I have noticed in the UK census data that William Canning was living in
Camberwell, Surrey in 1881 aged 60 as a printer and book seller. He had
been born Chelsea, London
His wife, Mary A Canning, was aged 58.
Children at home on census night were
Charles C Canning, a 29 year old book seller
Grace Canning, a 22 year old
Ada Canning, a 21 year old
Arthur F Canning, an 18 year old book seller
Stratford Canning, a 16 year old book seller.
Stratford is not a usual name. It may have been chosen to honor a notable
namesake. It might alternatively honor an uncle.
The diplomat, Stratford Canning 1786 - 1880 was a distinguished diplomat who
wrote prodigeously. This Stratford was well known. He had three
brothers, named Henry, William and Charles. None of them, as far as I
know, had a publicised legitimate son called William Canning. There is
nevertheless the possibility of an illegitimate son called William Canning.
(William, of course, was a very popular name at this time in England, being
the name of the king who directly preceded Queen Victoria.)
Does anyone know more? Or even .... did anyone pick up any rumours?
Thanks for any thoughts.
Sincerely
Charles Hillman