Benjamin of Bobbingworth
Solid evidence for this family follows the first appearance of Benjamin in Bobbingworth parish registers in 1807; the family thereafter lived in Matching, High Laver, Harlow, Epping, and one branch emigrated to Australia. But one wonders if the family sprang from Hatfield Broadoak. There are several reasons why this might be possible:
(1) as far as is currently known, the name 'Benjamin Beard' is only known in Hatfield Broadoak before 1800
(2) a Benjamin was baptised in Hatfield Broadoak in 1776; his age would be consistent with Benjamin of Bobbingworth having children in the early 1800s
(3) the Benjamin above was the son of a husbandman; Benjamin of Bobbingworths son is known to have farmed c.45 acres
(4) according Matching parish records, Benjamins sons William and Benjamin were both living in Hatfield Broadoak prior to their marriages - possibly living with their parents?
This certainly doesn't amount to proof but I believe it to be persuasive. My hypothesis therefore is as follows: Benjamin of Hatfield Broadoak (b.1771) marries one Elizabeth of Bobbingworth in around 1805. They stay there for the birth of their first two children, and then return to Hatfield Broadoak sometime in the 1810s or 1820s. Both of Benjamins sons marry and consequently live in Matching.
This tree was created with the invaluable help of Barbara Beard (nee Hanlon)
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