Genealogy Chat

I have found a possible relly on the National Archives, It is a seaman's record but it will cost 10 quid to get a copy. Anyone know what info is likely to be on it? Is it worth the money? [I've got a medals card for another relly which I found very disappointing for the money.]

Hi Krissie, Is this BT154 by any chance? If so then it's a list of effects of a seaman who died at sea. It shows the Date the items/money was received in the office; Port from which received; Name of Ship; Official number; Description of Voyage; No. of Crew exc. Master; Name of Deceased, Rating on Board and Age; Date, Place and Cause of death; Net Amount due to Estate and Effects, how disposed of; Date when Account was sent to Board of Trade; Remarks. A very kind lady from here looked up this record (index first which is BT153) and it showed the crew members of the boat which sank in 1871 with the loss of all hands, useful for me as it confirmed some details. Hope this helps, Christine

Thanks Woody, I don't think it is the same. The reference code is BT372. The info that you can see for free refers to 'Discharge A numbers' and 'covering dates 1913 - 1972'. [Really helpful!] Do you know what this might be?

i downloaded a seamans record, it gave description of him, promotions, ship sailed on, dates etc, conduct etc, place and date of birth in fact was very detailed.

These are called seamen's pouches. Contents vary (I've never seen one myself) but this leaflet will tell you about them and has an example: http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/catalogue/rdleaflet.asp?sLeafletID=128

There are a lot of Seamen's Register items on Documents Online - i.e. only £3.50. They give a physical description, a (alleged - not always reliable) DoB & PoB, and a list of which ships they served on, when, and in what capacity - and what the conduct was deemed to be like. Also gives pension info. Christine