Family History Stories

From Coffee House to Public House: The Blackburn Family in The Mint, Southwark | Untangling Family History

Helen Rimmer

Published on: 17/04/2026

Three generations of the Blackburn family ran businesses in The Mint, Southwark — from Regency coffee house to Victorian pub. Did Dickens himself drink coffee here? Discover their remarkable story.

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Elizabeth's Story: Uncovering a Clandestine Marriage in 18th-Century London Family History

Helen Rimmer

Published on: 23/03/2026

Discover how one entry in the London Clandestine Marriage Registers unlocked a remarkable 18th-century family history story — featuring secret identities, a possible gypsy husband, and a woman who lived to 101.

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My Family Tree Led to 19th-Century Smugglers, a Murder Trial, and a Royal Order from the King

Helen Rimmer

Published on: 17/03/2026

It started with my grandmother's memory. A routine family history search spiraled into a tale of Sussex smugglers, a violent clash, a murder trial, and a shocking Royal Order from King George III. Discover how one document can change everything you think you know about your ancestors.

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