About

It was a delightful lucky dip to look through Mum’s photos, all indiscriminately thrown into a tattered suitcase, perhaps coming up with a formal one, faded and torn, from early in the 20th century or a vibrant, colourful snap from the 21st. I have always been fascinated by tales of family, including those told at reunions, when I was young, by my Dad and his brothers regarding their boyhood antics.

My first introduction to genealogy was when I was about 7 years old, and Mum drew a chart ahead of a holiday to our home town of Perth, Western Australia. This helped me to place my many cousins into their respective families and gave me such a strong sense of belonging.

I have been researching the genealogy of my children’s ancestors for over 20 years. While it is satisfying to have all the facts about dates and places, it is the social context and the stories which are the most interesting – the family history, rather than the genealogy.

I want to share these stories with you – my relatives and anyone else who enjoys a good story.

I live with my husband, Chris, in Queensland, Australia. I enjoy reading, playing Bridge, growing organic vegetables and trying to live sustainably.

I would love to read your comments on any of my posts; I’m sure we can collaborate and share information.  If you would like to contact me via email, see the contact page for details.

In 2018 I participated in the 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks meme promoted by Amy Johnson Crow.  My separate blog for this is at Shell’s Family 52 Ancestors.

Shelley