I found the child on a census record as Grandson. With the same name, I assumed it was the off-spring of a son and never considered illegitimate. Some time ago, an archives service member of staff suggested, it was accepted for women back then to have children before marriage, as it showed they were capable. At present, I have not found any marriage, but she is on the vey edge of my family tree. I am more surprised I have not found one closer to home. The main issue is chapel, as many registers are lost.
One woman was referred to as an imbecile, though she was in the asylum and wanting to leave. At 80 years old, these days it may be called dementia and a care home. Many of the males, through several generations were in court all of the time for drinking, fighting and then fined or sent to jail. Even the children were in court for trivial matters. The rough working class seemed to be picked on. Although I hardly knew my grandfather, I was aware he was a drinker and fighter. But I did not realise how deep and far it spread throughout the family.
I have been collecting newspaper articles. Some are pitiful, others funny and occasionally one lifts the spirits of humanity. Within them, funerals were the most informative as they list all present, with their relationship to the deceased. I found people through their husband's name and a couple who were living miles away, who I probably would never have found.
It is nice to know my family are not the only rogues.
I don't know how I turned out so normal.
