Good day. I am helping my father-in-law with his family tree and have a brick wall that I am hoping someone might be able to help me with regard his Great Grandfather, John William Thomas. Here's what I know
Born circa 1938 (I believe in Liverpool--though family stories say he may have been the Thomas who came from Wales).
Married Margaret Johanna Godwin (d of Arthur Godwin and Agnes McKenzie Reid) November 15 1866 in Edge Hill, Liverpool, Enlgand
Children
John Arthur Godwin--born Jul 27 1869 in Liverpool, died 1912
Helena--born 1871 in Liverpool (her name is questionable as it appears to be Alline in the 1871 census and Helena in the 1891 census), unknown death
Francis Patrick--born 1874 in Liverpool, d Mar 7 1948 in Accrington
Richard--unknown birth and death
John William, 1871 census shows age of 28, but believe this to be incorrect as the 1861 census shows age of 23. Both census show his birth place as Liverpool
John William is not listed in 1881 census, therefore death between April 2, 1871 and April 3, 1881
John William was Brass Moulder (deceased) on Francis Patrick's marriage certificate.
Lived on 50 Prussia Street in 1861, according to Poll Book and Gore Directory of Liverpool 1853 (which lists him as a tinman and braizer).
Now, here is where I need the assist:
1) Father-in-law says that John William was owner of a factory (from the Gore Directory, it would make sense he was a Brass or Metal factory owner). Is there any history about this, anywhere?
2) The big one is his death. Father-in-law says that John William committed suicide, but cause of death was covered up because he was a "well off factory owner". I have come across a few John Thomas in the Death Registry, but can't find a clear one for this one.
What I am hoping, s that someone may have already done the research and can share with me,.
Thanks
Bill