Census Returns
The 1911 Census
This census was a huge difference to earlier ones and has excited family historians. It was completed by the householder and asks some insightful (for genealogy) questions. It was, however, at the height of the Suffragette period, so many women refused to answer the questions and often spoiled the return. The 1911 census was taken on 2 April 1911 and gave the population of England & Wales as 36,003,276. The example shown is for Winston Churchill and his family.
The elements are:
1 - Schedule Number
Unlike previous censes, this one was completed by the householder, so the schedule was entered to aid the reconciliation of returns.
2 - Name
Assuming that the householder was illiterate, we finally have the 'family' spelling of the name and all the first names. It is not uncommon for nicknames to appear on this census.
3 - Relationship to Head of Family
Self-explanatory. There is even guidance as to the entries.
4 - Age at last birthday
As before, this was split into male and female lists, though many heads of household didn't read this and errors and crossed out entries do exist.
5 - Marital Status
Again, the census explains what to place in this column. It is part of a wider 'Particulars of Marriage' section.
6 - Married Women section
A new section that asks the number of completed years of marriage, number of children - born alive, living and died!
7 - Personal Occupation
This asks for quite detailed descriptions, in a small area. In the example above, 'Prime Minister' fits quite well!
8 - Details of Occupation
The Industry or Service, and employment status (employer, employee, etc.), and if working from home were required in these three columns.
9 - Birthplace
Detailed instructions demonstrate what is required in this section, and most people seem to have completed it correctly.
10 - Nationality/Languages spoken
This was more of a nationalistic question, inquiring about Irish, Welsh and Scottish nationalism, but does, of course, collect other information.
11 - Infirmity
The politically incorrect column showing 'deformities' and disabilities. This must have been difficult for the family to 'report on', else they could also have filled something vindictively or jokingly! This was covered when the census was first released.
Not Shown - Address & Signature
In most cases, this form also shows the Postal Address of the family and the signature of the head of the family. There is also a tally for the number of males, females and people in the house.
