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I have lots of info, but where do I turn now?

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Paul

Paul Report 26 Feb 2004 20:45

I am trying to find my GGrandfather, I have lots of information, but this is the first time I have got stuck! On my grandfather's birth cert. his father was William Williams (foreman shunter on railway, Bristol 1917). However, on my Gfather's marriage cert (1941) his father was Thomas Williams(deceased). I have found the right William Williams on the 1901 census (right age ,wife and childrens names, and occupation)., but he said he was born in Bristol, whereas family word of mouth says he came from Kingston, Jamaica! On his marriage cert. (1895) his father is Robert Williams, seaman. The main problem I have is the very common name. Does anyone have any tips for narrowing down my search. Are there searchable electoral registers because I know some of the adddresses he lived in, or would the railway have any records? Any help would be appreciated. Paul

Geoff

Geoff Report 26 Feb 2004 22:59

Ancestry (subscription) has Great Western Railway employees http://www.ancestry.*co.uk/search/rectype/inddbs/4953.htm (remove *). However, Bristol was also "inhabited" by the Midland Railway.

Mystified

Mystified Report 27 Feb 2004 08:31

Only thing I can suggest is if you have Williams age on 1901 then try searching for his birth around that time in the GRO records. I know it is a big search. Re the Thomas perhaps he changed his name 'verbally' and it just continued? Re his birth place, don't always believe what the family tell you even thought they may believe it. Sorry best I can do