1861 Census Methodology

[sonofthom]

Does anyone know what methodology was used for collecting census data in 1861? For example was a form issued to each household for completion by the head of the household as today or were individuals employed to knock doors and ask the relevant questions, or what? I am trying to establish the accuracy of employment descriptions in this census as to whether they are likely to be very accurate or just generic. I presume that the same approach would have applied throughout the UK although my particular interest is in Edinburgh.

[Jebber]

I can only assume Scotland was the same as the rest of  the UK, which was schedules delivered to each household then collected by  the enumerators, they then transcribed them into  their books. They may have had to assist some people with the firm filling. Plenty of opportunity for errors to occur.

[arthurk]

This is the Act of Parliament relating to the 1861 Census in Scotland - Section V describes the process:

http://www.histpop.org/ohpr/servlet//View?path=Browse/Legislation%20(by%20geography)/Scotland&active=yes&mno=4013

The same site has the equivalent act for England.

[sonofthom]

Thank you; I think that I now have a clear understanding of the process.