The Hampshire Family Historian | Vol.48 No.1 | June 2021

Local Group Programmes

Contact: Tony Sinclair Tel: 07518 183211 winchester@hgs-online.org.uk

Winchester Group

Meetings are normally at 7:15pm on 3rd Thursdays in the Littleton Millennium Hall.

(January) My Seafaring Ancestors – Kay Lovell The first meeting of 2021 was very encouraging, when a good number of local members joined in as well as two from Canada and New Zealand. We had got together to hear Kay, the Group Organiser for the Romsey Group. Kay spoke of the impact some of the stories had on future generations of her family and we were reminded of the story of SS Flying Enterprise and Captain Frederick Daniel of the salvage tug Turmoil. We also heard of the impact on Southampton and her family of the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Kay also stressed how much is still held in the Southampton Archives, particularly a record of all merchant seaman. (February) Family History - How to get your stuff organised! – Jane Fox Jane’s message was to record everything - even the negative but take your time and stressed you should examine any documents thoroughly. It is important to save any downloaded files onto your computer and name accurately. She emphasised how important it was to note sources for every fact or piece of data and compile a documented list to show where the information was found. This is important as it enables you to pick up research after a break and see exactly where you are. It also enables you to revisit sources so that others can continue your research. Knowing that the document or information comes from: A Primary source, created at the time of the event or a Secondary source would be a transcript - maybe a copy from the General Records Office or maybe a questionable source which will need checking for its trustworthiness. The aim should be to get as many primary sources of information. Although accounts of family members might seem watertight, they do need to be verified. Jane talked about the various means to do the recording. Paper recording can present problems, so it could be time to think outside of the box and maybe use a family group sheet for each member of the family or families. If using paper recording you do need to think of how you link one document to many people. By allocating a numbering system for individuals. Numbering is the easy way to keep paper records up to date. Computers are used by many to access data and keep records. As these records can be shared but there are questions of privacy clauses, importing and exporting data and cost. There was a lively question and answer session based on many good and not so good experiences. This is based on what computer system you use as not all on line family history sites are Mac compatible so it is wise to check these things carefully.

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