Family history records

If you want to trace your family tree you can search the burial records or cremation register. The burial records for Sunderland Cemeteries can be viewed at the Local Studies Centre.

These record show details of every burial that has taken place since the individual cemetery opened. Burials for Bishopwearmouth, Southwick and Mere Knolls Cemeteries started in the 1850s. Washington Cemetery did not open till the early 1900s.

Before the opening of the cemeteries burials were carried out in local churchyards. You will need to contact the relevant church authority for burial information.

Sunderland Crematorium opened in 1951.

For enquiries about cremation records, please contact Life and family.