Genealogy Research

Key dates for records in England & Wales

1 July 1837 - Introduction of General Civil Registration of Births, Marriages and Deaths in England and Wales

Births

• Pre-1875 – an estimated 6 to 10% of births NOT registered
• 1875 more rigorous enforcement of compulsory registration
• September quarter 1837 to June quarter 1911 -- only first two full forenames, subsequent initials, registration district and reference number
• September quarter 1911 to present -- only first forename, subsequent initials, registration district and number but also includes mother´s maiden surname.

Marriages

• September quarter 1837 to December quarter 1911 -- only first two full forenames, subsequent initials, registration district and ref number
• March quarter 1912 to September quarter 1962 -- if female was previously married, index shows maiden name and married name
• March quarter 1912 to present day -- surname of spouse added

Deaths

• 1875 enforcement of compulsory registration
• September quarter 1837 to June quarter 1911 -- only first two full forenames, subsequent initials, registration district and reference number
• September quarter 1911 onwards - only first forename, subsequent initials, registration district and number
• September quarter 1837 to December quarter 1865 -- no age given
• March quarter 1866 to March quarter 1969 -- age at death given
• June quarter 1969 to present -- exact date of birth given