Browse the protestation returns in the Sussex OPC database (12738 records)

Instructions for searching the Sussex OPC protestation returns records.

Bible indicating protestation oath

Use the controls above to select the protestation data you wish to see. Parishes will appear in the drop down choices only when data is available.

In the (optional) last name field, you may use a '*' for a wildcard in the name to be searched for, e.g. 'Sm*' will return individuals with surnames starting with Sm, e.g. Smith, Small, Smart etc.

In July 1641, a bill was passed by the House of Commons requiring all males to sign an oath of allegiance to the Crown and to the Church of England. The incumbents of every parish in the country had the duty of ensuring all of their parishioners signed the oath. Records of those who signed (and those who refused), were returned to Parliament in 1641. Those who refused to sign were known as Recusants. The term 'recusant' meant a non-conformist, one obstinate in refusal, especially to comply with the Anglican Church ritual, one who refused to acknowledge the supremacy of the sovereign in religious matters.

Unfortunately the returns for East Sussex have been lost, however thanks to the efforts of Michael Metcalfe, we are pleased to offer the returns for West Sussex, indexed by parish.

Your feedback on the operation of this site and details of any problems encountered in its use is welcomed.

The advertisements below are served by Google; the very small revenue generated when people click on them sometimes covers the cost of hosting the Sussex OPC website.