New West Midlands Files on Ancestry

Categorized under Directories & Member Lists, the 39,424 records of West Midlands, England, Police Files and Ledgers, 1850-1950 cover "appointments of regular and special constables, promotions, disciplinary actions, transfers, lists of applicants, injuries sustained in the line of duty, and physical descriptions." They are for the constabularies of Birmingham, Staffordshire, Coventry, Walsall, West Midlands, Dudley and Wolverhampton.

These are most interesting records for those with ancestors in police service. There are linked images recording the ups and downs of service. If you find a record of interest scroll back and forward from the image as there may be additional information.

Within the Court, Land, Wills & Financial category find 10,157 records of West Midlands, England, Criminal Registers, 1850-1933. Information usually available is: name, age at time of incarceration, birthplace, nature of the crime, conviction date, conviction place, sentence, photograph and/or a physical description. When you see a picture, especially of a youngster, it's natural to wonder how they got into the situation and what happened to them. You may find more information in newspapers.

Both databases are provided in association with the West Midlands Police Museum.