Bulmer Family Genealogy & History

Joan Bulmer, originally Joan Acworth, was an influential English gentlewoman and courtier during the Tudor era, born in 1519. Known for her association with Katherine Howard, the fifth wife of King Henry VIII, Joan served in the household of Agnes Tilney, the Dowager Duchess of Norfolk. During this time, she became involved in an affair with Edward Waldegrave, whom she later married. Her connection to Katherine Howard led her to request a position in the royal household, although she was eventually called to testify during Katherine's downfall. Joan's life, including her residence at Lawford Hall in Essex and her surviving correspondence with Katherine, paints a vivid picture of court life.

Joan Bulmer was the daughter of George Acworth and Margaret Wilberforce. Her marriage to William Bulmer ended when she left his home to serve the Dowager Duchess of Norfolk. This family lineage positioned her within the English gentry, influencing her path and connections at court.

Tahita Rotardier Bulmer, born on April 29, 1981, is an acclaimed English singer known for her role as the lead vocalist of the electropop band NYPC (New Young Pony Club). Bulmer's music career highlights include her contributions to Alphawave and Blue States, where she showcased her talent on the 2002 album "Man Mountain," notably co-writing the track "Season Song" featured in the film "28 Days Later." Her collaboration with Andy Spence led to the formation of NYPC in 2005, with their breakout track "Ice Cream" and debut album "Fantastic Playroom" released under Island Records in 2007. Bulmer is also recognized for her support of animal rights and her vegetarian lifestyle.

Tahita Bulmer is the daughter of Rowan Bulmer, a notable figure among the Richmond "Faces," and Valewska Rotardier, who was of Trinidadian descent. Her mixed heritage reflects her mother’s Trinidadian background and her father’s English roots. Born in the City of Westminster, London, Tahita experienced a diverse upbringing across New York, London, and Cairo, significantly influenced by her family’s artistic and multicultural background.

Henry Kenneth Bulmer (1921–2005) was a prolific British writer renowned for his science fiction works, authoring over 160 novels and numerous short stories. His famous Dray Prescot series was published under the pseudonym Alan Burt Akers. Bulmer's works have found significant popularity in translation, especially in Germany. He contributed to British comics, creating characters like The Steel Claw, and was active in science fiction fandom, travelling as the TransAtlantic Fan Fund delegate. Bulmer edited nine issues of the New Writings in Science Fiction anthology series.

Sir Bevis Bulmer (1536–1615) was a prominent English mining engineer renowned for his speculative ventures during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. He was instrumental in founding lead and calamine mines in the Mendip Hills and played a significant role in the smelting operations at Dartford. Bulmer's expertise in mining and engineering led to a successful partnership with Adrian Gilbert, yielding substantial profits from the Fayes Mine. His contributions to mining technology and operations were notable, making him a key figure in the history of mining in England.

Bevis Bulmer's family origins are intriguing, with sources suggesting he was the son of Sir John Bulmer and Margaret Stafford. His parents were involved in the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion and were executed for high treason in 1537. His grandfather was Sir William Bulmer, linking Bevis to a lineage with significant historical ties, although it had a tragic end due to their political involvement.