Genealogy Chat

Please can anyone tell me if the IGI is complete when you view it at Record Offices, I know someone said they keep putting different things on on the on line one. Or is it possible to buy the complete IGI from anywhere on disk? Just wondered as I am struggling very much with the birth of my elusive Mr Nowell, and one or two others Thanks for any advice. Marilyn

The IGI is NOT complete anywhere. There are many thousands missing off the IGI and counties like Northants and countries like Ireland have a very poor coverage. Only 3 of my Irish ancestors are on the IGI out of about 300 on my Irish tree. Scotland has good coverage. Not all the bishops allowed their registers to be filmed by the LDS due to the fact that the LDS enfold all into their church but I am sure you know that. Janet

Thanks Janet and Gwyneth Just though I might stand a better chance at a Record Office. Do you know what Bishops Transcripts are by any chance, are they transcribed parish records. Thanks for replying Marilyn

The IGI is updated from time to time and different versions may be available on fiche at particular Record Offices. However.... I think what people may have been referring to is Parish Registers, which is where the IGI transcribed information is taken from. The registers sometimes contain some wonderful gems of added information. eg from a 1830s baptism record we found that the child's father was a Polish refugee from the 4th Regt of Foot. Gwyn

Marilyn Yes, Bishops Transcripts are basically transcribed Parish Registers and as such should not be treated as Primary Sources as in the transcription there can be errors and so should always be checked against the originals but they are nevertheless a very good source of info as I have used them many times. I do try always to check the originals and have found a few mistakes. And yes the original registers can contain many gems and sometimes also contain siblings not on the transcripts and I found an important sibling this way, living in the same small hamlet, he did not appear on the Transcript yet he bugged me because I was sure he was family, and a look at the original register in the CRO confirmed I was right so the message is clear. ALWAYS Check the original registers. Janet

Thanks Janet, that has helped me might be able to find some of those somewhere. Thanks again

Thanks Alan I look at the IGI on line quite often but must catch it at the wrong time cos it always seems the same to me, most of my rellies are in the Manchester area with a few in dotted in other counties and there are lots I cannot find on line. Was hoping there might be an easier way, but never mind, will keep looking. Thanks again Marilyn