Seeking Margaretta – A Family History Detective Story
In 2007, a family secret came to light: the speaker’s father revealed that he had once had a sister who walked out on the family in 1941 and was never seen again. Her name was never spoken, and no attempt was made to trace her – a silence that lasted more than 60 years.
This revelation sparked a decade-long search, uncovering the story of a young woman born in Winkfield, daughter of a village policeman, who spent her early years moving with the family and living in Chilton, Ardington, Faringdon, and Lambourn, following her father’s postings with the Berkshire Constabulary.
Drawing on over two decades of family history research experience, our speaker will walk us through the methods, tools, and persistence it took to break through multiple brick walls – with the help of archives, online platforms, photographs, and a few incredibly lucky breaks.
Though the story has elements familiar to many researchers – secrecy, estrangement, lost relatives – it is ultimately unique, personal, and deeply human. This two-hour talk is structured like a detective story, with twists and turns throughout, and includes time for questions and discussion along the way.
A compelling case study in family research, this promises to be an insightful and inspiring evening for all.
Tea and Coffee will be available.
Raffle
Large free car park adjacent to the hall.
Visitors and Non-Members are welcome – £5 pp
Image: Members of the Ardington Girls Friendly Society 1922. A colourised photo from the speakers family collection
Date
- Mon 15 Sep 2025
Time
Doors open at 7.00 pm- 19:00 - 21:30
Location
- Long Furlong Community Centre, Boulter Drive, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1XP
Organiser
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Abingdon Branch - Berkshire FHS
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Email
abingdon@berksfhs.org.uk
Speaker
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Colin HicksColin Hicks has led a diverse and unconventional life, beginning as a child of the Welfare State who surprised many by passing the 11-plus and attending the same school as Lawrence of Arabia. A talented young musician and linguist, he studied languages at Reading University, becoming fluent in French with knowledge of Italian and Spanish. His eclectic career spans roles such as folk singer, university lecturer, actor, artistic director, finance worker, cultural diplomat, and more. In retirement, he remains active in his community, advocating for horticulture, heritage, and local initiatives, while also writing a memoir, learning jazz piano, exploring genealogy, and maintaining his language skills. He is a member of the Berkshire Family History Society.