FAQ’s

 

How Far Back can you go?

Using 19th, 20th and 21st century sources, it is possible to trace most families back to the early 1800’s - there are of course exceptions to this. Before this, some parish records exist as far back as the early 1538 when parish records began in England and Wales but realistically the furthest your research from parish records is likely to take you in the early 1700’s. I would normally recommend researching back to the early 1800’s first, then the cost and feasibility of tracing back further through parish registers can be better assessed. Parish registers are most often held at local County Records Offices, I can undertake this research for the Staffordshire area and for area’s outside of Staffordshire for a small addition cost (please ask for details).

 

What Will I Find Out?

Whatever package you choose, I'll aim to discover when and where your ancestors were born, who they married, what their occupations were, where they lived and any children they may of had. It is not usually necessary to obtain death certificates for the purpose of proving one's ancestry, however if you would like details of deaths I can search for these, please note that this extra research will be charged at £10.00 per hour and will add to the overall cost.

 

What if you can't find my Ancestors?

The preliminary research that I undertake should provide enough information to begin your project. However if my research hits a brick wall, e.g. an illegitimate child, you will be informed and the research for that line may cease.

 

How long does this take?

A full family tree can usually take around 8-12 weeks, smaller projects less, please note this is a rough guide, every family history is different. You'll be kept regularly informed about the progress of your research. If you require some of your research quickly, maybe for a present, don't let these timescale's put you off, contact me to discuss further.

 

What are your Sources?

   * General Register Office (GRO) civil records of Births, Marriages and Deaths for England and Wales from the 3rd quarter of 1837 to 1983

   • 1841, 1851, 1861, 1871, 1881, 1891 and 1901 Census Returns for England and Wales

• 1790, 1800, 1810, 1820, 1830, 1840, 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, 1900, 1910, 1920 and 1930 US Federal Census Returns

   • The International Genealogical Index (IGI)

   • Anglican Parish records for England and Wales - Baptisms,marriages and burials

   • Other sources on request

 

I regularly visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Archives and Stafford Record Office

 

How do I order?

Please place your order, or make a no obligation enquiry by contacting me using one of the methods on the Contact Us page.

 

How do I pay?

Payments can be made either by cash, personal cheque or by credit / debit card securely through PayPal (I will send you an invoice via e-mail).