Book Review by RQG Member Linda Hammond

‘Tracing your Belfast Ancestors: A Guide for Family Historians’ by Chris Paton
(2023, Pen & Sword Family History – ISBN 9781526780331 )

Chris Paton’s “Tracing Your Belfast Ancestors” isn’t your typical genealogy handbook – it’s a refreshing stroll through Belfast’s familial past, guided by Paton’s knack for weaving history into an engaging tapestry.

The journey begins with a captivating exploration of Belfast’s last 400 years, where Paton skilfully transforms historical information into an accessible and engaging narrative.

Chapter 2 delves into Belfast’s geographical quirks – parishes, baronies, poor law unions and the city’s intriguing split between Antrim and Down. Paton injects a touch of linguistic flair by exploring the influence of Irish Gaelic and Ulster Scots on the English spoken in Belfast.

The subsequent chapter is an invitation to explore Belfast’s repositories and museums with Paton as your knowledgeable companion. He unveils must-visit spots offering tips to help you make the most of your visit and details about their main holdings.

Chapter 4 leads you through the digital labyrinth of genealogy exploring Paton’s recommendations for online repositories.  As well as the main sites, he also details lesser-known but Belfast focussed sites of interest including forums.

A guided tour of records, including BMD records, census returns, street directories, electoral records, valuation records, and probate records, from early years to the aftermath of the 1921 partition is the focus for the next two chapters. Paton navigates the complexities, offering insights into both cost-effective and comprehensive research approaches.  The non-conformist section was of particular interest covering all the main denominations.  Paton’s use of case studies also makes this an enlightening read.

Chapter 7 is a curated exploration of Belfast’s key institutions, shedding light on the city’s social fabric through records of schools, hospitals, asylums, workhouses, and sports teams.  Again, the inclusion of case studies highlights the plethora of information there is to discover on the city’s inhabitants.

In the next chapter on occupations, Paton transforms mundane job details into captivating stories. Whether your ancestor served in the military, or worked in the medical profession, was a member of the clergy or a shipbuilder, there’s something for everyone here.

Chapter 9 is a short chapter serving as a catch-all for miscellaneous genealogical treasures, including newspapers, media, and a DNA overview.

Paton’s writing style strikes a balance between clarity and engagement, offering a guide that is both informative and accessible. This isn’t just a genealogy book; it’s a companion on your journey to uncovering Belfast roots.

Chris Paton’s website www.scotlandsgreateststory.co.uk

Book cover photo provided by kind permission from Pen & Sword Books 

 

Linda Hammond
March 2024

Linda Hammond holds a Masters Degree (Distinction) in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies, and a Higher Certificate in Genealogy (IHGS).

She has over 30 years experience in genealogical research working with private individuals and companies. Linda has worked as a genealogical tutor for many years and is currently a tutor with the University of Strathclyde postgraduate genealogy programme.

 

—————-
Check the availability of this publication in your local library or search online booksellers. Varying formats may be available in hardback, paperback, and Kindle/e-book & downloadable audio formats, and different book covers may be displayed than the image provided in the book review.

Do you have a recent book you would recommend to fellow genealogists, family history researchers & students on topics such as:

Family history * Genealogy * Research methods * DNA * Heraldry * Palaeography * Life stories *
* Historic places, people, groups, events? * and other related areas *

If you have a ‘good read’ to recommend, please contact the RQG Comms Group  comms@qualifiedgenealogists.org

All we require is the Book title, Author(s), ISBN number (if known), and a short paragraph to describe the theme and why you’d recommend the book. We aim to include your review on the RQG website, news and our social media platforms @RegQualGenes