The historical records
Family history research relies on a wide range of historical records, each providing different pieces of information about individuals and families.
The most commonly used records in England and Wales include birth, marriage and death records, census returns, the 1939 Register, and parish records. Together, these sources allow genealogists to identify individuals, trace family connections, and follow generations back through time.
Birth, Marriage and Death Records
Birth, marriage and death records are an important part of genealogical research and provide key reference points for identifying individuals and confirming relationships.
In many cases, identifying when an event was registered is sufficient to move research forward. However, there are occasions where obtaining a full certificate becomes necessary, particularly where additional detail is required to confirm identity or clarify family connections.
Rather than obtaining certificates as a matter of course, it is often more practical to record the relevant reference details, allowing documents to be obtained later if required.
Census Records & the 1939 Register
Census records are among the most valuable sources available to genealogists. In England and Wales, census records were taken every ten years from 1841 to 1921, and they provide detailed snapshots of households at a specific point in time.
These records typically include names, ages, places of birth, occupations, and family relationships, allowing entire households to be identified and tracked across successive decades.
The 1939 Register, compiled at the outbreak of the Second World War, serves a similar purpose. It provides a vital link between more recent generations and earlier census records, often allowing researchers to connect individuals from later generations of a family to their parents, grandparents and occasionally even great-grandparents.
Parish Records
Parish records, including baptisms, marriages, and burials, are essential for tracing family lines further back in time, often into the 17th and 18th centuries.
However, these records can vary in detail and are not always straightforward to interpret. In some cases, limited information or common names can make identification more challenging.
Earlier records may also be written in forms of historical handwriting, such as ‘Secretary Hand’, which can be difficult to read and require careful interpretation.
Other Records
In addition to these core sources, a wide range of other records can contribute to family history research, including:
Military records, such as service records and medal rolls
Probate records and wills
Immigration and emigration records, including passenger lists
Newspaper archives and local historical records
Where families moved overseas, records from countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States may also provide valuable information.
If you are considering a family history project, you are very welcome to get in touch to discuss what may be possible.
