TIPS FROM THE TEACHERS
As pupils head back to school and students start a new term at university, it’s time to think about how we can all learn more. Just by reading this magazine you will increase your knowledge and improve your research skills, but courses and tutorials can open new avenues. They are also an excellent way to meet new people and share ideas. Whether you want to dip your toe in with one-off lessons or get a formal qualification, there are lots of options (see page 23).
And there’s no need to worry about transport or social distancing, because these educational institutions were providing distance learning long before Covid-19: the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) first launched its popular Correspondence Course in 1961!
Take inspiration from the following tips from the main education providers in genealogy: the IHGS, Pharos Tutors, the Society of Genealogists (SOG) and the University of Strathclyde.
Chancery records can be a treasure trove
Wouldn’t you love to find a document that starts: “My great grandfather…”, and is followed by the details giving you a clear five-generation pedigree – especially helpful if they are all called ‘John’ or ‘William’? This is why the records of the Chancery Court are a ‘go-to’ source for family history.
If you want to know about your ancestor’s character – how they lived, who said what to whom, and whether your person was a victim or a villain – then Chancery records can often answer all of these questions, and really bring your family to life.
What’s more, people from all backgrounds can be found in these records: men, women, children, wealthy landowners, yeomen, tradesmen, servants, agricultural labourers and everyone else.
SUSAN MOORE teaches ‘Deeds
