In a message dated 24/01/2007 16:15:07 GMT Standard Time, isabel.adams@ntlworld.com writes: If a couple died in 1820 and relatives brought up their children as their own would there have been a legal adoption. ? ____________________________________________________________ No, prior to 1927 there was no formal adoption process, and the term "adopted" generally included fostering and guardianship. In many instances a child was simply "adopted" into the extended family or taken in by neighbours/family friends and brought up as a member of their own family. Occasionally it was arranged through a solicitor, doctor or charitable organisation but adoption was viewed as an essentially private arrangement between the parties concerned. Regards Stan Mapstone