Divided by continents and oceans, Margaret Slater never thought she would find her extended family in England - let alone imagine they were looking for her all this time.

Margaret Slater, Elizabeth Grove first moved to Elizabeth in 1957 when she was five years old.

“We moved from England to Australia when I was five years old. I was quite small so didn’t know much about my family overseas and unfortunately three years after we moved my father passed away, so we lost connection to that side of the family”. Ms Slater remembers.

Unbeknown to Ms Slater her family from England had been trying to track down the family that moved to Australia all those years ago.

Daina Pocius, Heritage Coordinator describes it as a magical moment when the family were connected again using the information accessible at the Playford History Services.

“I was contacted by a gentleman called Mike in England, he had been searching for Margaret and had not been able to contact her, so he got in touch with the Library and our History Services. I was able to make this connection and let Margaret know a family member has been trying to track her down.” Daina recalls.

Since then, Margaret has been chatting and bonding with her newfound family members.

“It has truly been a great experience; Mike has been able share stories and photos of my father’s past including his military history. Daina has opened a new world for my family and I” Ms Slater reflects.

Daina suggests that if you are thinking of researching your family tree or reuniting with long lost relatives, don’t leave it too late- start today!

This month is the SA History Festival, we will be celebrating with events and programs to get you started with learning about your history and Playford’s Past.

You can learn more and book into events by clicking here.