The Parish Registers Of Askham Richard Yorkshire 1579-1812

The Parish Registers of Askham Richard, Yorkshire 1579-1812

Journey Through Time in a Hidden Yorkshire Gem
Unlock the secrets of your ancestors with this meticulously transcribed collection of parish records from the charming village of Askham Richard. Spanning over 230 years of English history—from the reign of Elizabeth I through the Napoleonic Wars—these registers offer an unparalleled window into the lives of ordinary people during extraordinary times.

What You'll Discover Inside

Complete Baptisms, Marriages, and Burials (1579-1812)
Original Early Modern English Spellings preserved for authenticity
Comprehensive Index of names, places, and occupations
Historical Context Notes explaining significant events that affected the parish
Clergy Notes and Marginalia revealing the human side of record-keeping
A Village Steeped in History

Askham Richard, nestled in the picturesque Yorkshire countryside, carries a rich heritage dating back to the Domesday Book. Named for Richard, Earl of Cornwall and son of King John, this small parish has witnessed centuries of English history unfold.

Local Legends and Mysteries
As you explore these registers, you'll also encounter references to the fascinating folklore of Askham Richard:

The Ghost of Greyfriars: Local legend tells of a spectral monk said to wander the churchyard on moonless nights, searching for a lost manuscript. Several entries in the burial register from the 17th century make veiled references to "strange sightings" and "unearthly visitors."

The Hidden Treasure of Askham Hall: During the Civil War, Royalist supporters allegedly buried a chest of silver on the grounds of Askham Hall to prevent its seizure by Parliamentarian forces. Despite numerous attempts over the centuries, the treasure has never been found—though some parishioners noted unusual excavations in the 1680s.

The Phantom Highwayman: The 1760s saw numerous entries referencing "the gentleman robber" who terrorized the Great North Road near Askham. Legend says he was a disgraced nobleman who stole only from the wealthy and shared his spoils with poor villagers. He was never caught, though his exploits ended abruptly in 1768.

Why These Records Matter
For genealogists, these registers represent an invaluable primary source. The period covered includes:

The aftermath of the English Reformation
The English Civil War and its impact on rural communities
The Agricultural Revolution
The beginnings of the Industrial Revolution in Yorkshire
These records don't just list names and dates—they tell the story of a community through plagues, wars, religious changes, and social transformations. Whether you're tracing your family history or researching Yorkshire's past, these registers provide essential insights.

Special Features
Handwriting Guide to help you read the original scripts
Occupation Glossary explaining historical job titles
Disease and Cause of Death Index with modern medical equivalents
Map Section showing parish boundaries changes over time
Surname Distribution Analysis revealing family patterns
A Glimpse into the Past
This collection is more than just data—it's a time machine to an era when life was marked by seasons, faith, and community bonds. Within these pages, you'll find:

Families who remained in Askham Richard for generations
Soldiers who fought in the Civil War and returned home
Children who survived smallpox outbreaks only to perish in childhood accidents
Couples who married in their teens and celebrated golden anniversaries
The changing patterns of names, from traditional English to more fashionable choices
For the Professional and Enthusiast

Whether you're a professional genealogist, local historian, or family history enthusiast, these registers offer something valuable. The comprehensive introduction provides historical context, while the detailed indexes make research efficient. The included mythological and folkloric elements add color to the bare facts, helping you imagine the world your ancestors inhabited.

Order Your Copy Today
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of life in historic Yorkshire. The Parish Registers of Askham Richard 1579-1812 is more than a genealogical resource—it's a portal to the past, where your ancestors' stories await discovery.