David Stephens was the third son born to Benjamin and Elizabeth. David was born in about 1895 in Nelson, according to 1911 census. His siblings, four in number, were brothers who were:
Alfred Frederick, born in Nelson in about 1891
William John, born in Treharris in about 1893
Benjamin, born in Nelson in about 1898 and
Brynley, born in Nelson in about 1903.

In 1911, Frederick, William and David were all shown as coal miners - hewers, even though David was only 16 years of age. Their father, Benjamin (Snr) was also shown as working in a coal mine, as a mine repairer. The family at this time were living at 32 Bontnewydd Terrace, Trelewis.

Benjamin Stephens married Elizabeth Pugh in the first quarter of 1889. Elizabeth originated from Nelson and was born there in about 1866. Benjamin was born in about 1860, but according to 1911 census, came from The Plump, Gloucestershire which is probably Plumpton, Gloucestershire.

In 1901 the family were living at 27 Ty-Llwyd Terrace, Quakers Yard.