Can’t find birth record!

[MrsS2012]

I can’t seem to find a birth record for my great great grandfather, Portman Smith.

According to other records I have found he was born around 1865/66 in Mile End, London or Ratcliff, London. Place of birth varies according to the different census records.

Have searched on GRO but getting no results. Portman isn’t a common name so I’m surprised I can’t find anything.

Any help appreciated!

[rosie99]

It was not unusual for births not to be registered prior to the 1870's when they tightened up the rules on registration.

[MrsS2012]

Oh really, I wasn’t aware of that. I have the names of his siblings so currently trying to look them up, thinking it might be easier to search if I have his mothers maiden name… but trying to find a Smith in London… hundreds of results   

[rosie99]

It was made the responsibility of the parents to register the birth c1874, prior to that I believe it was down to the registrar to locate them

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/Vict/37-38/88/enacted

[decor]

Is this a Jewish family? Or of Jewish descent?

[rosie99]

SMITH, EDWARD       mmn OWEN 
GRO Reference: 1875  Mar Quarter in STEPNEY  Volume 01C  Page 475

SMITH, REBECCA       OWEN 
GRO Reference: 1872  Sep Quarter in STEPNEY  Volume 01C  Page 457

 

[MrsS2012]

Is this a Jewish family? Or of Jewish descent?

Not that I am aware.. but I do have Jewish in me according to my DNA test so possibly!
What makes you ask?

[MrsS2012]

SMITH, EDWARD       mmn OWEN 
GRO Reference: 1875  Mar Quarter in STEPNEY  Volume 01C  Page 475

SMITH, REBECCA       OWEN 
GRO Reference: 1872  Sep Quarter in STEPNEY  Volume 01C  Page 457

 

Helpful! Thank you!

[decor]

Is this a Jewish family? Or of Jewish descent?

Not that I am aware.. but I do have Jewish in me according to my DNA test so possibly!
What makes you ask?

The first name Isaac...and I found this:

SMITH, SAMUEL       COHEN 
GRO Reference: 1870  S Quarter in MILE END OLD TOWN  Volume 01C  Page 497