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Drawing of tomb commemorating Margaret Smyth.
Thomas Smyth, first husband, buried 1592. |
Received 26 December 2012
Smythe family history at the
Church of St. Laurence, Blakemore Co., Essex
Hello!
I am writing to try and find
out some information about my ancestors from Essex. A historical book I am
reading titled, "Smith of Scotland Neck, Planters of the Roanoke"
(the state of Virginia in the U.S.) recalls the history of the Smith (Smythe)
family, to whom I related. The information goes all the way back to the 1500's
with the family of Thomas Smythe of Rivenhall in Essex. It goes on to mention
John Smith and another Thomas Smythe (of Smythe's Hall in Blakemore), and his
wife, Margaret, who were entombed in alabaster in the Church of St. Laurence in
Blakemore County, Essex.
Later descendants of these
Smythe's were granted land in Virginia, where eventually their name was changed
to Smith and this is from where my great-grandmother's lineage comes.
I have no idea if perhaps you
know of this church or the effigies, if yours is the church, or if I'm not on
the right path at all! But, I am hoping you have some information or can point
me in the right direction in learning more of my family's history in England.
Perhaps one day some of us here can take a trip and see the land and sights of
Essex!
Thank you so much, and I wish
you a blessed Christmas season!
Megan Clark
North Carolina, USA
Replied 27 December 2012
Dear Megan
Thank you for your e
mail. Blackmore Area Local History
contains a large amount of correspondence on the Smyth family and their links
with the United States. See
http://blackmorehistory.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Smyth%20family
. In addition there are a number of pages on the main website:
www.blackmorehistory.co.uk which
are best viewed by following the links from the blog. I will post this entry in due course in order
to add to the story.
With best wishes
Andrew Smith (no relation)
