French connection?

[seashell]

My Davies family - father Joseph b. abt. 1806 in Tredegar, mother Ann b. abt 1803, and their children lived in Bedwellty for several of the censuses. However, two of their children were born in France - around 1829, 1830.
In looking at the census, it seems there are quite a few people from Monmouthshire who were born in France in the early 1830's.
Does anyone know what would have taken Welsh families to France around that time?
Thanks for any input -
Debbie

[topaz]

I am not sure if my reply will be an hinderance or help to you, but here goes!

In Bedwellty there is a village called Fleur-de-lys which I believe was settled by Huguenots in the 18th century - please do not take this as fact as I am not sure where I picked up this information. However, it might give you something to look up.

With regards to the early census etc. it is in the area of the villages of Trelyn and Pontaberpengam (in 1841 at least!)

I hope this will be of some help to you.

Caroline