Let me take you back in time...
When I tell people I’m a Qualified Genealogist, a look of confusion is not uncommon, “What is a Genealogist?”. However the fact you are reading this means you already have an inkling that we genealogists specialise in researching family histories.
Genealogy, once seen as a dry and boring hobby, is experiencing a surge in interest thanks to TV shows such as ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ and ‘Long Lost Family’, plus the growing popularity of DNA testing kits. However, it can be a hugely time-consuming and frustrating business. That’s where I can help.
You may have begun your genealogy journey but have come up against brick walls you cannot get past to move forward, or indeed backwards, in time!
Let me help you break those down
Perhaps you don’t know where to start? Like many others, you may not know the full names, birthplaces or marriage details of your own grandparents.
Let me reveal who they were
There may be a mystery or legend in your family you are hoping to solve.
Let me help you to unravel it
My Services
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Family Trees
Perhaps Family Trees can be referred to as the ‘nuts and bolts’ of a genealogist’s world. We use a wide variety of sources, both online and offline, to identify your ancestors. All of my research is evidence-based.
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House Histories
Have you ever wondered who walked the corridors of your home before you? When was your house built, by and for whom, and who lived, married, was born and died within its walls? That’s where I come in!
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Research
You may have a research query that doesn’t quite fit within the bounds of Genealogy or a House History. A recent example is a writer who commisioned me to research a public figure before writing a work of historical fiction. Contact me to discuss your project.
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Document Transcription
To the untrained eye, older documents can be very difficult to read. I can help you understand any documents you already have and decipher those I come across in the course of research. This is the process of Palaeography.
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Archive Look Ups
My location in the South East of England means I can often be found in the Essex Records Office. I can perform hard copy document look ups in Essex and London by request. I also have a network of other genealogists I can put you in touch with in other counties who can help with archive look ups.
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DNA
DNA goes hand in hand with the genealogical paper trail. I can help you navigate this sometimes confusing world by interpreting the results of your tests and how they relate to your family tree.
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Writing
I am a contributor to the Essex Family History Magazine covering stories relating to Essex history and genealogy. Please contact me for writing queries.
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Gifts
Many of my clients opt for a family tree or house history as a special birthday or Christmas present. Gift Certificates are also available for my time if there is something specific the recipient would like to uncover.
