In 1861 and 1871 Alfred's father Joseph was a Ship Smith. He and Sarah are listed with the 8 children they had at that stage.
Elizabeth A. Briggs born Barking c1857
Sarah Jane b Barking c1859
Alice Emma b Barking c1861
Esther E. b Gorleston c1860
Clara b Gorleston c1863
Joseph b Gorleston c1867
Mary Ann b Gorleston c1869
Robert W. 8 months b Gorleston c1871
Marian