Author: Chiddicks Family Tree

I began researching my family tree around 15 years ago to initially find out more about my Father who died when I was three years old and I haven’t stopped searching yet. I also have a keen interest in Military History in particular WW1.

The Boy Behind the Titanic Photo: The Story of Edward (Ned) Parfett

~ Chiddicks Family Tree ~ 25 Comments

Sometimes we discover a story that's so remarkable that even though it's not a member of your own family, we feel compelled to make sure that the story is told. The photograph of the young boy standing outside the White Star Line offices in London, holding an Evening News poster announcing ‘Titanic Disaster Great Loss … Continue reading The Boy Behind the Titanic Photo: The Story of Edward (Ned) Parfett

My Visit to The National Memorial Arboretum

~ Chiddicks Family Tree ~ 10 Comments

A few years ago I was fortunate enough to visit the National Arboretum in Staffordshire, which holds over 300 memorials to those lives that have sadly been lost in conflict and civilian life. The Arboretum stands as a place which honours the fallen and recognises their service and their sacrifice for their country. It was first … Continue reading My Visit to The National Memorial Arboretum

DNA Kits – Should They Come With a Warning?

~ Chiddicks Family Tree ~ 20 Comments

Originally published April 2023 — updated for 2026 Note: This article has been updated to reflect new insights, personal experience, and the evolving landscape of DNA testing. A revised version of this post is also available on Substack. In recent years, DNA testing for family history has grown at an incredible rate. If you’re researching your … Continue reading DNA Kits – Should They Come With a Warning?

How To Become A Family History Detective Using My ABC Guide

~ Chiddicks Family Tree ~ 9 Comments

Updated and Revised Version (April 2026) In many ways, being a family history researcher can feel like being a ‘detective’, hunting for clues to solve the latest ‘mystery’. You may have a few uncorroborated facts that you have pieced together, but it is that one piece of ‘critical evidence’ that is missing which prevents you … Continue reading How To Become A Family History Detective Using My ABC Guide

Ethical Dilemmas and How To Approach Them

~ Chiddicks Family Tree ~ 35 Comments

All families have secrets, and it’s almost inevitable that when we undertake genealogical research, that family secrets will emerge. Discovering family secrets might be wonderful, but they can often be distressing, upsetting and even confusing, for those involved. We might even find ourselves having to stop our research and reflect on what we have discovered … Continue reading Ethical Dilemmas and How To Approach Them