Genealogy Chat

My ancestor Robert Chowns was 'removed and conveyed' with his wife and children from Stoke Poges, where he had moved, to Aston Rowant, in Oxfordshire, where he was born. Aston Rowant took the case to court and the magistrates decided, after hearing Robert's evidence about why he had moved to Stoke P. and how he paid rent and rates, that he and his family could stay there. I found his name on a2a.org and went to the Bucks records office in Aylesbury where I was able to read the court judgement and Robert's evidence, from 1819. I know more about him than many more recent relatives!

many thanks for replying Karen, regards Sally

They were probably removed because of the Poor Law - you can wikipedia that. There was much variation in the application of the law and there was a tendency for the destitute to migrate towards the more generous parishes, usually situated in the towns. This led to the Settlement Act 1662 which allowed relief only to established residents of a parish - mainly through birth, marriage and apprenticeship. A pauper applicant had to prove a 'settlement'.If they could not, they were removed to the next parish that was nearest to the place of their birth, or where they might prove some connection.

Hi all, just found some information on ancestors of mine that says they were removed from the village, does anyone know what reasons could be for that? Many thanks Sally