The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965: Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation, begins a new chapter, a journey of discovery and heartache, as I attempt to piece together the life of my great-grandfather through the faded remnants of history. Growing up, I knew very little about Frederick, only that he was a man … Continue reading “The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965: Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation.”
My Family
“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.
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 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 Arthur Charles Willats, 1863-1933, Part 4, The Final Curtain.
As I pen the opening lines of Part Four in the chronicles of my English 3rd great granduncle, Arthur Charles Willats, I am humbled by the intricacies of his journey through life. Arthur's path, etched with the bittersweet symphony of loss and resilience, unfolds against the backdrop of Buffalo, Erie, New York, a city pulsating … Continue reading The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats, 1863-1933, Part 4, The Final Curtain.
“Echoes Of Elegance In Victorian Marylebone – The Life Of Edith Cameron Willats 1861-1938, The Early Years.”
In the heart of Victorian Marylebone, amidst the grandeur of cobblestone streets and the rustle of silk skirts, a luminous soul graced the world with her presence. Born into a tapestry of opulence and boundless love, Edith Cameron Willats emerged as a jewel in the crown of a family both large in number and steeped … Continue reading “Echoes Of Elegance In Victorian Marylebone – The Life Of Edith Cameron Willats 1861-1938, The Early Years.”
Athena’s her name, mischief her game.
In a world of dirt and garden glee,There's a husky pup, wild and free.Athena's her name, mischief her game,With a penchant for digging, she's earned her fame.With a nose for adventure, she'll start to roam,In the garden's earth, she makes her home.Digging deep holes, her paws in a flurry,Turning the yard into a canine quarry.With … Continue reading Athena’s her name, mischief her game.
Our dear puppsie, forever home.
In a solemn journey, we bring you home,Your ashes, once vibrant, now still as stone.A vessel of memories, a symbol of love,A reminder of the bond we'll forever hold above.With tender hands, we cradle your remains,Feeling the weight of loss, the ache of pains.But in this act of bringing you near,We find solace in knowing … Continue reading Our dear puppsie, forever home.
Their Footsteps Echo.
In the attic's quiet, dusty air,Lies a chest of tales, a lineage fair.Bound in yellowed parchment, memories entwined,A chronicle of kin, an ancestry defined. Each heirloom holds a whispered trace,Of ancestors' valor, their enduring grace.In fading photographs, faces stare,A legacy preserved, beyond compare. From humble beginnings to triumph's cheer,Their footsteps echo, crystal clear.Through epochs danced, … Continue reading Their Footsteps Echo.
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.
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 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
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
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 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
Dreams really do come true.
Our Son Connor, turned 21 the weekend before last. We as a family wanted to give him something a little extra special, some thing that he could treasure for the rest of his life. But what could we get him, that wouldn't get lost over time? Connor has always shown great passion for animals, especially, … Continue reading Dreams really do come true.
This Day, The 21st October
The 21st of October is a date that sticks in my mind more than most, it’s a day that always fills my heart with sadness, fills my eyes with tears but also brings happiness, gratitude and joy to my heart. Today’s date holds some of the most beautiful memories but also some of the saddest. … Continue reading This Day, The 21st October
Round Up, Round Up – September 2019
Rain hangs about the place, like a friendly ghost. If it's not coming down in delicate droplets, then it's in buckets and if neither, it tends to lurk suspiciously in the atmosphere. It seems like it has rained forever, leaving no evidence of summer just wet soggy leaves and dog paw prints on every floor.🍁 … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – September 2019
Changes
As my baby boy Calum, headed out the door for his first day at college studying all the ologys, my heart couldn’t be more proud. While he takes the next stage of his life with passion and determination, it’s made me look at my life and focus and made me realise I’m failing badly. So … Continue reading Changes
Round Up, Round Up – August 2019
August, the summer of Sundays. Sunbeams dancing over our sun kissed skin, the glorious smell of bbq’s, care free days, lovely warm evenings. And with one turn of a page on our calendars, it’s over. As we all desperately try to hold onto summer, the evenings drunken, the morning dew twinkles as the late morning … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – August 2019
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
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
Passion
Most of us dream that our passion will one day become our jobs, that we can spend our days doing what we love, be it carpentry, quilting, crochet, knitting, photography, fishing, gaming, racing, running, etc, etc. How wonderful that would be. I once had this overwhelming passion for photography, I saw photos everywhere and in … Continue reading Passion
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 – 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
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
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.
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
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
Intwined 