The most interesting developments since the Blencowe book was compiled derive from DNA analyses (p.416).

The ancestry of the Blencowes of Virginia (p.310) can be traced back to 14thC Adam de Blencow. Taking the DNA analysis of one of that family as the “type specimen” samples from other family groups were compared. It was found that the DNA of the Blincoes of North America (p.214), the Blinkos and Blincos of Hedgerley (p.201) and the Blencowes of Sussex were identical. All descend in unbroken succession from the same male ancestor.

Meanwhile, it was discovered that the Sussex Blencowes descend not from a farmer of that county but from a younger brother of George “the Inventor” (p.337). This means that the Essex Blencowes also descend from the same common ancestor and confirms the probable descent of Thomas, Surgeon's Mate of H.M.S. Dragon (p.343), from John Blincoe the apothecary of London (p.179).

The Blincows and Blencowes of Whilton and Long Buckby (p.187) and the Blincoes of Gawcott and Wisconsin (p.301) each have different DNA profiles indicating probable births out-of-wedlock some time before the 16-17thC. DNA analysis failed to confirm (or deny) the family tradition that the foundling Robert Blincoe (p.329) was an illegitimate son of a Blencowe parson.

Turning to 'The Tale of the Missing Heir' (p.408): One of Thomas Blencowe's descendants found his record in the Census of 1851; he gave his birthplace as Helmdon, not Brackley as Mrs Tait believed. That would make him the son of Nathaniel Blencowe and Jenny Hiron, baptised there 9 June 1792; a disappointing end to a long-held family tradition. I suggest you print this and insert it in THE BOOK for future readers.

Jack Blencowe
Oxford January 2007