1861 Census William & Sarah HOOKINS (3N Tree)

Just checked another family on the 1861 Census and found William with his wife Sarah and 2 children William G and Mary E. At that time William was a Civil Guard in Portland Prison and was living at Portland. He was previously a Bombardier in the Royal Artillery from which he was discharged in 1856 being no longer fit for service. His discharge papers descreibe him as of exemplary character. He was also a poet and is alleged to have sent poetry to Lord Tennyson. He also is believed to have been acquainted with Charles Dickens who attended the church where William and Sarah were married. Sadly Mary died when aged only 13 and William G as well as possibly another brother Arthur also pre-deceased their parents. Only Alfred J 1871-1942 seems to have outlived their parents.