Articles by Ellie Ayton

Thousands of British men volunteered or were conscripted into the British Army during the First World War, with regiments raised across the country. But some regiments were different. Pals battalions offered men the chance to enlist alongside their friends, neighbours and colleagues - an extra incentive to go to war that proved popular in local communities.Men fought shoulder-to-shoulder with their loved ones, but when Pals battalions suffered heavy losses, it had devastating consequences for the towns and cities left behind.

In August 1940, Britain's cities were under constant threat of enemy attack. Amidst the darkness of blackouts, Luftwaffe bombs lit up the sky.As homes, factories and schools were destroyed, volunteers like air-raid-precaution (ARP) wardens and auxiliary firemen offered up their spare time to protect the public.Anderson and Morrison shelters were as much a part of everyday life as rationing, and it was up to ARP wardens to ensure people reached them safely.It’s estimated that over 60,000 civilians were killed

Imagine the thundering beat of an excited heart as your great-grandfather signed his enlistment papers, after waiting in line for hours with his friends. That thunder would soon become gunfire in the trenches.By examining his experiences, we can paint a richer picture of what life was like for the average First World War soldier, affectionately known as 'Tommy'.Many of us have a First World War ancestor in our family tree. Stories may have been passed down in your

Billed as a Succession-esque historical drama, Netflix’s House of Guinness dives into the saga behind one of Ireland’s most famous dynasties – the Guinness family, who founded the Guinness Brewery way back in the mid-1700s.Like a pint settled just right, the Guinness story balances bitterness and sweetness, heritage and change. But how much of this dramatic eight-episode series is grounded in fact? Were the Guinness siblings really as divided as the series suggests?Let’s delve into the records and

John Cruickshank’s story is one of bravery, determination and sacrifice. A Second World War pilot, he helped to defend British vessels in the Norwegian Sea at significant cost to himself. Then, he flew while seriously injured to help his remaining crew make it safely home.With his passing, a living link to one of history’s most defining chapters is gone. But we can still keep his story alive. What is the Victoria Cross?: The Victoria Cross is no ordinary medal.

Family history isn’t just names and dates. It’s real people, real lives, and often, unexpected truths.If you’ve ever thought about starting your family tree, or you’re thinking about returning to it, a little inspiration might be all you need.Sometimes all it takes is one record, one photograph, or even one conversation to completely transform your understanding of your family and the lives of those who came before you. “My ancestor was a survivor”: One quiet evening, Amanda was

There’s something quite special about a multi-generational photograph. You may have one in your own family, perhaps when your first child was born, and you’re pictured with your parent and grandparent. It’s a landmark moment for your family, the meeting of the past, present, and future in a single second, preserved for generations to come.If you can get three or even four generations together for that photo, that’s quite a feat. Five? Even better. But how many family trees

Outrageous is a story of betrayal, scandal and sisterly bonds set in the 1930s, as war looms on the horizon and family bonds are tested. It was released on U&Drama and Britbox on 18 June 2025 and boasts an all-star cast. Who is in the cast of Outrageous?: It stars Bridgerton’sBridgerton’s Bessie Carter (daughter of Jim Carter, of Downton AbbeyDownton Abbey fame, and Imelda Staunton from The CrownThe Crown) as Nancy Mitford, the eldest of the Mitford siblings.Also

We analysed over 150 years’ worth of census records to uncover the astonishing lack of detail attributed to the lives of millions of women throughout history.Representing 60% of the working-age female population, many women were overlooked in census records due to a ‘broad brush’ approach. These official records often reported women’s identities based on their marital status or household duties. As a result, many broader activities and achievements were left unrecognised. One surprising example uncovered by researchers is political activist and

It’s vital we remember moments that shaped our nation’s history. The Second World War affected every family, every street.Eight decades later, how are we remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those who made it home, and those who lived through a country under the shadow of warfare?Here at Findmypast, we’re striving to ensure every story is remembered. But we all may have some work to do, as worrying stats show that VE Day might be falling out