Take your research back into the 1600s! Focus on how to find your earlier ancestors and explore life in the 17th Century with the Society of Genealogists resident genealogy guru Else Churchill.  Under the guidance of Else's expert tuition, you'll learn about a diverse set of records, archives and other genealogy resources. Plus, get hands on tips for dealing with record gaps and the complications you might expect to find when researching during a time of such political turmoil.  Plus enjoy time sharing interests and family history with your fellow classmates, who are guaranteed to be just as passionate about genealogy as you are!

The 8-week course covers: 

• England in the 17^th Century
• Parish Registers and Records
• Religion and Tax
• Local County Gentry Families and Networks
• 17^th Century Towns and Cities 
• The Civil Wars in 100 Objects with guest speaker Andrew Hopper
• Finding Women in London’s Court of Orphans,1660-1720 with guest speaker Jess Ayres
• Church Courts - Probate and Other Records
• Other Court Records - Quarter Sessions, Civil Chancery and Equity Courts, Court of Chivalry, High Commission

Using case studies, document workshops and small group discussions alongside lectures you will learn about England in the 17th century, the sources available to research your ancestors in this period, and what their life would have been like. 

• 20% Discount for all Society of Genealogists Members
• Recordings available until 20/08/2026 for everyone who pre-books

Click here for information about our events.  Contact events@sog.org.uk if you have any questions.