Introduction

I was born and educated in London and have lived on the edge of Exmoor National Park, West Somerset, for 41 years. Aged fifteen I made my first visit to Somerset House, The Strand, where birth, marriage and death records for England & Wales were held and open for public viewing. I was searching the year 1905 for my grandfathers birth entry which I found and ordered, a copy arriving in the post some days later. That day began a life-time hobby which developed into serious ancestry research around 15 years ago. Having roots in London, Middlesex, Devon, Kent, Norfolk, Surery, Wiltshire and the northern counties of England, Ireland and USA & Canada along with a branch of my family of whom I new little, only that my great grandfather had been a music hall artist of some fame, along with several other family mysteries to solve. Whilst achieving these aims I developed a passion for 'genealogy' there always being another goal to reach. When I had completed research into most of my family branches, I began to utilise my knowledge and experience in researching for others, which I continue to do today.

Experience and Qualifications

I have researched all branches of my family, some of which is documented here on these pages. Completed research projects for other family members, friends, neighbours, colleagues and more recently individuals through recommendation, with a high success rate and customer satisfaction. Projects included both rural and city folk from all walks of life and from most counties of the UK, including local Somerset, Devon and West Country families, also families with Hebrew roots. Research has involved liaison with the majority of Family History Societies in the British Isles including Ireland & USA & Canada. Retired from a career in the leisure industry I offer my wide range of knowledge and expertise in a professional capacity as Genealogist and Ancestry Researcher. I have full access to the UK and USA National Archives, and can travel country-wide especially to resources in Bristol & London. I am a member of The Society of Genealogists.

Research Service

An initial consultation, followed by a survey into your specific request is recommended. I will then report back to you regarding the possibilities, time & costs involving your case. I provide a comprehensive genealogical service researching ancestors in all parts of the United Kingdom. I can undertake most projects large or small depending on your needs, from a specific search or look-up, to a detailed report covering several generations or lineages and I am also able to trace living relatives, the time spent and work carried out is entirely up to you. A realistic way to proceed with research is mutaully agreed with all clients before commencement of research during which you will be kept regularly updated. On completion you will receive a detailed report on all my findings together with all relevent documentation, certificates, photo-copies, pedigree charts & trees, depending on the assignment.

Before you approach me gather as much information as possible. Check correct names & spellings, dates & places of birth/baptism, marriage, death or burial, spouses name/maiden name, where they lived and perhaps their job, in fact all you can find. With your information prepare a tree and then contact me, see below.

Presentation gift

A unique idea for family or friends alike. How about creating a personalised presentation gift for that special occation - their family tree. You can do one or a couple of small branches or commission an entire family pedigree with all branches.

Fees

Current rate for 2010 is £17.50 per hour or part thereof.

Contact details

Initially please be in touch via email giving me details of the person(s) to be researched. I will then make an assessment and contact you in a short while. In most cases I will be able to trace your ancestor(s) back to the late 18thC, and in many cases further back than that and at modest cost.

You can email me here with your enquiries jrb@raslus.co.uk