Find out if it’s all in the genes at talk

AN UPCOMING genealogy talk will give attendees tips to trace their female ancestors as well as an insight into “Grannie” Ferris, a historical nurse and midwife from the Barwon region’s past.

The talk will be hosted by Susie Zada at Kings Chapel on May 16 at 1pm. Ms Zada will give tips for researching some of our more difficult ancestors to find; more specifically female ancestors who may have worked as nurses or midwives.

Ms Zada will talk about the life of “Grannie” Ferris.

“Grannie” worked as a nurse and midwife and even as an unofficial doctor and undertaker in the Barwon region in the late 18th century.

An unmarked cemetery at Newington, just north of Ocean Grove, was where “Grannie” buried more than 10 babies and children, and two husbands.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, females had to resign from their job as soon as they were married; midwives and nurses were the exceptions and Ms Zada will highlight resources currently available for researching female ancestors.

There will also be a bonus opportunity to access free official nursing and midwife records.

To book email [email protected] or phone 5248 3444.

Kings Chapel is located at 130 Bellarine highway, Newcomb.