My research into my family tree really began in earnest when I came across a photograph of a family grave whilst my parents were moving house in 1995. After some investigation I ascertained the grave was that of my great great grandfather, and several other ancestors, buried at St Peter's Church, Harborne, Birmingham. The grave still exists, although it's condition leaves something to be desired.

Further research into the parish records for St Peters and the International Genealogical Index seem to suggest that the family were based in Harborne for several generations. It is unusual to come across so many references to the surname spelt with just the one 't' at the end. Even many of the references in the IGI which state 'Pritchett' turn out to relate to 'Pritchet' when the source document is inspected.

I have not proved all the links yet, and there are several issues I wish to follow up, for example:

  The name 'Pritchet' is unusually spelt, and so far whenever I have encountered it there has been a 'link'. I would like to contact all living Pritchets to see if this continues to hold true.

  There is a 'Pritchet Street' in Birmingham. What is the origin of this and is there any connection?

  What is the history of 'The Limes, Albert Road, Harborne, where Joseph lived?

  In his obituary Joseph was described as 'very prominently identified with the public life of Harborne', but I have so far found no other references. This must be worth following up.

  So far I have got back to around 1675, when parish records seem to cease. How do I get back earlier than this?