Windsor Foundling

[ssncoleman]

Arthur or Albert Windsor is said to have been found in Windsor Great Park in the 1700s. I have an ancestor called William Windsor born circa 1793 (died 1830 aged 37) who I believe is one of the foundling's children, though could possibly be a grandson. I have William's marriage to Esther El(e)sley in 1818 in Chelsea, but cannot find William's baptism anywhere, in the Windsor/Eton area or London and the home counties, nor any mention of an Arthur or Albert Windsor. All foundlings would have been baptised - it was imperative to save the child's soul, and if found in Windsor Great Park baptism seems likely in the Windsor/Eton parishes. The Windsor branch I descend from ends up in West London (Brentford mainly). Does any of this sound familiar to anyone? I have had contact in the distant past with a Windsor line who have the same foundling story in the family and they are descended from a Henry Windsor - thought (by dint of his estimated DoB) to be a brother of William. Thanks

[Kerrywood]

Hi, and welcome to the Brit-Gen forums

Arthur or Albert Windsor is said to have been found in Windsor Great Park in the 1700s. I have an ancestor called William Windsor born circa 1793 (died 1830 aged 37) who I believe is one of the foundling's children

First, can you please tell us why you think your William WINDSOR is descended from this line?

I can see William & Esther's marriage at St Luke Chelsea on 19 July 1818, after banns, witnesses Thos BRYAN (apparently a church employee) and Anna Maria TAYLOR. Have you tried to check out Anna Maria TAYLOR at all, in case of a family connection?

Do you have William's occupation, from any baptism records for the children? I see an Emma WINDSOR was baptised 30 Jan 1820 at St Paul Hammersmith, and her father William was a Coachman. Is this the right family?

I see a possible burial for William WINDSOR at St Paul Hammersmith on 24 Oct 1830, aged 37. Have you checked the burial register for any address? Did he leave a will?

There's a possibility for the widowed Ester in Hammersmith in 1841, and in 1851 as grandmother of the children of George and Sarah A SMITH. HO107/1470 folio 75 page 21 (record held by TNA, Crown copyright). Is this the right person?

If so, she was born 'Framley, Surrey' (presumably Frimley -- there is a matching baptism on FamilySearch). Frimley was an area with a large military presence. Any chance that William had been in the army? Have you looked for a service record for him?

Just a few thoughts. Sorry to ask so many questions, but the more information you can give us the more chance there is of our members being able to help.