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England Census: Difference between revisions

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[[England]] [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]] [[England Census: Further Information and Description|Census Further Information]][[Image:Gotoarrow.png]] [[England Census Records and Indexes Online|Census Records Online]]  
{{CountrySidebar
 
|Country=England
[[Image:Census of the Population 1871 (England and Wales).png|thumb|right|300px|Census of the Population 1871 (England and Wales).png]]  
|Name=England
 
|Type=Topic
__TOC__
|Topic Type=Records
 
|Records=Census
== Introduction ==
|Rating=Standardized
}}{{breadcrumb
| link1=[[England Genealogy|England]]
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| link5=[[England Census|Census]]
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==Introduction to England and Wales Census==
{{Historical populations
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A census is a statistical count of the population of a country taken for the purpose of accurate government representation, tax collection and military purposes. The first complete census in England was conducted in 1086 under William the Conqueror who was the first Norman King of England. As the new king, he wanted an accounting of land owners who held lands belonging to the crown along with the number of owned livestock. A detailed history of this survey is available online from [http://www.history-magazine.com/domesday.html ''History Magazine''] which was published in October/November 2001.
The census is a head count of everyone in the country on a given day. A census has been taken in England and Wales, and separately for Scotland, every ten years since 1801, with the exception of 1941.
<ref>[https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/help-with-your-research/research-guides/census-records/ National Archives Census Records ] ''How to look for records of...Census records.'' Date Accessed: 27 December 2021.</ref><br><br>
A well-indexed census is one of the '''easiest ways to locate where an ancestor lived''' and when they lived there. You can also use censuses to:
<li>Follow the family over time</li>
<li>Determine family relationships</li>
<li>Find clues to other locations where the family lived</li>


In England, the government census have taken place every ten years since 1801, however, these earlier censuses were taken strictly for statistical purposes by the Overseers of the Poor and the clergy.  
==England and Wales Censuses with Online Links==
{| class="wikitable" width= "75%" style="display: inline-table;"
|-
! style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"| 1801-1831<br>(Incomplete)*
! style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"| 1841
! style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"| 1851
! style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"| 1861
! style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"| 1871
|-
|[https://1841census.co.uk/pre-1841-census-information/ National Archives]*<br>[https://www.findmypast.co.uk/search/historical-records?region=england&start_year=1801&end_year=1831&keywords=census&page=1&order_direction=desc&order_by=relevance Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1493745|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/8978/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1841-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|2563939|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/8860/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1851-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1493747|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/8767/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1861-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1538354|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/7619/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1871-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|-
!style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"|1881
!style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"|1891
!style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"|1901
!style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"|1911
!style="background:#cccccc; scope:col; width:5.5%"|1921
|-
|{{RecordSearch|2562194|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/7572/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1881-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1865747|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/6598/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1891-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1888129|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/7814/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1901-england-wales-and-scotland-census Findmypast]($)
|{{RecordSearch|1921547|FamilySearch}}<br> [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/2352/ Ancestry.com]($)<br>[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/1911-census-for-england-and-wales Findmypast]($)
|[https://www.findmypast.com/1921-census Findmypast]($)
|-
|}
<nowiki>*</nowiki>1801-1831 detailed information on incomplete records
===== Additional Online Links=====
*'''1851''' [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=7918 1851 United Kingdom Census Sample] ($), index and images.
*[https://www.thegenealogist.com/census/ The Genealogist Parish Registers - Derbyshire]($)
*[https://www.freecen.org.uk/ FreeCEN]($)
*[https://www.myheritage.com/research/category-1200/uk-ireland-census MyHeritage]($)


The first census listing people by name was taken in 1841 with the census traditionally being taken every ten years since then except for 1941 (due to WW II) along with the fact that the 1931 census was destroyed during WW II. Census records are generally released 100 years after they are taken. Because of this situation with 1931 and 1941 census records there will be a thirty year gap. These records are one of the best ways to locate ancestors at a given place and time.


Although the 1841 census is of great value, it had some limitations. It was originally produced on blue paper and inscribed with pencil. Many of the original images on film were very poor but the digital quality has improved them. In the 1841 census, relationships were not given, the age of individuals older than 15 years was rounded down, and specific birthplaces were not provided. The 1851 census and subsequent censuses provide more detailed information, making it easier to find family members.  
==Census Forms and Headings==
The links below show the form layouts and the column headings on each census form. The headings listed the questions asked on each census (in PDF format). Also, Guy Etchells has assembled a collection of [http://freepages.history.rootsweb.com/~framland/census/directions.htm the official instructions given to enumerators for each census].


The percentages shown in the chart to the right are the percentage of increase in population since the previous census year.
{|
|-
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:30px; width:100%"|
<li> [https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1841.pdf 1841 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li> [https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1851.pdf 1851 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li>[[Media:1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]</li>
  <li> [https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1841.pdf 1841 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li> [https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1851.pdf 1851 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li>[[Media:1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]</li>
  <li>[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1861.pdf 1861 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li>[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1871.pdf 1871 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li> [[Media:1861 and 1871 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1861 and 1871 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]</li>
  <li>[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1881.pdf 1881 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li>[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1891.pdf 1891 Census Form] (PDF)</li>
  <li> [[Media:1881 and 1891 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1881 and 1891 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]</li>
  <li> [https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1901.pdf 1901 Census Form] (PDF)
  <li>[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1911.pdf 1911 Census Form] (PDF)
  <li> [[Media:1901 and 1911 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1901 and 1911 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]</li>
</ul>
|}


{{further|England Census: Further Information and Description{{!}}Further Information and Description|Lost or Missing England Census Records}}
==Understanding the Censuses 1841-1921==
In England, the government censuses have been taken every ten years since 1801. The first four censuses, 1801 through 1831, were taken strictly for statistical purposes for the Overseers of the Poor and substantial households.<ref>University of Essex [https://www1.essex.ac.uk/history/documents/research/RT2_Wall_2012.pdf PDF on the University of Essex's server] ''Census schedules and listings, 1801–1831:an introduction and guide'' pg.4 Date Accessed: 27 December 2021.</ref><br>
The first census listing people by name was taken in 1841.<br> Census records are generally released 100 years after they were taken.<br><br>
These links give detailed information on the England and Wales censuses.<br>
*[http://www.thepotteries.org/education/census.htm Census returns for England & Wales]
*[http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/Census.html GENUKI England and Wales:- Census]
*[[England Census: Further Information and Description]]<br><br>
'''How the Censuses were Taken'''<br><br>
Census details changed little year to year. Each census used a pre-printed form and were taken on specific dates. The enumeration districts were small enough for an enumerator to complete his work in one day. To avoid double counting, the pre-printed form was handed by the enumerator to the head of household with the instructions to only record those physically located at the home on census night. Therefore those away at boarding schools, working at night, on vacation, etc. were not enumerated. Conversely, relatives, boarders, servants, etc. were enumerated. The pre-printed forms were collected soon after the census date. From 1841-1901 the enumerator copied the household information onto a master form. In 1911 the original forms were kept, with each household having its own form. <br>


== Understanding the Census  ==
The dates of each census were as follows:
 
[[Image:Brompton5.jpg|thumb|right|259x327px|Brompton5.jpg]]
 
Instructions to the census taker were to list only those persons who spent the night in each household when the census was taken. Those traveling, staying at boarding schools, or working away from home were listed where they spent the night. For example, night watchmen are often listed under their employer’s business address rather than with their families. Guy Etchells has assembled a collection of [http://freepages.history.rootsweb.com/~framland/census/directions.htm the official instructions given to enumerators for each census].
 
Be aware of the date of each census for family members as that will help in determining the birth year for family members as it is reported. The date that each census was taken is as follows:  


{| class="FCK__ShowTableBorders" cellpadding="3"
{| class="FCK__ShowTableBorders" cellpadding="3"
|-
|-
| '''1841''' – June 6  
|'''1841''' – June 6
| '''1881''' – April 3
|'''1881''' – April 3
|-
|'''1851''' – March 30
|'''1891''' – April 5
|-
|-
| '''1851''' – March 30
|'''1861''' – April 7
| '''1891''' – April 5
|'''1901''' – March 31
|-
|-
| '''1861''' – April 7
|'''1871''' – April 2
| '''1901''' – March 31
|'''1911''' – April 2
|-
|-
| '''1871''' – April 2
|
| '''1911''' – April 2
|'''1921''' - June 19
|}
|}


The following information can be found in the censuses:
===Pre-1841 Census===
 
==== Pre-1841 Census ====


There are only a few name lists created on the parish level for the census years 1801, 1811, 1821, 1831. The few surviving pre-1841 censuses generally contain only names of the head-of-household. Consult an archive in your county to determine what may be available or information on pre-1841 census records can be found in:
There are 791 surviving census listings for 1801-1831 created on the parish level.<ref>Wall, Richard, Matthew Woollard, and Beatrice Moring. ''Census schedules and listings, 1801-1831: an introduction and guide''. Colchester: Dept. of History, University of Essex. 2004.</ref> The few surviving pre-1841 censuses generally contain only names of the head-of-household.  


*The University of Essex, Department of History published an easy to follow PDF file in 2004 entitled "Census Schedules and Listings, 1801-1831: An Introduction and Guide" by Richard Wall, Matthew Woollard and Beatrice Moring. This is now available at two websites: (1) [http://www.essex.ac.uk/history/documents/research/RT2_Wall_2012.pdf The University of Essex], from which it can be readily downloaded; and (2) [http://www.academia.edu/619532/Census_Schedules_and_Listings_1801-1831_An_Introduction_and_Guide Academia], from which it can be downloaded by those who first sign up to enrol in Academia. The 151-page guide includes a county-by-county catalogue of the surviving name lists that have been found for the English censuses from 1801-1831, including '''all''' those listed in the following work by Chapman. 
*The University of Essex, Department of History published an easy to follow PDF file in 2004 entitled [https://www1.essex.ac.uk/history/documents/research/RT2_Wall_2012.pdf ''Census Schedules and Listings, 1801-1831: An Introduction and Guide'' by Richard Wall, Matthew Woollard and Beatrice Moring],  
*Chapman, Colin R., ''Pre-1841 Censuses and Population Listings in the British Isles''.&nbsp; Dursley, Gloucestershire, England&nbsp;: Lochin Publishing, 1998 (5th ed). (Family History Library book {{FHL|825423|title-id|disp=942 X27cc, 1998}})


The 1831 census was collated by the census office and the resulting Parish Register Abstracts form an important part of the published census material, because from it alone, the clergymen's manuscript returns have survived. The records are held at [http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/default.asp?source=ddmenu_search3&j=1 The National Archives of the UK] under 'Clergymen's returns of 1831' (HO71/1-HO71/124.)&nbsp;&nbsp;
*The [[Online Historical Population Reports]] page has statistical data available for every parish in the pre-1841 censuses.


There is statistical data available for every parish in the pre-1841 censuses. Consult [[Online Historical Population Reports]] article for further details.
[[File:1841 British Census.jpg|thumb|An example of an 1841 census record]]


==== 1841 ====
===1841===


*Name of each member of the household  
*City or borough, parish or township
*Sex/gender  
*Place (street and house information)
*Age (for adults 15 and up, the age was rounded down to the lower multiple of 5)  
*Name of each member of the household (who stayed in the household the previous night)
*Address
*Sex/gender
*Occupation  
*Age (for adults 15 and up, the age was rounded down to the lower multiple of 5)
*Whether or not the individual was born in the county in which they were living on June 6, 1841. (If it is ‘yes’ , it is noted with “Y” and for ‘no’ it is noted with “N”.)  
*Occupation
*Whether or not the individual was born in the county in which they were living. (If it is ‘yes’ , it is noted with “Y” and for ‘no’ it is noted with “N”.)
*A column indicating if born out of the country, i.e. “S” for Scotland; “I” for Ireland
*A column indicating if born out of the country, i.e. “S” for Scotland; “I” for Ireland


Only individuals in the home on the census night were listed on the forms with the exception of individuals working through the evening and returning home in the morning. If a family member was visiting they would be listed in that person's home. Note: Individuals who were staying in other locations were listed by the owner of the establishment and this included those who were living in tents.
[[Image:1861 British Census.jpg|right|350px|An example of a 1861 census record]]  
 
There are missing sections which have been lost. A detailed listing can be found on [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/helpadvice/knowledge-base/census/index.jsp#issues FindMyPast].
 
This census was conducted by the Registrar General and has the identifying marks of "HO" which stands for 'Home Office'. The returns were sorted and copied into enumerator's books in the format seen today in the digitized online records.
 
'''A wiki article describing an online collection is found at:'''
 
[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_1841_Census_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1841 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]
 
==== 1851 to 1901  ====
 
[[Image:1871 British Census.jpg|right|500px|1871 British Census.jpg]]  


*Name of each member of the household
This census is significant because it was the first census in England and Wales to name '''every''' member of a household.
*Sex/gender
*Age – hopefully exact
*Relationship to the head of the household  
*Condition – marital status
*Occupation
*Parish and county of birth (except foreign births, which usually gave country only)
*The 1851 and 1861 censuses list whether a person was "blind, deaf, or idiot."
*The 1871 and 1881 censuses list whether a person was considered an "imbecile, idiot, or lunatic."
*The 1891 census added the number of rooms (if less than 5) that the family occupied. It also listed whether the person was an employer or an employee.<br>


*1851: An additional census was taken of places of worship, this was a voluntary census and most places of Worship participated. This&nbsp;guide from The National Archives provides a better understand&nbsp;of the Ecclesiastical Census of 1851. [http://www.isle-of-man.com/manxnotebook/methdism/rc1851/index.htm Further information on this census is provided by F. Coakley].
===1851 to 1901===


A&nbsp;detailed listing of the changes made to the census over the years starting in 1841 can be found on the GENUKI website&nbsp;in the [http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/Census.html Census&nbsp;section]. (Examples of Census - 1841, 1851, 1861, 1871) NOTE:&nbsp;Some of the websites have not yet updated their pages to include the 1911 census. [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/helpadvice/knowledge-base/census/index.jsp#issues Findmypast.com ]also provides a comprehensive overview which is also very helpful.  
*Parish or township, ecclesiastical district, city or borough, town or village
*Place (house number, street and address information)
*Name of each member of the household (on the night of the official census date)
*Relationship to the head of the household
*Condition (marital status)
*Sex/gender
*Age
*Occupation
*Parish and county of birth (except foreign births, which usually gave country only)
*The 1851 and 1861 censuses list whether a person was "blind, deaf, or idiot."
*The 1871 and 1881 censuses list whether a person was considered "deaf & dumb, blind, imbecile or idiot, or lunatic."
*The 1891 census added the number of rooms (if less than 5) that the family occupied.
*The 1891 and 1901 censuses list whether the person was an employer, employee, or neither.


The census can also provide a good approximation of date and place of deaths and marriages. Census records are used in combination with church records and civil registration records in locating ancestors.  
1851: An additional census was taken of places of worship in 1851. This was a voluntary census; most places of worship participated. More information about the census can be accessed [[1851 Census Places of Worship | here]]. Additionally, this guide from The National Archives provides a better understand of the Ecclesiastical Census of 1851. [http://www.isle-of-man.com/manxnotebook/methdism/rc1851/index.htm Further information on this census is provided by F. Coakley]


'''Wiki articles describing online collections are found at:'''
===1911===


*[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_1861_Census_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1861 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]
*Name of each member of the household (living in the household on the night of the official census date)
*[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_1881_Census_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1871 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]
*Relationship to the head of the household
*[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_1881_Census_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1881 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]
*Age at last birthday
*[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_1891_Census_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1891 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]
*Sex/gender
*[https://familysearch.org/learn/wiki/en/England_and_Wales_Census,_1901_(FamilySearch_Historical_Records) England and Wales Census, 1901 (FamilySeaach Historical Records)]
 
==== 1911  ====
 
*Name of each member of the household  
*Relationship to the head of the household<br>
*Age at last birthday  
*Sex/gender  
*Particulars as to Marriage including:  
*Particulars as to Marriage including:  
**Marital condition  
**Marital condition/status
**Completed years the present marriage has lasted  
**Completed years the present marriage has lasted
**Total (number of) children born alive&nbsp;
**Total (number of) children born alive
**Children (number of) still living  
**Children (number of) still living
**Children (number of) who have died  
**Children (number of) who have died
*Profession or Occupation&nbsp;
*Particulars as to Profession including:
**Industry or service of work  
**Profession or Occupation
**Whether an employer, worker, or working on own account  
**Industry or service of work
**Whether working at home  
**Whether an employer, worker, or working on own account
*Parish and county of birth of everyone in the household
**Whether working at home
*Nationality of every person born in a foreign country  
*Parish and county of birth (foreign born only include birth country)
*Lists wether a person was "totally deaf, deaf and dumb, totally blind, lunatic, imbecile, or feeble-mined"  
*Nationality of every person born in a foreign country
*The 1911 Census was the first census where original forms were kept. Handwriting is that of ancestor.
*Lists whether a person was "totally deaf, deaf and dumb, totally blind, lunatic, imbecile, or feeble-mined"
 
*If able to speak in English, Welsh, or both
'''A wiki article describing an online collection is found at:'''
*Head of family
 
*Postal address
[[England and Wales Census, 1911 (FamilySearch Historical Records)|England and Wales Census, 1911 (FamilySearch Historical Records)]]


== Statistical Data Gathered from the Census  ==
===1921===


There is statistical data available for every census year from 1801 to 1931 on [[Histpop]] - the [[Online Historical Population Reports]] (OHPR) website. The statistical data records the number of houses, families, people, and other statistical data for every parish in England. It allows one to see the growth of parishes and regions from census year to census year.  
The 1921 Census includes these additional questions:
*Age in years and month
*People born abroad giving a country and province
*Lists whether children were orphaned
*Lists whether previously divorced
*Lists if attending school.


== Finding and Using Census Indexes  ==
===1931===


[[Image:Osmotherley1.jpg|right|200px|Osmotherley1.jpg]] Many repositories, including the Family History Library, hold a number of indexes to the census records. They may be:
A census was held in 1931 which unfortunately was destroyed in 1942 due to a fire unrelated to the war. However records from Scotland have survived.  
 
*Original Census records from 1841-1891
*Surname Indexes
*Street Indexes
*Some remnants of 1801-1831 censuses that include names
 
==== &nbsp;Online  ====
 
Several websites have now published online many of the census indexes and records from 1841-1911. The sites are as follows:
 
{| width="500" border="1" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1"
|-
| [https://familysearch.org/search/collection/list#page=1&region=UNITED_KINGDOM_IRELAND www.familysearch.org]
| [[England and Wales 1841 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1841]], [[England and Wales 1851 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1851]], [[England and Wales 1861 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1861]], [[England and Wales 1871 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1871]], [[England and Wales 1881 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1881]], [[England and Wales 1891 Census (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1891]], [[England and Wales Census, 1901 (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1901]], [[England and Wales Census, 1911 (FamilySearch Historical Records)|1911]]
| Indexes
|
|-
| [http://search.ancestry.co.uk/search/grouplist.aspx?group=ukicen www.ancestry.co.uk]&nbsp;&nbsp;
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</span>
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/content/search-menu/census-land-and-surveys www.findmypast.co.uk]&nbsp;&nbsp;
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</span>
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.thegenealogist.co.uk www.thegenealogist.co.uk]&nbsp;
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1901; 1911 beta testing</span>
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.origins.net www.origins.net]&nbsp;;&nbsp;
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841; 1861-1871</span>
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/Census.html www.genuki.org.uk]
|
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Links to indexes</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.1911census.co.uk www.1911census.co.uk]&nbsp;
| ($)
|
|
|-
| [http://www.censusfinder.com/ www.censusfinder.com]&nbsp;
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">(free)</span>
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Transcripts of some England census records</span>
|
|-
| [http://www.freecen.org.uk/ www.freecen.org.uk]&nbsp;
| (free)
| <span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Transcripts of some England census records&nbsp;</span>
|
|}
 
==== &nbsp;&nbsp;Smaller Local Census Surname Indexes at the Family History Library  ====
 
In addition to the nationwide census surname indexes, there are&nbsp;many smaller surname indexes, created by individuals&nbsp;and family history societies in England,&nbsp;that cover specific&nbsp;counties, districts&nbsp;or parishes. The following links will direct you to pages that show these smaller surname indexes for each county,&nbsp;and which&nbsp;are found in the [[Family History Library]]'s collection.  
 
{| style="width: 100%;" border="1" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1"
|-
| [[Bedfordshire Census Surname Index|Bedfordshire Indexes]]
| [[Berkshire Census Surname Index|Berkshire Indexes]]
| [[Buckinghamshire Census Surname Index|Buckinghamshire Indexes]]
| [[Cambridgeshire Census Surname Index|Cambridgeshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Cheshire Census Surname Index|Cheshire Indexes]]
| [[Cornwall Census Surname Index|Cornwall Indexes]]
| [[Cumberland Census Surname Index|Cumberland Indexes]]
| [[Derbyshire Census Surname Index|Derbyshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Devon Census Surname Index|Devon Indexes]]
| [[Dorset Census Surname Index|Dorset Indexes]]
| [[Durham Census Surname Index|Durham Indexes]]
| [[Essex Census Surname Index|Essex Indexes]]
|-
| [[Gloucestershire Census Surname Index|Gloucestershire Indexes]]
| [[Hampshire Census Surname Index|Hampshire Indexes]]
| [[Herefordshire Census Surname Index|Herefordshire Indexes]]
| [[Hertfordshire Census Surname Index|Hertfordshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Huntingdonshire Census Surname Index|Huntingdonshire Indexes]]
| [[Kent Census Surname Index|Kent Indexes]]
| [[Lancashire Census Surname Index|Lancashire Indexes]]
| [[Leicestershire Census Surname Index|Leicestershire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Lincolnshire Census Surname Index|Lincolnshire Indexes]]
| [[London and Middlesex Census Surname Indexes at the Family History Library|London Indexes]]
| [[London and Middlesex Census Surname Indexes at the Family History Library|Middlesex Indexes]]
| [[Norfolk Census Surname Index|Norfolk Indexes]]
|-
| [[Northamptonshire Census Surname Index|Northamptonshire Indexes]]
| [[Northumberland Census Surname Index|Northumberland Indexes]]
| [[Nottinghamshire Census Surname Index|Nottinghamshire Indexes]]
| [[Oxfordshire Census Surname Index|Oxfordshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Rutland Census Surname Index|Rutland Indexes]]
| [[Shropshire Census Surname Index|Shropshire Indexes]]
| [[Somerset Census Surname Index|Somerset Indexes]]
| [[Staffordshire Census Surname Index|Staffordshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Suffolk Census Surname Index|Suffolk Indexes]]
| [[Surrey Census Surname Index|Surrey Indexes]]
| [[Sussex Census Surname Index|Sussex Indexes]]
| [[Warwickshire Census Surname Index|Warwickshire Indexes]]
|-
| [[Westmoreland Census Surname Index|Westmoreland Indexes]]
| [[Wiltshire Census Surname Indexes at the Family History Library|Wiltshire Indexes]]
| [[Worcestershire Census Surname Index|Worcestershire Indexes]]
| [[Yorkshire Census Surname Index|Yorkshire Indexes]]
|}
 
<br> Learn more effective search features in FamilySearch&nbsp;see [http://britishheritage4um.blogspot.com/2011/08/ten-powerful-search-features-in.html '''''Ten Powerful Search Features in the FamilySearch.org Search Engine''''']<ref>fckLRfckLRfckLRFor more details about each website, see [[England Census Records and Indexes Online|England Census Records and Indexes Online]] </ref>
 
<br>
 
== Online Tutorials  ==
 
{{Online course badge
| link = https://www.familysearch.org/learningcenter/lesson/behind-the-scenes-two-centuries-of-census-taking/274
| name = Behind the Scenes: Two Centuries of Census-taking
}}


*[https://familysearch.org/learningcenter/lesson/england-beginning-research-series-lesson-2-census-records/133 England Beginning Research Series Lesson 2: Census Records]<br>
===The 1939 Register===


== Finding and Using Census Records  ==
In 2015 Findmypast released the 1939 register to the public. It was a registration of the population of England on September 29th, 1939, taken for administrative purposes due to the outbreak of World War II. <br> This Register was to be a critical tool in coordinating the war effort at home. It would be used to issue identity cards, organize rationing and more. <br>


Census records are more easily available than ever before. Caution should be used when searching them for family members. Never assume what isn’t there or “leap” generations in linking individuals.  
The Register lists full names, full dates of birth, occupations, and addresses. The register was maintained in some form up to 1991 so changes of name upon marriage and subsequent deaths may also be noted. <br>


==== Important Searching Point  ====
The register is particularly significant due to it being 82 years old, less than the usual 100 year limit, and the fact that no census survives for 1931 and none was taken in 1941. <br>


A number of items need to be considered while searching census records for family members:  
*'''1939''' [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register/1939-register-getting-started How-to Video for 1939 Register]
*'''1939''' [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register?utm_source=fmp&utm_content=636597&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news Search Engine for 1939 Register] at Findmypast - index & images ($)
*'''1939''' {{RecordSearch|2836130|England and Wales National Register, 1939}}(*) at FamilySearch - [[England and Wales National Register, 1939 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index; ''Also at [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61596/ Ancestry] - index & images ($), [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10678/1939-register-of-england-wales?s=275764761 MyHeritage] ($)''


#Names may be misspelled – both Christian and surnames could have variant spellings.
===Missing Records===
#Ages and birthplaces may not be accurate – consider who was reporting the information.
#Relationships may not be expressed in terms understood today – regionally “in law” and “step” are&nbsp;&nbsp; terms&nbsp;that have different meanings.
#Jurisdictions changed – as population grew and shifted, jurisdictions changed.
#People may not be where they are expected – a disaster or plague may have forced a family to move.
#Pages may be unreadable – use “zoom” and other enhancements on digital copiers.<br>


Census details changed little from year to year.&nbsp; See a&nbsp;[http://homepage.ntlworld.com/hitch/gendocs/census.html detailed listing]&nbsp;of the changes made to the census over the years starting in 1841. At the&nbsp;[http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/Census.html GENUKI]&nbsp;website you will find an excellent explanation of the census records and availability. (Examples of Census -&nbsp;[[1841 British Census Example|1841]], 1851,&nbsp;[[1861 British Census Example|1861]], 1871) NOTE: Many of the websites have not yet updated their pages to include the 1911 census.<br>&nbsp;{{further|England Census: Further Information and Description}}
Various parts of the England, Wales, and Scotland census returns from 1841 to 1911 are incomplete and have pieces missing. Findmypast has identified the known gaps by census year, nation, county, and village or parish in this Findmypast article entitled "[http://www.findmypast.com/articles/census-for-england-wales-and-scotland-missing-pieces Census for England, Wales and Scotland: missing pieces]".


A [[Media:British_Census_Form.pdf|worksheet]] can be used to record information found in census records.
==Online Tutorials==


== References  ==
*[https://www.familysearch.org/help/helpcenter/lessons/england-and-wales-census-records-1841-1911-indexes '''England and Wales Census Records 1841-1911 Indexes''']


{{reflist}}
==Statistical Data Gathered from the Census==


{{Place|England}}
There is statistical data available for every census year from 1801 to 1931 on [[Online Historical Population Reports | Histpop - the Online Historical Population Reports (OHPR)]] website. The statistical data records the number of houses, families, people, and other statistical data for every parish in England. It allows one to see the growth of parishes and regions from census year to census year.


{{featured article}}
==References==


[[Category:Census_records_in_England]] [[Category:England|Census]]
[[fr:Angleterre : Recensements]]
[[Category:Census records by country|England]]
[[Category:England_Census_Records]]

Latest revision as of 17:56, 20 March 2024


England Wiki Topics
Flag of England
England Beginning Research
Record Types
England Background
England Genealogical Word Lists
Cultural Groups
Local Research Resources

Introduction to England and Wales Census

Historical populations
Census Pop. %±
1801 8,305,362 —
1811 9,553,021 15.0%
1821 11,281,883 18.1%
1831 12,992,485 15.2%
1841 15,002,443 15.5%
1851 16,921,888 12.8%
1861 18,779,811 11.0%
1871 21,495,131 14.5%
1881 24,613,926 14.5%
1891 27,231,074 10.6%
1901 30,514,967 12.1%
1911 33,649,571 10.3%
1921 35,230,225 4.7%
1931 37,359,045 6.0%
Source: 1931 Census - Histpop

The census is a head count of everyone in the country on a given day. A census has been taken in England and Wales, and separately for Scotland, every ten years since 1801, with the exception of 1941. [1]

A well-indexed census is one of the easiest ways to locate where an ancestor lived and when they lived there. You can also use censuses to:

  • Follow the family over time
  • Determine family relationships
  • Find clues to other locations where the family lived

    • England and Wales Censuses with Online Links

    1801-1831
    (Incomplete)*     		1841 1851 1861 1871
    National Archives*
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)
    1881 1891 1901 1911 1921
    FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		FamilySearch
    Ancestry.com($)
    Findmypast($)     		Findmypast($)

    *1801-1831 detailed information on incomplete records

    Additional Online Links


    Census Forms and Headings

    The links below show the form layouts and the column headings on each census form. The headings listed the questions asked on each census (in PDF format). Also, Guy Etchells has assembled a collection of the official instructions given to enumerators for each census.

  • 1841 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1851 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales
  • 1841 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1851 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales
  • 1861 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1871 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1861 and 1871 Headings for the Census of England and Wales
  • 1881 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1891 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1881 and 1891 Headings for the Census of England and Wales
  • 1901 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1911 Census Form (PDF)
  • 1901 and 1911 Headings for the Census of England and Wales

    • Understanding the Censuses 1841-1921

    In England, the government censuses have been taken every ten years since 1801. The first four censuses, 1801 through 1831, were taken strictly for statistical purposes for the Overseers of the Poor and substantial households.[2]
    The first census listing people by name was taken in 1841.
    Census records are generally released 100 years after they were taken.

    These links give detailed information on the England and Wales censuses.

    How the Censuses were Taken

    Census details changed little year to year. Each census used a pre-printed form and were taken on specific dates. The enumeration districts were small enough for an enumerator to complete his work in one day. To avoid double counting, the pre-printed form was handed by the enumerator to the head of household with the instructions to only record those physically located at the home on census night. Therefore those away at boarding schools, working at night, on vacation, etc. were not enumerated. Conversely, relatives, boarders, servants, etc. were enumerated. The pre-printed forms were collected soon after the census date. From 1841-1901 the enumerator copied the household information onto a master form. In 1911 the original forms were kept, with each household having its own form.

    The dates of each census were as follows:

    1841 – June 6 1881 – April 3
    1851 – March 30 1891 – April 5
    1861 – April 7 1901 – March 31
    1871 – April 2 1911 – April 2
    1921 - June 19

    Pre-1841 Census

    There are 791 surviving census listings for 1801-1831 created on the parish level.[3] The few surviving pre-1841 censuses generally contain only names of the head-of-household.

    An example of an 1841 census record

    1841

    • City or borough, parish or township
    • Place (street and house information)
    • Name of each member of the household (who stayed in the household the previous night)
    • Sex/gender
    • Age (for adults 15 and up, the age was rounded down to the lower multiple of 5)
    • Occupation
    • Whether or not the individual was born in the county in which they were living. (If it is ‘yes’ , it is noted with “Y” and for ‘no’ it is noted with “N”.)
    • A column indicating if born out of the country, i.e. “S” for Scotland; “I” for Ireland
    An example of a 1861 census record

    This census is significant because it was the first census in England and Wales to name every member of a household.

    1851 to 1901

    • Parish or township, ecclesiastical district, city or borough, town or village
    • Place (house number, street and address information)
    • Name of each member of the household (on the night of the official census date)
    • Relationship to the head of the household
    • Condition (marital status)
    • Sex/gender
    • Age
    • Occupation
    • Parish and county of birth (except foreign births, which usually gave country only)
    • The 1851 and 1861 censuses list whether a person was "blind, deaf, or idiot."
    • The 1871 and 1881 censuses list whether a person was considered "deaf & dumb, blind, imbecile or idiot, or lunatic."
    • The 1891 census added the number of rooms (if less than 5) that the family occupied.
    • The 1891 and 1901 censuses list whether the person was an employer, employee, or neither.

    1851: An additional census was taken of places of worship in 1851. This was a voluntary census; most places of worship participated. More information about the census can be accessed here. Additionally, this guide from The National Archives provides a better understand of the Ecclesiastical Census of 1851. Further information on this census is provided by F. Coakley

    1911

    • Name of each member of the household (living in the household on the night of the official census date)
    • Relationship to the head of the household
    • Age at last birthday
    • Sex/gender
    • Particulars as to Marriage including:
      • Marital condition/status
      • Completed years the present marriage has lasted
      • Total (number of) children born alive
      • Children (number of) still living
      • Children (number of) who have died
    • Particulars as to Profession including:
      • Profession or Occupation
      • Industry or service of work
      • Whether an employer, worker, or working on own account
      • Whether working at home
    • Parish and county of birth (foreign born only include birth country)
    • Nationality of every person born in a foreign country
    • Lists whether a person was "totally deaf, deaf and dumb, totally blind, lunatic, imbecile, or feeble-mined"
    • If able to speak in English, Welsh, or both
    • Head of family
    • Postal address

    1921

    The 1921 Census includes these additional questions:

    • Age in years and month
    • People born abroad giving a country and province
    • Lists whether children were orphaned
    • Lists whether previously divorced
    • Lists if attending school.

    1931

    A census was held in 1931 which unfortunately was destroyed in 1942 due to a fire unrelated to the war. However records from Scotland have survived.

    The 1939 Register

    In 2015 Findmypast released the 1939 register to the public. It was a registration of the population of England on September 29th, 1939, taken for administrative purposes due to the outbreak of World War II.
    This Register was to be a critical tool in coordinating the war effort at home. It would be used to issue identity cards, organize rationing and more.

    The Register lists full names, full dates of birth, occupations, and addresses. The register was maintained in some form up to 1991 so changes of name upon marriage and subsequent deaths may also be noted.

    The register is particularly significant due to it being 82 years old, less than the usual 100 year limit, and the fact that no census survives for 1931 and none was taken in 1941.

    Missing Records

    Various parts of the England, Wales, and Scotland census returns from 1841 to 1911 are incomplete and have pieces missing. Findmypast has identified the known gaps by census year, nation, county, and village or parish in this Findmypast article entitled "Census for England, Wales and Scotland: missing pieces".

    Online Tutorials

    Statistical Data Gathered from the Census

    There is statistical data available for every census year from 1801 to 1931 on Histpop - the Online Historical Population Reports (OHPR) website. The statistical data records the number of houses, families, people, and other statistical data for every parish in England. It allows one to see the growth of parishes and regions from census year to census year.

    References

    1. ↑ National Archives Census Records How to look for records of...Census records. Date Accessed: 27 December 2021.
    2. ↑ University of Essex PDF on the University of Essex's server Census schedules and listings, 1801–1831:an introduction and guide pg.4 Date Accessed: 27 December 2021.
    3. ↑ Wall, Richard, Matthew Woollard, and Beatrice Moring. Census schedules and listings, 1801-1831: an introduction and guide. Colchester: Dept. of History, University of Essex. 2004.
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