Welcome to the Family History Social

Aintree Racecourse to host a new event on 3rd May 2025

TheFamilyHistoryShow.com is thrilled to announce the expansion of its popular genealogy event series to Liverpool. The new show will take place at the iconic Aintree Racecourse on 3rd May 2025, providing family history enthusiasts in the North West with a unique opportunity to explore their roots.

This addition to the show calendar complements the well-established events in London and the Midlands, further cementing The Family History Show's position as the UK's leading genealogy event organiser.

Key highlights of the Liverpool show will include:

• Expert speakers covering a wide range of genealogy topics

• Exhibitors showcasing the latest in family history research tools and services

• One-on-one consultations with experienced genealogists

• Networking opportunities for both novice and experienced researchers

"We're excited to bring The Family History Show to Liverpool," said Paul Bayley of TheFamilyHistoryShow.com. "The North West has a rich history and a passionate community of family researchers. This new event will provide them with fantastic access to talks, experts, and networking opportunities."

The Liverpool show joins The Family History Shows 2025 lineup of events:

• Online - 8th February 2025

• Midlands - 15th March 2025

• Liverpool - 3rd May 2025

• London - 4th October 2025

Early bird tickets for the Liverpool show are available now from TheFamilyHistoryShow.com/Liverpool. 

Exhibitor spaces are limited and expected to sell quickly, so make sure you take advantage of the early bird prices for exhibitors and book your space here: TheFamilyHistoryShow.com.

TheGenealogist has announced a significant expansion of its historical records collection with the release of over 5 million directory records, primarily focusing on the post World War II era. This extensive collection provides researchers with invaluable insights into the lives of residents and businesses of individuals across the United Kingdom during a transformative period in British history.

The new release includes comprehensive directories from major cities and regions throughout the UK from the mid-19th century to the 1950s. These directories serve as crucial resources for genealogists, historians and researchers interested in tracing family histories, understanding local businesses and exploring social history.

Winston Churchill in the London Post Office Directory, Vol. 1, 1922

The collection is particularly notable for its inclusion of:

- Residential names and addresses

- Professional listings

- Street directories

- Commercial and trade directories

- Business advertisements

- Municipal information

Mark Bayley, Head of Content at TheGenealogist, states: “With the 1931 Census lost to fire, no 1941 Census taken due to the war and the 1951 census under wraps for another 25 years, these directories serve as an invaluable substitute—acting like a head-of-household census for residential and business listings. Offering a fascinating glimpse into life in wartime and post-war Britain, they provide detailed information on individuals and businesses during a period of significant social change, making them an essential resource for family historians and researchers alike.”

For more information about TheGenealogist's Directory Records collection or to begin searching these records, visit.https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/directories/ 

We discovered the Scottish explorer Isobel Wylie Hutchison with this release - read her story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2025/a-scottish-lady-in-the-arctic-the-remarkable-life-of-isobel-wylie-hutchison-7987/

Covering 1,000 Square Miles with 128,485 individuals and organisations

TheGenealogist in partnership with The National Archives have launched their expansive Lloyd George Domesday Record Collection for Dorset. The collection features historic maps from 1910 with pins representing records on its innovative MapExplorerTM.

Step back in time and visit “Hardy Country” with TheGenealogist’s latest release, The Lloyd George Domesday for Dorset. These detailed records of house occupancy and ownership cover the rural county in the run up to the First World War. They capture Dorset at a pivotal moment, when the great houses still dominated the landscape and Thomas Hardy himself walked the ancient streets of Dorchester.

Above: Thomas Hardy in the new records

Key Features:

• This release covers 1,000 square miles of Dorset with historic maps and details of 128,485 individuals and organisations

• Records have been linked to pins on detailed maps

• Interactive MapExplorerTM technology lets you explore the area from a century ago

• The Lloyd George Domesday Survey coverage now includes: Greater London, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire

• The project now covers over 9,600 square miles and nearly 4 million individuals and organisations

The survey, originally commissioned by David Lloyd George to assess land value for taxation, provides a unique snapshot of life between 1910 and 1915.

Mark Bayley, Head of Online Content at TheGenealogist, said: "These records are a fantastic insight for family and social historians alike. They capture Dorset at a pivotal moment just before the dramatic social transformations brought by the First World War that would forever change rural England."

The Lloyd George Domesday survey is now available to Diamond subscribers on TheGenealogist.co.uk.

In these records is Thomas Hardy - read his story here:  https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2025/thomas-hardy-7982/

TheGenealogist has added 292,259 newly opened records to its 1939 Register, most of whom were born in 1924. This release includes British comedy legends Benny Hill and Tony Hancock who were recorded living near each other in Bournemouth at the outbreak of WWII.

This significant update enhances TheGenealogist's comprehensive collection of historical records, providing valuable insights into wartime Britain and those who would later shape British entertainment. The 1939 Register, taken on 29th September 1939, serves as a crucial census substitute, capturing detailed information about the civilian population just after the outbreak of World War II.

The newly released records reveal a fascinating snapshot of two future comedy icons in their teenage years. Both Hill and Hancock, then aged 15, were living in Bournemouth. Their distinct comedy styles helped define British entertainment in the post-war era.

"This release not only adds significant genealogical value but also provides unique insights into the early lives of some of Britain's most beloved entertainers," says Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist. "Finding Hill and Hancock recorded just a stone's throw from each other during this pivotal moment in history adds a compelling narrative to our understanding of British entertainment history."

The update is available immediately to Diamond subscribers of TheGenealogist, offering researchers and family historians access to these valuable historical records.

In these records is Benny Hill - read his story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2025/benny-hill-7957/

Leading family history website TheGenealogist has announced the release of 39 comprehensive directories spanning 1935-1940, covering over 6 million individuals and businesses. This significant addition provides family historians and researchers with access to information about individuals and companies in the run up and early days of World War II.

The newly digitised collection includes:

• Over 6 million individuals and businesses

• 39 detailed directories covering various regions

• Searchable information about residences and commercial establishments

Lyndhurst High Street, from TheGenealogist’s Image Archive

"This release represents a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive historical records to genealogists and family historians," says Mark Bayley, Head of Online Development at TheGenealogist. "These directories offer a unique glimpse into the lives of people and businesses operating during the outbreak of the Second World War, providing invaluable context for family researchers."

Users can access these new records through TheGenealogist's advanced search system, which allows for both broad and detailed searches across the entire collection.

In these records is Agatha Christie, Queen of Mystery - read her story here: https://www.thegenealogist.co.uk/featuredarticles/2025/agatha-christie-7954/

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.