Large Industry Worker Records

If the census or family tales inform you that your ancestor worked in an industry then there may be additional records available to you.

Firstly try to find if the particular firm is still in existence. Many old firms have their own museums with records carefully preserved.

Staff outings or special occasions were popular events for the local photographer to capture.

These photos  and photos of the factory building are often still available.

If the firm is closed try top find out who has taken over the business. Once again they may have preserved the records.

The next step is to check with the local museum who may well know if there are any records and if so where they are kept.

The local records office may have some details . It's worth an E mail or phone call to find out.

Trade Unions kept very accurate and detailed records so it's worth contacting the relevant union.

Many Unions have recognised the value of their records and often have a specific officer whose job is to maintain them and deal with queries.

Specific trades may have their own company or guild for master craftsmen which may have membership records.

Many of the skilled industrial workers would have apprentices that would be bound by indentures. These may be recorded in the National Archives or County Records.

Old maps may be interesting to check the size of the factory, the features of the surrounding area and the route that your ancestor had to follow to get to work.

Don't forget that if the building is still standing a modern picture would be great in your family history log.