Category Archives: British Newspaper Archive

Extending family history research

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I often broaden my family history research into extended branches of my family tree. This can add greater context to the environment and lives of direct family members. In October 2024 I wrote about a potential extended family member who had fallen foul of the law. At the time I commented that another potential ancestor – one of 9 called Herbert Stirland – had been in a similar situation, although probably not as dire as the one involving a Joseph … Continue reading

Newspaper and Directory Advertisements help to tell a story

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I have been using newspapers a lot recently. One of my current projects has prompted me to explore an extensive range of local and national newspapers in Australia and the UK. I’ve been searching primarily on Trove (trove.nla.gov.au) and on the British Newspaper Archive (http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/) and FindmyPast (www.findmypast.co.uk) to find relevant material. Else Churchill of the Society of Genealogists in London gave an interesting and timely talk on 19th century British newspapers, 18th century Journals, Local Directories and Poll Books … Continue reading

Joan Reese Memorial Short Story Competition 2015

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I have previously encouraged GSQ Writing Group members, and anyone else who will listen, to start writing their family history. As my previous post about Christmas memories demonstrated, many images and thoughts come to your mind when you decide to write on a specific topic. Some of my other (unpublished) thoughts about Christmasses past highlight for me the value of writing my own story. What life was like when I was a child could be as alien to grandchildren, as … Continue reading