Maria was born in Maderia around 1878, but lived in Trinidad and Guyana. Maria's family left Maderia during the time of the vine blights and we understand that the ship they were travelling on (possibly to Brazil?) was wrecked in a storm. We have no knowledge of her parents but think she may have had a brother. Her married name was Fernandes but we do not know her husband's Christian name.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.