Welcome to the Family History Social

Bigamists, Bastards and Baffling Brick Walls: A Beginner’s Guide to Discovering Your English Family History by  Nick Thorne

Genealogy enthusiasts beginning their English or Welsh family history quest have a new must-read resource with the release of Bigamists, Bastards and Baffling Brick Walls: A Beginner’s Guide to Discovering Your English Family History. Written by family historian Nick Thorne, this captivating guide offers a deep dive into the world of English and Welsh ancestry, blending expert advice with real-life tales of intrigue and scandal.

The book takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the complexities of genealogical research. From the emotional revelations of bigamous marriages and illegitimate ancestors to practical techniques for navigating elusive parish records, Nick Thorne shares tried-and-tested strategies in a readable style that make this guide indispensable.

“Family history isn’t just about dates and documents; it’s about understanding who you are and where you come from,” says Nick Thorne. “Discovering the secrets hidden in your family tree can be empowering, emotional and immensely rewarding. I wrote this book to help others embrace the journey, no matter how challenging or surprising their discoveries may be.”

Highlights of Bigamists, Bastards and Baffling Brick Walls include:

• Practical step-by-step advice for newbies tracing their ancestors through English and Welsh birth, marriage, and death records.

• Insight into the value of parish registers and other records for pre-1837 ancestry.

• Stories of real-life genealogical discoveries, from forgotten half-relatives to noble scandals.

• Tips for overcoming research roadblocks, including strategies for finding missing records.

Written in an engaging and accessible style, the book will appeal to beginners and those who are tracing their family back to England and Wales from elsewhere. By focusing on the unique records and histories of these parts of the British Isles, Nick Thorne provides a specialised resource for readers with ties to this part of the world.

Whether you’re uncovering long-lost relatives or solving centuries-old mysteries, Bigamists, Bastards and Baffling Brick Walls is a unique blend of practical advice and storytelling that makes his work both informative and compelling for a wide audience

Bigamists, Bastards and Baffling Brick Walls: A Beginner’s Guide to Discovering Your English Family History is available now on Amazon as a paperback and a Kindle e-book.

Amazon.co.uk: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DQKMB47Y

Or from Amazon.com in the USA - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQKMB47Y

Amazon.com.au in Australia - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DQKMB47Y

and Amazon.ca in Canada - https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DQKMB47Y

Today TheGenealogist, a leading online family history and genealogy resource, announced the release of the complete 1910 Lloyd George Domesday survey records for Kent, a groundbreaking digital collection that offers unprecedented insights into early 20th-century British land ownership, properties and occupancy.

Smallhythe Place, Home of Actress Ellen Terry (Mrs Carew) in these new records 

This extensive record set covers over 1,400 square miles of Kent and documents nearly half a million individuals and organisations, providing genealogists, historians, and researchers with a detailed snapshot of the county's social and economic landscape at the turn of the 20th century.

The Lloyd George Domesday survey, officially known as the Finance Act 1910 valuation, was a comprehensive land and property assessment conducted to implement a new land taxation policy. The records represent a unique historical resource that captures intricate details about land ownership, property values, and local demographics during a pivotal period in British history.

Key Features of the Release:

- Comprehensive coverage of Kent's 1,400 square miles

- Detailed records of nearly 500,000 individuals and organisations

- Geolocated maps providing precise geographical context

- High-resolution digital images of original survey documents

"These records offer an extraordinary window into the social fabric of Kent in 1910," said Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist. "Researchers can explore detailed property information, trace land ownership, and uncover fascinating historical insights about communities across the county."

These records are now available to TheGenealogist subscribers, offering researchers an invaluable tool for understanding the historical landscape of Kent during the early 20th century.

This release brings the total coverage of the Lloyd Geoge Domesday to 8,600 Square miles and over 3.7 Million individuals and organisations covering London, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Oxfordshire, Middlesex, Northamptonshire, Surrey, and Wiltshire.

In these records is Robert Dyas, founder of the famous Ironmongers - read his story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/the-untold-story-of-robert-dyas-a-century-of-customer-service-and-innovation-7910/ 

Special Offer for The National Archives Newsletter Readers

For a limited time, you can get a Lifetime Discount on a Diamond Subscription, making it just £94.95 a year. You’ll also receive a Research Pack worth over £90. 

Explore these new records and start your genealogical journey today with TheGenealogist by claiming this offer here:

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/TNAKLGD1224

Offer expires 31st January 2025.

Search over half a million names

Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, TheGenealogist is proud to announce the release of a collection of military records spanning over half a million names. This collection provides invaluable insights into the service and sacrifices of members of the British Armed Forces and colonial forces throughout history.

Active Service Section 3rd VB The Black Watch 24th Jan 1900 from The Muster-Roll of Angus, South African War, 1899-1902

"This collection offers a glimpse into the service and sacrifices of our military and naval personnel throughout history," said Mark Bayley of TheGenealogist. "As we approach Remembrance Sunday, we are honoured to provide researchers and historians access to these invaluable resources, which contain the names of over half a million individuals who served their countries with courage and distinction."

The newly released records include:

Naval and Military Despatches Vol. IV-VI (1915 - 1916); The British Roll of Honour 1837-1887; Return of The Names of The Officers in The Army 1811-1816; Surrey Musters, Part I-III 1544-1684; The Army List for 1881; The Army List for September 1933; The East-India Register and Directory, 1811; The East-India Register and Army List, 1842; The Last Post, Roll of Officers (Naval, Military or Colonial) who fell in South Africa 1899-1902 (also includes War Correspondents and Nurses who lost their lives); The Muster-Roll of Angus, South African War, 1899-1902 (with 700 portraits); A List of the Flag Officers and Other Commissioned Officers of His Majesty's Fleet, 1826; List of Officers of the Navy of the United States and of the Marine Corps, 1775-1900; Naval Worthies of Queen Elizabeth's Reign 1562-1643; Navy - Pensions, Compensations, and Allowances; The Royal Navy List for 1901; The Navy List for 1902; The Navy List for April 1915; The Navy List for April 1932; The Navy List for July 1915; The Navy List for January 1929; Arbroath & District Roll of Honour 1939-1945

The release of these records coincides with Remembrance Sunday, a solemn occasion when we pay tribute to members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty. TheGenealogist's comprehensive military records collection allows individuals to delve into their family histories and honour the legacy of their ancestors who served.

One of the many interesting characters in these new records is Norman Douglas Holbrook, a remarkable submariner with extraordinary courage, skill, and determination - read his story here: https://thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/how-a-wwi-submarine-raid-birthed-a-hero-and-a-town-half-a-world-away-7864/

Start your genealogical journey today with TheGenealogist. To celebrate this release, for a limited time you can claim a Diamond Subscription for the price of a Gold subscription at just £98.95 along with a FREE online magazine - a saving of over £64. You can claim this offer here: https://thegenealogist.co.uk/MGBMIL1124

This offer expires 14th February 2025.

Discover over 2.5 million individuals in this new release

Leading UK genealogy research website TheGenealogist has just launched a new, comprehensive collection of parish records for North West Kent. This monumental release includes over 2.5 million individuals, encompassing:

Baptisms: 1538-1916

Marriages: 1538-1939

Burials: 1538-2000

The detailed transcripts include direct links to original images of the parish records, providing an invaluable resource for those looking to trace their ancestry or delve deeper into their family's history in Kent.

“We are pleased to announce this large release of new parish records broadening our coverage for Kent,” said Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist. “This release represents a significant addition to our growing Parish Record collection. Keep on eye on our news page as we’ll be adding further areas in the coming weeks!”

Parish records are an essential resource for anyone investigating their family history, offering insights into personal connections and local community histories. TheGenealogist is dedicated to providing high-quality resources and easy-to-use search tools that allow users to navigate their family’s past with ease.

Found in these records is Henry Tracey Coxwell a Victorian Aeronaut Extraordinaire, read his story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/the-victorian-balloonist-who-defied-death-at-29000-feet-7850/

Explore the parish records and start your genealogical journey today with TheGenealogist. To celebrate this release, for a limited time you can claim a Diamond Subscription for just £99.45, a saving of £40. You can claim this offer here: 

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/MGBKPR1024

The offer expires 31st January 2025.

Parishes covered in this release are: 

Ash, SS Peter & Paul

Ash next Ridley, SS Peter & Paul

Borstal, St Matthew

Bredhurst, St Peter

Burham, St Mary the Virgin

Chalk, St Mary the Virgin

Chatham, St Mary

Cliffe at Hoo, St Helen

Cobham, St Mary Magdalene

Cooling, St James

Crockenhill, All Souls

Cuxton, St Michael & All Angels

Darenth, St Margaret of Antioch

Dartford, Holy Trinity

Fawkham, St Mary the Virgin

Frindsbury, All Saints

Galley Hill, All Saints

Gillingham, St Barnabas

Gillingham, St Mary Magdalene

Gravesend, St George

Greenhithe, St Mary the Virgin

Halling, St John the Baptist

Hartley, All Saints

High Halstow, St Margaret

Higham with Merston, St Mary

Hoo All Hallows, All Saints

Hoo, St Mary

Hoo, St Werburgh

Horton Kirby, St Mary

Ifield, St Margaret

Isle of Grain, St James

Lidsing, St Mary Magdalene

Longfield, St Mary Magdalene

Lower Birling, Christ Church

Luddesdown, SS Peter & Paul

Luton, Christ Church

Meopham, St John the Baptist

Milton, SS Peter & Paul

Milton next Gravesend, SS Peter & Paul

Northfleet, St Botolph

Nurstead, St Mildred

Old Brompton, Holy Trinity

Perry Street, All Saints

Rainham, St Margaret of Antioch

Ridley, SS Peter & Paul

Rochester, St Margaret

Rochester, St Nicholas

Rosherville, St Mark

Shorne, SS Peter & Paul

Snodland, All Saints

Southfleet, St Nicholas of Myra

Stoke, SS Peter & Paul

Stone, St Mary the Virgin

Stone next Dartford, St Mary the Virgin

Strood, St Nicholas

Sutton at Hone, St John the Baptist

Swanley, St Paul

Swanscombe, SS Peter & Paul

Upnor, SS Philip & James

Wilmington, St Michael & All Angels

Wouldham, All Saints

Leading genealogy research website TheGenealogist has announced the integration of the 1841 census into its cutting-edge MapExplorerTM tool. This significant addition allows family historians and researchers to delve deeper into their ancestral past with unprecedented geographical context.

[TheGenealogist’s MapExplorerTM showing households across the streets of London in 1841]

Key Highlights:

• The 1841 census, the first modern census of England, Scotland and Wales, is now on TheGenealogist's MapExplorerTM

• Locate your ancestors to the parish, street or even house they lived in

• Over 18.4 million individuals are recorded in the 1841 census and you can now explore their neighbourhoods

• Users can visualise their ancestors' locations on historical maps, providing a unique perspective on family history

Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist, stated, "We're proud to announce the completion of our project to "map the census". Never before could you pin down your ancestors through each year, from 1841 all the way to the 1939 register. This visual approach to genealogy brings the past to life in ways never before possible."

Found in these records is Surgeon Nurse Eliza Roberts, the forgotten hero of the Crimea, read her story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/eliza-roberts-a-forgotten-pioneer-in-nursing-7666/

To celebrate this release, for a limited time you can claim a Diamond Subscription for just £99.45, a saving of £40. You can claim this offer here: 

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/affiliate/?affid=lzupkh&page=2746 

Offer expires 30th December 2024.

Pinpoint your ancestors' property in 1,346 square miles of the South West of England.

TheGenealogist, a leading UK family history website, has announced a significant addition to its collection of historical records. The website has released the 1910 Lloyd George Domesday records and geolocated maps for the entire county of Wiltshire, covering an impressive 1,346 square miles and containing information on more than 175,000 individuals and organisations.

Bradford on Avon in TheGenealogist’s Lloyd George Domesday Survey

Key Highlights:

• Comprehensive Coverage: The release encompasses the whole of Wiltshire, providing researchers with access to a wealth of genealogical and historical data.

• Geolocated Maps: Advanced mapping technology allows users to pinpoint the exact locations of ancestral properties and landmarks.

• Over 175,000 Names: A treasure trove of information for family historians and researchers interested in early 20th-century Wiltshire.

• Historical Significance: The Lloyd George Domesday records offer unique insights into property ownership and land use in Edwardian England.

Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist, stated, "This release of the 1910 Lloyd George Domesday records for Wiltshire is a game-changer for those researching family, local and social history in the county. The combination of detailed records and geolocated maps provides an unprecedented level of insight into the lives of Wiltshire residents at the turn of the 20th century."

The Lloyd George Domesday records, also known as the 1910 Valuation Office Survey records, were created to assess property values for tax purposes. They offer a snapshot of land ownership and occupation just before the outbreak of World War I, making them an invaluable resource for genealogists and historians alike.

Researchers can now:

• Locate ancestral homes and businesses with precision

• Discover details about the area their ancestors lived in, such as locating their local school, church or pub

• Gain insights into the social and economic conditions of Edwardian Wiltshire

• Cross-reference information with other historical records for a more complete family history

This release is part of TheGenealogist's ongoing commitment to providing the most comprehensive and user-friendly resources for family history research. They plan to continue expanding their collection of Lloyd George Domesday records to cover more counties in the coming months.

For more information about the 1910 Lloyd George Domesday records, visit https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/lloyd-george-domesday/.

Read the feature article ‘The Saga of Stonehenge’ at TheGenealogist here:

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/the-saga-of-stonehenge-7660/ 

To celebrate this release, for a limited time, you can claim a Diamond Subscription for just £94.95, a saving of £45. You can claim this offer here:

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/TNALGD924

TheGenealogist is excited to announce the release of nearly 300,000 historic landowner records. The new additions consist of Feet of Fines, Index of Sasines, and the Scotland Record Office Index to Register of Deeds, offering a wealth of information for those delving into their ancestry.

Feet of Fines: These documents provide insights into land transactions, usually involving the transfer of property rights, and were commonly used in English legal proceedings from the 13th century onwards. The Feet of Fines contains detailed information about the parties involved in the transactions, property descriptions, and the dates of agreements, serving as a vital resource for researchers tracing their family land ownership or exploring the economic history of a region.

Index of Sasines: The release of the Index of Sasines marks a significant addition to TheGenealogist's Scottish records. Sasines are legal documents that confirm the possession of land and property, reflecting the transfer of ownership in Scotland from the 16th century onwards. This index allows users to quickly locate and access critical details surrounding property ownership, making it an essential tool for genealogists looking to understand their ancestral ties to land in Scotland.

Scotland Record Office Index to Register of Deeds: This comprehensive index opens the door to a vast array of legal documents relating to property and inheritance in Scotland. By providing easy access to this substantial resource, TheGenealogist allows users to uncover their family histories and gain a deeper understanding of the social and legal contexts in which their ancestors lived.

These new records are now available on TheGenealogist, providing an unparalleled opportunity for researchers to deepen their exploration of family histories and connect with their pasts.

In this release are: Berwick, Index to Register of Sasines Volume I. A-H 1617-1780; London and Middlesex, A Calendar to the Feet of Fines 1179 - 1485; Yorkshire Feet of Fines 1327-1614; Huntingdon Calendar of the Feet of Fines 1194-1603; Scotland, Index to Particular Register of Sasines for Sheriffdom of Dumfries and Stewaertries of Kirkcudbright and Annandale 1617 - 1732; 

Scotland Record Office, Index to Register of Deeds, 1661 - 1679

Read the feature article ‘The Scottish Rebel Who Defied the Crown: Andrew Fletcher's Fight for Independence’ at TheGenealogist here:

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/the-scottish-rebel-who-defied-the-crown-7584/ 

To celebrate this release you can Save Over £50 on our Diamond Package here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/affiliate/?affid=lzupkh&page=2723

To mark the 110th anniversary of the start of World War I, TheGenealogist is proud to announce the release of an extensive collection of military records featuring the global conflict. This significant release includes service records, rolls of honour, and books of remembrance from schools, places, and institutions, providing invaluable insights into the lives of those who served and sacrificed during the Great War.

The newly released records offer a look at over 25,000 individuals, giving details such as the service histories of soldiers, portraits, details of their schooling, and family connections, including poignant details of those killed or wounded in action. These records not only commemorate the bravery and dedication of those who served but also provide a rich resource for researchers and family historians.

A page from Portsmouth and the Great War

Included in this release are the following notable compilations:

• Birmingham, Service Record of King Edward School 1914-1919

• Whitgift Grammar School, The Book of Remembrance 1914-1919

• Memorials of Rugbeians Who Fell in the Great War, Volumes II, III, V, VI

• A Book of Remembrance of Old Boys and Masters of Watford Grammar School who Served in the Great War, 1914-1918

• Shrewsbury School, Roll of Service, 1914-1918

• Portsmouth and the Great War

• Swindon's War Record 1914-1918

• The Clan MacRae Roll in the Great War - Unveiling of Memorial Supplement

• 7th Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, Officers and Men Who Fell During the Great War

• London County Council Record of Service in the Great War, 1914-1918

• Phoenix Assurance Company, Ltd. - War Service List, 1914-1919

Also included in the release are two publications that give more context to the conflict, with stories and illustrations of the individual battles and notable heroic deeds:

• Children's Story of the War

• Deeds that Thrill the Empire

Mark Bayley, Head of Content at TheGenealogist, commented: “This release not only preserves the memories of the men and women who feature in these records, it also provides a window into the past for future generations. This adds to our extensive WW1 collections, providing a valuable resource for anyone interested in the personal histories and sacrifices of those who experienced the Great War.”

Researchers and family historians can access these records online at TheGenealogist's website, where they can explore detailed entries, including the years individuals attended school, information on family members, and personal stories of bravery and loss.

Read the feature article ‘Harold Ackroyd: MD to VC’ at TheGenealogist here:

https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2024/harold-ackroyd-md-to-vc-7556/  

To celebrate this release you can Save over £50 on our Diamond Package just sign up here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/affiliate/?affid=lzupkh&page=2719

TheGenealogist is delighted to announce the release of a comprehensive collection of 1930-35 directories. This addition features 3.5 million individuals, providing genealogy enthusiasts with an unparalleled opportunity to trace their ancestors and explore family histories during the first half of this transformative decade of the 1930s.

The newly available directories offer information on individuals, businesses, and localities, making it easier than ever to uncover the lives of your ancestors.

Lyndhurst High Street can be found in Kelly's Directory of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, 1931

Key Features and Benefits:

• Rich Detail and Coverage: With over 3.5 million listings, these directories provide details about individuals' professions, addresses, and local businesses, offering a snapshot of life in the first half of the 1930s.

• Geographical Diversity: The collection covers various regions, including Sussex, Warwickshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Dorsetshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Westmorland, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and many more, extending even to the Channel Islands, Malta and New Zealand.

• Enhanced Research Capabilities: Researchers can delve into trade directories and phone books to uncover ancestors' occupations, residences, and social engagements, providing a holistic view of their lives.

Why the 1930s Matter:

The 1930s, also known as the Great Slump, was a period of economic and social upheaval. Understanding how your ancestors navigated these challenging times can provide profound insights into your family's resilience and adaptability. These directories are a treasure trove for anyone looking to connect with their past and understand their heritage in the context of broader historical events.

Supporting Your Journey:

TheGenealogist is committed to making your research journey as smooth and rewarding as possible. Our platform offers a suite of tools and resources, including expert articles, video tutorials, and a dedicated customer support team, ensuring that users can effectively use these newly released directories.

Read TheGenealogist’s article, Shooting for Gold and Glory: The Unstoppable Philip Neame

To celebrate this latest release, TheGenealogist is offering its 12 months Diamond Package for just £99.95 – that’s over £40 off!

To find out more and claim the offer, visit: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/MGBDIR724

Expires on 26th Oct 2024

This offer includes a lifetime discount! Your subscription will renew at with £20 off every year you stay with them.

This includes the following:-
Subscription to Discover Your Ancestors Online Magazine (Worth £24.99)

20 June 2024 - S&N Genealogy Supplies has announced the release of RootsMagic 10 UK Edition, the latest version of the award-winning genealogy software which makes researching, organizing, and sharing your family history easy and enjoyable.

To celebrate this launch, they are offering 20% off RootsMagic 10 UK Upgrade - HURRY, this offer ends 7th July!

https://genealogysupplies.com/rootsmagic/