It was the start of WW2 and everyone was to be counted. At what must have been a terrifying time for so many, a record of the civilian population was created which, 80-odd years later, was to become a major genealogical resource.
The 1939 register is often referred to as a ‘snapshot of the population on the eve of war’ and, today, it provides an invaluable, rich source of information for amateur family historians.
In this episode, I look at why and how it was created – but, more importantly, how you can use it as a good starting point for your research.
Obviously, it’s not the only place to start your genealogical journey, but it’s comparatively recent (both in terms of when it was released and the period it covers) and may even contain details of people you have met or heard of… so, it’s a pretty good place to look at first. It’s also a handy starting point when you’re putting podcasts into a logical order!
Recommended drinks to accompany this episode: Just a cup of boiling water. Tea rationing didn’t end until 1952.
Recommended biscuits to accompany this episode: Carrot biscuits – a wartime delicacy. Google for a recipe.
Amateur Family History Podcast 