NEWS (update March 2020)
In the last Open day in 2019 it was agreed to arrange the next one for 30th May 2020. However given the situation now we have decided to cancel it this year.
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As with all enquiries, we try to help as much as we can. Sharing what we have and updating trees. It is great when someone starts their research and 'doors open' to lead to new information and contact with family members they didn't know they had.
One new enquiry and who joined the RFA is Michelle of Australia . From information she provided it was easily clear to which tree she connected to . Past member Alec Rix, who had joined in the early days of the Rix Alliance, had along with his brother-in-law Louis, done a lot of research and had collated this into a book form with writeups and photos. Louis had saved it all to a CD which I was able to share with Michelle.
Michelle's ancestors had moved to Northumberland and she was very interested in knowing why and to find out more about her family .
The following is from Michelle...
Update: In Jan 2020 I was researching Northumberland Coal Mining towns that Rix relatives lived in and came across a history page on the subject on Facebook. Whilst scrolling through I noticed a post from someone saying her mother was a Rix. I have never contacted anyone saying "I wonder if we are related". For a long while I have hoped I might be re-connected and since my grandfather was one of 12 children I was pretty sure there were lots of relatives out there. I and assumed connection might come from my Ancestry account or the Rix Family Alliance. So I made contact and after a few messages discussing relatives we established they were descendants of my grandfather's brother. Family members remembered my grandfather (Albert Percy Rix) and my father and I found out the contact with the Rix side of the family was lost from a rift in the family which occurred due to my grandmother re-marring so soon after my grandfather Albert Percy Rix died. I am now reconnected with my Rix relatives and am thrilled to have lots of new cousins.
New Members
Lynn from Lancashire, connects to the Dagenham family tree.
Peter from Warwickshire , connects to James Rix 1788 Yaxham. He also connects to member 364, Andrew. they are sharing information to extend theirs family trees.
Michelle of Australia connects to past member Alec Rix . Originating Burnham and Wells next the Sea Norfolk.
Jenny whose family tree starts in East Rudham
Donna , from the US. Family descend from Robert Rix 1581 Palgrave
Matthew from Leeds, whose line is from Poringland John Rix and Mary Ann Fransham
Don who has rejoined an dis from Yately, he has done more on his family tree and connects to Matthew from Leeds.
Enquiries have been from Brian who line descends from Poringland
Brooke from the US who descends from Thomas Rix Kenninghall Norfolk
RFA member Peter B has been transcribing Wills and adding family history information as a footnote, making these really useful pieces of research. It updates what the RFA hold in Wills but the extra work Peter has done is extremely helpful and so relevant. It's very much appreciated and a great resource for the Rix families.
Will for William Loades Rix of Little Walsingham 1842
https://rix-one-name.net/wloadesrixwalsingham.pdf
Will for William Rix of Swaffham 1839
https://rix-one-name.net/willrixswaffham.pdf
Will for Thomas Rix of Tittleshall 1856
https://rix-one-name.net/tomrixtittleshall.pdf
Will for Peter Rix of Norwich St Benedict 1814
https://rix-one-name.net/peterrixnorwich.pdf
Will for Mary Rix of Docking 1836
https://rix-one-name.net/maryrixdocking.pdf
Will of Margaret Rix East Dereham 1839
https://rix-one-name.net/margaretrixdereham.pdf
Will for Lucy Rix of Wicklewood 1833
https://rix-one-name.net/lucyrixwicklewood.pdf
Will for George Rix of Tharston 1806
https://rix-one-name.net/georgerixtharston.pdf
Will for Esther Rix of Norwich 1838
https://rix-one-name.net/estherrixnorwich.pdf
Will for Benjamin Rix of Heacham 1835
https://rix-one-name.net/benrixheacham.pdf
Rix Open Day 8th June 2019
The Rix Alliance 40th anniversary Open Day again took place at New Buckenham Village Hall with nine members attending, a good turn out despite the wet weather which made travelling more difficult.
We were delighted that David and Michael Rix and their wives, who were all on holiday in Norfolk, were able to join us during the afternoon. Their visit gave them the opportunity to meet other Rix and to talk about their family tree.
The usual sandwich and finger food lunch followed by strawberries and cream was enjoyed by everyone.
During the afternoon the AGM took place with the current Chair and Committee members re-elected. Membership of the Alliance has stayed about the same level at 29 members. Sue Simpson talked through the financial situation from information that Susie Rix had provided. Finances have remained at much the same amount as last year with the cost of the Open Days being almost covered by the charge made on the day.
Membership fees are reviewed annually and it was agreed that the membership fee should remain at £5.00 per member.
A discussion took place on how frequently the open Days should be held and whether this should be bi-annual rather than annual. Most Members wished to continue meeting each year as everyone is getting older and this was agreed as the way forward.
A date of 30th May 2020 was proposed for next year's Open Day probably at the same venue. The venue has all the facilities needed to host the Open Day including wifi and good parking for a very reasonable cost although we appreciate it is a little off the beaten track.
If anyone wishes to come along in 2020 and would like to know more about the area and accommodation facilities then please contact:
Sheelagh Rix telephone: 07780 986053
Sue Simpson email: sueanddave.simpson@btinternet.com
Also if any member wishing to join us would need transport from say Norwich or Wymondham or any where else in the area, this can be arranged. Please let us know so this can be sorted out well in advance.
Sue Simpson
9th June 2019
News update May 2019
Congratulations
Sheelagh Rix, RFA member for many years, was awarded Citizen of the Year by Hertfordshire Police in October 2018 for her work the previous year. Nominees are put forward by a police officer and voted for by the staff. Sheelagh was thrilled to receive hers for her voluntary work as ' an appropriate adult' performing duties 'above and beyond'
News Update 2018/2019
Lots of interest this year in family history. Back in June and July we have had enquiries from Sally Jones whose ancestry is from Norwich. Tyler Rix from the US.
Lynn who connects to the Dagenham family tree, giving her connections to past RFA members.
Graham from Australia who is connected to the Swanton Morley line (see Rix Meeting in Australia organised by Lynley Hall earlier in the News page)
More recently we had new members joining: Tony Rex whose research has taken him back to Norfolk and the name Rix.
Bev who connects to the Bylaugh tree. Robbie who connects to Rix of PEI
Joanna from Berkshire who connects to Tasburgh tree two members of the RFA.
Laura who descends from Norwich line shared some information. Neil who is helping his cousin find information about South Africa Rix line.
Marie found her research took her back to East Lexham.
Tina trying to find information for her nephews and nieces, found the Rix went back to Watton Norfolk.
An enquiry from Kristyna who connects to Wrentham tree. Anne was researching for her cousin and shared information about Henry Rix and sought clarification that she was following the correct one. Either Bylaugh, East Lexham or Swanton Morley
We exchange and share as much information as we can at the time, hoping to help those interested in getting started with their research. Our trees are added to, though it's a never ending story. Those who have recently made contact will share more when they can.
Report by Sue Simpson for the Open Day in June:
The Rix Family Alliance Open Day
2nd June 2018
The Open Day was held this year at a new venue, the Village Hall in New Buckenham where the facilities were excellent, both for lunch and with wifi for members to work with their laptops and files.
We were delighted that Joan Sheppard was able to join us again and reflected on the loss of her husband Graham.
A total of thirteen members attended the event this year. A sandwich and finger food lunch followed by strawberries and cream and apple pie was enjoyed by everyone.
During the afternoon the AGM took place with the current Chair and Committee members re- elected. Marilyn Rix resigned as secretary due to pressure of other commitments and Sue Simpson agreed to take on the role. A debate took place about the Alliance and on how best to promote and advertise the Open Day in order to encourage more people to come along and share information. We also discussed the new Data Protection Act (GDPR) and the implications for the Alliance.
A date of the 1st June was proposed for next year's Open Day at the same venue.
If anyone wishes to join us in 2019 and would to know more about the area and accommodation facilities then please contact Sheelagh or Sue for assistance.
Sheelagh Rix: Telephone 07780 986053
Sue Simpson: email: sueanddave.simpson@btinternet.com
As has become the custom, nine members met up in the evening at the King's Head New Buckenham for dinner where we enjoyed a very pleasant meal.
Richard Rix, a member many years ago and contributor with articles for the journals we used to publish, has rejoined recently. Hoping to now continue with his family history research.
Wendy Rix, a member many years ago, has rejoined and is hoping to take up her family research again. Her line descends from Norwich.
Online Enquiry from :
Sandy Rix of Australia has connections to North and South Walsham, Ashellthorpe and Thrandeston. Hoping to find out more on their family tree.
News February 2018
It was with sadness we learned that Graham Sheppard (Member 238) has died. He was an enthusiastic family researcher for his family and his wife, Joan, (Rix) and they had been a members for many years. They regularly attended the Rix Open day . Graham often took the group photo from the day which was included in the Rix Journals. Joan continues as a member of the Rix Alliance.
New Members
Carla Wingert USA - origins Wiggenhall Norwich
Andrew Barker of Farnham Surrey
Richard Rix of Ashford Kent - origins Wrentham tree
Kylie Morrisey of NSW Australia - origins w Lexham Norfolk
Bernie Heworth of Coulby Newham Middlesborough
Searching for Sarah Rix who married Samuel Sandell. This is probably the daughter of Thomas Rix of North Creake further back the line is Hindolveston.
Shawn Rix of Tiptree Essex who connects to the Watton tree
Open Day Saturday 3rd June
Once again this was a lovely day in Cringleford Norwich. The venue, Action for the Blind, was ideal for a small gathering. The weather was kind, sunny and warm.
The AGM was done before lunch with no issues arising and good to know the RFA can continue despite the small membership, However we learned that the venue is no longer available for us to use for future meetings. Some ideas were put forward as where it could be but no decision was made, Only the date provisionally 2nd June.
David Blakely talked a little about his new book 'Ship, Shawls and Loyal Service' that came out October 2016. It's now available on Amazon
Trevor continues to receive interest in his DNA project.
The website continues to receive inquiries
A buffet lunch was organised and prepared by Sue and Sheelagh; this was lovely, especially the strawberries and cream. It was great to be able to talk to others, exchanging news and information. So quickly the day came to an end, some a longer journey home than others but a good time had by all.
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What has been happening throughout the year...
An interesting enquiry came from Angela Walters :
I am trying to trace my late aunt and godmother's first husband who was known as Captain W. Rix.
There then followed many emails and exchanges with Angela while we tried to find out who this Captain Rix was. As this is my area of the UK I had done much research on Lord Rix tree and his family. Angela knew them and had been touch with some of the family but they knew nothing of Captain Rix. In fact with all the research it was clear that no one existed in the area with the name.
The end result eventually gave up more of the family story , that Dorothy had had a child before her marriage in 1959. He had been adopted. However we never found out who Captain Rix was. Although Angela had from an old address a Mrs John Rix of London ( the name John is written over the name Wilton)
We couldn't make a sensible connection given the dates and the time this was all meant to happen
It shows how hard it can been when family stories don't match with true facts.
It is still very interesting non the less.
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Ian Howard, a Rix member for many years, said his cousin, John Vignolles Rix ( born 1932 in South Africa) who Pat Rix ( research secretary) had succeeded in finding for him 10 years ago, sadly, had died recently. John's father and Ian's grandmother we half brother and sister. Ian's family story is in Journal 83, 71 and 70 and tells his story of Rix in India and trying to trace is ancestor Walter Burton Rix born 1842.
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Roger Rix of Idaho shared what he knew of his family ancestry. He was trying to establish the origins of his family in the UK. He did eventually do the DNA test with Trevor
This is his lineage that he shared :
Roger Alan Rix B 1935 IN, USA father
Wilber Rix IN, USA
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Charlotte Preston joined in August 2016. She has done extensive research into her family. and shared what she knew. Her line is from Norwich.
Peter Rix b 1936
Albert Rix 1910-1999
John Gilling Rix 1865-1940
John Gilling Rix 1846-1920
George Gilling Rix 1804-1873
John Rix 1784
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Bert Arter shared his family history. His Rix ancestry traced back to Edward b. 1728 and d. 1803 in East Rudham. His great grandson, Robert b. 1834 married Charlotte Langley. She was Bert's gr gr grandmother.
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Another enquiry came from Karen France. Her gr grandmother was Martha Rix. She traced back to Wells next the Sea and Wareham All Saints and Holkham. Martha b 1875 was daughter of Martha Ann Allison and George Rix. It became a large family as George had been married twice before. His 2nd wife Rebecca Hudson had had children as did George.
Martha b 1875 married George Drew. They lived in Lowestoft and Leslie their son went to Australia in 1922.
Being able to access Ancestry for Karen was brilliant as I could piece together more information for her, although this wasn't then following a direct Rix line. She had always wondered how and when her grandfather, Leslie, had emigrated. Little information was passed on down as her gr grandparents had stayed in the UK and her grandfather hadn't spoken about them. So this was great to be able to exchange and share information with Karen. Although the RFA records showed George Rix and his marriages to Rebecca and Martha, nothing else was added till now about their children.
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Rix Reunion in Australia 22nd October 2016
Organised by Lynley Hall
She wrote to say: 'It was a great success with people coming from all over Victoria as well as New South Wales and Tasmania. It is only a small family line. We had over 50 descendants and family members at the Reunion, celebrating 150 years since the family arrived in Australia.
Henry Tuthill Rix (b.1824 in Wendling, Norfolk), and his wife Frances and young son Henry arrived in Victoria on 16 February 1866 on the Mary Warren. They settled in Hawthorn area of Melbourne. He is my great-great grandfather. His father was Henry Rix (m. Hannah Crown) and a brother to Barnabas. Their father was Henry Tuthill Rix (m. Martha Lemon)
She adds:-
'I suspect that no-one in Australia ever knew about Barnabas. I'm so glad that I have been able to find out quite a lot about him'
The following is about Barnabas by Lynley
A Convict in the Family
Two months ago I discovered I had a convict in my family - finally! I have been searching for one since I first started doing my Family History way back in 1979. I had been doing extensive research ready for the Rix Reunion I was running in October on the Rix side of my family. So I returned to many documents and articles I had accumulated over the years. In a booklet written in England by a family member in 1993 I saw a line I hadn't previously noticed in regard to the family of Henry Tuthill Rix and his wife Martha Lemon, of Swanton Morley, Norfolk. It said "Their son Barnabas appears to have settled in Australia." So I decided to investigate and soon realised that he hadn't 'gone to Australia' but rather was 'sent to Australia'. I now have a 2 folders of information about Barnabas!
Barnabas Rix was born in Swanton Morley, Norfolk and baptised at the parish church on 23rd May 1779. He was the second son born to Henry Tuthill Rix and Martha (nee Lemon). He had been named after Martha's father Barnabas Lemon. He evidently received a good education, and in 1794 he is listed as an apprentice grocer working for Robert Cooper in East Dereham Norfolk. His father was a tenant farmer who rented various lands in Swanton Morley area. By all accounts he was a good farmer, but with 6 children to rear life for the family was obviously hard. By 1807 Barnabas was living in Canterbury, Kent employed by Shrubsole and Darke, linen drapers of Burgate Street, Canterbury. he had only been working for them for a few days when he was accused of stealing 2 pieces if Irish Linen in march 1807. He was sentenced in January 1808 and comvicted on 11th July 1808 to 7 years transportation. (his mother died 2 months later- probably not a coincidence. Knowing that your son was being transported would be enough to break any mother's heart)
Barnabas spent several months in Westgate Gaol in Canterbury before being transferred to the prison hulk 'Captivity' in Portsmouth Harbour. He endured nearly 3 years on the hulk. On 2nd July 1810 John Wodehouse petitioned on his behalf, the grounds for clemency were 'previous excellent character, he has served 2 years in a prison ship, has been recommended by some respectable people of this county and is willing to serve his Majesty in any way that he may be ordered' . Barnabas also petitioned on behalf of 'a thousand convicts on board His Majesties Hulk 'Captivity', 'Laurel' and 'Portland' laying in Portsmouth and Langston harbours'. The verdict: 'No Mercy'.
On 12th May 1911 he sailed on the 'Admiral Gambier', a convict ship carrying 199 male convicts and arrived in Sydney on 29th September 1811. Barnabas was transferred to Windsor, about 60 miles from the Sydney settlement and worked there as 'Clerk at His Majesty's Stores' a position of responsibility in the Hawksbury area, the 'feeding ground' of the new colony. While there Barnabas was witness to a number of business transactions and weddings. He also worked as Assistant School Manager in Windsor. In 1815, when he had served his sentence, he applied to return to England on the Northampton. However this didn't eventuate. it seems he never received his Ticket of Leave as he always has FS against his name - Free by Servitude. He applied and was granted 60 acres of land in 1821, but doesn't seem to have taken up the land grant. He remained a lodger and school teacher in the Windsor district. He never married.
In the early 1830s he was asked by John Hillas, a pioneer in the Goulburn area, to move to 'Bunnaby Station' at Bannaby near Taralga and teach the Hillas children. A school room was set up on the station and Barnabas taught some other local children as well. When Barnabas died on 16th December 1845, he was buried on Bunnaby Station. John Hillas obviously thought a lot of Barnabas Rix as he erected a monumental headstone where Barnabas was buried, in the gully behind the shearing shed. Until recent years it remained on the station but is now located in Taralga in the grounds of the Historical Society. The Society have kindly sent me a photo of the headstone which bears the inscription: - "Erected by John Hillas in memory of Barnabas Rix who departed this life on the 16th December 1845. Aged 72 years."
NEWS
The Rix Open day took place on Saturday the 4th June. The sun was out and it was a lovely warm day. The 2nd year at Business Centre in Cringleford, kindly organised by Derek Rix.
Twenty three people came and that included new members and new enquiries. Peter, Sasha and Joshua had travelled down from Mansfield to seek information about their family history. Madeline and David had recently joined the RFA and came along to meet up and also to further their family history search.
Both Marilyn and Trevor has their PCs set up and were helping where they could. It was brilliant to have access to wifi.
David Blakely came this year and gave a talk about a book he has written which will be available in September.
Ships,Shawls and Loyal Service. It is the stories of three East Anglian brothers.
'the history of three 19th century brothers, each of whom saw some success in his chosen occupation, but each quite distinct from the others in what he achieved. Inspired by the extensive family tree drawn up in the early 20th century by one of his great uncles, David Blakely relates the stories of his three ancestors.'
Published: 29th September ISBN 9781785893308
Distributer: Orca Books Services
A welcome buffet lunch was provided by Sue and Sheelagh , during which Trevor Rix talked about the DNA project and the progress he had made.
The AGM meeting and Committee meeting took place later in the afternoon. Arthur Rix, unbable to attend this year due to family committments, has stepped down as Secretary. Marilyn Rix has taken on the role. Derek Rix continues as Chair, Susie Rix webmaster and treasurer, with Sue Simpson assistant treasurer. Trevor Rix DNA project manager and Sheelagh Rix and Arthur Rix committee members.
Help is welcome from everyone and is was agreed that on further Open days that it would be brilliant if anyone wanted to share a family story , some interesting research or information and they would like to share with everyone then they should do so.in short talk on the day.
There was a lot of discussion in both meetings; all were welcome to stay and offer any ideas and contribute. Much of the difficulty is increasing the attendance at the Open day, but as Rix families are wide spread, the distance to travel is much of the problem.
We had travelled from Hull, not a long journey 'as the crow flies' but one that takes approximately five hours with one short stop. But this time as the date had changed to take place in the school half term, we were able to stay a few days in Norwich, making most of the journey we had travelled.
The timing seemed to suit everyone, so as a result, next year the Open day will be Saturday 3rd June and held at the same venue. We would love more to attend so please try to come along.
Susie
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New Members this year:
Madeline Gray of Alpheton. She is researching her Grandfather who was born in Heckingham. She is part of the same tree as Pauline Wilkinson (287) Carol Bavage (284) and Stephen Rix (348)
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Sheila Rix Chapman of Neath West Glamorgan Wales. She is descended from the Wicklewood line and is sister to Richard Rix of Toronto ( who contributed to news articles in the past journals)
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David Lewis of Norton Fitzwarren
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Daniel Rix of Eastleigh Hampshire who is just starting his family research - descended from Frederick Firley Rix born 1879 Middlesex. After further research Daniel is able to back to John Rix born 1789 Thorpe le Soken Essex. Daniel also connects to a past RFA (178) member Gerald Rix whose father George William was Frederick 's brother
Another recent enquiry came from Roger Rix who is looking for information on Dempsey Rix of North Carolina. c1760. His father was William Rix c 1730 of Northampton North Carolina. The name, on investigation, was probably spelt Ricks. Dempsey Rix built a Quaker Meeting House in North Carolina. His son John built a Quaker House in Ohio. These details were from early Colonial entries. Roger's Rix were all from North Carolina, Ohio and Indiana.
An enquiry from Ian Byers who is trying to find Richard Rix and Elizabeth. Their daughter Martha married John Housego 20th November 1803 Norwich. Their son John emigrated to Australia when he joined the army
A recent enquiry from Sandra Pollard who i s looking to make contact with others on her tree. She is descended through Bryant Rix of Australia. Also descended from the same line are Gay Grogan (RFA member) and past members Michelle Barnes and Janet Fontana.
Lynley Hall has rejoined the RFA this year. She is organising a reunion in Australia to celebrate the Rix family emigrating there 100 years ago.
Lynley said: I've had great fun getting into your site and catching up on the last editions of the Register.
From the Welwyn Hatfield Times 9th March 2016
Roslyn Calvete
CALVETE Roslyn Edyth (nee Rix) Calvete passed away at home after a long illness. Missed by Louis, Claire, Joanne and family. No flowers and in accordance with Roslyn's wishes, no funeral service.
Louis and Ros were RFA members from the early days. Louis had completed the family tree some years ago and shared it with the RFA on disk and booklet form. Ros's brother Alex, who died some years ago , was also a member of the RFA. They were regular attendees of the Rix annual meetings.
Online enquiry shared their information to add to the East Rudham tree for Valentine Rix. Joseph George Stanley married Georgina Rix in Great Yarmouth she was the daughter of George Valentine Rix born 1856 grandson of Valentine Rix born 1808 and Mary Crane.
David Culley sent the following as he thought it would be of interest to others researching their family tree.
'I have a full genealogy of this branch from ca 1535, Heacham. I think you will find other contributors to your site will also refer to the early history, perhaps up to Israel Rix born Wighton whose sister Elizabeth married John Hastings at Wighton in 1769. This junior Israel Rix 1753 - 1837 (buried Litcham) was the grandfather of George Rix in the photo.
It may be of interest that there appear to have been NO Rix in the Swinton/Mexborough/Kilnhurst area of S Yorks until a migration of several descendants of Israel starting ca 1840. All the current Rix families in the area are likely to be descendants. George was the last to leave Norfolk, my guess is he terminated his employment at Lady Day and set off shortly thereafter.'
The Rix Family Alliance Open Day on 20th June 2015
Sheelagh Rix on 07780 986053 or Sue Simpson via email at: sueanddave.simpson@btinternet.com for assistance.
News from FFHS
Ahead of the funding bid to be submitted this autumn we are conducting a survey to find out how non-academic and academic researchers would use and value this resource. I would be very grateful if you could share this with your members
http://www.writinglives.org/
The following information was sent in by David Bethell who is currently indexing the records of the civil pleas held before the justices de Banco at Westminster, in Hilary term of the 1st year of Queen Elizabeth (1559).
In the Common Pleas for 1548 there are two entries concerning a single case involving, together, a Richard Rix of Brundish, Suffolk, husbandman, Thomas Ryx of Moulton, Norfolk. husbandman, and William Ryx of Winfarthing, Norfolk, tailor.
In the second hearing, although only a few weeks after the first, has two of the sums owed increased, but, more importantly, the Richard Rix of Brundish becomes transmuted into a Robert Rix.
Source: Public Record Office:
CP 40/1135
Title: Common Pleas Hilary 1 & 2 Edward VI
Hilary 1548
Westminster
Pl'ita apud Westmr coram Edwardo Mountagu Milite & Sociis suis Justic' d'ni Regis de Banco de Termi'o s'ci Hillarij Anno regni Edwardi sexti dei gr'a Angl' Franc' & Hibn Regs fidei defensoris & in trra eccl'ie Anglicane & Hib'nice suprmi capitis primo & secundo
Pleas at Westminster before Edward Mountagu knight and his fellows, justices of the lord king de Banco, for Hilary term in the 1st and 2nd year of the reign of Edward the sixth by the grace of God king of England, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, and on earth Supreme Head of the English and Irish church
Norff'
Joh'es Bonde p attorn' suu' op' se iiijto de vrsus Ric'm Rix' nup de Brundisshe in Com' Suff' Husbondman' de pl'ito q'd reddat ei quinq' libras sex solidos & oct' denarios Et vrsus Thomam Ryx' de Multon' in Com' prd'co Husbondman' de pl'ito q'd reddat ei tres libras sexdecim solidos & octo denarios Et vrsus Edm' Page de Tyvetteshall in Com' prd'co yoman' de pl'it' q'd reddat ei quinquaginta tres solidos & quatuor denarios Et vrsus Will'm Rixe de Wynfarthyng in Com' prd'co Taylour de pl'it' q'd reddat ei quinquaginta solid' Et vrsus Joh'em Colman' de Tybenham' in Com' prd'co Husbondman' de pl'ito q'd reddat ei quadraginta sex solid' & octo denarios Et vrsus Thomam Sewall de Burston' in Com' prd'co Husbondman' de pl'ito q'd reddat ei quadraginta solidos quos ei debent & iniuste detinent &c' Et ip'i non ven' Et sicut Prius prec' fuit vic' q'd Capet eos &c' Et vic' modo mand' q'd non sunt inuenti &c' I'o sicut plur' Capiantr q'd sint hic in octabis Purificac'ois b'e Marie[1] &c'
Norfolk
John Bonde appeared by his attorney for a fourth day against Richard Rix late of Brundisshe in county Suffolk husbondman, in a plea that he render him £5 6s 8d; and against Thomas Ryx of Multon in the county aforesaid husbondman, in a plea that he render him £3 16s 8d; and against Edmund Page of Tyvetteshall in the county aforesaid yoman, in a plea that he render him 53s 4d; and against William Rixe of Wynfarthyng in the county aforesaid taylour, in a plea that he render him 50s; and against John Colman of Tybenham in the county aforesaid husbondman, in a plea that he render him 46s 8d; and against Thomas Sewall of Burston in the county aforesaid husbondman, in a plea that he render him 40s; which they owe him and unjustly withhold &c. And (the defendants) have not come; and, as before, it had been ordered the sheriff to take them &c. And the sheriff now reports that they are not found &c. Therefore, as many times, let them be taken, to be here on the octaves of Candlemas &c.
[1] 9 February 1548
David Bethell explains that this case lacks the detail that would normally have been given about the alleged trespass, because the justices batted it off to the Norfolk assizes, although sometimes such cases then come back up to the justices at Westminster for final judgment
Source: Public Record Office: CP 40/1177
Title: Common Pleas Hilary 1 Elizabeth
Hilary 1559
Westminster
Pl'ita apud Westmr coram Anthonio Broune et Socijs suis Justic' d'ne Regine D Banco D Termino s'ci Hillarij Anno regni d'ne Elizabeth dei gr'a Anglie Francie & Hib'nie Regine fidei defensoris &c' Primo
Pleas at Westminster before Anthony Broune and his fellows, justices of the lady queen de Banco, for Hilary term in the 1st year of the reign of lady Elizabeth by the grace of God queen of England, France and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c
Norff'
Jur' intr Adam' Harte quer' Et Hugonem Bradshawe nup de Welborne in Com' prd'co yoman' & Jacobum Rixe nup de Estdereham in Com' prd'co yoman' in pl'ito tansgr' ponitr in resp'cm hic vsq' a die Pasche in xv dies Nisi Justic' d'ne Regine ad assi'as in Com' prd'co Capiend' assign' p formam statuti &c' inde puisi die Jouis in quarta septi'ana quadragesime apud Thetford in Com' prd'ci prius venrint p def'cu Jur' quia null' ven' I'o vic' h'eat Corpora &c' Et sciend' est q'd Justic' d'ne Regine hic in Cur' isto eodem trmi'o delib'auerunt deputat' vic' Comitat' prd'ci br'e inde in forma Juris exiquend' &c'
Norfolk
The jury between Adam Harte plaintiff and Hugh Bradshawe late of Welborne in the county aforesaid yoman and James Rixe late of Estdereham in the county aforesaid yoman, in a plea of trespass, is put in respite hence to the quindene of Easter, unless the justices of the lady queen assigned by form of statute &c. therein provided to hold assizes in the county aforesaid shall first come to Thetford in the county aforesaid; for lack of jurors, as none came; therefore the sheriff shall have their bodies &c. And be it known that the justices of the lady queen here in court this same term delivered the writ thereon to the deputy sheriff of the county aforesaid, to execute in form of law.
News members
D. W. Rix of Newhaven East Sussex His ancestors are from Samuel Ricks/Rix of Purton Wiltshire
Gary Strange of Goswell Western Australia. Gary's line is connected to Ricks of Purton
Anna Burgess of Oswestry Shropshire. Also connected to Ricks of Purton
Online enquiries are from:
Janet Morley whose family descend from George Rix of Elsing
Keith J Rix connection to Hanover
Catherine Johnson whose gr grandfather was Benjamin Rix of Prince Edward island
The 2014 Open Day was held on 21st June at the usual venue of Ketts Park in Wymondham. A small group of 16 attended on the day made up of 12 members and 4 guests. Despite the usual publicity in the local Eastern Daily Press, unfortunately no visitors came along to see us, perhaps due to a mixture of fine and warm weather and the World Cup, or was it because of the Racing taking place at Snetterton over the weekend? The main Hall was indeed very quiet for most of the time as members were glued to their laptops and the information on their ancestors.
Brian Rix (member no 345) a cousin of Trevor Rix (no 16) travelled up from Chingford London to spend the day with us and was able to find out information about his family from Marilyn Rix (no 277).
Kathryn Clemence and her daughter Kerry travelled from Ipswich to learn more about the Henry Rix line from Norwich which is part of the Swanton Morley Tree.
The AGM was held in the afternoon with Derek Rix presiding as Chairman and a full report is being prepared to be circulated to all members. A number of interesting ideas were aired and discussed which the Committee have taken away and will report back on. Copies of the Constitution were circulated and members are being asked to review the content and provide comments back to the Committee.
Members agreed to take Derek up on his kind offer and a date for the next Open Day was set for 20th June 2015. Please make a note of this for your diary.
News updated February 2014
NewMembers
Stephen Rix Brundall Norwich. His family descend from Geldeston Norfolk . Stephen is brother of Pauline Wilkinson (member 287)
Brad Rix Moosomin Saskatchewan Canada. Brad's line descends from Nathanial and Thomasine of Diss Norfolk .
Lisa Kershaw Greatworth Banbury Oxon
Online enquiries from
Gary Strange of Australia - his family descend from the Ricks of Purton .
Wendy Taverner whose ancestors are from Acle. Her grandfather was one of 12 children, and ran a couple of businesses along with other relatives in Acle.
MaryAnne Patterson's family emigrated to Wisconsin from Germany. She believes she has a long German family history.
Some time ago Diane Rix-Weitz made contact as she also German ancestry. He grandfather Hans Nikolas Rix was born in Stackendorf, Probstei, Germany in 1870. He was the son of August F J Rix 1839-1910 also from the same place. Her Grandfather emigrated to US in 1889 and settled in Manning. She shared the information with the Rix Alliance as she had come across very few Rix in Midwestern US
Enquiries and new Members
New members
Thaddeus Dabrowski of Amherst USA. His line descends from James Rix b 1657 Salem MA, Jams was the son of Thomas Rix 1620 - 1718 who emigrated from Brancaster Norfolk UK in 1649
Peter Meade Rutherglen Victoria Australia
Eric Wainwright Kempston Bedfordshire
Helen Rix Worrowing Heights NSW Australia. Helen is descended from George and Anne Rix Swanton Morley. The family emigrated to Australia in 19c
Brian Rix Chingford London. Brian is Trevor Rix 's (RFA 16) cousin -Cranworth tree
William Cumming Gateshead Tyne and Wear. William's family descend from East Dereham, Norfolk
Jayne Neale Peterborough Cambridgeshire. Jayne's earliest Rix ancestor is Israel Rix born in Sedgeford 1710
Enquiries have been from:
John Rix of Kansas. His father went to USA in 1952. John's grandfather was John Henry Rix born in Norwich. Gr grandfather Horatio from Norwich and gr gr grandfather Henry Rix also from Norwich.
Tracey, husband Mark Rix, and live in Shropshire UK
Many thanks to Sue for the write up of the Rix Open Day. The website continues to bring interest with enquiries from people around the world.
The Rix Open Day-2013
Saturday 22nd June 2013 was the date for the annual Rix Open Day at Ketts Park, Wymondham in Norfolk. A total of 19 members from across the country came along with their wealth of information on laptops, in files and with Family Trees which they displayed around the Hall. Some members come along each year while others attend less frequently but are nonetheless keen to re-kindle friendships and share more information.
Publicity in the local press with a letter and a specific piece on the Open Day in the Events Supplement was successful and 8 visitors came along to find out all about the Alliance and share their information with us. A warm welcome was given to Keith Rix from Diss, Kathryn and Kerry Clemence from Ipswich, Linda and Richard Habergham from Gt Ellingham and to new members Eric and Ruth Wainwright who travelled from Bedford. Sheelagh Rix had been contacted by a possible Rix family member from Lowestoft who was interested in coming along to the Open Day, however on the day they were unable to make it after all.
The time given by the Rix Alliance members in helping visitors determine where they may fit in to one of the Family Trees, or pointing them in the right direction is invaluable and much appreciated.
During the course of the day, Graham and Joan Sheppard from Newport, members of the Rix Alliance, were delighted to discover they could extend their Family Tree by another cousin.
After lunch the AGM took place with Arthur Rix taking the chair. Mike Rix sent his apologies and it was announced that he has resigned as Chairman of the Alliance. After discussion about the role and what is involved, Derek Rix agreed to take on the Chairman position. The existing committee members of Susie Rix, Sheelagh Rix, Trevor Rix, Marilyn Rix and Sue Simpson all agreed they were happy to continue in their roles.
A discussion took place about the Open Day venue and location for future years as members recognise that Norfolk may not always be easy for people to get to. They did feel however that as many of the Rix's originated from this area the Open Day should continue to be held in Norfolk to attract as many potential family members as possible to come along and see us. The facilities at Kett's Park are ideal for the day, giving plenty of space and no problems with parking.
If anyone is interested in coming along in 2014 and wishes to know more about the area and accommodation facilities then please contact Sheelagh Rix on telephone no 017278 32762 or Sue Simpson via email at: sueanddave.simpson@btinternet.com who will do their best to help.
Following the Open Day an enjoyable evening was had by those members staying over in the area who met up with local members for a pleasant meal at the Railway Tavern in Wymondham.
Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to renew friendships and meet new people with a date being made to return to Wymondham for the next Open Day on Saturday 21st June 2014. Book the date in your diaries!
Derek Rix , the new Chair of the Rix Alliance, is RFA member 322 and lives in Norwich. Derek wrote a little of how he started in his family history research...
I first became interested in my family history in 1973. My grandmother died in 1963 and I remember her around 1960 showing me a typed paper which had been compiled by Charles Rix, a relative, from America who served with the American forces during the second world war. My grandfather died in 1973 and the piece of paper turned up again. I have been compiling the family history off and on since then. It was in the days when you had to go round each church to view the parish records, not like today when you can do it from your armchair. I am related to the Watton Rixes and can trace my family back to 1684, although one has to make a few inspired judgements to do so, but there is certainty back to 1782.
News December 2012
Member of the Guild of One Name Studies 98 & Federation of Family History Societies 85
From Keith -kj..transitions.nz@clear.net.nz
William Sharrock married Sarah Rix on 23 February 1784 at Prestwich).The 1794 and 1797 Trade Directories record William as a Calico-glazier, living at Back Sugar Lane in 1794 and at McDonalds Lane House, Wood Street, Salford in 1797.[x5 Grandparents]
From Maryanne Rix Patterson:MaryannePatterson@comcast.net
I have perused your web-site and it looks like this is about Rix Families in England! My Rix family has its origins in Germany. Do you have any members that also have German roots?
Ian Howard ( 251) is still looking for Walter Burton Rix ( prior 1860)
The Hampshire Advertiser of Saturday, January 21st, 1860 under Poor Law Appointments & Resignations, Eastbourne Union, announces "Mr. Walter B. Rix appointed schoolmaster, in the room of Mr. William Lansdell resigned."
I think it unlikely this is my great-grandfather, Walter Burton Rix - who enlisted as an engineer in the Bombay army just 4 months later in May 1860 (and gave his previous occupation as a clerk) - but since I cannot find him anywhere else between his birth in April 1842 and his enlistment, I do wonder about the identity of this Eastbourne schoolmaster! Can anyone else place him? By the way, in the 1861 census, my Walter Burton Rix appears as a sapper in the Brompton Barracks (Medway) just prior to his embarkation for India - I can't see any other likely Walter (B.) Rix
Does anyone have any more information? Could Walter B Rix and Walter Burton Rix be the same person?
Kerryn posted on the forum: Anyone related to George Rix born 1796, Battersea, Surrey? Married Elizabeth Appleyard in St. Giles, Camberwell, Surrey in 1833, and sometime after came to South Australia. They had 5 children that I know of, all born in the UK. Edward Cecil Rix, Frederick Rix, Betsy Rix, Catherine Rix and Harriet Rix.
Would love to hear from any relatives
News Spring 2012
Although the newsletter/journal is no longer issued, there is, I hope still some news and articles for at least a page which can be accessed on the website by members. So I am, as usual, requesting to everyone to please send in any news/images/family research and I will post on the website within a password protected area so only members can have access.
The website does draw new enquiries and new members. So I have listed some of these here. Not everyone joins the RFA but will happily share what they know about their family.
Nick Rix of Australia family originate from Panxworth
John W. H. Rix
johnrix@everestkc.net
Message: My Dad, Horatio John Rix brought our family to the USA from Norwich, England in 1952.
I do have more of my family info. Working backwards here is what I know:
John W. H. Rix (me) born 27 Feb 1946 in Norwich
Horatio John Rix (my father) born 5 Mar 1914 in Norwich. Died 22 Jan 1985
John Henry Rix (my grandfather) born 27 Oct 1878 in Norwich. Died 10 Dec 1953 in Norwich
Horatio Rix (grt grandfather) born 15 Nov 1843 in Norwich. Died 18 June 1906
Henry Rix (grt grt grandfather) born 1817 in Norwich.
Thanks for your interest in helping me. I wonder if this ties into any Rix family line you are aware of.
Martin Baron
thesiggy_x@hotmail.com
Message: My wife is trying to research on her mothers side. Her mother is Margaret Francis daughter of Efan and Mercedes Rix who is the Son of Lionel Emanual Rix.
Stephen Rix
steve.rixy@sky.com
Message: I would like to be a part of the Rix Clan
Janet Manners
janet.manners@ntlworld.com
Message: My mother is a Rix. Her father was Edward Donald Rix.
Thank you for your speedy reply to my email. I will be retiring early next year and would like to research my mother's family history as one of my
retirement projects. Currently I'm looking at various ways of gathering
information.
My grandfather Edward Donald Rix was born in Luton 2nd April 1903, he died
on 4th August 1975. His parents were Christopher and Alice Rix. Edward
Donald had an older brother Christopher Reginald Rix. At the moment I don't
know if there were any other siblings. I believe there were connections with
the East Coast of England but have yet to start my journey. My mother Jean
Alice was born 6th April 1932 and is still alive. Unfortunately I don't have
many old photographs. I found out too late that my dear grandmother threw
away all her old photographs!!
Anyway I look forward to finding out more details.
Deborah (Ricks) Kenworthy
jojoken_2000@yahoo.com
Message: = My father's nephew has submitted Y-dna to the Family tree dna site and I wish to follow up and try and piece together my families missing relatives.
Paul Rix
pfr33@aol.com
Message: Just curious to origins.
Matthew Rix
1funpartyinvites@gmail.com
Message: Hi there, I am descended from Spencer Rix (born 1842 in Thrandeston). Is it possible to join The Rix Alliance
This year we have three new members:
Matthew Rix 332
Somerset House Whitchurch Road Prees, Shropshire
His family originate from Thrandeston and he connects to members, 278 and 316
Line of descent is: Spencer Rix (1842) -> Hugh Spencer Rix (1881) -> Spencer George Blakely Rix
(1918) ->Philip Blakely Rix (1949) -> Matthew
Jill Flanders (nee Rix) 331
1 Atyes Place Warminster Wiltshire
Her father was Cecil Frederick Rix (jazz musician) who was known as Rex Rix. Jill's grandfather was a watch maker from Battersea.
Susan Rix 333
Brisbane Australia
Gr grandfather - Henry Rix born 1861 Norfolk
Cousins meeting for the first time
My Grandfather was a Rix (Robert Rix Elliott b. 1878,) and it is great to have the Rix Family Alliance to keep us in touch with other Norfolk researchers.
Some years ago, I got in touch with Malcolm Barnes because we found that we shared the same grandfather. This made us half cousins but because of the circumstances of my mother's illegitimate birth our families had never met, indeed had not known of the existence of the two families until well into adulthood.
In fact not until 1992, at that time I was told that Malcolm was the 'family record keeper'. We only wrote once and then through house moving, we lost touch.
In recent years, I made contact through someone else researching another branch of Malcolm's family and we began emailing. It was great to get some verification of the records that I had found, so far. Not so long ago, Malcolm broke the ice by ringing me in Australia and we found lots to chat about.
I was born in England but married an Australian, Greg. We've lived in Australia permanently all our 46 years of marriage, this means that I'm not in the country from which my ancestors came and in spite of the information on the net, it makes research more difficult.
In September 2010 we were heading over for a family reunion, on my paternal side, in Northern Ireland, we planned a short visit to England.
Malcolm and his lovely wife Pamela, immediately asked Greg and me to go and stay with them in Rutland, a very generous offer to 'strangers'.
It is hard to describe how wonderful it was to meet one another. My husband and I were looked after so well, both families found we have a lot in common and Malcolm and I were able to talk about the grandfather that had been a part of my mother's family but a seldom visitor to the home of Malcolm's mother. So funny to think our mother's were half sisters and had never known of each others existence.
This special meeting has given the two of us a bond that is quite strong.
by Margaret Fletcher member 312, Malcolm Barnes member 274
Update on Rixes and Thrandeston from Richard Meredith Member 316
Thomas Henry Reynolds - eldest brother of my g-g-grandfather (maternal side) Edward Bradley Reynolds - joined us into the Rix family by marrying Elizabeth Ann Rix of Thrandeston in 1855.
THR (1830-1930, died in his 99th year) inherited a small brewery and a several local pubs at Burford in the Cotswolds. He took Elizabeth back there to live with him and also her twin sisters Mary Ann (Minnie) Rix and Ann Mary Rix, neither of whom ever married, as I understand it. Elizabeth died in 1920, Minnie in 1917 and Ann in 1936. All were members of the Plymouth Brethren sect and THR was a senior figure in it. There was a brethren assembly room next to their house in Sheep Street, Burford. All four are however presently buried in the Baptistchurchyard at Burford
There were no children that I am aware of.
The Rix sisters came from farming stock at Thrandeston.
My family, the Reynolds, had been familiar with Thrandeston for some time. James Reynolds (1686-1739) a former Recorder for Bury St Edmunds and latterly a judge on the King's bench, lived at Welholme's (today known as Manor House) on the Mellis Road. He was a direct descendant of a branch of the Reynolds that were closely associated, militarily and by marriage, with Oliver Cromwell. Another ancestor, Burrough Reynolds, was an earlier resident.
I have also found a pic (of a plaque in Thrandeston church remembering another Rix who may be of interest.
