Blog
Reflections of Research
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The Genealogical Proof Standard:
The Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) provides a framework for validating genealogical research. It emphasises conducting thorough searches, accurate citations, evidence analysis, conflict resolution, and sound conclusions. By moving beyond mere… Read more ⇢
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Taxing the Past:
Researching the development of Cranleigh in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, taxation records like Lay Subsidies and the Hearth Tax reveal insights into the community. While both records require careful… Read more ⇢
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A Visit to the Parliamentary Archives at Kew
This week, I visited The National Archives at Kew to explore newly available House of Lords records. I learned about Santobrite, a fungicide used for preservation, which necessitated extra handling… Read more ⇢
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Looking Beyond the Obvious: What I’ve Been Working On Recently
Over the summer, I focused on archival research for my Licentiateship, particularly examining Chancery records and land documentation. I aim to help others navigate historical archives, encouraging them to explore… Read more ⇢
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Beyond the Bill:
The author explores seventeenth-century Chancery records from an inheritance dispute in Surrey, focusing on interrogatories and depositions. These documents provide detailed insights into family relationships, ownership, and local perceptions. Unlike… Read more ⇢
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Lost in Translation?
Transcribing medieval manorial court records presents challenges due to inconsistent Latin spelling and unfamiliar handwriting. While translation can be manageable with known phrases, understanding clerks’ writings is crucial. Recognising patterns… Read more ⇢
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Hidden Stories in Chancery Records
The author reflects on preparing a lecture about Chancery records for genealogical research, highlighting their value as rich sources of family history. These records provide insights into familial disputes and… Read more ⇢
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More Than Just an Inheritance
Inquisitions Post Mortem (IPM) are vital medieval land records that provide insights into landownership, inheritance, and family relationships following a tenant’s death. They assist family historians and genealogists in reconstructing… Read more ⇢
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Spring Cleaning… in Summer!
The post reflects on the tradition of spring cleaning, linking it to historical practices across cultures that symbolise renewal. It highlights its Victorian significance due to the necessity of cleaning… Read more ⇢
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Don’t overlook Particulars of Sale!
Auction sale particulars, often overlooked, offer significant insights into a property’s history. Examining details from Northease Farm’s 1919 catalogue reveals its scale, tenant, and community aspects, alongside descriptions of buildings… Read more ⇢
