Click little grey button to see full details

Comments

1. hi louise

   paula again ive tried contacting you but i must be doing something wrong

   you said you might be able to help, if so, please do, i would be much appreciated

   please contact me at my email address martin@hamlet9551.fsnet.co.uk

   once again thankyou paula xx

   (Posted on 2009-11-16 20:28:00 by paula hamlet)

2. Hi There

   I have been on your website before and discovered some of my Romany ancestry.

   Just to let you know, my mum, who has written a book about her life as a Romany growing up in Somerset around the 2nd world war, has entered a TV competition called The People's Author. She has won her heat and is one of only four finalists. The Grand Final is on Monday 23rd November (next Monday) at 3pm on ITV 1. The Winner will have their book published in April next year. She mentions several gypsy family names in her book such as BAILEY, SMITH, LOVERIDGE AND BOSWELL

   and you can read an extract from it here: Google: Peoples Author Rosemary Penfold

   Her name is Rosemary Penfold and the book is called "A Field Full of Butterflies"

   The TV show is the Alan Titchmarsh show and she will be appearing on the Live show on Monday.

   If you like what she has submitted, feel free to vote on the live show on Monday. She is up against 3 other people who have written their life stories. The fourth finalist will be chosen by the judges on today's show at 3pm ITV 1. There aren't many (if any) books about that have actually been written by a true Romany so this might be one of only a few giving a real insight into gypsy life and redressing the bad press real Romanies get.

   Hope you found this informative

   Sarah C

   (Posted on 2009-11-16 12:40:00 by Sarah Churchill)

3. For anyone heavily involved in family tree work, I have found a family of unnamed gypsies in Quedgley, Gloucs in 1881. Mother and father and children, ages given but no birth places. Tap gypsy into the census search engine for 1881 where you'd normally enter the first and last names.

   Me personally, Im still interested in the Roberts, Elliott, Bexcell/Bexsell and Egerton families.

   (Posted on 2009-11-10 22:19:00 by Rebekah)

4. Hello out there!

   My brother Carl Leroy Scamp just happened to stumble across this site. This is so exciting! My father, Norman Leroy Scamp (still living), always told us that our ancestors were pirates. Now, we found out that they were gypsies! I, Mary Ann Scamp, have that long English face. We seem to have had bad luck all our lives and wondered if another Scamp out there has experienced that as well, and was it a curse or something our ancestors had done to cause the many generations of "bad luck"? Any other "Scamps" out there? Thanks, Mary Ann Scamp (Wallace) and Carl Scamp

   (Posted on 2009-10-27 15:50:00 by Carl and Mary Ann Scamp)

5. hi just found this site so if I go wrong very sorry, I'm trying to trace any members of the boyd family, who travelled in cumberland westmorland and ayshire, william boyd born 1805 is my earliest relative but know very little else, family always gathered every at the appleby horse fair thanks alot p.s what a cackin site jill

   (Posted on 2009-10-15 09:40:00 by gillian forster)

6. Just wanted to say what a fabulous site, big thanks to everyone who has contributed photographs and information.

   I have only just discovered that my great grand parents were Lucy Proudley and Emmanuel Golby..proven by various certificates

   so this site has enabled me to at least fill in some other gaps in my Ancestry.

   If anyone on here has links to the above family please do contact me......

   thank you once again to everyone.

   dottie laker

   (Posted on 2009-10-14 13:18:00 by dorothy laker)

7. Hello, Im trying to find any information on Pidgley's from the Thornhill area of Southampton with connection's to the surname Castle,also the Lamb's from West Moors in Dorset who have connection's to the surname Johnson,one of which is Nancy Johnson. My Aunt May Castle nee Johnson her Grandmother was a Cis Pidgley. Thank You

   (Posted on 2009-10-11 09:13:00 by Andy Johnson)

8. could the Paula who sent the below message plz contact me i may be able to help a little louise1973h@aol.com

   
   

   paula hamlet 2009.9.20 21:40

   im just getting started and im trying to locate the holland family from i think tauton/timberscoome area

   my grandad was fred holland he had a sister trinet & rebecca & a brother john

   his father was john holland married to rebecca nee roberts

   &his father was thomas holland married to britania nee hughs

   i hope if anyone knows please contact

   kinds regards paula

   look forward to hearing from you Louise

   (Posted on 2009-10-07 11:22:00 by louise holland)

9. im just getting started and im trying to locate the holland family from i think tauton/timberscoome area

   my grandad was fred holland he had a sister trinet & rebecca & a brother john

   his father was john holland married to rebecca nee roberts

   &his father was thomas holland married to britania nee hughs

   i hope if anyone knows please contact

   kinds regards paula

   (Posted on 2009-09-20 20:40:00 by paula hamlet)

10. Thank you Rhian for your kind comments and glad you like my site the pictures are fabulous and its thanks to all the lovely people who have been kind enough to send them in for others to enjoy so all credit due to the owners of the pics:)

    (Posted on 2009-09-10 21:24:00 by Siteowner)

11. I came across your site as I have one on Webeden. Your photos are incredible, especially the black and white ones! I have gypsy blood i think but from Poland perhaps. Thank you for lovely site.

    (Posted on 2009-09-09 18:09:00 by rhian clarkson)

12. also im looking for history of the dibbens any info if anyone can help i know we settled in poole but i dont know were we come from before i know shaftsbury wiltshire way any help would be appriciated im also known as the gypsy medium im a international medium i travel all over demonstrateing have a look at my website www.danclarkeforeverlife.com

    (Posted on 2009-08-29 13:29:00 by dan clarke)

13. my name is dan clarke i am a dibben from parkstone my great grandfather is the man mentioned being ran over he was billy dibben we were the first travlers in parkstone if i can help contacted me on 07929481396

    (Posted on 2009-08-27 21:46:00 by dan clarke)

14. to Ian Parrin,

    i saw your article ref martha stacey.

    my gran was a stacey father nathaniel stacey married to amelia rawlings living in a caravan hogmoor lane 1911 before that a tent in alton

    in 1901 cencus i'm

    also related to kezia bull through her marrage to william rawlings .

    i would like to hear from you and see what information we could swop.

    please contact me via my e-mail address

    sonia.

    
    
    

    (Posted on 2009-08-26 18:18:00 by sonia falcon)

15. Hi,

    I am trying to trace any relatives I have and dont know where to go next as my father fell out with his dad for years and only resumed contact just before my grandfather died, My fathers family where George and winnie Bowers and came from Luggershall, They where on the road for almost all their year and travelled all across the country following the planting to harvesting trail. From November till february they camped on a small field owned by my great grandfather alfred edwin bowers who gave his name to my dad,When my nan was given a house by the council my grandfather found it impossible to settle and returned to the open road leaving my nan and seven kids behind, He then re married ( maybe ) and fathered a further 7 kids and 5 survived that I know of, I would love to hear from any of them as I am the only one of my family who was born to be a gypsy through and through, I have a constant need to be on the move and love all things animal , I have been so lucky to inherit ny grandads china collection and other special pieces he collected over his travels and before he died he spent many hours filling me in on his life and tales of times that will never come again (sadly)

    Please can you put this on your web site and hopefully someone will find it and get in touch, I am living in Dorset now,

    (Posted on 2009-08-22 19:37:00 by Jackie Jackson (nee BOWERS) 1957)

16. DIBBENS.

    Interesting about the Dibbens familys and links to gypsy ancestry.I was friends with many Dibbens from Kinson nr Bournemouth in the 1970s.There were many in newtown Poole when I was a child.Old man Dibben got tragically ran over by a car whilst crossing the ringwood road from his regular visit to the snake pub which became the albion n was just recently bulldozed.Noticed the ladys middle name is Gillingham who were also of gypsy stock.All the best in your search,Ray Wills

    (Posted on 2009-08-21 06:20:00 by ray wills)

17. Hi a very interesting, well presented site. I am enquiring if you have heard of the dibben surname connected to gypsies in dorset.

    Iam told that their were, I have found my releatives in fontmell magna so I dont know if they came from there but they settled in Poole,

    Parkstone area.thanks for a interesting site hope you may help. diane.

    (Posted on 2009-08-17 11:04:00 by diane gillingham (dibben))

18. Looking for any information on the last gypsy queen who had a traditional burial of the burning of the caravan on bow common in London

    approx 1881 - 1893 I think she was a member of theLovel family

    (Posted on 2009-08-02 19:49:00 by J Johnson)

19. Bennie Pral.

    ava buti tugnus amari Romani kova's jal avree ando far , man ker so buti yavvar Rom sar kerin tadivvus ta miro Gillia si yeck Chomny Man kers Ki deve O tikni kova pe savvo Romani folie.

    In English = Yes much sadness our Romany things go away in time , I do what manty other Rom are doing to day and my songs is one thing I do to give a little thing for all Romani folkie.

    Pral ,Man tu Dik miro Romanes ta jin so Man rokka KI TUTE.

    Bokt ta jasa O Duval Pral ki tu ta familia ando Sweden.

    Bob Lovell Kaumlo.

    Ando Nevo Zeatem.

    
    

    (Posted on 2009-08-01 07:05:00 by bob Lovell)

20. Lattjo tejsa! (Good morning in scando romani)

    I'm a romanochal from Sweden born in 1952.

    Sadly we are loosing our culture here. Intergration and assimilation. It makes me so sad. I'm doing my best for this matter, working as a romanywriter, documenting what is left of us.

    I've been reading all about the Lovell family here on this patrin.

    There is a comment that Bob sings in Kiwi-Romani. I'd like to know more about this dialect of romani and were it got its name?

    (Hope you can understand my bad english)

    Ja ninna Devel miro kamleske manusj! (Walk with God my beloved people. Scandoromani)

    Bennie

    bennie.akerfeldt@comhem.se

    www.bennieakerfeldt.se

    (Posted on 2009-07-27 07:34:00 by Bennie Åkerfeldt)

21. DEAR SIR , PLEASE COULD YOU TELL ME HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH THE FAMOUS MEDIUM GYPSYLEE PLEASE CONTACT ME AT fitzroysewell@hotmail.co.uk

    (Posted on 2009-07-26 22:36:00 by owen1970)

22. Thank's Romanygenes!

    I realy appreciate this fantastic site.

    Kettanes - soraola.

    Ersnos pral

    Bennie

    (Posted on 2009-07-25 07:26:00 by Bennie Åkerfeldt)

23. Hi ray

    From your message left, i beleive our families are connected, if you wish to contact me email me at iredworth@yahoo.co.uk

    (Posted on 2009-07-24 15:54:00 by iredworth)

24. Lattjo Dives sass romanoa!

    Im looking for the lyrics to Bob Lovells song: Kalo Chiricklo.

    Please help mee an send me a mail: bennie.akerfeldt@comhem.se

    Bennie

    (Posted on 2009-07-22 12:08:00 by Bennie Åkerfeldt)

25. Hello im hoping someone might be able to offer me a bit of advice im traceing my family tree on my Fathers side who were Jones and Saunders all from South Wales (Monmouthshire/Breconshire) there is rumour of there being Romanys on this side of our Family could anyone advise how the best way of finding this out would be?Much appreciated Duncan

    (Posted on 2009-07-21 09:53:00 by Duncan McDonald)

26. Hi,

    My wife and I are researching her family history and whilst we have assembled some basic info from the census and various family history sites

    I was wondering if anyone might have some additional material relating to Frankum, West, Chittle, Stacey, Bull names from Pamber / Kingsclere area. My wife is the g.grandaughter of an Arthur Frankum (b1853) who married Jane (Chittle) West, gg grandaughter of George Frankum (b1822) who married Martha Stacey, ggg grandaughter of George Frankum (b1787 Devizes) who married Kezia Bull.

    Regards, Ian Perrin

    (Posted on 2009-07-17 14:35:00 by Ian Perrin)

27. my great great granny, is granny cooper, my grandad is henry turner and nanna ellen turner of the new forest romanys its great reading up on my history thank u anna ..

    (Posted on 2009-07-13 22:30:00 by anna marie mayne nee turner)

28. Mary Willows was transported to New South Wales, Australia in 1804. On a transportation record I accessed via Ancestry.com is a note under 'where convicted' of Leicester Boro'off (or something like this. What does that mean? What is Boro'off? Thanks for any help, June

    (Posted on 2009-07-04 01:33:00 by june Cashman)

29. If you have anything on the history of the name Da'nise Elderia please e-mail spivagirl@live.com. Thanks

    (Posted on 2009-07-01 09:10:00 by Da'nise Elderia)

30. Hello,

    I am looking up the history of my name its very rare here in Idaho U.S.A. and I hope someone might send me some links on the history of the word/name Elderia and if you were to know anything about the name Da'nise I would truly be thankfull.

    (Posted on 2009-07-01 09:06:00 by Da'nise Elderia)

31. Im trying to trace my mother.

    Marjorie barbara lumb married joe smith in the early 70s in weobley herefordshire. They moved about abit but came to live with some relations of joes in the early 80s. (Leominster area). They had 2 children to my knowledge. Sonia was born in north wales in the middle of the 70s and richard was born in the early 80s.

    All i know about joe is that he was in care for some of his life.

    Any info on the above would be most grateful

    (Posted on 2009-06-23 15:07:00 by julie jones)

32. Hi, I am looking for some photos of Levi Boswell and his family at Tugmutton. Does anyone have any? I've found a few of them in Farnborough Village but it's Tugmutton that I'm really interested in. Thanks.

    (Posted on 2009-06-21 20:44:00 by Nikki)

33. Hello Romany Rakli, My name is Elizabeth Isaacs-(Lizzie) Henry Penfold was my grt grt grand father Ned Penfolds brother and his wife Ocean was my grt grt grand mother Sophia Orchards sister. Both the Hughes and Penfolds are big West country Romany families with many descendants. The parents of Henry were John Penfold and Harriet James and Oceans parents were Robert Hughes and Sarah Davis. Hope this is some help to you.

    (Posted on 2009-05-30 15:11:00 by elizabeth6)

34. they are my husbands gt gt grandperants.i have a lot about them and ascendind and descending family if you like to contact me cathayb@talktalk.net i am also in touch with alot of the living family now.regards cathay

    (Posted on 2009-05-29 20:38:00 by cathayb)

35. Hello, my mum has a old photo, 1 of many, that was left to her by her dad 21 years ago. She did not know the man and woman pictured but i have just found it on here and saw that there names are Henry and Ocean Penfold... I think they were from honiton in devon. Id like to get in contact with the person that put this pic on here or any1 that has any info on the penfolds (ancestors) Im thinking that they could be my grandfathers grandparents.. Do any1 recognise these names or the photo?? (PHOTO GALLERY 10) Id like to get some info on them if i could and see how they are related to me.

    Many Thanks,

    Maryellen

    (Posted on 2009-05-25 22:04:00 by romanyraklie)

36. HI my name is sarah and my gratgrandmother was sarah ann LEE and she had a sister by the name of MARY ANN thay were from belivedere kent

    (Posted on 2009-05-25 10:45:00 by sarahjayne)

37. HI my nan was TILLY FRIEND neeLEE i am loking for her famliy her father was john LEE and her mother was sarah ann LEE neeCOATS . she was known as big tilly and there was little tilly . and thay came from BELIVDERE KENT . and my grandad was bill friend . be nice to hear from someone ?

    (Posted on 2009-05-25 10:24:00 by sarahjayne)

38. hello

    i am rosie smith i have just had my book (Old ways New days) published its a histroy of engilsh gypsyies with a lot of well known gypsies in as well as a lot of gypsy names such as, lee, smith, cooper, jones, ayres, renalds,deval, ripley, boswell, and many more, it has over a 100 old gypsy photos in , and lots of old stories aswell as a look in to our culture, i was wondering if you would put a bit on you site about it , i am not sure if this is the right place to ask but i couldnt see a email address please get back to me one way or the other at .. gypsypoems@live.co.uk thank you rosie smith

    http://www.francisboutle.co... this is a link to the book

    (Posted on 2009-05-23 15:16:00 by gypsyrosie)

39. HI

    TO TORI WEST IM LOOKING FOR THOMAS BOSWELL BORN ABOUT 1832 WITH ESTHER HODGKINS HE HAD BROTHER WILLIAM BOSWELL

    15 YEARS YOUNGER THERE MUST HAVE BEEN OTHERS IN BETWEEN my email is vivi29_336@hotmail.com

    (Posted on 2009-05-20 19:18:00 by vivi29)

40. I have added my website and anyone who wants to get in touch with news of gran or whatever my email is

    roadangel.shaunessy421@yahoo.com. Ive put a link to my website as well which is still under construction but have some thingson there

    (Posted on 2009-05-15 20:45:00 by MORGAN SHAUNESSY)

41. Devon Traveller Education service has organised a family Heritage day for Romany history month. On Saturday 13th June at the watermark centre in Ivybridge from 10am -4pm, Anyone with Romany connections to Devon wishing to trace family can come along where there will be members of The Devon Records office on hand to help give information.Bring along old photos, memories and stories to share and celebrate our wonderful culture. If anyone wants any more information contact Devon traveller education.

    (Posted on 2009-05-13 17:19:00 by elizabeth6)

42. Hi all. My name is Morgan Shaunessy and i am a traveller. MY nan was a traveller by thename of Lilian Rosena Parker and travelled in Devon. I dont know any more of my history than that. I have always travelled alone because i cannot spout years of family history I have feared rejection by other travellers. I would love to hear from anyone who wants to chat or accept me as a member of the travelling nation. Anyone who knows anything of gran ? please get in touch. regards Miss Morgan Shaunessy

    (Posted on 2009-05-11 18:02:00 by MORGAN SHAUNESSY)

43. Hi Viva29 do you have any othere names. parants. siblings .children. as theres a lot of Boswell's

    (Posted on 2009-05-10 14:40:00 by toriwest)

44. Hi ToriWest

    I have sent you an e-mail regarding Boswells.

    Linda Samalam

    (Posted on 2009-05-10 13:30:00 by Linda salama)

45. HI CAN ANYONE HELP LOOKING FOR THOMAS BOSWELL BORN AROUND 1832 WTH ESTHER HODGKINS MATILDA FIRST BORN 1826

    EMAIL VIVI29_336@HOTMAIL.COM

    (Posted on 2009-05-09 13:47:00 by vivi29)

46. I am looking for any of the Page family from Kent who ended in Yorkshire, Thank you

    (Posted on 2009-05-07 13:36:00 by Chris Page)

47. To Linda Salama

    Was reading about your link to Boswell Family. I beleive Nelson Boswell was second or third cousin ( I think ) to my dad.

    would love to hear from you about your connection to Boswell's

    (Posted on 2009-05-06 21:59:00 by toriwest)

48. Our Nan was 89 and very fit and healthy, we wasn't ready for her to leave us, but we will forever have our memories. She had hard and interesting life, which started in Edmunton, and went round kent, she was one of 7 children and she herself went on marry Belcher Lee and to have 6 children, she was a true Romany and we are proud to be able to call her Nan. Love her Kushti Dickin Granddaughters Rose and Joanne.

    No expense spared, Nannie loved a funeral as much as a wedding, she loved being the centre of attention, she is having a True Romany send off with pride. Which is at All Saints Church, Nuxley Road, Belvedere on 15th May 2009 at 10.30am, then onto the buriel at Brook Street Cemetery and then after all her very large family and friends are celebrating her life at The Masonic Hall, West Hill, Dartford.

    On behalf of Rayney we would like to say thank you to Romany Genes, it is nice to see photos, memories and to she that the heritage of the old Romanies lives on.

    (Posted on 2009-05-03 10:32:00 by Rayney Lee nee Gumble 2nd Dec 1919 - 27th Apr 2009)

49. Murro Pharl Murro Phen Sar San ? This is a great site first class in every way keep up the good work , to all DEVLESA AND BAXTELO . ROBERT

    (Posted on 2009-05-01 08:38:00 by ROBERT GORDON ( BELFAST ))

50. hi,

    i found my g- granparents in the 1911 cencus living in a caravan in hogmoor lane bordon hampshire

    they were nathaniel stacey and amelia nee rawlings/rawlins states they were hawkers.

    also living along side them were Daniel and emma eyres, a John and Alice smith,

    Rawben and Ella rawlins and william and mary chandler all stated as hawkers and living in Tent.

    it says john smith born kent.

    i know the nathaniel and amelia were living in a tent in the 1901 census in Alton

    anyone with information on these family's i would love to hear from

    sonia

    sfalcon@hotmail.co.uk

    (Posted on 2009-04-29 15:38:00 by sonia falcon)

51. Kenilworth horse fair (travellers fair) this Sunday in Kenilworth. Free entry, take a picnic and a rug, nice day out for the family.

    (Posted on 2009-04-22 18:56:00 by mercy)

52. hi betty ive left a couple of messages i hope to hear from you soon pete xxx

    (Posted on 2009-04-07 06:45:00 by elizabeth golding)

53. Just wanted to say what a fantastic site this is! I am a descendant of the Lee/Smith family. My g.grandparents were Thomas Lee and Lenda Smith. I am extremely proud of my roots, and it is so fantastic that there are a lot of people out there who feel the same way.

    (Posted on 2009-04-06 21:09:00 by karen king)

54. My Ggrandma said she was from Gyspy stock... some Lovell's in Beds... not sure if we are connected? Regards, Adele from Australia. My GGGGgrandad was Robert Lovell, he was sent out here in the late 1820's

    (Posted on 2009-04-02 06:18:00 by Adele Burns)

55. Too Peter Cooper,

    Your dads cousin Betty here, elizabethgold30@hotmail.com . Sue (siteowner) put on photos of my mum and grandad tom and family for me. Get in touch if you want some xx

    (Posted on 2009-04-01 11:59:00 by elizabeth golding)

56. Help please My gt gt grandmother was Ann Riles .Know very little about her only that she gave birthplace as newent gloucs. She " married out " about 1893 to Miles Lewis from Ebbw Vale South Wales . Riles family very hard to find .Any info or advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.Linda Holmes.

    (Posted on 2009-03-25 16:48:00 by linda holmes)

57. I have just discovered that my great great great grandfather was Israel Worton. Does anybody have any connections or know anything about this family.

    (Posted on 2009-03-23 14:05:00 by Viv Hosker)

58. hi im you cousin tom was my great granddad my granddad was sam tom son i am the son of sam sam oldes son sam (ted) please email me there are photos here ive never seen thankyou kushsti bok pete xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

    (Posted on 2009-03-23 07:31:00 by peter james samuel stanley cooper)

59. Thanks Amelia for the Janes/Jeans Info will see if i can find any thing on the family and the Holland conection.

    (Posted on 2009-03-15 23:27:00 by siteowner)

60. We joined Romany Road partly because we enjoy being part of the community, partly to help try and be reunited with our kin. Mary Horner very helpfully emailed us to suggest Sue Day may be able to help. Actually we are related to some of the East Anglian Days and Turners. We wonder whether Sue Day has any information that could help us. We know we are related to the Lees of Canning Town but have a little problem finding the connection with the Smiths or Hagleys. We cannot find much documentary evidence to help. We thought that with help getting rid of the little problems, indeed with stopping all the problems we might get enough information for someone to realise who our living realtives are and give our contact details to them. It would be good to be reunited and hopefully they will feel the same way.

    Thank you.

    UPDATED INFORMATION.

    My name is Mandi Hagley Allison. Mye father was Stan Hagley and his father Stan Hagley, a gypsy and hawker from the East End of London.His mother was Violet Doyle, nee Smith, a Gypsy. They travelled around Kent hop picking. They had an aitchin tan in Dover and Maidstone. My dad was traumatically separated from his parents, brothers and sisters by the system in 1935. He was sent, alone, with no family, to Barnado's in Stephney Causeway. He was fostered out in Fordham,Cambridgeshire.

    On the day before his 13th birthday he was abruptly removed from his foster parents by Dr Barnadoes and sent to Russell Coates naval school, Dorset before being heavily persuaded by the training school to join the Merchant Navy as a deck boy. I and my mother have found in text books of my fathers from that time a message written by my dad. He wrote the truth, that he was a genuine gypsy shaman,chovihauni, and wanted to be employed as a healer, not a sailor. He told me that many times.

    Although technically my dad was separated from his family and culture in reality he visted lilian Doyle, his sister, and often went travelling with her and her family in the kent area. He also reunited with his half brother Edward Law and his sister Rose Hagley and Emily Doyle.Rose Hagley had been brought up by a Mrs Edwards, possibly related, in Maidstone.Emily and Lily Doyle sent to Aldersbrook Homes, Wanstead where they grew up. Edward stayed with his mother

    His mother's parents were Jack and Emily Smith born 1876 and 1883 of Skellington Road, East Ham, london. His maternal Uncles were John Smith born1903,and William Smith born 1918. Maternal aunts Amy Smith born 1899, Lily Thompson, Gladys Smith, Ivy Smith born 1920.

    He was loyal to his Romany culture and brought me up in the same traditions. I am proud to be a Romany. I believe Gypsys have been persecuted because the ethnic group so intelligent and morally good that a jealous minority used Gypsies as scapegoats for their own mistakes. My dad often spoke of taking me on the road and I, my father and mother were going to do just that when he was tragically killed in a terrible accident at sea.

    I am very proud of my Romany culture and of my dad. I admired him so much. I was only 9 when he died . I had so much to learn about him. However neither I or my mother know the whereabouts of my fathers relatives or descendents. I know I cannot bring my dadus back but I hope by learning more about his story and be reunited with relatives all of us will benefit with increased health and happiness .I and my mother have been trying to be reunited with dads relatives since he died. Life, health and happiness are not a game to us. My mother never remarried after my dad, her loyal husband, died. My dad called my mum Ruthie. Barnados was a problem to us as they would not release details of his time there. Finally we were sent information about my father and our relatives.Years ago I spoke to Tom Lee ( secretary of the Romany Guild) who said our family was related to him and the Lees of Canning Town. He was going to tell me more when unfortunately he passed on.

    We hope and pray the way can be cleared for relatives to remember our story. If anyone has contact details of any of our genuine gypsy relatives( Hagley,Allison,Storey,Pearson,Cole/Cull settled or not, who want to be reunited please inform

    my loving husband, Roger Hagley Allison via HagleyAllison@hotmail.co.uk.

    Or phone him on 07913658295

    Kushti Bok and healing prayers to all good souls.

    From our Gypsy Chovihauni family.

    Mandi and Rogey HagleyAllison

    Ruth Hagley

    Holly Pearson and Simon Cull

    (Posted on 2009-03-13 10:22:00 by Mandi and Roger)

61. hello i came across this on your website

    1901*Llandeilo Talybont St Teilo *Town: Mynydd

    Not in Houses All Travelling Hawkers/Gypsies. In tents and vans.

      William Janes 38 (think James?)

    Sarah Janes 38

    Caroline Janes 12

    Cornelius Janes 4

    Henry Janes 9

    James Janes 2

    John Janes 6

    Rachel Janes 1

    Robert Janes1 month

    Sarah Janes 3

    Sophia Janes 14

    William Janes16

    you have in brackets think james well they were janes not james, the 9 yr old henry was my fathers father, there was rumoured to have been 28 children in all 7 sets of twins though only one set survived, the mother sarah was originally a holland from devon ive a photograph of her she was a big stern looking piece, apparently she broke the jaw of the best man in ireland when he challenged her drunken husband,, the father william janes was born jeanes he is in the records as born in carmarthen but his parents were french canadian travellers, he might have been born in canada, william and sarah are buried together in cockett cemetery in swansea, under the name jeanes, henry went on to marry sarah davies from swansea her sister was elizabeth she became mother in law to old peter jolly of jollys circus, the 2 year old james married amelia probert, im still trying to find out more of my family particularly sarah hollands background if you have found anything else i would love to hear it

    (Posted on 2009-03-10 23:50:00 by amelia janes)

62. Hi,

    I am looking for info on my Smith family from Cambridge and my Loveridge family from Bedford.

    My gggrandfather Thomas Loveridge was born in Lavendon Bedfordshire in abt 1823, and my gggrandmother Susan Loveridge was born in North Crawley Bedfordshire abt 1825, ( i'm not sure of her maiden name, although it may well have been Smith ).

    From what i have found out so far, they had at least six children:

    Selina Loveridge born abt 1856.

    Emmanuel Loveridge born abt 1858.

    Riley Loveridge born abt 1860.

    Susan Loveridge born abt 1862. ( my ggrandmother )

    Thomas Loveridge born abt 1869.

    Tryphena Loveridge born abt 1870.

    On the 1871 census it has them all living in Clapham Bedfordshire under the name Lovelidge!!

    My gggrandfather Joseph Smith was born in Lincolnshire abt 1827 and my gggrandmother Sarah Smith was born in Buckinghamshire abt 1825, on the 1861 census it has them with their children Alfred Smith, Angelus Smith, Joseph Smith, Aaron Smith ( my ggrandfather ) and Chrisana Smith, living in tents in Farthing Drove, Wilburton, Cambridgeshire.

    My ggrandparents Aaron Smith and Susan Loveridge were married in Markyate, Hertfordshire on the 27th March 1894, and on the 1901 census it has them with some of their children living at 118 North Cottages, Markyate, Hertfordshire. their childrens names were as follows:

    Thomas Smith, Riley Smith, Sophia Smith, Minnie Loveridge Smith, Alfred Smith, Emily Smith, James Smith, Albert Smith, and Humphrey Smith.

    Miranda ' Minnie' Loveridge Smith was my Grandmother, James Smith was known as 'Little Jim', Humphrey was known as 'Brummy Smith', Emily Smith was known as 'Emmy Smith', and the only thing i know about Riley Smith was that he lived over at Royston and i think his wifes name was Cinderella, also somewhere along the line he lost both of his legs, i'm not sure if he lost them in the great war but he did have artificial tin ones.

    I hope these details jog someones memory, the trouble is you can go on and on writing things and not know where to stop, anyway, i hope i get a reply.

    All The Best.

    Philip.

    (Posted on 2009-03-08 11:41:00 by Phil Mead)

63. TO THE SITE OWNER.

    I would like to say a big thank you for all the work that you have put into this site and the valueable information that you provide for us all. Also in creating this platform which allows us to communicate with other like minded souls.

    Hello all, my name is Ray.

    I am a great grandson of JOSEPH REDWORTH c.1855 and KATE BOSWELL c.1853. Kate being a sister of Levi Boswell who married Urania Lee. She was also the daughter of Zachariah Boswell and Justinier Dighton. I have been building my family tree and this line I have, going back to Shadrack Boswell. I have been very lucky in gathering information from many helpful sources, relating to the BOSWELL and DIGHTON connections in my family. HOWEVER, I am having great difficulty in tracking down my REDWORTH side of the family. Could anyone tell me if the Redworth's WERE in fact Romani, or just married into a Romani family.

    My mother Sarah Redworth, was born in 1900, in a wagon on a gipsy site, (possibly Caravan Manorway Plumstead) although she said, that she was born at Abbeywood. My Grand Father, William Redworth, was a farm labourer/market gardener. Gained from Census Records he lived his early years in the Lewisham and Foots Cray areas. In later life he rented land at Welling in Kent and sold his produce at Covent Garden,which included Holly wreath making at Christmas times, or in the case of flowers, from door to door by the women folk in the family.

    My mother told me about her Grand Father, Joseph Redworth, who she often referred to as "The old Welshman" and that we descended from Welsh Romani Folk. My elder brother said that he remembered the old man when he was young, but could not understand him when he spoke. Mother taught me many of the Welsh Romani words and phraises that were used in her early upbringing. I know that many of the Boswell families settled in Wales whilst some families travelled various routes to and from other parts of England.

    If there are any REDWORTH'S out there who can give me any information relating to background of their families or wether they think they are connected to my line I will be pleased to hear from you.

    Ray

    (Posted on 2009-03-08 12:50:00 by Pooka the Gib ?)

64. Alan Johnson,

    Re the pidgleys in hedge end Nr Southampton.... I made inquiries from my Sister about the Familey but she could not helpmas the Pidgleys left the village and she did not knw where they went,I had gone into the Army and from there started nurse Training and did not live in the village again where are you living now are you Hampshire I am in the New Forest but i spent 20 yrs Nrsing in Australia I have now been back in England for 20 yrs unfortunatley Many of the old Gipsys of my childhood have been forgotten I just remember the names but not the peoplle

    Non of my familey speak Romany just the odd few word,s remain in my generation but

    (Posted on 2009-03-03 21:16:00 by George Page S.R.N. R.N.M.S. S.E.A.N.)

65. hi i was wondering if anybody can help me my mam was a townsend befor she marrid me dad her name is diane she has sisters called shelia, marion, maggie, alision, sinver and a couple of brothers we are in northampton if any body related or no use contact us thanks

    (Posted on 2009-03-02 21:28:00 by gipogal)

66. Shirley Loveridge Smith , Thanks for your lovely omments and glad you like the site email me and maybe I can help with family tree .

    (Posted on 2009-03-01 22:57:00 by siteowner)
67. 
    

    There is a photo on here of my grandad jack and his dad ( great-grandad billy) on james smith family, id like to save this to my pictures but its not allowing me to do so............any suggestions how i can retrieve some of the pictures. also my grannie Hetty Smith ( maidan name Hetty Watton) has also got a photo on here. So lovely looking at this site and looking at all the old gypsie folk. I am still a young girl (26) but know that Romany ways are not as popular as they used to be, the gypsie ways are dying out so its important to have these sites to keep it alive. I have been on census united and tried to build a family tree. My mother is from a smith and watton family and my father ar from both Loveridges. I know quite alot about my mothers side but not about my dads. His dad was Ernie Loveridge and his mother Dorathy loveridge - known as "Tana". Both were from Bristol and i know theres quite a few Loveridges scatterd in Bristol/London but dont know much about names etc......can anyone help on this? love herritage and im very proud of the family iv come from. On the news/papers. all gypsies are portrayed as "scum" " i think theres good and bad in everyone. I come from a close/loving family and really appreciate this site and all the memories it brings to my elders. i will be showing the grandparents soon, there not too much into this technonlogy haha.................................x

    (Posted on 2009-02-27 21:17:00 by shirley loveridge-smith)

68. HI EVERYONE IF ANYONE CAN HELP WITH MY PREVIOUS MESSAGE ABOUT MY LEE FAMILY OF LONDON I WOULD BE VERY GRATFUL FOR ANY INFO DOES ANYONE NO THE NAMES OF THESE LEES . THANKS FOR YOUR HELP REGARDS JUNA THIS IS MY E.MAIL ADDRESS

    john.bridges70@ntlworld.com.

    (Posted on 2009-02-20 23:29:00 by juna bridges)

69. Rose thankyou for such a lovely message it really cheered me up to think of your grannie looking at my site at her age ,and im so pleased she approves!! best wishes to you both and thanks again.

    (Posted on 2009-02-17 22:42:00 by Siteowner)

70. On behalf of my granie Rayney Lee,who is now 89 years,she would like to say thankyou for all your hard work .Kushti site..Great for all the younger generation to read and learn.My granie is the great-great grandaughter of Urania Lee.Queen of the gypies.She still has her photo by her bed side and tells us every time when we see her about this wonderfull Lady.Granie Rayneys parents were Levi Gumble and Delilah Smith and Levis parents were Ada Boswell and John Gumble and Adas parents were the famous Urania and Levi Boswell.Its lovely to keep the family gypsie history alive.Im going to take Granie Rayney and my family to the grave in Farnborough,next Sunday.My granie and I love looking at the photos.Thankyou very much.Rose Redworth.

    (Posted on 2009-02-15 22:50:00 by roseredworth)

71. Hi Back in April last year a lady called JUDY posted a query about ABRAHAM BARRINGTON BUCKLAND

    could you kindly contact me as I have not got your email address Thank You.

    (Posted on 2009-02-12 11:30:00 by Siteowner)

72. Juna I am sure there will be many that will connect with your Lee's if you leave your email as it does not show up on page as some folks need to use a different browser like IE or Mozilla to be able to view the feeds? Confusing I know LOL ,

    (Posted on 2009-02-12 12:18:00 by Siteowner)

73. I WONDER IF ANYONE CAN HELP ME WITH MY TREE , I WOULD BE VERY GRATFUL MY GRANDMOTHER WAS MARY LEE BORN 1867 EAST LONDON HER FATHER WAS EDWARD LEE BORN I844 HIS FATHER WAS JOSEPH LEE BORN 1797 HE HAD II CHILDREN .

    JOSEPH FATHER WAS SOLOMAN LEE BORN 1765, HIS FATHER WAS DUKE LEE BORN 1734, AND HIS FATHER ELISHA .

    ELISHA HAD 4 CHILDREN OLLIFF,DUKE, ELISHA,AND MARY LEE

    DUKE HAD 3CHILDREN JAMES, JOSEPH, SOLOMAN,

    SOLOMAN HAD CHILDREN JOSEPH BORN 1797,

    JOSEPH HAD THESE CHILDREN, JOHN,B,1819,CAROLINE,B1823,RODA,B1824, RILEY,B,1826, KEZIAH,B.1828 SELINA,B,1831, MATHIAS,B.1833, SAMPSON,B,1835, JAMES,B, 1837, JOSEPH B. 1840, EDWARD, B. 1843.

    SAMPSON HAD 5 CHILDREN THAT I NO ROSINA LEE B.1868, HANNAH KEZIAH LEE B. 1873, SAMPSON LEE BORN, 1866, SUSAN JANE LEE BORN, 1877, AND JANE SOPHIA LEE BORN 1859.

    ELISHA LEE BORN 1737, HAD ZACHARIAH LEE , MOONIE LEE DAVID LEE 1762 MANSFIELD LEE 1765

    KEZIAH LEE BORN 1828 MARRIED GEORGE CRAIG

    HAD 5 CHILDREN

    EDWARD LEE BORN 1844 MARRIED ANN HUARD WHO WAS FROM A HUGEONOT FAMILY FROM LOWER NORMANDY FRANCE THEY HAD

    MARY LEE SHOREDITCH LONDON SHE MARRIED EDWARD CRAIG THIS WAS HER SECOND HUSBAND THE FIRST DIED AND SHE HAD 4 CHILDREN BY HIM . THE SECOND HUSBAND SHE HAD TWIN BOYS BORN I904 TERENCE CRAIG AND EDWARD [TEDDY]

    I WAS BORN IN WEST HAM LONDON AND LIVED AS A CHILD IN BETHNAL GREEN I CAN REMEMBER AS A CHILD MY DAD TALKING TO ME ABOUT HIS GYPSY BACKGROUND AND HOW PROUD HE WAS . I ALSO WENT HOPE PICKING IN KENT AND STAYED ON A FARM I CAN STILL REMEMBER THE SMELL OF THE HOPES AND MY GREEN FINGERS . OH I AM SORRY I CAN GO ON FOREVER. CAN YOU TELL ME IF THERE IS ANY CONNECTION TO ANYONE YOU ARE IN TOUCH WITH AS I WOULD BE VERY HAPPY AS I AM DOING THIS REASERCH TO PASS THIS ON TO MY GRANDCHILDREN . THANK YOU JUNA

    (Posted on 2009-02-08 19:27:00 by juna bridges)

74. Hi Pauline if you would like me to add your pictures just attach them to an email and email me at romanygenes@aol.com many thanks.

    (Posted on 2009-02-07 23:43:00 by siteowner)

75. Hi, Please can you tell me how to add photos, I have a couple of piccys of my Nan & Grandad, Florence & Levi Dighton.

    Many Thanks, Pauline x

    (Posted on 2009-02-07 22:24:00 by Pauline)

76. Hello George I saw your message saying you went to school with some Pidgley's. The Pidgley family im closest to are on my grandmother side. Her father was a Robert Pidgley a cane seat chair maker born New Forest/Mother was a Sarah Pidgley. Children's names Caroline Pidgley(my grandmother) Henry Pidgley and Maria Pidgley and another sister also called Sarah married a Job Cooper. Ive also have connections to Fairground Families such as DAVIES/STANDLEYS/COFFEE'S. Andrew

    (Posted on 2009-01-26 20:20:00 by andrew johnson)

77. Hi Alan JOhnson,

    I went to school with a Pidgley faimley they lived in Hedge end Nr Southampton1940/45 I think they came from the New Forest,

    I never saw the Father I think he was in Winchester more often than at home I am also of Gipsy Stock my Familey Name IS PAGE and my mother Was Griggs I believe Fairground Stock, Cole,S Gillham All fairground Owners,Still going well attend Wickham Fair 1st May every year, Grandmother was BOWERS. And there is a large COOPER Familey in the CADNAM AREA Nr Totton New Forest My EM is napdak2Btinternet.com

    George

    (Posted on 2009-01-23 11:45:00 by napdak)

78. Thanks Val and Mikeglad you like the site and keep coming back I have heard of the Porters !

    (Posted on 2009-01-18 21:38:00 by silvy1)

79. Happy New Year.....Parruka tutu atch misto

    My Ggrandfather was Alfred Charles Gatehouse who settled in the Pier area Dover when the Harbour and Railway was built. There are strong links to Loram, Clubb and Ransley,all very proud Gypsy families ,and my husband is a Porter who also has Gypsy links.

    We were thrilled to find this site...thank you

    Val and Mike

    (Posted on 2009-01-18 13:41:00 by Val Nice)

80. GREAT SITE !

    (Posted on 2009-01-12 19:01:00 by Branko)

81. Hi

    I came across your site whilst researching with my wife her family history. Her family are descended from romany gypsies, Her g g grandfather was Robert Pateman he spent his life travelling between Hammersmith he was there in 1861 and Kent he was there at Cliff in 1845 and at Frindsbury near Strood in 1856 as he had children christened there. He had another son christened in Bromley. In 1871 the whole family wre living in Beckenham Kent, According to that census my wifes g grandfather was born in Kent but no record has been found. Robert died and was buried in Farnborough Kent in 1890. His sons William and James lived on Tugmutton Green Farnborough along with the queen of the gypsies gypsy Lee Urania Boswell. Has any one any knowledge of the Patemans of Farnborough.

    (Posted on 2009-01-12 12:25:00 by graham)

82. Hello again I have had a browse round your web site im really impressed i think it will take awhile to see it all. I clicked on the New Forest Families and found some Pidgley's and Johnson's. While searching through some old photo's ect i came across a Pedlar's Certificate belonging to my grandmother Caroline Pidgley(Hebburn) it was issued 2nd May 1924 in pursuance of The Pedlars Act 1871. It reads I certify that Caroline Hebburn of Selborne in the county of Hampshire aged 33 years is hereby authorised to act as a pedlar for a year from the date of this certificate signed by G Nicholson assitant chief constable of hants. Description Height 5ft 3ins Hair Brown/Eyes Hazel/Complexion Dark. Hope you find it of interest.

    (Posted on 2009-01-08 19:39:00 by Andrew Johnson)

83. trying to find anyone who knows any information on the rawlin/rawlings of tadley or stacey who travelled as hawkers and chimney sweep.

    decentents of william rawlins and kezhia bull wiltshire.

    e-mail sfalcon@hotmail.co.uk

    (Posted on 2009-01-07 17:45:00 by sonia falcon)

84. Hello Linda Ive just started researching Charles extened family if find a Minnie Johnson i will pass on the details to you Andy

    (Posted on 2009-01-03 18:34:00 by andrew johnson)

85. Hi Andrew yes i have done research into the same families you mention as i have connections to the family I will email you as have quitea bit of info .

    Also the families have married into one another.

    (Posted on 2009-01-02 23:58:00 by Siteowner)

86. andrew did your charles johnson have any relations called minnie johnson.my grt granny was a johnson her father was a hawker.linda

    (Posted on 2009-01-02 23:28:00 by linda ackleton)

87. Hello I wonder if you could help me with my gypsies roots. I will give you a short history of what i know i traced the Johnson side back to a Charles Johnson a gypsie/hawker born 1827 in Headcorn Kent. The Pidgley side comes from my Grandmother a Caroline Pidgley who was a gypsy born in the New Forest and her sister Sarah Pidgley married a Job Cooper. Also i use to visit with my mother a Gypsy Cooper on the Isle of Wight who did palm and crystal ball reading ect in the summer season but she lived in the New Forest she was my mother's aunty. Would it be possible for you to tell me if you ever heard of the surnames Pidgley or Johnson from a gypsy background. Also have you any knowledge of Gypsy Cooper. thank you Andy.

    (Posted on 2009-01-02 19:20:00 by Andrew Johnson)

88. Thanks Selina what a lovely thing to say your making me blush !!LOL hope you and everyone else has a great 2009 and may it be Healthy and Peacefull and a Happy one ! And thanks to everyone who has sent in pictures and family information it all helps to connect the old folks up

    Happy New Year !!!

    (Posted on 2009-01-01 22:46:00 by Sue)

89. HAPPY NEW YEAR SUE... I HOPE 2009 BRINGS YOU ALL GOOD THINGS...GOOD HEALTH LOVE AND HAPPINESS

    YOUR A STAR THAT SHINES BRIGHT FOR MANY, MANY PEOPLE WHO WOULD BE LOST WITHOUT YOU AND THIS SITE

    LOVE AND BEST WISHES ALWAYS SELINAXXXXXXXXX

    (Posted on 2008-12-31 13:18:00 by selina turner)

90. Hi, I have just started researching my family History and come across this site.

    I was hopeing someone might be able to help.

    My fathers name was Arthur Smith 1946 - 1999 he was married to a Kathleen Walker.

    I have been told that his Fathers name was Wisdom Smith who passed away in 1978 in Hereford.

    I Think his Fathers name was also Wisdom Smith and they both lived on Hartlebury Common.

    My mum thinks that there was a brother to the 1st Wisdom called Nally who married a Render and they have twins called Tony and Annie if

    anyone knows any thing about this i would love to hear from you.

    My fathers mothers name was Barker.

    I will also be back to this site looking for Arthur Locke (Fiddler Locke ) from Herefordshire very soon .

    
    

    Thanks very much

    Alison

    (Posted on 2008-12-31 12:51:00 by alison)

91. Thanks it would be good if more folk knew or could give info on Hartlebury Common !! a few folks are looking for info on their families so get in touch if anyone knows the Hodgkins and Coleman families or any otehrs that stopped there Thanks,

    (Posted on 2008-12-29 12:26:00 by Siteowner)

92. Good to see the Hartlebury common page, my relations were camping there in 1891. They were the Egerton/Eggerton family.

    (Posted on 2008-12-27 16:20:00 by r markham)

93. would just like to wish everyone a happy christmas i still lovelooking on the site, to all the Birches and Orchards and many more a Happy New Year

    (Posted on 2008-12-23 13:57:00 by jacqueline down)

94. I just wanted to say that I thought my name was rare until I read this site.

    A lot of my Coopers were gypsies - but I could not see any familure names.

    Perrin Cooper

    (Posted on 2008-12-19 02:28:00 by Perrin Cooper)

95. If anyone comes across a Charles Coleman who married into the Hearne family (I think Lucy Hearne?) I'd be interested in hearing from you. They married in Watford. I can be found as Romany Star on Genes Reunited.

    (Posted on 2008-12-18 16:21:00 by Rebekah Markham / Romany_Star)

96. Thankyou Paddy glad you liked my site and thankyou for your lovely comments,I will have a look in on your new forum Kushti Bokt.

    (Posted on 2008-12-14 21:58:00 by Siteowner)

97. Firstly, may I just say how deeply impressed I am with this wonderful, informative and educational website of yours; I have learned so much from this first visit that I fully intend to return again and again.

    Secondly, I like to thank you for placing a link to my new Irish Traveller’s Forum, which I recently set up it up to offer another platform for fellow Traveller and Gypsies to discuss issues of mutual interest and also so that members of the Settled Community (non-Travellers) can see that we are not in anyway like we are sometimes portrayed in the papers; that we are law-abiding, good natured, decent people who try and earn an honest living as best we can. Yes, there are some within our society who do cause trouble, but this problem is not unique to us alone as there are unfortunately trouble makers in all walks of life and the Travelling Community is no different in that respect.

    Anyway, thanks again for this wonderful website of yours.

    Paddy J Cawley.

    (Posted on 2008-12-14 14:34:00 by Paddy J Cawley)

98. hi sue have not heard from you in a long time ,but thats my fault have not been about much .just wanted to tell you that my gr gr exc grandad francis doe did marry elizabeth etherton and elizabeth hedges ok just thought i would let you and louise no .its still a great site but no one seems to no anything or won,t tell well never mind im still looking . unity

    (Posted on 2008-12-08 23:40:00 by unity parker)

99. Thankyou Dorothy glad you like my site.many thanks for your kind comments.

    (Posted on 2008-12-07 12:06:00 by siteowner)

100. Hello Owner(s) of this site.You have a truly wonderful site.Not only the information on the site,but connections that can be made through the site.Also you have amazing skills to make such a wonderful looking site.Congratulations,I love it all.Dorothy

     (Posted on 2008-12-02 05:54:00 by Dorothy Hollings)