The Mercantile Navy List

Although this appeared in 1850, apparently the earliest surviving examples are from 1857. There were numerous and frequent changes in the form of information contained and presented. However, for genealogists there are two main reasons for seeking this listing out.

Most importantly, for the period between 1857 and the mid 20^th century, British registered vessels’ official numbers can be identified. When dealing with the inter war period or later, there is no decode section for official numbers in the M.N.L. (which is required in some instances). However, this will be dealt with further on.

Secondly, when tracing masters and mates between 1857 and 1864 the M.N.L. often provides a short cut. In these years there were listings of holders of certificates, along with their numbers. Please note, however, that there are errors and omissions in this.

Go to Ships’ Crew Lists and Articles

Go to the Certification of Seamen Officers

Go to the Central Index Register c.1919 to 1941

Go to the main Mercantile Page