court proceedings against him in May 1861 for embezzlement of upwards of £1,000 from the St Katharine's Dock Company where he had been senior clerk on a salary of £200.  He was bailed and failed to surrender for his next court appearance.

[Ashlee]

Hi, I had a look around and I can't find the press report. Where did you find it?

[ShaunJ]

You'll need access to the Gale/BL 19th century newspaper database, the Times Digital Archive (you might get both of those via membership of your local library or an educational institution) and/or the British Newspaper Archive which is a subscription service

[Ashlee]

Thank you so much, I will purchase it straight away.

[ShaunJ]

Note that one of the reports has the name as James Virgo Minchin