Francis Bell

Francis Bell was born (we think) in Canonbie, Dumfriesshire in 1805 ± 1 year.

He marriied a fellow Scot, Agnes Graham in Woolford, Warwickshire in 1836. In 1837 he was working in Thrumpton, Nottinghamshire, possibly as a gardener at Thrumpton Hall.

Their second son, James, was born in Scotland in 1839. Their 1st Daughter was born in Fulham, London in 1844. They spent the next few years in Scotland, producing children in 1845,1847. By 1850 they were in Shawbury, Shropshire. In 1851, Francis was Head Gardener & Baliff at Acton Reynald

"The conservatories and greenhouses are extensive, and kept in the most beautiful order. These gardens are highly creditable to the taste and superior management of Mr. Francis Bell, the gardener." Bagshaw; History, Gazetteer & Directory of Shropshire, 1851 From the census data:

In 1841 they were in Fulham, London
1851 they were living at Grinshill, Acton Reynald.
1861 living at Ridge, Hertfordshire
Agnes died in 1864 in Shropshire
1871 and 1881, Francis was living at Weedon Lois, Northamptonshire.
by 1891, Francis had retired and moved to South Wales to be near his Son, Walter.
In 1994, Francis died in Cardiff, Wales aged 89 or 90.