Ellen Maria Semmence was born in Hunstanton in 1835 and married butcher George Houchen (1835) on 31st March 1857, probably in Hingham. She was widowed in 1877. In 1881, she was living in Norwich Road, Hingham, and was a fancy goods shopkeeper. She was listed as a toy dealer in Hingham in 1883. In 1901 she was living on her own means at 71 Connaught Road, Heigham, together with her unmarried daughter, Ellen.

Sources
• 1. Bernie Houchin's data. George Howchin married Ellen Maria Semmence 31.3.1857. • 2. 1881 Census. Norwich Road, Hingham. Ellen M. Howchin. Head. Widow. Age 46. Born Hunstanton. Fancy Shopkeeper. • 3. 1901 Census. 71 Connaught Road, Heigham. Eliza [sic[ M Houchin. Head. Widow. Age 66. Born ... Norfolk. Living On Own Means.