For nearly two decades, enthusiastic volunteers have been tirelessly caring for two Victorian cemeteries in south-east London, leading them to unexpectedly assist families in locating their long-lost ancestors.
Established in July 2007, the Friends of Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries (FOBLC) currently boasts around 300 active volunteers.
Originally called Deptford and Lewisham Cemeteries, Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries opened their gates in 1858, serving as the final resting place for countless individuals.
Among the volunteers, Phill Barnes-Warden and Mick Martin have met every Tuesday for the past seven years, dedicated to uncovering the stories behind those interred there.
Phill discovered that one of his great-great-grandfathers lies in a nearby common grave, saying, “We are bringing their stories back to life.”
Mick reflects on the importance of their work, stating, “It’s a privilege to serve the memory of the deceased.”
As the Friends’ Great War coordinator for the past 18 years, Mick collaborates with Phill to gather information that allows them to vividly illustrate the lives of those buried in the cemeteries.
Their research has revealed details about poignant moments in the lives of soldiers and information about a detective involved in the Jack the Ripper case.
“I enjoy narrating stories and creating vivid imagery for people, helping them truly understand what I’m talking about,” Mick shares. “If they retain 40% of what I present, I consider it a success.”
Since joining the FOBLC seven years ago, Phill has been passionately reconnecting families to their distant relatives through his meticulous ancestry work. After photographing a grave, he uploads the information to a database he created on Ancestry, as well as other genealogy platforms that are available to the public.
“I began my research seven years back and have continued ever since; Mick regularly scouts for war graves and often discovers remarkable ones,” Phill explains.
Mick emphasizes their commitment to welcoming the community: “We want everyone to know we are here all year long. Walking through in the winter, with the snow, or during the summer is a wonderful experience.”
Phill’s role also involves disseminating information about those interred in the cemeteries via Deceased Online, a national repository of burial and cremation records.
Numerous families, both local and international, have reached out to Phill, expressing gratitude for his efforts in “reuniting” them with relatives they were unaware were interred at the cemeteries.
“At the end of the month, an Australian family is visiting to see a grave I just recently found during my visit here.
“While it’s been on Ancestry for some time, they are thrilled to visit; we’ll guide them to the grave.
“These individuals are not forgotten; the numerous thank-you messages we receive from many people illustrate their lasting impact.”
