My g-g-grandmother was one Eliza Petts, born in 1830 in Hunsdon in Hertfordshire, UK.

The Petts of Hertfordshire seem to be pretty well documented on the IGI and it seems that Eliza Petts' father was one James Petts (b. Hunsdon, 1796) and her mother one Anne RICE. James Petts' father is listed as Thomas Petts (b. ca. 1776?) and his mother as 'Susannah'. James is the only child listed and - as stated - was born in 1796.

Puzzlingly a Thomas Petts is also listed by the IGI as having married a Hannah BRAND (b. Much Hadham, Herts, 1771). This couple had at least six children in Hunsdon at dates ranging from 1793 to 1815. Curiously there is a big gap between 1793 and 1799 - ie about the time that JAMES Petts was born.

I am therefore left wondering whether 'Susannah' and 'Hannah' (Brand) are the same woman. The names could look very similar when transcribed from Victorian handwriting.

Has anyone researched the Petts of Hunsdon who can throw some light on this?

Best Wishes

Matthew Barnes