Hi Ann, Are you sure she was from Stotfold? Perhaps somebody will be able to look at the Parish Records for the marriage. I looked at IGI and of only three possibilities in Bedfordshire, one died and another would be about 33 when married. I notice there is a user submission derived from the marriage record suggesting a birth around 1775 in Stotfold but giving no parents. However, when you go to Lincolnshire there are a lot more possibilities for Ann Lilley. It wouldn't be the first time people eloped and married elsewhere. Have you found Nathaniel and Ann in 1841 and 1851 census, although they would be getting on a bit. It looks like they moved back to Lincolnshire where they had all their children. Perhaps if they survived to 1841 it will at least show if she was born in the county. Peter

Thanks Peter, for the input. There is conflicting info on the origins so have followed several avenues of research. The lack of Lilley family or relatives around Stotfold is an indication that it might have been an elopement...or he might have been in a regiment stationed nearby. Thanks for the ideas...all in put helps. Cheers, Anne