As we turn the page to the next chapter in Joseph Newell's life, we step into a new season, one marked by both the quiet passage of time and the weight of unspoken promises. The years that follow his early life will reveal the man he becomes, the husband, the father, the individual whose choices … Continue reading The Life Of Joseph Newell 1783-1860 Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation.
52 Ancestors Chellange, Updates
“The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
Welcome to “The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.” His story is a journey through the fragments of history that have been pieced together through old records, documents, and archives, a journey to better understand the life of my paternal great-grandfather, Frederick Ernest Carr. Like so many of us, I … Continue reading “The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
“Part 2 of The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 Until Death Do Us Part.”
As I embark on the second chapter of Stephen Withers' life story, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought us to this point, a journey marked by love, labor, and an unwavering commitment to family. In the first part of his tale, we traced the early years of this man born into … Continue reading “Part 2 of The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 Until Death Do Us Part.”
The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 The Early Years.
In the quiet corners of history, amidst the yellowed pages of parish records and the labyrinthine trails of ancestral research, lies the remarkable tale of my paternal 3rd Great Grandfather, Stephen Withers. Born in 1831 and departing this world in 1916, his life spans an era of profound change and endurance.Navigating through the annals of … Continue reading The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 The Early Years.
The Life of Frank Whitlock/Whitelock 1846–1922 Until Death Do Us Part.
With the turning of a page, we step into the second chapter of Frank Whitlock’s story, a story no longer just of boyhood and the steady beat of rural life, but of love, commitment, and the quiet, sacred promise of “until death do us part.” As Part One traced the tender, often painful path of … Continue reading The Life of Frank Whitlock/Whitelock 1846–1922 Until Death Do Us Part.
Part Two: The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 Until Death Do Us Part.
The year was 1822, and Romsey remained the backdrop to John Withers’ unfolding life. Now a married man, bound to Mary Cole by the vows they had exchanged beneath the worn stone arches of their parish church, John stood on the threshold of a new chapter, one shaped not by the freedom of youth, but … Continue reading Part Two: The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of Elizabeth Wren 1831–1900 Until Death Do Us Part.
When Elizabeth Wren stepped into the church on that cool, spring morning in 1850, the air was thick with the quiet promise of forever. Her heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty as she stood before her groom, the man who would become her world. His eyes, warm and full of quiet devotion, … Continue reading The Life Of Elizabeth Wren 1831–1900 Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of Rosa Alice Freak 1877–1965, The Early Years, Revisited.
In the quiet corners of family lore, where whispered tales mingle with sepia-toned photographs, there exists a story woven through the fabric of time, the life of Rosa Alice Freak, my maternal 2nd great-grandmother. As I embark once again on this journey through her early years, I find myself drawn back not just by the … Continue reading The Life Of Rosa Alice Freak 1877–1965, The Early Years, Revisited.
The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 Till Death Do Us Part
As I continue to unravel the life of William Harry Freak, I find myself stepping deeper into the world he built for himself as a husband, father, and working man. When we last left him, he was a newlywed, standing at the threshold of marriage with Eliza Stockwell, his young bride, by his side. Their … Continue reading The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 Till Death Do Us Part
The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 The Early Years Through Documentation.
In the quiet corners of history, nestled within the yellowed pages of documents and faded photographs, lies the essence of William Harry Freak, a name that resonates through time and bloodlines, echoing with stories of courage, love, and the quiet strength of everyday life. Born in 1846, he embarked on a journey through an era … Continue reading The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 The Early Years Through Documentation.
“The Life Of Samuel Solomon Williams 1884–1912 Through Documentation.”
On the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, we remember not just a ship lost to the depths of the North Atlantic, but the thousands of lives taken with her, each one carrying hopes, struggles, and stories that still echo through time. Among those lost was a young fireman from Southampton named Samuel … Continue reading “The Life Of Samuel Solomon Williams 1884–1912 Through Documentation.”
The Life Of Eliza Mary Willats, 1867-1902, Through Documentation.
In the serene confines of Number 37, Charlotte Street, All Paul’s, Marylebone, a the illustrious Willats family welcomed a new member into their embrace. Within the walls of this residence, amidst the genteel air of Middlesex, a child was born, a child that would illuminate the lineage of our family with grace, poise, and an … Continue reading The Life Of Eliza Mary Willats, 1867-1902, Through Documentation.
The Life Of Walter James Willats, 1865-1929, Part 2, Until Death Do Us Part.
As we step back into the corridors of time, we find ourselves transported to the vibrant streets of London in the year 1897. A new chapter unfolds in the remarkable saga of Walter James Willats, our esteemed 3rd great granduncle and a titan of the London stock exchange. Join me as we delve deeper into … Continue reading The Life Of Walter James Willats, 1865-1929, Part 2, Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of Walter James Willats, 1865-1929, The Early Years.
In the quiet embrace of a family home, nestled within the heart of All Souls, Middlesex, a new chapter unfurled on an ominous Friday, the 13th of January, 1865. Within the walls of Number 37, Charlotte Street, Marylebone, a child was born, a child destined to inscribe his name into the annals of our family's … Continue reading The Life Of Walter James Willats, 1865-1929, The Early Years.
The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
In the quiet hum of 19th-century London, amidst the cobblestone streets and gaslit alleys, a story quietly unfolded, one that echoed through generations, whispered in the annals of our family's history. At the heart of this tale stood a man whose life, though a distant echo now, bore witness to an era of change, resilience, … Continue reading The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.
In the hallowed pages of history, there are chapters that demand to be revisited, stories that beckon us back for another glimpse into a life lived with purpose and heart. As we turn the page to Part 2 of "The Life of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 - Until Death Do Us Part," we step … Continue reading The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920.
In the quiet corners of our family's history, there lies a figure whose life's story has remained shrouded in the mists of time. As the years roll on, the tales of our ancestors tend to fade, becoming mere whispers carried by the winds of generations. But today, we embark on a journey to reclaim the … Continue reading The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920.
The Life Of, Henry Richard Willats, 1856-1922, Through Documentation.
In the dimly lit corners of history, where memories fade and stories are left untold, there exists an extraordinary life that has been hidden from the world for far too long. Today, I invite you to step back in time and embark on a poignant journey through the life of my 3rd Great-Granduncle, Henry Richard … Continue reading The Life Of, Henry Richard Willats, 1856-1922, Through Documentation.
The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.
Welcome back to the enthralling chronicles of the life story of my third great-grandfather. In Part 1, we delved into the early years of his existence, tracing his humble beginnings and the undoubtable challenges he must have encountered along the way. From those formative experiences, I am sure he developed a resilient spirit and an … Continue reading The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.
The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
In the annuals of our family history lies a tale, a story that resonates across time, traversing generations to touch our hearts today. As I continue to embark on my journey of discovery, I find myself drawn to the life of a remarkable individual, my third great-grandfather William George Willats, aka Biggun. He was more … Continue reading The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.
Every life story weaves together a unique blend of joy, sorrow, triumphs, and challenges. It is within these intricate threads that we discover the resilience and indomitable spirit of individuals who have faced life's trials head-on, leaving an indelible mark on their family's history. Life's unexpected twists can alter the course we had once envisioned, … Continue reading The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.
The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.
We live a world where change is constant, the unexpected lurks around every corner, and life never fails to surprise us. Throughout our lives, we often find ourselves entangled in the ebb and flow of circumstances beyond our control. As human beings, we strive for stability, seeking solace in the familiar and predictable. But deep … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.
The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.
Welcome back, to the captivating journey through time and heritage as we continue to unravel the intricate puzzle of my ancestral legacy. In this second instalment, we delve deeper into the remarkable life of my third great-grandmother Susan Mary Kirby nee Lagden, and explore the documents and challenges she faced as a married women. As … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.
The Life Of Honora Carroll 1827-1872, Through Documentation.
Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.” - Jane Howard. So many years have passed since I started looking into the lives of my ancestors, not once did I ever think I would actually be able … Continue reading The Life Of Honora Carroll 1827-1872, Through Documentation.
Meet The O’Connors – The Bairns of, John Cornelius O’Connor.
My love for genealogy is fuelled by my determination to discover the truth behind our mysterious O’Connors. My passion is at its fullest when it comes to them. They are my biggest headache and my greatest love. I’m not entirely sure what fuels that passion, was it the incredibly kind, loving heart of my, Great … Continue reading Meet The O’Connors – The Bairns of, John Cornelius O’Connor.
The Hunt For, John Cornelius O’Connors, Birth Index And Birth Certificate, 1872.
Even though I still very much believe that our, John Cornelius O’Connor, was born in County Kerry, Ireland, I have been following a possible paper trail for the, O’Connor family. After trolling the birth index’s I came across two birth index’s, one for, John’s brother, Thomas, and another for John. Both give the mothers maiden … Continue reading The Hunt For, John Cornelius O’Connors, Birth Index And Birth Certificate, 1872.
52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Jesse Townsend, 1835 – Update
My maternal 3rd Great Grandfather, Jesse Townsend, is one of my ancestors who has stolen my heart. Of course he has to be one of the hardest people to trace, especially his beginnings. Even though I have managed to trace him through the census’s, found his marriage, know who his children are and even what … Continue reading 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Jesse Townsend, 1835 – Update
The Life Of Charlotte Feltham 1844-1899
I feel the overpowering need to document the lives of our ancestors, because if the facts are written, there is a slim chance they will never be forgotten. That their lives have somehow imprinted upon those who read their stories. Even though I can never fill these pages with our own memories or their personalities, … Continue reading The Life Of Charlotte Feltham 1844-1899
The Life Of Thomas Kirby 1831-1911
You have to find something that you love enough to be able to take risks, Jump over the hurdles and break through the brick wallsthat are always going to be placed in front of you. If you don't have that kind of feeling for what it is you're doing, you'll stop at the first giant … Continue reading The Life Of Thomas Kirby 1831-1911
Eileen Mary Kirby, Update – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks.
It’s been a while since I updated any information to my 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, but with the release of the “1921 census” last week, I’m hoping to update when I can. Unfortunately the 1921 census is pay-per-view even if you have a membership with, Find My Past, as I do. I must say … Continue reading Eileen Mary Kirby, Update – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks.
John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Continues.
If you read Stacey’s guest blog, “Your feet will bring you where your heart is”, you may remember that she has been in contact with Co. Kerry library and they have kindly been looking into our, John Cornelius O’Connor, for us, in hopes of tracking his roots down. Stacey and I were extremely excited when … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Continues.
John Cornelius O’Connor -Update
When I first started my blog back in January 2018, its main purpose was to document my family history, through completing a 52 week challenge, about my ancestors. A year on, I’ve done just that and boy I’m glad I did. I feel pretty pleased and a little proud that I managed to complete it … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor -Update
Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 3 – Memories
I can’t believe I’m at the end of my “52 Ancestors" challenge. At times I thought I would never get here. It’s been extremely hard work, time-consuming, blooming expensive, but most of all it’s been an absolute pleasure. I’ve also learnt a lot about myself along the way. I’ve learnt that my spelling is still … Continue reading Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 3 – Memories
Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 2
Welcome back to the life of Reginald George Wilfred Willats (Reg) and Eileen May Willats Nee O'Connor, my Great-Grandparents. Its the year 1928, in the City of Southampton in Hampshire, England. The city is well paved, sewered and lighted, and has an excellent water supply, a fine sanatorium, a municipal dispensary and a school clinic. … Continue reading Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 2
Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 3
Welcome back to the life of We left Harry back in 1944, working as management for The Peacock Hotel, a Grade II Listed Building in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, while he was taking a break from the music halls. Dick aka Harry, first appeared back in the tabloids on, October 24 1947. Sadly, this is where Dicks … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 3
Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 2
Welcome back to the life of Harry Richard Thomas Willats, also known as our One Any Only 🎭Dick Montague🎭 Last week I told you all about his life as Harry, this week we travel back in time and see a snippet of his life as Dick Montague, through the tabloids. It may be a little … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 2
Brett Howard Montague Willats – Update.
Just a little update for you as promised in last weeks 52 Ancestors post about Harry Richard Thomas Willats, which you can find here. I have received his son's birth certificate and can now clarify Brett's date of birth and birth information. Brett Herbert Montague Willats was born on August 9, 1953, at King Edward … Continue reading Brett Howard Montague Willats – Update.
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part 3
Welcome back to the life of, Harry Herbert Willats (Money). We left Harry back in 1911, Margate, were he was performing with his “White Stars Concert Party,” married to Eleanor Willats Nee Kirby. They have had three children, Harry, Doris and Reginald. Baby Doris, passed away leaving a family of four, living the life of … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part 3
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part Two.
Welcome back to the life of our one and only Harry Herbert Willats and the year 1899, in the southeast town, Margate, known for its sandy beach and entertainment on the pier. Harry Herbert Willats, performed there, at the Hall by the sea, for the annual benefit of the manager, Mr Wm. Sanger (Documented in … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part Two.
Sarah Scarrott, Update.
After a short wait and checking my inbox every two minutes, Sarah’s death certificate arrived. In truth I wasn’t convinced it was going to be the right one, so I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be correct. I can happily now tell you, how and when, Sarah's journey through life ended. Sarah … Continue reading Sarah Scarrott, Update.
Alice Maria Money – Update.
Me again, just a small update for you. The two certificates I was waiting for have arrived, unfortunately it seems the yet again, it’s the wrong birth for, Alice Maria Money. The hunt will have to continue. However the death certificate for, Mary Ann Money nee Skeleton, Alice's mother is correct and I can confirm … Continue reading Alice Maria Money – Update.
Stockwell Angels – Elizabeth Wren, 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 34 Update.
Certificates have been floating in, in dribs and drabs throughout the last few days, all apart from one which I was refunded for. My 3rd Great Grandmothers, Eliza Stockwell, original birth record is in too poor condition to be sent as a pdf, which is such a shame, as I am slowly buying all my … Continue reading Stockwell Angels – Elizabeth Wren, 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 34 Update.
Elizabeth Wren – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 34
Through dusty documentation, census records, birth marriage and death indexes we are incredibly lucky to be able to trace, the one whom gave us life, whom fought battles, faces heartbreak and struggled through life. This weeks ancestor one of the saddest, heartbreaking lives, of my ancestors. She’s pretty incredible as is her husband. How they … Continue reading Elizabeth Wren – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 34
Mary Ann, Charlotte & Tom Pointer – 52 Ancestor In 52 Weeks Update.
The long-awaited birth and death certificates, arrived in my inbox yesterday and I can now share the information with you. Mary Ann Pointer, was born on the 29th January 1840 at Sherfield English, Hampshire, England. Her birth was registered on the 15th February 1840, by her Mother, Harriet Pointer nee Brown. Harriet signed with an … Continue reading Mary Ann, Charlotte & Tom Pointer – 52 Ancestor In 52 Weeks Update.
Nellie Montague / Eleanor Mary Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 30 – Part 2
The Music Hall, which is in no thing, but makes use of everything gestures, sounds, words, screams, light, darkness, rediscovers itself at precisely the point where the mind requires a language to express its manifestations. To break through language in order to touch life is to create or recreate the Music Hall. How I would … Continue reading Nellie Montague / Eleanor Mary Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 30 – Part 2
Eleanor Mary Kirby – Update
Whoop, Whoop, Whoop, Whoop. It’s been a long time coming but FINALLY I broke down Eleanor’s brick wall and I’m chuffed to bits. Seriously I’m doing a massive victory dance. The lady that mesmerises me, finally has an end to her story and I can even say that it looks like a “Happy Ever After.” … Continue reading Eleanor Mary Kirby – Update
Alfred Newell – Update
Just a little update as promised. Alfred Newell and Sarah Watts nee Tigg, marriage certificate, finally arrived. It took its time that’s for sure but I can now confirm that Alfred Newell married his second wife Sarah Emily, on the 13th March 1915, at The Abbey Congregational Church, Romsey Hampshire, England, now known as the … Continue reading Alfred Newell – Update
Susan Mary Lagden, Update.
Just a quick update for you. Last Friday I told you all about, Susan Mary Kirby nee Lagden but I was waiting on four certificates, for two of Susan’s and Alfred’s angel baby’s, Alice Maud Olive Kirby and Richard Arthur Kirby. Their birth and death certificates finally arrived in my inbox this morning. As promised here … Continue reading Susan Mary Lagden, Update.
John Sweet 1888 – Update
Just a quick update for you. I have just received, John Sweet’s, birth and death certificates, which confirm he was the son of Emily Sweet Nee Forhead and Edward Sweet. John Sweet was born on the 27th May 1888, at 3 High Street, Freshwater, Isle of Wight, Hampshire, England. John died two days later on … Continue reading John Sweet 1888 – Update
Elizabeth Grace Gibbs Porter – Update
Just a little update to tell you, I have found the burial for Elizabeth Grace Gibbs Porter and her husband, George Frederick Sweet. They were buried at Ryde New Cemetery, Ryde, Isle of Wight, Hampshire, in section K, Plot 3632. Their Headstone inscriptions are - IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY DEAR HUSBAND GEORGE SWEET, DIED … Continue reading Elizabeth Grace Gibbs Porter – Update
Emily Shinkfield – Update.
I have now received the certificates that I was waiting for, for last weeks 52 Ancestors in 52 weeks, challenge, about Emily Shinkfield. Emily’s death certificate confirms that she was is buried at, Southampton Old Cemetery, Southampton, in Row C, Block 173, Number 68, along with my dads ancestors, Ethel Ellen, John Henry and Matilda Hatcher. … Continue reading Emily Shinkfield – Update.
Susan Luke Update
I finally received the birth certificates for Susan Luke’s daughters, Fanny Luke and Mary Ann Luke. Both confirm that no father is named even though they were both christened as Hatcher and their father being Charles Hatcher. Fanny Luke was born on the 8th of December 1843 at Lockerley, Hampshire, England. Susan Luke registered Fanny’s … Continue reading Susan Luke Update
Caleb George Hatcher
While I was researching my great-grandmother Eva Kate Hatcher’s life for my 52 Ancestors in 52 weeks challenge, I discovered that she had a brother Caleb George Hatcher who died at 10 months old due to a fit of convolutions brought on by teething. I was absolutely horrified when I received his death certificate, I … Continue reading Caleb George Hatcher
Horace Lennan Willats – Update.
This morning I finally received two pdf certificates for Horace Lennan Willats His birth certificate. And his death certificate. Cause of death - From compression of the brain due to haemorrhage inside the skull caused by accidental wounds to the head from the premature bursting of a grenade whilst engaged in bombing practice on December 17 … Continue reading Horace Lennan Willats – Update.
Round of Beef – Estella Rudgely Update
At the weekend we were driving to a little family get together, we had to drive a different much longer route out of the hamlet we live in due to railway works, shutting the main road in and out of East and West Dean. I was talking away to my boys about the difference places … Continue reading Round of Beef – Estella Rudgely Update
Intwined 