Sarah Pettyfer

Blog

Reflections of Research

  • Those Eureka Moments

    This week, I experienced multiple breakthroughs while researching a client’s ancestor. Initially stumped by missing baptism records, I uncovered the family’s history through Land Tax records and a burial entry,… Read more ⇢

  • Sailing Through History

    During the spring half term, a family enjoyed sailing around the picturesque South Ionian Islands of Greece, reflecting on their rich maritime history. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Sailing Holidays has… Read more ⇢

  • Tracing the origins of a grand Georgian house

    This week, I researched the ownership history of Cranley House in Cranleigh, Surrey, a Georgian property built between 1770 and 1830. Formerly a hotel, it was demolished in the 1980s.… Read more ⇢

  • The Story Hidden in Your Surname

    English surnames, originating primarily post-Norman Conquest, embody stories of ancestry, occupation, and geography. Initially ephemeral, they transitioned into hereditary labels reflecting personal lineage, place, or character traits. Surnames serve as… Read more ⇢

  • The World of Millers

    In early 17th-century England, millers along the River Loddon played a crucial yet complex role in rural communities. Responsible for transforming grain into flour, they navigated economic challenges and maintained… Read more ⇢

  • Tracing Lines of Identity: A Week of Heraldic Research Across Borders

    This week’s exploration of heraldry ignited a newfound passion. I delved into the connection between English and Scottish coats of arms, revealing key differences in their systems of descent and… Read more ⇢

  • The world of probate records

    Wills serve as vital resources for family historians, revealing intricate relationships and social structures across generations. They detail familial connections, property inheritance, and can even highlight wider community links. While… Read more ⇢

  • Making the Most of a Sunny Easter

    This week, we embraced the sunny weather during the Easter holidays, prioritising family time over work. Our adventures included exploring Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Mary Rose Museum, as well… Read more ⇢

  • Is the Meaning of Easter Lost to Chocolate Eggs?

    The article explores whether children’s understanding of Easter’s meaning is overshadowed by their excitement for chocolate eggs. It traces the origin of the egg as a symbol of renewal, linking… Read more ⇢

  • Poor law records for C18th and C19th Research

    This week took me into parich chest records to try and identify the ancestors in a project i am working. These can be some of the most valuable records when… Read more ⇢

Read more: Those Eureka Moments