Family Ties

After a conversation the other night, I have decided to build my family tree. It's something I've always wanted to do, talked about numerous times but never actually gotten around to. And, it'll give me something to do while I'm off work! There are so many websites these days which deal with archives, the Census, births, deaths and marriages, it's difficult to know where to start, although thankfully the surname Mowling is extremely rare. I have found many Mowlings on the Census for 1901, 1891, 1881, 1871 and 1861 and there are a few names I recognise from conversations I've had in the past. However, I have decided to forget all that for the moment and just start with what I already know. I am using the Genes Reunited website to begin as it is really easy to use and it has the facility to build a tree just by entering details: name, year of birth and place of birth. Trouble is, it's surprising how much of that type of information you DON'T know - I've had to guess the majority of years until I get the chance to verify it with other members of the family. Also, maiden names are a problem, especially when there's been previous marriages. I've emailed my cousin Andrew in Australia because I needed his first wife, present wife and daughters' details. Turns out he previously acquired all my Mum's side of the family tree from our Great Auntie Sylvia many years ago which is great news because I was planning to write to her for all the information. She is the family 'expert' and can talk for days about the family history. Fascinating but once you get her talking, that's it!! I already have dozens of old family photos on my lounge wall (copies not the originals), but it's hard to remember everyone's name and who is related to who. I think my Dad will be able to help with the basics of his side of the family, but his Mum is still with us, so hopefully Nan will be able to fill in any gaps.

I'm really up for this and looking forward to gathering the information!