Can anyone help with my Smiths in Nairn, please!.....

jen wilson · Post by **jen wilson** » Fri Mar 03, 2006 4:41 pm

Hello,

I have asked about this family before but not for some time, so I thought it might be worth another try.

I am looking for William Smith in Nairn, before 1841. In that year's census, his widow, some of his offspring and his mother in law were living in Douglas Vennal, Nairn. The widow, Margaret Smith ( nee Forsyth ) was described as Independent, as was her mother, Jane Forsyth.

I believe that William Smith may have been a mason and wondered whether there may be someone who has access to trade directories for Nairn for the early years of the 19th century who would be kind enough to have a look to see if he is listed.

William Smith and Margaret Forsyth married in 1813 in Nairn, though the 1841 census says that neither she, nor her mother, was born in the county so I am having fun and games looking for her birth.

Also, any reference to a family of Forsyths in Nairn, pre 1841, would be hugely welcome. All I know on this one is the widow's name is Jane and that in 1841 she was between 60 and 65 years old.

It's a long shot I know but maybe there is someone who can give even a glimmer of hope on this.

Regards,

Jen

LesleyB · Post by **LesleyB** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 10:50 am

Hi Jen
..and a warm welsome to Talking Scot

It would seem from the delay that no one who has read your post has access to trade directories for Nairn. I wonder if it might be worthwhile contacting or joining the Highland Family History Society?
http://www.highlandfhs.org.uk/
They may have access to resources which may help you. Or contact:
The Highland Council Archive

Also any entries in the OPRs for the births of his children might be worth looking at just in case an occupation or place of residence is mentioned, if you've not looked at these already.

Sorry I can't offer any more precise help

Best wishes
Lesley

jen wilson · Post by **jen wilson** » Fri Apr 07, 2006 3:36 pm

Thank you Lesley, I have registered my names interests and may join up fully when I have more time to devote to family history.

I suspect that I could struggle to make any progress on this one but can only keep trying.

regards,

Jen