Hilda Bernier 1862-137
Hilda Bernier
5 May 1862- 28 August 1937
Hilda was my great-grandmother. She was born, according to the marriage record, in 'River Du Lac', Canada, although I believe Trois Pistoles, L'Islet, Quebec is probably more accurate. Her parents were Francois Bernier and Marceline Pineau.
Hilda immigrated to the US when she was about 21 years old in 1883, most likely looking for work.
On 3 July 1885 in Dover, Strafford County, New Hampshire, Hilda, unmarried, gave birth to a son, William.
Hilda married Joseph Robert Arthur Giroux on 14 September 1886 in Portsmouth, Rockingham County, New Hampshire. The marriage record reflects Hilda's name as Hilda PERRY. No record of marriage prior to this one has been found so this is a mini-mystery for me.
On 5 February 1887 in Dover, Hilda's son, William, age 1 1/2, passed away from meningitis. The place of his burial is unknown. His birth and death certificates give no indication as to who his father was.
When the family was enumerated for the 1900 census, they were residents of Dover. The oldest child listed is William Giroux, born August 1884. I believe this is the same William. Possibly there was a misunderstanding when conveying information to the enumerator.
From what I understand was a strong matriarch for her family especially considering her husband passed away when there were still young children at home to rear.
Hilda was laid to rest at New Saint Mary's Cemetery along with her husband and several of her children.
My questions: Was Hilda married to someone named Perry in the very small amount of time between the birth of William Bernier and her marriage to Robert Giroux? If not, why was her name given as Hilda Perry at the time of her marriage?
Suggestions? Answers?

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