We are pleased to announce that the winning entry from our IHGS Diamond Essay Competition is now available to read. It will also be published in the December edition of our journal Family History.
The Page Family of Liverpool by Marie Palmer ©Marie Palmer 2021
Nick Barratt's review of the winning entry:
This was a very moving account of poverty in Liverpool – gritty, raw and powerful. The story was very well researched and written with layers of social history and context that drew the reader in, allowing them to empathise with the struggles and adversity that Mary and James faced throughout their lives. The poverty and tragedy were brought to life by the quotes and extracts, making this an absorbing and compelling piece of story telling as well as showcasing the research methodology that underpinned it. I was particularly impressed by the honesty of this account, with Mary’s difficulties laid bare by recollections from later generations. Too many family histories turn into a hagiography; this story revealed the lengths people would go to in their struggle to survive.
Many thanks again to all who entered the competition, Nick Barratt for judging the entries and congratulations to Marie Palmer.
Please be aware that the essay is copyrighted and all rights reserved ©Marie Palmer 2021
