Ascension : Correspondence To The Island
Submitted by The Islander (Islander Editors) 21.01.2010 (Article Archived on 04.02.2010)

I am currently researching my family history and believe that my Great, Great, Great Grandmother may have been born on Ascension Island in around 1822.

Name: Laura Vickers         Email: laurakvickers@yahoo.co.uk

Message:

I am a local journalist working in Birmingham, West Midlands, UK.
 
I am currently researching my family history and believe that my Great, Great, Great Grandmother may have been born on Ascension Island in around 1822. The 1861 England Census lists her as 'foreign' and states she was born on 'Isle of Ascen'.  Her married name was Elizabeth Vickers, unfortunately I do not know her maiden name.
 
Any help or direction you could give me in discovering more would be so gratefully appreciated.
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Name: Michael Ford           Email: info@biza.co.uk

Message:

Greetings from England!

I am a retired author living in Somerset writing a book about 1820s Atlantic piracy and in particluar, concerning the sailing ship 'Morning Star'of Scarborough. My ancestors in shipping had a direct connection with this vessel. She was attacked by pirates off Ascension Island on 19 April 1828 with tragic results. Many of the popular accounts of this incident are rather fanciful! I have researched much of the true story at the National Archives, Kew, over several years, but would be most interested to know if there is any record or material relating to this infamous attack still on the Island?

I imagine not, but one fact which has eluded me is the exact location of the attack. This is said to have been at a sheltered cove on the eastern coast of the island. It was a well chosen ambush as Lt. Col. Nichol's men were powerless to intervene.    

Any comments or information however insignificant, would be most welcome.

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Name: ABREU, Danillo         Email: danillo.tadeu.n@gmail.com

Message:

Hi, I'm Brazilian, and I have a big interest in visiting the Island. I'd like to know if it's possible.

The Island seems very beautiful and spectacular. Thanks for the attention.