Welcome to the Wills Database Online

What does the Database cover?

The index covers the years 1492 - 1940 and contains 130,000 entries. It covers probate documents proved at Chester mainly for Cheshire residents.

What will the Database tell me?

The index supplies name, place of residence (at the time of making the will), occupation and date of probate (usually within a year of death, although it can be much longer).

It also indicates the type of record which survives. These could be a Will, 'Admon' or administration bond (normally when there is no will), Inventory of personal property or Codicil or other probate documents.

How can I get copies?

The standard charge per will is £3 plus postage.  If you find a will you would like to order, you can add the will (or wills) to your basket and proceed to the checkout of our secure on-line shop.

Once you have submitted your request we will send your copies within 10-15 working days.  You will be asked to enter your credit card details and payment will be taken from your account at the point of ordering.  If you would prefer to order by cheque, please make cheques payable to Cheshire County Council and send to the Cheshire Record Office, Duke Street, Chester, CH1 1RL.

There are no images of documents on this database, but you can order copies of most documents after searching the database. More information on Cheshire Wills.

How do I find what I want?

The database can be searched in two ways:

• Basic Search - to search for an individual or by surname and/or date and place.
• Advanced Search - to search by place, occupation, date and type of probate document (eg everyone in Middlewich with an inventory between 1550 and 1700, or all the butchers in Frodsham)

Tell us what you think

We would also really appreciate it if you could give us your comments about the Wills Database Online. It won't take more than a few moments to fill out our feedback form.

To get the most out of this website, or for general help - please use the Help Section.

For queries regarding this service, please contact Cheshire Archives and Local Studies.