Would love to know more about my Charles Hartley who I believe was born 1831, London, England & also who his parents & siblings were.
As a young man, I believe he went to sea, sailing to several parts of the world before trying his hand at whaling mainly around the South Pacific. He must have been at whaling stations in New Zealand as he spoke Maori fluently as he did several other languages, which apparently enhanced a joke or two. (obituary).
In 1861, perhaps earlier, he settled in Okains Bay where he married Martha Holstein (widow), nee Bomforth who had come with her parents from England.
His occupation then was shoemaker. Was his father a shoemaker?
Help or slightest suggestion greatly appreciated.
Thankyou,
Dianne
