Parish Registers

Many parish registers were begun during the sixteenth century and are a rich source of family history information. We are able to search any Yorkshire parish register that might need consultation during the research. In many instances, register entries may be photocopied to provide you with corroborative evidence of your ancestors.

Probate Indexes

Wills can often provide the vital evidence to complete a family history puzzle. They give the nature of relationships within generations and if they have an inventory of goods and chattels can provide a wonderful insight into the family’s social status at that time. The Borthwick Institute of Historical Research at York have indexes starting from the mid-fourteenth century through to 1858 for wills proved in the Prerogative Court of York (PCY).

After 1858, wills are held in the Principal Probate Registry at London and can be ordered for a small fee.