Birth - historical searches-
Since 1538 each parish in England has kept a register of
baptisms which have taken place in the parish. Although many of the
earliest registers have not survived, registers are an important
source of information prior to civil registration in 1837.
Church records
Local Studies collections contain church records not only for
the established church but also non conformist churches. The Local
Studies centre at Touchstones Rochdale also has the St Catherine's
House Index on microfilm.
Newspapers
Newspapers often carry birth annoucements. Each Local Studies
Library holds microfilmed copies of local newspapers for their
area. These includes: The Rochdale Observer 1856 onwards, Heywood
Advertiser 1850 onwards, Middleton Guardian as well as various
other local newspapers.