We’ve got a family albumLike a family treeA thrill to turn the pagesThe pictures we can see Starting off with grands and greatsThen slowly down the lineLike a book of historyA journey through the time Fashions start to alterMustaches come and goLadies skirts skip up and downA proper fashion show Top hats change to boatersTo caps … Continue reading The Life of Mary O’Connor, 1831-1895, Through Documentation.
52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks.
Years and years of researching, putting the tiny pieces together, untangling the twisted, entwined branches of our family’s history
We’ve worked hard on our genealogy. We’ve made some fantastic discoveries.
But what do you actually do with it?
Who actually gets to read all about the life’s of the people who gave us life, who fought wars, suffered famine, survived the workhouse, escaped poverty, discovered new lands.
Those humbling discoveries don’t do much good just sitting in your bookcase, in folders, on an ancestry tree or in files on computer.
That’s where 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks comes in to play.
After reading an article by Amy Johnson Crow (amyjohnsoncrow.com) our minds raced with the possibility of sharing little snippet into our ancestors life’s. Hours later this blog was born.
As with ours and our ancestors life’s, the pages of life are empty ones, waiting patiently to be filled with our journey to discovering who we really are, where we came from and where we are going.
Our ancestors lived so we could live, they fought hardships so we can have a better, more comfortable life, a life with power at our fingertips.
Those names scribbled on paper or typed into a tree, they are part of us, our host, our DNA, our blood and our spirits.
They should not be forgotten so each week for the next 52 weeks, we hope to share a snippet into the life of one of our ancestors, letting their story’s once again come to life, remembering them and letting them live on in our memories, in our pages of life.
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.
The Life Of Ann Arter 1847-1894, Through Documentation.
What the next generation will value most. is not what we owned, but the evidence of who we were and the tales of how we lived. In the end, it’s the family stories that are worth the storage.” — Ellen Goodman After so many, many years of searching for the parents of my maternal great, … Continue reading The Life Of Ann Arter 1847-1894, Through Documentation.
The Life Of Jane Smith, Through Documentation, 1815-1855
We don't know when our name came into being or how some distant ancestor acquired it. We don't understand our name at all, we don't know its history and yet we bear it with exalted fidelity, we merge with it, we like it, we are ridiculously proud of it as if we had thought it … Continue reading The Life Of Jane Smith, Through Documentation, 1815-1855
The Life Of Annie Dorothy O’Connor – 1879-1954
"I just want young people to embrace where they come from, be proud of it, and share their family's history. This country was built on beautiful stories of heritage,". ©️Zendaya. I’ve been fascinated by my Great, Great, Grandfather, John Cornelius O’Connor, from the very first time I heard his name and how he was born … Continue reading The Life Of Annie Dorothy O’Connor – 1879-1954
The Life Of Walter George Hillier 1867-1946, Part 3.
"Family should be the place where you can be your most complete self. Where you're accepted and appreciated, seen and valued, even in moments of disagreement. It should be your soft place to fall, the place where you're reminded that no matter what happens to you, in the face of your deepest challenges, you are … Continue reading The Life Of Walter George Hillier 1867-1946, Part 3.
The Life Of Walter Hillier, 1867-1946, Part 2.
Welcome back to the life of Walter George Hillier. Before we begin, let’s have a quick reminder of what has happened so far in Walters life. Walter George Hillier, aka the Governor, was born on Tuesday the 3rd of September, 1867, at Tapnage, Titchfield, Hampshire, England, to Walter Hillier and Caroline Hillier nee Abraham. Walters … Continue reading The Life Of Walter Hillier, 1867-1946, Part 2.
The Life Of Walter George Hillier, 1867-1946
We are the ancestors of our grandchildren's children. We look after them, just as our ancestors look after us. We aren't here for ourselves. We are here for each other and for the children of our grandchildren. Our ancestors are totally essential to our every waking moment, although most of us don't even have the … Continue reading The Life Of Walter George Hillier, 1867-1946
The Life Of Elizabeth Hillier 1844-1932
Caring can be learned by all human beings, can be worked into the design of every life, meeting an individual need as well as a pervasive need in society. ©️Mary Catherine Bateson There are very few that give themselves soulfully to others. Dedicating their lives to the care and understanding, that so many of us … Continue reading The Life Of Elizabeth Hillier 1844-1932
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.
The Life of Rosina Margaret O’Connor 1884-1939
We inherit from our ancestors gifts so often taken for granted. Each of us contains within this inheritance of soul. We are links between the ages, containing past and present expectations, sacred memories and future promise. – Edward Sellner I’m sure by now, you are well aware of my love for genealogy, but more so … Continue reading The Life of Rosina Margaret O’Connor 1884-1939
The Life Of William Charles Williams 1807-1881
What I love about genealogy is, it leads you down paths walked by not only your ancestors but many others incredible human beings. Fairly often while researching our own heritage, I side step and research the partners, husbands, wife’s, in-laws and siblings and their families of our ancestors. Some say there isn’t a need to … Continue reading The Life Of William Charles Williams 1807-1881
The Life of Christian Luke, 1808-1895- Part Three, The Bigamist.
Welcome back to the life of Christian, now known as Christian Kemish nee Collins nee Luke. Let’s have a recap of what we know about her life so far. Christian was born in Lockerley, Hampshire, in the year, 1808, to Moses Luke, son of Moses Luke and Hannah Luke nee Grey and Catherine Kitty Mason, daughter of Jonathan Mason and Catherine Southwell. She was … Continue reading The Life of Christian Luke, 1808-1895- Part Three, The Bigamist.
The Life of Christian Luke – 1808 – 1895 – Part 2.
Welcome back to the life of Christian, now known as Christian Kemish nee Collins nee Luke. Let’s have a recap of what we know about her life so Far. Christian was born in Lockerley, Hampshire, England, in the year 1808 to Moses Luke, and Catherine Kitty Mason.She was baptised at, The church of St. John The Evangelist, … Continue reading The Life of Christian Luke – 1808 – 1895 – Part 2.
The Life Of Christian Luke – 1808-1895
Come, look with me inside this drawer, In this box I've often seen, At the pictures, black and white, Faces proud, still, and serene. I wish I knew the people, These strangers in the box, Their names and all their memories, Are lost among my socks. I wonder what their lives were like, How did they spend their days? What about their special … Continue reading The Life Of Christian Luke – 1808-1895
The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861 – 1915, Part 3 – The Final Chapter.
Welcome back to the life of, Alice Southwell. Before we begin, let’s have a little recap of her life so far. Or you can read part 1 here and part 2 here.Alice was born at, East Wellow, on Thursday the 19th of December 1861. From the age of 9, Alice worked for her maternal uncle, William Reeves, at the Angel Inn, … Continue reading The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861 – 1915, Part 3 – The Final Chapter.
The Life Of Alice Southwell 1861-1889 – Part 2.
Welcome back to the life of, Alice Southwell. Before we being let’s have a little recap of her life so far. Or you can read part 1 here.Alice was born at, East Wellow, on Thursday the 19th of December 1861. From the age of 9, Alice worked for her maternal uncle, William Reeves, at the … Continue reading The Life Of Alice Southwell 1861-1889 – Part 2.
The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861-1915, Part 1.
When we were young aging seemed like funWe couldn't wait until the age was doneWe then hit our teens and with life cameSome responsibility but still lots of games.And so the twenty's were realizedAnd we found we had to get organized. And before you knew it we hit the big three o!A party was had, … Continue reading The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861-1915, Part 1.
The Life Of Harry James Butt 1858-1911
“Razors pain you, rivers are damp, acids stain you, and drugs cause cramp. Guns aren't lawful, nooses give, gas smells awful, you might as well live.” - Dorothy Parker. No matter the years that pass, one thing hasn’t changed, the ability to admit to oneself that, you need a helping hand. Depression, Anxiety, and other … Continue reading The Life Of Harry James Butt 1858-1911
The Life Of Charlotte Vaughan – 1833-1902
“Remember me in the family treeMy name, my days, my strife;Then I’ll ride upon the wings of timeAnd live an endless life.” –Linda Goetsch As I fill this tiny corner of the inter-web with my ramblings and the life stories of our ancestors, the true meaning of family, really could not mean more to me … Continue reading The Life Of Charlotte Vaughan – 1833-1902
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
Chapter 1 – January 2022
Winter has always been my favourite season. Though grey and dull, it’s own special light illuminates the world unlike any other season. From The purity of the shimmering frost, to the mesmerising flicker of the blue flame dancing in the fire grate, these magical elements somehow turns the dreariness of winter into the feeling of … Continue reading Chapter 1 – January 2022
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
Mr Reginald and Mrs Eileen Willats – Part 1 – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52
Have you ever felt really close to someone, So close that you can't understand why you and the other person have two separate bodies, two separate skins? My maternal Great-Grandparents love for each other wasn’t just a love of the heart but a love of the soul, an eternal love, a love unbreakable even through … Continue reading Mr Reginald and Mrs Eileen Willats – Part 1 – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52
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 Richard Thomas Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51
I’m sure you may recognise the name, "Harry Richard Thomas Willats," by now, his name has popped up a good few times over my "52 week challenge" and this week I finally get to tell you a little about him. I’m not going to go into the history of the name "Willats" as you can … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51
Jesse Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 50
Peace is the beauty of life. It is sunshine. It is the smile of a child, the love of a mother, the joy of a father, the togetherness of a family. (Menachem Begin) Ever since I saw this photograph of my four maternal Great-Grandparents, Reginald George Wilfred Willats, Jesse Edward Townsend, Bessie Eva Annie Sweet … Continue reading Jesse Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 50
Andrew Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 49
It's funny how as you grow older, your history becomes so much more important. Those small details hold greater meaning and you begin to relate your own life and personality to the ones that came before you. As I have mentioned in other posts, our family have always had a passion and deep love for … Continue reading Andrew Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 49
Kate Withers – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 48
I am the first to admit, I knew very little about my Dad’s family. It’s the reason I started researching my family history. The December of 1996, my hero, my Dad was in a horrific accident which would end his life the following April of 1997. Little did we know he had left, us three … Continue reading Kate Withers – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 48
Eliza Cameron – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 47
The Mysteries are gateways, thresholds between this world and the Otherworld, the meeting place of gods and people. Family history is just a gigantic mystery waiting to be solved and this weeks ancestor has a good few, well hidden, missing pieces to her puzzle. 🧩 Although I know a great deal about her family, her … Continue reading Eliza Cameron – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 47
Alfred Wheeler – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 46
We may all wish, that we came from royalty or some famous hero, but I am pretty happy to say I come from, hard-working humble roots. Ancestors whom worked the land, the mines and helped build our towns or cities, roads etc. This weeks ancestor made a working class, honest living, and that’s just fine … Continue reading Alfred Wheeler – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 46
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.
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 45 – Part 1
A while ago, I told you all the story of, one of my favourite ancestors, Eleanor Mary Kirby aka Nellie Montague. Since childhood I’ve had a magical picture of how wonderful Eleanor and her husband's life would have been, how much in love they were, you know one of those unbreakable loves, that no matter … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 45 – Part 1
Eliza Stockwell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
This weeks ancestor, is truly a tricky one, but very enjoyable to research. I've still not 100% cracked her puzzle but I'm getting close. I'm very lucky to have a photo of her, which unfortunately I can't really share with you as I was given it by a very kind, distant relative Hazel. It's funny … Continue reading Eliza Stockwell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
Catherine Fielder – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
From the beginning of my research, I have been fascinated with this weeks ancestor, as very little is known about her family. Her parents are a frustrating puzzle that never seems to let up and give me clues. Her Husband also fascinates me because his life before the age of six is a complete mystery … Continue reading Catherine Fielder – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
Moses Luke – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 43
I'll never forget where I'm from. It's essential to remain humble and evolving. I feel incredibly humble and proud of my roots. Although I wish my ancestors hadn’t lived through hard times, I wouldn’t wish for them to have come from Lords and Ladies. Those amazingly strong people worked incredibly hard, they held their heads … Continue reading Moses Luke – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 43
Catherine Southwell/Sutherell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 42
Southwell is a locational surname of Olde English and Anglo-Saxon pre 9th century origins. It derives from former residence at the town of Southwell in Nottinghamshire, or possibly from a place or places called originally 'sud waella', translating as the spring to the south. More interesting it’s the surname of my Husband maternal Great-Grandmother, Edith … Continue reading Catherine Southwell/Sutherell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 42
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.
Sarah Scarrott – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 41
When researching your family history you are limited to certain resources on-line, census returns, birth, marriage and death indexes, court and wills, immigration and emigration records, parish records, military records and newspaper articles. All that you pay through the nose for. It’s very expensive and time-consuming. Mistakes are made constantly, so unfortunately its better to … Continue reading Sarah Scarrott – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 41
Charles Frederick Joseph Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 40
Tradition lives because young people come along who catch its romance and add new glories to it. (Michael Novak) Gone are the days of what I call real craftsmanship, when everything was done/made by hand and not pumped out by the billions from a factory or huge machinery cutting the corps and ploughing the fields, … Continue reading Charles Frederick Joseph Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 40
William Lye – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 39.
A man who works with his hands is a labourer, a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman, but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist. ~Louis Nizer (1902–1994) A few of my male ancestors were artists, their paper, wood and … Continue reading William Lye – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 39.
Isaac Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 38
Our family has always had a love for the ocean, from the calm before the storm, to the waves crashing upon the shore, to the tranquility of the open waters. It’s almost like a pull, a pull from deep within our souls. Just to sit and listen as the ocean waters ripple as it mees … Continue reading Isaac Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 38
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.
Alice Maria Money – 52Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 37
I often talk about those tricky ancestors whom like to play a good old game of hide and seek, well this weeks ancestor is one of them, from different dates of birth to places of birth, and constant name changes, she’s not the easiest to pinpoint. And even though I can’t be 100% certain about … Continue reading Alice Maria Money – 52Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 37
Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 36
“When someone you love dies, and you’re not expecting it, you don’t lose them all at once; you lose them in pieces over a long time — the way the mail stops coming, and their scent fades from the pillows and even from the clothes in the closet and drawers. Gradually, you accumulate the parts … Continue reading Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 36
More than just a name.
Throughout my "52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks" challenge, I am writing about my ancestors, below are links to each family member I have written about so far. Carr - Frederick Earnest Henry Carr Forhead - Emily Freak - Rosa Alice Gibbs Porter - Elizabeth Grace Hatcher - Caleb George Eva Kate Kirby - Alfred Eleanor … Continue reading More than just a name.
Gillian Mary Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 35
Although I love researching our family history, I also find it very upsetting. The lives my ancestors lived were far from easy. Most lived humble poor or working class lives, living only to pay the bills, a way of life most of us in modern times still live by. While the rich, get richer, the … Continue reading Gillian Mary Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 35
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.
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.
Mary Ann Pointer – 52 Ancestors, 52 Weeks – Week 33
It’s been a while since I’ve wrote about this line of my paternal tree. This side always fascinates me as I have made so many new family connections. Throughout these connections I have made some wonderful friends, one in particular, I’m extremely grateful for the friendship that has formed. It’s uncanny how alike we are, … Continue reading Mary Ann Pointer – 52 Ancestors, 52 Weeks – Week 33
Alfred Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks -Week 32
Throughout my family research, so many of my ancestors have kept me on my toes, they’ve loved to play a good old game of hide and seek. The Kirby family especially like to play. I have big gaps in their history and a family rumour to clarify. My Nan Doreen Townsend nee Willats, was told … Continue reading Alfred Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks -Week 32
Charles Ridgeley/Rudge/Rudgely – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 31
Some say, your life is already planned out for you, on the day of your birth as is your death. If this is true, why do some skip happily through and other face heartbreak, misery and struggle. Why do some deserve the easy road and others the near on impossible roads? I don’t get it. … Continue reading Charles Ridgeley/Rudge/Rudgely – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 31
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
Eleanor Mary Kirby / Nellie Montague – 52 Ancestors in 52 Week – Week 29 – Part 1
I’m so excited to finally be able to tell you all about my Great, Great Granny, Eleanor Mary Kirby. She is probably my favourite ancestor. She’s intrigues me, even fascinates me. She’s also one of my hardest ancestors to research, even though as you’ll find out, she should be one of the easiest. Eleanor, is … Continue reading Eleanor Mary Kirby / Nellie Montague – 52 Ancestors in 52 Week – Week 29 – Part 1
Doris Eleanor Poppy Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 28
I always thought that my Great-Grandad, Reginald Willats, only had one sibling, Harry. How wrong was I. I’ve since discovered that he had a Sister called, Doris, and eight half siblings, who have given me endless questions, the need to know more and an overwhelming sadness for my Great, Great-Granny Eleanor. I will shed light … Continue reading Doris Eleanor Poppy Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 28
Andrew Rudgley/Rudge – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 27
Your name You got it from your father It was all he had to give So it's yours to use and cherish For as long as you may live If you lost the watch he gave you It can always be replaced; But a black mark on your name Can never be erased It was … Continue reading Andrew Rudgley/Rudge – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 27
Frank Rudgley/Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 26
In life we warm to some more than others, family research is no different. This weeks ancestor, holds a huge part of my heart, and even though I never met him, for some unknown reason he pulls on my heartstrings. He intrigues me and I just can’t help but love him. Maybe it’s the love, my Dad … Continue reading Frank Rudgley/Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 26
Stephen Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 25
The weeks seem to be moving so fast, I don’t get time to think, let alone research. With that in mind this week 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks, post is going to be more than a little different. For one this ancestor is living, which throws up lots of issues to do with privacy and … Continue reading Stephen Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 25
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
Ellen Tilley – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 24
Family history research isn’t easy, with one brick wall after another, it’s a little like life and all its challenges. So I thought this week I would do something a little different and share with you one of my hardest ancestors, a women who I am desperately trying to find out about, and unfortunately not … Continue reading Ellen Tilley – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 24
Alfred Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 23
In life some people go well and beyond what is expected, some love whole heartedly and some are our own personal heroes, that knight in shining armour whom we all dreamed about as children. I’m extremely lucky and proud to have an ancestor who gave all he could, loved with every inch of his heart … Continue reading Alfred Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 23
Frederick Earnest Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 22
Yesterday we said our final goodbyes to my Grandmother, Mollie Joan Newell nee Carr. Tears were shed, a life time of memories were remembered, our family brought together, in respect for a wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Although seeing my families hearts break at our loss, it was lovely to see them all and … Continue reading Frederick Earnest Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 22
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.
Susan Mary Lagden – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 21
Family researching can at times be easy, everything falling into place with out to much trouble. At others times it can leave you pulling your hair out, steam oozing from your ears and your computer heading at full speed towards the window. I have a good few branches of my tree, that leave me feeling … Continue reading Susan Mary Lagden – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 21
Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 20
Throughout this challenge, you may have noticed that I haven’t written about my Newell ancestors, today though I will break the silence, after all, Newell is my family name, my Dads name, my name. A name and family I’m extremely proud of, to be part of. In true open honesty, I’ve been in a battle … Continue reading Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 20
Anstice Long – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 19
We live in a word of documentation, knowledge at or fingertips, the government knowing every move we make, our mobile phones pinging our location to that huge data base that logs our location traveled, and while I’m not 100% convinced it’s a good thing, I understand the help it gives to find murders and crack … Continue reading Anstice Long – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 19
Harry Ashley Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 18
Some say, our life's and death's are planned out for us, the day we are born, that fate/destiny is the controlling factor. Some say, your life is what you make it. Neither can ever be proven, well not as far as I can see but I do believe fate plays the larger hand and with … Continue reading Harry Ashley Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 18
Harry Pearce – 52 Ancestors 52 Weeks – Week 17
We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, discovering we have the strength to stare it down. (Eleanor Roosevelt) From babes in arms we dream of a hero, the soul of all souls who will make everything different, who will shine brighter than … Continue reading Harry Pearce – 52 Ancestors 52 Weeks – Week 17
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
Emily Forhead – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 17
Life, Is it what happens to us ? or is it what we make it? I would like to believe that it’s the latter , but I also believe fate or our already written destiny has a huge role to play. Some peoples lives are one massive advantage, while others, sadly live to work, never … Continue reading Emily Forhead – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 17
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
Fanny Pearce – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 16
Some lives are easy, some are much harder, some are unbearable, riddled with heartbreak and sadness. Sadness only a mother and father can feel or understand. Death though inevitable, is cruel beyond any of our wildest dreams. It hunts us down with all its fury, leaving only rivers of tears behind. My Great, Great-Grandparents had … Continue reading Fanny Pearce – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 16
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.
Emily Shinkfield – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 15
Another week is over and I must admit, I am far from being ready or prepared to write this post. I've found it extremely hard to pick an ancestor to write about this week, I've also have had the bug from hell for over a week now and was very close to not writing a … Continue reading Emily Shinkfield – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 15
Katherine and Rosa Townsend – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks, Week 14.
The sun is out, the sky is blue, I’m sat at my computer writing to you. It’s that time again, time to share this weeks ancestor with you, week 14 of 52. This week is going to be a little bit different and I’ll almost be repeating myself but I’m so excited and humble about … Continue reading Katherine and Rosa Townsend – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks, Week 14.
Ethel May Wheeler – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 13.
Every day that passes we are making our own history, the love and friendship we give will forever be imbedded in our families hearts. We will leave our own little mark in this huge universe, though small, it will in its own right be powerful. Some of us will leave more than others, some will … Continue reading Ethel May Wheeler – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 13.
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
Susan Luke – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 12
The weeks seem to be flying by at the moment, I can not believe we are in April already. This weeks seems to have flown by even faster for some reason and I haven't achieved anything, I'm surprised I even got this post written in time. Unfortunately I can not share all the information I … Continue reading Susan Luke – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 12
Elizabeth Grace Gibbs Porter – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
Some ancestors are so much harder to trace than others and this weeks ancestor is no exception. She’s been a tricky one that’s for sure. I have a good few lines on my martial line, that have the highest, strongest, brick walls to break. The O’Connor family is with-out a shadow of a dealt the … Continue reading Elizabeth Grace Gibbs Porter – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
Henry Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
Week 10, only 42 to go. It has been a hard one this week, not the research but finding the energy to sit for hours upon hours, staring at a computer screen. When you feel a tad under the weather, its hard to stay focused, but more so, to have the willpower to carry on … Continue reading Henry Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
Rosa Alice Freak – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
So it’s week 9 of my challenge and I’m sorry to say this week is going to be a little different, in true honesty I’m really struggling with that fact. Up until I have been buying the birth certificates for each child born, which I’m hoping to carry on and do when possible. This week … Continue reading Rosa Alice Freak – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks
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
Eva Kate Hatcher – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
They say every branch of your family tree will tie in with another at some point. This has proven to be case with my dads family but more shockingly they tie in many times with my husband's family. I was shocked and a little freaked out when I discovered the first interlink with Mark's family. … Continue reading Eva Kate Hatcher – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
Alton Henry Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
It’s that time again, time for the next instalment of my 52 week challenge, I can’t believe we are on week 7 already. As you already know I’m going to writing about the brother of Horace Lennan Willats, I hope you enjoyed his story, well all of my posts so far. If you do please … Continue reading Alton Henry Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
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.
Horace Lennan Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors
My boys always say, "Why are you researching your history, it’s the past, live for the future?" While I agree on many levels, I also disagree. My family’s history is extremely important to me, why ? I don’t really know how to answer that, I don’t have the right words to explain it. All I … Continue reading Horace Lennan Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors
Elizabeth Grace Porter – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors
Elizabeth Grace Porter - Week 5. We all know to well that life is very good at throwing us endless stress, more bad days than good. Life is hard at times, truly hard. We all go through struggles, some days we cope, others we don’t cope as well. Not matter what happens in our lives, … Continue reading Elizabeth Grace Porter – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors
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
Estella Rudgely – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
Estella Rudgely - 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors, Week 4. When my dad Christopher John Newell passed away back in 1996, I knew very little about his family, only his parents and siblings names. In truth I didn’t even know he had a sister, Gillian Mary Newell, who sadly passed away on the 18th October 1947 … Continue reading Estella Rudgely – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
John Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
John Willats - 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors, Week 3. It wasn’t my intention to write about my 6th great-grandfather this week, I had already written it on my 2nd great-grandmother Estella Rudgely but I’m waiting on happy mail in forms of a few birth certificates, which unfortunately haven’t arrived in time so I’m now going … Continue reading John Willats – 52 Weeks, 52 Ancestors.
Intwined 