Useful information and tips on searching in England and Wales
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