Beyond 2011 - Scotland and England/Wales news updates

From the National Records of Scotland (www.nrscotland.gov.uk), an update news on the proposed changes to the gathering of the decennial census:

Beyond 2011 Newsletter November 2013

The Beyond 2011 "Future of census statistics in Scotland" programme is an ongoing programme with the National Records of Scotland (NRS).

We are pleased to announced that we have just published the November edition of our newsletter. The newsletter contains a summary of the consultation on user requirements, and a link to the full document. Also there are updates on the options being considered for producing census type statistics in the future, as well as a host of other interesting related information.

The newsletter can be found at the Beyond 2011 Newsletters section of the NRS website - see http://www.gro-scotland.gov.uk/beyond-2011/reports-and-research/general-reports-publications/newsletters.html


Meanwhile there is also a bit of news on the equivalent initiative south of the border (where the census is separately administered), and the involvement of the FFHS in a consultation:

Beyond Census 2011 Census Consultation

Please be aware that the FFHS has taken part in the Government's consultation about the future of the Census. The consultation will remain open for responses from organisations and individuals until 13 December 2013. Further details can be found on the Federation website at www.ffhs.org.uk/news/news131125.php

(With thanks to Phillippa McCray of the Federation of Family History Societies and the National Records of Scotland)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Bradford - City Library and Local Studies Launch Week

Bradford Local Studies and Bradford Archives are to officially reopen on Monday 9th December at the refurbished Central Library building in the city, now known as Knowledge Tower. There will be a week long programme of events at both the archive and the library to kick off the new era.

For more on the refurbishment and new facilities, see www.bradford.gov.uk/bmdc/leisure_and_culture/library_and_information_services/local_and_family_history.

For the programme of events week commencing Monday 9th December, please visit www.bradford.gov.uk/bmdc/leisure_and_culture/library_and_information_services/events_calendar/City_Library_Launch

(With thanks to Kathryn Hughes)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Who Do You Think You Are series update

The Irish based Independent newspaper is reporting that comedian Brendan O'Glass (Mrs Brown's Boys) is being filmed in Dublin shortly for the next series of Who Do You Think You Are (UK version).

From the article:

O'Carroll, who was born in Finglas and is now based in the US, will shoot his episode of the popular series next month, but it will not air until mid 2014.

The full piece is at www.independent.ie/entertainment/comedian-brendan-ocarroll-for-who-do-you-think-you-are-29785977.html

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

PRONI hours in Belfast

From PRONI (www.proni.gov.uk):

Notice to PRONI Visitors

Please note that during the week 9th to the 13th of December 2013, PRONI will be operating a limited service. The Search Room and Microfilm Self Service Areas will be in operation, however readers will be unable to order any original documents from the stores.

The Search Room and Reading Room will close at 16.45 on Thursday 12th December and Thursday 19th December 2013.

PRONI will be closed to the public on 25th, 26th and 27th December 2013 and 1st January 2014.

(With thanks to Gavin McMahon)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Tax and National Insurance for Self Employed Genies - talk

From genealogist Diana Bouglas:

Forthcoming talk on Tax and National Insurance for Self Employed
Thursday 9 January 2014

Following discussions with other genealogists, it has became apparent that we all want to know more about how to deal with taxation matters related to running a small business. I have now been able to arrange a talk by leading HMRC expert, Fiona Heritage. Fiona had 29 years experience with HM Revenue and Customs and now runs her own consultancy, http://www.taxclever.co.uk . She will cover self assessment, what expenses can be claimed, record keeping and NI contributions and there will be ample opportunity to ask questions. With the 31st January deadline looming for filing your return for 2012/3, this is an ideal opportunity to make sure you are claiming everything you can, whilst staying on the right side of the law.

The talk will be at the Society of Genealogists (London) at 2pm on Thursday 9th January 2014. Directions can be found on the SoG website:

http://www.sog.org.uk/the-library/getting-here/

For anyone who is an SoG member, Thursday is their late night, so you will also have the opportunity to stay until 8pm and use the library.

Places are limited and I'm expecting that this might be a popular topic, so advance booking is advised. The cost is £6, to include light refreshments, which can be paid in advance by cheque (payable to Diana Bouglas). It might be possible to turn up and pay on the day, but please check with me first to make sure there are still places available. All are welcome. You don't have to be an AGRA or SoG member, or even a genealogist. Please contact me (not the SoG) for further details:

Diana Bouglas
14 Beaconsfield Road
Mottingham
London
SE9 4DP
020 8325 3670
diana @ gsgs.co.uk

(With thanks to Diana)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Recent British Newspaper Archive additions

The following titles have been added to the British Newspaper Archive (www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk) in the last 30 days:

• Alnwick Mercury 1950
• Birmingham Journal 1858
• Burnley Express 1907, 1909 - 1910, 1912, 1914 - 1919, 1921, 1925 - 1933, 1936 - 1937, 1940, 1949, 1952
• Grantham Journal 1916 - 1917, 1921 - 1922, 1924
• Hastings and St Leonards Observer 1911, 1915, 1917, 1925, 1928 - 1931, 1933 - 1937, 1941
• Hereford Times 1930, 1935
• Inverness Courier 1938, 1940 - 1941
• Sunderland Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette 1934
• Surrey Mirror 1948
• Sussex Agricultural Express, etc., The 1895 - 1944
• Swindon Advertiser and North Wilts Chronicle. 1884, 1895 - 1896, 1899, 1901 - 1902, 1915, 1918
• Taunton Courier, and Western Advertiser 1820 - 1821
• Wiltshire Independent 1837, 1868, 1870
• Worcester Journal 1938

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Christmas is coming...!

Christmas is coming in four weeks - so if you are short a present or two for your genealogy obsessed granny, granda, aunt, uncle, wife, husband, child, friend or pet animal, there's a few books I've put together which might be of interest, and which should just about squeeze into a stocking!

• Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet
• Discover Scottish Church Records
• Discover Scottish Land Records
• Discover Scottish Civil Registration
• Researching Scottish Family History
• The Mount Stewart Murder

And a few more...!

Details about all - including where to purchase them - are available at http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/p/my-books.html.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

SAFHS conference in 2015 to be in Stirling

An early notice that the 26th conference of the Scottish Association of Family History Societies (www.safhs.org.uk) is to be held in Stirling on April 25th 2015, at Allan Park South Church. It is being hosted by Central Scotland Family History Society (www.csfhs.org.uk).

The 25th annual conference will be held next year in Dunfermline, Fife, on April 26th - for further details see http://britishgenes.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/safhs-2014-conference-update.html.

(With thanks to Chris Halliday via the SGN LinkedIn group)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Explore Your Archive campaign

A new campaign entitled Explore Your Archive (www.exploreyourarchive.org) was formally launched at the Westminster Parliament last Friday, designed to encourage greater participation at local archives across Britain and Ireland.

The National Archives has more on the campaign and its launch at www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/news/893.htm.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

TNA podcast - Treaty of Utrecht

The National Archives at Kew (www.nationalarchives.gov.uk) has uploaded a podcast on The Treaty of Utrecht, based on a 43 minute long talk by author James Falkner on the 1713 treaty.

The podcast is accessible at http://media.nationalarchives.gov.uk/index.php/treaty-utrecht/ or can be downloaded free of charge form iTunes.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Roots Ireland records at 40% discount

RootsIreland (www.rootsireland.ie) has announced yet another discount to its online records, this time for 40%

"Rootsireland.ie is delighted to announce that all records will have a discount of 40% until Wednesday, December 4th 2013 (midnight IrishTime/GMT). You can purchase any record for just 15 credits instead of the usual 25 credits. To obtain this offer just go to the following site and login using your existing IFHF login details. www.rootsireland.ie "

(With thanks to John Reid at Canada's Anglo-Celtic Connections)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Civil Engineer Lists and London Electoral Registers updated on Ancestry

Ancestry has updated a couple of its UK collections:

London, England, Electoral Registers, 1832-1965
http://search.ancestry.co.uk/search/db.aspx?dbid=1795
This now has 159,232,274 names.

UK, Civil Engineer Lists, 1818-1930
http://search.ancestry.co.uk/search/db.aspx?dbid=3787
Now with some 194446 names.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

The Original Record website update

The latest additions to The Original Record website (www.theoriginalrecord.com):

1442-1449
Workers building the Trinity Aisle of Thame church, Oxfordshire
The building accounts of Thame church give details of the expenditure entailed in the building of the Trinity Aisle or north transept from 1442 onwards, listing payments to individual workmen, carting and cutting stone, bringing sand and timber.

1644-1645
Astrologer's Clients
William Lilly, an astrologer, kept practice books listing his clients, their questions and the figures or horoscopes that he cast. Their questions relate to stolen property, probable success in any undertaking, ships at sea, health, long-life, love, marriage, pregnancy, &c. The books came into the possession of Elias Ashmole, who bequeathed them to Oxford University. This calendar was prepared by William Henry Black and printed in 1845. He lists the clients by folio number, remarking 'the names are often omitted, and usually written invertedly, or disguised in some other manner'. Where a date of birth is specified in the practice book, it is given in the calendar. Practice Book I is for consultations from 30 March 1644 to 4 June 1645.

1748
Subscribers to the Devon & Exeter Hospital
List of the governors and other subscribers and contributors to the Devon and Exeter Hospital for Sick and Lame Poor, before the Bishop of Exeter and the other governors. Those subscribing £5 or more per annum were standing members of the committee, by virtue of their subscriptions; those subscribing £2 or more a year were thereby governors; those marked with a star were in 1748 the present members of the elective part of the committee. There were also fourteen governors by virtue of their past benefactions, ranging from £20 to £123 8s.

1798-1800
Board of Stamps Apprenticeship Books: Country Collectors’ Returns
Apprenticeship indentures and clerks' articles were subject to a 6d or 12d per pound stamp duty: the registers of the payments usually give the master's trade, address, and occupation, and the apprentice's name, as well as details of the date and length of the apprenticeship. There are central registers for collections of the stamp duty in London, as well as returns from collectors in the provinces. These collectors generally received duty just from their own county, but sometimes from further afield: in 1770 a change was made to describe many of the collectors according to their county rather than their town, but no change was made to the rule that they might stamp indentures from all the surrounding area, so these labels are deceptive. The indentures themselves can date from a year or two earlier than this return. There are returns from Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Brecknockshire, Bristol, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Cardiganshire, Cheshire, Chester, Cornwall, Cumberland, Denbighshire, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Durham, East Essex, East Kent, Essex, Flintshire, Glamorganshire, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Herefordshire, Hertfordshire, Huntingdonshire, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Middlesex, Monmouthshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Northumberland, Norwich, Nottingham, Oxfordshire, Scotland, Shropshire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Sussex, Warwickshire, Westmorland, Wiltshire, Worcestershire, and Yorkshire, each of which has been indexed separately. IR 1/69

1818
Yorkshire Tenants of William Long Wellesley
The election for a member of parliament to represent Wiltshire drew various accusations against one of the candidates, William Long Wellesley, which in turn elicited this testimonial from his Yorkshire tenantry, signed at York 20 April 1818: 'We do not affirm that those unforeseen evils, or the unprecedented distress, which has been of late so universally felt by the great body of agriculturists throughout the kingdom, has been altogether unfelt by us; but we do affirm, that this burthern has been rendered comparatively light by your well-timed and liberal interference.'

1827
Retired East-India Company Officers
The official list of retired military officers of the Hon. East-India Company gives name (surname and christian name or initials); rank; establishment; and date of retirement - corrected to 1 September 1827.

1845
Prisoners in County Durham
A total of £2272 11d was disbursed by the County Treasurer of Durham from 31 December 1844 to 25 August 1845 to attorneys conducting prosecutions in the county sessions and assizes. The accounts list date of payment; attorney's surname; full name of prisoner; when prosecuted; and cost. The abbreviations used are 1 S. for Epiphany Sessions; 2 S., Easter Sessions; 3 S., Midsummer Sessions; 4 S., Michaelmas Sessions; Spl. S., Special Sessions; Sp. A., Spring Assizes; S. A., Summer Assizes; W. A., Winter Assizes.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Family Tree DNA sale

Family Tree DNA is holding an end of year sale on various tests, with all Family Finder tests accompanied by a $100 gift card. The sale expires end of play December 31st 2013.

For full details visit www.familytreedna.com/holiday-sale.aspx.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

Genealogy in Time magazine's fifth birthday

Happy fifth birthday to the Genealogy in Time online magazine, which first started in November 2008. The latest edition is now available online at http://www.genealogyintime.com/.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/.

London's East End Preservation Society launch

From Stepney History:

Dear friends of East End heritage:

Please come to the launch of
THE EAST END PRESERVATION SOCIETY
Wednesday 27 November 2013 at 6.30pm
Bishopsgate Institute
230 Bishopsgate
London EC2M 4QH

The East End Preservation Society has been set up in the wake of the recent demolitions of Mother Levy's Jewish Maternity Home and the Poplar Employment Exchange and in the face of the recent plans to demolish the London Fruit and Wool Exchange and wartime "Mickey's Shelter", 'The Gun' public house, Barclays Bank and Dorset Street; also Cheviot House and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for Children.

The Spitalfields Life blog has the details: http://spitalfieldslife.com/2013/11/14/the-east-end-preservation-society/

To join the campaign to Save the London Fruit and Wool Exchange:
https://www.facebook.com/SaveTheLondonFruitandWoolExchange

For background on the lost Mother Levy's:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Save-Mother-Levys/142259705878324

Local history groups, local heritage campaigners, Tower Hamlets history enthusiasts - please come on Wednesday evening in support of East End heritage. Please also publicise this to fellow campaigners and your members and above all - spread the word around the East End!

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Scottish Ordnance Survey Name Books exhibition

From the latest ScotlandsPeople newsletter:

From Ae to Zetland: Scotland in the Ordnance Survey Name Books

A free exhibition about these fascinating records of Scottish places and people is marking the completion of a big project to put all the Name Books on the ScotlandsPlaces website. It opens on Friday 6 December, when the last books will become available online.

Starting on the Isle of Lewis in the 1840s, the Ordnance surveyors took in Ae in Dumfriesshire during the 1850s, covered the rest of the mainland and the islands from the 1850s to 1870s, and finally reached Zetland (Shetland) in 1877-78. The Name Books include all the names of man-made and natural features that are shown on the first Ordnance Survey maps of Scotland. They also list the 'authorities' who informed them of spellings and meanings, which provides a potential source for family historians.

The free exhibition runs at the National Records of Scotland, Register House, 2 Princes Street, Edinburgh from 6 December until 31 January 2014.

To find out more about the Ordnance Survey Name Books and to view two examples (from parishes in Old Deer in Aberdeenshire and the Isle of Mull), visit http://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk/Content/Help/index.aspx?r=2225.

(With thanks to ScotlandsPeople)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

National Library of Ireland staff member arrested

The Gardaí in the Republic of Ireland have arrested a 35 year old member of staff from the National Library of Ireland (www.nli.ie) over the alleged theft of rare books and manuscripts over the last year from the facility. Some 250 books, pamphlets and historical documents were located in a raid at the staff member's house, with the total value of all items believed to be worth about €100,000.

The full story is reported in the Irish Times at www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/garda%C3%AD-arrest-national-library-staffer-over-missing-books-1.1603297

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Moving the British Library's newspapers to Yorkshire

The BBC has a video feature on the closure of the British Library's newspaper archive at Colindale, and the new £33 million facility at Boston Spa in West Yorkshire. The feature is available at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-25041871.

For readers in Scotland and the north of England, I called the new facility in Yorkshire two weeks ago as part of preparations for a talk I was giving on newspapers, and was advised that there are plans to open a reader's room at there within the next year - much closer than having to travel down to London! For those in the south of England, the newspaper reading room facility can now be accessed at the main British Library building at St Pancras, though many titles will be unavailable during the next few months because of the archive move.

(With thanks to John Reid at Canada's Anglo-Celtic Connections blog)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Durham Records Online additions

New releases on Durham Records Online (www.durhamrecordsonline.com):

Newcastle All Saints baptisms 1827-1830
3,488 baptisms at All Saints church in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Northumberland, covering 1827-1830, from the Bishop's Transcript with some checking against the original register.

Earsdon baptisms & burials 1773-1812
4,516 baptisms and 3,526 burials at Earsdon St. Alban in Tynemouth district in the county of Northumberland, covering 1777-1812, from the Bishop's Transcript with extensive checking against the original register. This includes the detail-rich period, which at Earsdon started a bit earlier than usual.

Evenwood Cemetery 1871-1998
4,510 burials at Evenwood Cemetery, which opened on the north edge of Evenwood (in Auckland district) in 1871 to handle burials for the nearby parishes.

Baptisms at Hetton-le-Hole St. Nicholas in Houghton-le-Spring district
959 baptisms covering 1838-1842.

Haverton Hill baptisms & burials 1866-1872
206 baptisms and 137 burials at Haverton Hill St. John the Baptist in Stockton district, from the Bishop's Transcript. This little parish was carved out of Billingham in 1862, but the registers don't start until 1866.

Coming Soon:

• Newcastle All Saints baptisms 1831-1834
• Durham Primitive Methodist Circuit baptisms 1856-1874
• Ryton Cemetery burials 1884-1998
• Sunderland: Spring Garden Lane Presbyterian Chapel baptisms 1813-1837
• Hexham marriages 1837-1842
• Earsdon baptisms and burials 1762-1772
• Ryton Cemetery burials 1884-1939
• Blaydon cemetery burials 1873-1998
• Stella St. Cuthbert burials 1873-1906

(With thanks to Holly Cochran)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Battle of Jutland and WW1 teachers records online at TheGenealogist

Two new collections from The Genealogist (www.thegenealogist.co.uk):

7,000 new naval war records from The Battle of Jutland now available to view in the ‘Roll of Honour’ collection on TheGenealogist

Did your ancestor participate in the largest naval battle of The First World War? Now available to Gold and Diamond subscribers to TheGenealogist is a full record set of the Royal Navy servicemen killed or wounded in the Battle of Jutland. TheGenealogist is the only family history site to provide a complete specialist section devoted to these battle records.

After a number of smaller naval engagements in the first two years of World War One, the Battle of Jutland was the first major naval battle involving the large dreadnought battleships on both sides. Involving 250 ships and around 100,000 men it was the major naval military battle of the First World War.

After breaking German code, the British knew of the German plan to try to destroy the British fleet in two engagements and so left port to use the element of surprise and catch the German fleet off the coast of Denmark. What was hoped to be a decisive British victory turned into a confused and bloody battle with many British casualties.

The Royal Navy lost 14 ships and suffered nearly 7,000 casualties. The Germans lost 11 ships and 2,551 men. Confused leadership and poor quality ammunition hindered the Royal Navy in the battle and the losses shook morale in Britain at the time.

The new Battle of Jutland records provide a full list of the men killed or wounded in the battle with their rank, name of ship and date of death taken from official Admiralty sources. Records of the men lost range from Rear Admiral Robert Arbuthnot, commander of the 1st Cruiser Squadron who went down with his flagship HMS Defence, to 16 year old Jack Rutland who although mortally wounded stayed at his post on board the damaged HMS Chester.

Although the losses were heavy, the Royal Navy was still a major fighting force and the German fleet never put to sea again in such large numbers to channel British sea superiority.

Available to view in the ‘Roll of Honour’ section of the Military Records on TheGenealogist, the records are taken from the Battle of Jutland ‘New Perspective’ publication which studied the battle in detail.

Mark Bayley, Head of Online Content at TheGenealogist comments: “As we near one hundred years since the start of the First World War, TheGenealogist has added further unique records to its already extensive military collections.”


National Union of Teachers War Records 1914-1919

The Diamond subscription on TheGenealogist now has over 18,000 new records to access from the ‘National Union of Teachers’ War Records from 1914 to 1919. These records include a list of teachers who joined the forces, those who received honours, and also those who were sadly killed, plus other information relating to the National Union of Teachers during the war.

Covering all N.U.T. members who served in the war and also discussing issues of the time, such as pensions, salary levels of teachers who joined the army and fund raising for relief in Europe.

The records are a comprehensive list of members of the National Union of Teachers who served in the Great War. The teaching profession and its members responded to the great nationwide pressure to ‘do their bit’, with most male teachers of service age answering the call to arms.

The records provide an interesting insight into how a specific profession and its union coped with the events of The Great War. Taken from the National Union of Teachers War Records 1914 to 1919 publication, the records can be found in the War Service Lists in the Military Records section on TheGenealogist.

Mark Bayley, Head of Online Content at TheGenealogist comments: “The war affected so many lives, but it can often be hard to trace records for those who survived. This is why TheGenealogist is committed to providing more unique records of those who survived, whether they are casualty lists, prisoners of war, or in this case full service lists for specific professions. We are aiming to continually add more of these specialist records to provide family historians with more unique data at their fingertips.”

(With thanks to David Osborne)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Three Moray libraries reprieved - four still to close

Three of the seven libraries earmarked for closure in Moray have been reprieved - Cullen, Burghead and Dufftown - leaving Hopeman, Portknockie, Findochty and Rothes still to be closed.

The BBC has the story at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-25016143.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

TNA podcast - death duty registers

A slightly more useful podcast from the National Archives at Kew, for genealogical research, is one entitled Death and taxes: understanding the death duty registers, from a recent talk by Dave Annal.

At under 40 minutes it can be listened to at http://media.nationalarchives.gov.uk/index.php/death-taxes-understanding-death-duty-registers/ or downloaded for free from iTunes.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

TNA podcast - Coronations

The latest podcast from the National Archives at Kew is entitled Coronations, running at 41 minutes in length, from a talk by Dr Adrian Ailes.

For more information, or to listen to the podcast, visit http://media.nationalarchives.gov.uk/index.php/coronations/ - it can also be freely downloaded at iTunes.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Ireland's volunteer armies, 1913 - two traditions or one?

News of a forthcoming hedge school debate to be held in Belfast:

History Ireland and the Irish Association cordially invite you to a Hedge School @ Belfast City Hall

VOLUNTEERS 1913: two traditions or one?

A century ago the imminence of Home Rule provoked the founding of two private armies in Ireland: the Ulster Volunteers (January) to oppose it and the Irish Volunteers (November) to defend it. Both went on to become part of their respective communities’ subsequent ‘narratives’: the UVF in the 36th (Ulster Division) at the Battle of the Somme and after 1920 in the Ulster Special Constabulary; and the Irish Volunteers in the 1916 Easter Rising and the War of Independence that followed. The resultant complexities will be the topic of this Hedge School.

Location: @ Belfast City Hall
Date and time: 6pm, Tuesday 10 Dec 2013
RSVP: bookings @ historyireland.com or Tel: 00 353 1 2933568

The event is free but booking essential to secure a place. To book please email: bookings @ historyireland.com.

Light refreshments, before the event, from 5.30pm at Belfast City Hall for all attending the Hedge School. A guided tour of Belfast City Hall will be available at 3.30pm.

THE PANEL
Hedge School ‘master’ Tommy Graham (History Ireland editor) with—Lar Joye (National Museum of Ireland), Michael Laffan (UCD), Timothy Bowman (University of Kent) and Philip Orr (New Perspectives—Politics, Religion and Conflict in Mid-Antrim, 1911–1914).

If you have additional requirements please contact us in advance, either by email, bookings @ historyireland.com, or phone Helen at the History Ireland office, 00 353 1 2933568.

Supported by the Reconciliation Fund, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and
Belfast City Council Good Relations Programme

(With thanks to Gavin McMahon at PRONI)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Mocavo attempts to create OCR for handwriting

The Mocavo genealogy search platform (www.mocavo.com) is attempting to create a system of optical character recognition that can interpret old forms of handwriting. Optical character recognition, or OCR, is a software programme that can allow a computer to read text included within a digitised image, something that allows us, for example, to search historic newspapers that have been digitised and placed online. It's an interesting challenge - some would say an impossible challenge! - but they seem to be making quite a bit of progress on it, with the team having already achieved the ability to differentiate between handwriting and printed text on the same page.

There's a progress report on its efforts via its latst nesletter at http://us7.campaign-archive2.com/?u=952c099c101b4a6eb04bdc42a&id=8b01cc2a9e&e=65eb341d94 - definitely one to keep an eye on.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Commemorative plaques to mark Year of Natural Scotland

From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):

Nominations sought for Commemorative Plaques to mark Year of Natural Scotland

People are being asked to put forward their nominations for the historic figures they would like to see honoured in the second year of the Commemorative Plaques Scheme for Scotland. This year’s theme is to celebrate the Year of Natural Scotland.

The call for nominations was launched by Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs.

She said: “The launch of the Commemorative Plaque Scheme for Scotland has been very well received. The theme for the second year is inspired by the Year of Natural Scotland, celebrating Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty and culture.

“Scotland is known around the world for its outstanding landscape. We have a wealth of historic figures whose incredible achievements have been inspired by Scotland’s stunning natural and historic settings from conservationists to artists, writers, architects, chefs and teachers.

“This scheme will ensure that all of these exceptional individuals are given the recognition they deserve and their accomplishments appreciated by future generations.”

There will be a maximum of 12 plaques awarded every year and these will be decided by an independent academic panel, still to be announced.

People are invited to submit their nominations for the historic figures they would like to put forward by filling in an application form on Historic Scotland’s website - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/commemorativeplaques - with up to 1,000 words on two questions explaining why their chosen person is appropriate for a Commemorative Plaque.

The closing date for applications is 31st December 2013.

(With thanks to Paul Spence)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Death notices from the Forres Gazette

From Moray & Nairn Family History Society:

Death Notices, Articles Concerning Deaths and Obituaries from the Forres Gazette, 1837-1855

Unlike today, in 1837 there was no newspaper published in Forres and the people of the town had to content themselves with newspapers from other parts of Scotland, and further afield.

Scottish newspapers that might just contain small snippets of news local to Forres were being printed in Edinburgh, Glasgow and elsewhere. Local articles might also appear in newspapers published in Inverness and Aberdeen. Between Inverness and Aberdeen, though, the only local newspaper being published at that time seems to have been the Elgin Courant which started in 1836.

John Miller, a son of Elgin clothier and draper Lachlan Miller, left the town in
1837 when he chose to move to Forres to open there a printing establishment, and in June that year, posters were displayed announcing the publication of a new newspaper, the Forres, Elgin & Nairn Gazette, still going strong in the town today as the Forres Gazette. Starting as a monthly publication of only four pages, it was not until 1851 that it was published fortnightly and only from April 1855, weekly.

The notices cover deaths in Forres, the near neighbourhood, the rest of the county, throughout the country and even overseas. Examples can be found of notices from Australia, Canada, India and other parts of what was to become the British Empire and also from the United States and more unexpected places such as Paris, Buenos Ayres, Gambia etc.

There are announcements of the death of the illustrious, the well-known and the humble. The shortest announcement may be one from December 1838 which simply states, “Died, at Elgin, last month, James Hay, Porter.” The longest announcement and obituary is probably that for the Rev Thomas Stark whose death is announced in the issue of February 1849 and whose obituary occupies many columns of the next issue on March 1849.

The series, in three parts, around 100pp each, is available from Moray & Nairn FHS - the cost of each part only £6, p&p extra.

Email publications @ morayandnairnfhs.co.uk, or write to the Society at c/o 39a Park Street, Nairn IV12 4PP.

(With thanks to Doug Stewart)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Associated Press and Quaker collections on Ancestry

Ancestry (www.ancestry.co.uk) has added several collections in the last few days:

Associated Press, Subject Card Index to AP Stories, 1937–1985
Associated Press, Service Bulletin, 1904-1927
Associated Press, The AP World, 1943–2001
Associated Press, Name Card Index to AP Stories, 1905-1990

The Associated Press is a New York based news gathering and transmission corporation, but a quick search of the databases has already found mentions of some of my family members here in England and Scotland.


England & Wales, Quaker Birth, Marriage, and Death Registers, 1578-1837

These are GRO records held at the National Archives under RG6, and previously available on both The Genealogist and the BMD Registers websites.

To access the collections visit http://www.ancestry.co.uk/cs/reccol/default or search via the card catalogue.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Tar Abhaile - Irish based reverse genealogy TV series

In a recent CPD day organised by the Scottish Genealogy Network (http://scottishgenealogynetwork.blogspot.co.uk/) we had a discussion on ancestral tourism, particularly in light of next year's Homecoming in Scotland. As a part of this I explained to our group the success of the Irish reverse genealogy initiative, Ireland Reaching Out (http://irelandxo.com/), which since 2010 has been pro-actively searching for the descendants of the Irish diaspora worldwide, rather than waiting for it to look for its ancestral connection. The Gathering in Ireland this year has progressed this idea further.

The Irish Independent had a feature last Friday that discusses a new six part TV series in the Republic of Ireland that now celebrates some of the successes of this initiative. Entitled Tar Abhaile (Come home), it started last Sunday on TG4, and will recall some twelve success stories, showcasing how the reverse genealogy initiative has worked in the country. For more on the series see http://www.independent.ie/lifestyle/the-emigrants-were-bringing-home-ourselves-29755547.html.

TG4 is available at http://www.tg4.ie/ - you will find episode 1 at the TG4 player located at http://nasc.tg4.tv/1d8fIlU.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

IGRS places Irish wills index online

From the IGRS:

The Irish Genealogical Research Society has launched a new online index to abstracts and transcripts of Irish wills.

The destruction of the Public Record Office of Ireland in 1922 consumed virtually all of Ireland’s pre-1858 testamentary records. During the decades following, efforts were made by various institutions and individuals to locate copies and abstracts of Irish wills. The IGRS wills card index is an early and praiseworthy attempt by IGRS members to build a central database of genealogical abstracts from a variety of testamentary sources.

The index includes references from a number of important and lesser known collections, referring to wills from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. . It notes Irish Prerogative and Consistorial wills from the Betham Collection as well as from the Prerogative Court of Canterbury; the Welply Collection at the Society of Genealogists, plus the Swanzy Collection held by the IGRS.

Other sources are not only wills deposited at the Library, or quoted in our manuscript collection, but also wills held in private collections quoted in the IGRS annual journal, The Irish Genealogist, as well as in other journals. In addition, the card index also includes many regional wills & administrations.

There are approximately 4000 cards in all and while they stretch from Acheson to Young, those from A to F are slightly better covered than the rest of the alphabet.

In each case, the full source for the abstract is quoted, and great pains were taken to show family relationships, making this an essential reference for anyone involved in Irish genealogy.

This important new resource joins a fast growing collection of records -- many of them unique -- now being made available on the Society's website www.IrishAncestors.ie. While the Wills Index is one of several resources accessible to Members-only (annual subscription: £21/€26/US$35), others records and databases can be viewed by non-members in the publicly accessible Unique Resources section of the site.

Sample card

(With thanks to Steven Smyrl)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Lanarkshire Police Historical Society

Details of a new Scottish organisation researching police history:

Lanarkshire Police Historical Society

A new organisation dedicated to the history of the Lanarkshire police force is holding a display of memorabilia in Motherwell this weekend. Formed in May of this year, the Lanarkshire Police Historical Society aims to act as a focal point and network for all who are interested in policing in the county. It’ll encourage the preservation of police archives and artefacts, as well as promoting their accessibility to the general public.

The Society intends to promote research into all aspects of the history of the police in Lanarkshire and to publish the results. It’ll forge and maintain strategic links with the local community and relevant academic institutions; and hopes in future to have a permanent display of memorabilia somewhere in the central Lanarkshire area.

There’s the chance of a preview of some of those artefacts this weekend, when the Society holds a display of memorabilia, including badges, truncheons, hats and handcuffs, as well as other items and records. It’s being hosted on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th November between 12 noon and 4.00 pm by Lanarkshire Family History Society in its Resource Centre at 122-124 Merry Street, Motherwell (above Hara, Hill and Wason – enter via the car park at the rear).

While membership of the LPHS is aimed primarily at serving and retired police officers and staff, the display is open to anyone who is interested in police history. Donations of police memorabilia to the Society would be much appreciated.

Anyone who’d like to find out more about the Society can contact George Barnsley on 07584 219405 or email him on george[at]barnsleyandbarnsley.co.uk.

Lanarkshire Police Motherwell Section in the 1920s

(With thanks to Elizabeth Irving)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

National Library of Scotland Christmas fair

From the National Library of Scotland (www.nls.uk):

NLS Christmas Fair 2013

Tuesday 3rd December
6pm
George IV Bridge, Edinburgh

Join us on Tuesday 3rd December for carols, mince pies, mulled wine and 15% off in the Library shop. From calendars and candles to books and accessories, you're sure to find the perfect gifts. We look forward to seeing you there!

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Life in London’s Anglican Parishes - exhibition

Details of a new exhibition at London Metropolitan Archives, running until February 13th 2014:

Life in London’s Anglican Parishes

LMA’s new exhibition explores life in London’s Anglican parishes. We hold records from over 800 parishes and cannot survey their history in detail, but with this exhibition we aim to show how the parishes touched the lives of their parishioners. Baptism, marriage and burial registers are the obvious way, but we also explore the parish’s responsibility for the poor and sick, the provision of fire engines to safe guard the safety of its community, and the present day hosting of local community groups, social clubs and social events. The display also illustrates parishes’ responsibilities in raising money for communities beyond London, for example for freeing captives in Algiers.

The exhibition is open during our normal opening hours, details of which can be found on our website. Please note our Christmas closure period.

For further details visit http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/visiting-the-city/archives-and-city-history/london-metropolitan-archives/news-and-events/Pages/parish-exhibition.aspx

(With thanks to the latest LMA newsletter)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

London business archive guide

London Metropolitan Archives has placed a new collections guide online entitled Business: Unlock the riches of the archives of London commerce and trade with the world : A-Z business listing.

From the introduction:

This guide is a key finding aid to help researchers unlock the rich and substantial business archives of international importance held by London Metropolitan Archives. The purpose of the guide is to enable researchers to identify particular collections through a summarised list arranged alphabetically by organisation name. The entries are also indexed by trade and geographical remit (where interests were held outside the United Kingdom). Researchers can navigate to the online catalogue for detailed information on particular collections of interest.

The 367 page guide lists details of all the business records held by LMA, and can be consulted online and downloaded in PDF format from http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/visiting-the-city/archives-and-city-history/london-metropolitan-archives/the-collections/Documents/business-a-to-z-listing.pdf

(With thanks to the latest LMA newsletter)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

More Irish Petty Sessions records online

FindmyPast Ireland (www.findmypast.ie) has added a further 2.6 million court records to its Irish Petty Sessions Court Registers 1828-1912 collection.

For a list of the new additions, visit www.findmypast.ie/articles/news/another-petty-sessions-court-records-top-up.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

University of Strathclyde's Bannockburn project

From the University of Strathclyde's postgraduate programme in genealogical studies (www.strath.ac.uk/genealogy/)

The University of Strathclyde Postgraduate Programme in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies has officially announced that it is running a Bannockburn Project to mark the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn in 2014. This will throw light on the participants in the Battle from a genealogical point of view and will culminate in an exhibition featuring work by current Diploma level students, hosted by the National Trust for Scotland, in their new Bannockburn Visitor Centre, from Saturday 21 June to Saturday 2 August 2014. The Project also has an exciting genetic genealogy component.

For more details see the Project website at www.strath.ac.uk/genealogy/bannockburn/.

(With thanks to Tahitia McCabe)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Royal Navy ships destroyed during WW1

From FindmyPast (www.findmypast.co.uk):

Findmypast.co.uk adds details of Royal Navy ships destroyed during WW1

Leading family history website, findmypast.co.uk has published some fascinating new military records online, in partnership with The National Archives.

Over 500 British Royal Navy ships were lost at sea during the First World War. Thanks to these new records, you can now discover more about the vessels that were destroyed.

The WW1 Ships Lost at Sea records are available on all findmypast websites and can provide the following information:

· Ship name
· Date it was destroyed
· Number of officers killed or wounded
· How and where it was destroyed

For more information and to search the records, please visit http://search.findmypast.co.uk/search-united-kingdom-records/military-armed-forces-and-conflict/ww1-ships-lost-at-sea-1914-1919

(With thanks to Amy Bull)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Family history weekend in Newton Abbot

South Devon Family History Club and Devon Family History Society are holding a family history weekend, starting tomorrow, Friday 15th November and continuing on Saturday 16th, at Passmore Edwards Centre in Newton Abbot.

For further details visit www.thisisdevon.co.uk/Don-t-miss-chance-research-family-history-free/story-20078354-detail/story.html#ixzz2kdgK7JJx

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Congratulations to University of Strathclyde genealogy students

The graduation ceremony for students who have recently completed the University of Strathclyde's Postgraduate Courses in Genealogical, Paleographic and Heraldic Studies took place yesterday in Glasgow. The ceremony was recorded and has been placed on YouTube - you'll find the genies at 27 minutes in!

If you are interested in studying the university's postgraduate courses, which are now conducted entirely online as distance learning courses, please visit http://www.strath.ac.uk/genealogy/ - and congratulations to all those who have completed the certificate, diploma and masters courses in the last year (including three of my certificate students, Fiona Mitford, Karen Young and Cheryl Ross!)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Relocated probate service in London

From the Federation of Family History Societies (www.ffhs.org.uk):

With effect from Monday 21 October 2013 the London Probate search facility currently ar High Holborn will be moving to Court 38, Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London WC2A 2LL

The opening hours will be 9am to 4pm although please note the search facility will be unavailable between the hours of 1-2pm.

The fee payable for this service should be paid at the Fees Office, Royal Courts of Justice, which is signposted within the building. Maps will also be available prior to the opening of the search facility at the new location.

The search facility will consist of the same search facilities as now, there will still be no Level One Service, copies ordered for collection will be ready after 48 Hours, if you have requested the postal option, and the copies will be posted within 14 working days.

If you have any enquiries please contact a member of the London Probate team on 020 7947 6043

(With thanks to Else Churchill, SoG, Peter Calver, Lostcousins, and Beryl Evans, FFHS)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Fianna Fail founder's papers donated to Newry and Mourne Museum

An archive of personal papers belong to Irish nationalist politician Eamonn Donnelly, one of the founders of political party Fianna Fáil in the Republic of Ireland in 1926, has been donated to Newry and Mourne Museum. Donnelly was born in County Armagh in 1877 and secured electoral victories on both sides of the Irish border.

The BBC has the full story at www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-24912163.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Procurement of Online Family History Service for Wales

The National Library of Wales (www.llgc.org.uk) has put a contract up for tender for a new "online Family History Service for Welsh Library Authorities, Archive Services and Museums".

Here's the summary:

The provision of an On-line Family History Service for Welsh Library Authorities, Archive Services and Museums. This should provide access to a range of Family History Resources, such as census records; births, marriages and deaths; and other relevant records for Wales, the UK and other countries. The on-line service should have excellent usability and accessibility as well as training and marketing support and usage statistics. The on-line service should be bilingual. The contract is initially for a period of 2 years, beginning on the 1st April 2014, with the possibility of 2 extensions of a year each.

For further details on the tender visit http://www.sell2wales.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=NOV013257

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Tracing Your Limerick Ancestors

A second edition of Tracing Your Limerick Ancestors by Margaret Franklin has been published by Flyleaf Press.

For further details visit http://www.flyleaf.ie/book/view/3-Tracing%20your%20Limerick%20Ancestors

(With thanks to Jim Ryan)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Genealogy in the Sunshine speakers announced

A quick update on the Lost Cousins (www.lostcousins.com) hosted Genealogy in the Sunshine event in Portugal next March which I'll be speaking at.

Peter Calver has now announced the following additional speakers for the event as follows:

• Else Churchill, Genealogist at the Society of Genealogists. Genealogy incarnate :)
• Debbie Kennett, author and Honorary Research Associate in the Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment at University College London. DNA incarnate :)
• John Hanson, Research Director of the Halsted Trust, and former trustee of the Society of Genealogists.
• Donald Davis, whose ground-breaking research into the householder schedules for the 1841 Census was revealed earlier this year in The Local Historian.

Bookings are almost filled, but there's still room for one or two more - for more details on the speakers and additional news stories from the genie world, read Peter's latest Lost Cousins newsletter at www.lostcousins.com/newsletters/nov13news.htm#GenealogyintheSunshine.

It's going to be a lot of fun! :)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Bletchley Park history and archive course

Bletchley Park has announced that it will be holding a history and archive course on site on December 9th from 10am to 3pm, priced £20.

The course will cover:

• The pre-war history of Bletchley Park
• Some codebreaking
• A summary of the Wartime work carried out and some of the characters involved
• A rare opportunity to access some of the items in the archive of GCHQ material

For further details visit www.bletchleypark.org.uk/calendar/d.rhtm/714371-Bletchley-Park-History-and-Archive-Course.html

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

WW1 Scottish Medical Service Emergency Committee database

The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (www.rcpe.ac.uk) has launched an online database of the Scottish Medical Service Emergency Committee, established on August 12th 1914 to co-ordinate civilian medical cover for Scottish doctors who undertook military service during the First World War. The database contains over 3000 records.

To search the database visit http://smsec.rcpe.ac.uk - further details are available at www.rcpe.ac.uk/news/ww1-scottish-medical-database

(With thanks to ScotlandsPeople via Facebook)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Conservation work at Kisimul Castle

From the Historic Scotland and RCAMHS joint newsletter:

A commitment to Kisimul

One of Scotland's most iconic castles is to undergo major conservation, archaeological and interpretation work as part of a plan agreed between Historic Scotland and Macneil of Barra.

Kisimul Castle of the Isle of Barra is regarded as the most significant medieval castle in the Western Isles. The work, which will see an investment of over £200,000, half of which is coming from funds donated by Clan Macneil members, represents a unique opportunity to conserve and secure the site for current and future generations. It will also result in an improved visitor experience and ensure that the fabric and structure of the castle are conserved for years to come. Gaelic will be a key consideration in the interpretation that will be developed for the site.

As part of the plan, three key projects will be completed by the end of 2015 - re-roofing the flat roof over the hall, reinforcing concrete structures and overhauling the chapel roof and incorporating a new timber walkway. Upgrading works to slipways at the Castle and on the shore will follow at a later date. Historic Scotland have made special efforts to record local knowledge of the source of materials used to build the Castle. In this way, it should be easier to more accurately conserve the fabric of Kisimul.

Rory Macneil, the 47th Clan Chief said, 'Agreement on the conservation plan is a milestone in the long and varied history of Kisimul Castle. It opens the door to completion of the immediate projects covered by the plan and long term conservation of this unique structure. This plan will help ensure that Kisimul continues to play a central, symbolic and economic role in Barra and Vatersay, and to serve as an inspiration to MacNeils around the world.'

Ian Walford, Chief Executive of Historic Scotland said, 'Kisimul Castle is a true icon of the Western Isles, representing Barra's rich, colourful and sometimes turbulent history. There are few castles of this nature in Scotland, sitting proud in the island's main harbour and for most visitors it is their first experience of Barra's historic environment. We are delighted to be launching this plan. Working in partnership with Macneil of Barra, this plan will conserve and enhance a truly magical site in a spectacular Scottish setting for future generations to come.'

(The full newsletter is available at http://rcahms.cmph.org/o/JlC5vQI2RCA)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Ancestry Library Edition available in Angus libraries

Angus Libraries has now gained access to the Library Edition of Ancestry (www.ancestry.co.uk), which is now being made available in the libraries' People's Network Learning Centres.

The Brechin Advertiser has the story at www.brechinadvertiser.co.uk/news/community-news/access-family-history-for-free-1-3176108.

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.

Cáillte sa Chogadh (Lost in the War) on TG4

The Irish language channel TG4 is showing a documentary tomorrow evening (Sunday) at 9.30pm entitled Cáillte sa Chogadh (Lost in the War), as part of the Cogar series. Here's the blurb from the channel's listings site at www.tg4.ie/en/tv-listings/tv-listings.html?date=2013-11-10

Former teacher Phil Stuart sets out to uncover the story behind a long lost family heirloom, a journey which follows that of his uncle Private Willie McGaw, to Scotland and on to the battlefields of Northern France during World War One, where Phil finds the final resting place of Willie.

I did a wee bit of research on this for the Belfast based production company Tobar Productions, based at the Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich, so looking forward to seeing it! I've been advised by Michaeline Donnelly that it should be streamed on the TG4 website (www.tg4.ie) at the time of transmission, and then available subsequently on its media player.

(With thanks to Michaeline @ohmodhia)

Chris

My latest book, Discover Scottish Civil Registration Records, is now available from http://www.gould.com.au (print) and http://www.gen-ebooks.com/unlock-the-past.html (ebook), whilst Tracing Your Irish Family History on the Internet is available at http://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tracing-Your-Irish-History-on-the-Internet/p/3889/. My next Pharos Scottish course, Scotland 1750-1850: Beyond the OPRs, starts Nov 13th - see http://pharostutors.com.