1889 Jul 6 born Clifftop, Fayette County, West Virginia, USA of William and Catherine Nelson (nee Brown). William was a Miner
1891 census at Sorn, Ayrshire. Born West Virginia
| Household Members | Age | Relationship |
|---|---|---|
| William Nelson | 36 | Head |
| William Brown | 19 | Stepson (Step Son) |
| Annie Nelson | 14 | Daur (Daughter) |
| Archibald Nelson | 11 | Son |
| Maggie Nelson | 9 | Daur (Daughter) |
| Reb Nelson | 7 | Daur (Daughter) |
| Mary Nelson | 3 | Daur (Daughter) |
| John Nelson | 1 | Son |
1901 cenus at Sorn, Ayr
| Household Members | Age | Relationship |
|---|---|---|
| William Brown | 29 | Head |
| Jane Brown | 28 | Wife |
| William Brown | 5 | Son |
| Agnes Brown | 2 | Daur (Daughter) |
| James Brown | 6mo | Son |
| John Nelson | 12 | Half Brother |
| John Gray | 19 | Boarder |
1905 Jan 6 He joins Militia - 3rd Royal Scots Fusiliers
1905 Jun 19 Purchased his discharge
1921 Jun 1 enlisted with RIC no 81313 Miner & ex-soldier
1921 Jun 3 dismissed - unsuitable