Foundations

       Roots are a foundation to all trees that help them stand against the many winds that blow across their paths. Likewise, ancestors are the roots of the many generations that helped the family trees survive the winds {some might say hurricanes} of time. For my own Jones surname family tree, these roots begin as geographic locations. As discussed in the last post, these roots were described by labels attached to the names of those identified. [Listed as the second generation (JB)] These labels are shown again in a somewhat different light since understanding the geographic locations are paramount to finding and clarifying many of my Jones surname ancestors. 

      Both Maelors are shown outlined in red. Note that the river Dee (colored blue) divides these locations down the middle with the NW side labeled Welsh and, the SE side tagged English. Also, remember in the last post, Offa's dyke runs north to south forming a distinct boarder between the Welsh and the Saxons. Due south the locations of Whittington and Oswestry are shown in relationship to Maelor. Both locations are east of Offa's dyke which would place them under Saxon influence.  How much more complicated can one get? 

      Now for the big, big, picture...drum roll please...

      This figure reminds everyone the real Celtic roots that Ynyr(JB-1) is given his name. Place the first drawing over the second and, the two Celtic tribes that occupied the Maelors, Whittington and Oswestry are the Deceangli (Welsh Maelor) and the Cornovii (English Maelor). What a deal!