William james Martin was born at North Wells, Norfolk, around 1867, tp parents James William and Mary Jane Martin.
The 1871 Census shows James (a Solicitor's Clerk) and Mary (born in Dorset), living near Carlisle with their five children; Henry George (aged 10), Edwin Charles (9), William James (4), Valper (3), and new-born Alfred Sterens.
On March 12th, 1888, William was awarded his Second Mate certificate, or "Ticket" [Cert. No.019385].
William married Elizabeth Ann Leffaze (date unknown), and were living at No.4, Mulgrave Road, West Hartlepool, at the time of his death.
