About Me

Writing the Past is run by Michael Sharpe, a family history researcher, writer and lecturer with thirty years experience. I offer a variety of services for family historians from genealogical research, to writing up your family story, and the development of specialist family history websites.

Prior to becoming a professional researcher, I spent twenty years as a writer, editor and project manager working on high-quality scientific and business publications and new media products. I also have solid IT experience gained through content-rich databases and websites. In Writing the Past, I bring these skills to the family history world, aiming to help people further their genealogical research and also preserve it for the future through eye-catching publications and websites.

I have been active in the family history field since 1984, when census returns were on microfilm and a notebook and pen were the only technology the genealogist needed. I am a member of the Association of Genealogists & Researchers in Archives (AGRA) and the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG), as well as the Society of Genealogists, Midland Ancestors (formerly the Birmingham & Midland Society for Genealogy & Heraldry) and several other family and local history societies. I have also written two books on British genealogy, as well as various magazine and website articles (see my Publications & Talks).

My own roots are in Birmingham, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Leicestershire, with some lines having been traced back to the early 1500s. Research has led to other branches in London, Yorkshire, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, and knowledge of the associated records. I’ve also made contact with many distant relatives.

I’m passionate about family history and love helping people uncover the untold stories about their ancestors’ lives. In working with clients, I believe in openness and collaboration as the best way to ensure a successful outcome. I look forward to our journey together.

Member of the Association of Professional Genealogists

Member of the Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives