Edward understated his age throughout the Censuses. The GROE Death Index indicates that he died aged 70; his gravestone shows he was 72 years of age when he died. As such, it seems reasonable to assume that Edward is synonymous with Edward christened on 11 Dec 1803 in Maidstone, which would mean that he was closer to 74 when he died.
Edward was, like his father, a blacksmith, and Edward's eldest son was named Thomas.
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"[On the 20th inst.], Wm. Newick was charged before the same Magistrate [James Jacobson, Esq.], with stealing two pigs, the property of Edward Styants, of Hunton. Prisoner was committed for trial at the Assizes."
Maidstone Gazette and Kentish Courier, January 26, 1830.
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At the time of the 1851 England Census Edward Styance, age 40, born in East Farleigh, blacksmith, and wife Rebecca, age 41, born in Yalding, were living in Loose Street, Loose, Kent. Present were children: Mary (19) of Yalding, Thomas (17) of Linton, farm labourer, William (13) of Hunton, Elizabeth (9) of East Farleigh, scholar, Charlotte (7) of Loose, scholar, Mercy (2) of Loose.
At the time of the 1861 England Census Edward 'Stiles', age 48, born in Farleigh, blacksmith, married, was lodging in Trosley Street, Trottiscliffe, Kent.
At the time of the 1871 England Census Edward Styance, age 64, born in Farleigh, blacksmith, and wife Rebecca, age 63, born in Yalding, were living in Coxheath Rd., Loose, Kent. Present were children (unmarried): William (33) of Hunton, ag lab, Elizabeth (29) of Farleigh, needlewoman, Mercy (22) of Loose, parlor maid.
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Tombstone inscription:
"Jesus saith I am the resurrection and the life"
In Loving Memory of Edward STYANCE
who died December 29th 1877
Aged 72 years
Also Rebecca his beloved wife
who died December 1st 1878
Aged 70 years
"The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want"
Left surviving 2 sons and 4 daughters, viz: Thomas, William, Mary Ann, Sarah Ann, Elizabeth and Mercy. 5
Orthographic variation STYANTS