Hi Joan, Yes Elizabeth would have been in receipt of an annuity. Quite how you trace it is another matter. I assume it could have been as the result of employment ? , or contributions to a policy - much like a pension fund today, or even a provision by a relative. Bearing in mind how many times some insurance companies have changed names and ownership over the years ........... Annuitant: The beneficiary of an annuity who receives a stream of payments pursuant to the terms of the annuity contract. Regards Dave Allen > Hi > I'm new to this list, but my family came from the North East and I am tracing my ancestors. > I am intersted in the HOLMES family of Coundon and also a Whitfield GARDENER from Stanhope. There are several generations of these from 1690 to about 1801. > A question - what is an annuitant? > Elizabeth Holmes (age 77) of Coundon is listed on the 1881 census as being an annuitant. Does this mean that she was in receipt of an annuity? If so would there be any records that I could check to find out who the annuaity was from and how much it was etc.? > Another question - where is Weardale? Does it cover several villages and towns, and if so which? > I would be grateful for any help, and I am enjoying reading your messages. > Joan Moreton (nee Holmes) from Bedford > > > ==== NORTHERN-ENGLAND Mailing List ==== > There is a map showing the areas and Counties which this list covers highlighted in red here, > http://www.genealogy45.fsnet.co.uk/ > > > --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). Version: 6.0.231 / Virus Database: 112 - Release Date: 12-Feb-01