Jonah was the son of Alexander Macdonald b.1857, a tool fitter, and Berthina Macdonald b.1858.

He first appeared on the 1901 Census living at 1 Frederick Street, Bolton with his parents and siblings Berthina b.1879, Jeannie b.1881, Eleanor b.1883, Elizabeth b.1885, Alexander b.1888, Jessie b.1895.

In 1911 the family were living at 29 John Street, Bolton. Alexander was no longer present - or noticed - as the Census reported only six children having been born and none having died! Jonah was employed as a side piecer in a cotton mill in 1911.