The Williams Family Tree

Aged 19 in 1861 Census.

Captain of 'Martha and Harriet' built in 1874. Reportedly lost in Nova Scotia in 1882.

From the 1851 Census (HO107 Piece 2495 Folio 226 Page 14) Richard, 9, a Boatman's Son, was with his widowed Grandmother, Gaynor Jones, 80, a Pauper House Servant from Mallwyd, Merionethshire.

From the 1861 Census (RG9 Piece 4240 Folio 58 Page 20) Richard, 19, a Seaman, was with his parents John Williams, 64, a Ferryman, and Mary, 54, in Aberdovey, Merionethshire, Wales.

From the book 'A Real Little Seaport' :-

516 WILLIAMS, RICHARD (1841-) M.M. (C.C. 29309). Aberdovey. He served as Master of the schooner Jane Owens from 1866 until he was discharged at Garston (Liverpool) 15/9/1873. He was then about 32. His successor was John Williams of Aberdovey, aged 39, previously the Mate of the Jane Owens. Richard Williams was appointed Master of the new schooner Martha & Harriet (139 tons) at Aberdovey 9/2/1874 when he was still aged '32'. Sadly, the Martha &' Harriet was lost 28/10/1882. Richard Williams was then 41. He and the crew were formally discharged at Halifax, Nova Scotia. Richard Williams was back in Aberdovey by 8/1/1883. He was not merely Master of the Martha & Harriet for he owned 20 shares in the new vessel. However, he had mortgaged his 20 shares to David Jones of Machynlleth, Slate Agent, 6/2/1874 to secure the 'sum on account current' plus interest at 5% per annum. What happened to Richard Williams after his return to Aberdovey in January 1883 awaits investigation. Richard Williams succeeded Capt. Thomas Williams of Borth, Cards, as Master of the schooner Jane Owens (96 tons) early in 1866. He was 24. The Jane Owens engaged in the Spanish and Portugese trades under his command.