Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
Who were the Huguenots?
The Huguenots were French Protestants – followers of the Swiss reformer John Calvin, who also inspired the Presbyterian Church of Scotland through his devotee, the notorious Calvinist John Knox (c.1514-1572).
After a lengthy political struggle and eight civil wars – the French Wars of Religion, from 1562 to 1598 – the Catholic monarchy in France cracked down hard on Protestants. Many fled to countries where they could practise their religion freely, such as Britain and the Netherlands. My own French Huguenot ancestors escaped to England and arrived in Kent in the 1680s.
Why are you blogging about this?
Most people don’t know much about the contribution Huguenots made to the countries they fled to, or about these refugees' place in history. The history of migration is highly relevant today, as is the story of religious fundamentalism and its impact on women in particular. I’m interested in the development of Protestantism, and in the tiny sects which spun off from its core ideas.
I was brought up as a Strict Baptist, with many echoes of our family's Huguenot origins; increasingly I’m finding out about other people who were brought up as Strict Baptists, such as the novelist Sarah Perry, the Conservative MP Johnny Mercer and the poet Lemn Sissay. It's fascinating to see what we've got in common.
What does Strict Baptist mean?
Strict Baptist doesn’t mean what most people think it does. It refers to the concept of a “restricted congregation” – not to how strictly people follow the scriptures. Although oddly, strict adherence to implacable rules is a feature of this religion, so it’s no wonder that people get the origins of the term wrong.
Baptists acquired their name because they believe in adult baptism - babies are not baptised because the commitment to Christ must be a decision taken by an adult.
How can I find out more about Huguenots?
The best starting point is The Huguenot Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
The Resources page lists additional organisations I recommend for deeper research.
How can I find out if my ancestors were Huguenots?
It’s easiest to start with the Huguenot Society website.
The Society of Genealogists is fantastic, whether your ancestors were Huguenot or not.
How do I get started with my own family history research?
The Resources page lists organisations which have been set up to help family historians. Local family history societies can be particularly helpful and supportive, and there are plenty of online courses.
Can you recommend any books?
Please see the Bibliography page.
As new relevant books are published, I’ll review them on my blog – watch this space, and follow the blog - just fill in the form below with your name and email address.
