A major milestone for Channel Island historical research has been reached bringing Bailiwick of Guernsey history to the world.
Millions of key genealogical records have now been digitised and are available online through Findmypast.
This project has been made possible through a collaboration between local organisations including Priaulx Library, Island Archives, the Deanery of Guernsey, La Société Guernesiaise and the Greffe, and the UK-based family tree company Findmypast, providing access to the Bailiwick’s rich history for researchers and families worldwide.
Steve Foote, Chief Executive of the Priaulx Library, has been working on the project for the past few years.
“This project has been driven by a shared passion for preserving and sharing our history, and we want to thank all of those who have helped to make it possible, including Findmypast,” he said.
“The monumental project of digitising these records will not only help people with Guernsey, Sark and Alderney connections uncover their family stories across the decades to come, but it will also raise awareness of our islands’ rich heritage on an international scale. We are pleased to also launch our Digitisation Partnership website, which we hope will be a hub for those interested in engaging with our work to find out about upcoming news, events and much more.”
Over the past year, vital records and 210,000 pages of archival documents including Greffe records, parish church registers, Occupation identity cards, and conveyance documents have been carefully digitised, ensuring that those with Bailiwick of Guernsey connections can now explore their heritage from anywhere in the world.
Vikki Hart, Island Archivist, said it’s been a large project.
“This is a major achievement for our island, bringing us in line with other jurisdictions that have already digitised their records. By making these important documents available online, we are ensuring they remain accessible to researchers worldwide, while also preserving the originals for our future generations.”
The newly digitised records can be accessed via the Findmypast website, offering a information for genealogists, researchers, and anyone curious about their family history.