Matthew Caffyn: Theological conflict in Sussex and Northamptonshire
Matthew Caffyn was a 17th-century preacher from Sussex — a farmer, dissenter, and fierce debater who defied Oxford, clashed with Quakers, and shaped nonconformist faith.
Death, Disputes, and the Churchyard Gate
Before Victorian cemeteries became peaceful parks, England’s churchyards were overcrowded, unsanitary — and battlegrounds of religious politics. Discover how a crisis in death reshaped the landscape of mourning.
Newspapers and Research
Thoughts on using histric newspapers and fiction in your research. What can they possibly tell us?
Arthur Ward (1888-1948)
The story of my grandfather, Arthur Ward, has been published by the Society of Genealogists in the Genealogists’ Magazine.
Resources and Tips for searching WWI Army ancestors
Often, a complete service record has not survived in the archives. However, it is possible to create a partial picture from other records and sometimes from other soldiers in the same regiment or unit.
Arthur Ward (1888-1948): Northamptonshire Regiment and Sherwood Foresters
These 35 men enlisted on 6th December 1915 to the 3rd Northamptonshire Rgt. On arrival in France, they were transferred to the 10th Sherwood Foresters. Of this group of 35, 12 lost their lives in France.
Arthur Ward (1888-1948): A Veteran’s Life After War
The final part of Arthur Ward’s story covers his return to civilian life — a time of hardship, resilience, small joys, and enduring health problems from his wartime injuries. Through employment struggles and union activism, Arthur navigated the uncertainties of interwar Britain.
Arthur Ward (1888-1948): Gas, Retreat and Recovery
In this second instalment, Arthur’s experiences on the Western Front intensify. Facing the horrors of the German Spring Offensive and a devastating gas attack in August 1918, this chapter tells of survival, resilience, and recovery against overwhelming odds.
Arthur Ward (1888-1948): From Northampton to the Front
This is the story of my grandfather, Arthur Ward — a Northampton delivery boy turned First World War soldier. His journey from the quiet streets of Northampton to the trenches of the Western Front offers a personal glimpse into a generation of young men swept up in history’s deadliest conflict. In this first instalment, we follow Arthur’s early life, enlistment, and his first experiences at the front.
George Robert Skene (1802–1867): Surgeon, Reformer, Publisher, and Advocate
Forgotten reformer, country doctor, and radical newspaperman — George Robert Skene shaped 19th-century debates on everything from church rates to poor law reform. Dive into the story of a man whose restless mind left its mark on politics, publishing, and social justice.