(I tried to send this message on Sunday, but used an old address of mine and it didn't get through. I have since corresponded with Beryl, but am sending the original message in case it's of interest to anyone else.) Beryl, I am so glad to know of someone else with this interest! I have found my research both intriguing and frustrating and will be very glad indeed to share notes. I'm Maria BRACEY's great-granddaughter, nee Anne GRAY, granddaughter of Alice Maud GRAY, nee BRACEY, Maria's 5th illegitimate child (your grandfather Ernest was her 3rd, I think) born in 1880. Do you have the photo of your grandmother Maud outside the shop in Gustard Wood? And the Wheathampstead video which shows Maud inside the shop? Have you been to the Wheathampstead website, which is a treasure trove? And do you have ANY CLUE AT ALL as to the father(s) of any of Maria's children, including Ernest Arthur and Alice Maud, along with Mary Ann, Charles Henry and Herbert George?? I have Maria's death certificate and will be glad to pass on details from that if you don't have it. I also have other info. about her parentage and siblings -- just let me know what you have and what you need -- apart from the elusive consort(s) which I'm sure we both crave! Happy to hear from you, second (?) cousin, and I look forward to the next instalment. Anne Treadwell, Nova Scotia -----Original Message----- From: Brian Winfield [ <mailto:brian.winfield1@ntlworld.com> mailto:brian.winfield1@ntlworld.com] Sent: Friday, August 19, 2005 10:05 AM To: ENG-HERTFORDSHIRE-L@rootsweb.com Subject: Bracey I am interested in researching the Bracey family of Gustard Wood, Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire. My grandfather was Ernest Bracey, born 1875. He married Maud Carter in 1897. I am particularly interested in his mother Maria Bracey, born 1846. Many thanks, Beryl Woodhead