Accountants Records

The History

Accountants have been required since medieval times although the profession was not really recognised until the mid 1800's until Legislation affecting the financial dealings in Companies became complex and required the services of a skilled accountant rather than a clerk.

The main professional body for accountants is the Institute of Chartered Accountants although there were several other smaller organisations until 1880 when the Institute was given a Royal Charter.

Fortunately for Family Historians the Association produced an annual list of members from 1881 onwards.

The first list showed just 1470 members.

The listing shows name, qualification , firm and either their home address or the address of the firm.

Where do I find these records?

Papers from larger firms of accountants and some copies of the lists will be held by County Records Offices or Local Museums.

A copy of each years lists is held by the Institute .

These can be examined by personal callers at Moorgate Place in London.

The 1887 List of Members is available online at the Institute website.

If the firm or a successor is still trading they may still have some old records.

The Institute website has a facility to trace amamgamation of firms over the years.