My wife's grandfather Henry Joseph Mallins was born in Ireland in may 1863. According to his marriage certificate he was the son of William Mallins a silk weaver.It is believed that Henry originated from Dublin. By profession Henry was a maker of optical lenses so he must have had a good education and probably came from a reasonably well to do family.
Not being well versed in the silk industry would it be possible for the son of a silk weaver to have received that level of education and training in the late 1800's or is it likely that William Mallins was more than a weaver?
I have found a record for 1844 for a William Mallins who was appointed to the special jury panel in Dublin with his address given as 9 Molesworth Street Dublin.
I think this is a lead worth following up but need advice from listers on how to go about it. Any guidance will be gratefully received.
Mick