Genealogy Chat

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My grandfather has wanted nothing to do with me since I was born but I have met him a couple of times. I recently wrote him a letter explaining that I was researching my family history and that I didn't have any proper details for him except DOB. I wanted to know his brothers and sisters names ( I know there are a lot) and parent's details so I could trace the line back. I never received an answer from him or his new wife. Is it wrong to try and get a copy of the marriage certificate without his permission, if I have my Nan's permission? I know the exact date of the marriage so wouldn't be too difficult. What does everyone think? Has anyone else come across this?

If you mean the certificate of your grandfather's parents' marriage not sneaky at all. They are YOUR great grandparents, don't just belong to grandad. Just re read your message. Perhaps you mean your grandad's marriage certificate. You say you have Nan's permission - it was her marriage too so go for it.

Karen, Of course you can send for the certificate. The information is in the public domain anyway. I have loads of certificates - many are of people who I have never met but they do have a blood relationship with me. It's the only way to confirm some of your research by sending for certificates. Cheers, Horatia

Perosnally I do not think there is any reason why you should not obtain the certificate. These things are available to anyone! As long as when it comes to putting the details on a site such as this you do not divulge the info of living rellies. Once you get to rellies no longer living then its open house. Suzanne

Thankyou, I wasn't quite sure where I stood as he obviously doesn't want to be included in my family.

Karen, I take it this is just private research? You won't be emblazoning him over a website or anything? If it is just for private research then I think it is OK. He might not want to associate with you, but genes is genes and blood is blood - you can't change that, even if you'd like to sometimes!!! (Tee-Hee)! Cheers, Horatia

Yes it's all private research. It's for a family history book I'd like to pass down to my daughter.

Karen, Yes, send for that certificate ASAP because Who Do You Think You Are will be back on the telly again this month and last time it nearly caused the GRO to fall over with extra work - certs were taking AGES to arrive. That's my tip for the day! Cheers, Horatia

If I give someone the exact date, could they look the marriage up for me please? PM for the details, that way it can still be private.