Alfred's father, George Tennyson was the rector of Somersby and Bag Enderby and was know as 'Dr. Tennyson.' George lost his inheritance to his younger brother, and was forced by his father to enter the church even though he had no real calling. He adapted well to life as a country parson. In 1805, George married Elizabeth Fyche who was the daughter of the Vicar of Louth. Ten of their children were born at Somersby rectory. Alfred was born on 1809 August 06 at Somersby, he was the fourth of 12 children.