If you are a NWKFHS member, please login, if not, please join today.

If you are a NWKFHS member, please login, if not, please join today.

Feb
25

Royal Arsenal Woolwich introduction video

 The video produced for the Family History Federation Really Useful Show last November (2023) has now been put on our web site. There is a button link on the Royal Arsenal Woolwich page. https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/data-sets/royal-arsenal-woolwich North West Kent Family History Society includes the area that was the Royal Arsenal Woolw...

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  130 Hits
Feb
25

Lets Talk Family History Zoom meeting 2.30 pm on 28th February 2024.

Chance for you to talk about anything to do with Family History that puzzles you or may help you solve your family line brick wall. Perhaps you wonder about the big FH question! How come I'm here and how did my ancestors survive, the Black Death 1350, the plagues of 1665, the Spanish Flue of the 20th century and Covid of the 21st century? 

  143 Hits
Feb
21

Attention Members

Regeneration Team in Bromley Council want your feedback regarding the Crofton Roman Villa.  See link on members home page for details

  109 Hits
Feb
17

Recording of the talk on the 14th February now online

 The talk was about the Sevenoaks to Swanley Railway and the Eynsford Viaduct's need for Labourers, their wages, living and working conditions all were mentioned by David Cufley in his talk. It was recorded and has now been put in the Members only area. The railway brickfield at Eynsford provided bricks for the Viaduct and other structure...

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  120 Hits
Jan
28

BDBW – I cannot find my ancestor in post 1837 records

On Wednesday 31st January 2024 at 7.30 the Breaking down brick walls workshop will cover the question that has been raised at a number of discussion sessions 'Why can't I find my ancestor in Post 1837 records when I know he was alive as I have other events in his life and when he dies'. The second case study during the workshop will be helping to l...

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  161 Hits
Jan
26

Three things you should want to consider – Really Useful Bulletin No 41

The Latest RUBulletin has two articles and an offer that may help your family history research. The Family History Bookshop (FHB) has obtained big savings on four DNA tests done by FamilyTreeDNA. AtDNA the autosomal test Family Finder. YDNA 37 marker test for men. Family Finder plus the 37 marker YDNA test MtDNA the mitochondrial test to trace your...

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  142 Hits
Dec
04

Segments are pure Gold - Really Useful Bulletin No 39

oson The Latest RUBulletin has an article by Martin McDowell that is part of 'Really Useful DNA Notes'. It explains how the segments of the Chromosome can be compared with your matches. Martin talks about uploading your results and the advantages of doing so with numerous companies. This is one of a series of periodic articles to help readers devel...

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  221 Hits
Nov
30

‘Discovering’ the TNA. 20th December Zoom 10.30 am.

 An additional zoom session put on at the request of one of our members. This extra discussion session will explore the National Archives web site and its search engine 'Discovery' Discovery holds more than 32 million descriptions of records held by The National Archives and more than 2,500 archives across the country. Over 9 million records a...

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  146 Hits
Dec
04

Through the mists of Time – Really Useful Bulletin No 39

 The Latest RUBulletin has an article by Nick Barratt entitled 'Through the Mists of Time' which  tells of the sources for searching your ancestors in pre 19th century England. Nick takes you through the English economy, the disadvantages of Latin, land and the manorial records and into local government. He shows what is online and availa...

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  262 Hits
Nov
30

Lets talk about Christmas Traditions. 13th December 2023, Zoom 7.30 pm

 This is a session when we can talk about our family Christmas Traditions. What did your family do before to prepare and what special activities did you have over the Christmas period. It's a chance to tell us about those special memories passed down in your family. Was your father's line doing anything different from your mother's line? Membe...

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  231 Hits
Oct
31

November eNewsletter

The society eNewsletter is now on the website please read it as it contains important information regarding the future of the society

  379 Hits
Oct
22

Really useful Bulletin 38 has article for SIG group.

The Really Useful Bulletin No 38, October 2023 has an interesting article 'BMDs in Scotland before 1855' by Emma Maxwell which will prove to be of interest to our Scottish Interest Group (SIG). As usual the RUB has a lead article of interest to our members. You can access the Bulletins by subscribing to do this go onto the main FHF w...

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  311 Hits
Oct
23

Whats the best time for you?

The Society has produced the 2024 program of Zoom talks, discussion groups, workshops and coffee meetings which will be published in each quarter Journal as well as the Enews.. Now that more Face to Face meetings and events are occuring a number of members have asked about changing times for the Zoom sessions. Please can you ema...

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  431 Hits
Oct
10

Ratcatchers zoom talk 11 October at 7.30 pm

As requested at a discussion group meeting I'm putting out this aide memoir for this talk which was previously given to the Society 7 years ago. It has changed and been extended by further research. It was requested by the previous workshop coordinator and Trustee Carolyn Barclay. A talk on the 19th century profession of ratcatchers using Enfield a...

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  355 Hits
Sep
24

What did your ancestors earn?

Do you know the wages your ancestor earned and how many hours did they need to work to get these wages? Two books that may give you answers to these questions are:- 1) The Economy of Kent 1640-1914 edited by Alan Armstrong as part of the Kent History project published jointly by the Boydell Press and the Kent County Council in 1995. ISSN 1352805X. ...

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  341 Hits
Sep
24

Do you have a burning question?

There are moments when you have a burning question or you just want to share a family history fact. These can be voiced at any of the discussion groups held every Wednesday. The next session with an open agenda is the 'Lets talk family history' on the 27 September when any subject can be discussed. Sometimes voicing a family history query the act o...

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  365 Hits
Sep
24

All you need to know about DNA

 The FHF has issued the latest Bulletin No 37 September 2023 with two articles about using the four types of DNA tests and their results to help prove and or disprove family history documentary research. Go to https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/ and click on the banner heading for the 'Bulletin' and don't be put off because it says subscr...

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  324 Hits
Aug
27

Tyler not only a surname.

Tyler is usually used for someone who tiles a roof. It was also 'tiler' which not only is the person who covers building roofs with burnt clay tiles but also a tile layer or a tile maker. The Penguin Dictionary of surnames (1979) says it's chiefly a Leicestershire and Lincolnshire surname. Sir William Addison in his book 'Understanding English Surn...

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  327 Hits
Aug
27

What’s a “Cadre”

The members of the cataloguing team were looking for a collective name for themselves as a group of people.  In our mind the Cataloguing Cadre is a small group of people specially trained to carry out a particular purpose, which in this case was cataloguing the Society Library books.  They are the 'Fundi' of cataloguing our books. Fundi i...

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  344 Hits
Aug
27

Standing in Granny’s footsteps.

Have you ever visited a place and stood on the same spot as one of your ancestors. You look around yourself and either its as they would have seen it or as in my case its now totally disfigured. Three generations of my family were costermongers/fishmongers on Beresford Square, Woolwich. Recently I visited Woolwich and from memory and old photograph...

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  374 Hits
Aug
27

Pip, Squeak and Wilfred and one of your family ancestors

Three of the WW! British campaign medals, the 1914-15 Star, British War Medal and the Victory Medal are affectionately known as Pip, Squeak and Wilfred. These medals were primarily awarded to the Old Contemptibles members of the British Expeditionary Force (B.E.F.). and by convention all three medals are worn together and in the same order from lef...

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  397 Hits
Aug
27

Who was Tommy Atkins?

TOMMY ATKINS In 1815 a War Office publication showing how the Soldier's Pocket Book should be filled out gave as its example one Private Thomas Atkins, No. 6 Troop, 6th Dragoons. Atkins became a sergeant in the 1837 version, and was now able to sign his name rather than merely make his mark. By the 18805 the expression 'Tommy Atkins' was in wide use ...

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  404 Hits
Aug
27

Were Mutt and Jeff in your family?

"Mutt and Jeff" Among your family heirlooms is there the two WW1 British campaign medals commonly found and nicknamed Mutt and Jeff: They are the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. When only the British War Medal and Victory Medal are on display together they are sometimes known as "Mutt and Jeff". 

  357 Hits
Aug
27

Zoom Session discussion Migration and other...

The 5th July discussion zoom 'Migration' session went on till 12.40 and ranged from the 20 min presentation that was recorded to other topics:- Occupations and how did people know there were jobs to go to. Word of mouth, Newspapers, trade links, parish correspondence. Religion and its prosecution forcing people to leave their native area to safer p...

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  448 Hits
Aug
27

Missing from Britain? Migration of Mormons

The Really Useful Bulletine No 34 June 2023 has a fascinating article 'When the Saints go marching in' by Ian Waller on the Mormons and the emigration of their British Church members. Predominately the British and Scandinavians migrants were among the 65,000 early church members who travelled across America to finally settle in Salt Lake City. The ...

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  353 Hits
Aug
26

DID YOU KNOW?

The society now has 25 recorded talks and 49 recorded workshop videos which members can view at anytime. A wide variety of subjects are covered on family research why not have a look to see what could help your research. You can find them on our website under RESOURCES / Zoom Talk or Zoom Workshops

  367 Hits
Aug
16

Every family has them …

As we were closing the DNA discussion Zoom meeting today (16-8-2023) a number of members asked about NPEs (Non parental events) to be discussed not only as a DNA subject but also within the normal family history research. David mentioned the article in the Journal Vol 16 No 2 page 77-78 which is available on the web site in the MOA. There is also a...

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  438 Hits
Aug
15

Mid August Society eNews on the website

To see the Mid August eNews Click HERE

  378 Hits
Aug
13

Sevenoaks August newsletter on the website

To see the Sevenoaks newsletter CLICK HERE 

  432 Hits
Aug
06

Breaking Down Brickwalls Workshop 9 August 2023.

 This Zoom BDBW Workshop will have three case studies. John Moore's family, John Shaw's family and 'Windycroft' and its occupiers missing from the 1939 register. The case studies will be recorded for the MOA on the web site. John Moore's family is a modern case of a person still living although the internet says she's dead. John Shaws family a...

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  462 Hits
Aug
01

August society newsletter on the website

Click HERE  to see the newsletter

  440 Hits
Jul
13

Kismet and Serendipity are important parts of family research

On Wednesday (12 July 2023) the workshop was on Visitations and Hatchments; now available in the members only area of our web site. At a talk by Celia Heritage entitled 'Above and below: exploring a pre-reformation church and churchyard' she showed a picture by the Artist Samuel Prout 1738-1852. The name of the church was not given but the interest...

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  379 Hits
Jul
23

Mid July Society eNewsletter on the Website

Click HERE to view Mid July eNewsletter  

  514 Hits
Jun
15

Mid June Society eNewsletter on the website

Click HERE to view Mid June eNewsletter 

  454 Hits
Jun
07

Enquiry on Royal Arsenal Woolwich Foundry and proof marks.

A visitor to our web site is doing research and asked "I wonder if you can point me in the direction of records for Woolwich Arsenal for the 1700s please. A friend in the USA has a cannon which was on the HMS St Lawrence and then Diana in 1775... and we are trying to trace it back as to when it was made and despatched to the ships off Boston". Than...

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  596 Hits
Jun
06

Sevenoaks June newsletter on the website

 Click HERE to view the Sevenoaks Newsletter

  425 Hits
Jun
01

Society eNewsletter for June on the website

Click HERE to view June eNewletter 

  407 Hits
May
30

Dartford June newsletter on the website

Click HERE to view the Dartford June newsletter

  422 Hits
May
16

Mid-May eNewsletter added to the website

Click HERE to see Mid May eNewsletter 

  431 Hits
May
13

Sevenoaks May newsletter on the website

Click HERE to view Sevenoaks May newsletter 

  451 Hits
May
11

How to Draw a Pedigree Chart

Click HERE to see new workshop video  How to Draw a Pedigree Chart lead by David Cufley

  438 Hits
May
05

New workshop video Apprentices

Discussion group on Apprentices run by David Cufley.  Video now on website Click HERE

  467 Hits
May
04

Library catalogues have been updated.

The cataloguing group of volunteers know as the Cadre have been hard at work and the new catalogues have been updated. Check the Library page and the list of catalogues available for the stock of books, microfiche, pictures and postcards. If your ancestor was found outside Kent look at our Strays Index for people who were born in Kent but have been...

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  887 Hits
Apr
29

The May Society Newsletter on the website

Click HERE to view the newsletter 

  456 Hits
Apr
27

Basic Excel Workshop is now on the Website

David Cufley's workshop on Basic Excel is now available to view on the website. Click HERE

  540 Hits
Apr
24

Dartford's May newsletter on the website

To see the Dartford May newsletter Click HERE

  478 Hits
Apr
15

DNA Discussion Group 17th May 2023

 This session in addition to the normal for those wanting to discuss particular aspects of DNA research Laura will be showing how you can group your DNA Matches to represent your four grandparent lines. This may help you target which of your DNA Matches might help you understand a particular branch of your tree. Maybe this could provide a clue...

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  553 Hits
Apr
16

Mid-April Society newsletter on the website

To see newsletter Click HERE

  463 Hits
Apr
14

Breaking down brick walls workshop

New workshop by David Cufley added to the website Click HERE to view

  467 Hits
Apr
07

The Myth about Breaking down Brick walls, 12 April 2023.

 The myth is that attendees don't need to submit their brickwall. So why don't you attend this workshop to learn about how to solve research queries and methods of research others use. Make sure you have booked to get the Zoom link. Contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk.

  633 Hits
Apr
06

Sevenoaks April newsletter on the website

To see the Sevenoaks April Newsletter Click HERE

  468 Hits
Apr
01

Change to Migration Zoom Discussion Group meeting on 5th April

Due to unforeseen circumstances the planned discussion on Migration due on 5th April has had to be changed to an open discussion. Ann will now lead a general discussion on any family history subject the attendees want to raise. So bring your research queries and gain from the experience of other members. The Migration session is now planned for the...

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  528 Hits
Mar
31

April eNewsletter on the website

The April Society eNewsletter now on the website to view Click HERE

  532 Hits
Mar
29

Look what you missed.

The 'come and talk FH' zoom today (29-3-2023) had topics that varied from the usual Zoom talks getting to know you pre-chat, RAW people with changing names, Migration into Woolwich, Plaistow Bike shop, Hobbs, Wireman, assisted passage in 17th c, drawing up time lines, 1780 Clerkenwell records, How DNA could show up on matches when there was possibl...

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  560 Hits
Mar
28

Basic Excel Workshop 26 April 2023.

During one discussion session members asked for a repeat of the 'Basic Excel' Workshop so they can understand how it can be used for family history research. Microsoft 'Excel' is a spread sheet program that is a useful tool for organizing and researching your family history. If you want a method for organising your records or trying to break d...

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  520 Hits
Mar
27

Dartford April Newsletter on the website

 To View the Dartford April newsletter Click HERE

  438 Hits
Mar
22

‘Endogamy’ a word from todays DNA discussion group.

At todays (22-3-2023) DNA discussion group the chance of your lineage having two people on both the maternal line and paternal line was considered as likely where they had come from a 'tribe', 'clan' or a small community. Endogamy means marriage between one's own tribe or similar unit. An example is a brother and sister marrying a sister and b...

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  606 Hits
Mar
22

Proposed subjects for future Discussion Groups.

 Our Discussion group leader Ann asked for subjects for the next sessions. She has received and agreed the following subjects for discussion for the next three months. 5th April...... Migration. 3rd May....... Apprenticeships 7th June...... What record types have we been surprised to find and how effective have they been? Out of one session me...

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  546 Hits
Mar
16

A new video workshop added to the website

New workshop "Drawing Trees & Charts by Hand " added to website Click HERE to view

  468 Hits
Mar
14

Mid-March Society newsletter on the website

CLICK HERE to see Mid-March newsletter

  527 Hits
Mar
09

Sevenoaks March newsletter online

CLICK HERE to see the Sevenoaks newsletter

  538 Hits
Mar
03

March Society newsletter is now on the website

CLICK HERE to see March newsletter 

  571 Hits
Mar
03

New workshop video

CLICK HERE To see "BACKING UP WHY WHERE & HOW" By Dominic Wilson

  594 Hits
Feb
17

The FHF Really Useful Bulletin No 30 now available.

If you have not heard about the Family History Federations free 'Really Useful Bulletin' then take a look at the latest edition. This edition has a fantastic article on Postcards by Helen Baggott. Helen tells of her motivation to research the family that sent/received the postcard and their background. It brings a new source from which if we are lu...

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  607 Hits
Feb
16

Creating Family Trees from GEDCOM files

Latest video workshop added on website "Creating Family Trees form GEDCOM  files" a workshop by David Cufley. Click RESOUCES on top menu then ZOOM WORKSHOP VIDEOS

  495 Hits
Feb
14

Mid-February newsletter

The Mid-February Society newsletter is now on the website see below Download PDF File Here

  500 Hits
Feb
09

Sevenoaks Branch meeting this Saturday 11th February

 Don't miss Saturday's meeting for a talk on DNA for Family Historians by Dr Geoff Swinfield  He has lectured widely on all aspects of genealogy, its sources, and research techniques including the use and application of DNA testing to Genetic Genealogy.

  470 Hits
Feb
01

February Society newsletter

The February edition of the society newsletter has been added to the website 

  588 Hits
Jan
19

New workshop added to the website

New workshop added to website " What makes a good Family Tree" by David Cufley Find it under Resources tab on home page then Zoom workshop videos

  563 Hits
Jan
16

What makes a good family tree?

 The question asked at discussion group meetings answered on the 18th Jan at 19.30 to 21.30 hrs. A Workshop showing and explaining about recording your family History on a family tree. This workshop will cover both family trees and pedigree charts with other formats a family historian can use to record their research. A good starting point for...

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  641 Hits
Jan
16

Mid-Jan eNewsletter is now on the website

See the latest society information and details of the next ZOOM Talk: A Grandmother's Legacy with Jenny Mallin on the 26th of January from 7.30 pm to 9 pm

  593 Hits
Jan
11

Sevenoaks January Newsletter on the website

14 JANUARY 2023 Speaker PETE ALLEN talk entitled "Oh No It Isn't! A History of Pantomime"  And what is it really like to play the back end of a Pantomime Cow? and the answer to whether something really is behind you. Pete works extensively as a professional theatre director and filmmaker. 

  545 Hits
Jan
06

Dartford newsletter for 7th January

The newsletter for 7th January Dartford meeting is on the website. The talk 'Tracing Your Ancestors During Lockdown' is by Clare Walker a former journalist, author & pilot. Clare's presentations are highly visual, using rarely seen historical footage, photos & fascinating anecdotes & are based on in-depth interv...

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  554 Hits
Jan
01

January 2023 Society newsletter on the website

Happy 2023 to everyone see the January Society newsletter on the website

  600 Hits
Dec
30

Journal Index updated today.

The index to all our journals are now available and includes the latest issue December 2022 Vol 16 No 4. See web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/community/nwkfhs-quarterly-back-journals/about-our-quarterly-back-journals which allows you to do a word search to find if your family or subject of interest has been published in an article....

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  604 Hits
Dec
28

Latest Library Catalogue on line.

After the Cataloguing Cadre finished their session before Christmas they had brought the master book catalogue up to date. 263 Pages listing 5502 books and maps in the catalogue. All the latest donations have now been entered and you can see or download the catalogue from https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/library-catalogues. M...

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  630 Hits
Dec
24

1851 Census indexes now completed and on the web site

The paper publications of the 1851 Census produced by the Society in the 1990s have now been digitally converted and are now available on our web site. The Introductions and street indexes are available on the public pages https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/data-sets/1851-census-index. The Names indexes are available to members after the...

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  653 Hits
Dec
21

The FHF Really Useful Bulletin No 28 available today.

 If you have not heard about the Family History Federations free 'Really Useful Bulletin' then take a look at the latest edition. Among the articles are two that you might find interesting. Most family historians will have used one of Jeremy Gibson's guides. Jeremy died on the 28th October 2022 and an appreciation by Colin Chapman one of ...

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  687 Hits
Dec
21

1851 Census Indexes updated on our web site.

We have now added or updated the Introductions, Streets Index and Name indexes to the 1851 Census page resources. Bromley does not have a Street Index but the others Dartford, Deptford, Greenwich and Lewisham do.  The introductions should be compulsory reading for family historians interested in these local census areas. These indexes were pub...

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  677 Hits
Dec
12

The Heralds Visitation Workshop is CANCELLED.

We are sorry but this workshop has been cancelled. If you want to attend it, it is being run again on the 12th July 2023. However, if there is sufficient demand contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk and ask if it can be run earlier. If there is another subject that you want to have featured in a workshop or if you want research advice it can be do...

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  671 Hits
Dec
04

Heralds' Visitations Workshop Wednesday 14 December 2.30 pm

This workshop will look at the Heralds Visitations which were collected and compiled from the 16th century. From 1530 at intervals of approx. 30 years the Heralds made tours of the country to examine the claims to have arms and had the right to destroy all unlawful arms and crests. The visitations continued until c1686. Although some are suspect ma...

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  591 Hits
Dec
08

A Mystery Workshop by David Cufley

Another useful workshop added to the website and if you have ever wondered if you are Royalty this is the one to see.  On the home page top menu under "Resources" click on "Zoom Workshop videos"

  571 Hits
Dec
04

A Mystery Workshop Wednesday 7th December 7.30 pm

Have you found details of your family that are a total mystery? Do you believe we are all related to Royalty? Is there a place named after an ancestor? Just a few mysteries that crop up in family history research A Mystery Workshop with David Cufley. Please log in from 7.15 pm for the 7.30 pm start. 

  648 Hits
Dec
03

Updated Surname Interests

The Surnames interest list has been updated with more names tonight (3-12-2022).. If you are a member of the Society and would like your surname interests added to these web pages, please download the Interests Submission Form (see button link on https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/members-interests/instruction-page). Complete all details and eithe...

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  637 Hits
Dec
01

December Society newsletter online

The December Society newsletter is online. On the home page go to Community on the top menu then click newsletters

  631 Hits
Nov
30

Defibrillator fitted to the Library at Summerhouse Drive available 24/7/365.

The vast majority of the defibrillators near Joydens Wood are not available 24/7/365 and have restrictions placed upon their use. This will have a dramatic effect possibly fatally on a person if they have a heart attack and there is a delay in accessing a defibrillator. Barry and Liz have already obtained permission from KCC Library and the KCC Est...

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  679 Hits
Nov
30

Latest Members Interests

Downloaded the Surname, Subject and Place members interests to the web site today. All three interests are up to date as the December 2022 Journal. If you are a member of the Society and would like your surname interests added to these web pages, please download the Interests Submission Form (see button link on https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/m...

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  637 Hits
Nov
22

Recorded Talks and Workshops

We now have 25 recorded talks and 34 recorded workshops for members to view at their leisure. Three new ones were added today. Take a look at the variety of relevant subjects covered, all planned to assist you in your family research.

  633 Hits
Nov
18

New workshop Video

Example 8 Angus Gunn workshop breaking down brick walls now on MOA of website

  725 Hits
Nov
14

Mid-November newsletter

Mid-November Society newsletter now available on website

  628 Hits
Nov
05

New Promo Video

The Society part of the new Really Useful Show being run by the Family History Federation has produced a new Promo Video. You can viw it before the show by going to the home page and on the Member Benefits banner is a link called "Who we are video". You can also view the video by using the 'about' menu and the 'Promo Video' link. We hope you enjoy ...

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  684 Hits
Nov
01

Society November newsletter

 Society November newsletter now available on website

  708 Hits
Oct
26

Video 'Who we are?'

The promotional video prepared for the Really Useful Show being held on the 11th and 12 November by the Family History Federation is available on our home page under the Benefits banner.  Have a view and see what good value £10 annual membership gives you. If you join now your membership will run until 31st december 2023. Our thanks go to...

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  660 Hits
Oct
17

Mid October Society eNewsletter now on website

 Go to Community tab on top menu of website and pick Newsletters to see the latest editions

  679 Hits
Sep
13

Yes, truly there is only 2 Days to vote for your Society Committee.

May we stress that the Society belongs to the members and that this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting#. The September Journal had the CVs of all the candidates so you know who was running the Society for you. 

  617 Hits
Sep
13

Don’t lose the opportunity to vote for your Society Committee, it’s the last day.

The Society belongs to you the members and that this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting#. The September Journal had the CVs of all the candidates so you know who was running the Society for you. 

  606 Hits
Sep
13

We know it’s boring but there are only 3 Days to vote for your Society Committee.

We would like to stress that the Society belongs to you the members and that this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting#. Want to know who is running your Society see the CVs of all the candidates that was included in the September Journal.&n...

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  670 Hits
Sep
13

Really there is only 4 Days to vote for your Society Committee.

The Society belongs to the members and this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting#. The September Journal had the CVs of all the candidates so you know who was running the Society for you. 

  634 Hits
Oct
10

What is proof of Fact?

The research aid 'What is proof of Fact' was updated today following a workshop 'Errors Lies and Misinformation' by our President David Cufley. The research aid diagrams and charts are available on our web site under the resources menu. The page address is https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/research/research-aid-diagrams-charts. This is only ...

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  684 Hits
Sep
13

Counting down, its only 5 Days to vote for your Society Committee.

We would like to stress that the Society belongs to the members and that this gives them an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting#. Know who you are voting for see the CVs of all the candidates which was included in the September Journal. 

  648 Hits
Oct
08

Mapping Family Movements workshop

Mapping Family Movements workshop by David Cufley on 5th October added to Zoom workshop page 

  640 Hits
Sep
13

Only 6 Days to vote for your Society Committee.

You can take a horse to water but you cannot make him drink. It's the same for asking you to vote for your Society Committee. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting# Don't forget the Society belongs to you the members and that this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. A CV of all the candi...

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  659 Hits
Sep
13

Only 1 week to vote for your Society Committee.

Please don't forget to vote for our Society Committee who run the Society for you and the other members. This is an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting# Going to the Sevenoaks meeting tomorrow why not take your voting form and give it to Jim Murchie and save the ...

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  608 Hits
Oct
03

Library Master Catalogue updated 2nd Oct 2022

The master Catalogue has been updated. We were asked about the search facility in the pdf data files. In windows use your control key and the 'F' Key pressed at the same time, its easy to remember F=Find. [ctrl+f pressed together] The question was raised when a member asked about Horton Kirby. If you Ctrl +F and in the search box that pops up type ...

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  701 Hits
Oct
01

Newsletter for Sevenoaks meeting

The newsletter for the Sevenoaks meeting on the 8th of October now on the website Click community on home page top menu then down to newsletters

  691 Hits
Sep
30

October society eNewsletter now on website

Go to Community tab on top menu of website and pick Newsletters to see the latest editions 

  653 Hits
Sep
26

Variations on family expressions

In a discussion today we were talking about expressions used in the family that were variations on the normal public and familiar versions. Try out these three variations. A problem shared is a problem doubled. Give a man enough rope and he will hang you. I'm not paranoid. I'm mononoid, there's only one person to distrust but nobody will tell ...

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  745 Hits
Sep
13

Only 4 weeks to vote for your Society Committee.

As a member of our great Society the AGM voting gives you the chance to support our Society Committee and an excellent opportunity to have your say in its management. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting# Going to the Dartford meeting on the 1st October why not take your voting form and give it to Jim Murchie and save...

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  656 Hits
Sep
20

Births & Deaths Registration Handout

 Handout for Births & Deaths Registration talk held on 15th September 2022 added to Zoom Talk page of website

  705 Hits
Sep
18

Who we are

The Family History Federation Really Useful Bulletin 25: September 2022 has an article about North West Kent FHS. It is really worth reading. If you don't subscribe to the Federation Bulletin then you can subscribe or read a copy at https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/resources-newsletter It will also help to keep you up to date with what's hap...

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  736 Hits
Sep
16

Why can you not find a birth registration?

At the talk by Anthony Marr on the 15th September he was asked this question. Apart from a lack of registration in the 19th century he made a suggestion that is obvious when you think deeply about it. He said that perhaps the child was registered with a surname that was one that they did not use in their life time. Why could this be? Our thoughts a...

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  710 Hits
Sep
13

Only 1 month to vote for your Society Committee.

If you are a member of our great Society don't to forget to vote for its officers before the 14th October. Sign in and go to the web page https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting# Don't forget the Society belongs to you the members and that this gives you an excellent opportunity to have a say in its management. A CV of all the candidates was included ...

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  682 Hits
Aug
29

Members Interest updated 1st September

The three members interests 'Surname', 'Subject' and 'Place' have been updated today. If you are a member then you can submit your interests and perhaps link up with another member to solve your mutual family, place or subject interests. To have your details added to our web site send them to members.interest@nwkfhs.org.uk with your name and m...

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  735 Hits
Aug
31

Your Journal may be held up by the postal strike.

Fear not, is the postal strike delaying your September Journal? Members can read their journal on line at https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/volume-16  One benefit of the MOA (members only area) is that your Journal copy is available online anytime of the day or night..  On holiday and need something to read, Have a look at some back edi...

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  765 Hits
Aug
29

Breaking Down Brick Walls Workshop 31 August

Don't forget that the advice at the BDBW workshops can help everyone. So come and hear how we try to solve the 'brick walls' that other members have encountered. Having the chance to discuss the research problems we all encounter may help you solve your 'brick wall' Email workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk to request the link to join us on th...

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  764 Hits
Aug
27

Please vote for the Society Committee - AGM 2022.

You will have received your September Journal and know its time to vote for the management committee of the Society. These are all Volunteers who give of their time to organise and make the Society work. Please support them. Please take the time to vote either by Post or digitally. It only takes a few minutes. The closing date is the 14 Octobe...

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  760 Hits
Aug
19

Create a One Street Name Study

 Gill Thomas gave a talk at Dartford branch meeting on the 6th August on Creating a One Street Study. Go to 'Resources' on top menu and 'Reserch' then click on 'Workshop Handouts' for useful guide

  676 Hits
Aug
18

I’m sure I saw that in NWKFHS Journal!

Do you have the thought that you have seen an article in NWKFHS Journal but don't know when? Did you realise all the back journals for not only NWKFHS but also Tonbridge Wells FHS are on the web site in the MOA. There is also an easy to use search facility to find the article you want. Use the 'Community' menu and click on 'Quarterly and Back Journ...

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  774 Hits
Aug
18

Online Articles on some ancestors.

Have you found your ancestors among these prominent families from Dartford? Phil Taylor one of our members has written a series of articles on these Dartford people. If you want a short article on your ancestor and have not written it and submitted it to our Journal perhaps this is where it could be lodged so they will not be forgotten. See how Phi...

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  742 Hits
Aug
13

Stray BMD Certificates listing now on the web site.

Have you ever purchased a certificate only to discover it is not of your family and does not add to your family tree? Members who have certificates that they don't want have donated them to the Library. These certificates are on the Library open shelves under the IDLocation reference BGR0023 in three volumes. We have listed all these certifica...

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  793 Hits
Aug
13

The Strays index is now on the web site

The Strays' Index was an inititive by the FFHS back in the pre-2000 years. NWKFHS slips have sat in our library unused since Audrey Rainer stopped being the Strays Co-ordinator. When we were clearing out the cupboards a few months ago the strays were unearthed and it was decided that the slips should be indexed into a digital database. Strays are r...

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  980 Hits
Aug
10

How many books has NWKFHS got in its library?

Do you want to know what is in the Society library? You can go to the Society Library page and there is a button to take you to the Master Catalogue that has been updated on 9th August 2022. There is also a page that gives all the resources in the library, not only the Master Catalogue but also:- Stray Birth Certificates Stray Marriage Certificates...

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  798 Hits
Aug
01

The Royal Arsenal Woolwich Workshop 3rd August 2022

Please note the workshop starts at 2.30 pm (14.30 hrs) and NOT at 10.30 am. Sorry for the misunderstanding. To book a place in this workshop contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk. If you cannot attend this workshop but would like it re-run please contact the workshop coordinator to ask if it can be run on another day at perhaps another time. All w...

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  1014 Hits
Jul
28

Zoom link glitches 28th July 2022

You will know by now that tonight we had a problem with members signing onto the talk. The problem appears to be a change and update by Zoom a couple of days ago. It now appears that unless you have the FREE 'Basic' licence or better on your computer you will have problems joining the meeting whether you use the link or you use the ID and passcode....

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  981 Hits
Jul
21

How good a researcher are you?

Bring your research talents and know how to our 'People' and 'Place' Workshop on the 3rd August 2022. Ray Fordham left a number of documents and databases to the Society that he had rescued from the Royal Arsenal Woolwich when it closed. Among the files are WW2 lists of names without source or exact date, but they give addresses within the Arsenal ...

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  844 Hits
Jul
21

Late Ray Fordham expert on Royal Arsenal Woolwich.

 Ray Fordham worked at the RAW when it closed and among the documents and photographs that were being thrown away he saved some of those that related to local history and family history. He had over his retirement been recording the details into a number of databases, some of which are already on our web site. Now the Society has been given th...

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  957 Hits
Jul
14

Really Useful Bulletin No 23 out now.

The Federation have issued the latest Really Useful Buletin full of Really Useful sources and advice. Robin McConnell gives us 'Tracing your family history with the whole family' Shropshire FHS explain the advantages of Zoom and how it changed their Society. The Beresford (ONS) Family Society gathering held in May 2022. Dorset FHS follows NWKFHS an...

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  880 Hits
Jul
13

The July Sevenoaks newsletter is now on the website.

The 14th of July newsletter for Sevenoaks meeting is now available on the website

  792 Hits
Jul
05

Brick Walls are not a hurdle but a learning experience

At the recent 'Breaking down brick walls' workshop a member said that she thought you had to submit a research problem to attend. Not so.The workshops are designed to explain sources and how you can organise your research to help find that elusive ancestor. Other members' 'brickwalls' can be of help to other family historians as the think...

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  933 Hits
Jul
01

New Workshop video available Example 5 Alexander Duff

New workshop video added breaking down brickwalls Example 5 Alexander Duff Calico printer 

  837 Hits
Jun
30

Example 6 Breaking down brick walls "My Incredible Hulkes Mystery"

New workshop video added  Example 6 "My Incredible Hulkes Mystery"

  833 Hits
Jun
23

New recorded talk only available until 21 st July

Catching up with Family Search website Sharon Hintze 

  824 Hits
Jun
15

Families remembered in bricks

Emma Smith has created an art installation at the Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, Hampshire to remember all those people that were employed in the brickmaking industry. On the 31st May the mayor of Fareham opened the exhibition to the public. The installation consists of thousands of brickettes each made by hand by Emma with the initials of a person t...

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  990 Hits
Jun
13

Sevenoaks Railway Camps

In 2016 this blog was written but again cropped up recently when discussing Eynsford Viaduct. Its amazing what areas family historians venture when ancestor hunting. One of our members asked about the temporary camps set up to house the navvies working on the railway in the Sevenoaks area. The answer to the query is given in 'Sevenoaks, an his...

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  1050 Hits
Jun
08

1851 Census finding aid update.

If you have been waiting for the update to the names indexes then today is your day. We are still recovering these indexes but the latest introduction notes and surname index have been added in the MOA (members only area) Enjoy the work of our 1990s Census team. 

  927 Hits
Jun
08

Great Storm of 1703 by Daniel Defoe.

The Federation's Bulletine available to all family historians that subscribers see https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/. The June edition contains an article'The Great Storm of 1703' by Wayne Shepherd. Our area of South East London and North West Kent was damaged. Daniel Defoe mentions that part of the wall to Greenwich Park having been blown d...

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  897 Hits
Jun
04

STRAYS INDEX.

During the recent Society Library cataloguing exercise we have found an old Strays slip index (2002). We are trying to get it digitalized for the use of members. We anticipate it may contain over 7000 entries when completed. WHAT IS A STRAY? A stray is a recorded event in which a person is described in the record as being from, or connected with, a...

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  1022 Hits
Jun
03

1851 Census finding aid.

1851 Census is most important, as it was the first census to give the birth place of one's ancestors. NWKFHS created surname indexes in the 1980s and 1990s when there were no commercial subscription online data providers. While these indexes do not include all the schedule data, they are a finding aid using the piece number with folio number of the...

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  955 Hits
May
18

Bricks and Brickmaking

New recorded workshop talk to Essex FHS by David Cufley on Brickmaking now available to view on Workshops page.

  924 Hits
May
05

Workshop talk on Fluctuated Population Numbers updated

 Workshop handouts and  talk 'Fluctuated Population Numbers' by David Cufley on 4th May has been updated

  925 Hits
May
03

Society May eNewsletter available

May 2022 eNewsletter is now available on the website

  896 Hits
May
01

Really Useful Bulletin for Family Historians

tinFree bulletin produced by the Family History Federation which provides lead articles on different aspects of family history research. The latest edition No 20 April 2022 features School Records. To subscribe to the RUBulletin go to the federation's web site at https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/resources-newsletter North West Kent Family Hi...

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  1141 Hits
Apr
22

Family History Frustrations talk by Ian Waller 21st April 2022

Ian Waller's talk Family History Frustrations now on website to view log in as member and go to Zoom Talk page

  960 Hits
Apr
14

Flickr workshop recording now in MOA.

Walter Eves has granted us permission to record his presentation. It is now on the MOA area for members to catch up and learn about Flickr and how it can assist with our family history research by holding documents and photographs that are not in the archives. 

  981 Hits
Apr
14

Trade Sources presentation recording now in MOA.

David Cufley has granted us permission to record his presentation. It is now on the MOA area for members to catch up and learn about Trade and Occupation sources and how they can assist with our family history research by suggesting documents and photographs that are in the archives and record offices. One of the Trade Union sources that has c...

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  1011 Hits
Apr
14

Breaking down brick walls’ workshop recording now in MOA.

The two exercises undertaken at the 23 March workshop have been recorded and are now available on the MOA. The first exercise covering the Barnett family of Tunbridge Wells and Devon connections with Coast guards is on the MOA area for members to catch up and learn about possible research source that could help find the true place of birth George B...

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  925 Hits
Apr
11

Flickr and NWKFHS workshop.

Flickr is a document and photo sharing and hosting service that can be a gold mine for family historians. NWKFHS has had a presence on Flickr since 2009 and Walter Eves one of our Vice Presidents will be leading a workshop on Wednesday 13 April at 10.30 am. He will explain the documents and photographs we have and how they can add to your family hi...

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  1125 Hits
Apr
10

Online Probate Search Service

A member wrote to HMCTS (Her Majesty's Courts and Tribune Service) Wills Help desk because of a problem obtaining a Will. The member said and asked, I was searching for GRACE WINIFRED PAILTHORPE who died 19 July 1971 Ninfield, Sussex. The Probate index on Ancestry has the entry but on the www.gov.uk/search-will-probate it returns 'no record found' ...

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  990 Hits
Apr
10

Record-breaking Victorian weather

The intriguing title spotted when a member checked out the day's weather recently. Following the Met Office archives links to view the historic rainfall data for many parts of the UK and, at a local level, was data for Welling, Bexleyheath, Kent, in many of the years of Queen Victoria's reign. In 1861, these were collected by Henry Septimus Hyde Wo...

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  978 Hits
Apr
01

Lost access to MOA

Its the 1st April and its not a joke when you lose access to the MOA (members only area). No longer can you access the databases, indexes, back journals and the video recordings of the talks and workshops. Whats the solution? Pay your £10 subscription and all will be well again. 

  982 Hits
Mar
21

Parish Chest workshop now in the MOA

The Parish Chest workshop run on the 16th March's recording is now available on the resources menu to members. If you missed the workshop and want to learn about the records available in the Parish Chest watch the recording. If you would like the Workshop run again so you can benefit from the Q & A session after the presentation email...

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  1022 Hits
Mar
13

MOA access will be lost

Be aware if you have not renewed your membership for 2022 you will lose your access to the members only area (MOA) in the next 14 days. Membership is only £10 per year and in our opinion very good value. Membership is cheaper than a meal out. An advantage is that you can sit at home and not wear a mask to avoid  Covid-19

  1029 Hits
Mar
10

Medieval Workshops Recordings Online

The Video recordings from the two Medieval Records Workshops are now available online. Sign in to the MOA and go too the Workshop videos to see our archive of recordings including the latest Medieval Records Workshops. 

  1035 Hits
Mar
06

Members Interests updated

Updated fully searchable tables of Members Interests have been loaded. These tables are for Surname Interests, Subject Interests and Places Interests. You can also see the latest in the March Journal which came out at the beginning of the month.

  1089 Hits
Mar
05

Rootstech 2022 and the Family History Federation.

NWKFHS was represented on this session of Rootstech by our President David Cufley. Despite a number of technical problems experienced the panel of representatives from five family history societies were able to explain the advantages of joining a Family History Society (FHS). If you could not see the original session and want to its now available o...

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  1058 Hits
Feb
24

What are Stray Certificates?

Over the years members have donated BMD certificates that they obtained only to discover they are not of their family.  These have been collected at the library in three volumes on the open shelves at BGR0023.  The index to these volumes under the Birth, Marriage and Death headings are available as PDF files to download under the buttons ...

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  1111 Hits
Feb
23

Murder in your House

"Did you know that there was a murder in your house?" These words were uttered to me by a cousin. He was wrong, but not by much!In 1956 mum, dad, my sister and I moved into Leahurst Road in Lewisham. Back in 1942 the body of an 11 year old girl was discovered under the floorboards of the housenext door. Much wartime crime, including murder, went un...

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  1129 Hits
Feb
23

What is Family ?

A family? ( My family? Your family?)But not The family, or the family of man or even such nebulous bodies as the Commonwealth family. The Oxford English Dictionary defines family as, amongst others, "The body of persons who live in one house or under one head, including parents, children, servants etc. (1545)" (Contentious I know, but who wouldn't ...

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  1083 Hits
Feb
20

You never know where research will lead!

Evacustes. You know how a name can lodge in your mind? As part of a NWKFHS writing workshop, I researched Frankwell, Shrewsbury, Shropshire especially the work of artist Evacustes Phipson. He was a prolific British topographical watercolourist in the 1890s and throughout the opening decades of the twentieth century but I couldn't find any that info...

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  1086 Hits
Feb
22

How UK Family History Societies can help with your research

The Family History Federation has organised a panel of Angela Malin, David Cufley Hillary Blanford, Ian Waller and Malcolm Austin at Rootstech 2022. These representatives of some UK family history Societies will explain the benefits of joining a UK family history Society. They will be able to advise how their and other Societies can help your resea...

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  1151 Hits
Jun
06

Blog request of the Library – Fogarty or Seymour.

Query 4 June 2020 Query from Albany, Western Australia. Two members of my family, Aunts Mabel Elsie Wheeler and Beatrice Nial are buried in Bexley. My Grandfather, William Fogarty, could be William Seymour also died in the area around 1948. The two aunts went to his funeral, they were living at 73 and 51 Rowley Avenue Sidcup at the time, we have he...

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  2059 Hits
Feb
10

Lucy Boxes first pictures

We have received the first pictures of local Lucy Boxes. This one is in Martin Dene, Bexleyheath. 

  1795 Hits
Aug
28

Wills for family History by Jackie Depelle 14th September

  14th September at 7.00 pm the Society presents the zoom talk by Jackie Depelle a family history tutor and speaker. The talk explains the value of using wills, perhaps the most useful resource after certificates & censuses. It is a personal insight into relationships & possessions. Find indexes & associated records. Jack...

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  1325 Hits
Jan
18

Merchant Navy Sources

Handouts available for researching merchant navy relatives following a talk by Penny Allen at Dartford meeting on the 4th September 2021 Click HERE for link 

  1115 Hits
Feb
12

Cloud Recording-DNA Clustering using Excel

 Video of Cloud Recording-DNA Clustering using Excel by David Cufley now available

  1029 Hits
Feb
19

Searching for ancestors when you're adopted

Only available until 19 March 2022 recorded  talk by Penny Walters searching adopted ancestors Go to page www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/all-other/zoom-talk-videos

  1039 Hits
Feb
16

King of the Costers, Frank Russell.

 The 1917 Daily Mirror had pictures of military figures mentioning their exploits with a picture entitled 'King of the Costers' of Frank Russell who had died, He was a stall-holder on Beresford Square Market, Woolwich and lived in Salutation Alley, a convenient location to store his barrows and move them into the market. He had resided in Wool...

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  1079 Hits
Feb
13

Updated Journal Contents Index

Searchable Journal contents index is available for you to check if your family or a subject has been previously published. The index is now up to date; December 2021; Volume 15 No 12. Our Journal has been published since 1978 and all its editions are online for you to search. Anyone can check the index out. If you want to read any pa...

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  1073 Hits
Jan
22

Library Catalogue Update

The Microfiche and microfilm catalogue has been updated after the catalogue session on the 21 January 2022. Our thanks go to the Cataloguing Cadre . There are now 157 pages to the catalogue covering 3155 items. When you consider the GRO index in two large cabinets covers 48 entries you will realise how many fiche and films are included in our ...

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  1109 Hits
Feb
07

New Workshop Videos

Three new workshops added and Medieval Records Pt 1 has been updated

  1036 Hits
Jan
28

New recently recorded talks

New recorded talks be quick as one only available until 11th March Click HERE to view or join 

  1082 Hits
Jan
26

What’s a blog about?

A blog gives news, details of events and workshops, talks about research and advice on doing your family history If you want to get regular updates why not subscribe to the blogs to Stay Informed by clicking on the boxes and filling in 'your name' and 'E-mail address'. To get more out of our web site learn about the Talks, Workshops and Discussion ...

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  1181 Hits
Dec
20

New Zoom Workshop Videos added to the Site

Look on the 'Resources' menu for the latest recordings of Zoom workshops that have been added to the site. The page link is https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/all-other/zoom-talk-videos-2 If you have missed any workshops or talks, all the recordings are available to members on our web site. If you cannot find the subject you want help wi...

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  1260 Hits
Jan
18

Scottish Interest Group Discussion

The Society has a Scottish Interest Group (SIG) that discusses aspects of researching their ancestors that were born, lived married or died in Scotland. At the last Zoom meeting on the 12th January, we discussed the highland clearances and the families that were affected by them. This raised a question about the timeline for this period of tho...

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  1190 Hits
Jan
16

Mid Jan 2022 Society Newsletter

The Mid January 2022 Society Newsletter is now available on the website click HERE

  1055 Hits
Jan
16

A Challenge to inform and celebrate your Ancestors lives.

The Editor is seeking new articles for future issues of NWKFHS Journal. Celebrate your research, challenge readers to solve your brickwalls, share the story of an inherited object or explain about some aspect of our area especially to distant members. Send your article to editor@nwkfhs.org.uk, as a Word file or in the body of your email, Target 300...

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  1073 Hits
Jan
13

Phillimore’s Atlas of Parishes

Where is a parish located.? The question that we all ask during our research. For many years we have used 'Great Britain, Atlas and Index of Parish Registers' to standardise parish name spellings. It means indexes are all of the same 'parish' field. If you want to map your family using GENMAP when the index database is loaded it gets accepted easil...

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  1169 Hits
Jan
08

Breaking down Brick walls, 26th January 2022.

 Submit your brickwall by 12th January 2022 if you have booked to attend this workshop. If you are only attending to learn about how to solve research queries then make sure you have booked to get the Zoom link. Contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk.

  1088 Hits
Jan
08

Books to help your family history research.

 The Society has a number of second-hand books, both reference and indexes that may be able to help your research. Have a look at the list on the web site https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/library-catalogues which covers part of our surplus stock. If you want any of these books make a donation and come to the library to pick them up.

  1021 Hits
Dec
31

Video Talks and Workshops available to you

There are now 32 (31-12-2021) video recordings of Zoom worshops and Talks. Did you miss one? Do you want to see it? Do you want to see one for advice to breakdown your brick wall? Then go to the members only area to see all the available recordings.. 

  1233 Hits
Dec
22

Illegitimacy

At this morning's DNA discussion group, Zoom meeting (22-12-2021) the question was asked about illegitimacy. We were talking about Adam Rutherford's book, 'A Brief History of Everyone who ever lived'. On page 175 when AR is discussing the research for Richard III DNA matches he mentions 'false paternity' (NPE) as 2% out of hundred people were ...

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  1161 Hits
Dec
12

Library Catalogues Updated

 We have updated the Microfiche and Microfilm catalogue so you can see the extent of fiche and films available at the Library. Look at nwkfhs.org.uk/resources/library-catalogues. All the catalogues are in seachable pdf format. The main catalogue of books and maps is also available online at the same address and can be accessed by selecting the...

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  1197 Hits
Oct
19

The Society Library visits

The library will open to members who book an appointment by telephoning the Librarian Janet Rose on 01322 384836. Let Janet know what Wednesday you want to attend and the time of the 2 hour slot you would prefer. If you need help then explain it to Janet so she can arrange for the right volunteer to be in attendance.  The Book collection catal...

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  1300 Hits
Nov
30

Covid-19 Masks Required for Society Meetings

From 30 November 2021 in line with governmwent instructions ALL members and visitors who attend Face to Face meetings of the Society are asked to wear masks. 

  1197 Hits
Nov
24

National Burial Index has 300,000 new entries from NWKFHS

The Society has now submitted over 300,000 burials to Find My Past (FMP) for the National Burial Index. These are burials from our area but the site has other Family History Societies submissions. You can also find details on our web pages such as Ladywell and Brockley  Cemetery.

  1234 Hits
Nov
19

Scandals, Sensational, Salacious and Sad

On the calendar there is a zoom meeting booked for next Tuesday 23rd  November 2021. The talk is by Chris McCooey on Scandals of Kent and Sussex, Sensational, Salacious and Sad, Including HG Wells, Noel Coward, grave robbers and prison hulks. The host will open the zoom at 7pm for members to join, the talk starts at 7.30.&n...

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  1234 Hits
Nov
14

Really Useful Show 13th November 2021

The Really Useful Show  booth for NWKFHS was manned by 7 volunteers who were there to help and answer questions  from the vistors to the show. A glitch with the software running the show meant all the Family History Society booths were effected. Some people did not get to ask their questions of our volunteers. If you were one of...

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  1115 Hits
Nov
12

Really Useful Show 12 November

The volunteers enjoyed meeting and greeting the visitors to our booth in the Exhibition Hall of the Show. They will be available again from 10am to 6 pm on Saturday 13th November. So if you have a question on North West Kent FHS area of Kent come and talk to us. 

  1180 Hits
Nov
09

Free access to FHF Really Useful Show on Friday 12th November

Family History Federation's REALLY USEFUL Family History Show 12-13 November 2021 The Exhibition Hall is FREE to access on Friday night Lots of interesting Booths. Come and have a chat with NWKFHS There is something for everyone Just go to fhf-reallyuseful.com and join us on Friday from 6pm - 10pm Talk to a Family Hist...

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  1230 Hits
Nov
09

New Home Page with pictures of North West Kent

We have updated the home page today and you will see changes to the Web site in the coming months. If you have any ideas for its future developement write to the us. 

  1147 Hits
Oct
09

Zoom talks by John Hanson and Jackie Depelle

  We are grateful to John Hanson and Jackie Depelle to allow their talks to be recorded and put on our Members Only area. This is for a limited period permission only They will be available from the 15th to 30 October 2021.

  1159 Hits
Oct
12

Your vote is important and may make a difference.

Only 24 hours to vote The postal voting for the AGM of Society Trustees and the changes to the constitution following Covid-19 pandemic ends on the 14th October. Please vote now either using the form in the Journal or digitally on this web site https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting Your vote is important and may make a difference. 

  1174 Hits
Oct
12

Members Interests updated

The members interests for Surname, Subjects and Places have been updated 12-10-2021 

  1253 Hits
Oct
10

Only 3 Days left to vote

The postal voting for the AGM of Society Trustees and the changes to the constitution following Covid-19 pandemic ends on the 14th October at Midnight. Please vote now either using the form in the Journal or digitally on this web site https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting Your vote is important and will make a difference.  PLEASE ACT NOW

  1202 Hits
Oct
03

Only 5 days to Vote.

The postal voting for the AGM of Society Trustees and the changes to the constitution following Covid-19 pandemic ends on the 14th October at Midnight. Please vote now either using the form in the Journal or digitally on this web site https://www.nwkfhs.org.uk/agm-voting Your vote is important and may make a difference. 

  1167 Hits
Oct
09

271,000 New burial entries added to NBI for England & Wales

The National Burial Index (NBI) project was initiated and produced by the then Federation of Family History Societies; now known as Family History Federation; and their Associates. The aim was that a researcher could look for, and hopefully find, that elusive ancestor in any part of England and Wales. This information meant that the researcher coul...

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  1197 Hits
Oct
07

Wills for family History by Jackie Depelle on 14th September 2021.

The talk explained the value of using wills, perhaps the most useful resource after certificates. A member has written to express her thanks for Jackie Depelle's talk on wills. She has been inspired to order a few wills already, with more to follow. She wanted to add some information that may be useful to others. She said if you sear...

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  1154 Hits
Oct
06

Brickmakers in Octobers WDYTYA magazine

The Who Do You Think You Are? magazine in its October's edition the 'Ancestors at Work' series features an article on Brickmakers. The article gives some basic facts about the trade and sources that may help you find your brickmaking ancestors. There is also a short list of resources and link to the British Brick Society.

  1174 Hits
Oct
03

Parish Chest the inside story.

  On the 19th October Lady Teviot will be talking about the 'Parish Chest' what it is and what it contains. It's a valuable source to use in conjunction with parish registers and shows how people lived, including overseers accounts, settlement and removal orders.

  1174 Hits
Oct
03

The latest Newsletter is out.

1921 CensusThe 1st October Newsletter is out and you can link to it above in the main banner heading. News of Face-to-Face meetings and their talks, Zoom talks, workshops and discussion groups that you really should not miss. Plus, news of the 1921 census coming in early 2022. 

  1208 Hits
Sep
16

Volunteer needed by the Editor's Team

The editor's team needs a volunteer to help with the emails and their attachments submitted by authors and society taskholders for inclusion in the Journal. If you can use emails and open their attachments received from members and can pass them on to others in the Editorial team please email Chair@nwkfhs.org.uk. This is a new role on the Editorial...

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  1240 Hits
Sep
14

Open discussion. All welcome. 15th September 2021

Mike Weeks is leading a Coffee Morning open discussion about family history, the Society and the family history world in general. Got any burning questions or queries come and ask Mike. For the zoom link email workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk

  1222 Hits
Aug
28

The history of Bethlem and Museum of the mind a zoom talk to the Society on the 21st August 2021.

A Talk by Amy Moffat, the Learning & Outreach Officer at the Museum about the history of hospital and its associated sites, the archives and patient records was recently given to the Society. The archives date back to the 1500s and the records of patients for Bethlem from 1670s to 1920s. The patient records are indexed by name on the Findmypast...

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  1304 Hits
Jul
06

Natalie Bodle My ancestors were Irish or were they? Thursday 12 August 7pm for 7.30

Natalie is a full-time professional genealogist, educator and tour guide and am a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG).A native of County Antrim, her company Roots Revealed is based in Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The talk examines the history and origins of Irish surnames.If you don't know where in Ireland yo...

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  1274 Hits
Jul
06

Janet Few "Sons of the soil researching agricultural labourers" Saturday 17 July 10am for 10.30

This session covers a range of sources, many of them under-used, which help to shed light on the working lives of our rural British ancestors. Help with those elusive Ag Labs. https://thehistoryinterpreter.wordpress.com/ 

  1233 Hits
Jul
12

Workshop lead by Zoe Brooks on Germans in London during WW1

'Germans in WW1 London and their experiences. Have your European ancestors changed their surname was it because they were German and had been iving in London for many years. What is the backgound to these families? Join the workshop and find out.

  1394 Hits
Jul
09

Library Catalogue updated

 The Library Catalogue has been updated with the books donated by deceased members families. The catalogue is on this web site and available to view by all family historians. Although the Library is closed at present due to Covid-19 restrictions we have managed to catalogue these books. They will make an interesting day for the volunteers when...

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  1337 Hits
Jul
06

John Hanson "One Name, One Place" Thursday 8 July 7pm for 7.30- 9pm

John has been researching family history for nearly 40 years and is a member of the Guild of One-Name studies. A former trustee of the Society of Genealogists for 14 years and has served on many other family history committees.Has lectured on and taught family history for nearly 20 years including at Who Do You Think You Are. This lecture will expl...

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  1367 Hits
Jun
17

Part 2 DNA by Donna Rutherford

Thursday 17 June 7pm for 7.30 - Donna Rutherford DNA (Part 2)- "So you had your DNA results now what? Making the most of your DNA results."Some of you will know that, due to technical difficulties at our end, Donna's part 1 talk started an hour late. Similar difficulties have prevented us uploading the recorded talk to our website for those who mis...

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  1273 Hits
Jun
03

Your Society needs…

The Society needs a Chairman or Chairwoman to lead us into this changing world of Family History. Out trustees form a friendly and close knit team, but now need a leader to direct and organise them and the Society. It is not essential to be part of the current organisation as we are fortunate in having members who can help and advise as one takes o...

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  1454 Hits
Jun
03

You're perfect if...

Wanted volunteers to help with the Society web site as part of a team. You need to be fairly computer competent, able to use MS Office and work with pdf files but this does not need specialist web site skills. The role is as easy managing your own computer, emails and writing up your family history. We have excellent web site designers who are ther...

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  1398 Hits
May
13

Reminder to enter the Calendar Competition.

onIf you have taken an awe inspiring photograph that has a connection with our area or family history research send it to chairman@nwkfhs.org.uk to be entered in the 2022 Calendar competition. 

  1463 Hits
May
04

Have you renewed your membership?

The administration of the web site has been started today and will be done progressively over the next week. If you have lost access to the MOA make sure you renewed your membership for 2021. It should have been done on the 1st January.  

  1457 Hits
Apr
14

Free Talk

Next FREE talk for all Saturday 1st May 10am for 10.30 Donna Rutherford (Part 1)- "DNA for beginners"  Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/81714661579?pwd=VDdrd2ZTaGZ0MnVqT1hmYzhWblFiUT09 Meeting ID: 817 1466 1579Passcode: 973577

  1340 Hits
Apr
12

FREE Talks

FREE talk by 'Elizabeth Barton - the Holy Maid of Kent' talk by Melanie Gibson Barton on Tuesday evening 13th April 7.00 for 7.30.pm Her Talk is about Elizabeth Barton of Aldington. The Prophetess who was executed for speaking against Henry VIII Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/97950252884 - it's a one-click link - no separate password requ...

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  1505 Hits
Apr
06

The FHF Really Useful Show 10 April 2021

Join North West Kent Family History Society to ask about our area and the people that lived in it. Our experts are available on the chat line to welcome you and answer your questions. You can come to our stand using the following link https://www.fhf-reallyuseful.com/north-west-kent-family-history-society 

  1637 Hits
Mar
12

Ghost signs on buildings – Fox and Sons, Hither Green Lane.

Email request of the Library. The owner of www.Ghostsigns.co.uk contacted the library saying he was writing a book about London's 'ghost' signs and plans to include the one attached, photographed here by my co-author Roy Reed (see below). It is causing something of a headache in terms of dating and referencing of the history which I wondered if you...

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  1637 Hits
Mar
12

John Parish - Fell ‘Here 17th April 2001’.

Email request of the Library. I was wondering if you could help point me in the right direction to find some information. My step dad and I were walking in beside a stream which ran down the hillside towards Birling. The stream was crossed by two footbridges about a metre wide and three metres long from one bank to the other. One of the bridges was...

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  1539 Hits
Mar
12

Ministry of Works Camp, No154, Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, German working camp.

Enquiry of the Library, 24 February 2021. I am assisting my brother, Dean Storckmann, with some research into his family history. His Grandfather was held at the Prisoner of War Camp in Swanscombe and went on to marry a local girl. It was known as Ministry of Works Camp, No154, Swanscombe Street, Swanscombe, German working camp. The site is now hou...

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  1768 Hits
Mar
12

Zoom Coffee Morning on the 24th March 2021. From 10.30 am London Time.

An open meeting for family historians to talk and ask about researching family history. Mike our Vice Chairman will co-host the session to moderate the discussions. The idea is everyone is muted and when they want to speak, they can use the 'raise hand' digital button and Mike can call them to speak. This unmuting can be done using the space bar. A...

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  1574 Hits
Mar
08

Thursday 11th March 7pm for 7.30 "Your Average Ancestor" By Ian Waller.

Ian is a retired professional genealogist with over 30 years experience in English research ,a former Chairman of and a Fellow of AGRA (The Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives) and has published several books related to Family research. During a lifetime most people left a large number of records (we all generate about 100 recor...

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  1588 Hits
Feb
20

FindMyPast discount code

FindMyPast discount code Did you know that Society members get 15% off FMP subscriptions? The cheapest FMP subs is £79.99 which means a discount of £12, yet the Society annual subs is only £10. There is an even bigger saving if you pay the FMP Plus or Pro rate. To find out the code use this link, which only works for members logged into our we...

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  1747 Hits
Feb
10

Kevin Bacon ‘Six degrees of separation’ Workshop.

 At Wednesday 10-2-2021 workshop one of the exercises to make connections was to compare birthdates of the participants. The calculation to figure out the probability of finding two people with the same birth date in a given group says that the 50% probability requires a group of approx. 23 people. For 100% probability the group needs to be be...

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  1594 Hits
Feb
03

Lucy Boxes

At Wednesday 3rd February's discussion group Victor told of a new activity when you are exercising by walking your local area. Its 'I spy Lucy Boxes', which are street furniture used to house electrical terminals for tramways, electrical street light terminals or as electrical junction boxes. The older boxes are of cast iron. You can...

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  2160 Hits
Feb
08

Plan B for Thursday evening's talk

The original speaker for Thursday evening, at the last moment, is unavailable.  The talk now will be 'Where will we be without Vincent, Keyes, Pam and Mayhew?' The talk will be a journey through London using four authors of Local and Family History sources. The presenter will be the Society President David Cufley. See the 'Home'...

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  1511 Hits
Feb
03

Addresses used on marriage certificates and parish registers

At the discussion group yesterday (Wednesday 3 February) it was mentioned that the same address was mentioned in the parishn registers for a number of entries for both parties to the same marriages. The address quoted was 101 Gosterwood Street, Deptford. Using street view it was seen this building was a small Victorian Terrace house ...

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  1615 Hits
Feb
03

Zoom Talk "The Inns Of Court"

 Dont forget to login to Zoom talk "The Inns of Court" By Ian Bevan on Saturday 6th February 10 am till 12.00 In 2006 Ian successfully completed the City of London Guides course and in October 2017 he was proud to be granted Freedom of the City of London in a ceremony at the Guildhall Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/86537312759...

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  1516 Hits
Feb
03

February Society Newsletter

The latest Society eNewsletter for February is now available to download from the website. To view see under top menu Community then click on Newsletters

  1517 Hits
Jan
24

Workshop recordings and handouts.

The Society has been asked by members to provide a recording of the workshops and presentations so that they can be viewed at their convenience. Rather than have to alter their diaries. While the recording will miss the Q & A session it does make them more accessible to our overseas members who live in different time zones. See the members only...

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  1531 Hits
Jan
23

Indian ancestors research

One of our members has contacted the Library to tell us of the success she has had researching her Indian ancestors using the familysearch.org web site. You may need to register on the site, but it is free. The Indian collections include:- India, Death and Burials 1719-1948. India, Births and Baptisms 1786-1947. India, Marriages 1792-1948. By click...

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  1531 Hits
Jan
17

“Chislehurst Characters”

        At Joanna Friel's presentation to the Society on Saturday 16th January 2020 entitled "Chislehurst Characters" in the Q and A session she was asked about Pascall's brickfield on Red Hill now White Horse Hill and if the bricks were used locally. Joanna responded that the brickfield was owned by the Pascalls but an earlier ...

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  1722 Hits
Jan
10

Trade Sources - Rural Life Workshop on 13th Jan

The subject of trade and occuaption sources is vast. David  has previously done the workshop based on the themes 'Family History' and 'One Places'. Now he has prepared one on Rural Life and agricultural trades. While there is some overlap it does use other records.  The guidance notes and the flow diagram on this web s...

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  1724 Hits
Dec
06

New 'How Far' record of members who attended our meetings

On Saturday 5th December the record for the distance a member who attended one of our Zoom meetings was broken. Last month the record had been held by a member from Scotland. On the 2nd December this record was broken by a member who attended one of our Workshops from Vancouver, Canada. The distance to Joydens Wood was 4,718 miles. This r...

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  1787 Hits
Dec
06

Members Interest update

The members interest's three pages, Surnames, Subject and Place, are now updated (6 December 2020) and include all the new entries that  were listed in the December 2020 Journal that was published on the 1st December 2020. If you want to add your interests or update your current listing use the submission form on this web site or ema...

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  1795 Hits
Nov
30

Workshop - Medieval documents part 1 and 2

Part 1: A look at some online sites with medieval records and information on 2nd December. Followed by Part 2 the use of early Manorial records to overlap the start of parish registers post 1538, a case study of methodology on 9th December. Contact Workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk. 

  1642 Hits
Nov
15

FHF-RU Show Handouts

Handouts for the Trade Sources talk are available on the FHF-RU Show item of the Events menu. All are pdf files that can be downloaded

  1756 Hits
Nov
10

5 December 2020 - The Goose is Getting Fat! A history of Christmas traditions presentation.

Imogen Corrigan was due to be presented this talk at our Dartford Branch, The Science & Technology College, Heath Lane, Dartford DA1 2LY. Now Imogen has agreed to do the presentation using 'Zoom' contact the Society to get details and codes. The first 100 members will get access via Zoom to the presentation. 

  1679 Hits
Nov
10

Family History Federation is hosting a virtual show on the 14th November 2020.

FHF REALLY USEFUL Family History Show will include 24 FREE Quality Talks, Exclusive Goody Bag, Specialist Vendors, Special Show Offers, Records & Books, Expert Help & Advice, Family History Societies, PLUS Much More … See https://www.familyhistoryfederation.com/ for more details. NWKFHS will be available to give advice during the day a...

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  1755 Hits
Oct
29

Your Society needs volunteers.

In normal circumstances the trustees get the opportunity to talk to members, learn of their interests and of their life experiences. Without the face to face contact this is not possible. If you have an interest or life experience you would like to share with the Society and help with its organisation PLEASE contact chairman@nwkfhs.org.uk 

  1719 Hits
Oct
29

Blog New Workshops – Sign up to join in.

Three new zoom workshops have been organised Drawing Charts and diagrams by hand as a research tool. 11 November 2020. Thinking outside the Box. This is an exploration of sources both inside and outside the box. 25 November 2020. A discussion group on a theme chosen by the participants. 16 December 2020 Contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk t...

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  1644 Hits
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Oct
10

Urgent only 4 days left to vote

The 2020 AGM was cancelled in April due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Now we are holding a postal and digital voting AGM. You can vote online by selecting the 'Voting' button on the members page. PLEASE VOTE NOW.  

  1739 Hits
Sep
16

Before 14th October please help by Voting for AGM items.

The 2020 AGM was cancelled in April due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Now we are holding a postal and digital voting AGM. You can vote online by selecting the 'Voting' button on the members page. PLEASE VOTE NOW.  

  1855 Hits
Sep
13

The next zoom workshops will be held on the 7th and 14th October.

The 'Error's Lies and misinformation' part 1 and part 2 zoom workshops will be run on consecutive Wednesdays. Email workshop.booking@nwkfhs to ask to join either or both workshops. Regular face to face workshops were run before the coronavirus shut down. Now we hope to run zoom workshops to make up for the learning experience and help the Society c...

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  1739 Hits
Sep
13

What zoom workshops do you want?

Send your request for a workshop to help your research on any subject and we will try to get one of our expert researchers to lead a workshop.  Email workshop.booking@nwkfhs to ask to join a zoom workshop and tell us what subject you want to be covered. Regular face to face workshops were run before the coronavirus shut down. Now we hope to ru...

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  1708 Hits
Sep
13

Zoom discussion group meetings.

Last Wednesday 9th September we held the first zoom Discussion Group meeting on 'Breaking down Brickwalls'. The session dealt with five members queries and the main theme was Irish ancestors. A recording of the session is available, as are the guidance charts that were used. Email workshop.booking@nwkfhs to ask to join a zoom discussion group and t...

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  1802 Hits
Aug
31

Zoom workshop - Errors Lies and Misinformation pt2 leader David Cufley

To attend this workshop email workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk to obtain an invitation code. Workshop is being held on 14th October from 11.00am to 12.30pm A workshop discussing errors in Official Records and Commercial Search Engines and how to try and spot them. Case studies will be used as part of the discussions Do you believe what your ancestors...

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  1790 Hits
Aug
31

Zoom workshop - Errors Lies and Misinformation pt1 leader David Cufley

To attend this workshop email workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk to obtain an invitation code. Workshop is being held on 7th October from 11.00am to 12.30pm A workshop discussing errors in Official Records and Commercial Search Engines and how to try and spot them. Case studies will be used as part of the discussions Do you believe what your ancestors ...

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  1714 Hits
Aug
31

Zoom discussion group - Brickwall Session- Moderator David Cufley

The zoom discussion group starts on Wednesday 9th September from 14.00 to 15.30 or longer if required. Members who wish to attend should email workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk to ask for an invitation code. Member who wish to attend should send details of their 'brickwall' so that the moderator can prepare source data pages beforehand ...

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  1726 Hits
Aug
25

Zoom workshops and discussion groups start

The Society is very pleased to announce workshops and discussion group meetings are available to members. Contact workshop.booking@nwkfhs.org.uk with the subject you want for the workshop you wish to attend. If you want to be part of a discussion group then let let us know the topic you wish to discuss. If you are an out of area member or an overse...

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  1799 Hits
Aug
25

Good News, the 2021 Society Calendar is now available.

The Society is pleased to announce the 2021 Calendars are now available through the Eshop. Order your copies now for an early Christmas present for members of your family, so they know by the highlighted dates what meetings you are attending; Corona Virus regulations permitting. Keep well and safe. 

  1706 Hits
Aug
25

Blog from our Journal editor. 25th August 2020

The editor Pauline asked 'have you had a look at the September issue of the Journal? Members can read it on-line now and many will also receive their paper copy in early September. Subscription to the Society is only £10 pa and includes in the benefits of four quarterly copies of the Journal. Pauline, the editor commented "It has been remarkab...

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  1693 Hits
Aug
14

First Workshop Zoom trial run yesterday successfully

News for all members that use Zoom we have now run our first workshop (13 August 2020). The trial went well and we hope to be announcing soon the dates and times to all members of other workshops. We need your ideas of what workshops should be the first to be run. We would also like you to say what times and the day of the week&...

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  1773 Hits
Aug
09

Library Blog – Meanings of words used on Certificates.

 Query from a member 9th August 2020. Is there anyone that can give me a little advice please? I have recently received a death certificate for a 2-month-old boy, it was registered in Croydon 1936. Under the name and surname he was shown as, David Bailey Hopkins otherwise Williams. The surname being researched is Hopkins. Never come up with a ...

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  1728 Hits
Jul
19

Library Research Blog – Samuel Levens a baker.

Query 18 July 2020 I wonder if you can help me please. In my family tree there is a Samuel Levens born Croydon 1753, died 1843 Beckenham. I have found on the internet (ancestry.co.uk) an article with the headline: Luxury bakers that served up a treat for the fat cats of the past, which I have been told relate to this person. However, it is very poo...

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  1918 Hits
Jul
19

Library query about General Registry Office Certificates. Warning to All.

 18 July 2020 It was with shock we learnt from one of our Canadian members that she had been charged $45CD for a certificate. She said a GRO certificate will cost me $45CD for only one certificate plus it will take 2 months to arrive by snail mail. Call me cheap but that price is exorbitant and the delivery archaic. We investigated and respond...

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  1964 Hits
Jul
14

Library Blog - Further Q & A on Orpington Institute

 Query and Answers to further queries following Orpington Institute request. 1) You discovered "Two patients online who died at Orpington Institute. Obray, John Robert, Born 1872 in Sheerness, Kent, England, Died Jun 27 1939 and Alice Mary Maude Louise LOPEZ was born about 1862 in Jamaica, Died on 8 Dec 1937…". Where did you find the...

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  1934 Hits
Jul
13

Library Blog – Research of Stone near Dartford

Query 11 July 2020 I've recently been doing some work on my family tree. Unfortunately I don't have many people to talk to about it so I have got information off the Census's etc but no other information. Most of my dad's family lived in Stone in Dartford and were all labourers. Basically, I wondered if you could suggest where I could look for more...

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  1804 Hits
Jul
13

Library Blog - A wonderful idea for Redundant or Duplicate NWKFHS Journals.

A number of members have asked recently what to do with their old Journals. The Library replied The library has a full set of Journals for access of members who like paper copies. We do not have the space and facilities to store duplicate copies of Journals and books. The web site has a full set of journals online available for members to read and ...

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  1815 Hits
Jul
09

Blog from the Library – Farnborough Hospital aka Orpington Institute.

Query 8 July 2020 From Canada, the writer said they were not sure if anyone is monitoring this email during the pandemic but thought they would try. I've come across a great aunt who apparently died at the Orpington Institute in Orpington, Bromley, Kent in 1937. I can't find any reference to the Orpington Institute online and with libraries closed ...

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  2644 Hits
Jun
28

So why do you study family history?

Dick Eastman's Newsletter of 7 June 2018 asked the question 'Why do we study genealogy? Genealogy is defined as the direct descent of an individual or group from an ancestor. It is a simpler question than 'Why do we study family history'. Family History I believe is to research not only our lines of descent but also the details of our family member...

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  2319 Hits
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Jun
28

Teaching an old dog old tricks.

At the AGM 2018 I purchased one of the surplus books from the Society Library. At 20p it was too good to pass over and it had so many interesting subjects, which I had still to learn their value. It's a copy of English Genealogical Congress, Selected papers given at the Congress of 1978 and 1984. Published by English Genealogical Congress c/o Socie...

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  2060 Hits
Jun
26

Blog Library Request – Bethel – Bromley Chapel - Dickens.

Query. 25 June 2020. I've found out that my ancestors were married at "the Independent" Chapel in Bromley on 25 July 1860. I was wondering if there was any information or parish registers that the NWKHS has on the Independent Chapel. My family seem to have been quite religious and non-conformists (not really sure what that means) and Annie and Fred...

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  1958 Hits
Jun
16

Blog donation to the Library – Stoneham and Ivimy families.

16th June 2020 Stoneham Brage Builders of the River Thames 1797-1881 A description of three generations of our barge-building ancestors Audrey E Cirillo's book on the Stoneham and Ivimy families was produced as a self-publication in 2002. She writes in the forward that 'she had written the following narrative not only for my satisfaction but also a...

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  2014 Hits
Jun
09

Blog donation to the Library – Crockenhill, Kent.

9th June 2020 The Society Library has been donated a number of postcards and photos of old Crockenhill, inherited from Agnes Abdey (nee Luxford). She worked for many years at the village stores for the Kingsnorth family. We are interested in these photographs as the Society Library has a photograph collection of pictures that have been donated. The...

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  1870 Hits
Jun
06

Blog request of the Library – Thomas Pound

Query 4th June 2020. I am wondering if you might be able to give me some assistance in my family history research. I am trying to find the baptism of my gt-gt-grandfather Thomas Pound whose entry in the family bible states that he was born on 5th February 1813 and christened in Chatham, but no specific date for that is given. They were a Navy famil...

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  2032 Hits
Apr
30

Blog request of the Library - Woolwich Arsenal Record

Query 30 April 2020 Can you tell me if there are any employment records that still exist relating to the employees of the Royal Arsenal Woolwich. My Father and Grandfather both worked there and I am trying to find out more information if that is possible. Answer 30 April 2020 The records we have are on the web site, but there are not many modern re...

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  1971 Hits
Apr
28

Blog request of the Library - Deptford Parish Registers.

Query 27 April 2020. I am researching my family history and I know they were living in Deptford in the late 16th century so I would dearly love to have sight of the relevant registers for that time. I see from the FamilySearch website that your society has produced a 4CD set of images of the St. Nicholas registers and I wonder if it is possible to ...

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  1886 Hits
Apr
10

Blog request of the Library - Request from Australia.

Query 9 April 2020 I live in Gladstone, Queensland, Australia. I was born in the UK and my family come from the village of Sandhurst in Kent. Samuel Reeves moved to Bermondsey in 1825. Their family name was Reeves. I am a member of Ancestry, but appear to have exhausted all the information they can provide. I was hoping that you could provide me wi...

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  1862 Hits
May
04

Blog request of the Library - Request from Australia re Canterbury, Kent.

Query 4 May 2020 I have a strange request which I hope you may be able to help me with. I'm in Adelaide, South Australia, Australia, looking for ancestors. I have an address which google earth isn't showing. Ancestry.com is too hard for me and I don't know how else to find information. I google mapped around Canterbury and came up with you. Do you ...

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  1994 Hits
May
07

Blog request of the Library - Early Census (CD-ROM)

 Query 7 May 2020 Please could you advise whether the above CD includes Rochester and Chatham? Also is this just numerical data or does it include the names and/or occupations of people resident. I have an ancestor who was born elsewhere but was a cutler in Rochester from c1825 to 1847 when he died. I am trying to find out when he arrived in R...

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May
08

Blog request of the Library - Question WW2 soldier.

Query 8 May 2020 I'm searching information on soldiers who are buried at the local cemetery in Enschede (Holland). One of the men buried there is Clarence Paul Carver and I still have little information from him. I found information that he used to live in Kent that's why I sent this message. Do you have any information on him or know someone who h...

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May
06

Blog request of the Library – East Street, Plumstead in 1891 Census

 Query 6 May 2020 Can I ask please, have you ever heard of EAST STREET, PLUMSTEAD, or possibly LAST STREET? It appears on the 1891 Census. Answer 7 May 2020 One of our researchers wrote. If memory serves me well East Street was down near Siemens Factory (which became AEI where he had spent his apprenticeship) and this area is now an industrial...

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May
19

Blog request of the Library – Bromley Little Theatre.

Query 15 May 2020 I am a member of Bromley little theatre and I'm embarking on a project to make a video of the theatre's history, most of the video will just be a guided tour for posterity, but I'm hoping to start it with a brief history of the building we think the theatre was originally a bakery but I can't find any proof of this, in fact I can'...

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Mar
18

Bromley 22nd September meeting now on 15th September

Due to an unfortunate sequence of events that were out of our hands, we have had to change the date of our September meeting from Saturday 22nd to Saturday 15th. The venue is the Methodist Church as usual. Meryl Catty will still able to visit us, but we have had to change the title of the talk, as Maureen Binks will be on holiday on the 15th. Meryl...

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Mar
11

Insight into occupation records

Everyone of your ancestors had to earn a living to survive, no social services and little parish support. So if you want to learn more about occupational records then Jean Stirk's workshop on 21 March 2018 will help you. Contact workshop@nwkfhs.org.uk. There are places available for members. Sorry, due to lack of workshop space we cannot accept non...

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Mar
10

Calendar Photographic Competition 2019

Each year the Society produces a slim wall calendar using images submitted by members. Contributions after costs from the sales of the calendar become income for the Society. This year you can sponsor the cost of the printing by making a donation. This will reduce the cost and enable us to sell the calendar at a lower price. The names of all the sp...

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Mar
06

3rd March 2018 meeting CANCELLED

Guest speaker Peter Calver of Lost Cousins Our meeting on Saturday 3 March was cancelled as the venue, Dartford Science and Technology College, had been closed due to snowfall. It was hoped to hold the meeting this Saturday 10 March as the speaker, Peter Calver, of LostCousins is available. BUT UNFORTUNATELY THE COLLEGE HAS TOLD US THAT THE HALL IS...

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Jan
20

General Data Protection Regulations

The Data protection regulations come into  force on the 25 May 2018. Family History Societies like NWKFHS need to consider these regulations. Help on the regulations is available on the Federation of Family History Web site.

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Jan
19

Mapping Family Locations

At the mapping workshop on Wednesday 17th January 2018 one of the queries raised was to do with a brickmaker in 1911 at Kilsyth, Stirlingshire. Checking the Brickmakers Index there were two entries for sources that refer to Kilsyth. The first was Gartshore Brickworks at Kilsyth, Dunbartonshire. The second was for Gartshore Brickworks at Kiltsyth St...

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Jan
19

Bedfordshire Parish Registers

If you have an interest in Bedfordshire you can find the F G Emmison published parish registers  online at www.archive.org. These transcriptions were published in the 1930s to 1940s and run to about forty volumes. Some volumes deal with a single parish while others combine a number of parishes.

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