How reliable are occupations listed in early Census and Marriage certificates? I am researching my 3 x Great Grandfather George Bowman, born ~1781.
It appears from the LDS site that he and his wife, Mary, had up to 8 children, christened in Osbaldwick near York. I have been getting marriage certificates for these individuals to confirm the relationships. However although other facts appear consistent such as dates and places of birth, the occupation of George Bowman is either listed as Labourer or Farmer (the census of 1841 and 51 also list him as a farmer).
Obviously there is a possibility of two separate George Bowmans being involved but was wondering just how accurate some of these entries were.
It appears from the LDS site that he and his wife, Mary, had up to 8 children, christened in Osbaldwick near York. I have been getting marriage certificates for these individuals to confirm the relationships. However although other facts appear consistent such as dates and places of birth, the occupation of George Bowman is either listed as Labourer or Farmer (the census of 1841 and 51 also list him as a farmer).
Obviously there is a possibility of two separate George Bowmans being involved but was wondering just how accurate some of these entries were.
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