June 2025 UPDATE:

We are a small research community designed to support and share members’ study of their family histories using a variety of different approaches. We operate as a small, self-help organisation to assist with getting started and overcoming methodological problems. All that is required is a curiosity to explore families and to share both frustrating dilemmas and solutions for overcoming them. The forum provides an opportunity to celebrate discoveries and to examine evidence underpinning family stories. We are all learning from one another and beginners are welcome. By sharing what is being found we can sometimes attach fresh insight and meanings to whatever has been uncovered

We launched our family history group in October 2018. Members have approached the work from multiple perspectives including traditional record archive searching and innovative online genealogy incorporating the latest DNA analyses and interpretation.

The members of the group have a varied range of knowledge around genealogical research and those with the most experience are always willing to help and support the ‘newbies,’ Sometimes, one-to-one sessions are arranged for those unfamiliar with the vast range of websites and resources available on line.

Not all members are digging back into their family history. You can research the history of a building, an organization, your village. All you need is enthusiasm and an interest in history.

Each meeting has time to listen to exciting new discoveries and help members break through any brick walls causing frustration. Mutual support and encouragement is our priority.

All members can celebrate their family history discoveries and to seek group support to overcome obstacles and challenges. Everyone has found new ancestors and has extended their family stories. The key successes come from collaboration and what we learn from one another. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic we made memorable site visits to the Derbyshire Records Office in Matlock and the Workhouse in Worksop, Notts. Some of our activity focuses on local perspectives and some is international with emigration stories. Currently, we meet at 10.30 – 12.30 at Wirksworth Town Hall Council Chambers on the second Wednesday of each month.

Members have affiliations with regional family history societies and a variety of online genealogical organisations. We currently have no openings for new members but expressions of interest will be recorded. There is no requirement of previous experience in family history, however it helps to have a curious mind and a willingness to begin or extend an investigation into one’s ancestry.

If joining us appears attractive to you, please contact us via the email link above and we can address any queries you have about participation.

Genealogists might find the following website of interest as it has been created by David Green of our group showcasing his research with the Nottingham Rugby History Group. https://www.nottinghamrugbyhistory.co.uk/category/updates/

• Ann Read's family history poem