Gypsy - Family History & Genealogy Message Board

GYPSY BORN GYPSY BREAD

REVA — 18 Sep 2000 7:52:26 GMT

I AM FROM GYPSYES MY GRANDFATHER NAME WAS HARRY SMITH AND HIS MOTHER WAS MARY LOVELL HIS FATHER WAS LACY SMITH I HAVE A COPY OF MY GFATHERS BIRTH CERT. WHICH STATES HIS MOTHER WAS A FORTUNE TELLER.DOYOU HAVE ANY IFRO ON THEM

Romany surnames - Southern England?

jules1723 — 9 May 2008 8:52:24 GMT

Hi there - some of my surnames are Ayres (Wiltshire), Bassett, Bray, Cox (Hampshire/Wiltshire/Dorset), Golding, Hibberd (Wiltshire), Hickman (Oxfordshire), Hiscock (Wiltshire), Loftus, Martin (Sussex), Peacock, Pearce (Surrey), Plunkett, Smith, Woodcock. Some of these names I've been able to trace back to Ireland and Lancashire.

I was emailing a Romany friend today about Romany surnames and ended up at the Romany & Traveller Family History Society; I found all of the above surnames as possibly Romany on the lists on their website. I have no knowledge of a Romany background; does anyone know how/if I can establish whether these names are Romany or not? Where I'm able to find Census entries, the occupations tend to be blacksmiths, agricultural labourers etc.

I'm adopted and while I've traced my family back, I have no contact with my birth family, so unfortunately I can't pick anyone's brain on this.

Many thanks - any suggestions gratefully received,
Jules
(London, UK)

LYDIA COOPER

SandraBridges35 — 11 Oct 2008 7:29:46 GMT

" LYDIA COOPER " Any one know or heard of a woman by that name? I am looking for my birth mother. I was born in 1939 or 1940. I would appreciate any information that any one has to give. Thank you, Fran Beck(sbridges31213045@aol.com)

Stanleys, Coopers and Wells (Romany Romnichel)

m stanley — 27 Feb 2001 3:21:42 GMT

Hello, Im a 23 year old Romany girl. my daddis is a Stanley, my mammis's maiden nav was Cooper and her mammis's maiden nav was Wells. My daddis's mammis is Ida. I have just 1 sibling, she is 2 years older then mandy. My immediate folkie jivs mainly in NY, CT and VT.

I dont want to lel to personal on adoy, because ya never jin what kinda dinlos are vaddering at duvver. So i wont get too specific with navving my folkie. So only 1 nav will be dayed. Either first or last nav. Not first AND last.

My mammis and daddis say they are 100% therefore meaning I am 100% gypsy as well.

I would love to jin more about my folkie, like when did my folkie move to the US? Who were my great ancestors? and also i would like to jin more of our language. Like some of the every divis words. In my family when we rocker Romnis, we use english words with it. I want to learn how to rocker whole sentences without having to use English. That way gaudjas wont be able to understand anything im penning. ;-)
Also, i want to learn how to spell the words too.

if anyone can help me, please reply or email me thank you.

Midgy.

(they call me Midgy. but thats not my real nav.. i HATE that suvvin knick nav hahaha)

joseph lee

jenkinss7 — 11 Oct 2008 1:42:56 GMT

i am trying to trace the family of joseph lee born 1858 married elvira burton approx 1880-1890 i think in caerphilly had 5 children.

Rumnichel Whorton, Warton, Wharton, Worton, etc

dainwarton1 — 24 Jun 2008 9:51:23 GMT

I am looking for information on a Melvin L Worton(or any of the spellings above) he was Born around 1898 and died in texes in 1959. He is my great-grandfather and was married to Goldie Briar(Bryer). They had three kids that i know of Eddie (my grandfather) Gladys and Emma(She married a Stanley) anyways it is hard to track down rumnichel as it seems every document has a different spelling of the name.

Also if anyone has any Bryars in their family Goldie's dad was Ollie and mother Delia, we dont know if Delia had any syblings or her maiden name. My grandmother's maiden name was Ellingwood a gorger name, but her mother was Ines Jeffery who's father was Leonard Jeffery and mother was Charllote Attwell. Please feel free to message me if you have any iformation i am trying to put this together for my father while his memory lasts.

Romany USA census records web page updated

LOCKEroots — 14 Sep 2008 6:03:54 GMT

For anyone who is interested, I have recently updated the
USA census records for Romany / Travelers who migrated to the USA.

http://lockeroots.home.comcast.net/~lockeroots/GypsyCensusRe...

Stanley or Burke: Gypsies in Ohio

michaelzargarov — 23 Jul 2003 4:15:07 GMT

I am trying to research family history.

My paternal grandmother's name, on my father's birth certificate is: Bertha Burke.
It says she was born in Portsmouth Ohio, in 1875. My father told me that she was born Gypsy, and that she had been raised by an adoptive family.
Some months ago, a professor from the University of Texas gave a presentation on Gypsies at the Houston Holocaust Museum. I showed him a photograph of my grandmother and he immediately recognized her facial characteristics as being those of the "Stanley" tribe of Gypsies in Ohio.

Is it possible that you have either records or old photographs which I could compare with? If you are willing, I can send a scan of her picture.

Thanks so much.
Michael

BALL gypsies in England

katrinamaidens1 — 1 Sep 2003 8:03:15 GMT

I just posted this as a response to another message, but thought I would post it separately, just in case the names ring a bell to anyone else who has been searching for gypsies in England. Thanks to anyone who can help!

My Great-Grandfather's name was Tom Ball born in 1889 or 1890 in Derbyshire, England. He died in Canada in 1976. His parents were John Ball and Annie (maiden name unknown). John was probably born in Manchester, England and Annie was born in Rumania in either 1867 or 1868. She died in Canada in 1951. They must have immigrated (?) to Canada sometime before 1915 when my Grandfather was born.

I know that they lived as gypsies and have travelled with the Barnum & Bailey circus. I have seen an old newspaper clipping of one of the family's caravans that had caught on fire, killing a baby named Matthew Ball. Unfirtunately, I haven't been able to track down the newspaper clipping again, so I am unsure as to where this might have happened.

I was looking around at some of the websites, including one that had the 1881 census for gypsies, travellers, and I did see a John and Brittannia ages 27, 23, but this would make her (Annie's) age on her death certificate incorrect. She would only have been 13 in 1881. I also found a Tom Ball in the 1891 census at age 11 in Derbyshire, but without paying the charge, couldn't get any additional information.

Thanks again!

Katrina Ball

Epps ancestry

CarolynArchambault — 19 Oct 2003 9:38:55 GMT

Hello,

I would like to contact others researching Epps or Humpstone Ashford Kent circa 1861. (travelling gypsy family)

Cheers, Carolyn

Romany DNA project web site up

LOCKEroots — 9 May 2008 10:21:04 GMT

I just uploaded the new Romany DNA project web site. The site is still under construction so bear with me while I spruce it up and add more content.

http://home.comcast.net/~GypsyDNA/RomanyDNAproject.html

Anyone know anything about Romnichels named Small?

katincross — 14 Oct 2004 8:15:01 GMT

Don't kick me out...I'm half Romnichel and half gorger. I'm proud of my Romnichel heritage...was raised in fear of the gorgers finding out who we were....or about someone puckerin someone somethin'. I always hear don't let em gin you're a Romnichel. And I heard "dotty" not sure how to spell... heard it so many times. Think it means something like Lordy....haha. Even though my family settled down in VA 42 years ago....it hasn't been forgotten. And oh the stories...I'm now sharing this with my son. He's the one who found this stuff on the web. Anyone want to share info...email me. I've heard the name Stanley....can't tell u much about them. My family traveled in Tennesse and Southern Virginia. Family names were Small and we're somehow related to Williams family. My family does asphalt paving. Gorgers around here can't figure out why all the paving companies are owned by Smalls. There were lots of Eddies, Benny's, Georges, Helens, Hazels, Lizzies, Fabies, Dicks, etc. in the family.

Gypsy /Black Dutch

Patricia — 17 Nov 2000 11:31:50 GMT

I am looking for info on Rufo Burr Nobles.He was my husbands grand father.I was told by my mother in law that she was part Black Dutch.

Black Dutch

triciacarol1 — 14 Mar 2002 6:07:34 GMT

My grandfather was a Dilbeck; he was a direct
descendant of Isack Dilbeck who came to America
in 1683 with his wife, Mariette Bloemers who
was always said in our family to have been
"Black Dutch"/Gypsy. I would love to know
more about this!

romany gypeys

mummyatherbest — 10 Jun 2008 1:31:20 GMT

my great great grandmother was born in nottinghamshire in 1860 and her name was mary ann hawker i can not find any info on her before 1901. 1901 in this year she was married to wiliam holland has any one any info on her family. please email me on keith@keithball.orangehome.co.uk
thank you

romany gypsy

mummyatherbest — 10 Jun 2008 1:41:50 GMT

my great great grandmother was born in nottinghamshire in 1860 her name was mary ann hawker i can not find any info on her before 1901. in 1901 she was married to william holland. some of my family say she was married a few times before she married william holland but cant be sure.with william holland she had four children fank, alf, william and mary. if any one knows any info on this lady please email me on keith@keithball.orangehome.co.uk
thank you

Hagley associates

DrMandyandMrRoger — 26 Apr 2008 2:56:21 GMT

We know and are proud of our verbal history as Rom.However we have no written details. We have suffered prejudice from hose who think our claim is some kind of joke. It isn't and to get them to back off has anyone any info on our Family. My dad was known as Stan Hagley born 1933, and his dad also. His mother was Violet Smith of the East Ham Smiths Jack and Emily. He had brothers known as Edward Law, amd sisters Rose Hagley, Emily and Lilian Doyle. We are also related to the late Tom Lee of the Romany Guild and The Canning Town Lee's. My grandma was Maud Storey from Irish Travellers who married Tom Barber and settled in East Anglian fenland. We are also related to the irish Pearsons and my daughter is Holly Pearson. I am married to Roger Allison, we are HagleyAllison's and are related via Queenie and Peg Leg Joe Watson of the fen.
Thank you and Take Care
The Family Pray all bad things step aside and the world is full of equally resourced, peaceful co existence for the good majority
The HagleyAllison and Pearson Family nad
Intellectual Romany celt Druidic Peace Shaman Tribe

Gypsy Ancestry Message Board Update

Matt T. Salo — 27 Mar 2001 7:45:39 GMT

I have a large collection of Gypsy and Traveler genealogies painstakingly gathered over 35 years which I am willing to make available, at no charge, to direct descendants of the people in those records for reconstructing their family histories. My data cover all North American Gypsy and Traveler groups (Rom, Ludar, Romnichel, Hungarian/Slovak, Chikener Gypsies and English, Irish and Scottish Travelers). Please address your inquiries to Matt.T.Salo@census.gov for a confidential response or to the Board in general, if you want a broader audience for your questions. This Board is intended for people who are seriously interested in their family histories and who know they have Gypsy or Traveler ancestry. Inquiries about speculative or possible Gypsy or Traveler ancestry that are not researchable are discouraged.

Matt T. Salo

American Romani census records link

LOCKEroots — 4 Feb 2008 7:31:07 GMT

I have put up a web page with a list of known Romani in America in the census records.

This is a work in progress, and will be updated as more records are transcribed.

http://lockeroots.home.comcast.net/~lockeroots/GypsyCensusRe...

POSSIBLE GYPSY ANCESTORS (ENGLAND) - WHERE DO I START?!!

FifiRobinson — 30 Nov 2006 11:46:47 GMT

I have been told that my Great Grandfather was a Romany Gypsy. His name was Thomas Lycett (born 1868). Family firstnames included Carmi, Cormi and Seppy. Last names include Lycett, Adams, Jewell and Parkes. Occupations include ironman worker, scrap dealer and "shingler"?! The family were in the West Midlands and Staffordshire area notably West Bromwich and Walsall.

I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING MY FAMILY TREE FOR A LONG TIME BUT HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO GO ABOUT PROVING MY ROMANI GYPSY CONNECTION.

ANY HELP OR ADVICE WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.

William Lane

lindahayes172 — 14 Jan 2008 1:13:44 GMT

I am looking for William Lane born abt 1811 in Wiltshire. He was a Tinman Hawker and in the 1861 census was in Palmers Field in Wandsworth married to Rebecca. I cannot find him in the 1841 or 1851 census. If anyone could help me I would be very grateful or if you are related even better

Thanks

Linda

More Romani in Illinois

LOCKEroots — 13 Jan 2008 3:38:41 GMT

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 888
Page 274a
Sheet 24a
Line 9
John Brant, age 49, b. 1851 in Kentucky, Parents b. Kentucky
Wife: Thresa Brant, age 26, b. May 1874 in New Jersey, Parents b. New Jersey, she is a Fortune Teller
they have been married 8 years, 4 children born, 4 living
Son: Oliver Brant, age 6, b. September 1893 in Chicago Illinois
Son: Elmer Brant, age 6, b. April 1894 in Chicago Illinois
Daughter: Phoebe Brant, age 3, b. May 1877 in Chicago Illinois
Daughter: Laura Brant, age 11 months, b. June 1899 in Chicago Illinois

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 888
Page 274a
Sheet 24a
Line 15
Fortune Teller
David Boswell, age 33, b. May 1867 in England, Parents b. England, he immigrated to the US in 1888
Wife: Tiny Boswell, age 31, b. June 1868 in England, Parents b. England, she is a Fortune Teller, she immigrated to the US in 1888
they have been married 14 years, 7 children born, 7 living
Daughter: Selina Boswell, age 17, b. May 1883 in England, she immigrated to the US in 1888
Daughter: Sophia Boswell, age 13, b. March 1887 in England, she immigrated to the US in 1888
Daughter: Sallie Boswell, age 12, b. May 1888 in New York
Son: Tom Boswell, age 10, b. May 1890 in Ohio
Son: Messhie Boswell, age 7, b. June 1892 in Indiana
Son: Sampson Boswell, age 4, b. September 1895 in Illinois
Son: Sethia Boswell, age 1, b. September 1898 in Illinois

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 888
Page 274a
Sheet 24a
Line 24
Horse Trader
Nathan Seed, age 24, b. March 1866 in New Jersey, Parents b. London England, he is a widow
Daughter: Silverbad? Seed, age 13, b. March 1887 in Chicago Illinois, Parents b. New Jersey
Son: Wallace Seed, age 10, b. 1890 in Rochell Illinois
Daughter: Davis Seed, age 6, b. June 1893 in Chicago Illinois
Mother: Mary Seed, age 55, b. June 1844 in London England, Parents b. London England, she is a widow, she immigrated to the US in 1874
Boarder: Nathan Seed, age 53, b. July 1856 in London England, Parents b. London England, he immigrated to the US in 1874

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 888
Page 274a
Sheet 24a
Line 30
Fortune Teller
Edward Boswell, age 24, b. June 1875 in England, Parents b. England
Wife: Morshie?/ Mamie? Boswell, age 18, b. July 1871 in Illinois, Father b. England, Mother b. America
they have been married 3 years, 1 child born, 1 living
Son: Thomas Boswell, age 2, b. Arkansas
Boarder: Romagine Slover / Glover?, Male, age 17 b. Pennsylvania, Parents b. England, he is single, he is a Horse Trader

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 1081
Page 114a
Sheet 5a
Line 5
Horse Dealer
Eddie Evans, age 34, b. July 1865 in Illinois, Parents b. England
Wife: Mary Evans, age 34, b. March 1866 in England, Parents b. England, she immigrated to the US in 1873 at age 27
they have been married 10 years, 3 children born, 3 living
Son: Paul Evans, age 7, b. March 1893 in District of Columbia
Daughter: Gertrude Evans, age 4, b. March 1896 in Illinois
Son: Claude Evans, age 10 months, b. July 1899 in Illinois

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 1081
Page 114a
Sheet 5a
Line 10
Horse Dealer
Nixie Lovell, Male age 37, b. March 1863 in England, Parents b. England, he immigrated to the US in 1873 at age 27
Wife: Fiance Lovell, age 26, b. March 1874 in England, Parents b. England, she immigrated to the US in 1880 at age 20, she is a Palmist
they have been married 10 years, 3 children born, 3 living
Daughter: Henrietta Lovell, age 7, b. March 1893 in District of Columbia
Daughter: Naomi Lovell, age 4, b. June 1895 in Pennsylvania
Son: Nixie Lovell, age 6, b. February 1984 in Pennsylvania

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 1081
Page 114a
Sheet 5a
Line 17
Horse Dealer
Walter Millner, age 37, b. January 1863 in England, Father b. England, Mother b. District of Columbia, he immigrated to the US in 1863
Wife: Rhoda Millner, age 52, b. September 1847 in England, Father b. England, Mother b. Wales, she immigrated to the US in 1849, she is a Palmist
they have been married 16 years, 1 child born, 1 living
Son: Wardlow? B. Millner, age 27, b. May 1873 in Canada, Parents b. England, he is single, he is a Horse Dealer

1900 Cook County, Chicago, Illinois
ED 1105
Page 233a
Sheet 1a
Line 24
Horse Dealer
Charles Lovell, age 65, birth date unknown, b. England, Parents b. England, he immigrated to the US in 1875
Wife: Mary Lovell, age 64, b. June 1836? in England, Parents b. England, she immigrated to the US in 1875
they have been married 20 years, 14 children born, 10 living
Son: Leonard Lovell, age 27, b. March 1873 in England, he is single, he is a Horse Dealer, he immigrated to the US in 1875
Son: Thomas Lovell, age 19, b. April 1881 in Pennsylvania? Possibly North Carolina?
Son: Charlie Lovell, age 14, b. December 1885 in North Carolina
Son: William Lovell, age 6, b. January 1894 in Illinois
Daughter: Laura Lovell, age 21, b. May 1879 in District of Columbia, she is single
Daughter: Eliza Lovell, age 23, b. July 1876 in Georgia
Daughter: Rachel Lovell, age 11, b. March 1889 in District of Columbia
Daughter: Sarah, age 7, b. January 1893 in Indiana

David & Walter Boswell

LOCKEroots — 11 Jan 2008 7:46:52 GMT

I found a book online last night which mentioned Davey ( David ) Boswell.

The book is called
Gypsy Fires in America

It also mentioned Aunt Eppy Locke.

They had come from England to Canada and migrated to America in the 1890's. One reference in the book places them near Madison Wisconsin.

I found David Boswell in the US census records. Though I have yet to locate Eppy Locke.
The name Eppy isn't real common and I suspect she is Eppy Lovell who married a Locke.

1910 Menard County, Petersburg, Illiois census
ED 84
Page 236
Sheet 3a
Line 43
Occupation: Gypsy
David Boswell, age 42, b. England, Parents b. England
Wife: Tina Boswell, age 41, b. England, Parents b. England
they have been married 25 years, 11 children born, 8 living
they immigrated to the USA in 1889?
Son: Martin? Boswell, age 18, b. Illinois
Son: Samson Boswell, age 16, b. Indiana
Son: Sith? Boswell, age 9, b. Illinois
Son: Danny? Boswell, age 7, b. Illinois
Son: Otto Boswell, age 4, b. Illinois
Companion: Nepolion Cote? ( Cole?), age 19, b. Illinois, Father b. Canada,
Mother b. ?

1920 Will County, Joliet, Illinois census
ED 160
Page 144b
Sheet 16b
Line 83
Occupation: Fireman for Railroad
David Boswell, age 64, b. England, Parents b. England
Wife: Tina Boswell, age 55, b. England, Parents b. England
Son: John Dewey Boswell, age 19, b. Illinois
Son: Otto Boswell, age 15, b. Illinois
Grand Daughter: Blanche Seed, age 11, b. Illinois
Grand Daughter: Hazel Seed, age 6, b. Illinois

1920 Will County, Joliet, Illinois census
ED 160
Page 144b
Sheet 16b
Line 59
Handy man at Imp MFG Co.
Samson Boswell, age 24, b. Illinois, Parents b. England
Wife: Loretta Boswell, age 22, b. Illinois, Parents b. England
Daughter: Ceola? Boswell, age 1 b. Illinois

1920 Will County, Joliet, Illinois census
ED 160
Page 144b
Sheet 16b
Line62
Occupation: None
Walter Boswell, age 62, b. Canada, Parents b. England, he is married
Son: Merrick Boswell, age 27, b. Illinois, Parents b. England, he is single
Brother in Law: Luchyen? Lovell, age 50, b. England, Parents b. England, he is
single

1930 Will County, Joliet, Illinois
ED 11
Page 240a
Sheet 4a
Line 32
Peddler of Baskets
Teenie Boswell, age 64, b. England, Parents b. England, she is a widow
Son: Dewey Boswell, age 28, b. Illinois, he is married, he is a basket maker
Son: Meschie Boswell, age 34, b. Illinois, he is divorced, he is a junk dealer
Son: Otto Boswell, age 22, b. Illinois, he is married, he is a barber at a
barber shop
Daughter in Law: Frances Boswell, age 25, b. Illinois, Parents b. Illinois
Grand Daughter: Hazel Boswell, age 4, b. Illinois
Grand Daughter: Edna Boswell, age 5, b. Illinois
Daughter in Law: Opal Boswell, age 27, b. Illinois, Parents b. Illinois
Grand Daughter: Juanita Boswell, age 2, b. Illinois

I have transcribed countless thousands of American Census records over the last decade, and this is the very first time I have seen the term Gypsy used in our census records.
Could be because I wasn't looking for the last descade too lol.

This clearly places the Boswell's, and at least 1 Lovell and 1 Locke here in America in the early 1900's.

I located one of the Boswell descendants in Joliet Illinois, I will be writing to him to see what he can tell me. :)

Hope this helps someone!

Donald Locke

rose lee

kellyward — 17 Jan 2002 4:40:29 GMT

my name is kelly ward and i am the grandaughter of alfred edward lambert his father was called charles lambert and his mothers name was ann lee before she married my great grandad they all travelled together with rose lee my grandad alfred told my mum that rose lee the tea reader was his auntie and that he was there when she died he also told us that his family settled in kent and that he was born in kent along with his brother bill when my great nan and grandad moved up to london they lost contact with anns family.we have moved back into kent know and would like to find out where my grandad was born and also find family all we know is they were all romany gypsies if anybody has any info please can you contact me kate1471uk@hotmail.com thankyou

Newent Locks

beckycross11 — 13 Nov 2007 8:11:38 GMT

Can anyone help regarding an Elizabeth Lock/ Ryles who was born in Oxenhall, Gloucestershire, about 1850. On her death certificate it seems her father was Luther Rhyles. I believe the Locks and Ryles were of the same family, but can't get any further.
I also have a Mary Ann Rile, whose father was a Buz Rile, who possibly could have married a Caroline Loveridge.
Lots of Romany names, but I can't find my Elizabeth or where she came from.

Romany in early Maryland?

LOCKEroots — 26 Nov 2007 9:58:10 GMT

My Richard Lock is first found in Calvert County Maryland around 1728, but may have been in Maryland as early as 1711.

In years past, I hadn't a clue about the Lock's being Romany, that I only learned of very recently.

While in Calvert County Maryland, Richard Lock is associated with several men whom I now know to also be of Romany surnames.

A John Smith is named on several of the same Maryland records with Richard Lock, Benjamin Dixon is also named on many of the same records and a William Perry.
Richard Lock's only surviving daughter Mary Lock married a Mr. Perry whom we presume to be William Perry.

All known Rom surnames. I believe I have discovered a much earlier migration of Romany to America then was previously known about. Though the early Rom's don't appear to have continued the Romany way of life in America.

Dixon men found in Calvert County Maryland in 1748.
Benjamin Dixon, Hugh Dixon, Garret ( Garrot? ) Dixon,
Ellis Dixon, Joshua Dixon.

Other surnames associated with Richard Lock, but are not known Romany surnames to me are;
Avis
Shirley
Rutherford
Currant
Day
McKenney ( or MacKenney )
Imbert
and others

I have posted all the known Richard Lock records from
Maryland and Virginia and can be viewed online at
http://lockeroots.home.comcast.net/~lockeroots/Richard.html

I would be very interested in seeing if the people Richard Lock was associated with, can be connected to known Romany familys.

Richard Lock and his only known surviving son Richard Lock Jr. didn't own any land in America that I can find.
They did lease land on a 10 year contract until their deaths in the 1770's.

So if you are missing some Romany in England 1700's, they very well might be found in Maryland and Virginia.

I was sent this record refernce also which clearly shows several Romany surnames all located on the same place.

Oaths of Fidelity 1778 Montgomery County Maryland
Surnames; Bosswell, Bailey, Campbell, Carter , Henry Lock and William Jewell

Bosswell ( Boswell ), Lock, Carter, are known
English Romany surnames. Not sure about Campbell & Jewell being Romany, but Bailey is a known Scotish / English Traveler family who may or may not be Rom.

So there seems to be some evidence that some Romany are in Maryland USA by the 1700's.

Donald Locke
http://lockeroots.home.comcast.net/~lockeroots/

HELP!!!! BANE NAME

Marilyn Myra Bredenkamp — 23 Jul 2000 10:59:20 GMT

i AM LOOKING FOR ANY INFORMATION RELATING TO GYPSY HERITAGE, NAME OF BANE FAMILY/SCOTLAND
REGARDS
MMB

Tinsmiths - tinkers - hawkers

Robertson001 — 22 Jan 2005 7:01:44 GMT

My ancestors are all from a traditional travelling background.

I have a mountain of information to share - as I keep "hitting" the wrong names on the Scottish GRO Site. If they are not directly connected to me - are they connected to you?

If interested, drop me a line, and we may be able to swap details.

Romnchel DNA project

LOCKEroots — 2 Nov 2007 10:55:45 GMT

I have just posted the link on another forum for the
Romnchel DNA project.
http://boards.rootsweb.com/topics.dnaresearch.projectannounc...

Lock

LOCKEroots — 30 Oct 2007 12:53:27 GMT

Looking for Lock(e) cousins.

I am a descendant of Richard Lock b. about 1675.
He is first found in Calvert County Maryland USA around 1728 with wife Mary and 2 children Richard Lock Jr. and daughter Mary Lock Perry, we think she married William Perry.

Richard Lock had a close association to John Smith and Benjamin Dixon and a Luke Smith also of Calvert County Maryland.

Richard Lock's descendants are a 65/67 DNA match to
Henry Lock of South Cerney, Gloucestershire England 1750's.
1 of Henry Lock's descendants has DNA tested and is a match to me. This is Henry Lock father of Matthew Lock husband of Memberance Boswell.

The Lock(e) family is in a rare DNA group called
Y chromosome Haplo Group H. It is rare regardless the surname. Now knowing Henry Lock's descendants has close ties to the Smith and Perry family's also, makes me believe the Lock's, Smith's and Perry's and possibly others, may have been deported out of England to America, mainly to Maryland early 1700's.

There are in all 7 USA family's in this rare DNA group,
Haplo Group H, and of course Henry Lock's lineage.
The surnames are; Lock(e), Hite, Bailey, Carter, Campbell,
Jewell, Ruffin.

Amazingly, 6 of the 7 USA family's all trace back to early
Maryland and Virginia USA 1700's - 1800's.
I do not know if the surnames; Hite, Bailey, Carter, Campbell, Jewell, Ruffin are known Romany surnames or
English and Scotish Travelers, but the 7 family's clearly share very simular DNA's to one another and they share a geographical area in common.

I was sent a reference to a record that is a very interesting record.

Oaths of Fidelity 1778 Montgomery County Maryland USA
Surnames; Bosswell, Bailey, Campbell, Carter , Henry Lock and William Jewell

The surnames in this record, Lock & Bosswell are known Romany surnames, and the others are the same surnames found in this rare DNA group, Haplo Group H.

There is a patern emerging here that needs closer attention to.
While I can't prove it yet, I highly suspect some of the history that was recorded about the Romany people being deported out of England to America in the 1600's and 1700's
seems to fit in with what I am finding in the Maryland records and through DNA testing.

Does anyone have known Romany or Traveler ties to any
Carter, Hite, Campbell, Jewell, Bailey, Ruffin in England / UK?

DNA testing on us Lock(e) men clearly links Henry Lock to Richard Lock, though we don't have a paper trail to link our 2 branches together yet.

Donald Locke

Rodney and Sheena Lovell

alanworkman1952 — 17 Oct 2007 12:37:11 GMT

Trying to find this couple. They were married in1984 and have 2 girls Jayde and Emelye.

I would like to contact them.

the gypsy curse

Bill Pfitzer — 10 Jan 2003 4:41:01 GMT

I need to know how to find out more about the gypsies. There is an old legend about a terrible curse,put on our family many generations ago, because a gypsy married a white person, which her parents did not approve of. I need to find out all I can about the gypsies,so I can trace the legends back farther. Please,leave a message on the board,& you can also email me. Thanks again.

Reaves, Shepard, Osteen, Childs

rdegnen — 25 Aug 2007 6:27:34 GMT

Looking for researchers of the aforementioned surnames who may have had Roma/Gypsie ancestors in the Colonial era Carolina's.

Roma/Jewish/ from Hungary to the U.S.

finncottom — 15 Dec 2006 9:46:27 GMT

Hello all,

I am currently researching the part of my family from Hungary. My family left Hungary in the 1900's and has denied having Roma roots for a long time, despite the facts. I recently learned about Queen Maria of Hungary starting forced assimilation of Roma in the 1800's- she took Roma children away from their families and made them "normal" by sending them to boarding school. I'm wondering if anyone knows more about this and how it affected the Roma community because I also know that there are cultural boundaries about contact with non-Roma people and so I'm wondering if people were assimilated and then not able to return to their communities. So if you know information or resources about this please let me know- I would really appreciate it.
There is also maybe Jewish ancestry, my great grandmother said there was, but there was also secrecy and denial about that. So if other people know of the history of Jews in Hungary, or resources regarding that history please let me know. A friend of mine said that the only other family she heard of having a similar story of denial/conversion was also from Hungary- any info would be helpful.
Also if other people have had the experience of their Roma/Jewish history being denied/hidden I am interested in connecting about our stories.
I'm also wondering if people know these names of my family and recognize them as Roma/Hungarian/Jewish

kövi, losla (also spelled laszlo? I think by mistake), nagy, kiss, jera or jere- (not sure of the spelling), Balint.

thank you so much for whatever help you can offer...

Finn

NAME CHANGED TO BAKER - SC/NC

aakha — 4 Jun 2005 5:27:21 GMT

MY ROM ANCESTORS CHANGED THEIR NAME, AFTER COMING TO AMERICA, FROM A NOW-UNKNOWN SURNAME TO "BAKER." THEY SETTLED IN PRE-1850 SC. FAMILY LEGEND & ARTIFACTS INDICATE THAT THEY CAME FROM THE SYRIAN PART OF THE OTTOMAN EMPIRE. THIS PROBABLY PRECEDED THE TIME THAT NAME CHANGES WERE RECORDED WITH THE COURTS. THERE ARE QUESTIONS OF CHEROKEE OR CHOCTAW HERITAGE ALSO. MY BRANCH OF THIS FAMILY - DESCENDANTS OF ROBERT & MARY BAKER - MIGRATED TO NC IN THE LATE 19th CENTURY, WITH SEVERAL RELATED BAKER FAMILIES LIVING IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY, CHARLOTTE NC IN 1920's-1940's. I AM GATHERING EARLY 20th CENTURY FAMILY RECORDS, BUT STRUGGLING TO GO BACK FURTHER. MY GR-GRANDMOTHER, DELIA ANNA BAKER (b1868SC-d1925NC), d/o ROBT & MARY BAKER, MARRIED WM"WILEY" B STEWART. ROBT&MARY BAKER'S OTHER CHILDREN INCLUDED HORACE, JAMES, LULA, ELLEN. DOES ANYONE KNOW OF THIS BAKER FAMILY?OR THEIR ORIGINAL SURNAME? ANNIE(BAKER)&WILEY STEWART'S CHILDREN INCLUDE: MARY A., LUCY, ROBEY, MAMIE, CHARLES, CLYDE, FLORENCE, ROBT "JACK" STEWART. DOES ANYONE KNOW OF THIS STEWART FAMILY? I WOULD LOVE TO SWAP FAMILY HISTORY AND GENEALOGY NOTES.

BUCKLEY, LOVERIDGE,SMITH

Donna Ramsden — 7 Dec 2002 10:52:18 GMT

I am looking for information on my Great Grandfather Ricky John BUCKLEY. He was married to Jasmin LOVERIDGE,(Minty), and they had 22 children together,(including my grandfather). I know that he was born in Kent, and is buried in Essex. I belive that his Great Aunt was Jasmin BUCKLEY, who married Woodlock SMITH but I have no evidence to back this up. Can anyone help

Looking for Smith/Lane/Gardner/Warne

lindahayes172 — 12 Jul 2007 1:57:13 GMT

I am looking for any descendants of travellers with the names Smith/Lane/Gardner/Warne that were travellers around the Surrey and Kent areas.

My great great grandfather Josiah Smith 1833 born in Shooters Hill Kent married Alice Lane 1836 in Malling in Kent

Alice Lane's parents were William Lane 1811 and Rebecca 1816.

My great grandfather Josiah Smith 1862 married Lemantamia Gardner 1865. Lemantamia's parents were John Gardner 1815 and Mary Ann Warne 1827. Mary Ann's father was Samuel Warne

They all ended up in the Mitcham Surrey area.

Please let me know if you have these names in your tree

Linda

romany gypsy descent in Wales

gillianlovell_1 — 31 Aug 2006 12:24:39 GMT

Anyone with Welsh Romany roots? Names you will recognise are Lovell, Boswell,and Scamp. I am interested in Dora (Dearus) Boswell born in Rhyl abt. 1887 and her ancestors. I know her mother was Sarah,born in Chirk abt. 1861. Also, Durant Lovell, born abt. 1800. Thanks.

Surname Kristic or Krstic or Kristich from Croatia, Poland, former Yugoslavia & Romania

aztlan55 — 17 Sep 2003 11:00:18 GMT

Just found out about this board today and I am very excited. Thank you Dolores Littel. :o)

I'm looking for other Roma with the surname Krstic (accent on the c), Kristic (accent mark on the c) or Kristich from anywhere in Eastern Europe, especially Croatia, Poland, former Yugoslavia, and Romania. The name was spelled many different ways - even men who were brothers in my family ended up with different spellings of the name.

If you are in the United States and had an ancestor who arrived in the US between 1910 and 1940, I would be especially excited to speak with you as we may be closely related.

SC GRAVEMARKER WITH GYPSY SYMBOL

aakha — 4 Jun 2005 4:28:47 GMT

IS THE GYPSY WAGON WHEEL SYMBOL USED BY BOTH ROM GYPSIES AND BRITISH TRAVELERS? THE MARBLE HEADSTONE OF MY GR-GR-GRANDMOTHER IS CARVED WITH THE GYPSY WAGON WHEEL SYMBOL BELOW HER NAME. SALLIE AND ALEX EVANS ARE BURIED AT CHARLESBORO BAPTIST CHURCH IN LANCASTER COUNTY, FLAT CREEK, SC SHE WAS SALLIE EVANS (20 AUG 1843 - 30 DEC 1929), WIFE OF ALEXANDER EVANS, CIVIL WAR VETERAN. DOES ANYONE KNOW THE ANCESTRY OF THIS FAMILY? I DO NOT KNOW WHO SALLIE'S PARENTS WERE.

gypsy good luck charm

maisiebeck — 13 Jan 2007 7:37:47 GMT

Hi,

Can any help me please?
I am searching for a picture of a Pentagon, that has figures (charactors) within each of its inner and outer triangles. Apparantly this is a good luck charm, it was noticed in a book over 14 years ago, wanted to photocopy it but the owner of the book wanted it back, so unfortunatley didn't get time, been looking for a picture ever since and drew a blank, if anyone knows where such a picture can be obtained i'd be truely grateful. A friend of mine wants it as a tattoo and it would be a nice supprise for me to locate it for them..........
Thank you for reading this post, and to those who respond.
Patiently waiting
maisie

gypsies in england

damamis — 8 Aug 2003 7:03:34 GMT

Sue, I am Wharton, Palmer, Smith with boswell in laws. Please contact me directly by email.

Memories of a Gypsy, by Victor Vishnevsky

sgsalo1 — 30 Dec 2006 7:39:19 GMT

Born in Shanghai in 1931, Victor Vishnevsky is a Russian Lovara Rom by culture, an Iranian by citizenship, and a resident of Brazil. In Memories of a Gypsy he takes us from his childhood in Shanghai, through his family’s flight from China in 1949, through Burma, India, and Iran, and on to his emigration to Brazil and later world travels. Along the way he presents his views on his and other Gypsy cultures, and offers his opinions on history and world affairs. Addressed directly to the reader, Vishnevsky’s account is like a letter written to a friend.

For more information, see
http://mysite.verizon.net/resrrcxl/id1.html

Willett Taylor Smith

ju1ie_t — 31 Aug 2005 9:30:18 GMT

Can anyone give me information on my ancestors? My Grandfather was Ben Taylor who married Annie Willett who was the daughter or grand daughter of Queeny Smith who settled on Canvey Island in Essex UK

family name

mel isaac — 22 Sep 2006 2:12:31 GMT

hi trying to discover my roots, born south wales, but great granddad came from somerset wit name isaac been told it gypsy name, may explain me living on the road for last 15 year and wanting ahorses

Travelling through - the Romanies of south-east England

Jill Hyams — 13 Sep 2006 7:28:32 GMT

A talk by Janet Keet-Black
from the Romany and Traveller Family History Society

Thursday 21 September 2006 at 7.30pm

Held at Surrey History Centre
130 Goldsworth Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 6ND, UK

Tickets £2.50

To book, telephone 01483 518737 or go to the events web site at http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/sccwebsite/sccwspages.nsf/LookupW...

Williams - Gypsies

RNichols9635 — 11 Mar 2004 9:44:40 GMT

Searching for Romany ancestors who were known for generations to roam the english countryside. William Williams, and his father before him, were proclaimed leaders of groups transversing England at an earlier time.
Any one who can help me with this?

Regards,
Ruthie

Great Grandmother

Skye — 12 Aug 2006 5:06:09 GMT

Hello, I am reseraching my great grandmother Ida Habel, she was born in Stembek, Germany on July 17, 1912. She immigrated to Canada in 1939, with my great Grandfather Herman Dostal. She was fleeing the nazis..anyone with any information please contact me!!!

Sophia BOSWELL bn 1788 Canterbury, Kent, ENG (Parents: Abraham/Sarah)

Not Related — 11 Jun 2006 4:55:56 GMT

The following baptism entry was found in the Bishop's Transcripts (BTs) of the parish of Saint Peter in Canterbury, Kent, England. It was the only occurence of the BOSWELL name found in these records between 1755 and 1790.

I have no further info or any family connection to these individuals or to any other BOSWELL anywhere. I am merely posting the info in case it is of interest to other researchers.

In the entry below, I have inserted two additional words, indicated in brackets, for greater clarity. These two words were not in the original entry.

1788 Oct 5 Baptism of "Sophia BOSWELL, daughter of Abraham BOSWELL and Sarah His Wife Travelling Gipseys Born in a Barn in North Lane (in) the Parish of Westgate (with) out."

Comment: Westgate Without was part of the Canterbury parish of Holy Cross Westgate which was outside of the City gates.

The nav Cannes

Shahnee Cannes — 4 May 2006 12:17:58 GMT

Hello and sarshin?
I'm am searching for the family Cannes preferably within the UK - dey are travelling Rom who work with gry mainly in the north of the uk.
I have had some success but require more help is required.
There is another Romany site www.journeyfolki.co.uk which has helped considerably but i really could do with more infor.
The name Nazir Cannes and Babentta Cannes are of greatest importance - if any one can help i would be most greatful.
Kushti bok!

vital records

dechdi1 — 27 Apr 2006 9:42:45 GMT

How does someone go about getting a birth certificate if you are a gypsy ?

Victoria Cooper Williams

Ruth — 16 Apr 2006 10:07:53 GMT

Prince Thomas Williams

Ruth — 16 Apr 2006 10:05:56 GMT

WILLIAMS & WELLS marriage

@@PENNEWSLET@aol.com — 19 Jun 2003 1:32:27 GMT

Searching for a WILLIAMS - WELLS marriage connection in East Hartford or Hartford, Connecticut, in the 1870s or 1880s.
Thomas Williams, known far and wide as King of the Gypsies, first came to New Haven, and later settled in East Hartford. He was one of the best known horse dealers in the state, and died there in 1895.
The daughter of Thomas married a WELLS. Would like to make a connection with WELLS descendants.

Kiefer or Minnick Surname

Kiefer — 22 Feb 2006 7:45:19 GMT

Am of Romany ancestry and want to know if any other Romany people have the same surname o

surname Rasor

YvonRas — 18 Feb 2006 1:24:01 GMT

Hello there,

Can anyone tell me if they know whether the surname Rasor was ever taken by gypsy/Romani families? I am trying to reseach my father's ancestry and I have heard it stated that Rasor is a Romani surname. Any truth to this? Anywhere I can go for help?

Thank you in advance

Yvonne Rasor

Zacharius FINNEY

patmelia76 — 16 Feb 2006 9:54:56 GMT

Im looking for decendents of Zacharius Finney born 1908. He married Mary Price in 1933 and had children Maureen, Zacharius, Silverthorn/Sylvia, George and Carole.
I need to find out more about him and his father Zacharius whom I believe died after being trampled by a horse. I may have a family connection.

LOCK FAMILY

Wiczy — 14 Feb 2006 12:43:57 GMT

Seeking info on the Lock Family, particularly Selina bn: c1868 in Cheshire, gives her fathers name as Vernon. No other details I'm afraid....... hope someone may be able to help.

Thanks, Chris.

Brewer family

Girley BrewerLobaugh — 5 Dec 2005 12:05:13 GMT

I am still looking for possible family members of the Brewer and Young families. My father, Louis Brewer Jr was born 01/22/34. His parents were Mary Marie Bryer and Louis Brewer.

Boswell

Rose — 3 Jun 2005 8:51:01 GMT

Hello to all,my grandmother was Elizabeth Mary Boswell,born 1880.
Her father was Nathaniel.
Gran married outside the clan so we never knew her family at all.
I would like to find out where she was born anyone any ideas where to start ?
many thanks

kingsley england..nana M.Whitley or Price married name Balmer

pam rutter — 27 May 2002 7:06:17 GMT

My nana lived in Kingsley near Delamere forest, her maiden name was price or Whitley every year a gypsy caravan would stop and stay on her (rented)farm, she was a clairvoyant and never left the house in over 30 years.I am going to scan her photo and put it in, she has doe eyes and very slim.
Someone must know some info. i am desperate to find out my genealogy which my family has kept hidden until now, ashamed of being gypo, i am far from ashamed i live in NZ and i cant get to county records.
Please reply. Pam Rutter. x x x

Tracy

Jolie — 20 Nov 2005 8:17:57 GMT

I don't recall anyone mentioning being from NC. My mother grew up in Peoria Illinois and moved to Danville, Illinois. All I know is that my grandfather lived much of his life in Peoria and Danville. He married Blanche McGlassen. I believe their family came from either Illinois or Indiana. I think I may have had a ex sister in law contact your family group in Wyoming, Illinois at one time but I have not been in contact with her for reasons stated...(ex sister in law).

Romnichel: BROADWAY, Smith, Williams, Lovell

mbroad30581 — 11 Aug 2002 11:09:13 GMT

These are they families I'm primarily interested in. They were from England and Wales and came to America from 1860-?
They traveled and settled mainly in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky and Indiana with some in Alabama, Tennesse and Maryland. Many of them were in the horse trade with some traveling the fair circuit as fortune tellers, etc. They married into each others families as well as: Riley, Stanley, Cooper, Bryer, Wells, Buckland, Locke, Baldwin and Burton. My genealogy website is: www.uftree.com/UFT/WebPages/SusanBroadway/Broadgen/
It hasn't been updated in about 2 years because the software company dropped the program but the vast majority of my family line is there. I'd love to hear from anyone interested in these families. To anyone who has tried to contact me at my old email address, try again. I'm locked into MSN for 2 more years! :]

Relatives

jousher18 — 31 Oct 2005 2:42:15 GMT

I am trying to locate any information regarding my grandfather's people. I know that they were Romany. My Grandfather was Thomas Williams - he married Ellen Outram in 1914 at Woolwich. Thomas' father was Samual Williams - his occupation is given as tinsmith - I have been given two names for my great grandmother - Britania or Sarah - I have no idea which or if any are correct. I know that my grandfather was born in Kent -Sittingbourne I believe - but he has no birth certificate. I know that he had a brother Nate or Nathaniel/Nathan. He had a couple of sisters I am not sure about their names - Bertha, Amelia and Prudence. I know that my grandfather's generation were the first to settle - I also know that both he and one of his brothers spent some time at her majesty's pleasure. Any help would be much appreciated.

oaks

warren — 30 Sep 2005 3:07:07 GMT

there are about 20 familys of oaks and arnett romnichels in or around peru indiana there all black toppers

Last name

Daniel — 18 Sep 2005 12:43:39 GMT

My great-grandmother came from a village called Romany in Poland. Could this have any Romany connection.Her surname was Roman.

the origins of my last name are confusing...

Shana — 2 Sep 2005 10:16:01 GMT

hello there,
just found this site...and my last name is quite puzzling...its
STAFIEJ
my father's dad died when he was three...so we dont know
much about his side...though he was from belarus my dad
doesnt know much more...my grandfather was dark...and
i was wondering if the last name had any gypsy ties?
hope someone has some answers
thanks a bunch :)

canal people

traceyupland — 25 May 2005 10:32:55 GMT

Quite a few of my family worked and may of lived on the barges in and around the staffordshire area, my family names are, Smith, Johnson and Cotton. Does anybody have any information on the canals,or boat people in the early to late 1800's?

Jan Marcinkiewicz who was a Gypsy King

Ziggymax — 10 Jul 2006 4:38:46 GMT

Hello,
I am looking for the families Jan Marcinkiewicz who was the king of the Gypsy that was listed in the book Burying Me Standing by Isabel Fonseca. He maybe related to me..

I am from a line of Stanley Marcinkiewicz and Rose Glowinski who came child who came to the United States in 1880's Jan (John) Marcinkiewicz who married a Mariana Surma.

Could this line be gypsy?

Can anyone share about this King of the Gypsies?

Romnichels ,Smith ,Nuckles

Cheryl Westmoreland — 31 May 2005 3:30:12 GMT

Iam trying to find out info on my grandfather Kage Smith his brother Riley Smith their father Dave Smith from around Arkansas Illinois missouri

Gypsy surnames in Poland

Nicole Paluszek — 6 May 2005 3:55:47 GMT

Does anyone know of any links of the surnames PALUSZEK ("little finger")and KONEFAL ("farrier, horse doctor") to Gypsies in Poland?

Prudence Smith & Amos Gibb

AnnRoots50 — 23 Mar 2005 5:26:12 GMT

I am looking for any info on a Prudence Smith born Kingston on Thames and Amos Gibb born Lindfield or Lingfield and family. They are in Rusper in 1861 and in Dorking area in 1871. Prudence goes on to marry a George Alderton.
In 1861 Prudence and Amos have a daughter Rhoda Smith.
Thank you

Whitney - Wright Romany link

kakanui — 11 May 2006 1:47:21 GMT

Family hearsay says the family of William Henry Wright of Kensington London (1890s) were descendants of a Romany family named Whitney. Are there any Whitney descendants out there?
regards
Nadia Wright

Louisa Mays Sharp and Franklin/Frank Sharp

holdenh10 — 24 Nov 2003 4:45:33 GMT

Looking for information on Franklin Sharp b. abt 1856 in NC. Married Louisa Mays abt 1874 also from NC. Louisa Mays was the daughter of Emeline Taylor and James Mays/Mayes. Frankin and Louisa had a son, William John Sharp abt 1875 in Columbus Ohio. A daughter Bessie abt 1879 also in Columbus and a daughter Laura born about 1881 in Ohio, place unknown. Franklins date of death is unknown to me. Louisa remarried Joseph Lee about 1884. I do not know if Franklin was deceased or if he and Louisa were divorced when she married Joseph. Franklin and Louisa were my GG Grandparents, William Sharp was my G Grandfather and the father of Huey P. Sharp my Grandfather and father to my mother Lillian Sharp. Louisa and Franklin were Travelers and lived the Gypsy Lifestyle. They traveled by Gypsy Wagon back and forth between OH to LA, TX, and FL. Franklin was a horse trader and they made and sold willow furniture. I am trying to find out Franklin Sharps place of birth in NC and his parents names. I would also like to know his place of death and burial and any other information about him and Louisa.

Young/Brewer

praizewarrior — 27 Nov 2005 1:39:20 GMT

I am looking for the families of Louis Brewer from Houston Texas and Bessie Young Daniels from Oklahoma and Texarkana. Please e-mail me if you have info about any of these families.

Romanian Gypsy

national4n6champ — 31 Mar 2002 1:22:40 GMT

I was told as a "joke" on many occasions when I was growing up that our family were Romanian Gypsies who migrated to the United States in the 1920's.

Come to find out, as I have done some research this seems to have been the truth. My great-grandparents wanted their children and grandchildren to be "Americans" and not be discriminated against, so they hid their "gypsy" heritage when they immigrated. I seem to be of half-gypsy blood, as the first generation to marry outside of culture was my father's.

Is there any way I can research this information? Names, etc. were somewhat changed by the staff at Ellis Island.

Family names I know of are Micklea (my maiden name, though I doubt that is the correct spelling), Barbulescu (changed to Barbu on immigration) and Sacula.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Priscilla Lee

julzmm — 7 Jul 2002 9:11:55 GMT

Hi anybody

i am looking for some information about a PRiscilla LEE. She died between 1930 and 1950 and was buried in Hartlepool, Durham aged over 100 and was of Romany origin. She was my 3rd great grandmother.

According to my grandma she had a rather elaborate funeral with the funeral cortege led by 4 black horses. Priscilla was married twice to a Muchan and a Thompson.

Does anybody have any information about her or could tell me about how I could get some more information.

Thank you

Julia Mudd

Margaret Denham Bomar - KY, IN, MO, IA, NE, CO

Echo9232 — 28 Nov 2004 1:43:23 GMT

Seeking info on Margaret Denham / Denim / Dunum born 1830 - 1837 in Kentucky or Indiana.

She was a gypsy and could "blow fire" and heal people.

I don't know if Denham was her maiden name or the name of a first husband. She had a daughter Caroline and possible a daughter Leonina before 1857.

In 1857, she married Robert W. Bomar in Missouri. They had several children. She died in 1922 in Denver, Colorado and was buried in the Bomar Cemetery, Sheridan County, Nebraska.

She lived in Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Colorado.

I don't know anything about her family of origin except that they came from Czechoslavakia.

Any help appreciated.

Light and Williams, NC and AL, with Roma heritage?

Courtney E. Shinaberry — 10 May 2003 8:11:15 GMT

Looking for any info on Wharton, Boswell, Cooper, Smith, etc.

dolores28 — 29 Jun 2001 9:55:20 GMT

Anyone can help or have family connected to all or any of these names: Wharton, Smith, Palmer, Woodruff, Boswell, Cooper, Lovel? I am researching for my close friends the Whartons who are Romani from CA. Most of the relations above are found in Sacramento, Nevada, LA, Oregon, etc.
If you would like to share info or have suggestions email me.
antolin1@earthlink.net

Kipila, Kepela

Judy Mitrolka — 8 Sep 2004 3:33:31 GMT

Family memory says that my grandmother, Mary Kipila, was a "gypsy" from Budapest. She married my grandfather, George Mitrolka, and came to the US (Holyoke, MA) in 1908. Her death documents show her place of birth as Hungary, Romania, or Russia. Are there any Kipila's out
there? Also, does anyone know a way to access the genealogy information on the Romani people which was supposedly compiled by Ritter on gypsies in that area in the early 1900's?

Ruth Nichols Lambert

RNichols9635 — 19 Oct 2004 8:57:36 GMT

Seeking descendants of the WELLS family of gypsies, who were the son and daughters of Robert Wells and Amelia Cooper Wells. They were known to have had a son Richard, who married into the WILLIAMS family of gypsies. This same couple also had sons named William, Leonard and Henry Wells. Also looking for news clippings regarding this WELLS family.

Thanks,
Ruth

London Times 14 Aug. 1832, Charles Lee, Gypsy King

RNichols9635 — 16 Oct 2004 11:21:33 GMT

Located in the London Times - 14 Aug. 1832. Obituary for Charles Lee.

County of Buckingham - Death of King of the Gypsies, in a tent on our race ground on Wednesday of last week, Charles Lee, King of The Gypsies. The age of this monarch of the murky tribe was not correctly known. They called him 74, but it is conjuncture that he is much older than that. He has left about 50 children and grandchildren behind him. He was interred at St. Ann's Churchyard yesterday afternoon, followed by 10 of his relatives, the rest of his family being absent at the different fairs, races, etc. In the presence of at least 1800 spectators, who had from curiosity been attracted to the churchyard to witness the funeral of so exhalated a character.

Hungarian Gypsies

Deborah Wutsch Chamberlain — 20 Jan 2001 12:14:38 GMT

My grandfather used to refer to our relatives from the "old country" as Hungarian Gypsies.
Does anyone have any information on the lifestyles of these people?

Could I have gypsy blood?????

blaporte1 — 26 Jan 2005 5:25:37 GMT

I know nothing about my father's side of the family,other than they come from Roumania,and arrived as immigrants in New York. The few living relatives that I have will tell me nothing about my father or his family. The last name is Spiegler,which could have been changed. At a young age I developed interests in tarot cards,palm reading and so forth. I've been criticized as no one on my mother's side ever introduced me to anything. My family looks upon me as strange,as I am nothing like them. People have always called me a Gypsie -because of the things I do. Animals and horses have been a big part of my life,and I have a care free lifestyle. I'm trying to find my roots,and would be proud to have Gypsie heritage.

Perth Scotland

melonad — 16 Sep 2004 4:54:19 GMT

I'm looking for a Gypsy link from Scotland with the name of 'Young'. My great grandmother, Christina Young, was of Gypsy descent and she married a Thomas Niven of Perth.

Scottish gypsy

melonad — 8 Sep 2004 6:37:09 GMT

Hi,
My great grandmother was gypsy and she married the son of a scottish land-owner from Perth. His name was Thomas Niven, my great grandmother's first name was Christina with her maiden name "unknown".
Christina's family was fine with the fact that she was in love and they had spoken of marriage. Thomas's family was not. So they left their country and family and came to Canada.
I'm looking for anyone who might recognize these names or the story itself.
Much Thanks!

Sarah Orchard and Alfred Penfold Wedding 1906

Heather — 21 Aug 2004 8:48:12 GMT

The Musuem of Country Life at Exmouth had a photo of the gypsy wedding betwen Sarah Orchard and Alfred Penfold. It was held at Holsworthy Church, Devon on the day of St Peters Fair 1 July 1906.

Does anyone have Edward Orchard in their tree, his second marrige was to Florence Whitcombe in 1913, Florence was known as Sissy, Edward had a daughter Violet from his first marriage.

Romani ancestors- Smith, Johnson, Cotton, Cane.

Tracey Wheaton — 3 Aug 2004 9:42:10 GMT

Mr Salo,
My ancestors were Romani's according to my father, who is not very forthcoming with family details. My fathers family are from Hanley, Shelton and surrounding area's in Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire. The Smiths, I think were the English Roms but one of my great uncles who was a Johnson, married back in it seems to a family that could trace their Romani ancestory back generations. I live in london and do not have contact with my fathers family up north and can't really 'poke' around asking genealogy questions as they are all very private people and I feel nosey asking! My mother and father have Romani family and even they don't elaborate on anything I ask them and feel awkward asking(sounds strange I know). We do have funny traditions though for example not drinking out of other peoples glasses/mugs not eating pre-packed or canned food, cats are banned from our families homes, very very clean houses the list can go on and on and can get boring! Have names for you if you can confirm or steer me in the right direction I would be soooo grateful.
Arthur Henry Johnson ,Phyllis Beatrice Cotton
William H Cotton,Mary Beatrice Smith,Wag or Alfred Cane.

Gypsy Ancestry

saranagypsy1 — 28 Mar 2002 2:44:04 GMT

My G Grandfather Vladimir Sacrov was a Russian Romanian Gypsy. His wife's name was Jutta Hilbert she was 1/2 Hungarian Gypsy half German, she was born in 1901, in St. Petersburg, Russia died in 1985. I do not know her mother's name, only that she was a full blooded Hungarian Gypsy. Vladimir's mother's name was Magdalena she was a Russian Romanian Gypsy. I do not know her last name. I also have no info. on his father, only that his last name was Sacrov. His sister's name was Sarana ILea had two children with a man name Vladimir Norvic, (I believe that is the correct spelling of his last name), he was a Romanian Gypsy. I would greatly appreciate any information you may have on them. Thank you, Susan Pollard

is your family memeber a gypsy?

cynthia — 21 Jun 2004 6:31:24 GMT

ANY TIPS N TRACING TRAVELLERS IN THE FAMILY?

Trunchball1 — 19 May 2004 11:49:09 GMT

HI,
Does anyone have any tips on how to trace gypsies? I believe my ancestors may have been gypsy travellers and I see m to have hit a brick wall. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Romany ancestors from Herefordshire England ?

Janet Burgess — 6 Jun 2004 9:14:22 GMT

I am looking for my husband's ancestors in England. I know that they are Romany from I believe it's Herefordshire area. The surname is Burgess. What I have so far is Walter Frederick Burgess born 1918 died during WWII in Italy. Parents are James William Burgess and Alice ? Spouse was Edith Helen Bower. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Taylor / Wilson/ Hickin /Hicken(s): Birmingham & Warwickshire

NeilFol — 3 Dec 2005 9:29:14 GMT

black dutch gypsie in Texas!

galembln_boston861572 — 21 May 2004 3:05:48 GMT

my grandmother-ol mae tooke-who was black dutch gypsie
descent, lived in Texas back then,which I don't know anything
else about her only I was told she was Black Dutch(Gypsie)&
she died when my father was five or ten years old from TB!
If she have any living relatives in Germany,Texas or anywhere
else,please send me a letter to:DAVID C. BURRELL
1740 WASHINGTON ST.#4
BOSTON,MA 02118

GRANDFATHER:POSIE LEE BURRELL,SR.
GRANDMOTHER:OL MAE TOOKE
FATHER:POSIE LEE BURRELL,JR
MOTHER:DOROTHY JO COOK

ME-DAVID C. BURRELL.

Butler

doloreslittell — 26 Feb 2004 5:51:30 GMT

have hit a wall,lol My Grandfather,Alfred Butler is desended from Napoleon & Sanspa Butler, He was killed in Ukiah Ca 1908, his brothers were George 1864,William 1866,Mary,1867,Byron,1876 and John 1879 any info please !Napoleon was born in Lancheshire England 1820 His father & mother was John & Ann Butler, any info on my greatgrandmother Sanspa, they are listed in the 1880 Wi census

Clausen/Gypsy/King Hans

Sabrina — 30 Jan 2004 10:41:53 GMT

Im trying to find out about the Gypsy who slept with King Hans or anyone who knows they come from the same line as myself! Thanks!

Ryes Aitken

Mary S Moffat — 28 Jan 2004 2:43:38 GMT

Can anyone supply any information about Ryes Aitken? He is mentioned in A History of Dumfries by William McDowall.
Ryes Aitken was a gypsy who was a leader in the village of the Bridgend which was just across the River Nith from Dumfries. But the magistrates of Dumfries had no jurisdiction on the west side of the river. Also there. was a labyrinth of cellars under the Bridgend where anyone wanted by the forces of the law could hide quite easily.
Many gypsies took up residence in the Bridgend when they wanted to retire frim the open road -- and Ryes Aitken was their leader.
But McDowall does not give any further information. He does not even give a date although I would estimate 17th or 18th century.
Does anyone know any more about Ryes ASitken or where I could find out about him.
Thank you. Mary

McCormick - Tinkler Gypsies Of Galloway

Cogan Broll — 18 Jun 2003 11:51:26 GMT

I am looking for a book by Andrew McCormick called The Tinkler Gypsies Of Galloway.

My great nana owned a second edition but has just recently passed away and we don't know where the book has gone. Many of my relatives are featured in this book and it is quite an important book to us.

The book my great nana had was bought when it was first published and was handed down through the family, so it would be nice to try and carry on this tradition (with another copy of the book) and let our future family see and have a piece of our families history.

If you have a copy or know where I could obtain one I would be more than grateful if you could email me.

Thanks

Cogan

Re: Ethnicity help request

jsmith2088191 — 20 Aug 2004 6:05:46 GMT

y family, the Smiths, have been listed as either B or M in all census records and I can prove direct lineage. The earliest ancestor I have found so far was called Gypsy James Smith.

However, a DNA test states that I do not have any African DNA. It does show my Native American heritage since James Smith married a Cherokee woman in South Carolina in the late 1700s or early 1800s.

Has anyone experienced something similar or have suggestions as to why we were identified as such when we were not?

Thanks for any response.

Jim Smith