I too am researching "Forster" in Co. Durham, as well as Williamson and Reay. Frances Forster married John Williamson in 1856 in South Shields, died aged only about 31 in 1867, already a widow. Her parents were William Forster from Tanfield and Mary (unknown) from Newcastle. Her two children Thomas Forster Williamson and John William Williamson I believe were on the training ship "Wellesley" at the 1871 census. Thomas eventually moved to Liverpool and worked for the White Star Line but I have lost track of John William. Does any lister know anything at all about the Wellesley records please because they may give some clue as to which of the many John Williamsons from South Shields or Scotland, married Frances, and fathered the two boys. Regards, Eileen