Hi Lisa and yes, the 1850 census with Elizabeth and the kids is the right family. Eizabeth again is enumerated on the 1860 census, but with only 2 of her 9 children living with her. By the 1870 census, most have moved to Chemung County, NY or Fillmore County, MN.
The older kids stayed in the NY area and yes, Charles is almost elusive! I wonder if he had a room on board the ship and escaped the enumeration for all those years!
The namesake Charles who carried on as chief engineer could very well be his nephew, Charles Weed who was b. 1866 in Chemung County. He seemed to follow in his uncle's footsteps as I can't find him on any census records!
FYI Elizabeth, after having 10 chi., 9 who lived to adulthood, was left by her hubby who re-married in 1851 and had a few more....his son from his second? marriage, George W. lived in Berkshire Co., MA.
Perhaps he saw his half brother Charles??
Thanks again Lisa for all your wonderful help : )
Sincerely, Kathy
p.s.
The Weed family on the 1870 census.....yikes! I hope he didn't leave another family to fend for themselves!