Historians help families delve deep into their past (From Gazette & Herald)

Historians help families delve deep into their past

10:08am Wednesday 6th March 2013 in News

RESIDENTS who want to delve into history, including how a historic home in Hovingham came to be featured in a TV programme, will get the chance later this month.

A Family History Day, organised by the North Yorkshire County Record Office, will take place at the Harrogate Pavilions on March 16. It will involve leading experts in the fields of family and house history research, plus 30 stalls and trade stands run by archaeology and history organisations.

“Finding out about your family’s roots can be one of the most interesting and rewarding of all activities,” said County Coun Chris Metcalfe, executive member for library and information services.

“But knowing how to make the best of the hundreds of diverse sources available to you can be difficult. That’s where the experts and organisations we are gathering together can be a real help and make all the difference.”

Visitors will have the chance to go behind the scenes of the BBC’s Restoration Home, with the presenter and royal historian Dr Kate Williams. She used the resources at the record office during her preparation of a programme featuring Coulton Mill in Hovingham.

Dr Nick Barratt, from the TV series Who Do You Think You Are?, and editor of Your Family History magazine, will provide tips on researching family and house history.

Tickets are £2 each, payable at the door. Ticket holders are also eligible for half-price admission (£1) to the Antiquarian Book Fair taking place in a neighbouring section of the pavilions on the same day.

For more information, visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/archives

Places on talks (£5 each) are limited so early booking is recommended.

Phone the record office on 01609 777585 or email archives@northyorks.gov.uk