Often viewed as a rural retreat for London residents, Surrey presents unique challenges for genealogical research due to its shifting boundaries over the 19th and 20th centuries. This talk will help you build a solid foundation for exploring your Surrey roots with confidence, guiding you through the complexities of tracing your Surrey ancestry, offering strategies to streamline your research journey. Learn about the essential archives and genealogical sources available, both online and in-person, and gain insights into where to find support from local Family History Societies.
Discount code: surrey25 (valid at Familytreewebinars.com)
Valid through: July 15, 2025
This engaging webinar, part of the England Counties Research Series by Legacy Family Tree Webinars, focuses on tracing ancestral roots in the historic county of Surrey. Presented by experienced genealogist and legal historian Sarah Pettyfer, the session delves into Surrey’s complex administrative evolution, its rich historical context, and the abundant archival resources available to family historians. Sarah’s expert guidance makes this a must-watch for anyone with roots in this unique county, especially those navigating shifting boundaries and diverse record holdings.
Understanding Surrey’s Shifting Boundaries
One of the biggest challenges in Surrey research is its complex history of boundary changes. From the formation of Greater London in 1888 to the ongoing restructuring of registration districts through the 20th century, many areas now considered part of London—including Lambeth, Southwark, and Wandsworth—were historically in Surrey. Recognizing these changes is essential for locating accurate records.
Archival Resources and Where to Find Them
Essential records for Surrey research are held across multiple repositories. The Surrey History Centre in Woking is the primary archive, while records for former Surrey parishes now in London boroughs are at the London Metropolitan Archives. Researchers must also consider the Hampshire Record Office and Lambeth Palace Archives due to ecclesiastical jurisdictions. Many church and probate records, including wills and bishop’s transcripts, are digitized and accessible via Ancestry and Findmypast.
Occupational and Industrial Clues to Ancestry
Surrey’s rural and affluent heritage offers clues to ancestral occupations. While it lacked a dominant industry, it featured agriculture, market gardening, gunpowder production, and watermill-powered trades. Tracing these occupational paths can illuminate the lives of ancestors and direct researchers to estate papers, land tax records, and local newspapers, many now available online.
Curious to learn more?
Watch the full webinar to explore detailed historical maps, jurisdictional shifts, and strategies for overcoming genealogical roadblocks unique to Surrey. Sarah Pettyfer provides a wealth of knowledge, including lesser-known resources, research tips, and a preview of her upcoming book that dives even deeper into Surrey genealogy.
For those passionate about uncovering their Surrey lineage, the accompanying syllabus offers a comprehensive guide with maps, archival links, and record breakdowns—an invaluable tool for both amateur and advanced genealogists. Be sure to explore these resources and elevate your Surrey family history research today.
Facebook
X
Syllabus
Looking forward to 1) viewing the material again once upload, and 2) studying the syllabus.
It was a marvellously succinct tour of an area that I knew was genealogically complex, but I didn’t know that it was THAT complex. I now know about a lot more resources than I thought existed. I’m looking forward to finding Sarah’s book.
Very useful information not only where to find records, what records are available but now I understand the complexity of Surrey.
Surrey seems like a complicated area to research, but these English county webinars are sure helpful. Thank you for providing them.
Lots of facts to take in, and the maps and information about boundary changes were particularly interesting. Thank you!
Sarah presented so much information in a clear, concise and easy to follow manner, especially how Surrey’s boundaries have changed in time. This is a great resource to watch if you’re searching in Surrey.
lots of good info. Appreciated the info on how the boundaries have changed multiple times over the centuries
I found this webinar extremely interesting. There was lots of information and talk about the areas of Surrey that might have been overwhelming for someone just starting to investigate family. I grew up in Surrey and am familiar with all the names and places but I think some participants may have found it difficult to follow. Sarah is a mine of information and a great presenter. Thank you.