Just an update on my Rainbows in case anyone might have a connection:

My earliest is John Rainbow of Cottesbach, Leicestershire, b. abt. 1746 (his father is possibly William but I've yet to prove this).

One of his children, John, started a branch in Birmingham: son Walter, married Ellen and their children were: Walter, Alfred, Archibald, Nellie, Bernard, and Frank H.

Another of John's children was J.G. Rainbow, actor and theatre manager of West Bromwhich Theatre Royal. Father of the elusive Emma Rainbow (semi-famous actress).

Yet another of John's children, Joseph (my direct ancestor) started a Coventry branch of Rainbows. One of his children, Jabez, became a soldier, was stationed in St. Albans, cut his girlfriend's throat and was transported to Van Diemen's Land for his crime.

More information on my Rainbows can be found on my website: www.rainbowfamily.co.uk

I'd love to hear from anyone who thinks they have a connection, no matter how tenuous :-)

Paula