What was a Private Secretary in the early 1800's.....

And It Makes Me Shine · Post by **And It Makes Me Shine** » Mon May 29, 2006 4:59 pm

I have found a death certificate for my GGGGG Grandfather and his fathers occupation is listed as private secretary. ANyone have any ideas he would have lived somewhere in Ulster and was protestant. I only mention this because I have an inkling he might have been involved in the Church of England.

Russell · Post by **Russell** » Mon Jun 05, 2006 12:42 pm

Hi

If he was connected to the English Church he could well have been Private Secretary to the Bishop of Ulster or similar exalted position.
The modern Personal Assistant is probably the closest you'll get to the functions of a Private Secretary back then. All men, since most women of letters did not work unless circumstances demanded it. Even then they would be Governess or Tutor or School teachers. Almost all businesses were run and owned by men other than where a widow took over from her husband or inherited a business.
Where a woman inherited cash or property which generted income she was often listed on the census as 'of independent means' which meant the parish would not have to support her!
It was a man's world then and it has not totally changed even now.

Russell