Who we are - or Who am I?
My name is Lee Westwood. I am a father of three, grandfather of three, and husband.
I began researching my family tree over 25 years ago. Since retiring in 2022, I have dedicated more time to researching ancestry for friends, family, and I now offer this service to others. This work involves uncovering and validating records with great thoroughness to ensure accuracy. Accurate records are crucial as errors can lead to incorrect conclusions from that point onward. The social history aspect of our family story is also significant and fascinating.
While it is possible to find records for immediate parents, aunts, and uncles, valuable information often pertains to individuals from the 19th century and turn of the 20th century. These people experienced events such as the First World War, possibly the Boer War, and the Industrial Revolution, which transformed their lives. Their occupations, many of which no longer exist due to modernization, reflect the era's challenges and advancements. Historical records such as the 1911 census provide insights into family life, including childbirth and mortality rates during those times. Census records from 1841 to 1921 provide valuable nuggets of information from a point in time. Newspaper articles and military records from yesteryear provide further narrative.
An example worth noting is the diverse origins of forebears. For example, my maternal grandparents originated from Newport in South Wales and Newcastle in northeast England, respectively. Understanding how individuals born 300 miles apart before the First World War met and married can be intriguing.
Researching ancestry reveals both positive and negative aspects of one's heritage. There are tales of success and unfortunate outcomes, offering a comprehensive view of family history. Expect highs and lows as your journey of discovery is uncovered!
I look forward to assisting in uncovering your story.
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