Hi everyone!
I am researching an ancestor called Thomas Sanders (sometimes spelt Saunders), who was born in Leicester, Leicestershire approximately 1858. He married Amelia Burbidge in 1882 in Leicester and they had five children together.
However, something that has confused me with finding their details is that on census records, they use the surname Cox. In 1891, they are called Thomas Cox and Amelia Cox (as are their children), and the same happens in 1901 (although they are also living with Amelia's mother, Elizabeth Burbidge). In 1911, they are called Thomas Sanders Cox and Amelia Sanders Cox.
In the records on the electoral register, they use the surname Cox as well.
However, in civil registration records - as far as I can see - they use the name Sanders (sometimes spelt Saunders). In their civil marriage record, it shows a marriage between Thomas Cox and Amelia Burbidge. I also believe that Amelia died in 1927 (although this is listed under Saunders), and that Thomas died in either 1926 or 1934 (again, under Sanders). Additionally, all of their five children are registered under the Sanders/Saunders name.
I've found a few parish marriage records for their children as well. On some of these records, their father is listed as Thomas Sanders and in others, he's listed as Henry Thomas Sanders (although I can see no other evidence of him being called Henry Thomas). His occupation always relates to shoes.
Although I've been able to trace back to Amelia's parents, I am completely stumped with finding Thomas Sanders/Saunders/Cox's parents and life before his marriage. I also have no idea why he's called himself Cox - I've considered perhaps whether it's his mother's maiden name, but this doesn't seem to help with figuring out who his parents are.
Is anyone able to help at all? Thanks in advance
