Hi Westby,
Reading through this thread with interest, and saw your question about Edward Deacon Whiffen b 1835, one of the 8 children of Jemima & Benjamin (as listed on the 1841/1851 Census). This might be him - I note your Edward had a brother named George:
On 18 June 1894 Committed by Judge's Order of Alameda County Court to Mendocino State Hospital
Edward Whiffen, age 58, single, native of England, Pile Driver.
Resident of California 43 years and prior to that, resident of England.
Committed by Judge's Order of Alexander County Court to Mendocino State Hospital
Suffering Insomnia, Acute Mania
Never previously in an Asylum or has Insane relatives.
Classed as Destructive
Not classed as Sucidal, Homicidal, Incendiary, Filthy
Does not have Head Injury or Epilepsy
Moderate Alcohol, but no Narcotics
History:
Evidence of the presence of insanity. Waeks (sic) and talks most of the night. Thinks he hears and sees spirits. Carries a pistol for self protection. Chases people and threatens to kill them. Thinks he was born before Christ and that he will live to be one hundred and ninety years old.
Address: George Whiffen, Australia
Condition on Admission
Died: 30 Dec 1897
I can't find any US Census record though....
Cheers
AMBLY
