Letter from the Editor

Dear Cousins,

You will see from the following pages that there is quite a lot to report, not least the DNA result opposite and the launch of Lady Ann's cookbook.

Daphne Austin sends me frequent additions to the families' database, the most recent yielded a vast amount of information and revealed the burial records of Blencowes in places new to me. I have printed a long list of parishes whose records would tell us more of the deceased persons. It would be very useful if those of you who live near county record offices were to follow this up and let me have the details.

I received a number of replies to my queries about the Reunion in 2005. There was quite a lot of enthusiasm for a venue in England with most favouring the Lake District. Unfortunately no-one put their hand up to do the organising and it will not be practicable this time round. If we make a firm and early decision for 2007, are prepared to put down deposits up-front, and place the planning and arrangements in the hands of a travel agent then it could be an enjoyable event.

Meanwhile Allen and Gail Blincoe had made a welcome proposal for a gathering at Dayton, Ohio and preliminary details are given on page 15.

With luck most of you will receive this newsletter in time for Christmas. I can take the opportunity to wish you all a Happy Christmas, Prosperous and — above all — Peaceful New Year. I would like to thank those of you who have sent Christmas cards and apologise for not replying to them individually.

Happy Holidays to you all!
Jack Blencowe
Oxford, December 2004.