Tuesday, March 1, 2011

My Genealogy

One of my passions is Genealogy. It was photos of my Victorian ancestors that inspired my love of the era and my fascination with the fashions. From grade school through high school I read every book about the 19th century, fiction & non fiction, that I could find. Little Women was one of my first reads, I read it over and over. My oldest daughter is even named after Meg in the story. Here is my childhood copy of my favorite book.




While researching I discovered that my English 3rd great-grandfather Samuel J. Martin was a Quartermaster Sergeant in the Civil War Union Army. 




I also learned that my 3rd Irish great-grandfather, from County Cavan Ireland, became a highly respected constable in the east end of Wilkes-Barre, PA in the late 1800's.





I enjoyed hearing the family stories and seeing old photos from my great grandmother Lucy Riley. I've collected over 100 antique family photos, many are identified with names and dates.



This was a very brazen picture in its day! My great grandmother Lucy Riley is on the right, c. 1900. She and her friends were lifting their skirts and showing their ankles!! My grandfather Anselm Riley took the photo, they were courting at the time, I guess that he didn't mind grandma's spunk. Now I know where I get it from. :)



Victoriana Lady Lisa- Bringing history to life since 2003

To contact- Victorianaladylisa@gmail.com

2 comments:

  1. Great photo! I never looked up my family's history before, I think it would be neat to see where it all began...Have a nice week!

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  2. How charming are you!
    I came from a direct link posted on Martha's blog..and I am your newest follower!
    I love all things vintage and Victorian too...and I know I will have fun perusing the pages of your blog!

    I treasure all of my mothers old black and white photos from Italy...
    Family history is where it's at!

    I hope you'll stop in and visit with me sometime.
    Ciao Bella!

    Creative Carmelina

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