Step 3: Using Censuses
What is a Census?
In the United Kingdom, a census is conducted every ten years to gather detailed information about the population. Since 1801, with the exception of 1941, censuses have been taken on a designated census day, providing a snapshot of the nation's demographic, social, and economic characteristics at that moment.
The primary goal of the census is to offer a comprehensive overview of the population's makeup, which serves various purposes including government planning, policy-making, resource allocation, and research.
For family and house historians, census records dating from 1841 to 1921 hold particular significance, as they offer valuable insights into past generations and their lives. While earlier census summaries from 1801 to 1831 were created and later destroyed, the full censuses from 1841 onwards provide detailed information that aids in tracing family history- and house history!
What can the census tell me about my house history?
Censuses from 1841 to 1921 can help the house historian understand much about the house and local area:
Occupants: The census records list the names of the individuals residing in the house during the time of the census. This allows you to trace the occupants over different decades, providing a snapshot of who lived there at various points in history. (Note - it won’t tell you the property owner)
Demographic details: Along with names, the census typically includes demographic details such as age, gender, marital status, occupation, and sometimes even birthplace. This information can help you paint a picture of the residents' lives and occupations, giving insight into their social and economic status.
Family relationships: The census often indicates the relationships between household members, such as whether they are listed as head of household, spouse, child, or lodger. This can help you reconstruct family trees and understand the dynamics of the households over time.
Residential patterns: By examining multiple census records, you can track patterns of residency, such as how long families lived in the house, whether there were frequent changes in occupants, or if the same family resided there for generations.
Changes in the neighborhood: Census records can also provide information about the surrounding community, including the occupations and demographics of neighbors, local businesses, and other landmarks that may have existed nearby.
What can I find online?
For the house historian, I would recommend using the address search feature on Findmypast. This makes finding houses much more straightforward. However, you can also use other census providers such as Ancestry.