Findmypast is thrilled to announce a new project to release the 1939 Register, which will see 40 million wartime British records published online within the next two years.

In the most anticipated family history development since the 1911 census, findmypast are working in association with The National Archives to provide the only complete overview of the population between 1922 and 1950.

The 1939 Register: An invaluable resource

The 1939 register was taken on 29 September 1939 by the British Government, shortly after the outbreak of WW2. It recorded personal details of individuals in order to issue identity cards and ration books, and later formed the basis of the National Health Service’s records.

New possibilities for research

Since the 1931 census was destroyed, and there was none taken in 1941, the 1939 Register provides an invaluable ‘census substitute’ for historians of the more recent past. This fantastic new resource will open up entirely new avenues for genealogical research.

 

Annelies Van Den Belt, CEO of DC Thomson Family History said: “This announcement is great news not just for British family historians and those with British relatives, but for anyone with an interest in history itself; providing a fascinating snapshot of the country as it stood on the edge of the most widespread conflict in human history.”

Mary Gledhill, Commercial Director, at The National Archives, added: “The National Archives is delighted to be working with DC Thomson Family History to open up this unique record collection to the world, allowing history enthusiasts to discover more about the people at the outbreak of the Second World War.

In the absence of a 1931 and 1941 census, this collection is all the more valuable to family historians trying to trace their ancestors.”

 

Do show your enthusiasm for this fantastic project by registering your interest HERE. We’ll keep you updated with any developments around this exciting opportunity.