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If anyone is interested, A Romany writer, ROSEMARY PENFOLD has written a book about her life as a Romany in Somerset in the forties and entered it in THE PEOPLE'S AUTHOR COMPETITION on the ALAN TITCHMARSH SHOW.

The GRAND FINAL is on Monday (after the weekend on the 23rd November)

It is a LIVE SHOW and there is a public phone vote.

She is one of only FOUR finalists and if she wins her book will be published in April 2010.

In the book she remembers the BOSWELLS, SMITHS, BAILEYS AND LOVERIDGE FAMILIES.

Watch it on ITV 1 at 3pm Monday - LIVE.

Her book is called "A Field Full of Butterflies"

DON'T MISS IT!

(Posted on 2009-11-20 23:02:00 by Sarah Churchill)
If anyone is interested, A Romany writer, ROSEMARY PENFOLD has written a book about her life as a Romany in Somerset in the forties and entered it in THE PEOPLE'S AUTHOR COMPETITION on the ALAN TITCHMARSH SHOW.

The GRAND FINAL is on Monday (after the weekend on the 23rd November)

It is a LIVE SHOW and there is a public phone vote.

She is one of only FOUR finalists and if she wins her book will be published in April 2010.

In the book she remembers the BOSWELLS, SMITHS, BAILEYS AND LOVERIDGE FAMILIES.

Watch it on ITV 1 at 3pm Monday - LIVE.

Her book is called "A Field Full of Butterflies"

DON'T MISS IT!

(Posted on 2009-11-20 23:02:00 by Sarah Churchill)
If anyone is interested, A Romany writer, ROSEMARY PENFOLD has written a book about her life as a Romany in Somerset in the forties and entered it in THE PEOPLE'S AUTHOR COMPETITION on the ALAN TITCHMARSH SHOW.

The GRAND FINAL is on Monday (after the weekend on the 23rd November)

It is a LIVE SHOW and there is a public phone vote.

She is one of only FOUR finalists and if she wins her book will be published in April 2010.

In the book she remembers the BOSWELLS, SMITHS, BAILEYS AND LOVERIDGE FAMILIES.

Watch it on ITV 1 at 3pm Monday - LIVE.

Her book is called "A Field Full of Butterflies"

DON'T MISS IT!

(Posted on 2009-11-20 23:02:00 by Sarah Churchill)
Greetings!

This is a wonderful site...

I have two questions, basically.

(1) Was it common for a Gypsy /Traveller man to court a non-gypsy woman? On the birth record of my great-grandmother, Emily Crick, 1851, her mother (as we know) Margaret Crick, of Poplar, Middlesex, but then resident in Pimlico, gave birth in November to a little girl Emily. The child was given the mother's surname.

Her father was not listed on the actual Birth record from the Lambeth Lying-in Hospital, but on the later Baptismal Record, from the same hospital, the father was listed as : James James. There was a line drawn for "residence", and under "Quality, Profession, Trade" only the word "Traveller".

From this I think J. James may have been a Gypsy Traveller. I hope so!

They did not marry. Margaret's employer paid the hospital stay, and she went on to work as a hospital nurse until her sad death there from a fever in 1861. Her parents took in little Emily and raised her decently, thank God. I believe illegitimate children usually did not fare too well in those days.

(2) Would James have felt any claim on his daughter, or had any obligation to marry Margaret, or could it have merely been a brief encounter and he moved on, perhaps not knowing. I would like to think that Margaret would have had some sense of commitment, etc. before yielding to his charm, but there I go imposing my morals.....

Any suggestions or direction for further search would be very much appreciated!

Thanks.

(Posted on 2009-11-18 23:02:00 by Rita Mahar)
Thanks (Mike Clifford ) for info regarding the Boswell and heaps family I'm finding the Heaps hard to trace !!:)

(Posted on 2009-11-14 21:46:00 by Siteowner)
URANIA GRAY

was my husbands gt.grandmother. She was supposedly married to William Sowden, Hawker, and they had six children. four of whom died under five years of age. in 1870 her son John died in the workhouse in King's Lynn and was buried under the name John Gray, ( not Sowden) son of Urania Gray. We cannot trace what happened to Urania after that, and can find no record of her death. Her son James(my husband's grandfather born in 1864) also took the name Gray, whereas her other son William kept the name Sowden. He lived with his father in lodgings in the 1871 census. I can find no trace of James, until 1881 census where he was an apprentice Baker, lodging with his employer. BUT WHAT HAPPENED TO URANIA? Her parents were Robert and Sarah Gray, travellers, and appeared in the 1861 census living in South Walsham, Norfolk. If anyone can help me I would be very grateful.

Helen Few

(Posted on 2009-11-14 16:51:00 by Helen Few)
Hello,

Noticed your interest in the Boswell family and by chance having assisted someone researching a connection betwen the Heaps and the Revills I came across the following that might be new to you.

Checking my data for Whitwell St lawrence's, Derbyshire, I find that on May 16th 1811 there was the burial of a Jane Boswell (a travelling Gypsy) and an Israel Boswell. No DoB for Israel but 1711! for Jane. I suspect this might be mother and child dying in childbirth or shortly after, but if Jane was elderly then it might have been an epidemic of some sort. There are no other occurrences of Boswwell in these Whitwell burial records, and it does suggest another possible link to Cinamente Boswell who married John Heaps.

Kind regards,

Mike Clifford

(Posted on 2009-11-12 10:04:00 by Mike Clifford)
Hi

My great grandmother was Laurina Waterfield born in Buxton, Norfolk in 1876. She married George Wilson, who was not a Romany, at Methwold in 1892. If anyone has any information about her or her family I would really love to hear from them. Apparently she was a lovely person and it would be so good to know more about her.

Many thanks

(Posted on 2009-11-11 20:02:00 by Jane)
to Kirsty Abbott,

my family travelled originally from the north of England,they then were local to London and Hertfordshire,my great grandfather was a horse dealer,it was said that we had family in Kent a long time ago,we might be realated,our family names are,Abbott,Cooper,Perry,Peters,are any of these names in your family?

from Michael Abbott.

(Posted on 2009-11-10 11:48:00 by Michael Abbott)
I am a freelance writer writing an article for the Eastern Daily Press about the murder of Susan Wilson by James Nichol in Feltwell in 1908. I came across your reference to the EDP article about the trial and the fact that Susan was a gypsy. Can you give me any other information about her or this case? I have asked the EDP for a copy of the article but anything about her being a gypsy would be good to put in my story. Also you say she is "the daughter of old Hay". Can you tell me about him and their family too? Were her first husband (Daniel Wilson) and her third husband (Charles Wilson) related? Also do you have any pictures of her or her previous life?

Hope you can help.

Cheers

John Wright

(Posted on 2009-11-10 10:08:00 by John Wright)
HI REPLY TO PAUL IN CANADA

I HAVE A BOSWELL IN MY TREE WHICH BOSWELL IS IT AS THERE ARE SO MANY

VIVIENNE EMAIL ADDRESS vivi29underscore 336@hotmail.com i keep loosing my under score so i wrote it in this time

many thanks vivienne

(Posted on 2009-11-10 10:00:00 by VIVIENNE)
HI ME AGAIN I SEE THE UNDERSCORE IS MISSING FROM MY EMAIL ADDRESS

SO ITS HERE AGAIN vivi29_336@hotmail.com

many thanks for THIS WONDERFULL SITE KEEP IT UPAND WELL KEEP ON LOOKING

GREAT WORK WELL DONE TO ALL VIVIENNE

(Posted on 2009-11-10 09:53:00 by VIVIENNE)
HI CAN THE PERSON WHO POSTED THE PHOTO

OF JAMES AND HARRIET

ON ROMANY GENES GET IN TOUCH PLEASE

HAS MY GRANDMOTHER MARY IS IN THE PICTURE

AND GREAT GRANDMOTHER HARRIETT

I DO NOT HAVE A PICTURE OF THESE AND WOULD BE VERY HAPPY TO GET A COPY IT WOULD BE GREAT TO HEAR FROM YOU

AND GET ANY INFO REGAURDS THIS FAMILY PLEASE !!!!!!

VIVIENNE EMAIL vivi29_336@hotmail.com

(Posted on 2009-11-10 09:47:00 by vivienne)
IHello All,

'm interested in finding out more info about the Shoesmiths/Shuesmiths who lived in and around the Lambourne forest area Chigwell. My Great Grandfather John Shoesmith known as "Romany Jack".

Many thanks,

Allie

(Posted on 2009-11-08 17:41:00 by Allie)
Gill.

Hello and thanks to the person who posted the help for Fuchsia smith.

Please can you give me some kind of geographical location and estimated dob for Lander smith. Also can you confirm the spelling and what sex lander is. Have also heard of Londa

Many thanks if you can help.

(Posted on 2009-11-08 12:08:00 by Gill)
Hiya

Just wondered if anyone had any info on Elizabeth Coates and family from the orpington area origanally from cambridge. Also on any Abbotts again from the orpington area?

Many thanks

(Posted on 2009-11-06 14:28:00 by Kirsty Abbott)
Hiya

Just wondered if anyone had any info on Elizabeth Coates and family from the orpington area origanally from cambridge. Also on any Abbotts again from the orpington area?

Many thanks

(Posted on 2009-11-06 14:28:00 by Kirsty Abbott)
Hi

I'm researching my family tree and would like some help regarding the Boswell branch. I have been able to go back as far as Solivano (b.1757-1848) and Comfort (wood) Boswell.,who were married in Knowle, Warwickshire in 1812. Unfortunately I have recently moved to Canada making this task more difficult. Any help on identifying ancestors of these people would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Paul

(Posted on 2009-11-06 03:15:00 by Paul Mellor)
i am trying to trace my granparents familys my grandfather was joseph lowe on his marriage certificate it says his father was also a joseph occupation showman my grandfather was born around 1882 to 85 my grandmother was called ellen neale her father was also a showman most of our family to date originate from the warwickshire area would appreciate any leads or help thanks

(Posted on 2009-11-05 19:25:00 by ellen)
Dear John.

Thank you for your reply, I am a bit confused with my ancestry and will eventually find all the answers I require.

I have finally heard from a family member who may be able to help a bit.

Of course I have the added emotion that goes with finding my blood family for the first time but it is worth it.

I am really proud of my roots and learn new things on a daily basis.

I have learned that Fuschia who I believed to be Smith was in fact a Lea, daughter of Londa?

Is Londa a male or female, and can you or anybody else confirm the spelling or does the name vary.

My apologies for the questions but to finally reach the 1901 census would make me very happy.

I have been told the other side of the family (my Grandmother and Great Grand mother) Taylor and Price will be difficult to locate as they travelled extensively.

I do like a challenge.

Many thanks for your help.

(Posted on 2009-11-01 21:24:00 by Gill)
Correction to last post - should read married as Walter Jeffs & Eliza Ayres

(Posted on 2009-11-01 19:16:00 by John)
For Gill,

Hi, You need to place yourself in the position of the person recording the information as most Travelers could not read or write in the 1800's so the enumerator recorded what he thought he heard and his idea of what the spelling should be, unlike today where you or I would look at what was being written down and point out if a mistake was being made.

Many travelers did not bother to marry and were often persuaded to do so by the Church Army, this resulted in many marriages taking place after a number of children had been born, In my wife's family one couple married when he was 39 and she was 37 they had at least 9 children by this time,

Children's age and even names could alter across the census years, and as an example the couple I just mentioned were in the 1881 census aged 34 & 32, 1891 aged 44 & 40, 1901 aged 56 & 48, 1911 aged 69 & 64 they married as Walter Jeffs & Eliza Bland but died and were buried as Walter Bland & Eliza Bland.

I hope this does not confuse you to much, but it does illustrate that you need to dig deep to find the truth

(Posted on 2009-11-01 19:13:00 by John)
Ive always wondered why the name Coralina is predominantly a Gypsy name. I have several in my tree, and looking at the census', most Coralina's were from Gypsy families. Why, where did the name come from?

(Posted on 2009-10-30 19:25:00 by Romany lass)
To John and other post.

Having checked out the dates for fushia and other details. I'm not sure if this is the same one. I am more puzzled as every time I find an entry the name is spelt differently. I have found Fushia, Fuchsia, Fewshaw, and more. The one I seek was married in 1913, I presume she was born early 1990's.

You mention Lander Smith. Who is this and do you have an estimated date of birth or area please.

Also, I have noticed several smith families is there is any information you or anybody else could give me as to the origins of the smith families and how far back do I need to go before it becomes apparent which family are my ancestors.

I ask as I would like to learn more about the culture including the language.

I am very proud of my roots and am coming to terms with my new found knowledge, learning more daily.

I would really like an education section on this site, don't know what anybody else thinks.

What does Kushti Bokt mean. Also going to meet some of my family who still speak the language would love to impress with something simple.

How do I say I am really pleased to meet you, or something similar.

(Posted on 2009-10-30 01:04:00 by Gill)
hi is anyone related to george digger stanley looking for info about him hes my grt grt grandad please if you have any info or ur related please let me know thanx

(Posted on 2009-10-29 18:42:00 by ria)
My grandmother once told me that her fathers (my great-grandfather) family were Gypsies from Norfolk (probably Norwich area) Their name was Tubby but I've not been able to find any information to link the name Tubby to romany gypsies in Norwich at the end of the 1800s and turn of the century. Is Tubby a romany gypsy name?

Thank you for any light you can shed on this query.

Kirsty

(Posted on 2009-10-29 16:19:00 by kirsty)
To John,

Many thanks for the info, I am checking it now. Can't tell you what this means to me, I was struggling a bit. I think thats my great grand parents on the paternal side. I only have to find the maternal side now who were also Romany.

I'm supposed to be researching for my sociology Masters. I suppose this counts.

Thanks once again, eternally greatful.

(Posted on 2009-10-29 12:16:00 by Gill)
Hi...am hoping someone can answer my query please...am trying to establish whether the Lambourne family from Wiltshire, later on in Stanford in the Vale, Berkshire in the 1800's, have connections to the Romany.

Some of the families they married into were Smith, Keen, King, Day, Owen.

My Gt Grandmother Rhoda lived in a caravan, with her husband Charles Smith, along with my Grandmother and my father.

One of the places my Dad remembered being at , was on land belonging to the cigarette manufacturer, Wills, in Berkshire somewhere I think.

Any help gratefully received, thanks, Shirley

(Posted on 2009-10-26 07:08:00 by Shirley)
Hi,

I have been researching my family tree. I think I am decended from Edward Hodgkins mentioned in the 1841 census, living in tents on Lineholt common. He was married twice. I think his first wife was Penelope Archer. His son Thomas is my ancestor. Thomas Hodgkins is described as a travelling tinker in the 1851 census, living In Mill street Worcestershire. Although Thomas was not there at the time ,his son Ryley (Peyley) age 13 was looking after his siblings, Susan 9, Walter 7, George 5 ( My gt gt granfather) Rebecca 3 & Wilson 1. It says next to Ryley`s name, "Father is out, son of head". Further along it says, "best information I could get". The census official obviously had a hard time getting anything out of Ryley. If anyone has anymore information about this family I would be very grateful. Yours Karen

(Posted on 2009-10-24 18:41:00 by Karen Osgood)
Hi I am working on my family tree but I have run into a problem with regards to my Great Grandfather Moses Sherred born near Andover, Married and lived in Odiham for a while then moved permanently to the New Forest Area - Wooldbridge/Three Legged Cross. Do you have any information to share regarding Moses' family.

Many thanks Jeff

(Posted on 2009-10-22 12:40:00 by jeff)
Found in the 1891 census - Fusia Smith, Parents John, Elizabeth, Born abt 1878 in Staffordshire, England, Relationship Daughter, Census place, Castleton, Lancashire - RG12; Piece: 3332; Folio 124; Page 55.

I hope this helps, Regards John

(Posted on 2009-10-21 05:34:00 by John)
To Gill who posted the message below Fuchsia Smith was the doughter of Lander Smith.

Gill 2009.8.20 00:11

Hi,

Although I have posted several times, thought I'd try again.

I am researching my grandparents who were Martha Ellen Taylor nee Pries/ or Price b. 1918 and Joseph Rogerson b. 1912 whose mothers maiden name was Smith.

I believe I have found Josephs parents but would like confirmation if anybody can help.

I have Joseph Rogerson and Fuchsia Smith who were married in 1913. Warrington.

I am unable to find Fuchsia on a census, birth or death record.

Does anybody know who she was and where she was born. I know the family were travellers and I believe from both sides.

I was the first generation not to be born in a caravan.

The family seemed to travel between Nantwich and Chester/ Wales, if this is any help.

Also Martha Ellen and Joseph jnr are buried in Nantwich. I thought maybe they had other family / relatives in the area.

Any help or suggestions greatfully received.

(Posted on 2009-10-20 14:13:00 by To Gill)
Hello.

I wonder if you could possibly help me im researching my family tree and im trying to find out as much as i can about my grandparents a Thomas Cater and Anna ( nee Low ) i have been told that he had his own fair and my mother would have worked on it her name was Laura Lthel Cater also his father had a fair and his name was Joseph Cater , she married a Stanley Esau Gray who was also a fair ground worker.

any information about them would be gratefully recieved.

Clifford Grey

(Posted on 2009-10-19 10:32:00 by clifford grey)
I am in need of any information on the Owen and Harriet Stanley tribe of which I am a direct decendant. I have always been told that we have a bloodline to the queen of England. If anyone has proff of this, I would love to know. You web site has been so helpful.

(Posted on 2009-10-18 20:28:00 by Debbie Slack)
please could the person who put the pictures of the hedges family on photo galley page 17, would you please send me an e-mail as these people belong to my family and would be interested in copies of these, perhaps you could e-mail them to me.

cheers henry hedges of belvedere kent

(Posted on 2009-10-18 18:04:00 by henryhedges)
To Karren Merricks,

We have some Merricks here in Western Australia, Not sure how or when they got here. My niece married into that family.I'll investigate further if you want me to. email: vk6kts@wia.org.au. Like you say if you grow up with the "old" ways you think and act differently to the gajas arround you. Cheers

Kathi

(Posted on 2009-10-18 16:39:00 by Kathi (Australia))
hi have just left a message regarding the boyd family but I'm unsure it I have sent it correctly how can I check thanks alot jill

(Posted on 2009-10-15 10:00:00 by gillian forster)
I am interested in any Romany or gypsy families who may have had connections with the district (or village?) of Longney, in the area between the Cotswolds and the Wesh border. In particular any connection with yeoman farmer William Ellis (in late 1800s), or a woman named Laura Bates.

(Posted on 2009-10-14 06:14:00 by Zoe)
Information for Site

I have researched the Elliotts of Willoughby on the Wolds and have this information which is not currently on your site. I am very happy to contribute to such a good web resource;

I have this Marriage Certificate:

In the Parish Church of Peterborough by licence on 17th November 1865

William Gray Full age Bachelor Horse jobber Billingborough Charles Gray Brazier

Mary Ann Elliott Full age Spinster Peterborough Willaim Elliott Labourer

Winesses Emily Gray and Robert English

Census information for this couple:

1871 RG10 / 3347 North Kyme, Lincs "sleeping in vans" with other Grays

1881 RG 11 / 3201 Couple have settled in Donington, Lincs

1891 RG 12 /2560 Still living in Donington

(Posted on 2009-10-09 05:56:00 by Denise)
Elijah & Godfrey Wood are listed in the pedigree of Abram Wood compiled by Dr. Sampson

as sons of Adam & Ellen Wood. Yet, Elijah & Godfrey's marriage certificates list Jeremiah

Wood as their father. Can anyone resolve this situation for me? Thanks much.

(Posted on 2009-10-08 11:43:00 by Earle Smith)
WRIGHT Samuel was my G G Grandfather, according to his Trial and Convict records he was born in Buckinghamshire in 1826, Samuel was tried at Banbury Oxford on 3 Jan. 1826, his occupation was labourer and described as a Gypsy Traveller, his partner in crime was George Jones, Jones occupation was a drover.

Samuel had a brother John but that is all I know about his siblings (this from the convict record), Samuel was transported to Tasmania in the Lady Palmyra departing 18 Apr.1846 and arriving 23 Aug. 1846.

The trial was reported in the Jacksonâs Oxford Journal on 10 Jan. 1846

I am seeking any information relating to Samuel and his family in the UK.

Hoping someone can shed some light on this family.

Regards Peter

(Posted on 2009-10-07 23:59:00 by Peter Arnold)
I have been trying or many years to ind out what happened to my 3x great grandather Samuel Harris born 1816 Oakley, Hampshire, the son of James Harris and Phebe Earley . He had 4 children with Mary Ann Gritt but seems to have disappeared around 1844. Mary subsequently married Joseph Rawlings in 1847. Can ind no further trace of Samuel. Can anyone help please?

(Posted on 2009-10-04 20:47:00 by sid barker)
Hi I am desperately trying to find some information about my grand father Thomas Williams born in Sittingbourne Kent on 6th August 1892. He was from a Romany family his father Samuel's occupation on my grandparent's wedding certificate is given as 'tinker' . My grand dad told me that his family were 'pure romany' not sure what he meant by that. He was born in a vardo in a field in Kent. The only other thing I know is that he had a brother call Nathan or Nate who had a wooden leg! My uncle was called after another family member Olby and another uncle was called given the name Sampson again after one of grand dad's relations. Any tips or information would be greatly appreciated - Grand dad doesn't have a birth certificate so checking has been a nightmare !

(Posted on 2009-10-04 20:12:00 by Jo Williams)
Hi there just thought id add to the Tappin query i have a Richard Tippin on my fathers familys side from the Forest of Dean Welsh border discribed on the 1851 census as a Chimney sweep/Pauper i cant say for definate if theres a link but i do know back in them times surnames were not always spelt the same,also there is a Large family called Tappin in Didcot a town between oxford and Reading bang on the Berkshire border they own and run a coach firm

(Posted on 2009-10-04 12:03:00 by Duncan McDonald)
Too James (RE TAPPENS)

I have Tappen cousins in South Wales , my Great Aunt Helen Lee Married Albert Tappen , I met my Uncle Hosea Tappen in 1999 (I havn't heard from since (he may have pasted on) but From What I can gather Tappens May have come from Irish Travelers back in the 1800's and some married into Romani Families such as my Grans side Lee's.

Hosea couldn't read or write and was born at Brooks field Newport Mon where my Lovell & Lee side were back in the 1920's.

I can tell you Tappens are also related to Fords, Allens , Dixon's plus my lot. (these Tappens Settled into houses before my famies did and from all accounts some of them did very well in School etc )

Unfortunitly I fell out with some of Hosea's Children , they made fun & insulted their Romani cousins so I don't have contact with them. mainly caused by A Gorgo who married one of Hosea's Daughters (something that has made me very sad )

anyway yes Tappens are Travelers as to being originly Romani I can't say one way or the other.

Bokt.

Bob Lovell.

(Posted on 2009-10-04 02:28:00 by bob lovell.)
hi my granny was rose well also know by roadey she was brought up in the newforest i woul like 2 now who her famliy is i now she had a brother called eddy wells an she also had sepbothers and sisters i think her mum is berried at coppyforn so if u know please let me now thanks

(Posted on 2009-10-02 13:07:00 by carol)
hi my granny was rose well also know by roadey she was brought up in the newforest i woul like 2 now who her famliy is i now she had a brother called eddy wells an she also had sepbothers and sisters i think her mum is berried at coppyforn so if u know please let me now thanks

(Posted on 2009-10-02 13:07:00 by carol)
Hi, wondering if anyone can help me in my quest to trace family tree.My nans maiden name was beeney and her fathers name was arthur edward beeney.Ive been told that about 4 generations back from her there was a george beeney who married a sarah.I dont seem to be able to find any in leicester which is where many of her side were from and i keep finding many beeneys in kent.We also have the name of flook who was my nans mother.Alot of that side of the family seem to be from bristol. heres hoping and reguards to all Dawn

(Posted on 2009-09-30 23:01:00 by dawn)
Hi

Before my father died he told me that the Merricks family were travelers from Ireland and that his father's Father was a very well known gypsy as was his Grandmother. Apparently his grandmother was a well known fortune teller and His grandfather was a fighter also very well known. They would have moved from Ireland to Birmingham in the UK at about the turn of the century 1900's. His fathers name was Bert and had many brothers and sisters - alledgedly he was the seventh! My Grandmothers name was Alice and she also was of traveling families and could predict and tell fortunes with accuracy that was scary sometimes Both were born and bought up in Birmingham UK both from traveling families and with the code that was passed on to us. As Merricks is not a common name I wonder if anyone could help me to find out as much as I can about this side of my family. It is hard for me as I was not aware untill I was 30+ of this as he had not mentioned it before. He did say that this is why we (my sister and I) think and act differently from others as we had been tought the old ways of our heritage. and also why we could see things that others could not see. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

(Posted on 2009-09-27 18:45:00 by Karen Merricks)
Hi. I am investigating my Great Grandmother. Her name was Sophia Stanley. She was born around 1885, i presume somewhere in Devon, England. Her father was a Thomas Stanley. All I know was that he was a Horse dealer. Sophia married my great granfather Joseph Daw in September 1902 in Plymouth, England. I know its not much to go on. I have a feeling Thomas Stanley and his family came from America as my great aunt lived with them. She went over when she was 14. I haven't got the dates. Her name was Betsy Daw. Apparently they went on a trip to bring back horses, but she got ill and had to stay there. If anybody can help me, I would be really grateful!!

(Posted on 2009-09-22 18:09:00 by Samantha Burgess)
Can anyone help with regards to the Dixey /Huxley family living on Mitcham Common.

I have been trying to research my mothers side of the family who were travelling gypsies. My grandad ( George Huxley) mothers name Lydia Dixey.

I seem to have hit a brick wall.

Regards

(Posted on 2009-09-16 16:56:00 by Debra Deacon (re: Huxley/Dixey))
CORRECTION : I had thought that my ancestor's name was Romaine GILBERT from Canada but he was Roumaine GILBERT who lived in Detroit. His wife was Mary Maude WELLS and their daughter, Lena (on one record) and Maude (on another ) was married in Port Dover, Ontario, Canada in 1910. She was born in 1892 or 1894 depending on which record you believe.There were a lot on non-Romany Gilberts who lived in that town. I re-checked the records and realized that he was probably born in U.S. around 1865-70. Not sure if he was Romany - just the name seems odd if he wasn't. Same story with Mary Maude.

I am intersted in British Romany families with these surnames. I have no way to know when my ancestorsmight have come to U.S. or if they were even U.S. born. Any information could potentially be helpful.

(Posted on 2009-09-15 21:33:00 by mary bates)
Dear all,

Does anyone have Tappins in their tree? I am descendd from a Thomas Tappin (1821-1874) Who was a Bone Cutter, born in Bethnal Green. He married an Elizabeth Ransome in 1842. Then circa 1861 he is living with a Maria Morris who was a Marine Stores Dealer and daughter of a John Morris-General Dealer. Their children used the names of Tappin and Morris interchangeably. And my Great Grandmother Harriet Morris (Daughter of Alfred Morris=Agnes Maria Smith (Born: 1859-Wood street, Epping Forest and daughter of David Smith of Dane End and Elizabeth Gunn) is from this family. I also know that Terence Lee has a relation who married a Sharon Tappin in 1990. Does anyone know anything about the Tappins? They do appear to be Romany or related through marriage to some Romany families.

My Uncle John Smith, is descended from Royal Hearn (1831-1908)=Sarah Herbert and the Hearns of Nottingdale. And my niece married a man who is related to the Renals of Cornwall on his mothers side. So I have quite alot of Romany relations.

Love to hear from anyone who know sof these families.

Best wishes,

James Gundersen-McLaughlin.

(Posted on 2009-09-14 17:56:00 by James Gundersen-Mclaughlin)
My name is omi keates i am from clubb, keates from my fathers side. Penfold and Hughes from my mothers side of the families. I am based in Sandwich Kent and would be interested to know of anyone with these connections. My grandfather William Penfold was from a travelling showman my grandmother was a hughes from london maybe jewish connections, thisis my mothers side. My fathers side clubb and keates were new forest hampshire and dover kent. could anyone please help me with these connections.

(Posted on 2009-09-13 22:22:00 by Omi)
My name is omi keates i am from clubb, keates from my fathers side. Penfold and Hughes from my mothers side of the families. I am based in Sandwich Kent and would be interested to know of anyone with these connections. My grandfather William Penfold was from a travelling showman my grandmother was a hughes from london maybe jewish connections, thisis my mothers side. My fathers side clubb and keates were new forest hampshire and dover kent. could anyone please help me with these connections.

(Posted on 2009-09-13 22:22:00 by Omi)
My grandmother is the daughter of grace (scamp or williams) who was 1 of 12 children born to martha scamp. I would like any information regarding my heritage.

(Posted on 2009-09-10 12:27:00 by michelle mills)
Hello, I am Canadian. I have been searching for information about my GILBERT ancestors. I now suspect there is gypsy ancestry. I am interested in any British genealogies of the names GILBERT and WELLS.

My Canadian ancestor's name was Romaine GILBERT

(Posted on 2009-09-09 19:54:00 by mary bates)
Please can anyone help me with tracing my great grand parents,Alexander and Pheobe Smith.Born about 1840 and lived and travelled in the Reading Berkshire area in their travelling van.I think they had ten children ....Arthur, Ernest, Brittania, Israel, William, Henry, Bertie, Elizerbeth (Nelly), Herbert and Andrew.We have found them on the 1881 cencus living in Caversham Road Reading in their travelling van.Most of the chidren were baptised in Reading.I have been unable to find any trace of both Alexander and Pheobe's parents,can any out there help me?

(Posted on 2009-09-09 13:14:00 by Vivien Smith)
too alison Ogdon.

Pennar very interesting reading your Lovell tree, I see names (surnames the same as some of my lot in Wales married) Lee , Bennet for two.

I'm sure the English Lovell's & welsh Lovell's were the same stock.

Bokt.

Bob.

(Posted on 2009-09-08 06:15:00 by BoB Lovell)
Has anyone got any info about a gypsy fair at matchams near ringwood Hants heard it is coming up in the next couple of weeks but cannot find a definate date

(Posted on 2009-09-07 19:54:00 by Alexandra Lockyer)
Hello

Anyone have any info on a gyspy family surname James; my great great grandmother was a romany gypsy - her name Mary Jane James 1863 - 1946 about.. It is believed that she came from a gypsy site just outside (Bedwelty) Brynmawr Wales.

She then settled in Swansea but kept her gypsy caravan in the garden and was skilled in herbalism and husbandry.

Any info about her, family or just the gypsy site would be a wonderful help to me.

Thanks

(Posted on 2009-09-06 19:54:00 by Shirley Jenkins)
Hi All

My main line is Doe , from the New Forest. Other connections are James,Bowers,Sherred and variants,Lamb,Wells,Williams.More distantly,Barnes,Lakey and Ripley. If anyone knows of any photos of Matilda Wells nee Doe or Florence Beatrice Bull nee Doe,I would be pleased to hear from them.

Areas are mostly Longdown Colbury ,Eling,Bartley, Copythorne,East Boldre,Beaulieu, Minstead,Bransgore and Thorney Hill.

Thanks Lesley Doe.

(Posted on 2009-09-06 11:36:00 by lesleyd)
forgot to say please contact me at clairmiller5914@hotmail.com

(Posted on 2009-09-05 12:20:00 by clair miller)
hello,i am doing my father's family tree which is quite complicated,as you see both sides where gypsies with the name mochan,originally they came from ireland,they then settled in wales.i know one side came from gilway,that was a michael mochan born abt 1841 he has also said that he was from pembrokeshire on some censuses.the other side was a patrick mochan born abt 1815 ireland.these 2 people spent most of their lives travelling around south and west wales.i am looking for anybody who is a descendant of these people ot anyone who is researching the name mochan/machon/mochen/machen/mohan/mohun/mochun/muchun.to list a few of the different spellings.i would be very gratefull for any information anybody can give me.thanksx

(Posted on 2009-09-05 02:59:00 by clair miller)
Hi

I am trying to find my grandfather William Meredith. I have the marriage cert for my grandparents . My dad also William stated that his parents separated when he was about 2yrsold. Grandma Ellen Hulbert was born in Forest of dean and moved with the family to Durham late 1880s. William states on the 1911 census that he was born in LANKSHIRE?? Both are listed as licenced hawkers.

Dad remembered that grandma smoked a clay pipe and granddad travelled on a cart with "pans hanging down". On the marriage cert William gives his father's details as William Meredith deceased grass cutter. All very generic. I have searched the 1871 census for lancashire but unable to locate a Wm son of Wm born in 1868 . This seems like a needle in a haystack situation. Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

Cheers Maria

(Posted on 2009-09-04 19:27:00 by Maria Hill-Bennett)
Hello,

I am trying to find infomation on my great grandmother, Kezia Booth. She was born 1881 in Oakham and in 1902 married William Giddings. I have found her on the 1911 census with her husband and children living in Kings Cliffe, Northamptonshire, but can not find her on any census before this. I have found record of other Booths living in Oakham around the time of her birth and believe these to be Romany Gypsies, this will also back up what my mother always told me that Kezia was from Romany Gypsy background. I initialy simply want to find out who her parents were but any other infomation would be great, hope someone can help. Thank you.

(Posted on 2009-09-04 11:28:00 by Heidi North)
Hello,

I am trying to find infomation on my great grandmother, Kezia Booth. She was born 1881 in Oakham and in 1902 married William Giddings. I have found her on the 1911 census with her husband and children living in Kings Cliffe, Northamptonshire, but can not find her on any census before this. I have found record of other Booths living in Oakham around the time of her birth and believe these to be Romany Gypsies, this will also back up what my mother always told me that Kezia was from Romany Gypsy background. I initialy simply want to find out who her parents were but any other infomation would be great, hope someone can help. Thank you.

(Posted on 2009-09-04 11:27:00 by Heidi North)
Hello there after being successful tracing my Great Grandmothers family the Clarkes from Stow in the Wold Morton in Marsh area im wondering if any of the readers can suggest a site or any books to read on the Smith Family from the Stow area as my Family married into theres in 1797 and in 1803.As the Clarkes in my family were originally Romani and married into the Archer family also known as Orchard im wondering if there is a link with the early Smith Romany family from that area? Any suggestions are much appreciated Many thanks all the best Duncan

(Posted on 2009-09-03 18:05:00 by Duncan McDonald)
salmon 2009.9.2 00:56

looking for help about my family lee . my grandfather name was william his wifes was ada lee nee boswell . they were married1882 bunbury cheshire .names of some of their children were wallace .thyrles . landa. florry .edgar .there could have been more. they moved around cheshire and north wales.cant wait to hear from my cousins . kushti bok willie lee

(Posted on 2009-09-02 12:56:00 by willie Lee)
Hi this is a message for Martin Cooper with reference to you query on 8 of august about Lavinia and Leonard Cooper, i am married to mark cooper who's great grandad and granny was leonard and lavinia, Marks dad Danny Cooper is Liberty Cooper's son...i was just wondering where you fit into the family.....email me jen4kidslater@aol.com

(Posted on 2009-09-01 13:11:00 by jenni cooper nee turner)
Hi I'm just starting out to try and find any info bout My Grandma Phoebe Davies, I was told that she was the last of our family to be born in a traveling caravan, she was born on Plumpton racecourse in Sussex arround 90 - 100 years ago, she had several brothers and sisters but I only know the name of one sister Amy Davies. if anyone has any knowlege or suggestions I would be very happy to hear them. thank you. Mandy

(Posted on 2009-09-01 08:06:00 by Mandy Kenward)
Hi

I wonder if anyone can help please.

I'm searching for information about my great grandmother. This is what I know:-

According to her marriage certificate - name Mary Alice Hoyles, born about 1874 and married William Beard in 1893 at St. Elphin's church, Warrington. Her father on the certificate is 'William Hoyles, deceased, a traveller. Her name, father's name and age don't match up on any of the censuses.

The first census I can find for her is 1901 and she is living in the Wigan area of Lancashire. Her birth place is given as Liverpool.

Her sister Kitie is listed as Kitie Oyles, born about 1880 in Widnes and is living with Mary Alice's family at this time. I have been told that Kitie was a 'hoochie coochie' dancer on the fair. This is the only trace I can find of Kitie.

According to my grandfather's birth certificate Mary Alice's surname was Hides, not Hoyles.

However I've been given the surname Hayes/Hays by another family member.

Mary Alice musn't have been able to read or write and her surname has been written by other people who've written it as it sounded to them.

I've also been told that the family came from South Wales and were related to fair people by the surname of Crooke.

I don't know if anyone can shed any light on this, or even give me advice of anywhere I might look for more information, but I'd be really grateful for anything at all.

Thank you

Elizabeth

(Posted on 2009-08-29 21:36:00 by Elizabeth Sidebotham)
Cant find: Phoeby Hoadley Roberts (my gran) b.1909 Godstone Kent. Daughter of Annie Bonwick who married Philip Chapman who changed his name to Roberts before they married. he was a Hawker, my gran was a Pedler.

There seems to be no marriage cert for Phoeby & my grandad Harold Fagence, my dad says maybe they were not married....could this be true even though she has her name as Fagence on her grave stone.?

Any ideas welcome

thanks.

(Posted on 2009-08-28 22:56:00 by sheila)
Dear Site owner,

Thank you so much for your reply regarding Fuchsia Smith/ Rogerson. Having drawn a blank until I can get to the local church registers I have continued with the other side of the family.

Joseph, their son b. 1912 married Martha Ellen Taylor in 1918 and her parents were Henry Taylor and Maria Price. I have researched several sites containing these names and think there may be a Welsh connection. Although I am still puzzled with the roots in Nantwich, I suppose I may find out one day.

I am not new to research, as I am a Post graduate sociology student. However, this is so difficult as I had one name, (my mother's) to begin with.

I have read lots about the culture and stories of various families and can't wait to be able to ask more about mine.

Therefore if you have any details or suggestions on tracking down the origins of Henry J Taylor and Maria Price, I would be most grateful.

I am finding it increasingly expensive to buy certificates and can't guarantee they are always the right ones.

If any body could suggest a geographical area for any of them at a particular time I would be most grateful. The task is made more difficult as I have to guess from the census at the moment.

Many thanks to anybody who may be able to help.

(Posted on 2009-08-28 21:20:00 by Gill)
Romany Marriages.

I need advice regarding Romany Marriages.

1)Are the marriages recognised by the Church or the Law?

2)Do the marriages fall under Non -Conformist records?

My Great Great Great Grandmother Mary Smith was a Romany who married a Non -Romany David Vaughan who was a non Romany.On the census records both Mary and David say they are married.Although on their daughter Celia/Cecilia marriage certificate there is a line through Fathers name and surname,Celia/Cecilia surname is Smith not Vaughan.

If anyone has an idea what this means please let me know.Also any info about Baptisms,Marraiges and deaths would be greatly appreciated

Sarah

(Posted on 2009-08-26 13:54:00 by sarahcate)
Hi everyone I am looking for help.Trying to track down Henry McAllister and Florence Haines. Cant find a marrage cert but they had a daughter Kathleen Mary McAllister born 1922 in Swadlincote,Derby I am told there is Romany blood but Henry was said to be a show man Can any one Help Jenny

(Posted on 2009-08-24 20:41:00 by Jennifer)
please can you tell me why i cant print any of the pictures. my husband (harry knight who's mum is amy lite) wanted me to down load or print off some of your great photoes but every tim i try i just get a blank green page.

regards and congratulations on your hard work.maureen knight

(Posted on 2009-08-22 15:54:00 by maureen knight)
Hi All

I cant find Bert and Edith Doe anywhere on the 1911 census. If anyone comes across them,please let me know. Edith was one of my great grandfather Albert Doe's sisters. I have been told on two occasions that they were known as Rogers or Rodgers and they ran away to get married. If anyone can help me ,I would be most gratefull.

Many thanks. Lesley Doe.

(Posted on 2009-08-21 09:11:00 by lesleyd)
Hi Gill have been having a look and cant as you say find any Fuchia but then she probably used a more normal name like Jane or Mary !!

in the 1911 census there is a Joseph Rogerson (HOUSEHOLD ROGERSON JOSEPH M 1897 14 Nantwich Cheshire)

and more people) but no Fuchia but will have a closer look hope to find something!!

(Posted on 2009-08-20 16:25:00 by siteowner)
Hi,

Although I have posted several times, thought I'd try again.

I am researching my grandparents who were Martha Ellen Taylor nee Pries/ or Price b. 1918 and Joseph Rogerson b. 1912 whose mothers maiden name was Smith.

I believe I have found Josephs parents but would like confirmation if anybody can help.

I have Joseph Rogerson and Fuchsia Smith who were married in 1913. Warrington.

I am unable to find Fuchsia on a census, birth or death record.

Does anybody know who she was and where she was born. I know the family were travellers and I believe from both sides.

I was the first generation not to be born in a caravan.

The family seemed to travel between Nantwich and Chester/ Wales, if this is any help.

Also Martha Ellen and Joseph jnr are buried in Nantwich. I thought maybe they had other family / relatives in the area.

Any help or suggestions greatfully received.

(Posted on 2009-08-19 23:11:00 by Gill)
Hi I am researching my husbands ancestry which has strong Romany connections. Any info would be gratefully received. My hubbys g grandad was Jeremiah Hedges his son was Walter who married Olive Upton both travelling families. There also seems to be a number of links to Navestock.

Many thanks

(Posted on 2009-08-19 15:16:00 by Diane Davies)
HI Sian Reynolds

I am a Doe,with links to the famalies you mentioned on the 16th.

Please get in touch with the site owner,who will pass on my e mail address. Look forward to hearing from you.

Regards Lesley Doe.

(Posted on 2009-08-18 08:02:00 by lesleyd)
Hi

I have been researching my family history and found that there were Romanies in it. I would like to know if anyone has any information about any Tegg families or Potter families that would have been traveling around Berkshire in the 1700's or 1800's.

This is like a needle in a haystack I know but it would be great if there was anyone out there who knew someone or something.

Hope to here from someone soon.

(Posted on 2009-08-17 19:00:00 by scrambles)
Hello,

I'm looking into my family tree on my mothers side (nee Wheeler) and would be interested in getting in touch with anyone who has links to the Wheeler, Doe and Pateman families of Thorney Hill, Christchurch. I'd be happy to share my findings and hopefully you could fill some gaps in my own research. Many thanks, Sian

(Posted on 2009-08-16 18:18:00 by sian reynolds)
hi

can anyone help me with a quire my 3x granfather was moses rawlings

two of he's daughters amelia and olive married in ashford in middlesex. in the month of july but diffrent years

could anyone tell me way they may haved travelled there from hampshire.

was there a meeting place in middlesex for gypies to meet up and was this the reason for marrages too take place.

moses also had a couple of children born in middlesex although he travelled and lived in hampshire

sonia.

(Posted on 2009-08-16 12:16:00 by sonia falcon)
I am trying to find out more about Henry McAllister ,a showman who married Florence Haines and they hAd a daughter Kathleen Mary McAllister 1922 Fair ground Midland RoadSwadlincote Derbyshire I would be grateful for any help

(Posted on 2009-08-14 23:37:00 by Jennifer)
Hi, Im looking for a John gray who was born in 1852, i would love to know if he,s in the gypsie romany geneology. Thankyou :-))

(Posted on 2009-08-14 20:02:00 by pip)
Hi Mauri Baldwin,

if you have any other details then i may be able to help you, i think i might know which family they could come from, but need more infomation, you can contact me at stevendoe@hotmail.com

regards stephen

(Posted on 2009-08-13 15:54:00 by Stephen doe)
could you please help

i am trying to trace my family tree but as you know us travellers wasnt the best for registering anything! i am looking for the parents of frank ernest rickman born circa 1900 married to violet brewer, kids frank,samuel,dennis,albert,violet,joan, too many to mention. also where can i get a proper book of romany language as my father married a gawja and we were forbidden to use the lingo.

please help! bobby rickman

(Posted on 2009-08-13 14:37:00 by robert rickman)
We are looking for the family of Cloggy Will Smith, who also travelled under the name of Eastwood or Doe. He had sons Bill Junior, Joe and Barton and a daughters Emma, Fanny who married a Harry Baldwin. Fannies eldest girl Lou married Ted Dixie of Mitcham Surrey.

Any information would be gratefully recieved.

(Posted on 2009-08-11 19:30:00 by Mauri Baldwin)
Hello Fran

Smith Family of Forest of Dean,Please contact me ,I believe my Great Great Grandmother Celia/Cecilia Dixon nee Smith is your Mary Ann Smith(who Married William Parker and who lived in Newport)sister.My Email addy is batsie2007@hotmail.co.uk.I look forward to hearing from you

Sarah

(Posted on 2009-08-11 09:01:00 by sarahcate)
I am researching my Great Great Granmother Celia /Cecilia Smith.Celia was born in the Forest Of Dean according to the 1911 census.Celia Lived in Caerleon,Newpoet Monmouthshire,Celia had a sister Mrs Parker.Celia married Isaiah Dixon of Caerleon.I would be interested to hear from Fran who is looking for Smith family in the Forest of Dean,I believe her Mary Ann Smith who married a Parker and lived in Newport is Celia Smith Sister.Anyone with information regarding either a Smith Family in Forest of Dean or Celia/Cecilia Smith,please get in contact.Celia was also a Romany Princess according to my grandmother.My Email address is batsie2007@hotmail.co.uk or send me a maessage via RomanyGenes .I will be checking the site daily.

Sarah

(Posted on 2009-08-11 08:54:00 by sarahcate)
Mary Smith

Mary Smith was the mother of Urania Lee, Gypsy Rose Lee. She is sometimes called Sarah "Pol" Lee or "Dark Sarah" and was Queen of the Devil's Dyke, Brighton. She must have been born about 1830. Does anyone know any information about her family? Who were her parents? Her brothers and sisters? Where was she born? For that matter when did she die, and can she be picked up on the census returns?

I'm investigating the idea that she had a sister Elizabeth who married Walter Harris but can't find any way to test this theory.

(Posted on 2009-08-10 23:09:00 by graeme)
Hello Angela, have tried to send you an email but dont know whether you have received or not. Just in case you havent its mitchfields@btinternet.com.

thanks John Mitchell

(Posted on 2009-08-10 09:04:00 by John Mitchell to Angela)
Just starting to trace my ancestors (i am from keates fathers side and penfold mothers side) and have been told the clubb tribe travelled from new forest to dover over 100 years ago. Both my parents are surviving and me and my brother shaun keates are living in kent my two sisters are in in london.

regards,

omi

(Posted on 2009-08-09 19:10:00 by omi)
dear site owner i see in your baptism records you have memebers of my family who have long passed which are leonard and lavinia cooper

my great great grandfather and grandmother and there children liberty, eli and louisa. im just wondering if you have anymore information on these people that you could email me or even a possible photogragh please email me with a reply thankyou

(Posted on 2009-08-08 10:20:00 by martin cooper)
Dear site owner,

I am trying to track Mariah Jones - she posted a message on 2007.23.12 - do you have a contact email for her.

Thankyou

shanesharpless.hotmail.co.uk

(Posted on 2009-08-07 22:11:00 by shanesharpless)
This is a messsage for Mariah Jones, I have only just joined Romany Genes. I have some information you may want to know, my family come from Croydon way but I live in Portsmouuth. The lady you refer to as Councey is Counselletti is my great great nan, and the lady Louenda is actually Lenda who was my great nans sister for more information email at shanesharpless@hotmail.co.uk

Mariah Jones 2007.12.23 01:14

My mother used to speak of her two gypsy aunts or perhaps they were her great aunts ( maternal ) their names were very unusual. Councey shortened from Counciletti ( not sure of the correct spelling!) and Louenda, again, I'm not sure of the spelling. They were of the Lee family, their surname was I think Lee: possibly lived in, or travelled around London/Surrey /Sussex coast areas. I'm uncertain of their ages but at a guess I'd say they were born between 1880 and 1900 .

My family are from the Croydon area. My mother also spoke of Smiths , Coopers, Penfolds, as being relatited in some way or other.

My Mother passed away over 20 years ago and I have no one left who would have any knowledge.

I look forward to any possible info. Mariah

(Posted on 2009-08-07 21:48:00 by shanesharpless)
Any of you folks in Australia interested in joining the ROMANI ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA my email is vk6kts@wia.org.au would love to hear from you.

Cheers

Kathi

(Posted on 2009-08-07 16:53:00 by Kathi (Australia))
To Colin Nelson

Re: Prichards and Lovell's. Which side of Aus are we looking at.

Cheers

Kathi.

(Posted on 2009-08-07 16:48:00 by Kathi (Australia))

Your Queries Page:- post your most wanted ancestor here !!

Due to so many queries remember to use the scroll arrow on the right hand side !!

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