Ellen Ainscough was born around 1873 in Blackrod, and was the daughter of Charles Ainscough (b. 1848) and Miriam O'Hara. In 1881, she was aged 8, was at school and was living at 61 Scot Lane in Aspull. In 1891 she was aged 18, was working as a pit brow girl and was living at 17 Holly Street, Aspull.

Sources
• 1. 1881 Census. 61 Scot Lane, Aspull. Ellen Ainscough. Daughter. Age 8. Scholar. Born Blackrod. • 2. 1891 Census. 17 Holly Street, Aspull. Ellen Ainscough. Daughter. Age 18. Pit Brow Girl. Born Blackrod.