Explore how the lives of your ancestors were shaped by traditions of cultures
and faiths and how communities maintained and celebrated their beliefs.
For centuries, the patterns of our ancestors’ lives were shaped by traditions of
culture and faith, and they left a rich legacy of documents, registers and
possessions. This wide-ranging guide shows how to use religious records of
life’s milestones – such as christening, confirmation, marriage and burial – in
family history research, drawing on material in the National Archives and
elsewhere. It covers the diverse faiths of Britain – Church of England,
Catholic, Noncomformist, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and others – and suggests the
best sources for each, from the earliest records to more recent times.
Full of practical advice for all levels of experience, the book offers solutions
for common problems and advice on how to find out more. It also explores how and
where communities maintained their beliefs, from celebrations and festivals to
religious buildings and schools.
Abi Husainy, records specialist in South Asian history at The National Archives,
contributes a chapter exploring the establishment of Hindu, Muslim and Sikh
cultures and faiths in Britain since the 1830s, and points to numerous record
sources in the UK and Asia.
Contents:
Forword
Introduction
1. The Historical Background
2. Life Stages and Religious Records
3. Denominations and their Records
4. Movement for the Sake of Religion
5. Catholic and Jacobite Records
6. Huguenot Records
7. Jewish Records
8. South Asian Cultures and Faiths
9. Sources and Records
Useful Addresses and Websites
Further Reading
Index
