Robert Lloyd - a Sir Gar Blog of random news . . . and some Clecs!

Carmarthenshire archives and two libraries have joined forces to provide a free family history service. It follows an increasing interest nationwide of people wanting to research their roots, due in some part to the popularity of programmes such as ‘Who do you think you are?’ and ‘Long Lost Family’. Technology and digital archiving of thousands and thousands of documents has also made it easier for people to find information online. Carmarthenshire’s archive and libraries are now teaming up to offer a more accessible service, with experts on hand to help people discover their past. Until now people have enjoyed a basic package researching their ancestry at both Carmarthen and Llanelli town centre libraries. The latest move will mean they will have to access to a wide range of items including hard copies of Parish register indexes maps and access to findmypast.com website. The town centre locations are open six days a week and will make it easier for people to access, as well as the ...

Unearthing the past and digging up the family secrets is rapidly becoming one of the nation’s favourite pastimes. People who are itching to find out what their ancestors were like and where they came from can get help at Carmarthenshire County Archives. The archive service can help bring family stories to life, and with advances in online technology the process has become much easier. A variety of original historical records are now available electronically including the census, parish registers, probate and wills records, electoral registers and their predecessors poll books, and some estate records, such as rentals. Executive board member for archives Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “Looking into their family history has become a really popular pastime for many people. “A number of TV shows have encouraged this interest and there have been some fascinating stories told. “Our archive service is available to help Carmarthenshire people find out more about their family history and see what a...