Family tree research uncovers lots of terms that are no longer part of our contemporary lexicon. Researching and understanding these terms brings our ancestor's stories to life. The phrase "Paying for window-light" is a fine example of a term that was commonly used in the 1700s but is relatively unheard of today.
The term refers to a number of taxes that were implemented in the United Kingdom in the early 18th century. A similar tax was imposed in France in the late 1700s. These taxes were introduced as a way of assessing and charging taxes without having to impose an "income tax". In the early 1700s, people felt that their income was private information and the government had no business asking for it. Imposing a tax based on the number of windows in a home effectively taxing the bigger, wealthier homes at a higher level than the modest, smaller ones.
This tax led to many unusual situations like: houses being built with bricked up window spaces; and people boarding up their broken windows to avoid having to pay extra taxes on their homes.
Tracking down the meaning of these terms is much easier now because of the internet and some great search engines. Here's how I researched the term:
- Type in the exact phrase into your favorite internet search engine and select search;
- Review the results for relevance;
- If the results are not relevant see my search help at Genealogy Searches Online –It’s Easier Than You Think for suggestions on improving relevance;
- Type in a similar but less precise phrase into your favorite internet search engine;
- Review the results for relevance;
- If the results are not relevant try the exact phrase in another search engine (there are a lot of engines besides Google – try MSN, Yahoo, Alta Vista, to name a few);
- If these results are not successful try the exact phrase in Online Genealogical Databases like Ancestry.com, OneGreatFamily., etc.;
- Be careful to analyze the results thoroughly. This search is a scavenger hunt and the there may be many miss-steps before you find the answer;
- If online solutions fail, it may require the help of professionals. My next step is to contact the Librarian at your local or Resource library. I would start with the Librarian in the Genealogy Section; they will have access to many resources that are not yet online;
- If Libraries fail to find the answer, then it may be necessary to go to a professional genealogist for their assistance. This may cost a little more, but knowing your family's stories, their challenges and their life and times is what genealogy is all about.
Have you got a story, or a better way to research terms and situations that have cropped up in your family tree research?
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