Courtesy of A-Z 2026

Genealogy and family history perhaps mean different things to different people, in much the same way that family trees and pedigrees do. I do not think it is specific as to what group of researcher, or type of individual use what terminology, nor do I think it matters.

I take the view that engaging with the research of families is what counts, and incorporating associated disciplines as we try to unravel the lives of others with whom we share something, whether that is link to a place, link to a family or a surname, or genetics.

The Advanced One-Name Studies course is a good course to looking at the more in-depth approach to One-Name Studies and researching surnames. It is not about a numbers game, I have X amount in my study. Instead it is more of a rounded approach to surname research, whether that is a surname specific project, or a more general surname interest. Not just that, it is about interacting with other researchers who understand the process of analysis and synthesis of research, and all the other fascinating material we all love.

The Advanced course, which is linked above is set to run in June 2026.