From Harrow Middlesex to a life in Cornwall.
Many branches of Elizabeth's family originated in Cornwall and London, with even earlier gentic roots in Ireland. There are deep roots connected to mining communities, maritime life, and ancient parish churches. Research into these lines has included cemetery preservation, parish records, and historic photography. Elizabeth Blake was the grandmother of the website owner and remains one of the central inspirations behind this genealogical project. Through countless conversations, memories, and stories shared over the years, she passed down a deep appreciation for family history and heritage. Her knowledge of the family’s maternal line sparked a lasting desire to uncover and preserve the wider story of the family’s ancestry across England, Cornwall, and beyond.
Elizabeth Blake was born in Harrow, Middlesex, England, in 1927, the daughter of Sidney Guy Blake and Frances Hilda Barnard. Her early life was shaped by both hardship and resilience. Her father later joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War, while her mother, Frances, worked as a legal clerk before volunteering in medical aid service during the war years. Tragically, Elizabeth’s mother died in 1933 when Elizabeth was only six years old, leaving a profound absence during her childhood. Unable to properly care for her following this loss, her father relinquished responsibility, and Elizabeth was taken in and lovingly raised by her maternal grandparents, William and Elizabeth Barnard. Under their care she found stability, warmth, and a sense of belonging during difficult years. She remained with them until advancing age made it impossible for them to continue caring for her. Elizabeth was then sent to Cornwall to live with the Harris family, beginning a lifelong connection with Cornwall that would define much of her later life. In adulthood, Elizabeth married Ronald Alfred Barley, with whom she had two daughters, Alison and Susan. In 1949, she purchased a plot of land on Liskey Hill in Perranporth, Cornwall, where she built the home that would remain at the heart of family life for decades. The property, known as No. 1 Sommerville Road, Freshfields, became a place of hospitality, laughter, and enduring memories. Over the years, Elizabeth welcomed countless visitors into her home, hosting both paying guests and lifelong friends with equal warmth and generosity. Though the house has since been sold, it remains deeply woven into the memories of those who knew it.
Elizabeth later married George Collins in 1958. George was a founding member of the Cornish Gliding Club, and together they shared a spirit of adventure and travel, journeying throughout Britain, Spain, and beyond. Their marriage was marked by companionship, independence, and a love of exploration. Tragically, George died of a heart attack in 1998 while the two were together at an airport preparing for travel. Elizabeth’s life spanned periods of profound social change, war, personal hardship, and rebuilding. Through it all, she remained resilient, independent, and deeply connected to her family. Her stories, recollections, and strength of character continue to shape this family history project, ensuring that the lives and memories of earlier generations are not forgotten. She passed away peacefully and with full resolve at the age of 97 on 20 November, 2024 in Perranporth, Cornwall.
She was interned and laid to enternal rest in St. Piran's Church, Perranzabuloe on April 23, 2025 on what would have been her 98th birthday.
Elizabeth's ancestry is very intersting. She comes from Cornish and English nobility as well as regular farmers and grocers. Her DNA is almost fully celtic with orgins in Cornwall, Ireland and Midlands England. Connected to Grenvilles of Kirkhampton who date back to William the Conquerer. More to be added.