Following on from Episode 13, this podcast delves into the places your ancestors called home around 1910.

If you have searched the 1911 census, there’s a separate record set that really takes this to the next level by adding detail to the PLACES where your family would have lived.

The Valuation Office Survey took place between 1910 and 1915, and each property or piece of land was assessed, valued and described in volumes of ‘field books’ which are available for family historians to browse.

These small windows on the past can be viewed at the National Archives at Kew – and make for a great reason to visit the archives, and to experience the heart of the country’s official records.

In this episode, I talk about how you can find the field books and zoom in on particular houses, farms, buildings etc. by cross referencing them with huge maps, marked up by the valuers as they did their rounds.

I also talk about how to get the most out of your visit to the archives, and how you can maximise the value of your day out.

Throughout this episode, I refer to the National Archives webpage with links to maps and books – and it can be found here.

Small warning: while this record set can be fascinating and absorbing, you’ll need to visit the Archives, of pay for copies to be sent to you.  Spend money and time at your own risk

Recommended drinks to accompany this episode: Sadly none.  You are not allowed drinks in the document reading rooms.  And with good reason!

Recommended biscuits to accompany this episode: Anything from a supermarket’s ‘value’ range.  We are talking about valuations, after all.

Listen now