Census and statistics
Census returns, statistics and electoral registers.
Statistics for local history
Local Studies libraries hold many statistics for the County. You can find out about everything from unemployment to rainfall figures. Population statistics are one of the most useful series.
Following the Population Act of 1800, official statistics have been produced regularly. They start in 1801 and are continuing at 10 yearly intervals (excluding 1941.)
You can find figures for most towns and villages in the county. However, especially in the early years, some of the smaller places were hidden within a larger town or village. Using these statistics we can build up a picture of population growth and decline. A table showing these figures for the Peak District of Derbyshire can be seen on Peakland Heritage. (opens in a new window)
The amount of data collected has become more wide-ranging in recent times. Since 1971 it contains much social and economic information. The "small area statistics" which are very detailed, are available in the form of computer print-out or microfiche in the larger libraries.
There are also population estimates and projections produced by the local authority and these update the latest census data.
Information containing personal names:
1 Electoral Registers
There are many publications originally compiled on behalf of national and local government departments which can help you research family and local history.
One of the most important, beginning in the 18th century and extending up to the recent past, are the voters' lists or electoral registers.
Early electoral registers only included wealthier people. It was not until 1928 that every adult had the right to vote. Nevertheless electoral registers can be of great help in researching individuals or families.
The main county set of these is in the Derbyshire Record Office but some libraries, notably Chesterfield, have substantial collections.
2 Census enumerators returns
These were produced every 10 years and are available for use between 1841 to 1901. More recent ones are not available to view. This is a legal requirement to protect personal privacy.
A restricted version of the 1911 census is available only on a pay-per-view website www.1911census.co.uk (opens in a new window).
They list by name everyone resident in the county on census night.
The Local Studies Library, County Hall has complete returns for the county while Chesterfield has them for northern Derbyshire, excluding Glossop area.
Other libraries have a more limited area around their home town.
Census holdings in each library
This list gives a general outline of the towns and larger villages held at each library. Many smaller villages and hamlets are not listed but local staff will be able to advise you.
Download your copy from the related documents section to read all about it.
Related documents
The following document is in Portable Document Format (PDF). You can download the PDF software for free from the Adobe website (opens in a new window)