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Unlocking the UK Census – A Treasure Trove for Family Historians
For anyone researching their family history, the census is one of the most valuable record sets available. Taken every ten years, it allows us to trace families over time, watch children grow up, see occupations change, and follow movements around the country. Here we explore how to make the most of UK census records —…
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Why 1837 Matters So Much in Family History Research
If you spend any time researching family history in England and Wales, you very quickly come across a key date: 1837. It’s one of those dividing lines that separates two very different worlds of record keeping — and understanding it can make your research far more effective. Before 1837: Parish Registers Prior to 1 July…
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Service Records and The London Gazette: Exploring the Military History of Your Ancestors
Military records are among the richest and most revealing sources available to family historians. If your ancestor served in the armed forces, there may be detailed documentation that tells you far more than a census ever could — sometimes including physical description, medical history, promotions, disciplinary issues, and even the exact battles they experienced. This…
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Citations in Family History
A citation tells you where you found a piece of information. It’s an important part of family history because it helps you and others know where the facts came from. Here are some basics to help you get started. What is a Citation? – A short note about the source of your information.– Like a…