1838 Directory
Source: Wright's Topography submitted by G. Holmes
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~mrawson/di...
STAPLES, THOMAS: cabinet-maker, upholsterer, and general furniture dealer, 143, High Street. In 1841 Census he is listed as a widower, and living with his son, also THOMAS.

This son STAPLES,Thomas (b. between 1808-1811 in Sevenoaks, and died after 1881) married Harriett (possibly CHISHOLM). He is listed variously as cabinet maker, upholsterer, furniture dealer,and Appraiser. In 1881 he and his daughter ANNIE are living with a ROBERT HARNABY, painter and CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS invalid, and Thomas is said to be a relative of Harnaby.

Thomas & Harriet had a son GEORGE who may have been a member of Royal Navy at some time. May have been sailor who jumped ship when in South African port. Married JANE LOCKE in Cape Town. Became wealthy stoorkeeper and inventor, then ruined financially when ostrich feather industry collapsed.

Looking for information re George's English roots.