The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “archive” as “a place in which public records or historical materials (such as documents) are preserved an archive of historical manuscripts a film archive; also: the material preserved —often used in plural reading through the archives; a repository or collection especially of information”. The first and best archive any genealogist should explore is the Library and Archives Canada site at www.bac-lac.gc.ca
When you have logged on to this site and are on the home page, click on “Genealogy and Family History” at the left hand side of the page. This comprehensive site has everything you need to get started, including an entire section on “How To Begin” and “what to do first” if you are starting to research your family. There are very practical tips of how to collect your data, then good information on how to organize what you have collected, including how to make pedigree and family charts. This is a wonderful source of information because it tells you how to organize and save your data, whether you are using the computer or organizing papers and photographs manually.
It lists the “Most Requested Records” including births, marriages, deaths, census, immigration and citizenship, military, land and employment. Got a question? You can submit a question online, or write to them at Genealogy Services, Library and Archives Canada,
395 Wellington Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0N4, CANADA.
All this information on just one page of the site! Go back to the home page and you will find other fascinating sources of information, including researching your aboriginal ancestry; first world war; military service file after 1919; censuses, and much more. It is a great way to get started: the site is very clear and easy to navigate.
For broader knowledge about archive information, the Saskatchewan Council for Archives and Archivists (SCAA) represents the Saskatchewan archival community in the Canadian archival system, and is responsible for developing a cooperative and successful archival network in Saskatchewan, encouraging the establishment of new archives in Saskatchewan, promoting and developing standard archival policies and practices, and promoting public understanding and use of archives and historical resources in Saskatchewan. Visit their site at www.scaa.sk.ca
Closer to home, the Saskatchewan Genealogical Society (SGS) www.saskgenealogy.com offers help with education about genealogy, collecting, and preserving historical information. Their website lists their mission statement as “SGS is a volunteer provincial heritage organization whose purpose is to promote and develop the study, research, and preservation of genealogy and family history. The many programs and services we offer are all designed to achieve our mission.” Their mandates are “Preservation of Saskatchewan records; assistance to Saskatchewan residents researching their heritage anywhere; assistance to anyone researching their Saskatchewan heritage; to be a collective voice of genealogy in the province of Saskatchewan; to coordinate all genealogical and family history projects and research in Saskatchewan.” They have a library and catalogues, and also great information on the SGS cemetery program.
Right within the city of Yorkton, the Yorkton branch of the SGS meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Yorkton Public Library. Meetings usually have a featured topic or speaker, and genealogists at any stage of research are welcome. Whether you are just beginning to trace your family tree or have been researching for a long time, you will find conversations and experiences that will help you on your family quest. There is no better time to record your family history than right now. Every family has a story: discover yours with the Yorkton branch of the Saskatchewan Genealogical Society.
