Product Ref: FH-011
English Genealogy by Anthony Wagner (Second Hand)
English Genealogy by Sir Anthony Wagner is a landmark work that blends scholarly depth with accessible insight into the evolution of genealogical practice in England. First published in 1960 and later revised, it remains a foundational text for anyone serious about tracing English ancestry.
Wagner, who served as Garter Principal King of Arms, brings a herald’s precision to his exploration of lineage, social structure, and the historical context of family history. The book is divided into two main parts: the first two-thirds delve into the social and historical background of English genealogy—examining how family structures, inheritance, and class shaped genealogical records—while the final third focuses on methodology, including the use of heraldic visitations, parish registers, and legal documents.
What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the interplay between genealogy and social history, making it not just a manual for researchers but a thoughtful reflection on how identity and lineage have been recorded and remembered in England.