IHGS Genies On Tour
In 2014, a small group of enthusiastic genealogy students met on a day course at the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) in Canterbury. What began as a shared curiosity soon blossomed into something much more lasting—a bond of support, laughter, and mutual encouragement that came to be known as The IHGS Genies on Tour.
From that first encounter, it was clear this group had “gelled” in a way that was rare and meaningful. They were brought together by a common challenge: to tackle the IHGS Lectures and ultimately succeed in their exams. But what sustained them through the process was camaraderie—a blend of tea breaks, study tips, and shared genealogical “squeeeeee!” moments. They are convinced they are all connected in one way or another and will unravel that mystery in time.
To keep the momentum going through the HC course - and their spirits high, the Genies decided to take their support network on the road. Thus began the tradition of the IHGS Genies On Tour—an annual gathering that combined historical exploration with a good old-fashioned catch-up. Each year, a new location has been chosen and hosted by one of the Genies, each visit steeped in heritage and charm, reflecting the Genies’ love for local history and storytelling.
The Journey So Far:
• 2014 – Canterbury: Where it all began. The seed of the IHGS Genies were planted during those day courses and flourished from there. The tale of the ‘naked man in the night’ at the Millers Arms will never be forgotten!
• 2014 – York: Their first trip away together. The spirit of the tour was born here—equal parts learning and laughter. York Minster and Second Hand Bookshops!
• 2015 – Edinburgh: A city rich in archives and ancestry, ideal for the budding genealogists. They enjoyed researching in the Historical Search Room before a Ghost Tour in the evening.
• 2016 – London: A researcher's paradise, with its sprawling resources and iconic landmarks. A visit to Dennis Severs House (Huguenots of Spitalfields) was something not to be missed.
• 2017 – Durham: Cathedral views and college cloisters made for an inspiring backdrop. A visit to the archives to see some documents was a great way of breathing in the history of Durham.
• 2018 – Chesterfield: Known for its iconic crooked spire and the Chesterfield Museum. They explored the magnificent Chatsworth House, with an inspiring tour of its grand interiors and stunning grounds. Later, a visit to the mist-shrouded grounds of Hardwick Hall added a touch of mystery to the day.
• 2019 – Dorset: Coastal walks and countryside tales—a slower pace and rich local lore.
• 2019 – Ally Pally (Mini GoT): A mini-meet, but with maximum enthusiasm.
• 2020 – Zoom Calls: The pandemic may have kept them apart, but the Genies adapted—staying connected and committed online.
• 2021 & 2022 – Covid Pause: Official tours were on hold, but the bonds held fast.
• 2023 – Faversham: A welcome return to in-person gatherings, complete with historic pubs and fresh research ideas. A guided tour around Faversham showing the amazing Tudor buildings by a world-class guide.
• 2024 – Ipswich: Diving into Suffolk's secrets and stories. A tour around Ipswich town centre visiting incredible churches and learning about the medieval history of the town again by another world-class guide. Their Tenth Anniversary.
• 2025 – Carlisle: The latest adventure will take place in October 2025, and will bring the Genies to the edge of Hadrian’s Wall, and back into each other’s arms.
More Than Just a Group
What makes the IHGS Genies special isn’t just their shared studies or the miles they’ve travelled. It’s the way they’ve built a community that has lasted well beyond the classroom. From exam nerves to archive visits, from laughter-filled dinners to quiet moments of reflection, the Genies have supported one another through it all. It has never mattered where they live (Scotland, England, France or New Zealand) – coming together for a long weekend every year has been the highlight of their calendars. As they prepare for their next tour to Carlisle one thing remains clear: wherever the IHGS Genies go, they carry with them not just a passion for genealogy, but a sense of kinship that can’t be found in any record book.
The GeniesOnTour are: Alison Standen; Barbara Nineham; Caroline Savage; Geoff Young; Ian Worthington; Jen Fillery; Linda Jackson; Lorna Kinnaird; Lynn Heiden; Maggie Gaffney; Pam Smith and Wendy Tait.
Lorna Kinnaird
Course Tutor/GoT
