Bored census enumerator? (General)

by v.davies , Monday, December 29, 2008, 03:51 (5881 days ago)

Has anyone else noticed this or similar abberations? Examining census details for my ancestors at St. Briavels Common in 1841. I noticed that they, and a remarkable number of their neighbours had been marked down as not being born in the county, but with a 'N' followed by a tick in the next column for 'Whether born in Scotland, Ireland or Foreign Parts'. Parish records and subsequent census records indicate that the ancestors in question were 'local' in origin (well pre- 1781 at least.) Closer examination showed neat listing in alternating blocks of Y's and N's. Perhaps these records were completed later rather than on chilly doorsteps? Thank goodness our F.O.D. transcribers are more consciencious. Perhaps I am too cynical however. Has anyone a more charitable explanation?