Jane’s quest sparked by suitcase discovery


When Jane Bétrom’s mother died in 1998, she inherited a small travel box filled with old family photos and memorabilia – a gift which sparked a 16-year quest to uncover her family’s hidden history.
Jane has managed to unearth a wealth of history taking her across the globe and seeing her discovering how her family had links to Charlie Chaplin, the Titanic and even royalty.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdJane, who grew up in Littlehampton and Wick but now lives in France, has now opened up her past for all to see in a fascinating exhibition at the Littlehampton Museum, in Church Street.
Speaking about her heir-hunting hobby, the 68-year-old said: “It’s become both a fascination and obsession for me because until I have tracked down all the details it’s a bit like losing a piece in a jigsaw puzzle.
“‘We have got this piece but where will it go?’, I think to myself. I just find myself spending hours and hours researching my family history.”