Royal Navy

Until the introduction of Continuous Service from 1853, men entered the Navy only for a particular commission in a particular ship. If the name of the ship is known, it may be possible to trace your ancestor's career through the Muster or Pay books held at the Public Record Office.

The PRO holds many records that can help in tracing those who served in the Royal Navy and has produced family factsheets and leaflets to assist in your research.

The Ministry of Defence's website lists useful addresses for tracing details of ancestors who have served in the Royal Navy.