Thomas Chrisfield (b 1806 d. 1902) was born to a poor family. His mother taught him basic literacy. When he was old enough he found employment on a whaling vessel. Over the next decades he worked his way up and eventually owned his own ship. Then his own fleet.

He married Joanna in 1837. As a wedding gift, two houses were planned to be built. Only one was; Chrisfield Manor. While Thomas was out on his whaling trips. Joanna becane the head of the social scene of Maundbury.

They had four children. Thomas Jr . John , Alexander , and Emily.Mari M 19:56, August 8, 2011 (UTC)