Johnson, Julie, Kathleen

Description

I am a PhD student, writer, speaker, and workshop presenter with over two decades of experience in historical and genealogical research.

My journey began in the late 1990s, sparked by a fascination with local history and the vivid stories passed down through generations, accounts of fortune, fame, achievement, and the occasional scandal. Though these narratives have evolved over time, I’ve never tired of hearing them. What truly captivated me was discovering documents that either confirmed long-held beliefs or corrected cherished myths.
One of my most formative experiences was my first visit to the London records office, before the Internet became widespread. There, I obtained my first vital certificates, which helped solve puzzles and led me to uncover a long-lost branch of my family. That experience ignited a lifelong dedication to archival research.
After more than twenty years of independent study and several online courses to refine my expertise, I recognised the value of formal academic training.

This led me to enrol in the MSc programme in Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies at the University of Strathclyde, which I completed between 2021 and 2024.

I now hold a Master of Science degree in this field and am currently pursuing a PhD in History. My doctoral research focuses predominantly on Suffolk workhouses and the transformations brought about by the 1834 Poor Law Act.
I am a full member of the Register of Qualified Genealogists, a public directory of professionals who have achieved accredited qualifications in genealogy and related disciplines. I am also a recognised Associate of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA).
In addition to my academic and professional credentials, I serve as a trustee of the Suffolk Family History Society, where I contribute to preserving and promoting the county’s genealogical heritage. I maintain full insurance and comply with data protection regulations, and I am an active member of various local and national history societies.
As a regular contributor to magazines, I write on topics that blend historical insight with personal narrative. I also deliver talks and host workshops that explore genealogy, archival research, and social history, bringing the past to life for diverse audiences. Through these events, I’ve proudly supported many local charities, helping raise awareness and funds for community initiatives.