Canal Workers

The Stratfull / Stratful families have had a long association with the Grand Junction Canal (now known as the Grand Union Canal) and the Aylesbury Arm of the canal.

The family originated from Marsworth, Buckinghamshire. William Stratfield (b. abt. 1787) was a labourer, probably an agricultural labourer. When the canal was constructed through their village it must have been viewed with apprehension by some, but others like William Stratfield's son (William Stratford) and several of William Stratford's sons it must have been seen as an "escape route" to more consistent employment. Although, canal work was hard physical work with little time to ones-self (we know they worked many hours a day and had little time off);  it must have been a good way for them to make a living.

There are connections to these other families, many of which are believed to be canal working families:-

Andrews - Bastable - Brooks - Currie - Franks - Gentry - Halford (variant Alford etc.) - Holland -
Kendall - Matthews - Mecoy - Owen - Prince - Vearey (variant Verey etc.) - Walker

We are keen to make contact with others researching canal families so that we can make connections with the Stratfull families. If you recognise these names as canal workers please make contact. 

For information on the Grand Junction Canal History and information on the Aylesbury Arm of the canal please follow these links.

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Copyright © 2000 - 2008 David Frederick Thorn.                                          
Last modified: 13 February 2008 18:20