Robert Hales 1815-1893

The family story about Robert Hales' father (also supposedly named Robert) was that he was a foundling discovered on Hales Green in Lowestoft. When we visited the County Record Office in Lowestoft, the volunteers could not locate any such place. Robert's sister Charlotte named as her parents John and Mary Hales on her marriage registration, and the same information appeared on her death certificate.

The 1841 England census shows John Hales, 55, living with Robert and Elizabeth Hales and their family. It would seem that this person of the right age would be Robert's father, although the census does not specifically give a relationship. Notice that Robert's occupation is that of a shoemaker.

In the 1851 England census John Hales is residing in the Oulton Workhouse. John's place of birth is given as Blundeston. We also located a burial record of 24 June 1856 for John Hales in Oulton. Robert, Elizabeth and family immigrated to America in April of that same year.

1841 England census