Durham Probate Records: Difference between revisions

From FamilySearch Wiki
VisualWikitext
(added parish table)
 
(124 intermediate revisions by 26 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
For an explanation of probate records in England, click [[England Probate Records|here]].
{{Durham-sidebar}}{{breadcrumb
| link1=[[England Genealogy|England]]
| link2=[[Durham, England Genealogy|Durham]]
| link3=
| link4=
| link5=[[Durham_Probate_Records|Probate Records]]
}}
== Getting Started  ==


{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="95%" align="center" border="1"
''Probate'' is the legal court process by which the estate of a deceased person is distributed to his or her heirs. Probate records include [[W genealogical glossary terms|wills]] and [[A genealogical glossary terms|administrations]]. This article is about probate records in Durham. See [[England Probate Records]] for a general description of probate records in England.
|-
! style="background: #ffdead" width="15%" | PARISH
! style="background: #ffdead" width="40%" | PRIMARY COURT
! style="background: #ffdead" width="40%" | SECONDARY COURTS - IN SEARCH ORDER
|-
| Auckland St Andrew
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
|  
2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York


3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
=== 1858 to the Present  ===


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
Beginning in 1858, the [[Principal Probate Registry|Principal Probate Registry]] had the authority for probating estates. Click on the link to learn more.


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
==== Online Records ====


|-
* '''1858-1957''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/2451051 England and Wales, National Index of Wills and Administrations, 1858-1957] at FamilySearch - [[England and Wales, National Index of Wills and Administrations - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
| Auckland St Anne
* '''1858-1995''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/1904 England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1858-1995] at Ancestry($); index
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)  
* '''1858-2019''' [https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/england-and-wales-government-probate-death-index-1858-2019 England & Wales Government Probate Death Index 1858-2019] at Findmypast($); index
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
=== Before 1858  ===


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
Before 1858, Church of England ecclesiastical courts had authority for this process. To search for a pre-1858 probate record in Durham, follow these steps:


|-
==== Step 1. Search Indexes  ====
| Auckland St Helen
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
Here are some online indexes to probate records that include individuals who lived in Durham. Search these indexes first:


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
*[http://familyrecords.dur.ac.uk/nei/ Durham and Northumberland probate records, 1527-1857]. Index is wonderful!
**[http://familyrecords.dur.ac.uk/nei/data/intro.php North East Inheritance database (pre-1858 Durham Probate Records)]. To learn more about the project and search the index.
*[https://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/C12122 Prerogative Court of Canterbury Wills 1383-1858]
*{{FSC|1928667|item|disp=Sunderland Wills and Invetories Transcribed 1601-1650 with 90 probate records}}


|-
<br>Did you find a reference to a probate record?
| Aycliffe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
*If ''yes'', go to '''Step 4''' below.
*If ''no'', go to '''Step 2''' below.


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
==== Step 2. Identify when and where your ancestor died  ====


|-
Determine ''when'' your ancestor died. If you aren't sure, use an approximate date. 
| Barnard Castle
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
Determine ''where'' your ancestor died. It is easier to find a probate record if you know whether the place where your ancestor lived or died is a [[P genealogical glossary terms|parish]]. To learn whether it is a parish, look it up in a gazetteer. Here is a link to the 1872 ''Imperial Gazetteer of England and Wales'' online:


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
*[https://www.visionofbritain.org.uk/ Vision of Britain]


|-
The gazetteer will either tell you:
| Belmont
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
*A place is a parish, or
*What parish it is a part of, or
*What place it is near.


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
If the latter, look that place up in the gazetteer and see if it is a parish.


|-
Once you have identified the parish, go to '''Step 3'''.
| Benfieldside
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
==== Step 3. Identify court jurisdictions by parish  ====


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
Once you have identified the parish where your ancestor lived or died, learn which courts had jurisdiction over it then search indexes for those courts. Every town and parish in Durham fell under the probate jurisdiction of a primary court and several secondary courts. Click on a link below for the letter the parish begins with.


|-
<br>The whole of the county of Durham was under the primary jurisdiction of the [[Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)|Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)]]. This court should be searched first when looking for the probate of a deceased person who lived or owned property in Durham. Additional courts listed below also had jurisdiction over Durham. If you do not find a probate in the Court of the Bishop of Durham, search those additional courts.<br>
| Billingham
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)  
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
==== Step 4. Obtain a copy of the probate record  ====


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
Once you have found an index reference to a probate, obtain a copy of the record. Do so by one of these methods:


|-
*{{FSC|372968|subject_id|disp=Durham England Probate Records}}(*) at FamilySearch Catalog - some images may only be available at a [https://www.familysearch.org/centers/locations/ FamilySearch Center or FamilySearch Affiliate Library.]<br>
| Birtley
*Visit or contact the record office that has the original records in its collection.
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)  
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
== Durham Probate Courts  ==


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
The following court had jurisdiction over county Durham before 1858.


|-
*[[Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)]]<br>
| Bishop Middleham
*[[Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York]]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)  
*[[Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York]]
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York  
*[[Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York]]
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York  
*[[Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury]]


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
== Durham Probate Collections ==
The following collections contain various records relating to probate from County Durham.
*[[England, Durham Diocese, Allertonshire Peculiar Administration Bonds and Inventories - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham Diocese, Allertonshire Peculiar Stray Probate Bonds - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham Diocese, Probate Inventories - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham Diocese, Registered Wills - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham Diocese, Renunciations - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham Probate Bonds - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham, Dean and Chapter of Durham's Allerton and Allertonshire Original Wills, Inventories and Bonds - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham, Diocese of Durham Original Wills - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[England, Durham, Probate Commissions, Monitions and Citations - FamilySearch Historical Records]]


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
== Some Explanatory Notes on the Courts of Durham  ==


|-
The earliest original wills for Durham date from 1540, but there are some registered copy wills for 1526-1534. There are earlier records filed with the superior courts, some dating back to 1311, in the bishop's general serices of act books. There are gaps in the records for early periods; others in poor condition.
| Bishopton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
Inventories were prevalent from the earliest period through th efirst quarter of the 18th century. They may be filed with the administration bonds as well as with the original wills. Registered copies are usually indexed and arranged chronologically. Page numbers appear in the upper right corner and testators' names are frequently written in the margins. There may be an inventory written at the end of the copy will and almost always there will be a probate act in Latin indicating when the will was proven.<br>


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
== Other On-line Information ==
*[https://www.dur.ac.uk/library/asc/ Durham University Special Collection] Durham Probate Records


|-
| Bishopwearmouth [St Michael and All Angels]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York


4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
{{Place|Durham|Probate Records}}
{{England Probate Records}}


5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
{{Template:Pros-NEE}}


|-
[[Category:Durham Probate Records|Probate]]
| Bishopwearmouth St Thomas
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Boldon
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Brancepeth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Byers Green
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Carlton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Castle Eden
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Chester le Street
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Cockfield
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Collierley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Coniscliffe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Coundon
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Crook
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Croxdale
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Dalton le Dale
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Darlington [St Cuthbert]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Darlington Holy Trinity
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Darlington St John
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Denton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Deptford St Andrew
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Dinsdale
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham Castle and Precincts
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Durham Cathedral
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham College
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Durham Magdalen Place
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Durham St Giles
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham St Margaret
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham St Mary le Bow with St Mary the Less
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham St Nicholas
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Durham St Oswald
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Easington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Ebchester
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Edmondbyers
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Egglescliffe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Eggleston
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Elton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Elwick Hall
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Embleton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Eppleton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Escomb
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Esh
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Etherley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Ferryhill
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Gainford
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Garmondsway Moor
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Gateshead [St Mary]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Gateshead Fell [St John]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Greatham
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Grindon
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hamsterley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hart
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hartlepool [St Hilda]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Haughton le Skerne
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Heatherycleugh
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Heighington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hetton le Hole
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Heworth [St Mary]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Heworth St Alban
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Houghton le Spring
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hunstanworth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hunwick
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Hurworth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Ingleton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Jarrow
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Kelloe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Lamesley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Lanchester
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Lynesack
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Medomsley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Merrington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Middleton in Teesdale
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Middleton St George
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Monk Hesleden
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Monkwearmouth [St Peter]
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Monkwearmouth All Saints
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Muggleswick
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Newton, Long
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Norton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Pelton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Penshaw
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Pittington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Rainton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Redmarshall
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Ryhope
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Ryton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Satley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Seaham
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Seaham Harbour
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Seaton Carew
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Sedgefield
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Shadforth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Sherburn House
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Shields, South [St Hilda]  
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Shields, South Holy Trinity
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Shields, South St Stephen
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Shildon
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Shincliffe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Sockburn
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Southwick
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Staindrop
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stainton, Great
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stanhope
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stella
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stillington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stockton upon Tees [St Thomas]  
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stockton upon Tees Holy Trinity
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Stranton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Sunderland
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Sunderland St John
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Tanfield
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Thornley
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Thornley St Bartholomew
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Trimdon
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Usworth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Washington
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Weardale St John
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Westoe
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Whickham
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Whitburn
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Whitwell House
| Search the courts of the surrounding parishes
| .
|-
| Whitworth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Whorlton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Wingate Grange
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Winlaton
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Winston
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Witton Gilbert with Kimblesworth
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Witton le Wear
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Wolsingham
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|-
| Wolviston
| Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory)
| 2 - Exchequer and Prerogative Courts of the Archbishop of York
3 - Court of the Peculiar of the Dean and Chapter of York
 
4 - Chancery Court of the Archbishop of York
 
5 - Prerogative Court of the Archbishop of Canterbury
 
|}

Latest revision as of 10:53, 21 May 2024

Durham Wiki Topics
File:Durham_Flag.png
Beginning Research
Record Types
Durham Background
Local Research Resources

Getting Started[edit | edit source]

Probate is the legal court process by which the estate of a deceased person is distributed to his or her heirs. Probate records include wills and administrations. This article is about probate records in Durham. See England Probate Records for a general description of probate records in England.

1858 to the Present[edit | edit source]

Beginning in 1858, the Principal Probate Registry had the authority for probating estates. Click on the link to learn more.

Online Records[edit | edit source]

Before 1858[edit | edit source]

Before 1858, Church of England ecclesiastical courts had authority for this process. To search for a pre-1858 probate record in Durham, follow these steps:

Step 1. Search Indexes[edit | edit source]

Here are some online indexes to probate records that include individuals who lived in Durham. Search these indexes first:


Did you find a reference to a probate record?

  • If yes, go to Step 4 below.
  • If no, go to Step 2 below.

Step 2. Identify when and where your ancestor died[edit | edit source]

Determine when your ancestor died. If you aren't sure, use an approximate date.

Determine where your ancestor died. It is easier to find a probate record if you know whether the place where your ancestor lived or died is a parish. To learn whether it is a parish, look it up in a gazetteer. Here is a link to the 1872 Imperial Gazetteer of England and Wales online:

The gazetteer will either tell you:

  • A place is a parish, or
  • What parish it is a part of, or
  • What place it is near.

If the latter, look that place up in the gazetteer and see if it is a parish.

Once you have identified the parish, go to Step 3.

Step 3. Identify court jurisdictions by parish[edit | edit source]

Once you have identified the parish where your ancestor lived or died, learn which courts had jurisdiction over it then search indexes for those courts. Every town and parish in Durham fell under the probate jurisdiction of a primary court and several secondary courts. Click on a link below for the letter the parish begins with.


The whole of the county of Durham was under the primary jurisdiction of the Court of the Bishop of Durham (Episcopal Consistory). This court should be searched first when looking for the probate of a deceased person who lived or owned property in Durham. Additional courts listed below also had jurisdiction over Durham. If you do not find a probate in the Court of the Bishop of Durham, search those additional courts.

Step 4. Obtain a copy of the probate record[edit | edit source]

Once you have found an index reference to a probate, obtain a copy of the record. Do so by one of these methods:

Durham Probate Courts[edit | edit source]

The following court had jurisdiction over county Durham before 1858.

Durham Probate Collections[edit | edit source]

The following collections contain various records relating to probate from County Durham.

Some Explanatory Notes on the Courts of Durham[edit | edit source]

The earliest original wills for Durham date from 1540, but there are some registered copy wills for 1526-1534. There are earlier records filed with the superior courts, some dating back to 1311, in the bishop's general serices of act books. There are gaps in the records for early periods; others in poor condition.

Inventories were prevalent from the earliest period through th efirst quarter of the 18th century. They may be filed with the administration bonds as well as with the original wills. Registered copies are usually indexed and arranged chronologically. Page numbers appear in the upper right corner and testators' names are frequently written in the margins. There may be an inventory written at the end of the copy will and almost always there will be a probate act in Latin indicating when the will was proven.

Other On-line Information[edit | edit source]


v • d• e
Links to Durham-related articles


v • d• e
England Probate Records by county
Help-content.png FamilySearch England Research Forum Help-content.png

To access available information, first log into FamilySearch.

This website requires a paid subscription for full access. Some subscription websites are available for free at your local FamilySearch Center or Affiliate Library.

Due to contractual agreements, some images and/or databases on FamilySearch.org may only be viewed at a FamilySearch Center or FamilySearch Affiliate Library.

Retrieved from "https://integration-ru.familysearch.org/en/wiki/index.php?title=Durham_Probate_Records&oldid=5748476"