Published by the FHSC on CD, 2008. This index was commenced by Bertram Merrell but this publication contains additional enhancement by FHSC members Jan & Mike Craig who used the original records at Chester. The CD covers only two decades yet there are over 38,000 names laid out in PDF sheets. All surnames are listed alphabetically, then the first name, then their marriage partner; other information if available is included—ages and parishes in particular. The listing is particularly useful in that brides are included in the alphabetical surname listing. The bonds and allegations can provide critical information for family history research and should not be overlooked. The original bonds and allegations are housed at Chester RO—but this CD is your starting point for basic information. A “must” for your collection. Bertram Merrell has produced his own CD of transcriptions he has made of marriage bonds and allegations. The FHSC CD is available from CD Sales—£6.00 plus £1.50 for UK mail; £3.00 for overseas.
5th edition. Published by FHSC Macclesfield Group. 42 pp. If you are researching in the Macclesfield area you will find this little book invaluable. It is packed with information about which records are where and has been updated to include those at FHSC's Alderley Edge Research Centre. The fact that it is now the 5th Edition shows how popular it has proved. Joan covers every topic: pubs, police, railways, schools, church records, estate records, parish records, MIs, family records etc. Congleton, Wilmslow and Alderley Edge districts are also included. You can get your copy direct from her at: 62 Orme Crescent, Macclesfield, SK10 2HS for £4.00 (includes p&p). All proceeds go to Macclesfield Group.
Published by the Society of Genealogists 2008 ISBN 978-1-903462-96-6. This book is another in the 'My Ancestor was...' series. Ken begins with a brief history of the Royal Marines and describes its divisions. He goes on to say where the records can be found, including the Court Martial records. He lists the names of the medals awarded to members of the Royal Marines. He mentions the records held by the Society of Genealogists as well as those at the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich and the Imperial War Museum at Lambeth plus several other repositories, illustrating their usefulness with some case histories. A useful glossary and bibliography complete the volume along with some addresses and interesting web-sites. If you have a relative in the Royal Marines then this is the book for you. Price: £6.95. UK posted £7.95; overseas surface £8.85; overseas by airmail £10.35.
Published by The Society of Genealogists 2007 ISBN 978-1-903462-98-0. Which of us does not have an Ag Lab in our ancestry? Ian describes the life of the ordinary worker on the land and all the various skills needed. He describes the work of the ploughman and the shepherd and points out the importance of the horse and its care. He tells us about the hiring fair and the farming calendar. Country folk lived their lives according to this timetable of events - ploughing, sowing, harvesting. He describes the cottages occupied by the Agricultural Labourer and their education and social life. Then he outlines the various records in which their names may be found - from Quarter Sessions to tithe schedules, manorial records, estate records, trade union records and so on. He adds a useful bibliography for further reading on the subject and a list of Parliamentary Bills that affected the lives of Ag Labs. This is a very useful book with food for thought for both the beginner and the more experienced researcher. Price: £7.50; UK posted £8.50; overseas surface £9.40; overseas by airmail £10.90
Published by Countryside Books 2008. Paperback; 192pp. ISBN 978 1 84674 099 2. Have you got a box of family photos of unnamed relatives from the past? Dating them and deciding who they are can be fraught with difficulties. This book is an aid to dating them, using the fashions of the time for the period 1850—1950. Each section covers ten years and it is profusely illustrated with photographs. Jayne points out that the older people are less likely to be dressed in up-to-date fashions whereas young people and those getting married are more likely to be wearing the latest fashion. From the 1850s props were used. These, plus accessories such as hats and bonnets, can help with dating, not forgetting hairstyles, neckwear and facial hair for the men. Even the type of background can help with dating. There are lots of useful hints and clues to look for when trying to date photographs. Men’s styles of clothing changed less than ladies' but seeing so many photographs together in one volume is very handy for reference. There are over 230 photographs in the book. Everyone will find something of interest in Jayne's well-researched and well-produced book. It will become a classic, I'm sure. I shall be investing in one. Available from our bookstall the book costs £12.99 retail; UK posted £14.95; overseas surface £16.00 and overseas by airmail £19.30
