Unearth the Past: A family history & genealogy podcast

Embark on a voyage through time with BAFTA-winning producer Juliet Charlesworth, as she pieces together the intriguing puzzle of her family's legacy. In the company of this British drama powerhouse, we venture into the posh origins and humble beginnings of the Reeves Charlesworth line, unearthing a narrative rich with heartwarming connections to the past. The saga continues with the industrious tale of Reeves Charlesworth Limited, a company that laid bricks and built futures since 1895. The firm not only revolutionised housing development but also championed the welfare of the working class. Juliet shares personal snippets from her family's history that reveal the essence of the Charlesworth spirit—innovators with a penchant for bachelor's mushy peas and a vested interest in their community's health and wellbeing. Closing our journey, we explore the colourful tapestry of Juliet's maternal family tree, with connections to American pioneers, literary icons, and possibly Scottish royals. Join us for this emotional and enlightening exploration, which promises to be as captivating as the stories Juliet brings to life on screen. Presented by Dr Michala Hulme Research Assistants: Javareia Saleem & Lucy Stott Proudly Supporting the Power of One Useful Links www.rostherneresearch.com www.michalahulme.com https://powerofone.org.uk/our-campaigns/support-strays-without-borders-transforming-lives-through-spaying-and-neutering/ Support the show

Join Dr Michala Hulme as she unpicks the extraordinary life of Liam "The Hitman" Harrison, the eminent eight-time Thai boxing world champion. His vibrant narrative captures a transformation from the football fields of his youth to the Muay Thai rings, where he clinched his global icon status. Liam opens up about his rise to the pinnacle of UK fighters, his storied international bouts, and how he's now pioneering the future of combat sports with his innovative coaching strategies and the burgeoning Hitman Fight League. It is a tale of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that transcends the bounds of the sport. The time-travelling saga doesn't stop at the ropes of the ring; we delve into the Harrison family's tree, unearthing tales of war heroism and industrious glassblowers. Discover the bravery and sacrifices made by Liam's ancestors during WWI, and the intricate papermaking legacy that followed. Each chapter of his family history, from survival stories and brushes with the law, to connections that have spanned generations, are woven together to form the tapestry of Liam's lineage. Join us for this gripping recount of personal memories and historical records, where the echoes of Liam's forebears resonate with the triumphs and challenges of his own storied career. Useful Links: Dr Michala Hulme Liam Harrison Power of One Witney Antiques Production Assistants: Javareia Saleem Lucy Stott For research enquiries: Rostherne Research Support the show

Discover the unforeseen twists and turns hidden within John May's family tree as the beloved comedian and actor sits down with us to share his extraordinary lineage. Tales of heroism and scandal unfold, as we find ourselves captivated by the stark contrasts of the past, from a man who couldn't swim yet saved a child to the complicated life of John's great-grandmother, Elizabeth. John's authentic reflections transport us back in time, and we uncover the heartrending loss of Henry Dowdall Jr. at sea during WWII and an unexpected death in Peru. The emotional retelling breathes new life into the black-and-white pages of ancestry, reminding us that the past is more than just names and dates—it's a living narrative of the human spirit. From the Hindles and Davies to the Ruddock migration, the familial bonds are painted in vivid detail, with historical photographs igniting a sense of recognition and connection. By the episode's end, there's a profound sense of gratitude—for the stories shared, the legacies honoured, and the listeners who join us on this journey through time. Useful Links: Michala Hulme or @drmichalahulme Witney Antiques Power of One Ancestry DNA Testing Kit with Traits - Amazon Affiliate Link Presented by: Dr Michala Hulme Production Assistants: Javareia Saleem & Lucy Stott Support the show

Imagine tracing your roots and finding a connection to a music hall legend from the early 20th century and a link to Jack the Ripper! That's the remarkable journey we embark upon with our guest, makeup artist sensation and influencer Mitchell Halliday. Accompanied by his mum, Jacque, together, we discover the enchanting history behind Mitchell's great-great-grandfather, Edgar Percy Halliday, and the legacy of artistic spirit that thrives in their family. Michala reveals new information about Jacque's father that she never knew, including some surprising Ancestry DNA Results. Join us for this heartwarming episode, where we celebrate the revelations that bind us to our past and guide our future. Useful Links: Michala Hulme or @drmichalahulme @mmmmitchell @madebymitchell Witney Antiques Power of One Ancestry DNA Testing Kit with Traits - Amazon Affiliate Link Support the show

When life throws you a curveball, sometimes all you have is your strength and resilience to see you through. Welcome, genealogy enthusiasts, to another episode of "Unearth the Past." Today, we have the privilege of delving into the life of Kerry Kayes – a former bodybuilding champion, award-winning business owner, accomplished strength and conditioning coach, and renowned nutritionist. This is the story of a man whose life embodies the sheer power of the human spirit, from his early days grappling with undiagnosed dyslexia to his ascent as a British champion bodybuilder and founder of CMP Professional. Kerry's candidness about his personal battles and the losses that have shaped him will move you as much as it did me. As if his life journey weren't compelling enough, Kerry's family tree brings secrets and surprises from Toronto to the Isle of Man. We discuss the emotional discovery of his half-sisters and how the nomadic past of his ancestors has left a legacy of wanderlust in him. Join us for an episode that is not just about the intricacies of family history but also about Kerry's tenacious spirit, inspiring you to look at your challenges with a renewed sense of hope and courage. It's a story of loss, love, and legacy that will stay with you long after you've listened. To watch the podcast on YouTube, click here. To contact Michala, you can do so via her website, www.michalahulme.com A huge thank you to this week's sponsor, Witney Antiques Support the show

When my friend Ian first told me about his quest to discover his birth parents, it struck a chord within me. As we sat down to record this episode, I knew we were about to embark on a narrative that would resonate with many. Ian's story unfolds from a childhood filled with unanswered questions. He candidly recounts the moment at twelve years old when he stumbled upon his adoption papers, setting in motion a lifelong journey of self-discovery that would challenge and fulfil him in ways he never anticipated. The narrative reaches its climax as Ian details his hesitant yet hopeful outreach to biological relatives. The complex tapestry of emotions faced by adoptees surfaces, from the fear of rejection to the elation of connection, as Ian traverses the highs and lows of these encounters. His story culminates in the profound discovery of a half-sister, a serendipitous finding that brings unexpected joy and a sense of completeness to his journey. Ian's experience, shared with raw honesty and reflective insight, offers listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of uncovering one's origins and the indelible impact it has on an individual's life story. To watch the podcast on YouTube click here! To contact Michala, you can do so via her website, www.michalahulme.com If you would like to reach out to Ian, you can do so via, www.ianroyle.com A huge thank you to this week's sponsor, Witney Antiques Support the show

As I sat down with Vinny Shoreman, it became quickly apparent that his journey from a Manchester youth indifferent to football to a revered Mind Coach and Thai Boxing commentator was no ordinary tale. The Shoreman family story deeply intertwined with the city's sporting heritage, unfurls in our latest episode, bringing to light a legacy of perseverance through struggles like domestic violence and alcoholism. Vinny's candid reflections on his upbringing, without traditional guidance, and how he carved a path to success, underscore the resilience embedded in his family's DNA—a narrative of strength and inspiration that's sure to resonate with anyone facing their own battles. Through our conversation, the echoes of Manchester's historical pulse reverberate as we trace Vinny's ancestry back to 1766, revealing not just a family's story, but the spirit of a city. We honor the memory of his gt Uncle, Benjamin Shoreman, a war veteran who fought in some of the bloodest battles of WWI. Vinny's reflections on his mother's unwavering fortitude and the indelible influence of his late brother Paul weave a poignant fabric of familial bonds, humour, and belief. Prepare to be moved by an episode that transcends a simple recounting of history, offering instead a powerful exploration of the human condition through the lens of one family's remarkable journey. To watch this episode on YouTube, Click Here! A huge thank you to today's sponsor, Witney Antiques To contact Dr Michala Hulme: www.michalahulme.com To contact Vinny Shoreman: www.theshoremansolution.com Support the show

This week, Michala is joined by TV presenter Matty White. In this emotional episode, we delve into the details behind Matty's family history and use DNA to tell him more about his ancestors and how they lived. It's an intimate voyage into identity, family secrets, and the threads that weave together the past and present. As we unearth the emotional narrative of learning about his family history, we see Matty answer some long-held questions about who he is and where he comes from. Get the tissues ready!! This is an emotional one!! To watch this episode on YouTube, Click Here! Massive thanks to this week's sponsor Witney Antiques. If you would like to contact Michala, you can do so at www.michalahulme.com You can contact Matty on social media @mattyfwhite Support the show

Ever felt like life has dealt you a bad hand, and there's no coming back from it? Well, Michala's guest for today, boxing legend Martin Murray – former British and Commonwealth Middleweight Champion – is the embodiment of the saying, 'Where there's a will, there's a way.' Martin takes us through his tumultuous past, from a tough upbringing and prison stints to finding salvation in boxing. His story is a testament to resilience and transformation and how every experience serves a purpose in our lives. But life doesn't always deal the same cards for everyone. Our journey takes a sombre turn as we unravel the heart-wrenching story of the Greenhalgh family. The tragic death of Elizabeth Greenhalgh, the repercussions on her son, John, and the war experiences of the Greenhalgh brothers are accounts that give us a glimpse into the dark side of life. These stories not only shed light on the struggles families go through during challenging times but also the impact they have on future generations. Family is an integral part of who we are, and tracing back our roots can often lead to fascinating discoveries. As we dig deeper into Martin Murray's lineage, we uncover intriguing connections and surprising stories. From the significance of Silkstone Street in his family tree to tracing back his roots to Ireland, Martin's family history is as captivating as his personal journey. And as we bring this episode to a close, we even share some tips on how you can start your own journey of uncovering your family tree. So, are you ready to embark on this journey of discovery, despair, and determination with us? To contact Michala, please visit http://michalahulme.com To purchase Martin's brilliant book 'Sinner and Saint: The Inspirational Story of Martin Murray', click here. A huge thank you to this week's sponsor, Witney Antiques. Support the show

What if the stories of your ancestors could reveal unexpected truths and reshape your understanding of family? Join Dr Michala Hulme for a captivating conversation with genealogist Daniel Loftus. Their journey begins with the roots of genealogy, as Daniel shares his personal experience of navigating through the intricate branches of his family tree, piecing together dates and facts that reveal fascinating family stories. As Michala and Daniel navigate through the history of Ireland's mother and baby homes, they reveal the heartbreaking stories of children who lived and died within these walls. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as they discuss Daniel's connection to this dark chapter of history and his efforts to honour these forgotten children through "Project Infant". He offers a hard-hitting analysis of the government's role and the ongoing investigation into these institutions, shedding light on a painful past that still echoes today. They wrap things up with a compelling discourse on finding relatives born in these homes. Daniel provides practical advice on how to find information on people who had a connection to the homes. Buckle up for a profound exploration of genealogy and the enduring legacy of Ireland's mother and baby homes. To contact Michala, please visit https://michalahulme.com or social media @drmichalahulme To contact Daniel, please visit https://danielsgenealogy.com or social media @danielmloftus Project Infant is looking for volunteers to help uncover the names of the mothers and children who died in these homes from this period of Irish history. If you want to get involved, please visit: https://projectinfant.ie/volunteer Support the show

Unearth the secrets of your past as we invite you to join our riveting conversation with Genealogy Jude, a passionate family history detective. Michala and Jude take you on a journey into the world of genealogy, enveloped in Jude's captivating tales of exploring old graveyards and discovering hidden records. We throw light on the revolutionary changes technology has brought to genealogy research, but don't forget to remind you of the irreplaceable value of stepping into archives and unravelling the mysteries hidden within. Get ready to delve into some mesmerising stories, like the tale of a great-great-grandfather who lost his arm in a railway accident and the exciting implications of AI's impact on genealogy. As we navigate through the intriguing paths of our past, we highlight the importance of employing creativity and using rich sources of local and social history. Rest assured, every step of your genealogy journey will be riddled with fascinating discoveries waiting to be made. Hold your breath as we dive into the deep sea of DNA technology and its revolutionary impact on genealogy research. From discovering unknown relatives to uncovering family secrets, DNA technology promises an exciting voyage of self-discovery. Sharing our favourite genealogical records, we discuss how these glimpses into the past offer invaluable insights into our ancestors' lives. Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey into your family's past? Michala's website: https://michalahulme.com/ Genealogy Jude's website: https://genealogyjude.com/ Support the show

WE ARE BACK WITH SEASON 2!!! Yes, Michala is back with your favourite family history podcast, and we are kicking off with a bang! Dream of uncovering your family's hidden past? Join us in a captivating conversation with genealogy enthusiast Jonny Perl, the founder of the brilliant DNA Painter website, whose quest for family history was kindled by his mother's tales of her ancestors. Ever wondered how DNA testing can help unearth your roots? We dive into the intriguing world of DNA research, with a focus on DNA Painter - an innovative tool developed by our guest Jonny Perl that visualizes and predicts relationships based on shared centimorgans (cM). Hear our surprising tales of unexpected DNA connections and learn how Jonny's tool has revolutionized genealogy research. We also take a closer look at "What Are the Odds?", a unique genealogy app designed to help you find unknown relatives. Lastly, we reveal the secrets of the Shared cM Project on DNA Painter, a breakthrough tool that pinpoints possible relationships based on shared DNA. Get a walk-through of the process, explore its latest features, and understand how it can aid your genealogical searches. We also shed light on various DNA testing companies, discussing their strengths and drawbacks, and how they've transformed genealogy research. Join us in this enlightening session with Jonny Perl, the genius behind DNA Painter, and discover the unparalleled power of DNA in your quest for family history. Websites mentioned on the show: www.michalahulme.com www.dnapainter.com https://dnapainter.com/tools/coverage https://thednageek.com/a-new-coverage-estimator-at-dna-painter/ https://dnapainter.com/blog/how-to-use-the-new-dna-coverage-tool/ https://www.legacytree.com/blog/genealogy-tools-dna-painter-coverage Support the show

Are you curious about your ancestors and their stories? Would you be surprised if your past held secrets you never imagined? Join me, Michala and my guest, Paul McNeil, as we uncover hidden truths from our pasts and learn that things aren't always as they appear. We share eerie tales of our personal experiences, including a chilling story of a piano playing by itself, possibly a sign from the beyond. The journey to the past can be challenging but rewarding. In our quest to unravel our roots, we grapple with historical documents like Bastardy records, birth certificates, and baptism records. We share insights on reading the subtle clues in these records, especially when it comes to tracing a child's father. Little hints like the use of 'natural child of' in Parish records or a middle name bearing the father's surname can lead us to hidden truths. Our conversation doesn't stop at historical records and their cryptic language. We dive into the world of DNA testing, exploring its potential in tracing our roots and unearthing family secrets. Paul shares his personal journey of using DNA testing to uncover the identity of his biological father, and we discuss how these tests can cluster related family members. So, buckle up and join us as we venture into genealogy, history, and some ghostly tales. You're in for a spooky ride! To contact Michala, you can do so via her website www.michalahulme.com Support the show

Ready to unearth the secrets behind your home's history? Join me, Dr. Michala Hulme, and my cherished guest, Melanie Backe-Hansen, a revered house historian, as we journey through the captivating world of house histories. Together, we discover the intricate links that bind family history, local history, and house history, highlighting the significance of understanding your home's past. At the same time, Mel unravels her personal journey into the realm of house histories, while imparting practical advice for those intrigued by their own homes' past. Venture with us as Mel and I meticulously piece together the past of a house, shedding light on the immense value of tax records in such research. We navigate through rich resources like the National Library of Scotland's Ordnance Survey maps, census returns, and more, which can all serve as a treasure trove of information. Additionally, we illuminate the enigmatic 1910 Valuation Record, discussing its relevance in taxation and the intriguing snapshot it provides from 1910 to 1915. This episode is your comprehensive guide to uncover the fascinating narratives hidden within your home. To contact Michala, you can do so via her website www.michalahulme.com If you would like to purchase one of Melanie's books (House Histories; A House Through Time; Historic Streets and Squares), you can get them on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/Melanie-Backe-Hansen/e/B006LTDUPG Support the show

Excitement ripples through every word when our special guest, Dr Nick Barratt, an esteemed genealogist and medieval historian, known for TV shows such as Who Do You Think You Are?, weaves tales of his intriguing journey into the world of genealogy. Unravelling family mysteries, Nick's fascinating discoveries about his own lineage are a testament not only to the power of DNA in genealogical research but also to our shared human curiosity about our roots. From unearthing his great-uncle's pre-Cold War Soviet connections to revealing his grandmother's hidden past, Nick's personal journey towards understanding his family history is a story you surely wouldn't want to miss. The conversation takes a profound turn as Michala and Nick delve into the emotional and transformative power of genealogy. Beyond data and DNA, they explore the human element in the quest for ancestral knowledge. They reflect on the emotional challenges that can arise when researching family history, the importance of understanding why we delve into our past, and how these insights can shape our present. As they navigate through this thought-provoking discussion, Nick shares how genealogy can bridge communities, give a voice to the forgotten, and offer us the opportunity to make a difference. As we approach the final chapter of this episode, the intricacies of TV research and personal family history come to light. Offering a fun twist to the conversation, Nick reveals his dream dinner guests from his family tree and his chosen menu for the occasion. Prepare to be enthralled by this captivating blend of history, genealogy, and personal narratives as we embark on this unforgettable journey into the past. Support the show

Prepare to be captivated as Michala embarks on a journey into the often-overlooked world of newspapers in genealogy research. She's joined by the brilliant Rose Staveley-Wadham from the British Newspaper Archive, who shares her wealth of knowledge on how to unlock the secrets hidden in old newspapers and breathe life into your family tree. From court reports to gossip columns, every page is a treasure trove of information just waiting to be unearthed. Intriguing stories from the past land right at our doorstep as Michala explains how newspapers unveiled the Hollywood career of a family member in the 1920s. Embrace the wisdom imparted by Rose as she shares invaluable tips on maximising newspaper research. No stone is left unturned - from niche publications to broadsheets, every piece of newsprint is a potential key to your family's past. Personal stories intertwine with practical tips as Rose candidly shares her own genealogy research journey. Discover the challenges she faced while tracing her family tree, her experience with 'Find My Past' and the British Newspaper Archive, and the unexpected surprises she uncovered along the way. Plus, find out who from Rose's family tree would be her chosen dinner guest and what she'd whip up for them. This episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to add depth and color to their family history research. To contact Michala please visit www.michalahulme.com If you would like some hits and tips on how to search the British Newspaper Archive, check out their excellent blogs https://blog.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/category/hints-tips/ Support the show

Have you ever found an old, faded photograph of an ancestor and wished you could breathe new life into it? Imagine turning monochromatic memories into vivid visuals or even catalyzing static pictures into dynamic avatars. In this engaging episode, we take a deep dive into the world of MyHeritage, an innovative platform that can transform your understanding of family history. We not only explore its captivating features like photo colorisation, image enhancement, and avatar creation but also create an enthralling AI-narrated Deep Story animation of my Nana Mary. Moving forward, we shift gears to delve into the exciting feature of MyHeritage, which uses AI to estimate the date a photograph was taken - it's like travelling back in time! To add more to your genealogical exploration, we explore Ancestry and Find My Past, a resource that now boasts an impressive collection of 231,000 new baptism records from Derbyshire spanning the period from 1524 to 1991. If you've hit a dead end in your family tree research, this episode offers valuable insights and resources. We wrap up by inviting your recommendations for future guests and stirring up the conversation around family history and genealogy. Get ready to journey back in time, rediscover your roots and enrich your family's legacy. www.michalahulme.com https://blog.myheritage.com/uk/2023/08/introducing-photodater-an-exclusive-new-feature-to-estimate-when-old-photos-were-taken-2/ Support the show

Are your ancestors whispering secrets from the 19th century, waiting for you to discover them? Embark on a thrilling journey with me, Dr Michala Hulme as we unearth these enigmas etched in death and burial records. Together, we'll decode the cryptic handwriting on pre-1812 records and navigate the Civil Registration Index, a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The 19th century was a time of trials and tribulations, its harsh realities reflected in child mortality rates. Urban areas teeming with life were also packed with perils for the young ones. Gain a new perspective on your family history as we harness the power of the 1911 census and shed light on common causes of death such as TB, cholera, and convulsions. How did these adversities shape the journey of your forebears? Let's trace the roots together. Lastly, we'll step into the somber world of 19th-century burial practices. Uncover the rise of joint-stock cemetery companies and the advent of municipal cemeteries, the silent witnesses to the cycle of life and death. How did the 19th-century burial acts shape these landscapes of remembrance? Let's find out together. Support the show

Welcome back, fellow history enthusiasts, to another captivating journey through the mystifying remnants of our ancestral past. This time, we traipse down the darker alleys of history, unearthing tales of mischief, misdeeds, and the evolution of the criminal justice system from the 18th to the 20th century. Joining Michala on this thrilling expedition is Paul McNeil, lending his expertise to shed light on the shadowy corners of our genealogical archives. From the audacious 1860's femme fatale who conned jewellers with a crafty gold-for-brass scam, to the enigma of the 'Cockney Golden Highlander,' we unravel stories that blur the line between fiction and truth. We also delve into the labyrinth of the 19th-century court system, giving you a glimpse into the struggles faced by the working-class in initiating a prosecution. Deciphering the nuances of petty sessions, quarter sessions, and assized courts, we explore how the 19th-century police system evolved and what it meant for our forebears. Our expedition takes a deeper turn as we sift through the UK prison records of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. From the social histories of those behind bars to the profound insights mugshots offer into the lives of our ancestors, we navigate through this trove of information. As we wrap up this journey, we bring to life the cunning exploits of William Redknapp, who manipulated the wage system of the 19th-century ship workers, and Walter Alfred Hargan, an ex-soldier caught in a deadly face-off with a local gang. So, prepare for a gripping tour through our shared criminal past, and get ready to uncover the clandestine world of aliases and the secrets to tracking criminals through Army and Navy records. Support the show

Get ready to step into the time machine with me, Michala, and our esteemed guest, Peter Higginbotham, also known as "Mr Workhouse". We're geared up to take you on a fascinating exploration of the history and evolution of workhouses in the UK. Join us as we unravel how this historical shift led to the Poor Relief Act of 1601, the Workhouse Test Act of 1720, and the boom of parish workhouses in the 1700s. We'll then take a deep breath and plunge into the 19th-century workhouse system. Together, we will examine the stark realities of segregation, stringent routines, and the meals that awaited the unfortunate inhabitants. We'll also take a peek at the workhouse cookbook to get a sense of the culinary experiences within. Our conversation will also bring to light the admission process, the religious practices, and the medical care offered to these inmates. This isn't your regular history lesson - we're going beyond the facts to grasp the human experience inside these walls. But hold on; our journey doesn't end there! We will discuss the concept of scattered homes that emerged in the 1890s, and the differences between them and cottage homes. We'll try to understand how children within the workhouse system fared compared to those outside of it, and how Peter Higginbottom's fascination with workhouses led him to create his detailed database. This is more than just retracing history; it's about understanding how the past has left an indelible imprint on the present. So, strap in and prepare for a history lesson you won't forget! To contact Michala, visit www.michalahulme.com Peter's workhouse website is www.workhouses.org.uk To watch the Oswestry Workhouse edition of Channel 4's The Great British Dig, visit https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-great-british-dig-history-in-your-garden/on-demand/72396-008 Support the show