Our Village Ancestors: A Genealogist's Guide to Understanding the English Rural Past

This book provides advice and inspiration on researching farming and countryside ancestors in England, covering the time from the Tudor world to the beginning of the twentieth century. It demonstrates how genealogical records can be illuminated using local newspaper reports and the work of local historians, and explores the stories of people who lived in the countryside in the past, both rich and poor.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2021
Publisher: The Crowood Press Ltd

This comprehensive guide is a invaluable resource for anyone embarking on a journey to uncover the roots of their farming and countryside ancestors in England. By examining rural life through the lens of the English village, it offers insightful advice and inspiration on placing these individuals within their geographic and historical context. Spanning from the early days of parish registers in the Tudor era, when the majority of our ancestors were engaged in agricultural pursuits, to the early twentieth century, when many had transitioned to urban areas, the book provides a rich tapestry of information.

Helen Osborn, the author, highlights the significance of genealogical records in understanding the origins of individuals and their communities. She demonstrates how local newspaper reports and the work of local historians can be used to shed light on these records and reveal the stories of people from both affluent and humble backgrounds who lived in the countryside in the past.

The book is particularly valuable for those seeking a deeper understanding of their family history rather than merely collecting names on a genealogical tree. It offers a wealth of insights and anecdotes that will captivate readers and help them connect with their ancestors on a personal level. Whether you are a seasoned genealogist or a newcomer to the field, this book will be a valuable companion on your journey to uncover the rich tapestry of rural England's past.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 147 x 224 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780719814167