Genealogy Chat

I have a birth certificate which states the child was born in The Workhouse, Salford (Manchester) in 1845. The 'informant' was the Master of the Workhouse and there is no father's name shown. (I know his father's name from his marriage certificate). His mother's name is shown as Ellen Owen and there is no other name (ie. maiden name). Does this mean she was unmarried or was it normal not to show a maiden name? Also is is likely she would be in the workhouse if she was married? I am totally confused by all this and I'm now not convinced it's the correct certificate. Can anyone advise me? Thanks Lynne

Hi Lynne, I think it is usual to assume where there is only one surname for the mother that the mother was unmarried, as I am sure the maiden name is always given when the mother is married, and any other surnames if she has been married more than once. I think unmarried mothers often found themselves in the workhouse to have their babies, because medical care had to be given to "inmates", saving them the cost of a midwife etc. Debbie

Married couples were put in the workhouse, but I think males and females were separated, even when family. Maybe this is why the father was left off?

I too have acertificate for my grandmother that states born in workhouse mother mary elizabeth lewis and it has been registered by the master of the workhouse in gloucester I think it was usual for the master to register all births and deaths when he went to town. I understand that the record office in my case gloucester will have the records with possibly more detail when I can get there I amhoping they will be able to give me some more info. there is a good site for workhouses some of them have online records Ihave just forgotten www try a google search its tooooo late must go to bed good luck sandra

Thanks for all your replies. From what you have said, it looks like I've got the wrong person. Oh well, just another 'incorrect' certificate to add to my collection!! Lynne