How to research the war history of your family
Every family tree has been scarred by conflict, and the service records of the armed forces detail innumerable acts of tragedy and triumph. This course gives writers the research tools they need to commemorate the sacrifices and heroic acts of their ancestors.
Led by former Who Do You Think You Are genealogical researcher, Dr Nick Barratt, this course focuses on the challenges of searching the diverse sources of historical information held nationally, from medal rolls to regimental museums. By enabling researchers to pinpoint theatres, campaigns and regiments in which your family fought, it will help you to build up a soldier's eye perspective of seismic historical events, unearthing period detail and unforgettable narratives, which can make the basis for posthumous memoirs or works of fiction based on your own family history.
The price of the course includes limited follow-up advice from Sticks Research Agency.
Course description
The course combines theoretical advice and practical exercises to enable attendees to begin researching specific ancestors. Illustrated with real case studies from TV shows including the BBC series Who Do You Think You Are?, the course includes an overview of basic genealogical research techniques, and more detailed instruction in accessing military records for each of the armed services, and cross-referencing sources to build up a more complete picture of the history of incredible characters from your ancestry. Topics covered include:
- Introduction to genealogy
- Getting started and realistic expectations
- Commemorating the First World War
- Army ancestors
- The Royal Navy
- Tracing Royal Marines
- Life in the RAF
This course is for you if…
You are interesting in uncovering details of your family's involvement in specific conflicts. Please note that while this course includes some basic genealogical research information, previous experience, a familiarity with your family tree, and/or knowledge of a particular family member or stories you would like to investigate, is an advantage.
Tutor profile
Dr Nick Barratt is a leading broadcaster, author and medieval historian, best known for his work on BBC's Who Do You Think You Are?, as well as appearing on and presenting programmes such as So You Think You're Royal, Secrets from the Attic, and Missing Millions. His published works include Who Do You Think You Are? Encyclopaedia of Genealogy, Lost Voices from the Titanic and Greater London: the Story of the Suburbs. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, President of the Federation of Family History Societies and a Trustee of the Society of Genealogists. He is an international lecturer, regularly giving presentations on a wide range of historical topics.
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Details
Date: Saturday 11 January 2014
Times: 10am-5pm
Location: The Guardian, Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU
Prices:
☻Early bird special (a limited number of places at a reduced price for people who book in advance)£199
☻Regular price£229
(all prices include VAT, booking fee, lunch and refreshments)
Maximum course size: 16
Dress code: There is no dress code for Masterclasses. Please dress however you feel comfortable.
To contact us, click here. Terms and conditions can be found here.
Returns policy
Tickets may be refunded if you contact us at least 7 days before the course start date. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.