Background
Capern was born at Tiverton, Devonshire.
Capern was born at Tiverton, Devonshire.
From an early age he worked in a lace factory. His failing eyesight forced him to abandon this occupation in 1847 and he was in dire distress until he secured an appointment to be "the Rural Postman of Bideford," by which name he is usually known. His wages were 10s. 6d. a week.
