Hollywood stars’ UK roots go online

Millions of American census records are included in the collection, detailing British actors and actresses who moved to the US during the golden age of movies.

The 1940 US Federal Census Records, published by family history website Ancestry.co.uk, include acting superstars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton and Alfred Hitchcock, who moved to the US to direct some of the best-known films of all time, such as Psycho and The Birds.

Information is also revealed on US stars, including Marilyn Monroe, who is listed as being a ward of the state at the age of 13, living under the care of Grace and Doc Goddard, who were appointed her legal guardians after her mother was declared mentally unstable.

The records also reveal how the showbiz industry was booming in America during the 1940s, with more than 19,000 actors and actresses, nearly 55,000 dancers, showmen and athletes, and almost 24,000 motion picture projectionists listed in the collection.

Miriam Silverman, of Ancestry.co.uk, said: “These US census records are a great addition to our international collections, and will allow millions of Brits to uncover information about their ancestors who relocated to America.

“They are particularly valuable as UK census data from this period will not be available until 2041.”

She added: “They also allow us an insight into the humble beginnings of some of the world’s best known superstars from the Golden Age of Hollywood before they hit the big time.”