Parish records - General info sought

[bagpuss]

Hello fellow researchers,

     I wonder if anyone could answer my query?  I have finally obtained the birth cert for my ancestor only to find that his mother was unmarried and there is no fathers name entered.

     Was it normal for fathers name to be ommitted if the couple weren't married.
Would the fathers name (if she chose to divulge it!) be recorded on parish records, the year is 1855 in Ross.

     I find it hard to believe that this woman had 3 children all before marriage. One seems almost the norm!! but three

     When she does marry- 1858, her husband is 21, was this the legal minimum age back then?  If so the 3 children may still be his, but as the eldest is 6, its a bit doubtful.

Any insights would be great - my brain hurts

Sue

[casalguidi]

Hi Sue

Yes, it was usual for the father's details to be omitted from birth certificates but it is possible (just possible) that there is something more in the baptism register.

Whilst it was possible to marry under the age of 21, parental consent was required.  Often, 21 on a marriage certificate of around that date just means 21 or over.

Hope that helps clarify things just a bit.

Casalguidi

[bagpuss]

Thanks fellow insomniac,

     I guess I'm just clutching at straws and don't want to admit I've come to a dead end.  I know that some parishes kept a record of illegits, and even employed people to find out fathers names! The local midwife was usually the best placed to find out that sort of info.

     Do you know if the Baptism records for Ross are available online or does it mean a visit to the Local Records Office?  I could do with a time machine.  Think I'll invent one and rent it out at a reasonable price - I think I may make quite a few bob!!

Thanks again
Sue

[casalguidi]

Hi Sue

It looks like your "wanted" baptisms might be a bit too late for the IGI coverate at http://www.familysearch.org

http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~hughwallis/IGIBatchNumbers/CountyHereford.htm#PageTitle

You might get luck with a BVRI2 look up though - see parishes covered:

http://www.genoot.com/downloads/BVRI2/

Good luck

Casalguidi

Yes .............. I've had that dreadful flu and can't sleep for coughing!

[bagpuss]

Thanks again casalguidi,

     Very much appreciated, I will try the above.

Sue

ps  Hope you get well soon