James Eggar Jefferis

M, b. 12 January 1836, d. 12 June 1878
Family Explorer

James Eggar Jefferis (1936-1878)
  • James Eggar Jefferis was born on 12 January 1836.
  • He was the son of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar.
  • James Eggar Jefferis was baptized on 12 February 1836 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, James Eggar Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in Cnr High and Market Street, Alton. James is shown as a 42 year old linen draper, born Alton, with 2 men, 2 apprentices. Sarah is aged 41 born Henley, Oxford, James E 15, Jane 9, Louisa M 1, Mary E 5 and Samuel 13 all born Alton.

  • At the time of the 7 April 1861 census, James Eggar Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in High Street, Alton, Hampshire. James is a 52 year old silk merchant, [living on the site of present Boots ie cnr of High Street and Market Street. In 1977 archeologists dug inside the shop and evidence of medieval Alton was uncovered]. Sarah was born in Henley on Thames in Oxford. The children were all born Alton.

  • At the age of 31 years, 4 months and 23 days, James Eggar Jefferis married Jane Louisa Webb, daughter of Robert Norman Webb and Jane Hooper, on 4 June 1867 in Henley, Oxfordshire. James Eggar, 31, was living at Alton at the time of his marriage and Louisa who was 17 was living at Henley with her parents Jane and Robert Norman Webb. Robert Norman Webb (Jane's father, a coal and timber merchant), Ethel Jefferis ?, James Jefferis (father), Susan Hooper(her maternal aunt) and Thomas Eggar (James Eggar's uncle) were present at the marriage. Jane Louisa Webb was most likely a relation of Sarah Webb (James' second wife) as they were both born in Henley on Thames.
  • James Eggar Jefferis and Jane Louisa Webb appeared on the census of 2 April 1871 in High Street, Alton, Hampshire. James was a silk merchant, draper aged 35 living with his wife Jane and son Harry S E aged 2. Janes sister Eliza J Webb aged 20 was also living with them along with various employees.

  • On 17 February 1872 the following advertisement was placed in the Hampshire Chronicle " Black silks, James E Jefferis, silk mercer, High Street, Alton.
  • On 3 January 1873 the local board took out policy no 416643 with Alliance Assurance Company:- on a dwellinghouse and shop communicating occupied by Mrs Hewett, dealer is small wares 200 pound, on a store (part of which is used as a Stable and Coachhouse) adjoining above, occupied by J E Jefferis, Linen Draper - 150 pound; on a dwelling house adjoining the last named, occupied by Mrs Wigley, bootmaker. 250 pound. All brick and tiled, situate in Market Street, Alton.
  • James Eggar Jefferis died on 12 June 1878 in No 2 Kensington Park Gardens, St Saviour, London, at age 42. He had been suffering from acute meningitis for 10 days. His brother-in-law Henry Peter Webb of Henley on Thames was present at his death. At the time of his death he was a timber merchant.

Children of James Eggar Jefferis and Jane Louisa Webb

Jane Jefferis

F, b. 20 November 1841, d. 18 January 1911
Family Explorer

Jane Jefferis (1841-1911) - Daughter of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar
  • Jane Jefferis was born on 20 November 1841 in Alton.
  • She was the daughter of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar.
  • Jane Jefferis was baptized on 5 January 1842 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Jane Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in Cnr High and Market Street, Alton. James is shown as a 42 year old linen draper, born Alton, with 2 men, 2 apprentices. Sarah is aged 41 born Henley, Oxford, James E 15, Jane 9, Louisa M 1, Mary E 5 and Samuel 13 all born Alton.

  • At the time of the 7 April 1861 census, Jane Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in High Street, Alton, Hampshire. James is a 52 year old silk merchant, [living on the site of present Boots ie cnr of High Street and Market Street. In 1977 archeologists dug inside the shop and evidence of medieval Alton was uncovered]. Sarah was born in Henley on Thames in Oxford. The children were all born Alton.

  • Jane Jefferis appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in Westholme, Titchfield, Hampshire. Jane is shown as the 38 year old head of the school. Her nephew John E Baigent 9, attended the school as did Henry S E Jefferis aged 12.

  • She appeared on the census of 31 March 1901 in Crofton, Southhampton. She is shown as a 59 year old sick nurse in a sanitorium.
  • Jane Jefferis died on 18 January 1911 in Christchurch, Hampshire, at age 69.
  • ( I received this email from England -.
    "Audrey - I have found a Miss Jane Jefferis, born in Alton whilst searching the history of my house. You may have seen the page in the latest HS journal. Jane Jefferis was a head teacher of a boys prep school in Titchfield called Westholme from sometime after 1859 (definitely by 1867) until before 1891 (but after 1885). The page in the 1881 census gives her age as 38 and there is a boy border in the school Henry Samuel Jefferis aged 12 also born in Alton ( not sure of the relation). Jane took over her post from a lady called Martha Eggar, possibly connected to Eggar's Grammar School in Alton as she was possibly born in Holybourne in 1818.
    You may already know all this and more, I would be interested if she fits into your family tree and if you have any more details about her and her life in Titchfield. I live in half of the house that once was the prep school.

    Signed ..... "

Jessica Alice Jefferis

F, b. September 1900
Family Explorer

John Jefferis

M, b. 6 July 1804, d. September 1889
Family Explorer
  • John Jefferis was born on 6 July 1804.
  • He was the son of Thomas Jeffery Jefferis and Ann Kemp.
  • John Jefferis was baptized on 22 July 1804 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • He witnessed the marriage of Ann (Mary) Jefferis and Thomas Poynder Garrett on 16 October 1851 in Alton, Hampshire; Ann's father is shown as Henry Jefferis. Witnesses are Sarah Jefferis (wife of James), John Jefferis, William and Mary Garrett.
    (From the Diary of William Terrell Gunner of Will Hall Alton - Mr and Mrs Garrett to the station hence they were off to the Continent; Garrett is studying at Cambridge for the Church, and he's married this day to our friend Mary Jefferies. I am sure I wish her every happiness and that she may fulfil the many duties of a clergyman's wife.")
  • His marriage, at 61 years and 1 month, to Rhoda Taylor was registered in the September 1865 Quarter in Bristol, Gloucestershire Registration District.
  • John Jefferis and Rhoda Taylor appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in Lower Oldfield, Honley, York. John is shown as a 76 year old Woollen Manufacturer born Alton, Hampshire living with his wife Rhonda 49 born Longwood, York, a wool weaver and their daughters Rhoda 15 born Longwood, York, a wool weaver and Hannah aged 9 born Honley York, a scholar.

  • His death was recorded with the Huddlersfield, West Riding, Registration District in the September 1889 Quarter.

Children of John Jefferis and Rhoda Taylor

Joseph Jefferis

M, b. 12 July 1905
Family Explorer
  • Joseph Jefferis was born on 12 July 1905 in Queensland.
  • He was the son of Henry Samuel Eggar Jefferis and Catherine Prior.
  • Joseph Jefferis appeared on the Electoral Roll in 1936 living at Central Line, Gladstone. Joseph is shown as a labourer.
  • Joseph Jefferis married Alice Fields circa 1940 in Queensland.

Kathleen Mary Jefferis

F, b. 4 October 1925, d. 14 May 1989
Family Explorer

Leo Jefferis

M, b. 21 October 1928, d. 5 January 1999
Family Explorer
  • Leo Jefferis was born on 21 October 1928.
  • He was the son of Henry Eggar Jefferis and Kathleen Victoria Mary Smith.
  • Leo Jefferis died on 5 January 1999 in Hervey Bay, Queensland, at age 70. His death notice appeared in the Frazer Coast Chronicle (Hervey Bay) on 7 January 1999.

Lewis Jefferis

M, b. 1834, d. March 1896
Family Explorer
  • Lewis Jefferis was born in 1834 in Alton, Hampshire, England.
  • He was the son of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott.
  • Lewis Jefferis was baptized on 1 November 1834 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the time of the 7 June 1841 census, Lewis Jefferis was living in the household of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott in Alton, Hampshire. The census showes Henry 40, Ann 30, Ann Mary 11, Henry Sparshott 8, Lewis 6 and Robert Kemp aged 4. All born in County.

  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Lewis Jefferis was living in the household of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott in Lenton Street, Alton. Henry is shown as a 53 year old tanner employing 13 men born Alton and living with his wife Ann 45, born Lamberhurst, Anne M aged 21, Lewis 16, Robert K 14 all born Alton.

  • At the age of 26 years, Lewis Jefferis married Julia Wise Eames on 22 May 1860 in Farringdon, Hampshire.
  • Lewis Jefferis and Julia Wise Eames appeared on the census of 7 April 1861 in Chelsea, London. Lewis is shown as a 26 year old secretary, born Alton. Julia is shown as 24 years old, born Hampshire.

  • On 19 November 1878 Lewis was a proprietor of a large hotel in Glasgow, he sent a box of "Black Game" to W T Gunner (WT Gunners Diary.)
  • Lewis Jefferis and Julia Wise Eames appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in Grand Hotel, Kings Road, Brighton, Sussex. Lewis is shown as a 46 year old Hotel Keeper born Alton Hamsphire. His 44 year old wife Juliet W was also born in Alton. Various servants and visitors are also at the household.

  • Lewis Jefferis appeared on the census of 5 April 1891 in Marylebone, London. Lewis is shown as a 56 year old born Alton.
  • His death was recorded with the Lindon Registration District in the March 1896 Quarter.

Child of Lewis Jefferis and Julia Wise Eames

Lewis Bright Jefferis

M, b. 6 February 1875, d. 16 May 1875
Family Explorer
  • Lewis Bright Jefferis was born on 6 February 1875 in Seven Mile Creek, Boolburra, Queensland. Robert Kemp's occupation is shown as clerk.
  • He was the son of Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright.
  • Lewis Bright Jefferis died on 16 May 1875 in Seven Mile Camp, Boolburra. Lewis died of fever and ague aged 10 days. His father's occupation was a clerk.
  • Lewis was buried on 17 May 1875 in Seven Mile Camp, Boolburra.

Lewis Robert Jefferis

M, b. 18 January 1870
Family Explorer
  • Lewis Robert Jefferis was born on 18 January 1870. The only record of his existence is in the Kemp family bible. There is no offical record of Lewis' birth and no other record has been found. Perhaps he was still born and there was not requirement for the parents to register his birth and death.
  • He was the son of Henry Sparshott Jefferis and Elizabeth Mary Monk.

Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis

F, b. 28 November 1892
Family Explorer
  • Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis was born on 28 November 1892.
  • She was the daughter of Martin Jefferis and Elizabeth Arrenberg Montague.
  • Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis's birth was registered in the London, an unknown place Registration District in the December 1892 Quarter.

Children of Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis

Louisa Martha Jefferis

F, b. 25 July 1849, d. 26 October 1915
Family Explorer
  • Louisa Martha Jefferis was born on 25 July 1849 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • She was the daughter of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb.
  • Louisa Martha Jefferis was baptized on 7 September 1849 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Louisa Martha Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in Cnr High and Market Street, Alton. James is shown as a 42 year old linen draper, born Alton, with 2 men, 2 apprentices. Sarah is aged 41 born Henley, Oxford, James E 15, Jane 9, Louisa M 1, Mary E 5 and Samuel 13 all born Alton.

  • At the time of the 7 April 1861 census, Louisa Martha Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in High Street, Alton, Hampshire. James is a 52 year old silk merchant, [living on the site of present Boots ie cnr of High Street and Market Street. In 1977 archeologists dug inside the shop and evidence of medieval Alton was uncovered]. Sarah was born in Henley on Thames in Oxford. The children were all born Alton.

  • At the time of the 2 April 1871 census, Louisa Martha Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in 31 South Street, Titchfield, Hamsphire. as a 62 year old retired draper born Alton. Sarah is 61 born Henley on the Thames. Their daughter Louisa, aged 21 was living with them.

  • At the age of 31 years and 1 month, Louisa Martha Jefferis married Charles Downes, son of John Downes and Helen Furness, in September 1880 in Fareham, Hampshire, England.
  • Louisa Martha Jefferis and Charles Downes appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in 40 Derby Street, Bruxton Extra, Staffordshire. Charles is shown as the 30 year old head born Derby, a public auditor and accountant living with his wife Louisa aged 31, born Alton, Hampshire. A servant Ann Redfern, 14 born Stanton, Derby is also living with them.

  • Louisa Martha Jefferis and Charles Downes immigrated to Albany, Western Australia, in 1888. They arrived on the 16 June 1888 on the "Austral" with their son Joscelyn.
  • Louisa Martha Jefferis was widowed on 7 March 1896 when died when Charles died under mysterious circumstances. After his death she took in washing and did housekeeping to make ends meet, a very different circumstance to her youth and early married life when her family and husband were able to afford to pay servants.
    She lived with her son Joscelyn and his family at 9 First Avenue, Marylands for many years.
  • Louisa Martha Jefferis died on 26 October 1915 in Swan Street, Guildford, Western Australia, at age 66. She died from bronchitis and cardiac arrest.
  • Louisa was buried in Karrakatta Cemetery.
  • Probate for her estate was granted on 2 December 1915 in the Supreme Court of Western Australia; A report in "The Western Australian" newspaper on 3 December 1915 showed "Louisa Martha
    Downes, late of Guildford to Joscelyn Jefferis Downes, amount not stated."

Child of Louisa Martha Jefferis and Charles Downes

Margaret Lockwood Jefferis

F, b. 19 November 1863, d. 28 March 1865
Family Explorer
  • Margaret Lockwood Jefferis was born on 19 November 1863 in Melbourne, Victoria.
  • She was the daughter of Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright.
  • Margaret Lockwood Jefferis died on 28 March 1865 in Ballarat, Victoria, at age 1.
  • Margaret was buried on 29 March 1865 in Ballarat Cemetery.

Marion May Jefferis

F, b. 4 May 1899
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Martha Jefferis

F, b. 1766
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Martin Jefferis

M, b. 8 January 1868, d. 1909
Family Explorer
  • Martin Jefferis was born on 8 January 1868 in London.
  • He was the son of Henry Sparshott Jefferis and Elizabeth Mary Monk.
  • Martin Jefferis's birth was registered in the London, an unknown place Registration District in the March 1868 Quarter.
  • His marriage, at 24 years and 1 month, to Elizabeth Arrenberg Montague was registered in the March 1892 Quarter Registration District.
  • Martin Jefferis died in 1909 in West Hampshire.

Children of Martin Jefferis and Elizabeth Arrenberg Montague

Mary Eggar Jefferis

F, b. 25 December 1845, d. December 1922
Family Explorer
  • Mary Eggar Jefferis was christened on 25 December 1845 in Alton, Hampshire. (Birth registered December 1845 - Jefferis Mary Eggar Alton 7 14. )
  • She was the daughter of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar.
  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Mary Eggar Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in Cnr High and Market Street, Alton. James is shown as a 42 year old linen draper, born Alton, with 2 men, 2 apprentices. Sarah is aged 41 born Henley, Oxford, James E 15, Jane 9, Louisa M 1, Mary E 5 and Samuel 13 all born Alton.

  • Mary Eggar Jefferis appeared on the census of 1851. shown as a 5 year old, born Alton.
  • At the time of the 7 April 1861 census, Mary Eggar Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in High Street, Alton, Hampshire. James is a 52 year old silk merchant, [living on the site of present Boots ie cnr of High Street and Market Street. In 1977 archeologists dug inside the shop and evidence of medieval Alton was uncovered]. Sarah was born in Henley on Thames in Oxford. The children were all born Alton.

  • Mary Eggar Jefferis appeared on the census of 1861 in 8 High Street, Alton, Hampshire. Mary is shown as a 15 year old scholar living with her parents.
  • She appeared on the census of 2 April 1871 in 2 High Street, Titchfield. Mary was working as a governess in her sister Jane's school.

  • She appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in Birkdale Road, Surry. Mary was boarding with a Charlotte Pendred, who ran a textile shop and an Ann Taylor, professor of Music. She was working as a daily governess.

  • At the age of 38 years, Mary Eggar Jefferis married William Clarke in 1884 in Derby.
  • Mary Eggar Jefferis appeared on the census of 5 April 1891 in Richmond Villa, Cleveland, Derbyshire. shown as a 42 year old living with her husband William (37, living on own means) and his daughters Alice M 10, and Florence 9. Both born St Werburghs, Derby.)
  • She appeared on the census of 31 March 1901 in 26 Morton Road, Littleham, Devon. shown as a 54 year old widow living on own means, with Alice Clarke 20 a governess, and Florence Clarke 19 also a governess.

  • Between 1901 and 1911,her husband, William Clarke died. Mary was shown as a widow on the 1911 census.
  • Her death was recorded with the West Derby Registration District in the December 1922 Quarter.
  • Mary Eggar Jefferis appeared on the census of 2 April, 1911.

Mary Elizabeth Jefferis

F, b. 22 July 1807, d. September 1881
Family Explorer
  • Mary Elizabeth Jefferis was also known as Elizabeth.
  • She was born on 22 July 1807.
  • She was the daughter of Thomas Jeffery Jefferis and Ann Kemp.
  • Mary Elizabeth Jefferis was baptized on 16 October 1807 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the age of 21 years, 10 months and 13 days, Mary Elizabeth Jefferis married Edward Baigent on 4 June 1829 in Alton, Hampshire. Mary and Edward were married by licence. Witnesses were Robert Jefferis, George Tiffin (?) Mary Binstead and Ann Masting(?)
  • At the time of the 3 April 1881 census, Mary Elizabeth Jefferis was living in the household of Sarah Jefferis and John Baigent in Poters Farm, East Worldham, Hampshire. John is shown as a 51 year old farmer of 1250 acres with 50 men and 12 boys born Binstead Hampshire. Sarah is shown as 47 years old born Alton. Their children Mary T aged 12 born East Worldham, Helen M aged 8, born East Worldham were living with them as did Mary C (E) Baigent, John's mother aged 72 born Alton, and Jane C (E) Baigent, aged 37 born Binstead, an annuitant. Servants and a governess also lived with them.

  • Her death was recorded with the Alton, Hampshire, Registration District in the September 1881 Quarter.

Children of Mary Elizabeth Jefferis and Edward Baigent

Mary Louisa Jefferis

F, b. June 1868, d. June 1870
Family Explorer
  • Mary Louisa Jefferis's birth was registered in the Alton, Hampshire Registration District in the June 1868 Quarter.
  • She was the daughter of James Eggar Jefferis and Jane Louisa Webb.
  • Her death was recorded with the Alton, Hamsphire, Registration District in the June 1870 Quarter . She was 2 years old.

Mary Louisa Jefferis

F, b. 24 September 1903
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Mona Eileen Jefferis

F, b. 9 June 1934, d. 26 August 2001
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Percy William Jefferis

M, b. 1873, d. 1 August 1907
Family Explorer
  • Percy William Jefferis was born in 1873.
  • He was the son of Lewis Jefferis and Julia Wise Eames.
  • Percy William Jefferis died on 1 August 1907.
  • Percy was buried in Willesden, London Borough of Brent, Greater London, England.

Phyllis Jefferis

F, b. March 1917
Family Explorer
  • Phyllis Jefferis's birth was registered in the West Hampshire, an unknown place Registration District in the March 1917 Quarter.
  • She was the daughter of Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis.
  • Her marriage, at 25 years and 3 months, to Charles Frederick Bannister was registered in the June 1942 Quarter in Southend Registration District.

Rhoda Jefferis

F, b. 1866
Family Explorer
  • Rhoda Jefferis was born in 1866 in Longwood, York.
  • She was the daughter of John Jefferis and Rhoda Taylor.
  • At the time of the 3 April 1881 census, Rhoda Jefferis was living in the household of John Jefferis and Rhoda Taylor in Lower Oldfield, Honley, York. John is shown as a 76 year old Woollen Manufacturer born Alton, Hampshire living with his wife Rhonda 49 born Longwood, York, a wool weaver and their daughters Rhoda 15 born Longwood, York, a wool weaver and Hannah aged 9 born Honley York, a scholar.

  • At the age of 17 years, Rhoda Jefferis married Benjamin Waddington in December 1883 in Huddersfield, West Riding.
  • Rhoda Jefferis and Benjamin Waddington appeared on the census of 31 March 1901 in Longwood, Yorkshire. Rhhoda is shown as a 35 year old woollen weaver born Huddlesfield, Yorkshire, Ben is shown as a36 year old drain pipe layer, born Huddlesfield. Charlie is a 17 year old railway clerk and Doris is 3 both born Huddlesfield.

  • Rhoda Jefferis appeared on the census of 2 April, 1911.

Children of Rhoda Jefferis and Benjamin Waddington

Richard Jefferis

M, b. December 1798, d. 21 March 1799
Family Explorer
  • Richard Jefferis was born in December 1798 in Alton.
  • He was the son of Thomas Jeffery Jefferis and Ann Kemp.
  • Richard Jefferis died on 21 March 1799 in Alton.

Robert Jefferis

M, b. 16 February 1806
Family Explorer
  • Robert Jefferis was born on 16 February 1806.
  • He was the son of Thomas Jeffery Jefferis and Ann Kemp.
  • Robert Jefferis was baptized on 16 October 1807 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • He witnessed the marriage of Mary Elizabeth Jefferis and Edward Baigent on 4 June 1829 in Alton, Hampshire; Mary and Edward were married by licence. Witnesses were Robert Jefferis, George Tiffin (?) Mary Binstead and Ann Masting(?)
  • His marriage, at 61 years and 6 months, to Lucy Baker was registered in the September 1867 Quarter Registration District.
  • Robert Jefferis was widowed in December 1874 when died Lucy died.
  • At the age of 69 years, 1 month and 20 days, Robert Jefferis married Martha Etherington on 5 April 1875 in Trotten, Sussex.
  • Robert Jefferis appeared on the census of 3 April 1881 in 25 Northumberland Road, Southhampton, St Mary, Hampshire. Robert is shown as a 75 year old retired farmer born Alton, living with his wife Martha aged 30 born Sussex and their three year old daughter Elizabeth M born Trotten Sussex.

Child of Robert Jefferis and Martha Etherington

Robert Kemp Jefferis

M, b. 18 January 1837, d. 26 April 1897
Family Explorer

Robert Kemp Jefferis (1837-1897)
  • Robert Kemp Jefferis was born on 18 January 1837 in Alton, Hampshire, England.
  • He was the son of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott.
  • Robert Kemp Jefferis was baptized on 22 February 1837 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • At the time of the 7 June 1841 census, Robert Kemp Jefferis was living in the household of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott in Alton, Hampshire. The census showes Henry 40, Ann 30, Ann Mary 11, Henry Sparshott 8, Lewis 6 and Robert Kemp aged 4. All born in County.

  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Robert Kemp Jefferis was living in the household of Henry Jefferis and Ann Sparshott in Lenton Street, Alton. Henry is shown as a 53 year old tanner employing 13 men born Alton and living with his wife Ann 45, born Lamberhurst, Anne M aged 21, Lewis 16, Robert K 14 all born Alton.

  • Robert Kemp Jefferis appeared on the census of 7 April 1861 in Upper Street, Farringdon. He was visiting the household of Elizabeth Eames, a widowed farmer and her family. His occupation was given as a foreign ? agent and his age shown as 27. Elizabeth may have been married to some relation of Julia Eames who had married Robert Kemp's brother in 1860 at Farringdon.

  • In 1862 he was Draper, Hampshire, ENGLAND.
  • At the age of 25 years, 4 months and 25 days, Robert Kemp Jefferis married Emily Ann Bright, daughter of Edward Bright and Mary Lockwood, on 12 June 1862 in St Margarets Church, Plumstead, Kent, England. Witnesses to the wedding were John Thorpe and Lucie Stone. Robert's profession was shown as a corn dealer. He was 25 years old, and Emily was 22. He lived in Hertford, she in Plumstead. Robert's father Henry was shown as a farmer, and Emily's father Edward Bright was also a farmer.
  • Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright immigrated to Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, in January 1863. They came on the "Swiftsure" to the Port of Melbourne. Emily brought with her a sewing box that is still held by a family member today.
    The sewing box brought to Australia by Emily Ann Jefferis (nee Bright) when she and Robert Kemp Jefferis immigrated to Melbourne on the "Swiftsure" in 1863.

  • Emily and Robert lived in Melbourne for a time after their arrival in Australia. Their first child Margaret Lockwood was born there. She died when she was only 16 months old in Ballarat. A few months later their second child, Edith Mary was born while they were living in Ballarat.
  • On 29 March 1865,Robert Kemp Jefferis's daughter, Margaret Lockwood Jefferis was buried in Ballarat Cemetery at age 1.
  • On 22 January 1866 the following article appeared in the "The Argus"(Melbourne):- FAUDULENT CONVERSION.
    Robert Kemp Jefferies was charged with fraudulently converting to his own use, five Rod Jacket shares entrusted to him by a Mr. Thomas Sugden. The evidence of Sugden went to show that he had offered prisoner some Crysels and Red Jacket shares to raise money on. The prisoner pointed out that the Red Jacket shares wanted the signature of a director, and were valueless without it. This, the prisoner seems to have obtained ultimately, and then the conversion to his own use was alleged. The prosecutor admitted that a paper had been written out, with his consent, to be put on the door of the office in which they contemplated commencing business, ostensibly as share brokers, but actually as jobbers- the prisoner to find brains and experience as an equiva ent for some £200 in cash to be supplied by the prosecutor. On this paper were written the* words " Sugden and Jefferies, stock and sharebrokers. Loans negotiated." Prosecutor denied that he had entered into any regular agreement to become a partner with the prisoner, but admitted having said once or twice, when pressed, " we might as well go in to business together." On this Mr. M'Dermott based hiis defence, viz., that the prisoner and prosecutor were virtually if not legally partners, and the act was not a criminal one. During the examination of Mr. Dickson, of the firm of Dickson and Turnbull, share broker, tbe following " passage" occurred :
    Mr. M'Dermott.-Do not all the brokers in Ballarat act as jobbers as well ?
    Mr. Dickson.-They do, I believe. Mr.M'Dermott.-Do you? Mr. Dickson.-Yes, I do.
    Mr. M'Dermott.-I admire your candour in making the admission. Do you know any broker on Ballarat who does not combine jobbing with broking.'
    Mr. Dickson.-I do not.
    Mr. M'Dermott-They all do it on the sly ?
    Mr. Dickson.-They all do it, but perhaps not all on the sly.
    Mr. M'Dermott.-You make no secret of it, but there are very few so candid as you.
    Mr, Dickson.-Oh, it is too well known that we all do it for any one to deny it at the Corner.
    Mr. M'Dermott.-I believe there is only one man on Ballarat who has had the courage and honesty publicly to avow himself a broker and jobber combined? Mr. Dickson.-Yes.
    Mr. M'Dermott.-In fact, the half of you could not make a living at the Corner at legitimate broking?
    Mr. Dickson.-Not daring the present bad times, at any rate.
    Before leaving the case with tbe Bench, Mr. M'Dermott drew attention to the fact that, by the 96tb clause of the Justices of the Peace Consolidation Act, no prisoner was allowed to say anything to his defence, nor to be heard by counsel, nor yet to call witnesses. The Bench felt sure this was never intended, and were prepared to hear witnesses if the prisoner had any to call.. Mr. M'Dermott said he had none. It was one of those peculiar capes in which it was almost impossible for a prisoner to get witnesses; but if the Bench would receive his client's statement, they might feel warranted in doing as the Fitzroy Bench had done in the case of Jones v. Wood, viz, giving more evidence to the statement of the defendant than to the oath of the prosecutor. If his client had been a member of Parliament, no doubt he would have had the same advantage that an M.P, had a few days ago at Daylesford, where the bench of justice was packed; but the prisoner had to rely solely upon the merits of his case. The bench finally committed the prisoner for trial, but he was allowed bail in two sureties of £50 each, or one of £100."
  • According to family hearsay, Robert would leave Emily and go searching for gold. She often didn't know his whereabouts and it seems it was a habit he got into during their early married life. He must have left Emily and Edith in Ballart, possibly to avoid a jail sentence, while he travelled to Queensland. On 3 September Emily placed the following advertisement in the Brisbane Courier Mail. It ran until at least the 15th September 1866
    Mr Robert Kemp Jefferis of Alton Hampshire - Dear Roby, please send for me at once - Emily, Creswick's Road, Ballarat.
  • Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright moved to Central Queensland in 1867.Robert must have "sent for" Emily, or returned for her himself because the small family travelled overland to Rockhampton meeting only one bushranger according to family hearsay.
  • Between 1867 and 1882 he was the paymaster for O'Rourke & Sharry, Central Railway Line Contractors, Rockhampton.
  • Between 1867 and 1882 they lived in various places along Central Railway Line. During this time five more children were born, three boys and two girls.
  • On 29 October 1867 he was shown as a miner at the time of his son Harrington's birth at in Bouldercombe, Queensland.
  • On 6 July 1870 he was a still a miner at the time of Sarah Ellen's birth in Three Mile Creek.
  • In 1873 he was a digger when daughter Ann was born.
  • In 1875 he was a clerk, having given up prospecting, when Lewis Bright was born in Seven Mile Creek.
  • In 1876 he was now an engineer at the time of Henry's birth.
  • At the time of their son Henry's death on 11 October 1876 Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright lived in Kent Street, Rockhampton, Queensland. Robert Kemp's occupation is shown as a railway contractor.
  • On 25 July 1878 Henry Jefferis, Robert Kemp's father, died in Alton. (Was Robert included in the will? Did he receive any monies?)
  • About 1882 Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright moved to Bundaberg . Edith's orbituary noted that she had come to Bundaberg 39 years before her death - probably about the time of the birth of their daugther Edith's baby, Bessie.
  • On 2 December 1885 Robert Kemp Jefferis lived in Electra Street, Bundaberg. At the time of Sarah Ellen's death Robert Kemp's occupation was noted as a clerk.
  • In 1893, family hearsay has it that the old Jefferis family home in Kent Street Rockhampton was washed away during the floods. There is a photo of the home in the Red School Reader of c 1835.
    Another story is that Grandfather Jefferis would disappear without telling anyone where he was going - and usually it was to the gold fields. It seems the gold fever never left his blood.

  • On 13 May 1895 Robert Kemp Jefferis lived in Electra Street, Bundaberg. Roberts occupation was shown as a draper.
  • Robert Kemp Jefferis died on 26 April 1897 in Woowoonga Creek, Biggenden, Queensland, at age 60. Robert's occupation is given as fisherman, he died from cancer of the groin. His living children are noted as Edith Mary 32, Annie 24 and Arthur 19.
  • Robert was buried on 27 April 1897 in Degiblo Cemetery, Queensland. A small obituray for him appeared in the Maryborough Colonist on 8 May 1897. The name details were incorrect but it read:- "On Monday king death paid us another visit and took with him to his last home, and old gentleman by the name of KEMP, who has arrived on a visit from Bundaberg to his daughter, Mrs Chambers, a resident of the Woowoonga Scrub, on Saturday last. Mr KEMP, who was over 60 years of age, had been ailing for a long time, having been an inmate of the Bundaberg Hospital for nearly nine months. The funeral took place at the Woowoonga Cemetery on Monday, and was attended by a number of sympathising friends."
    Gravestone of Robert Kemp Jeffeis and his granddaughter Bessie Jefferis - Degilbo Cemetery
  • A stain glass window, dedicated to Emily and Robert Kemp was erected in the Anglican Church by their children.
    Stain Glass window in the Anglican Church, Bundaberg, dedicated to Emily Ann Bright and Robert Kemp Jefferis


  • His granddaughter Gert Norman recorded some stories about her grandfather Robert Kemp.
    "Unfortunately I didn't know either of my Grandfathers; both had passed away before my time. I shall endeavor to tell you about the one we heard the most about ......................
    He was my mother's father and his name was Robert Kemp Jefferis. He was born in Hampshire, England, on 18 January 1837. When he grew up his occupation was a draper. At the age of 25 he married Emily Ann Bright. Apparently they must have had the urge to see the world, or at least Australia, because they came out here for their honeymoon. It seems they settled in Melbourne for some time as their first child Margaret Lockwood was born there on 19 November 1863. Unfortunately , her life was very short, as she died on 28 March 1865. They were living in Ballarat when their second child, Edith Mary, came into the world on 17 November, 1865. (She died in Maryborough 16 May 1940).
    Once again Grandfather wanted to move. He walked from Ballarat to Rockhampton, the journey taking three months. One of the stories I heard of his journey was his meeting a bush ranger who was a Scotsman named McPherson. This incident happened near where Miriam Vale now is. (This would be a story in itself. They said McPherson wasn't really a bad man but he played great tricks on the Police.)
    Grandfather found work in Rockhampton, and was paymaster on the Central Railway for sometime. My mother passed on to me stories of this time. She said that during a flood in the Dawson River, a wall of their house was used as a makeshift raft to rescue people. The Dawson in full flood was nine miles wide.
    The thirst for gold must have been in his veins, as he would go off prospecting. Some places mentioned to me were the Crocodile Diggings, now known as Bouldercombe, and the Gladstone area. During this time other children were born, Harrington, Sarah Ellen, Anne, Lewis Bright, Henry and Arthur.
    Later the family moved to Bundaberg to live. Although theirs was a family of eight children many were lost as infants, which I'm sure was due to the harsh living conditions they had in the Central District. Edith (my Mother) Anne and Arthur were the only ones to reach adulthood and marry. Neither Anne nor Arthur had a family. I am the youngest of my Mother's children and my sisters are Ellen and Edith Mary; my two brothers are Henry Arthur William and John Bright.
    Grandfather's health had declined and he died a comparatively young man on 25 April 1897, during a visit to my mother who was now married to Sampson Henry Chambers and living in the Biggenden District. His remains were put to rest in the Degilbo Cemetery.
    The only photo I have seen of him shows a fine looking man, with dark brown eyes, hair tinged with gray, and a long snow white beard."

Children of Robert Kemp Jefferis and Emily Ann Bright

Robert Percy Jefferis

M, b. 23 April 1873
Family Explorer

Robert Percy Jefferis (1873 - ) Son of James Eggar Jefferis and Jane Louisa Webb
  • Robert Percy Jefferis was also known as Percy.
  • He was baptized on 23 April 1873 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • He was the son of James Eggar Jefferis and Jane Louisa Webb.
  • At the time of the 3 April 1881 census, Robert Percy Jefferis was living in the household of Jane Louisa Webb in Bell Street, Henly on Thames, Oxfordshire. Louisa is shown as a 34 year old widow, no occupation living with Percy aged 8, and Alice aged 4 and a servant Keziah Midgly aged 14.

  • Robert Percy Jefferis immigrated to Queensland on 29 March 1891. The immigration list shows he was 23 years old but his correct age was 18. He travelled on the Jelunga His brother Henry Samuel was likely already in Queensland at that time. Robert arrived a few months before Henry Samuel's marriage to Catherine Prior. According to the 1897 Tennyson Birthday Book (presumed owned by Robert) he landed at Rockhampton on 2 April 1891.
    Tennyson Birthday Book similar to the one in which Robert Percy Jefferis wrote the dates he landed in Rockhampton and left Rockhampton for South Africa.
  • In a letter written around the time of her marriage, to Robert Percy in Australia on 18 February 1897, his sister Ethel Moorel (Alice Ethel Jefferis) refers to Harry (their brother Henry Samuel Eggar Jefferis) and says "When both my dear brothers are rich enough to come to England how gladly they will be welcomed."
  • At the age of 25 years, 2 months and 22 days, Robert Percy Jefferis married Caroline Jones, daughter of Hugh Jones and Margaret Bailey, on 15 July 1898 in Rockhampton, Queensland. According to family hearsay the marriage was "out of necessity". Caroline must have been planning to marry Robert Percy for some time as she had received a telegram on 6 April 1898, three months before the wedding, from a former boyfriend Albert J Body regarding her marriage: "My advice don't do so. Letter first mail". Robert Percy was a labourer at the time of his marriage.
  • Robert Percy Jefferis's and Caroline Jones's first child, Ethel Ivy Eggar Jefferis (known as Ivy) was born 13 March 1899 in Rockhampton. Her father's occupation was shown as a labourer on her birth certificate.
  • On 1 October 1901 Robert Percy, Caroline and Ivy left Rockhampton for Sydney on their way to South Africa.
  • Robert Percy Jefferis's second child Arthur Douglas Eggar Jefferis was born 1 January 1905 in Kimberley, South Africa. Robert Percy's occupation was shown as a mechanical engineer on Arthur's birth certificate.
  • In 1906 Ivy received the Longfellow birthday book for Christmas from her father, Robert Percy or her aunt Alice Ethel Jefferis (Ethel Moore). [A Longfellow birthday book is a book with a saying for each day of the year and a place for friends and relatives to sign their name on their birthday. In this book, there are quotes from the poems of Longfellow. Tennyson and Wordsworth also wrote similar books]. Ivy obviously used the book to collect the birth dates of her family members.
  • A few years after the birth of Arthur, Percy and Caroline separated. She returned to England with the children for a while, staying with Percy's family and impling she had left for her or Ivy's health's sake. She went back to South Africa but they returned to England on the SS Grantully Castle on May 1914. Both Caroline and Ivy then went to work in a munitions factory.
  • In 1931 he was a structural engineer at the time of his son Arthur's marriage.
  • In 1932, just before his grandaughter Barbara was born, her mother was sick and a letter of recommendation to the Maternity hospital was required. This was given by the secretary for De Beers Consolidated Ltd Mines suggesting that there is some connection between the diamond mine in South Africa and Robert Percy Jefferis. Family hearsay has it that Robert Percy remained in South Africa.

Children of Robert Percy Jefferis and Caroline Jones

Roy Jefferis

M, b. June 1920
Family Explorer
  • Roy Jefferis's birth was registered in the an unknown place , an unknown place Registration District in the June 1920 Quarter.
  • He was the son of Lilian Arrenberg Jefferis.

Samuel Jefferis

M, b. 30 June 1837
Family Explorer

Samuel Jefferis (1837- ). Son of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar
  • Samuel Jefferis's birth was registered in the Alton, Hampshire Registration District in the June 1837 Quarter.
  • He was baptized on 30 June 1837 in Alton, Hampshire.
  • He was the son of James Jefferis and Mary Eggar.
  • At the time of the 30 March 1851 census, Samuel Jefferis was living in the household of James Jefferis and Sarah Webb in Cnr High and Market Street, Alton. James is shown as a 42 year old linen draper, born Alton, with 2 men, 2 apprentices. Sarah is aged 41 born Henley, Oxford, James E 15, Jane 9, Louisa M 1, Mary E 5 and Samuel 13 all born Alton.