Hi Jeff, I'd already done a very extensive search of the 1861 census, using approximate spellings and dates before I replied, which is why I eventually found James. So I'm afraid I've drawn a complete blank. I think Anne found the same situation. It could just be that he was simply missed out of the census, of course. It's not at all rare for people just to be missed - and for others to appear more than once at different addresses. It all depends who was where when the enumerator called - and how often he called. A certain amount of manipulation is always possible if there's a motive, of course. David Frost, for example just happened to find Nelson Mandela staying at his house on the night of the 2001 census. "Oh well, I suppose I'll just have to put him down on the form then..." Sorry I can't be more helpful with this one. I've put this back to the list in case anyone else can find anything for you. Best wishes Rgds, Bob Thornley, Bolton From: Jeffery McGowen To: bob@thornleysystems.co.uk Sent: Saturday, April 15, 2006 10:32 AM Subject: 1861 Census Bob Thornley, George McGowen, (my gt-grandad) was the only one that i have traced todate where the age is proved to be correct, George McGowen. Born 1848 in Hulme, Manchester, listed in 1851 Census Aged 3 years old. George McGowen. Died 1896 in Bolton, Lancashire listed in 1891 Census, Died aged 48 years of age. Age at Death = 48 He was 6 years old when he walked it to Cheqerbent, in 1854 and was living at the Red Lion cottages He was 22 years old when he got married in 1874 and moved on to Daubhill-Prescott Street But where was he living in in the 1861 Census, aged 12 years old? That is the burning question that has haunted our family all these years. Could please check the 1861 Census for me, as i have recently head that parts of the 1861 census were missing for a long time. I would really appreciate it if you could. Jeff McGowen