John Hinshelwood writes:

Early Modern Ancestors Day – Family History Event

Family records dating back to the 17^th century are rapidly becoming easier to consult and use. This makes it possible for people with an interest in family history - without previous specialist knowledge or experience - to trace the history of their family, and to identify ancestors who lived up to 400 years ago.

Roehampton University is to hold an Ancestors Day on Saturday, 18^th June 2011 in which these research techniques will be described and demonstrated by experts. Participants will also have the opportunity to apply these techniques to their own family history research for the period between 1600 and 1700 and beyond.

The event will last a full day, and there will be a series of presentations by acknowledged experts in the various fields. The first set of research keys will be the ability to find, read and understand the comprehensive 17^th century sources. These often provide information not far short of that found in the modern census. Dr. Edward Vallance of Roehampton University, under the engaging title of 'Sources to Swear By', will outline what can be learnt from such sources.

In the afternoon, over a three-and-a-half hour period,  a further set of research keys will be provided through a series of workshops in which delegates will be able to try their hand at these research techniques, using genuine 17^th and 18^th century records. Users will learn how to get to grips with data including around 50,000 households recorded in the Hearth Tax for London and Middlesex on the eve of the Great Fire of London.

The day will end with a keynote lecture by Professor David Hey, and a complimentary drinks reception. There will be plenty of opportunity for people to discuss among themselves and with the course leaders their interests, experience and what they have been learning over the day.

All-inclusive day tickets are priced at £85, which includes all talks, workshops, lunch, refreshments and entry to the keynote lecture and drinks reception.

Further details can be obtained by visiting http://bit.ly/jVfpzB

or www.roehampton.ac.uk/hearthtax