Introduction
Ann Giles is an example of an elderly woman receiving outdoor relief (support in the form of money, food and medical help outside the workhouse).
In March 1851, she was a widow and pauper aged 77 living with her daughter, Harriett, and Harriett’s husband, William Rendell, at Hardington. She subsequently obtained accommodation in one of the almshouses at East Coker.
Birth
Ann was born around 1774 in West Coker, the daughter of Richard and Mary Rendell.
Marriage
On 22 June 1797, Ann married George Giles at East Coker. Both signed the register with a mark. George was the son of Lawrence and Grace Giles.
East Coker
George and Ann established their home at East Coker, where George worked as a sailcloth weaver.
In June 1841, George may have been resident at East Coker, but Ann has not been found.
George’s death
George probably died in December 1845 at the age of 73.[1]
Hardington
By March 1851, Ann Giles, aged 77, was a pauper living with her daughter, Harriet, and Harriet’s husband, William Rendell, in the High Street at Hardington.
Return to East Coker
By April 1861, Ann lived with her daughter Phillis in an almshouse at East Coker. She died in August 1862 at the age of 89.
Children
George and Ann had two sons and four daughters.
References
[1] The East Coker burial register records the burial of George Giles, aged 73, on 11 December 1845 and another individual with the same name on 18 June 1848, aged 83.
