Genealogy Chat

I've lost count of the number of ancestors who died of TB in the 1800's and into the 1900's. One family lost the father and 2 little girls within 2 weeks. Poor sanitation and over crowding caused the spread of contagious diseases.

Sue

Have you any idea what age group we are talking about here? Sanitation was poor during that period for a great many people and illnesses like TB, pneumonia and bronchal complaints were rife. Before you assume that the absence on the 1861 census was due to a death, look for the person in question in later census returns. I have found a few relatives still alive in 1871 who had appeared on the 1841 census but who were missing for the 2 census returns in between. Absences could be for any number of reasons not necessarily death.

Small pox outbreaks were common in these times, especially in large towns and cities. Where were your ancestors living?

Bob

Hi all,

Do any of you knowledgeable folks out there know of any diseases around at this time that could have wiped out certainly 2 members of a family - maybe more?

I am having problems locating relatives that I have found in the 1851 census - but cannot locate in the 1861 census. Deaths are just a thought, but it must be something that is considered.

I have found recorded deaths of people of the same name as the 'missing' relations, but of course with deaths it is difficult to be sure that they are indeed your relatives!

I know how knowledgeable you all are - so thought I would pick a few brains to see if you could point me in the right direction on this.

Many thanks.

Elaine