I wonder if anyone has any ideas on how to solve several mysteries all mixed in with a scandal or two. When my gt grandfather Alfred Elder (b. abt. 1863) was married to Allison Fisher in 1883, his parents are shown as Alexander Elder and Elizabeth Horsburgh, neither who are listed as deceased. However, when Alexander remarried in 1865, he is shown as a widower. There is no indication that Elizabeth died between 1863 and 1865 but there appears to be an Elizabeth Horsburgh Elder who died in 1900. She is shown as a widow of Alexander Elder, coachman (same occupation). (I hope this is not getting too confusing). Alexander and Elizabeth also had a daughter Isabella who married in 1877. Her mother is shown as deceased. My gt. Grandfather (Alfred) appears in the 1871 census living in a foster home? and his mother, Elizabeth, is no where to be found. In 1861, his father, Alexander, is living as a lodger and is shown as married although Elizabeth is not living with him. Elizabeth H Elder does not reappear until 1891 where she is now a servant and shown as a widow. (Alexander also died in 1891). There is no birth certificate for Alexander and Elizabeth's son, Alfred.
Here's what I think….
Elizabeth may have been institutionalized.
Alexander told everyone that Elizabeth had died including his daughter Isabella. However, my gt grandfather, Alfred knew his mother was alive and was estranged from his father.
When Elizabeth had Alfred in 1863, Alexander may have doubted paternity and had nothing to do with Alfred.
Alfred's mother was not able to care for him and he ended up in foster care.
Elizabeth considered that she was married to Alexander until he died, although the reverse was clearly not true.
Because Alfred was born under questionable circumstances, his mother never registered his birth.
If someone is willing to follow this confusing narrative, any suggestions on how to clear up this mystery would be greatly appreciated
Kathleen Page