Doncaster and District Family History Society

The Palgrave Research Centre will reopen Wednesday 19 June 2013 following a one day closure, due to lack of water and toilet facilities.

More information on the Palgrave Research Centre page.

The latest edition of Doncaster Ancestor is now available. If you would prefer to have online access to this and future editions of Doncaster Ancestor, rather than a printed copy, please email the Membership Secretary.

The Researching Military Ancestors Course 23 May 2013 is now full and there is a waiting list. To cope with the additional demand another Researching Military Ancestors Course is being held on Tuesday 4 June 2013 10:00 - 1:00.
More information

On Monday 8 July 2013 a full day trip has been arranged to visit Southwell Minster in the morning, where we will have a guided tour of the Minster and there will be chance to have something to eat, before going on to the Workhouse at Southwell in the afternoon. Here we will have a guided private tour, with a complimentary drink provided.

The total cost for the 2 visits and coach travel is £22.00. There are still a few seats left.

This new publication in compact A5 booklet size contains almost 80 pages of Baptisms transcribed from the parish registers of St. Helen’s Church, Burghwallis, and sorted alphabetically. Details include parent or parents, date of baptism [and birth where recorded], occupation of parent, their abode as well as any other information that appears in the records.

Millions of pages of historical British newspapers on findmypast.co.uk are now available to search online and print the scanned record images at the Society's Palgrave Research Centre. If you require help just ask either of the two volunteers.
Non-members are welcome, entrance £2 per person per visit, but please ensure you book, 01302 311930, as we are expecting a lot of interest.
More information on the Palgrave Research Centre

Doncaster Archives has launched a new online catalogue, which enables you to search for details of many of its historical collections.

Visit the Doncaster Archives’ online catalogue website.

You may have heard of genetic genealogy or DNA testing for genealogy and wondered whether it is something you should try. So before you rush to swab your mouth and pay your money, below are a few links to websites which attempt to answer most of the frequently asked questions:

"My ancestors come from Norfolk and Durham. Early on in my research I knew I would need some help, as frequent trips to these places was not an option. I joined both the Northumberland & Durham and the Norfolk Family History Societies and gave them my Member’s Interest Surnames.

Exorbitant charges are being made by third parties for birth, marriage or death certificates. Charges can be as high as £30 for a certificate, which the General Register Office (GRO) can supply for £9.25.
The GRO has produced a booklet “Getting the most from the General Register Office, Discover Your Family History” Link to PDF file 364kb, 21 pages