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In the Library (or anywhere with a Library card for NSW residents) | |
Only in the Library | |
Publicly available |
You can use Session records of the Old Bailey, 1815-1849 (HO16) when you are in the Library. Can't come to the Library? Contact us. |
STEP 1
Using the table below find the microfilm reel number for the date range that covers your convict's trial.
Reel No. | Piece No. | Date | Description |
---|---|---|---|
1542 | 1 | 1815-1818 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1542 | 2 | 1819-1822 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1543 | 3 | 1823-1826 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1543 | 4 | 1827-1830 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1543-1544 | 5 | 1831-1834 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1544 | 6 | 1835-1838 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1544-1545 | 7 | 1839-1842 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1545 | 8 | 1843-1846 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
1545 | 9 | 1847-1849 | Returns of convicted prisoners |
(The above information has been taken from The Australian Joint Copying Project Handbook Part 3: Home Office, HO 16 - Old Bailey Sessions: Returns of convicted prisoners)
STEP 2
Request the microfilm reel by completing a stack request slip. Remember to add PRO in front of the of the reel number and to include 'HO 16 Old Bailey Sessions' on the stack request slip.
STEP 3
Search the microfilm for records about your convict. You may have to search through unrelated records until you find the records you need.
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Example of the information found in a Session record:
Names | Crime - As charged in Indictment | Crime - as by Verdict of Jury | Sentence |
---|---|---|---|
Richard Whittaker | Larceny | Guilty | Death |
George Harvey | Sheep stealing | Guilty | Death |
William Ball | Larceny | Guilty | Transp for 7 years |
Mary Fox | Receiving stolen goods | No prosecution | Delivered by proclamation |
References
The Session records of the Old Bailey were written by the Clerk for the Sessions whereas the Proceedings of the Old Bailey were privately produced and were published for a public (not just legal) audience.
The Session records of the Old Bailey cover counties not included in the proceedings but contain less information about the accused and the offence.
Use the Trials in the Old Bailey and the Central Criminal Court research guide for help with Old Bailey records. The guide was developed by The National Archives (UK).