Genealogy Chat

Hi there, I have a sneeky suspicion a relative of mine was adopted at birth. I think this from the records, is there a way of finding out?

I think adoption began in 1927. There would be no official record.

Quite often someone in the wider family circle would take on the upbringing of a child.
The child's name may or may not change to that of that family, although it may already be that surname already.

Do you want to give a few details for your suspicions and any records found?

Gwyn

Thelma is quite correct ..................

official adoption records began in mid-1927.


before that, adoptions were unofficial, often by members of the same family ............. or from an orphanage, workhouse etc.


Some orphanages may have kept records ............. but in general, it is impossible to determine whether a child has been adopted, or by whom.



It is also important to note that records on adoption after 1927 are opened only fro the adoptee.

Formal adoption, as we now know it, did not exist in England and Wales until 1927. Before then, adoptions were usually informal. In a few cases there was some legal documentation, but no central register.
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/records/looking-for-person/adoption.htm

The corresponding law for Scotland took effect in 1930. I'm not familiar with the English law, but the Scottish law allowed for the adoption of minors, which at that time meant persons under the age of 21.
I'ld be surprized if the English law was difft in this respect, but I don't know.
So even if an informal adoption had taken place in 1910, there might be a later formalization of that adoption.
However, I don't know how much access the general public has to the GRO's Adopted Children Register.

Hello Michael and welcome to the Community boards.






Note. I will let Michael know that he has replies to his query. :-)