I love this thread, Mya. I am a self-proclaimed amateur geneologist, so I love learning all about people’s (and my own) family histories.

My most well known relation is Robert Burns, the Scottish poet. He and I share a common ancestor, Gilbert Brown. Gilbert was his grandfather and my 6th great-grandfather. Robbie’s uncle, Lawrence Brown emigrated to Prince Edward Island in April of 1770. There’s actually a love story here. Lawrence met a young woman, Jean Jamieson, while sailing to Canada. The married in December 1770, on the shore where their vessel, the Fallmouth,landed.

Another ancestor is Sir Richard Fowler, who was knighted by Edward IV in 1467. He served as Chacellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Chancellor of the Exchequer. Richard’s father, Sir William Fowler was also a Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Under-Treasurer, a Member of Parliament, and Justice of the Peace. He was also the king;s soliciter, the first to hold the position.

My ancestors also include the Dukes of Brittany, Normandy, and a few French kings.

But, my favourite ancetory stories come from my late, paternal grandfather. He was a vetern of WWII. He trained soldiers in north Africa and fought in the Italian campaign, one of the most celebrated here in Canada. He was injured twice. I remember you could still see the shrapnel in his face. He told me stories that I will never forget. For me, he was and is the bravest of my ancetors because he fought for something he believed it, and I owe my freedom to him. I miss him every day, but I recall him with smiles, laughter, and love.