In March 1851, Elias Farnham, aged 21, was a gentleman’s servant, living with his parents and three siblings in Partway Lane. His father, George Farnham, was a farm labourer.

Elias’s position suggests he had the looks and manners suitable for such a role. However, his early promise was cut short by illness. At the time the census was taken, Elias was starting to show symptoms of tuberculosis. As the disease progressed, he was forced to leave his job and become a mere labourer.

Elias died at his parents’ home on 22 November 1851, aged 22, and was interred in the parish churchyard five days later.[1]

References

[1] Death certificate; Hardington burial register.