Other blogs

I have two other blogs, DNA Discoveries, where I have shared some stories about how I've used DNA techniques together with traditional research to solve some family history dilemmas. My other blog, Roll of Honour documents the stories of some of my ancestors with military connections. 

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Maggie Moore Conundrum

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My 2 x great grandmother, Maggie (or Margaret Jane) Moore was born c1873, presumably in County Down, Ireland. Despite an exhaustive search, a birth certificate and confirmation of her parentage have not yet been found, or have they? Believed to be Margaret Jane Conway nee Moore, seated on right with daughter, Margaret Jane Martin nee Conway on left and grandchildren, William, Robert and Sarah Martin c1916.   What do we know about Maggie? Maggie married Robert Conway on 09 February, 1892 at Ballygilbert Presbyterian Church in Bangor when she was 19 years of age. Robert was a driver of a post car, Maggie had no occupation. Both were of Conlig and the witnesses were Samuel Gamble and Anna Bella Clark. The other key information was that Maggie was the illegitimate daughter of Thomas Spence, a labourer!  Marriage Certificate - Robert Conway and Maggie Moore - 1892   When Maggie and Robert's daughter, Margaret Jane was born later that year, Maggie's maiden name was given a...
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My Nan - Esther Rose Lillian Rake

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I have many wonderful memories of my nan, Esther and remember finding this painting in her garage when I was young. The portrait was part of a prize she had won for a school writing competition.  She was born 105 years ago today. My parents were living at the back of Esther's house when I was born and lived there until I was about 18 months old when Mum and Dad moved into their own home at Smithfield. My sister and I spent many school holiday's at Nan's along with our cousins. I remember going with Nan to Paddy's Markets, fabric shops, and Vinnies. We also spent our summer holidays with Nan and Pop at Bateau Bay.
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"I Am Called Helen Now" - Helen Forrest McDougall

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I called both my grandmother's, Nan or Nanna.  My maternal grandmother was born Helen, but was known by everyone as Nell or Nelly. So I was amused to read in a letter she wrote aged 14 to her cousin Martha, in America, that "I am called Helen now, but I will still call you Bunty".  Unfortunately for Helen, Nelly had stuck, as I don't think I ever heard anyone call her Helen!  This blog is written in memory of my nan, Helen, who was born 106 years ago.
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