You're Nicked!

Part one of this series of talks on genealogy sources and the English legal system focuses on the wealth of information of the Proceedings of the Old Bailey. It is not just the criminals whom the police “nicked” but also the innocent, bystanders and character referees who appear in its records. And if your ancestor was sentenced to transportation to Australia, then the Digital Panopticon may well have information for you.

Join Patrice Connelly as she explains each platform, shows you how to search it, gives examples of the types of crimes to be found in this wonderful resource, and explores its importance in research for multiple disciplines.

And for those of you wondering, in the 17th century, “nicking” was thieves’ slang, synonymous with stealing. In time, “nicking’ shifted to being arrested and placed in “the nick” or prison.

Look out for Part 2, coming very soon to a Zoom screen near you.

About Family History Connect:

Our 'members-only' series, Family History Connect, features themed sessions focused on a particular area of genealogy research.

Sessions are generally facilitated by one of the Society’s wonderful volunteers and will usually take place online. These sessions are open to all current members of the Society. 

These sessions are an opportunity for you to discuss research strategies and approaches, get ideas for source leads and next steps.

About the Family History Connect series:

If you would like to facilitate a Family History Connect session, please get in touch with us via email at admin@sag.org.au