Hi Doug Please could you explain what the 'settlement exam in 1743' is, that you refered to in your details about William THOMPSON. Many thanks Vyv

Hello Vyv In the days of the Poor Law, each person was attached to the parish of their birth. If they became destitute the parish had to provide for them. If you wanted to live somewhere else you had to apply to become a member of that parish. You then had a "Settlement Examination" before the local poor law commissioners. This was a type of interview which was recorded. You would not be accepted unless it looked like you were going to be able to provide for yourself. If you became destitute and had not been granted a settlement you would be "removed" - sent back to your parish of origin. That's roughly right anyway. I don't claim to be correct in every detail! best wishes Doug on 16/5/05 8:25 pm, VyvScawen@aol.com at VyvScawen@aol.com wrote: > Hi Doug > > Please could you explain what the 'settlement exam in 1743' is, that you > refered to in your details about William THOMPSON. > Many thanks > Vyv >