Scotland, Ireland and Wales, Militia Attestation Papers, 1800-1915

Source Information

Ancestry.com. Scotland, Ireland and Wales, Militia Attestation Papers, 1800-1915 [database on-line]. Lehi, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2019.
Original data: WO 96: Militia Attestation Papers, The National Archives, Kew, Surrey, England The National Archives give no warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or fitness for the purpose of the information provided. Images may be used only for purposes of research, private study or education. Applications for any other use should be made to The National Archives Image Library, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU, Tel: 020 8392 5225. Fax: 020 8392 5266.

About Scotland, Ireland and Wales, Militia Attestation Papers, 1800-1915

Historical Context

Militia forces in the United Kingdom represent the oldest parts of the British military. Until 1881, it consisted of a part-time force, organised by county and called upon for home defence. After that date, they officially became part of the county regiments and existed in that way until they were reorganised into the national Territorial Army in 1908.

This Collection

This collection comprises attestation papers for recruits into the militia from 1800-1915. Attestation forms were filled in at the time of recruitment and records often include information about physical appearance and details of previous service.

The following information can be found, where available:

  • Name
  • Name of relative(s)
  • Relationship to serviceman
  • Place and date of birth
  • Place and date of Enlistment
  • Gender
  • Regiment and unit
  • Service rank
  • Service number

Updates: Mar 2020: Added 55,616 new records to the collection.