Society of Genealogists

09/04/2026

On Mental Health Day, it’s worth reflecting on how family history can help us better understand the lives (and challenges) of those who came before us.

Our forthcoming course, Mental Health & Family History, offers a carefully guided and supportive space to explore how mental health was experienced and recorded in the past. Through case studies and archival sources, we’ll look at topics such as asylum care in the 19th century, contested confinements, life after discharge, and how families were affected.

Importantly, the course also considers how we approach these histories today with sensitivity, respect, and care in how stories are told, including writing about su***de and mental illness. It also touches on how family history research can support more meaningful communication with people living with dementia.

💻 Online sessions throughout the day
🎧 Recordings available until 11 June 2026 for all who pre-book

This is a thoughtful and compassionate exploration for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health and family history.

👉 Book your place: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/1745571

08/04/2026

Still time to join us this week for Dave Annal’s talk: Charles Darwin: A Life in the Archives + those attending in person can enjoy a relaxed, complimentary drinks reception where you can meet other family historians, share stories, and spark new connections over refreshments.

What can archives really tell us about one of history’s most famous figures? Rather than retelling a familiar biography, this session explores Darwin’s life through original documents and records, revealing how archival sources can bring even the most well-known lives into sharper, richer focus.

For family historians, it’s a chance to see how the same methods can transform your own research - adding depth, context, and unexpected insight.

With over 40 years of experience, Dave brings both expertise and practical guidance you can apply to your own work.

Attend in person at the Society of Genealogists (London) or join online via Zoom.

👉 Book your place: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/2174275

In Person talk with the option to watch Zoom by Dave Annal, professional researcher

07/04/2026

A fascinating perspective from Nicola Johnson, whose work often uncovers the human stories behind historical events.

We’re delighted that Nicola will be joining us later this month for Fur, Feathers and Fate: Animals of the Titanica, looking at the animals aboard the Titanic and what their stories reveal about the lives (and losses) of those on board.

Drawing on her expertise in maritime and Titanic research, it promises to be a thoughtful and distinctive look at a well-known story.

🗓 30 April | 💻 Online

I’ve spent some time recently lost in the incredible collections at the Society of Genealogists in London. 📚✨

One of the highlights has been the stunning examples of heraldry in the older volumes. It’s like a secret code to the past! While I have to laugh at some of the 19th-century genealogists who tried to link families back to ancient monarchs (or even to God!), the artistry of the heraldic shields they created is just beautiful. 🛡️

I first properly fell in love with this 'code' during my Master’s in Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies at the University of Strathclyde - it was easily one of my favourite parts of the course.

Are you looking for help deciphering a family crest or understanding the heraldry in your own tree? Drop me a line! Even if I can’t solve the puzzle myself, I likely know the exact person who can. 🔍

07/04/2026

England’s oldest family business has been in the same hands for over 500 years… across 25 generations of one family.

R.J. Balson & Son has been trading for an extraordinary 511 years, now based at 9 West Allington in Bridport, Dorset—its home since 1892. Today, the business is run by Richard John Balson, the 25th generation to carry forward this remarkable legacy.

From the days of horse and cart to the modern shop we see today, the business has evolved - but the family connection remains unchanged. Richard will share personal memories of life and work in West Allington, along with what he learned working alongside his father, Donald, for over 45 years.

Reaching a quincentennial milestone like this is almost unheard of—the first time any British family firm has achieved it. And the story doesn’t end here—the Balson family are already looking ahead to the next 500 years.

👉 Book your place: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/2154517

What does 25 generations of continuity look like in your own family history?

06/04/2026

🥩 R.J. Balson & Son – England’s Oldest Family Business

Join Richard J. Balson, the 25th generation running the Bridport, Dorset butchery, as he shares stories from over 500 years of family business. From horse-and-cart days to modern trade, hear his memories of working alongside his late father, Donald, and discover how the Balsons have reached a Quincentennial milestone – a first for any British family firm!

16 April 2026, 2-3pm
💻 Online via Zoom

Book your place now: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/2154517

05/04/2026

Want to grow your genealogy business? 🖋️ Your blog could be your most powerful tool!

Join Gudrun Lauret for How to Use Your Blog Effectively to Support Your Genealogy Business and discover how just a few well-written posts can boost your visibility, attract clients, and make your expertise shine. You’ll get tips on what to write, how to engage readers, and even turn your blog into a simple, effective marketing tool.

The workshop includes a live Q&A and feedback on your own content.

10 April 2026, 10:30–11:30
💻 Online via Zoom

Upgrade to Gold for £15 to watch live, access the recording, 200+ past talks, and free entry to future Gold events.

Book your spot now: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/2317152

04/04/2026

If Irish family history has ever left you feeling stuck, you’re not alone. The records can seem familiar—but it’s often the smallest detail, like a townland name, that unlocks everything.

That’s why we’re pleased to share this upcoming course from Irish Genealogical Research Society -

Beginning Irish Research with Jill Williams starts on 15 April (online via Zoom, 6:30–8:30pm, 8 weekly sessions).

Perfect for beginners, it will guide you through key Irish records, explain common pitfalls, and give you practical tools to make real progress—covering everything from census and land records to lesser-known sources.

✨ Book by Easter Monday and receive two bonus Irish-focused talks included.

If you’ve been meaning to tackle your Irish ancestry, this is an excellent place to start.

Find out more: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/1608869

03/04/2026

✝️ As the Easter weekend begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the traditions that shaped our ancestors’ lives.

From parish customs to seasonal celebrations, Easter has long left its mark on the records we use today. Read our blog to explore the connections between Easter and genealogy, and how this time of year can offer valuable clues for your family history research.

Take a moment this Good Friday to discover something new:

April marks the season of Easter, with its themes of life, death, and resurrection. For genealogists, life and death are at the heart of all we do. Through the study of family history, we can bring the dead back to life (albeit not quite as powerfully as through the resurrection). Genealogists tend....

03/04/2026

What can archives really tell us about one of history’s most famous figures?

Join Dave Annal for Charles Darwin: A Life in the Archives, a fascinating talk that uncovers Darwin’s story through original documents and records, offering a fresh perspective especially for family historians.

Instead of the usual biography, this session reveals how archival sources can bring even the most well-known lives into sharper, richer focus—and what that means for your own research.

9 April 2026,15:30–16:30
Attend in person at the Society of Genealogists (London) or join online via Zoom

With over 40 years’ experience, Dave brings deep expertise and practical insight you can apply to your own family history work.

👉 Book your place: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/2174275

In Person talk with the option to watch Zoom by Dave Annal, professional researcher

02/04/2026

The April 2026 issue of the Genealogy Gazette is here, and it’s had a makeover!

We’ve refreshed the design to make it easier than ever to find the articles that matter most to you. Take a look at our new, improved layout and enjoy a smoother reading experience.

As always, you’ll find plenty inside — including freebies, expert tips, and the latest family history news.

Start reading now: https://sog.org.uk/news/the-genealogy-gazette-april-2026/

02/04/2026

Ready to take your family history research further?

Our Family History Skills Course: Stage 2 is designed for those who know the basics and want to go deeper — helping you break through brick walls and uncover the stories behind your ancestors’ lives.

Over 12 weeks, you’ll explore the records and techniques used by professional genealogists, from military and criminal records to migration, trades, maps, and even DNA. It’s a practical, engaging way to build real confidence in your research.

You’ll learn alongside expert tutors, with time for questions, access to recordings, and a community of like-minded researchers to support you along the way.

The course runs online via Zoom on Tuesday evenings from 21 April to 7 July 2026, 18:00–20:00.

Book your place: https://portal.sog.org.uk/Event/view/1430059

01/04/2026

Are you using Family Tree Maker - or thinking about getting started?

The Family Tree Maker Roadshow is coming to the Society of Genealogists, and it’s a fantastic chance to build your confidence, pick up practical tips, and unlock features you might not even know exist.

You’ll learn directly from the experts behind the software, with plenty of hands-on guidance, whether you’re a beginner or a long-time user. It’s also a great opportunity to meet other genealogists, swap ideas, and get inspired by how others are using Family Tree Maker in their research.