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Obtaining UK Birth, Marriage & Death certificate copies |
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For events that occurred after 1837 (when registration was started) it is quite easy to purchase copies of certificates.
The first requirement is to know the reference number of the certificate you want. The first place to look for these is the free web site www.freebmd.org.uk. They have excellent coverage, at this time, of certificates from 1837 to about 1920. You simply use their search page, entering as much or as little information as necessary to find your ancestor. Be aware though that incorrect spelling, either on the original index pages or the transcribed computer list, is a common issue. Be flexible in your search criteria.
If you need a certificate for a later date, you need to search through individual index pages. These are alphabetical pages, each set covering three months (a 'quarter') of each year. They can be searched on www.ancestry.co.uk, if you have a subscription. Otherwise you will need to find a library or similar institution that has microfiche copies.
Once you have the reference, something like
"Birth - SMITH, John, Canterbury district, volume 2a, page 487, Dec quarter 1858"
you can go to the General Register Office web site and order a copy. The address is https://www.gro.gov.uk/gro/content/certificates/Login.asp
You need to register, using their link at the top right-hand corner. It is straight-forward and free though.
Once registered you can proceed to login and place your order. Each certificate costs 7 pounds, and is emailed to you within a couple of weeks. |
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