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Can't find a registered death in Scotland

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Heather

Heather Report 4 Oct 2006 10:23

Hello. I'm hoping someone can help me. My great grandfather was killed in 1940 in the Firth of Tye, Scotland during a fishing trip. His ship hit a mine and sank and his body was never found. I have the actually date that this happened, but I can't find him in Scotlands People at all (even up to 1955). How long does someone have to be declared missing presumed dead for a death can be registered??

Janet 693215

Janet 693215 Report 4 Oct 2006 11:34

In England a person has to be missing for 7 years before they are declared dead but I don't think a death certificate would be issued. I guess a declaration of some sort would be issued though because next of kin couldn't claim the estate etc without some sort of 'proof' Perhaps you could try copies of the local paper for more details. Don't forget there may have been an inquest or enquiry into the accident.

Janet 693215

Janet 693215 Report 4 Oct 2006 11:42

Just looked at the date. Aaah, good luck. The press did not publish details of civilian casualties or deaths during the war because it was felt it could affect morale. I have a similar problem. After the war there were lots of papers who recounted tales of what had happened in their local vacinity though. Does he appear on the commonwealth war graves site www.cwgc.org.uk My civilian gt aunt does, even though she supposedly died as a result of an accident by our lot.(Officially died due to 'war operations')

Heather

Heather Report 4 Oct 2006 11:48

Hello. Yes he does appear on the CWGC site which has been helpful in giving me an extact date. I was trying to find something a little more 'official' to finish of my dossier on him. Ho hum.

Georgina

Georgina Report 4 Oct 2006 12:49

Heather have you contacted the GRO in Scotland & asked their advice? Georgina.

Janet 693215

Janet 693215 Report 4 Oct 2006 13:46

The info on the CWGC site is supplied to them from the local authority who I believe compiled the info on war deaths. Perhaps it's time to contact the local archive. I'm sure they'd have more info.

Mhairi Queen of Scots

Mhairi Queen of Scots Report 4 Oct 2006 15:04

Have you tried doing a free search of the scotsman archives? I know its already been stated that they dont usually mention civilian war deaths but you never know, its always worth a try. www.scotsman*com Mhairi

Heather

Heather Report 4 Oct 2006 19:33

Thanks for your help. I've just dropped the Scottish GRO an query so hopefully they will point me in the right direction. Thanks again :o)

MarionfromScotland

MarionfromScotland Report 4 Oct 2006 21:42

Hi Heather Did you mean Firth of Tay? Marion