From Little Acorns Great Oaks Grow: The Pillinger Family of Kingswood

In 2013 I visited the UK and travelled the West Country following in the footsteps of my ancestors. On the Summer Solstice I visited Avebury where my 3 x great grandmother was born in 1781. I went into the church at Avebury and it seemed more like market day in there. They were selling cream teas and there was also an art exhibition. The two artists Ian Pillinger and his wife June were there and I asked June if they had any connection to the Pillinger family of Brislington, Bristol. She then introduced me to her husband who was quite enthusiastic about our relationship. Ian told me that Colin Pillinger, who is a former planetary scientist at the Open University in the UK, is also a relative. He gave me his card and said to keep in touch. I’m afraid I did not keep in touch as life, as it tends to do, got in the way! I understand Colin has since passed away. So, having been born in Bristol but living in Australia since 1970, I return to England and in Avebury I meet my Pillinger relatives.
Hugh Pillinger and his wife Mary Palmer were my 9 x great grandparents.
Best Wishes
Mary Crane, nee Withers
Geelong, Victoria