THE CENSUS 1881

The 1881 census reflected working life more accurately than any previous one. The census was now endeavouring to reflect new social norms, as gainful occupation became more important to the nation than the class into which a person had been born.

The census was now endeavouring to reflect new social norms

This was the last census in which people were asked for “Rank” along with “Profession, or Occupation”. These designations blurred the lines between social and employment status. It is not at all unusual to see “gentleman” in this column, which said nothing about a person’s day-to-day activities.

Another common entry is “Ind” (independent) or “living on own means”