Liverpool & South West Lancashire FHS - Forum

Looking for information on John Stephenson who married Catherine Nicholls 26 Sep 1790 St Anne Richmond, Liverpool, Lancashire, England
John Stephenson - Watch maker of the Parish of Liverpool
Catherine Nicholls - (X), Spinr. of the same place
Source: LDS Film 1656149
John and Catherine had at least four children, among them John Evans Stephenson, b 1793, a cooper who married Elizabeth Standish in 1819.

Any additional information on the above would be gratefully received. Also, can anyone explain why John Stephenson the watchmaker had, like his son, acquired the name John Evans Stephenson when he was appointed administrator to the estate of his father, William. In the probate document of 1799, John Evans Stephenson Watchmaker of the Parish of Liverpool was described as the "Natural & Lawful son of William Stephenson". I'm puzzled by the words "Natural & Lawful", as I thought that "Natural" meant illegitimate. John appears to have been the third son born to William, his older brothers apparently being born legitimate.

Any advice much appreciated!

Hi

Welcome to the forum. I wouldn't read too much into the phrase "Natural & Lawful son" I've seen that used in old probate records.


Blue

Hi and welcome to the forum. In the case of a Will I believe he is stating that his son is legitimate, rather than the opposite.

As to acquiring the middle name, have you checked previous generations - I know it won't be easy - but it may be that money had been passed down the family from in-laws named Evans, could even have been a requirement of the bequest that the name was included.

Hi Mary, John Evans was born 4.7.1793
and baptised 28.7.1793.
St Nicks to John and Catherine nee Nichols.

Not much help

Many thanks to all for your help. If I find out any more I'll report back.