Learn to trace history at Indigenous research workshop

Kempsey Shire Library is holding an workshop for people who want to research Indigenous records on Saturday, 17 March from 12:30pm until 4pm. The Indigenous research workshop will assist people undertaking research into Aboriginal history and family history. Due to the sensitive nature of many of these records and the conditions of access, the library’s usual role in this process is to refer people to different organizations who may be able to help.

“It is hoped that through this workshop members of our Indigenous and wider community will develop an understanding of the different avenues open to them when seeking information about Aboriginal records,” said Gabi Brie, Shire Librarian.

The workshop will introduce the major organisations both in New South Wales, and nationally, that hold Aboriginal records. The main custodians of Aboriginal records will be discussed during the session. The State Library of New South Wales holds mission and missionary records, Tindale Genealogies and the Australian Indigenous Index, INFOKOORI.”

“The New South Wales State Archives hold the records of the Aborigines Welfare Board; these records include the Case Papers of Kinchela Boys Home 1944–1967. The procedure for accessing the Welfare Board material will be outlined during the session. The National Archives of Australia holds large quantities of files that contain information about Aboriginal people and their history. The “Bringing Them Home Name Index” project is compiled from these records.”.

“The workshop will also include the material from Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) and the New South Wales Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages,” added Ms Brie.

The format of the workshop, will be mainly internet based, due to the nature of the material, so it is recommended that attendees with limited computer skills bring someone along who can help them get the most out of the workshop.

The session will be informal with time at the end for questions. Places are limited and bookings can be made by contacting Angie or Ruth at the library on 6566 3210.