William Alexander Churcher (buried 1881)

William Alexander Churcher was the grandfather of William Alexander Churcher. William Alexander Churcher senior was born on 22^nd June 1817  in Broadwater to James Churcher and Susannah Andrews.  He married Maria Plowman on 10^th May 1841 in Broadwater, which was a double wedding with William’s brother James. 

The couple lived with Maria’s parents, James and Emily Plowman at 1 Surrey Street, Worthing after they were married in 1841, William worked as a Bricklayer.  Maria’s mother Emily worked as a cook and Maria’s father James worked as a labourer. Records show that James and Emily were paupers at the time.

They are still living with James and Emily Plowman in 1851 at no. 1 Surrey Street Worthing. They now have 4 children – Harriet born 1843, William Alexander born 1845, James born 1847, Joseph born 1850. They also had a daughter called Maria Clara born 1842 but she died in 1844. 

Maria’s Father James died in 1853 and is buried in Broadwater Cemetery and by 1861 William and Maria have moved to 12 Surrey Street, Worthing, Maria’s Mother Emily is living with them. They now have a further 4 children – Jane born 1853, John born 1855, Robert born 1857, George born 1860 

In 1871 they have moved next door to no. 14 Surrey Street and have a further child – Frederick born 1862.

They are still living in Surrey Street in 1881, with their Son George and grandson James.

William died on the 12th September 1881 while living at 15 Surrey Street, Worthing and was buried in Broadwater cemetery. Maria moved to no. 3 London Street, Worthing after her husband’s death and lodged with Sarah Dear, a Laundress. Maria died on 7th April 1892 and is buried with her husband in Broadwater Cemetery.