Have had an enforced absence from research but now trying to get on the trail again.
My previous thoughts would now appear to be wide of the mark. The better bet for W. Mate (I'm risking the assumption that this is William) is one born in 1786...This WM is recorded in the 1841 census, where he is described as a Mariner.
My chief pursuit (featuring in other related enquiries on Rootschat) is in respect of Charles Mate, printer in Dover, who also spent time at sea before engaging in theatrical management and in printing. His son, another Charles, unfortunately met his death whilst loading a ship.
But the juxtaposition of occupations may suggest an extended familial connection. W. Mate is not a son of the elder Charles...Maybe somebody can offer clues viz close or distant family. I have been unable to pin down W. Mate in any other way so far - except that he presented two ballads composed by himself at the theatres in Dover and Deal, both ballads featuring Napoleon (Moscow in 1812 and Leipsic in 1813). Nothing has emerged in the history of these theatres - lamentably served by historians - during the time of the Mate complex. Nor have Kent archives (online) or the university been of help.
I'm left with the Napoleonic dates that fall easily enough into the time-scale suggested by the life-span of W. Mate as noted above; but it is all pretty vague so far.
I apologise for going on at length - but would be grateful for any guidance.
roly
