Who When Where

Joseph Viggars was born about 1776 and his wife Martha about 1781. Both were born in Staffordshire.

The 1841 census shows them living in Halmer End, Audley, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, England.

Now comes my question. Under 'Occupation' it seems to say 'Ind' which to me suggests Independent means. They live amongst coal miners and whilst it may of course be possible that he was of independent means, it looks a little out of place.

Am I reading the entry correctly and is that really what is meant by the term in this instance?

They are in their mid-sixties, so not unusual to be retired by then. If they were not in need of parish relief, could well be classed as independant, i.e. not requiring outside help. Me thinks you are reading too much into the term