Aged 40 in 1841, abode Cox Green, Turton
Aged 53 in 1851, born Withnell
Aged 63 in 1861, born Withnell (wife Ann born Turton)
Aged 71 in Nov 1861 (when died)
There is no Turton baptism for Robert, and for a time was believed to be the son of James Mather and Betty Knowles (still possible) because he was living at Top O'th' Lane (the Lane leading to Top of Turton) in 1827 and Cock's Green in 1833-1836. Both residences are adjacent to Goose Cote Hill where James and Betty lived. However, 1851 and 1861 census shows he was born at Withnell, near Tockholes.
It was then thought likely Robert is the son of Robert and Peggy from Tockholes, with Peggy being his first daughter. He would have been baptised at Walmsley Presbyterian, but the records for this period are lost. However, they already had a Robert (1792-1816), so cant be theirs. Instead, Peggy could be named from Ann's parents (Thomas & Peggy).
There's a Robert, baptised 5 Nov 1809 at Brindle, son of Jonathan and Catherine Mather of Withnell, probably related, but this Robert is 13 years too young to match the census. The 1797 baptism son of Ellen however is a perfect fit!
Name: Robert Mather
Birth Date: 2 Sep 1797
Baptism Date: 24 Sep 1797
Parish: Chorley, St Laurence, Lancashire, England
Mother's name: Ellen Mather
Register Type: Parish Register
Reference Number: 27
Abode: Withnell