Traveling through the annals of Irish history is an incredible journey, full of captivating legends, stories, and myths. From the heroic tales of Cú Chulainn and Fionn mac Cumhaill to the devastating potato famine, Ireland has a rich history that is both fascinating and heartbreaking. I’ve been exploring some of the most famous legends of … Continue reading Exploring the Famous Legends of Irish History
Family Research
The Workhouse.
Living in a workhouse, A life of toil and pain, Our days consumed by labor, Our nights in bitter refrain. Our hands are raw and calloused, Our spirits bruised and worn, Our bodies tired and aching, From the labor we perform. Yet even in this hardship, We still hold on to hope, That one day … Continue reading The Workhouse.
Living in Canning Town, in Victorian England.
Living in the Canning Town slums of London during the Victorian era was a harsh and often unbearable experience for many of the impoverished residents. In the late 1800s, Canning Town was one of the poorest areas in the city, with overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions that made it a breeding ground for disease, crime, … Continue reading Living in Canning Town, in Victorian England.
The Life Of Richard Henry Willats 1834 – 1923, Through Documentation.
Old things are more beautifulthan many things brand newBecause they bring fond memoriesof things we used to do.Old photographs in albums,love letters tied with lace,Recapture those old feelingsthat new ones can't replace.Baby shoes, a teddy bear,a ring that grandma wore,Are treasures waiting there behinda door marked "Nevermore".Old things are more beautiful,more precious day by dayBecause … Continue reading The Life Of Richard Henry Willats 1834 – 1923, Through Documentation.
The Life of Mary O’Connor, 1831-1895, Through Documentation.
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.
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
John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Takes An Unexpected Turn, As His Truth Unfolds.
History is a mighty drama, enacted upon the theatre of times, with suns for lamps and eternity for a background. As I delve into the past, revisiting the lives of names written upon dusty documents, those names capture my soul and pull fondly on my heartstrings. They no longer are just random names scribbled on … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Takes An Unexpected Turn, As His Truth Unfolds.
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
Chapter 10 – October 2022
As we close one chapter, the pen is gradually inking up, preparing itself to write the next.” ©️ Mie Hansson. As the vibrant trees of autumn shed their fiery leaves, twisting, turning and dancing on the chilly autumnal breeze 🍂 unburdening the heaviness of their branches, welcoming in new life, new beginnings and a calming wintery light, as … Continue reading Chapter 10 – October 2022
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
Chapter 9 – September 2022 – The Month Everything Changed.
“There is a time in late September when the leaves are still green, and the days are still warm, but somehow you know that it is all about to end as if summer was holding its breath, and when it let it out again, it would be autumn.” ―Sharyn McCrumb Just like the changing seasons, … Continue reading Chapter 9 – September 2022 – The Month Everything Changed.
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.
Chapter Eight – August 2022
Just over a month ago, all of August still stretched before us, long sunny days, filled with bewitching colours and the reassuring feeling of freedom. The sky has been a constant sun filled blue, with the hint of a occasional wispy cloud. The heat and muggyness tethering on uncomfortable. Dahlias flung open huge blossoms, as the … Continue reading Chapter Eight – August 2022
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
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
Chapter Six – June 2022
It is the month of June, The month of leaves and roses, When pleasant sights salute the eyes and pleasant scents the noses. ”Nathaniel Parker Willis Gone are the cold days and chilly nights that bound us to our bed and the comfy blankets that warm our freezing bodies. Daybreak Sunlight steams through the windows waking the summer … Continue reading Chapter Six – June 2022
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.
Chapter Five, May 2022
Every single life is different, not one the same as the other. Every crossroads is not only a decision but also a destination. How simple it is to take the wrong turning, altering your destiny one step at a time. Some may believe that no matter the journey, the destination of your life has been … Continue reading Chapter Five, May 2022
The Life Of David Charles Hillier, 1923-1965
How am I supposed to feel.When the nightmares & pain become to real? What am I supposed to say,When all my hope has gone away? Where do I go when life passes by,And all I want to do is die? When do I get the choice,And quiet the endless voice? Flashbacks, isolation and hypervigilence abound,Peace … Continue reading The Life Of David Charles Hillier, 1923-1965
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
Chapter 4 – April 2022
Spring gives the world a makeover. And it’s the perfect time to do the same for yourself. Refresh your mind with gratitude, kindness, motivation, and love. Fill your heart and home with the love of family. Strive forward and rejoice in the light that surrounds you, open your soul and let that light, fill your entire … Continue reading Chapter 4 – April 2022
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
The Life Of, Edwin Charles Diaper.
I’ve always been fascinated by the Diaper, branch of my Hubbies family tree. I think it’s because of the strong family resemblance, or maybe the amazing story of Marks 2nd great-uncle John Joseph Diaper, who survived the tragic sinking of the Titanic. These are only two reason why the Diaper family are absolutely fascinating. They … Continue reading The Life Of, Edwin Charles Diaper.
Chapter 3 – March 2022
The one thing that you have that nobody else has is you. Your voice, your mind, your story, your vision. So write and draw and build and play and dance and live as only you can. Neil Gaiman I’ve had to remind myself of this, constantly over the last few weeks. It’s been one of … Continue reading Chapter 3 – March 2022
The Life Of Caroline Chown, 1818 -1894
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. -Roy Sesana It’s for our future generations why I strive my hardest to piece together the lives of … Continue reading The Life Of Caroline Chown, 1818 -1894
The Life of, John Williams, 1816-1869.
“We all grow up with the weight of history on us. Our ancestors dwell in the attics of our brains as they do in the spiraling chains of knowledge hidden in every cell of our bodies.” Shirley Abbott. I never knew how a name written upon a family tree, could consume my every waking moment, … Continue reading The Life of, John Williams, 1816-1869.
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 2 – February 2022
In this life we will never truly be apart, for we grew to the same beat of our mother's heart. My twin sister and I grew up speaking our own private language, only we could understand. We fooled teachers into believing we were the other, and rejoiced in the satisfaction. But as we grow we … Continue reading Chapter 2 – February 2022
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
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.
The End of the Chapter – Round Up – December 2021
A New Year. A fresh start. A new chapter in life waiting to be written. New questions to be asked, embraced, and loved. Answers to be discovered and then lived in this transformative year of delight and self-discovery. Today carve out a quiet interlude for yourself in which to dream, pen in hand. Only dreams … Continue reading The End of the Chapter – Round Up – December 2021
Round Up, Round Up – November 2021
Cold and beautiful December, I welcome you. With frosty mornings, bright, crisp days and the promise of powdery snow, it's easy to see how we can get lost in the magic of the season. 🎄From the twinkling lights, the scent of pine trees, the tingles of delight as carols relight the memories of Christmas past, the mouthwatering aroma … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – November 2021
Round Up, Round Up, September 2021
September though incredibly busy was kind, it’s days full of warmth and sunshine. It’s like it somehow knew we all needed an extra ray of sunshine to brighten our spirits as the chaos of the world spins out of control. It’s been an extremely hard few years for so many, full of desperation, fear, depression and … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up, September 2021
Round Up – April 2020
April, the month nothing changed but everything changed. The world is mainly still in lockdown. In truth Lockdown hasn’t really been much different for me, I’m at home 24/7, just venturing out one day a week to see my lovely Mum and Auntie Jan, how I miss them.😭 The only thing I can say I’m … Continue reading Round Up – April 2020
Round Up, Round Up – January 2020
Who else agrees that January was long, really blooming long? I’m pretty glad to see the back of it even though lots of special memories were made, from our eldest Sons 21, where his dream came true, to a special day out with my Mum, Auntie Jan and our youngest Son Calum. I’ll tell you … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – January 2020
Round Up, Round Up – October 2019
I can’t believe we are in November already, that Christmas advertising is everywhere. October has been full on, and pretty exciting. We brought a camper van, whoop, whoop. His name is Phillippe .🚍 He’s a peugeot boxer classique and needs a little tlc. You can read all about him here. Restoration has started, all windows … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – October 2019
Round Up, Round Up – July 2019
This time last month I was sat in the glorious sunshine by the pool in beautiful Cyprus. I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing our week spent there was and how magical it was to spend a week just chilling with my favourite people in the whole world. We ate way to much, … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – July 2019
Round Up, Round Up, June 2019
Good morning from the beautiful country of Cyprus. I’m currently having my morning coffee sat my the pool in the glorious sun, it’s already 28 degrees and it’s only 9am. I can’t tell you how truly wonderful it is to feel warm, to have the sun rays dance across my skin but more importantly to … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up, June 2019
Round Up, Round Up – May 2019
May has been hard, it’s thrown every emotion possible at us. It’s GCSE’s and boy the pressure the children are under is horrendous. They have so many exams, too many, even our family doctor was saying how wrong it is and that the pressure the children are under is ridiculous, that there are too many … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – May 2019
Your feet will bring you where your heart is.
My life time dream, has always been to visit Ireland, if possible to move there. I’m extremely proud of my Irish roots, even though so little is known about them. Each year that passes the ache to connect with my irish ancestry grows, unfortunately life always seems to take me down different roads and I … Continue reading Your feet will bring you where your heart is.
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
Doreen June Willats – Part 2 – Growing
Welcome back to the life of my maternal Grandmother, Doreen June Willats. Today we visit the second part of the series, the school years but if you missed the first part, you can find it here. Let’s get straight to it, shall we. Do you remember any holidays or special outings from your younger years? … Continue reading Doreen June Willats – Part 2 – Growing
Doreen June Willats – The Beginning.
Family history research seems to only concentrate on the souls who have passed over, to where ever it may be. But what about your ancestors whom are still alive and kicking, the ones who remember the souls you are desperate to discover. Isn’t it our jobs as budding historians to document not only the deceased … Continue reading Doreen June Willats – The Beginning.
Round Up, Round Up – April 2019
Bittersweet April always brings the horrific memories of my Dad’s death to the forefront of our minds, we relive the horror and the heartbreak over and over again. Tears are shed and the what ifs only grow as the years without him spiral out of control. It seems only yesterday we were sat day in, … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – April 2019
Round Up, Round Up – March 2019
With warmer days ahead of us, garden showing signs of spring, winter blues are slowly fading, as our souls enlighten with the early morning rays. I for one am glad to feel the sun warming my icy bones, even though I’ll miss the beauty of crisp frost-bitten mornings. Spring somehow always manages to put a … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – March 2019
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 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
Round Up, Round Up – February 2019
February has been very much like the weather, it’s teased with signs of spring, the blossoming of snowdrops and the smile of daffodil, while the reality of winter festers deep within our bones, it’s cruel, ice-cold winds continue to blow up around us. It’s been pure delight to feel the sun upon our faces as … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – February 2019
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
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
Round Up, Round Up – December 2018
Christmas is forever, not for just one day, for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf. The good you do for others is good you do yourself. (Norman W Brooks) Christmas is more than presents, good food and too much alcohol, it’s … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – December 2018
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
Round Up, Round Up – November 2018
November has been a month of change. Unfortunately I was diagnosed with, type two diabetes and after a long wait I managed to see my diabetic nurse. She basically told I need to change my lifestyle. Diabetes is one scary mofo, I knew it was dangerous through my beauty therapy training, but never really understood … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – November 2018
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
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
Lest We Forget
🎖Frank Milward Newell 1899-1918 Pas-de-Calais 🎖Harry Pearce 1874-1916 Beaumont Hamel, France 🎖Walter Pearce 1883-1916 France and Flanders 🎖Horace Lennan Willats 1894-1916 Rugeley, Staffordshire. 🎖Alton Henry Willats 1889-1917 Pas-de-Calais, France. 🎖Harry Ashley Willats 1889-1917 Battle, Sussex. 🎖David James E Willats 1898-1917 France and Flanders. 🎖James O’Connor 25 Oct 1915 The Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley Marsh, Hampshire, … Continue reading Lest We Forget
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.
Round Up, Round Up – October 2018
The single most important thing in life is what it all means to you. Life doesn’t come prepackaged with this meaning either.. you create it. Doing so is rarely easy, but it’s always within your power and well worth the effort. Ultimately, the secret is to LOVE, love the people who love you, share advantages … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – October 2018
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
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
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 / 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
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
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
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
Love Entwined
The road leading to a goal, does not separate you, from the destination, it is essentially a part of it. I’m starting out upon a new venture, a road of the unknown, a road of possibilities, a road which with time, love and determination will hopefully allow us to carry out our dream, our goal. … Continue reading Love Entwined
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
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
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 – 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
Intwined 