Introduction

The Wiltshire Friendly Society commenced in 1828, which means that many of its members were born before registration of births began in 1837. The records of those joining include considerable information, which varied from time to time and increased in later years. All entrants were given a membership number and other information recorded includes:

Date of enrolment
Place of enrolment or abode at time of entry
Name
Parents’ names (for children)
Date of birth
Age next birthday
Place of birth
Occupation
Other notes (occasionally)

There were four types of insurance:

TABLE I First Class. Single or monthly contributions for assuring two shillings per week during sickness. Bed-lying pay, and one shilling per week. Walking pay: a weekly allowance of one shilling after the age of 65; and two pounds on death. The monthly contributions and the allowances in Sickness are to cease at the age of 65 years.
TABLE II. First Class. Single or monthly contributions for assuring a weekly allowance of one shilling after having attained the age of 65. The monthly contributions are to cease at the age of 60.
TABLE Ill. First Class. Single or monthly contributions for assuring a weekly allowance of one shilling after having attained the age of 70. The monthly contributions are to cease at the age of 65.
TABLE IV. First Class. Single or monthly contributions for assuring a week.

The records have been transcribed and the summary index on these pages gives:

Name
Place of abode or enrolment
Year of enrolment
A reference number

Full details may be obtained by writing to Research (Wiltshire FHS), Unit 3 Bath Road Business Centre, Devizes SN10 1XA, UK quoting the reference number(s) for which information is required.
The charge for this sevice is £1.00 per entry or £3.00 two to five entries and £5.00 for six to ten entries. Please provide a stamped addresses envelope. To obtain a quotation for larger numbers email the Research Officer.