“From Surnames to Stories: Shaping and Sharing One-Name Studies” – Surnames Study Day

The Society of Genealogists is hosting a Surname Study Day on 16 May 2026. This is a virtual event with the recordings available to those who pre-book. Members of the SOG can claim a discount (login to the SOG website).

Guild of One-Name Studies members can also claim the same discount, for details please comment below for the code.

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Every surname carries a story – of origins, migrations, occupations, and family connections that stretch across time and place. This one-day event brings together a series of expert-led sessions to explore how those stories can be uncovered, developed, and shared through the fascinating world of one-name studies. Whether you are just beginning to explore a surname or looking to deepen an existing project, this day offers valuable insights, practical guidance, and fresh inspiration. 

Led by genealogist Julie Goucher, the programme will take you from understanding the roots and evolution of surnames through to building a structured, meaningful one-name study and turning your research into a lasting resource for others.

The day includes a look at the rich collections of the Society of Genealogists, highlighting the wealth of material available to support and enhance your work. Join us to discover how a single name can open the door to countless stories. 

Understanding Surname Research and One-Name Studies with Julie Goucher

In this session we look at the history of surnames, how and why they began. We also explore surname types, including some non-British examples. We then move to consider several important elements that impact surnames, and conclude the session by looking at some resources and dictionaries.

Resources for Surname Studies at SoG with Else Churchill

The Society’s extensive library and archive collections include much that will be useful for a one name study – and holds several such studies deposited with the Society’s archives. This talk will give an overview of the resources held at the Society and how to find and use them.

Beginning a Surname Project, & Getting the Most from a One-Name Study with Julie Goucher

What is a One-Name Study, why do surname focus projects start and how do they develop? These are all key questions that we shall explore and answer during this session. We look at joining the Guild of One-Name Studies and why that is a valuable resource. We also explore why surname projects are aiming to be global and what key multi-disciplinary elements impact Surnames as we know them. 

Developing a One-Name Study into a Genealogical Resource with Julie Goucher

In this session we continue looking at One-Name Studies starting with keeping data, understanding analysis and synthesis of the data. We look at how these types of studies can be great genealogical resources for the wider genealogical world. We then look at communicating and building relationships with other researchers, and the overlapping elements of publicising, publishing, and preservation of material.

© Julie Goucher and Society of Genealogists