The focus of the research

The surname Armstrong is amongst the most prominent of the riding families. It is synonymous with the history of the Anglo-scottish Border Region. It was therefore no surprise that Lyn was keen to investigate her potential reiving roots. The worldwide interest in the Border Reivers together with an Armstrong surname DNA project suggested there was an outside chance of success. But first the ‘roadblock’ at John Armstrong, her second great-grandfather, required clearing.

Above: Marriage of John Armstrong and Mary Kirk 9 February 1811. Durham Diocese Bishop’s Transcripts, 1639-1919 Northumberland, Haltwhistle 1758-1858 p.262.