People & Families
Family histories and biographical information
My people and families archive contains information on 156 families and individuals who lived in Bishopdale over the centuries. Through parish registers, census records, personal memories, and photographs, I piece together the stories of the people who made this community what it is today.
Family Research
Trace your family history using our parish registers, census records, and personal collections.
Individual Biographies
Detailed profiles of notable individuals who shaped life in Bishopdale.
Family Stories
Personal memories and anecdotes passed down through generations.
Genealogy Resources
Access our guides and resources for researching your Bishopdale ancestry.
Featured Families
The Metcalfe Family
One of the oldest families in Bishopdale, the Metcalfes have been farming in Thoralby for over 350 years. Multiple branches of the family have remained in the area, maintaining strong connections to the land.
Notable Family Members:
- John Metcalfe (1702-1780)Prominent farmer and churchwarden
- Mary Metcalfe (1845-1920)Local schoolteacher
- Thomas Metcalfe (1890-1975)Last traditional hand scyther
Family Connections:
- Related to the Alderson family
- Intermarried with Harkers of West Burton
The Alderson Family
The Alderson family combined upland farming with lead mining work during the 18th and 19th centuries. Known for their hardworking nature and strong Methodist faith.
Notable Family Members:
- William Alderson (1780-1855)Lead miner and lay preacher
- Elizabeth Alderson (1820-1895)Noted for her hand-knitting skills
- Robert Alderson (1865-1940)Last of the family to work in lead mines
Family Connections:
- Related to Metcalfes
- Connected to Fawcett family of Hawes
The Harker Family
An extensive family with branches throughout Wensleydale. The West Burton Harkers were particularly associated with the village green and several family members served as parish officials.
Notable Family Members:
- Thomas Harker (1750-1825)Stonemason who worked on local buildings
- Ann Harker (1800-1878)Ran village shop for 50 years
- James Harker (1880-1960)Chronicled local customs and traditions
Family Connections:
- Intermarried with Metcalfes
- Related to Pratt family
The Pratt Family
For three generations, the Pratts ran the blacksmith's forge in Thoralby, essential for shoeing horses, making and repairing farm implements, and general ironwork.
Notable Family Members:
- George Pratt (1770-1845)Founded the forge
- John Pratt (1805-1880)Renowned for quality of his work
- William Pratt (1850-1925)Last blacksmith before forge closure
Family Connections:
- Married into Harker family
- Apprenticed several local boys
The Lodge Family
Farming family known for their sheep breeding expertise. The Lodges maintained detailed records of their flock and were early adopters of agricultural improvements.
Notable Family Members:
- Matthew Lodge (1820-1895)Pioneered Swaledale sheep breeding
- Sarah Lodge (1860-1940)Active in local women's institute
- Henry Lodge (1895-1980)Wrote about traditional farming methods
Family Connections:
- Connected to Yorkshire Agricultural Society
- Related to Closes of Askrigg