The Barham Legacy

A Rich Tapestry of Historical Fiction with Faith Themes: Medieval England to Modern Day

Discover the rich tapestry of historical fiction based on authentic Barham family genealogy, from its origins with the knights of Canterbury Cathedral to its distinguished descendants across Europe and America. This medieval historical fiction explores how one pivotal moment in Canterbury Cathedral changed a family's destiny forever.

Explore Barham Family History

The Barham family history represents a fascinating journey of genealogy fiction from medieval England to the present day, touching on significant historical events including the Thomas Becket murder at Canterbury Cathedral and illustrating the resilience of a lineage that has endured for centuries.

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Complete Reference

Our comprehensive compilation of all Barham family research, including royal connections, genealogical trees, and historical context.

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Family Legacy

The enduring legacy of the Barham family through the centuries, from medieval knights to modern descendants.

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Barham Story

The dramatic narrative of the FitzUrse transformation and the founding of the Barham lineage after Canterbury.

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Key Historical Timeline

1170 AD

The Canterbury Cathedral Incident

Reginald FitzUrse, one of the four knights who murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket, setting in motion the transformation of the family name.

1171-1175 AD

Name Change to de Berham

The FitzUrse family changes their name to de Berham (later Barham) and modifies their coat of arms from a bear to three bears' heads.

1196 AD

Highhaven Estate

Following the Great Flood that devastated Teston, Guy de Peine and Abilene de Berham are granted Highhaven by King Richard I.

1600s

Captain Charles Barham

Charles Barham, gentleman and landowner, establishes prominence in Kent society and further cements the family's status.

1758-1823

Sir Charles Middleton

Later Lord Barham, serves as First Lord of the Admiralty during the Napoleonic Wars, representing a high point of Barham influence.

Notable Family Connections

The Barham family history includes connections to several notable historical figures and families.

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Filmer Connection

The marriage of Katherine Filmer to Robert Barham established a connection to the prominent Filmer baronets of East Sutton.

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Royal Lineage

Through Sibyl of Falaise, niece of King Henry I, the Barham family can trace a connection to the royal houses of Norman England.

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Argall Family

Connections to the Argall family, including Elizabeth Argall (b. 1570), establish ties to early American colonial history.

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📚 Research Discoveries Blog

Explore authentic medieval England genealogy research and the fascinating discoveries behind our historical fiction.

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📖 Interactive Historical Fiction

Experience the full Bound by Blood saga with immersive storytelling based on authentic family history.

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📜 Complete Genealogy Appendix

Detailed genealogy documentation with sources, royal connections, and medieval England historical context.

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