Not very much about Henry's early life was known. Not even his date of birth! Hudson was thought to be from Hoddersdon, England. English merchants sponsored voyages when Hudson was a young man. Historians believe his family was part or a group of merchants that sent several ships in search of a northern passage to Asia. The group was named the Merchants Adventures. His grandfather was probably one of the main founders. Henry later got married (before the voyages) to his wife Katherine. Later, had three children: Richard, Oliver, and John.