0
edits
Added a section on the new online training now available at FamilySearch for British Church Records
No edit summary |
(Added a section on the new online training now available at FamilySearch for British Church Records) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
Church records are an excellent source for accurate information on names and dates and on places of births, marriages, and deaths. Most people who lived in England have information recorded about them in a church record. Since civil authorities did not begin registering vital statistics until July 1837, church records are the best source for family information before that date. | Church records are an excellent source for accurate information on names and dates and on places of births, marriages, and deaths. Most people who lived in England have information recorded about them in a church record. Since civil authorities did not begin registering vital statistics until July 1837, church records are the best source for family information before that date. | ||
In the 1530s King Henry VIII severed ties with the Pope and declared himself the head of the Church of England. This church became known as the state church and was also known as the Established or Anglican Church. In Scotland the Anglican Church was also known as the Episcopal Church. In the 17th Century, there began to be dissension within the Church of England and other religions began to spring up. These other religions are referred to as "nonconformists." or "dissenters" Nonconformists are discussed further on in this section under the name of each denomination. | In the 1530s King Henry VIII severed ties with the Pope and declared himself the head of the Church of England. This church became known as the state church and was also known as the Established or Anglican Church. In Scotland the Anglican Church was also known as the Episcopal Church. In the 17th Century, there began to be dissension within the Church of England and other religions began to spring up. These other religions are referred to as "nonconformists." or "dissenters" Nonconformists are discussed further on in this section under the name of each denomination. | ||
Some church records have been destroyed by fire, lost, stolen, defaced, or damaged by dampness or aging. To protect their records, most parishes have deposited their early registers in county record offices. Addresses of the county record offices are given in: | Some church records have been destroyed by fire, lost, stolen, defaced, or damaged by dampness or aging. To protect their records, most parishes have deposited their early registers in county record offices. Addresses of the county record offices are given in: | ||
Humphery-Smith, Cecil R., ''The Phillimore Atlas and Index of Parish Registers''. Second Edition. Chichester, Sussex: Phillimore & Company, 1995. (FHL book 942 E7pa 1995.) | Humphery-Smith, Cecil R., ''The Phillimore Atlas and Index of Parish Registers''. Second Edition. Chichester, Sussex: Phillimore & Company, 1995. (FHL book 942 E7pa 1995.) | ||
Parish maps can help you determine which parish to search. Maps will reveal neighbouring parishes to search if your ancestor is not listed in the parish where you expected him or her to be. See [[England Maps]] for more information. | Parish maps can help you determine which parish to search. Maps will reveal neighbouring parishes to search if your ancestor is not listed in the parish where you expected him or her to be. See [[England Maps|England Maps]] for more information. | ||
==Church of England Records== | == Church of England Records == | ||
The Church of England was the government-sponsored and predominant religion to which the vast majority of England's populace belonged. Created in 1536, after King Henry VIII severed all ties to the church in Rome, he directed that each local parish be responsible to register all marriages, baptisms and burials. These records are the primary source for family history research in England for the period prior to 1st July 1837 (date of civil registration in England). | The Church of England was the government-sponsored and predominant religion to which the vast majority of England's populace belonged. Created in 1536, after King Henry VIII severed all ties to the church in Rome, he directed that each local parish be responsible to register all marriages, baptisms and burials. These records are the primary source for family history research in England for the period prior to 1st July 1837 (date of civil registration in England). | ||
Although a nationwide order was given in 1538 that each parish keep a register of records, many parishes did not start to keep registers until some years later and some records have since been lost or destroyed. | Although a nationwide order was given in 1538 that each parish keep a register of records, many parishes did not start to keep registers until some years later and some records have since been lost or destroyed. Beginning in 1598, copies of entries from many parishes were copied and sent annually to the bishop for the diocese for that area and these copies are known as Bishop’s Transcripts. | ||
Since the legibility of the early records varies and since some years may be missing in the Bishop’s Transcript copy of the parish registers, many researchers prefer to use the microfilms of both the original parish registers and of the Bishop’s Transcript copy of these records, if both are available. | Since the legibility of the early records varies and since some years may be missing in the Bishop’s Transcript copy of the parish registers, many researchers prefer to use the microfilms of both the original parish registers and of the Bishop’s Transcript copy of these records, if both are available. | ||
'''Parish.'''Each local parish keeps records. A "parish" is the jurisdictional unit that governs church affairs within its boundaries. Small villages often do not have their own parishes but are part of a parish headquartered in another town. A parish may have one or more "chapelries" | '''Parish.'''Each local parish keeps records. A "parish" is the jurisdictional unit that governs church affairs within its boundaries. Small villages often do not have their own parishes but are part of a parish headquartered in another town. A parish may have one or more "chapelries" (dependent district churches or chapels of ease), which often keep their own records. | ||
'''Chapelry.'''A small parochial division of a large, populated parish. Most chapels or chapelries kept their own registers of baptisms and burials, and where authorization was granted, marriage registers were also kept. Many parishes throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and several other counties comprised of numerous chapelries, i.e. Prestbury, Cheshire--some of them of ancient origin with 32 chapels. | '''Chapelry.'''A small parochial division of a large, populated parish. Most chapels or chapelries kept their own registers of baptisms and burials, and where authorization was granted, marriage registers were also kept. Many parishes throughout Lancashire, Cheshire, and several other counties comprised of numerous chapelries, i.e. Prestbury, Cheshire--some of them of ancient origin with 32 chapels. | ||
| Line 81: | Line 81: | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ||
===Indexes to marriages. === | === Indexes to marriages. === | ||
Boyd, Percival. Boyd’s ''Marriage Index''. Bound typescript. N.p., n.d. This work is an index to marriages in 4,375 parishes throughout England. It is available on microfilm, on microfiche, and as a book. Look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue for library call numbers. | Boyd, Percival. Boyd’s ''Marriage Index''. Bound typescript. N.p., n.d. This work is an index to marriages in 4,375 parishes throughout England. It is available on microfilm, on microfiche, and as a book. Look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue for library call numbers. | ||
| Line 171: | Line 171: | ||
Tate, W. E. ''The Parish Chest''. Third Edition. Chichester, Sussex, England: Phillimore, 1969. (FHL book 942 K2t.) <!--{12082014397340} --> | Tate, W. E. ''The Parish Chest''. Third Edition. Chichester, Sussex, England: Phillimore, 1969. (FHL book 942 K2t.) <!--{12082014397340} --> | ||
<br> | |||
==Nonconformist Church Records== | == Nonconformist Church Records == | ||
A nonconformist denomination is any denomination not conforming to the Church of England, including Roman Catholics, Jews, and Quakers. The registers of these religions sometimes contain more information than those of the Church of England, often including the person’s birth date, baptism date, father’s name and residence, and mother’s name (including maiden name). They rarely contain marriage records (except for Quakers and Jews). | A nonconformist denomination is any denomination not conforming to the Church of England, including Roman Catholics, Jews, and Quakers. The registers of these religions sometimes contain more information than those of the Church of England, often including the person’s birth date, baptism date, father’s name and residence, and mother’s name (including maiden name). They rarely contain marriage records (except for Quakers and Jews). | ||
Nonconformist registers contain some burial entries, though nonconformists were usually buried in parish churchyards until the chapel obtained its own burial grounds or until civil cemeteries opened. | Nonconformist registers contain some burial entries, though nonconformists were usually buried in parish churchyards until the chapel obtained its own burial grounds or until civil cemeteries opened. | ||
It is not uncommon to find an ancestor affiliated with more than one religion during his or her lifetime. Search all religions and all chapels of a particular religion if an ancestor might be a nonconformist because some people changed religions and travelled long distances to attend their meetings. Ministers often travelled large circuits keeping the vital statistics of several places in the register they carried with them. | It is not uncommon to find an ancestor affiliated with more than one religion during his or her lifetime. Search all religions and all chapels of a particular religion if an ancestor might be a nonconformist because some people changed religions and travelled long distances to attend their meetings. Ministers often travelled large circuits keeping the vital statistics of several places in the register they carried with them. | ||
A law passed in 1836 required many nonconformist groups to send their registers into the Public Record Office. The Family History Library has microfilm copies of those that were deposited. Many of these records have been extracted, and the names appear in the International Genealogical Index. | A law passed in 1836 required many nonconformist groups to send their registers into the Public Record Office. The Family History Library has microfilm copies of those that were deposited. Many of these records have been extracted, and the names appear in the International Genealogical Index. | ||
Major nonconformist groups are discussed below. The following two works contain more information about nonconformist sects: | Major nonconformist groups are discussed below. The following two works contain more information about nonconformist sects: | ||
Steel, Donald J. ''Sources for Nonconformist Genealogy and Family History''. London, England: Phillimore, 1973. (FHL book 942 V26ste, vol. 2.) | Steel, Donald J. ''Sources for Nonconformist Genealogy and Family History''. London, England: Phillimore, 1973. (FHL book 942 V26ste, vol. 2.) | ||
''Sources for Roman Catholic and Jewish Genealogy and Family History''. London, England: Phillimore, 1974. (FHL book 942 V26ste, vol. 3.) | ''Sources for Roman Catholic and Jewish Genealogy and Family History''. London, England: Phillimore, 1974. (FHL book 942 V26ste, vol. 3.) | ||
==Presbyterians, Baptists, and Independents== | == Presbyterians, Baptists, and Independents == | ||
These religions evolved from 16th century Puritanism. The records of these religions are similar to those of the Church of England. The Baptists, however, practiced adult baptism and recorded births in birth registers, not baptism registers. The Independent Church is also known as the Congregational Church. | These religions evolved from 16th century Puritanism. The records of these religions are similar to those of the Church of England. The Baptists, however, practiced adult baptism and recorded births in birth registers, not baptism registers. The Independent Church is also known as the Congregational Church. | ||
Many congregations did not keep consistent records. In January 1743 officials formed a central registry for births for all three denominations, called [[Dr. Williams- Library|<u>Dr. Williams’ Library</u>]]. | Many congregations did not keep consistent records. In January 1743 officials formed a central registry for births for all three denominations, called [[Dr. Williams- Library|<u>Dr. Williams’ Library</u>]]. | ||
This registry contains about 50,000 birth records. Information recorded includes the child’s name, parents’ names, birth date, address, names of witnesses, registration information, and sometimes the grandparents’ names. | This registry contains about 50,000 birth records. Information recorded includes the child’s name, parents’ names, birth date, address, names of witnesses, registration information, and sometimes the grandparents’ names. | ||
The original records are housed at the National Record Office. Copies of these records are on microfilm in the Family History Library to 1837. To find the film numbers, look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | The original records are housed at the National Record Office. Copies of these records are on microfilm in the Family History Library to 1837. To find the film numbers, look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | ||
DR. WILLIAMS' LIBRARY (LONDON) | DR. WILLIAMS' LIBRARY (LONDON) | ||
The following book discusses Baptist history and records: | The following book discusses Baptist history and records: | ||
Breed, Geoffrey R. ''My Ancestors Were Baptists: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1988. (FHL book 942 K23bg 1988.) | Breed, Geoffrey R. ''My Ancestors Were Baptists: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1988. (FHL book 942 K23bg 1988.) | ||
For information or history about Baptists, contact: | For information or history about Baptists, contact: | ||
'''Baptist Historical Society'''''''''15 Fenshurst Gardens | '''Baptist Historical Society'''''''''15 Fenshurst Gardens'' Long Ashton, Bristol BS18 9AU England Internet: [http://www.baptisthistory.org.uk/basicpage.php?contents=publications&page_title=Publications <u>http://www.baptisthistory.org.uk/basicpage.php?contents=publications&page_title=Publications</u>] | ||
Long Ashton, Bristol BS18 9AU | |||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.baptisthistory.org.uk/basicpage.php?contents=publications&page_title=Publications <u>http://www.baptisthistory.org.uk/basicpage.php?contents=publications&page_title=Publications</u>] | |||
The Family History Library filmed pre-1837 Presbyterian records from the Presbyterian Historical Society. The Presbyterian and Congregational churches are now combined. For information or history about either denomination, contact: | The Family History Library filmed pre-1837 Presbyterian records from the Presbyterian Historical Society. The Presbyterian and Congregational churches are now combined. For information or history about either denomination, contact: | ||
'''United Reformed Church History Society'''''''''86 Tavistock Place<br>LondonWC1H 9RT | '''United Reformed Church History Society'''''''''86 Tavistock Place<br>LondonWC1H 9RT'' England Internet: [http://www.urc.org.uk/history_soc/ <u>http://www.urc.org.uk/history_soc/</u>] | ||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.urc.org.uk/history_soc/ <u>http://www.urc.org.uk/history_soc/</u>] | |||
For information on Presbyterians, see: | For information on Presbyterians, see: | ||
Ruston, Alan R. ''My Ancestors Were English Presbyterians/Unitarians: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1993. (FHL book 942 K23ra.) | Ruston, Alan R. ''My Ancestors Were English Presbyterians/Unitarians: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1993. (FHL book 942 K23ra.) | ||
For information on Congregationalists or Independents, see: | For information on Congregationalists or Independents, see: | ||
Clifford, D. J. H. ''My Ancestors Were Congregationalists in England & Wales: With a List of Registers''. London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1992. (FHL book 942 K23cd.) | Clifford, D. J. H. ''My Ancestors Were Congregationalists in England & Wales: With a List of Registers''. London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1992. (FHL book 942 K23cd.) | ||
==Methodists== | == Methodists == | ||
There are many forms of Methodists Societies in England: Wesleyan, Primitive, New Connexion, and so on. The Wesleyan group was the largest. They were all united under the United Methodist Church in 1932. Some groups recorded their baptisms and burials in the Church of England until the 19th century. For historical material, contact: | There are many forms of Methodists Societies in England: Wesleyan, Primitive, New Connexion, and so on. The Wesleyan group was the largest. They were all united under the United Methodist Church in 1932. Some groups recorded their baptisms and burials in the Church of England until the 19th century. For historical material, contact: | ||
'''The Methodist Archives and Research Centre | '''The Methodist Archives and Research Centre ''' JohnRylands UniversityLibrary Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH England Internet:'''[http://rylibweb.man.ac.uk/data1/dg/methodist/methlink.html <u>http://rylibweb.man.ac.uk/data1/dg/methodist/methlink.html</u>]''' | ||
JohnRylands UniversityLibrary | |||
Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH | |||
England | |||
Internet:'''[http://rylibweb.man.ac.uk/data1/dg/methodist/methlink.html <u>http://rylibweb.man.ac.uk/data1/dg/methodist/methlink.html</u>] | |||
To find the location of the birth and burial records, contact: | To find the location of the birth and burial records, contact: | ||
'''Wesley Historical Society'''''''''34 Spiceland Road | '''Wesley Historical Society'''''''''34 Spiceland Road'' Northfield, Birmingham B31 1NJ England Internet: [http://www.wesleyhistoricalsociety.org.uk/BRANCHES.htm <u>http://www.wesleyhistoricalsociety.org.uk/BRANCHES.htm</u>] | ||
Northfield, Birmingham B31 1NJ | |||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.wesleyhistoricalsociety.org.uk/BRANCHES.htm <u>http://www.wesleyhistoricalsociety.org.uk/BRANCHES.htm</u>] | |||
A useful guide for tracing Methodist ancestors is: | A useful guide for tracing Methodist ancestors is: | ||
Leary, William. ''My Ancestors Were Methodists: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' Second Edition. London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1990. (FHL book 942 D27l 1990.) | Leary, William. ''My Ancestors Were Methodists: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' Second Edition. London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1990. (FHL book 942 D27l 1990.) | ||
The Wesleyan Methodist Metropolitan Registry recorded over 10,000 Wesleyan Methodist births and baptisms that occurred between 1773 and 1838 throughout England, Wales, and elsewhere. The records and index are on microfilm at the Family History Library and in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). To find the records in the Family History Library, look in the Author/Title Search of the library Family History Library Catalogue under: | The Wesleyan Methodist Metropolitan Registry recorded over 10,000 Wesleyan Methodist births and baptisms that occurred between 1773 and 1838 throughout England, Wales, and elsewhere. The records and index are on microfilm at the Family History Library and in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). To find the records in the Family History Library, look in the Author/Title Search of the library Family History Library Catalogue under: | ||
WESLEYAN METHODIST METROPOLITAN REGISTRY AT PATERNOSTER ROW REGISTER OF BIRTHS AND BAPTISMS 1818-1841 | WESLEYAN METHODIST METROPOLITAN REGISTRY AT PATERNOSTER ROW REGISTER OF BIRTHS AND BAPTISMS 1818-1841 | ||
==Roman Catholics== | == Roman Catholics == | ||
Catholic priests usually did not keep registers before 1778 and many registers were written in Latin. Baptism registers usually include the names of the child’s sponsors or godparents. | Catholic priests usually did not keep registers before 1778 and many registers were written in Latin. Baptism registers usually include the names of the child’s sponsors or godparents. | ||
Some registers have been published by the Catholic Record Society. The Family History Library has most of these published registers, which are listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under one of the following: | Some registers have been published by the Catholic Record Society. The Family History Library has most of these published registers, which are listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under one of the following: | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CHURCH RECORDS | ENGLAND, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CHURCH RECORDS | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ||
For information on records not available at the library, contact the society at: | For information on records not available at the library, contact the society at: | ||
'''The Catholic Record Society'''''''''c/o 114 Mount Street | '''The Catholic Record Society'''''''''c/o 114 Mount Street'' London W2Y 6AH England Internet: [http://www.catholic-history.org.uk/crs/ <u>http://www.catholic-history.org.uk/crs/</u>] | ||
London W2Y 6AH | |||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.catholic-history.org.uk/crs/ <u>http://www.catholic-history.org.uk/crs/</u>] | |||
==Jews== | == Jews == | ||
Most synagogues have retained their own records. For historical information, contact: | Most synagogues have retained their own records. For historical information, contact: | ||
'''Jewish Historical Society'''''''''c/o Mocatta Library | '''Jewish Historical Society'''''''''c/o Mocatta Library'' University College, Gower Street London WC1E 6BT England Internet: [http://www.jhse.dircon.co.uk/ <u>http://www.jhse.dircon.co.uk/</u>] | ||
University College, Gower Street | |||
London WC1E 6BT | |||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.jhse.dircon.co.uk/ <u>http://www.jhse.dircon.co.uk/</u>] | |||
Isabel Mordy collected and indexed a group of English Jewish records. This is now available in the Family History Library, listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | Isabel Mordy collected and indexed a group of English Jewish records. This is now available in the Family History Library, listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | ||
ENGLAND, LONDON - JEWISH RECORDS | ENGLAND, LONDON - JEWISH RECORDS | ||
For more information, see: | For more information, see: | ||
Gandy, Michael. ''My Ancestor Was Jewish: How Can I Find Out More About Him?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1982. (FHL book 929.1089924 G153.) | Gandy, Michael. ''My Ancestor Was Jewish: How Can I Find Out More About Him?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1982. (FHL book 929.1089924 G153.) | ||
==Huguenots== | == Huguenots == | ||
This Protestant group began in France, and then spread to England as its members fled persecution. Huguenots began keeping records as early as 1567; however, few pre-1684 records still exist. | This Protestant group began in France, and then spread to England as its members fled persecution. Huguenots began keeping records as early as 1567; however, few pre-1684 records still exist. | ||
After arriving in England many Huguenots changed their names from French to English. For example, the French surname LeBlanc may have changed to White. | After arriving in England many Huguenots changed their names from French to English. For example, the French surname LeBlanc may have changed to White. | ||
Until 1754 Huguenots often recorded their marriages in both Huguenot and Church of England registers. None were recorded in Huguenot registers after that date. The Huguenot Society has transcribed and published most of their original church records. You may write to them at the following address: | Until 1754 Huguenots often recorded their marriages in both Huguenot and Church of England registers. None were recorded in Huguenot registers after that date. The Huguenot Society has transcribed and published most of their original church records. You may write to them at the following address: | ||
'''Huguenot Society'''''''''c/o University College, Gower Street | '''Huguenot Society'''''''''c/o University College, Gower Street'' London WC1E 6BT England Internet: [http://www.huguenotsociety.org.uk/history/ <u>http://www.huguenotsociety.org.uk/history/</u>] | ||
London WC1E 6BT | |||
England | |||
Internet: [http://www.huguenotsociety.org.uk/history/ <u>http://www.huguenotsociety.org.uk/history/</u>] | |||
The best way to locate published Huguenot records at the Family History Library is to look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | The best way to locate published Huguenot records at the Family History Library is to look in the Author/Title Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | ||
PUBLICATIONS OF THE HUGUENOT SOCIETY | PUBLICATIONS OF THE HUGUENOT SOCIETY | ||
==Society of Friends== | == Society of Friends == | ||
Also known as Quakers, the Society of Friends did not have appointed clergy to perform the rites of baptism. They recorded births instead. Burial registers usually include the date of death. Quakers recorded marriages to ensure their validity. | Also known as Quakers, the Society of Friends did not have appointed clergy to perform the rites of baptism. They recorded births instead. Burial registers usually include the date of death. Quakers recorded marriages to ensure their validity. | ||
The organization of Quaker religious groups, known as "meetings," includes: | The organization of Quaker religious groups, known as "meetings," includes: | ||
The preparative meeting or the local church group, is about the size of a parish. | The preparative meeting or the local church group, is about the size of a parish. | ||
The monthly meeting, made up of several preparative (local) groups, is the primary meeting for church affairs and includes records of births, marriages, and deaths. | The monthly meeting, made up of several preparative (local) groups, is the primary meeting for church affairs and includes records of births, marriages, and deaths. | ||
The quarterly meeting, comprised of two to seven monthly meetings, is similar to a diocese. | The quarterly meeting, comprised of two to seven monthly meetings, is similar to a diocese. | ||
The yearly meeting includes representatives from the quarterly meetings and Friends from other countries. | The yearly meeting includes representatives from the quarterly meetings and Friends from other countries. | ||
Quaker registers began in the late 1650s. From 1840 to 1842, the Society made digests of its records (to about 1837), which cover all English meetings. The digests are arranged first by date and then alphabetically by surname. Copies of digests and original registers are in the Family History Library. The original records are in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). | Quaker registers began in the late 1650s. From 1840 to 1842, the Society made digests of its records (to about 1837), which cover all English meetings. The digests are arranged first by date and then alphabetically by surname. Copies of digests and original registers are in the Family History Library. The original records are in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). | ||
For a valuable booklet on this subject, refer to: | For a valuable booklet on this subject, refer to: | ||
Milligan, Edward H., and Malcolm J. Thomas. ''My Ancestors Were Quakers: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1983. (FHL book 942 D27m.) | Milligan, Edward H., and Malcolm J. Thomas. ''My Ancestors Were Quakers: How Can I Find Out More About Them?'' London, England: Society of Genealogists, 1983. (FHL book 942 D27m.) | ||
==Locating Church Records== | == Locating Church Records == | ||
To find an ancestor in church records, you should know his religion and the parish where he lived. The Locality Search of the Family History Library Catalogue usually uses the parish names as given in The Imperial Gazetteer. See [[England Gazetteers]] for this source and for other help in finding a parish. | To find an ancestor in church records, you should know his religion and the parish where he lived. The Locality Search of the Family History Library Catalogue usually uses the parish names as given in The Imperial Gazetteer. See [[England Gazetteers|England Gazetteers]] for this source and for other help in finding a parish. | ||
Local residents sometimes referred to their parish by the name of the parish patron saint (such as St. John) rather than by the location of the parish. In cities where there is more than one parish, the Family History Library Catalogue uses the patron saint’s name with the name of the city to identify records of different parishes. | Local residents sometimes referred to their parish by the name of the parish patron saint (such as St. John) rather than by the location of the parish. In cities where there is more than one parish, the Family History Library Catalogue uses the patron saint’s name with the name of the city to identify records of different parishes. | ||
Many parishes had "chapelries" that served a small area within the parish boundaries. Chapelries kept separate registers. Their records are usually listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under the parish with which the chapelry is associated. | Many parishes had "chapelries" that served a small area within the parish boundaries. Chapelries kept separate registers. Their records are usually listed in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under the parish with which the chapelry is associated. | ||
Some sources that describe the location or survival of church records are: | Some sources that describe the location or survival of church records are: | ||
''Lists of Non-parochial Registers and Records in the Custody of the Registrar-General of Births, Deaths, and Marriages''. London, England: Her Majesty’s Stationery Office, 1859. (FHL book Q 942 B4pro Volume 42.) This volume from the Public Record Office series, Lists and Indexes, series tells which pre-1837 nonconformist parish registers are in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). | ''Lists of Non-parochial Registers and Records in the Custody of the Registrar-General of Births, Deaths, and Marriages''. London, England: Her Majesty’s Stationery Office, 1859. (FHL book Q 942 B4pro Volume 42.) This volume from the Public Record Office series, Lists and Indexes, series tells which pre-1837 nonconformist parish registers are in the Public Record Office (see the "[[England Archives and Libraries|<u>Archives and Libraries</u>]]" section of this outline for the address). | ||
Humphery-Smith, Cecil R., ''The Phillimore Atlas and Index of Parish Registers''. Second Edition. Chichester, Sussex, England: Phillimore & Co., 1995. (FHL book 942 E7pa 1995.) This gives the location and repository address for each parish register. | Humphery-Smith, Cecil R., ''The Phillimore Atlas and Index of Parish Registers''. Second Edition. Chichester, Sussex, England: Phillimore & Co., 1995. (FHL book 942 E7pa 1995.) This gives the location and repository address for each parish register. | ||
''Parish Register Abstract''. England: House of Commons, 1833. (FHL book Q 942 X2gbc; film 599640 items 1–2.) This book shows which pre-1813 parish registers existed in 1831. | ''Parish Register Abstract''. England: House of Commons, 1833. (FHL book Q 942 X2gbc; film 599640 items 1–2.) This book shows which pre-1813 parish registers existed in 1831. | ||
Steel, Donald J., et al. ''National Index of Parish Registers.'' 13 Volumes. Chichester, England: Phillimore & Company, Limited, 1968–. (FHL book 942 V26ste.) This index helps identify church records and congregations. Not all counties are published yet. | Steel, Donald J., et al. ''National Index of Parish Registers.'' 13 Volumes. Chichester, England: Phillimore & Company, Limited, 1968–. (FHL book 942 V26ste.) This index helps identify church records and congregations. Not all counties are published yet. | ||
Youngs, Frederic A., Jr. ''Guide to the Local Administrative Units''. London, England: Royal Historical Society, 1979, 1991. (FHL 942 C4rg no. 10, 17.) This guide helps identify Church of England ecclesiastical jurisdictions and gives an outline history of changes to the parishes. | Youngs, Frederic A., Jr. ''Guide to the Local Administrative Units''. London, England: Royal Historical Society, 1979, 1991. (FHL 942 C4rg no. 10, 17.) This guide helps identify Church of England ecclesiastical jurisdictions and gives an outline history of changes to the parishes. | ||
=== Records at the Family History Library === | === Records at the Family History Library === | ||
The Family History Library has many church records. The most common are: | The Family History Library has many church records. The most common are: | ||
* Parish registers from their beginning up to the nineteenth century or later | *Parish registers from their beginning up to the nineteenth century or later | ||
* Bishops’ transcripts from 1598 up to the mid- 19th century | *Bishops’ transcripts from 1598 up to the mid- 19th century | ||
* Transcripts of parish registers | *Transcripts of parish registers | ||
* Parish chest records | *Parish chest records | ||
* Registers of nonconformist churches to 1837 (sometimes later) | *Registers of nonconformist churches to 1837 (sometimes later) | ||
You can determine whether the library has records, denominational histories, or religious society journals from your ancestor’s parish by looking in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | You can determine whether the library has records, denominational histories, or religious society journals from your ancestor’s parish by looking in the Place Search of the Family History Library Catalogue under: | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CHURCH RECORDS | ENGLAND, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CHURCH RECORDS | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH RECORDS | ||
ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH HISTORY | ENGLAND, [COUNTY] - CHURCH HISTORY | ||
ENGLAND- CHURCH HISTORY | ENGLAND- CHURCH HISTORY | ||
ENGLAND- PERIODICALS | ENGLAND- PERIODICALS | ||
The Family History Library is always adding records to its collection. The catalo is updated periodically. If you need a record that is not at the library, you may write to the minister or to a repository to request a search. | The Family History Library is always adding records to its collection. The catalo is updated periodically. If you need a record that is not at the library, you may write to the minister or to a repository to request a search. | ||
=== Records Not at the Family History Library === | === Records Not at the Family History Library === | ||
Since England has no single repository of church records, the current location of records depends on several factors. Some counties have more than one approved repository. A few records remain with the parish minister. To determine the location of the original parish registers, use The Phillimore ''Atlas and Index of Parish Registers'' (see "Locating Church Records" in this section). | Since England has no single repository of church records, the current location of records depends on several factors. Some counties have more than one approved repository. A few records remain with the parish minister. To determine the location of the original parish registers, use The Phillimore ''Atlas and Index of Parish Registers'' (see "Locating Church Records" in this section). | ||
The following types of repositories often answer mail requests for information: | The following types of repositories often answer mail requests for information: | ||
'''County record office.'''Contact the county record office to determine the procedure for searching records. | '''County record office.'''Contact the county record office to determine the procedure for searching records. | ||
'''Local parish.'''Parishes will generally answer correspondence when a small donation is enclosed. Ask that your request be forwarded if the records are now in a repository. To find parish addresses, consult a church directory (see the "[[England Church Directories|<u>Church Directories</u>]]" section of this outline). | '''Local parish.'''Parishes will generally answer correspondence when a small donation is enclosed. Ask that your request be forwarded if the records are now in a repository. To find parish addresses, consult a church directory (see the "[[England Church Directories|<u>Church Directories</u>]]" section of this outline). | ||
'''Other archives.'''Some church records are in libraries, museums, or other repositories. | '''Other archives.'''Some church records are in libraries, museums, or other repositories. | ||
When writing to England for genealogical information, be as concise as possible. Do not add unnecessary history about the family you are researching. If staff members at the archive cannot look up the requested information, ask them to send you a list of recommended researchers. Send the following with your request: | When writing to England for genealogical information, be as concise as possible. Do not add unnecessary history about the family you are researching. If staff members at the archive cannot look up the requested information, ask them to send you a list of recommended researchers. Send the following with your request: | ||
* An international money order for the search fee and postage or a donation to the church | *An international money order for the search fee and postage or a donation to the church | ||
* The full name and sex of the person sought | *The full name and sex of the person sought | ||
* The names of the parents, if known | *The names of the parents, if known | ||
* The event you are looking for, with approximate date and place | *The event you are looking for, with approximate date and place | ||
* Request for a complete copy (or photocopy) of the original record | *Request for a complete copy (or photocopy) of the original record | ||
If your request is not answered, write to the local family history society and ask if one of their members would do the search for you (see the "[[England Societies|<u>Societies</u>]]" section of this outline). | If your request is not answered, write to the local family history society and ask if one of their members would do the search for you (see the "[[England Societies|<u>Societies</u>]]" section of this outline). | ||
Another way to access some church records and indexes is through the Internet. On the Internet there are lists of people who volunteer to search various types of records for certain areas free of charge. You can locate these lists through the GENUKI Web site at: | Another way to access some church records and indexes is through the Internet. On the Internet there are lists of people who volunteer to search various types of records for certain areas free of charge. You can locate these lists through the GENUKI Web site at: | ||
[http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng <u>www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng</u>] | [http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng <u>www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng</u>] | ||
From the above site: | From the above site: | ||
Click [County of your choice]. | Click [County of your choice]. | ||
Click '''Genealogy.''' | Click '''Genealogy.''' | ||
Click '''Look-up Exchange'''. | Click '''Look-up Exchange'''. | ||
=== Search Strategies === | === Search Strategies === | ||
As you search church records, use the following strategies: | |||
*Search parish registers, bishops’ transcripts, and all other available records for the time period. | |||
*Note all entries (including burials) in the parish registers for the surname (unless the name is very common). | |||
*Note gaps or missing pages in the record. (This may suggest that you should search alternative records for that time period.) | |||
*If the church records do not contain enough information, search for hints (residence, occupation, and so on) that suggest other records to search. | |||
*If you find little or no mention of your family in parish records, search neighbouring parishes and nonconformist records. | |||
*If you do not find your ancestor in church records, use the "Records Selection Table" at the beginning of this outline to find another record to search. | |||
*Search both parish registers and bishops’ transcripts, as either may contain entries missing from the other. | |||
<br> | |||
=== Online Training from the Family History Library for British Church Records === | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The Church’s Family History Library has been providing classes to patrons for many years. In the past, a patron would have to travel to the Library to take advantage of these classes, but no longer. The Library will begin testing different methods of exporting these classes to patrons who reside outside of the Salt Lake City area. The first method to be tested is a set of five lessons in a classroom setting in a video format. These lessons are now available on [http://www.familysearch.org/ www.familysearch.org] and cover the basics of getting started with family history research in England. Go to FamilySearch and select Education under the Family History Library menu. The five lessons are called:</span> | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"></span>'''<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">[http://www.familysearch.org/eng/Library/Education/frameset_education.asp?PAGE=education_research_series_online.asp%3FActiveTab=2 Family History Research Series Online]</span>''' | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lesson 1: Research Overview</span> | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lesson 2: Census Records</span> | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lesson 3: Civil Registration</span> | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lesson 4: Church Records</span> | |||
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lesson 5: Find Your Ancestors</span> | |||
<br> | |||
=== External Links === | |||
*http://www.genealogylinks.net/marriages/uk/england/index.html | |||
*http://www.genealogylinks.net/marriages/uk/england/index.html | |||
*http://www.coraweb.com.au/ukbdm.htm | *http://www.coraweb.com.au/ukbdm.htm | ||
[[Category:England]] | [[Category:England]] | ||