England Census: Difference between revisions

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==Introduction to England and Wales Census==
 
==Introduction==
 
{{Historical populations
{{Historical populations
|heading = Census
|heading = Census
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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.  The results of this survey were recorded in what became known as The Domesday Book. 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. [[Image:Census of the Population 1871 (England and Wales).png|thumb|right|300px|Census of the Population 1871 (England and Wales).png]]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.  
==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]($)
*[https://www.myheritage.com/research/category-1200/uk-ireland-census MyHeritage]($)


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 details changed little from year to year. See a [http://www.thepotteries.org/education/census.htm detailed listing] of the changes made to the census over the years starting in 1841. At the [http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/Census.html GENUKI] website you will find an excellent explanation of the census records and availability. <br> {{further|England Census: Further Information and Description}}
==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.
{|
 
|-
==Understanding the Census==
|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>
[[Image:Brompton5.jpg|thumb|right|259x327px]]  
  <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>
|}


At each census, a pre-printed form was used, and this was handed by the enumerators to heads of household. They were told to only record those actually at home on census night, therefore you will not find listed at home those at boarding schools or those working at night. These were collected soon afterwards. In 1841-1901 the enumerator copied the details given onto a master form which is what survives, but in 1911 the original forms were kept, with each household having its own form.  
==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>


The dates of each census were as follows:
The dates of each census were as follows:
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|'''1871''' – April 2
|'''1871''' – April 2
|'''1911''' – April 2
|'''1911''' – April 2
|-
|
|'''1921''' - June 19
|}
|}


===Pre-1841 Census===
===Pre-1841 Census===


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. 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) [https://www1.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 enroll 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.
*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 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],


There is statistical data available for every parish in the pre-1841 censuses. Consult [[Online Historical Population Reports]] article for further details.
*The [[Online Historical Population Reports]] page has statistical data available for every parish in the pre-1841 censuses.
 
===Census 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].
 
*[[Media:1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1841 and 1851 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]
*[[Media:1861 and 1871 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1861 and 1871 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]
*[[Media:1881 and 1891 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1881 and 1891 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]
*[[Media:1901 and 1911 Headings for the Census of England and Wales.pdf|1901 and 1911 Headings for the Census of England and Wales]]


[[File:1841 British Census.jpg|thumb|An example of an 1841 census record]]
[[File:1841 British Census.jpg|thumb|An example of an 1841 census record]]
Line 98: Line 154:


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


===1851 to 1901===
===1851 to 1901===
Line 145: Line 199:
===1921===
===1921===


A census was held in 1921 which will be released to the public in 2022. Additional questions, besides what was asked in the 1911 census, include giving age in years and month, people born abroad giving a country and province, whether children were orphaned, whether previously divorced, and whether attending school.
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===
===1931===
Line 153: Line 212:
===The 1939 Register===
===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. <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>  
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>  


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>  
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>  


The register is particularly significant due to it being 76 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>  
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>  


*[http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register/1939-register-getting-started How-to Video for 1939 Register]
*'''1939''' [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register/1939-register-getting-started How-to Video for 1939 Register]
*[http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register?utm_source=fmp&utm_content=636597&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news Search Engine for 1939 Register], ($), index and images.
*'''1939''' [http://www.findmypast.co.uk/1939register?utm_source=fmp&utm_content=636597&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=news Search Engine for 1939 Register] at Findmypast - index & images ($)
*'''1939''' - {{RecordSearch|2836130|England and Wales National Register, 1939}} at [https://familysearch.org/search FamilySearch] — index
*'''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 ($), [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10678/1939-register-of-england-wales?s=275764761 MyHeritage] ($)''


===Missing Records===
===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 "[http://www.findmypast.com/articles/census-for-england-wales-and-scotland-missing-pieces Census for England, Wales and Scotland: missing pieces]".
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]".
 
==Accessing Census Records==
 
[[Image:Osmotherley1.jpg|right|200px|Osmotherley1.jpg]] The 1841-1911 censuses are all indexed and the images available online. They can be searched by name, age, birthplace, locality, and household member. The easiest way to locate census records is to search by name. If this fails, search by place or as a last resort browse through the images manually.
 
====Online====
 
Several websites have now published online many of the census indexes and records from 1841-1911. Each site has transcribed the census independently. Since the records are often hard to read, there will be errors. Try searching across multiple sites if you can't find the name you seek.
 
{| width="600" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="1"
|-
|[https://familysearch.org/search/collection/list#page=1&region=UNITED_KINGDOM_IRELAND www.familysearch.org]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;"> 1841-1911</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Complete Index. Images available on site or through Partners ($)</span>
|-
|[https://search.ancestry.com/search/group/ukicen www.ancestry.com]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|-
|[https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records-in-census-land-and-substitutes www.findmypast.com]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|-
|[https://www.myheritage.com/research/category-1200/uk-ireland-census www.myheritage.com]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Index &amp; images</span>
|-
|[http://www.thegenealogist.co.uk www.thegenealogist.co.uk]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">($) 1841-1911</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;">(free)</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Links to indexes</span>
|-
|[http://www.censusfinder.com/ www.censusfinder.com]
|<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]
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">(free) 1841-1891</span>
|<span style="line-height: 19.92px;">Transcripts of some England census records</span>
|}
 
Ancestry.com, FindMyPast.com, and MyHeritage.com are all subscription sites but can be accessed for free at the Family History Library, at various Family History Centers, and through FamilySearch Partner Access. Click [[England, Using Ancestry.com and Ancestry.co.uk for English Research | here]] for a wiki article on how best to search for census records on Ancestry.com.
 
====Smaller Local 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 ;or parishes. The following links will direct you to pages that show these smaller surname indexes for each county,&nbsp;and which ;are found in the [[Family History Library]]'s collection.
 
{| cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="1" style="width: 100%;"
|-
|[[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>For more details about each website, see [[England Census Records and Indexes Online|England Census Records and Indexes Online]]</ref>
 
==Advice for using Census Records==
 
====Important Searching Points====
 
A number of items need to be considered while searching census records for family members:
 
#Names may be misspelled – both Christian and surnames could have variant spellings.
#Ages and birthplaces may not be accurate – consider who was reporting the information.
#Relationships may not be expressed in terms understood today – regionally and historically “in law” and “step” are terms 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 (either illegible, torn, smeared, or faded) – use “zoom” and other enhancements on digital copiers.
#Indexes may be incomplete or incorrect – indexers were not always accurate.<br>
 
If you cannot find a person it means you need to vary your search parameters or search in other indexes.  If you believe your ancestor was in a particular census area, search the census even if your ancestor is not in the index.
 
[http://www.worldthroughthelens.com/family-history/old-occupations.php Here] is a list of obscure occupations listed in the 1841-1911 censuses.<br>
 
====Searching Tips====
 
Here are some tips for searching in online indexes:
 
:*Use [https://www.lifewire.com/web-search-tricks-to-know-4046148 wildcards].
:*Try different spelling variations for first names and surnames or even just try the first letter.
:*Include a range of birth years (ages are prone to be inaccurate).
:*Find the family in every possible census and compare information.
:*Always consult the original census image, do not only rely on indexes or transcriptions.
:*Consider using street addresses to locate people in the census.  A relative may be living at a previous or future address.
 
====Worksheets====
 
A generic '''[[Media:British Census Form.pdf|census worksheet]]''' can be used to record information found in all census records. Or, forms for specific census years are available at Ancestry.com:
 
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1841.pdf 1841 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1851.pdf 1851 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1861.pdf 1861 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1871.pdf 1871 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1881.pdf 1881 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1891.pdf 1891 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1901.pdf 1901 Census Form] (PDF)
:*[https://www.ancestrycdn.com/legacy/pdf/trees/charts/ukcensus1911.pdf 1911 Census Form] (PDF)
 
====Jurisdictions====
To help find census records and to locate where your ancestors lived on a map, it is important to understand the jurisdictions and administrative systems of the census. Visit [http://maps.familysearch.org/ FamilySearch Maps] to learn more about the jurisdictions of England in 1851.
 
For example, in 1841, records were arranged primarily by civil parish, then by a sub-registration district, then an enumeration district.


==Online Tutorials==
==Online Tutorials==
Line 328: Line 236:
==References==
==References==


{{reflist}}
{{Place|England}}
[[fr:Angleterre : Recensements]]
[[fr:Angleterre : Recensements]]
[[Category:Census records by country|England]]
[[Category:Census records by country|England]]
[[Category:England_Census_Records]]
[[Category:England_Census_Records]]

Latest revision as of 17:56, 20 March 2024


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Introduction to England and Wales Census[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]


    Census Forms and Headings[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    • 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[edit | edit source]

    • 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[edit | edit source]

    • 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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    Statistical Data Gathered from the Census[edit | edit source]

    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[edit | edit source]

    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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