We have received the enquiry below from Donald Benson, whose ancestors moved to America from this area in 1835. If anyone can help in Donald's search for further information, please get in touch with him via the email address donald.benson@att.net

I would like to know any information on the Powell and James families who lived in the area of Thornton Steward prior to 1835.  My great-great grandparents, John Powell and Jane James, were married in Thornton Steward in 1832. Their first child, Jane, was born in the fall of 1832. The family history mentions that she was ill/or injured and died at a young age and thus was not on the passage to America in 1835.

Jane James' parents, Thomas James and Ann Castling, were married in Bedale in 1801. They eventually came to America, lived in New York state, moved to Wisconsin and died in Eagle WI, USA in 1863. John Powell's parents are John Powell and Martha Liversedge. My great grandfather was Stephen Powell who was born in the Lockport area of New York in 1842.

Any information would be appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read this query.

Donald Benson