As Elizabeth went back through the generations, we learned about her family who ran the Leopard Inn in Smithford St. and of watch case makers who lived and worked in Craven St.  She found a description of one relative, John Yardley, as being a remarkable mechanic and a simple hearted, talented friend.  “He was one who thought little of his own time where the spending of it would be the means of helping others.” It seems the apple hasn’t fallen too far from the tree!

Prior to this, Elizabeth found ancestors who worked in the cloth and weaving industries and discovered that Hilary Clinton is also a direct descendant of Richard Hodierne, Elizabeth’s 4x great grandfather.  We were left to wonder if Hilary herself knows her Coventry connection. 

But perhaps Elizabeth’s most successful ancestor was John Yardley, a clothier who became Mayor of Coventry in 1689/1690, during which time he met William of Orange.   He was linked to many charities and was a churchwarden at St Michael’s and Holy Trinity. He also supported the funding of Bond’s Hospital and Bablake Boys amongst many others. 

When discussing her role as a local historian and volunteer Elizabeth said, “I never envisioned this when I retired, but it has given me a new sense of purpose and is extremely fulfilling in so many ways.”

Coventry’s historical sites are greatly supported by volunteers like Elizabeth who share their time, passion and knowledge of sites including Coventry Cathedral, Charterhouse, the Blitz Museum, the Weaver’s House, the Police Museum and the Watch Museum.