Thursday 22 January 2009

Do you know your family history?

Poole library is challenging people to find out more!

Following the release of the 1911 census last week, libraries in Poole have launched a Family and Local history week.

Poole central library and Broadstone library are encouraging people to delve into their past by hosting a series of talks and events. Jenny Oliver, who is running the ‘Poole and the Plague’ talk at the central library this afternoon said: “It’s a really dramatic story.”

Mrs Oliver added: “It strikes a chord with a lot of people and this event can provide information for the beginner or to anyone who has got stuck.”

The library is inviting local people to use free online databases such as Ancestry.com. Mrs Oliver added: “the 1911 census has just been released and people have got a whole new thing to look at.”

The Dorset Family History Society is also backing the event. Education and Liaison officer Debbie Winter said: “We have exhibitions, stands, books and CD’s for sale and are giving advice on starting a family history.”

Mrs Winter also thinks that there is greater interest following the release of the 1911 census but the first thing people should do is speak to their relatives: “talk to any living relative and gather information Documentation, birth certificates or a family bible,” she says.

The history week runs from the 19th-23rd of January and the library hopes to attract visitors in their hundreds.

To contact the Dorset family history society you can phone 01202 785623 or visit http://www.dorsetfhs.org.uk/
To access the 1911 census you can visit. http://www.1911census.co.uk/
To contact Poole Central library you can phone 01202 262424 or visit the website.

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