Living Descendants of John Bunyan Revealed in Historic Elstow Ceremony

An updated edition of the John Bunyan Family Tree — now including living descendants of the world-renowned author — has been unveiled.

Best known as the author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, the bestselling single-authored book in the world, John Bunyan remains one of Bedford’s most celebrated historical figures. This latest edition of his family tree brings together newly discovered branches of his lineage, with researchers confirming a connection between Bunyan’s daughter Sarah and her husband William Brown through parish records — linking the famed preacher directly to the present-day Brown family.

Copies of the updated family tree were formally presented to members of the living Brown descendants during a special ceremony, marking a significant moment in local and literary history.

The project was a collaboration between volunteer Clive Arnold, John Bunyan Museum Curator Nicola Sherhod, and Bunyan400 Festival organiser Janet Wootton, with design support from Bedford Borough Council’s reprographics department.

Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said:

“This is a remarkable celebration of Bedford’s rich literary and community heritage. Unveiling the living descendants of John Bunyan not only deepens our connection to his legacy but also highlights the importance of preserving local history for generations to come.”

The unveiling forms part of wider preparations for the Bunyan400 Festival, commemorating four centuries since Bunyan’s birth — an event that continues to unite scholars, residents, and descendants in celebrating the enduring influence of one of Bedford’s most famous sons.