This story exists in the space between what is known and what is remembered.It is informed by history, by inquiry transcripts and passenger records, by the careful work of those who preserved facts when grief might have erased them. It also acknowledges what history cannot hold, the private moments, the fleeting thoughts, the ordinary humanity … Continue reading Three Names Pressed Into Ink – A Third-Class Family on the Titanic.
Research
Beyond the Classroom Map: How the Second World War Touched the Entire World
The Second World War was never confined to a neat map pinned to a classroom wall. It did not belong solely to Germany, France and England, with America stepping in later like a final chapter. It was a living, breathing global upheaval that reached into almost every corner of the world, shaping lives in ways … Continue reading Beyond the Classroom Map: How the Second World War Touched the Entire World
The Price of Memory: Navigating Paid Genealogy Subscriptions.
There comes a moment in almost every family history journey when the free paths begin to narrow. The easy discoveries have been gathered. The familiar names have been traced through census pages and parish registers. And then, suddenly, the past seems to hover just beyond reach, close enough to feel but resting behind subscription screens … Continue reading The Price of Memory: Navigating Paid Genealogy Subscriptions.
“Love, Arrival, and Goodbye: Certificates That Shape Family History.
There is a particular weight to a certificate that no index or transcript can ever quite carry. It is not heavy in the hand, yet it holds the gravity of a moment when a life was formally acknowledged by the world. A birth declared. A marriage promised. A death quietly recorded. These documents are not … Continue reading “Love, Arrival, and Goodbye: Certificates That Shape Family History.
Where Lives First Touch the Page.
There is a moment, early in every family history journey, when the past feels impossibly far away. Names hover without weight or warmth. Dates slip through the fingers like mist. Stories feel more like echoes than truths, softened by time and repetition. It is often here, in that quiet uncertainty, that records begin to speak. … Continue reading Where Lives First Touch the Page.
When History Leaves the Gate Open: Free Paths into Family History.
There is a particular kind of magic in free genealogy websites. They feel like old iron gates left thoughtfully unlatched, doors standing open not by accident but by invitation. For anyone drawn to family history, especially within the United Kingdom, these digital spaces hum softly with memory. They echo with footsteps once taken along cobbled … Continue reading When History Leaves the Gate Open: Free Paths into Family History.
The Life Of Joseph Newell 1783-1860 Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation.
As we turn the page to the next chapter in Joseph Newell's life, we step into a new season, one marked by both the quiet passage of time and the weight of unspoken promises. The years that follow his early life will reveal the man he becomes, the husband, the father, the individual whose choices … Continue reading The Life Of Joseph Newell 1783-1860 Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation.
“The life of William Lye 1809–1890 Through Documentation.”
In the quiet village of East Tytherley, Hampshire, beneath the rolling fields where the trees sway gently in the breeze, a boy was born in 1809, William Lye, the man whose life would weave itself into the fabric of my own family’s story. Though the world he knew was vast and tumultuous, shaped by war, … Continue reading “The life of William Lye 1809–1890 Through Documentation.”
“The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965: Until Death Do Us Part Through Documentation.”
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.”
“The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
Welcome to “The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.” His story is a journey through the fragments of history that have been pieced together through old records, documents, and archives, a journey to better understand the life of my paternal great-grandfather, Frederick Ernest Carr. Like so many of us, I … Continue reading “The Life of Frederick Ernest Carr 1891–1965 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
“Part 2 of The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 Until Death Do Us Part.”
As I embark on the second chapter of Stephen Withers' life story, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought us to this point, a journey marked by love, labor, and an unwavering commitment to family. In the first part of his tale, we traced the early years of this man born into … Continue reading “Part 2 of The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 Until Death Do Us Part.”
The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 The Early Years.
In the quiet corners of history, amidst the yellowed pages of parish records and the labyrinthine trails of ancestral research, lies the remarkable tale of my paternal 3rd Great Grandfather, Stephen Withers. Born in 1831 and departing this world in 1916, his life spans an era of profound change and endurance.Navigating through the annals of … Continue reading The Life of Stephen Withers 1831–1916 The Early Years.
The Life of Frank Whitlock/Whitelock 1846–1922 Until Death Do Us Part.
With the turning of a page, we step into the second chapter of Frank Whitlock’s story, a story no longer just of boyhood and the steady beat of rural life, but of love, commitment, and the quiet, sacred promise of “until death do us part.” As Part One traced the tender, often painful path of … Continue reading The Life of Frank Whitlock/Whitelock 1846–1922 Until Death Do Us Part.
Part Two: The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 Until Death Do Us Part.
The year was 1822, and Romsey remained the backdrop to John Withers’ unfolding life. Now a married man, bound to Mary Cole by the vows they had exchanged beneath the worn stone arches of their parish church, John stood on the threshold of a new chapter, one shaped not by the freedom of youth, but … Continue reading Part Two: The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
In the quiet corners of history, where ink fades and parchment crumbles, lies the tale of John Withers, a man whose life unfolds amidst the shadows of uncertain dates and scant documentation. Born in the year 1797, before the days of standardized birth records, John's early years are a mosaic of parish whispers and faded … Continue reading The Life of John Withers 1797–1865 The Early Years Through Documentation.”
The Life Of Emily Kate Southwell 1892–1947 Through Documentation.
In the quiet corners of family attics and the faded pages of dusty albums, lies the essence of a life once lived. The Life of Emily Kate Southwell, 1892–1947, is not just a chronicle of dates and events, but a testament to the enduring power of family history. It is in these fragments of the … Continue reading The Life Of Emily Kate Southwell 1892–1947 Through Documentation.
The Life Of Elizabeth Wren 1831–1900 Until Death Do Us Part.
When Elizabeth Wren stepped into the church on that cool, spring morning in 1850, the air was thick with the quiet promise of forever. Her heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty as she stood before her groom, the man who would become her world. His eyes, warm and full of quiet devotion, … Continue reading The Life Of Elizabeth Wren 1831–1900 Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 The Early Years Through Documentation.
In the quiet corners of history, nestled within the yellowed pages of documents and faded photographs, lies the essence of William Harry Freak, a name that resonates through time and bloodlines, echoing with stories of courage, love, and the quiet strength of everyday life. Born in 1846, he embarked on a journey through an era … Continue reading The Life Of William Harry Freak 1846–1891 The Early Years Through Documentation.
The Life Of Robert McIntyre Wallace 1898–1925 Through Documentation.
Family history is more than a collection of names and dates, it is the foundation of who we are, the story of those who came before us, and the legacy we pass on to future generations. To understand our own identities, we must look to the lives of our ancestors, for their struggles, triumphs, and … Continue reading The Life Of Robert McIntyre Wallace 1898–1925 Through Documentation.
The Life Of Daniel Ernest Green 1877-1955
Uncovering the life story of my husband’s great-grandfather, Daniel Ernest Green (1877–1955), has been a journey that brought history to life in the most personal and profound way. It is more than just tracing names and dates on a family tree, it’s about piecing together the fragments of a life once lived, breathing life into … Continue reading The Life Of Daniel Ernest Green 1877-1955
The Stevedore’s Song
In the dawn’s early light, where the shadows still fade, Along the bustling docks, where the ships are arrayed, With the salt in the air and the tide’s steady roll, The stevedores gather, their spirits and souls. With calloused hands ready, they greet the new day, As the cranes loom above, lifting cargo to sway. … Continue reading The Stevedore’s Song
The Life Of Samuel Green, 1842-1911, Through Documention.
Welcome to The Life of Samuel Green, 1842-1911, a celebration of the life of my husband’s 2nd great-grandfather. Samuel Green’s story is not just a window into the past, it’s a connection to our shared human experience, an opportunity to honor his legacy, and a reminder of the enduring value of exploring our family roots. … Continue reading The Life Of Samuel Green, 1842-1911, Through Documention.
The Life of Francis Herbert Butt 1883–1948 Through Documentation – Part 2
As we step into the next chapter of Francis Herbert Butt’s life, we find him not as a young boy growing up above his father’s butcher shop in Romsey, nor as the grieving son mourning the loss of his mother, but as a man beginning a new life of his own. With Henrietta Annie Richardson, … Continue reading The Life of Francis Herbert Butt 1883–1948 Through Documentation – Part 2
The Life of Francis Herbert Butt 1883–1948 Through Documentation Part 1.
In the quiet corners of history, amidst the echoes of bygone days, there exists a tapestry woven with the threads of ordinary yet remarkable lives. Among them stands Francis Herbert Butt, a man whose life, though lived decades ago, resonates with timeless lessons and profound moments that shape our understanding of resilience, creativity, and the … Continue reading The Life of Francis Herbert Butt 1883–1948 Through Documentation Part 1.
The Life Of Arthur Henry Butt 1856–1937 Through Documentation – Part 2
As we continue the story of Arthur Henry Butt, we pick up in the year 1890, a time of both loss and new beginnings. The passing of his father, William Butt, marked the end of an era, yet life pressed forward. Arthur, now the head of his own growing family, carried the weight of his … Continue reading The Life Of Arthur Henry Butt 1856–1937 Through Documentation – Part 2
“The Life Of Samuel Solomon Williams 1884–1912 Through Documentation.”
On the 113th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, we remember not just a ship lost to the depths of the North Atlantic, but the thousands of lives taken with her, each one carrying hopes, struggles, and stories that still echo through time. Among those lost was a young fireman from Southampton named Samuel … Continue reading “The Life Of Samuel Solomon Williams 1884–1912 Through Documentation.”
The Life of James William Willats – Embracing Life as a Married Man.
Welcome back to the captivating journey of James William Willats, an enigmatic figure whose life's tale continues to unfold with both intrigue and inspiration. In our first installment, we embarked on a thrilling expedition through his early years. Now, we delve into the next chapter of his extraordinary life, the story of James William Willats … Continue reading The Life of James William Willats – Embracing Life as a Married Man.
The Victorian Publican.
The polished brass, the gleaming glass, The hearth that warms as nights will pass. The publican stands firm and tall, The master of his tavern’s hall. In cobbled streets of London’s sprawl, Or village inns where ivy crawls, The weary folk and workers meet, To rest their bones and find retreat. With barrels stacked and … Continue reading The Victorian Publican.
In the Shadow of the Workhouse.
Beneath the iron gates of fate, Where hope unravels, thin and frayed, We gather meek, our shoulders bent, To pay the price our lives have lent. The air is thick with whispered cries, Of children lost, of mothers' sighs, Grey walls rise tall, like silent graves, Where dreams are buried, none are saved. We wake … Continue reading In the Shadow of the Workhouse.
The Hands That Built the World
With calloused hands and weary bone,The labourer toiled, unseen, unknown.Beneath the sun, through rain and sleet,Each day began on aching feet.The pick, the shovel, forge, and spade,Were tools by which their lives were made.Brick by brick, or fields they’d reap,For pennies earned, their dreams ran deep.The mines, dark mouths, where shadows stayed,Drew men below, where … Continue reading The Hands That Built the World
The Life of Frederick Howard Willats, 1877-1947, Part 2, Until Death Do Us Part.
In the bustling streets of London, amidst the whispers of history and the vibrant pulse of city life, there lived a man whose story danced through the epochs like a melody in the wind. His name was Frederick Howard Willats, a name woven into the fabric of London's narrative, yet often overlooked in the grand … Continue reading The Life of Frederick Howard Willats, 1877-1947, Part 2, Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of, Percy Sidney Willats, 1875-1945, Through Documentation, Part 2.
Welcome back to our exploration of Percy Sidney Willats' extraordinary life, as pieced together through the documents, and records. In Part 1, we delved into the early years of Percy’s life, uncovering the foundational experiences and relationships that shaped his character and ambitions. Now, in Part 2, we move deeper into the narrative, focusing on … Continue reading The Life Of, Percy Sidney Willats, 1875-1945, Through Documentation, Part 2.
The Life Of, Percy Sidney Willats, 1875-1945, Through Documentation, Part 1.
Welcome back to the year 1875, Islington, England. The air there is thick with the soot of coal fires, hanging like a fog over the narrow cobbled streets. Horse-drawn carriages clatter past, their wooden wheels rattling over uneven roads as the wealthy ride in comfort, while the poor shuffle by on foot, faces weathered from … Continue reading The Life Of, Percy Sidney Willats, 1875-1945, Through Documentation, Part 1.
Green
The surname Green, a name resonant with natural imagery and historical depth, holds a prominent place in the annals of Anglo-Saxon heritage. Emerging from the Old English word "grene," meaning green, the surname often described someone who lived near a village green or an open grassy area. This connection to the verdant landscape of England … Continue reading Green
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.
The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, Part 3, Until Death Do Us Part.
In the heart of Buffalo, New York, amidst the echoes of a bustling cityscape, unfolds the captivating saga of Arthur Charles Willats, a tale not only of resilience but of a soul reborn amidst the ebb and flow of life's complexities. Part three of Arthur's life story invites us into the transformative phase that followed … Continue reading The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, Part 3, Until Death Do Us Part.
Part 2, The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats, 1863-1933, Embracing The Promised Lands.
"Stepping onto foreign shores, leaving behind familiar landscapes, and embracing the promise of a new horizon, this was the journey that defined Arthur Charles Willats, my 3rd Great Grandfather Uncle. His arrival in America wasn't just a geographical transition; it marked the inception of a legacy woven with resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams.From … Continue reading Part 2, The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats, 1863-1933, Embracing The Promised Lands.
The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
In the quiet hum of 19th-century London, amidst the cobblestone streets and gaslit alleys, a story quietly unfolded, one that echoed through generations, whispered in the annals of our family's history. At the heart of this tale stood a man whose life, though a distant echo now, bore witness to an era of change, resilience, … Continue reading The Life Of Arthur Charles Willats 1863-1933, The Early Years, Through Documentation.
“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.”
The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Crosbie Nee Willats 1859-1924, Part 2, Embracing Forever
In the gentle embrace of love, our dear Charlotte Ellen Crosbie stepped into the enchanting second act of her life. A bride with stars in her eyes and dreams woven into her heart, she embarked on a new chapter hand in hand with destiny. The promises exchanged, the vows spoken, marked not only the union … Continue reading The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Crosbie Nee Willats 1859-1924, Part 2, Embracing Forever
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 Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.
In the hallowed pages of history, there are chapters that demand to be revisited, stories that beckon us back for another glimpse into a life lived with purpose and heart. As we turn the page to Part 2 of "The Life of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 - Until Death Do Us Part," we step … Continue reading The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.
The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920.
In the quiet corners of our family's history, there lies a figure whose life's story has remained shrouded in the mists of time. As the years roll on, the tales of our ancestors tend to fade, becoming mere whispers carried by the winds of generations. But today, we embark on a journey to reclaim the … Continue reading The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920.
The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.
Welcome back to the enthralling chronicles of the life story of my third great-grandfather. In Part 1, we delved into the early years of his existence, tracing his humble beginnings and the undoubtable challenges he must have encountered along the way. From those formative experiences, I am sure he developed a resilient spirit and an … Continue reading The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.
The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.
Every life story weaves together a unique blend of joy, sorrow, triumphs, and challenges. It is within these intricate threads that we discover the resilience and indomitable spirit of individuals who have faced life's trials head-on, leaving an indelible mark on their family's history. Life's unexpected twists can alter the course we had once envisioned, … Continue reading The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.
The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.
We live a world where change is constant, the unexpected lurks around every corner, and life never fails to surprise us. Throughout our lives, we often find ourselves entangled in the ebb and flow of circumstances beyond our control. As human beings, we strive for stability, seeking solace in the familiar and predictable. But deep … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.
The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.
Welcome back, to the captivating journey through time and heritage as we continue to unravel the intricate puzzle of my ancestral legacy. In this second instalment, we delve deeper into the remarkable life of my third great-grandmother Susan Mary Kirby nee Lagden, and explore the documents and challenges she faced as a married women. As … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.
The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Discovering the Missing Piece Of The Puzzle, The Early Years.
Have you ever found yourself captivated by the allure of solving a mystery? The irresistible sensation that accompanies the search for truth, like assembling the scattered fragments of a puzzle until the bigger picture emerges? We as humans are natural seekers, forever yearning to understand and make sense of the world around us. In this … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Discovering the Missing Piece Of The Puzzle, The Early Years.
Exploring the Famous Legends of Irish History
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
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
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 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
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, 1861-1915, 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
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.
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
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
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, 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, 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
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
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
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
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
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.
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 – 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
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 – 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
Round Up, Round Up – June 2018
It’s been a bittersweet month. The holiday blues took hold, the stresses of life came crashing back after a week of feeling free, freedom of the mind and freedom of the body. I was totally and utterly shocked at how well I felt on our little holiday in Spain, while the sun warmed my blood … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – June 2018
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
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
Round Up, Round Up – May 2018
May, I blinked and it was gone. It really has flown by and I achieved absolutely nothing, in both the land of crochet and family research but in truth the break has been really nice especially as I have lost my crojo. Research wise, I guess all I’ve done is fill in some blanks while … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – May 2018
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
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 – 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
There is always hope.
The joy of researching family history can definitely be a bitter-sweet journey. You build up a picture in you mind of what you believe your Ancestors were like, especially their characters, and sometimes even what they look liked. They warm your heart, you begin to love them and hold a special bond, a one-sided bond … Continue reading There is always hope.
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
We all carry inside us, the people who came before us.
I woke this morning to my DNA results from Ancestry. I am more than a little shocked at my results. After having my mums and my sons DNA taken I was kind of expecting to be mainly Great British, with maybe a little Irish thrown into the mix. My results reveiled a totally different, kettle … Continue reading We all carry inside us, the people who came before us.
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.
Round Up, Round Up – February 2018
Where did February go? Is it really over? Once again the month has been stressful and emotional but I did manage to get a few things made, a few wips (works in progress) finished and a little research carried out. I promised myself at the begin of the month that I wouldn’t start any new crochet … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – February 2018
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.
Lost Treasure – Robert McIntyre Wallace.
A photograph captures a moment in time, never to be forgotten, to be treasured, to shed a tear or a secret smile, only you know the meaning to. Photographs are most probably the most important part of our history. They help us remember those moments that get a little muddled in our constant busy minds. … Continue reading Lost Treasure – Robert McIntyre Wallace.
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.
Round up, round up – January
So what can I possibly say about January 2018. It has been the worst month of our entire life’s. I pray that it can only get better from here on out. January has seen the passing of two family members, my beloved Uncle Ray. He was an absolute legend, an amazing man who had the … Continue reading Round up, round up – January
Intwined 