Join Libraries Tasmania for National Family History Month
Connect with your past at Libraries Tasmania!
National Family History Month is a nationwide celebration of the stories, facts and mysteries that shape who we are.
Libraries Tasmania is hosting events across State Library and Archives of Tasmania and public libraries throughout August. From author talks and family history workshops to archive tours and expert research advice, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the stories that connect us all.
The program explores topics from Carr Villa Cemetery and the art of the Ross Bridge to Arnott’s biscuit tin history and First Fleet family stories.
Along with opportunities to learn family history research skills, explore Aboriginal family history resources, discover the treasures of Trove, and meet experts from the National Archives of Australia.
Start the journey of connecting with your past with Libraries Tasmania.
- Learn how to research your family tree using easy tools and expert help.
- Find hidden stories in old records and family files.
- Celebrate the rich and diverse histories of Tasmanian families.
- Take a behind-the-scenes tour of our archive collections.
- Connect with others who share your passion for family history.
All events are free and everyone is welcome (subject to capacity).
What’s On
North
History Talk: Carr Villa Cemetery
Join Marion Sargent, President of the Launceston Historical Society, for a virtual tour exploring the history of Carr Villa Cemetery and stories of some of the fascinating individuals laid to rest there.
History Comes to You: National Archives Pop-up
Meet staff from the National Archives of Australia during special pop-up information sessions. Drop in and learn more about the records and resources available to support your family history research.
History Talk: The Enigmatic Art of the Ross Bridge
Author Jennie Jackson shares the fascinating story behind the artistry of Ross Bridge and her personal connection to one of Tasmania’s most celebrated landmarks.
History Talk: Alice and Daniel Stanfield
Join author Maureen Bennett to discuss her latest book, Alice and Daniel Stanfield: A First Fleet Family’s Impact on Australia.
History Talk: Are You an Arnott’s Baby?
Historian Greg Cooke explores Arnott’s famous Living Pictures campaign and the stories behind this iconic piece of Australian history.
North West
Show & Tell: Family History
Date:
Monday 17 August
Tuesday 18 August
Time:
10:30 am to 11:30 am
Bring along treasured family photos, heirlooms and stories to share with others in an informal and welcoming setting. Enjoy a cuppa and biscuits while connecting with fellow family history enthusiasts.
Preserving Family Treasures: Book Restoration Talk
Di Charles from Crave Book Restoration presents an engaging session on restoring and preserving treasured books and historical documents, with a focus on items of family and community significance.
South
The Ross Bridge: Mystery, symbols and satire
Date:
Thursday 20 August
Time:
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Author Jennie Jackson shares the fascinating story behind the artistry of Ross Bridge and her personal connection to one of Tasmania’s most celebrated landmarks.
Tracing Aboriginal Family History
Date:
Wednesday 12 August
Wednesday 26 August
Time:
11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Who’s your mob? Finding Aboriginal family history in the archives.
Discover how archival records can help you research and trace your Aboriginal family history. This special National Family History Month session introduces key resources, collections and research pathways available through State Library and Archives of Tasmania.
Beer, Jam, Stowaways and Thylacines: Explore Tasmania’s Customs Records
Date:
Wednesday 19 August
Time:
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Uncover fascinating stories hidden within Tasmania’s customs records. Explore the movement of people, animals and goods through Tasmania’s ports, and discover how these records can provide unique insights into family and social history.
Tour: Tasmanian Archives Geilston Bay
Date:
Tuesday 4 August
Tuesday 11 August
Tuesday 18 August
Tuesday 25 August
Time:
11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Where:
Tasmanian Archives, Geilston Bay
Go behind the scenes at Tasmania’s archival repository and discover how Tasmania’s documentary history is preserved. Learn about the collections, storage facilities and records that help uncover family and community histories.
Getting Started: An Introduction to Researching State Library and Archives
Date:
Monday 24 August, at 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Friday 28 August, at 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Time:
Various
Introductory sessions exploring State Library and Archives of Tasmania’s collections, resources and research tools, with practical tips to help you start uncovering your family’s story.
What can I learn from TROVE?
Date:
Thursday 13 August
Monday 24 August
Time:
10:00 pm to 12:00 pm
Discover how to use TROVE, Australia’s online archive of historical newspapers, photographs and records, to trace your family history and uncover stories from the past.
Author Talk: Katherine Scholes
Join Tasmanian author Katherine Scholes discussing her latest novel, One Night at Silver Lake, exploring themes of family, identity and belonging.
Hobart Library: Saturday 8 August, 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Kingston Library: Thursday 13 August, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Glenorchy Library: Tuesday 4 August, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Bridgewater Library: Tuesday 11 August, 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Family History Basics
Some public libraries offer regular Family History assistance sessions. These are available throughout the year and will be available throughout National Family History Month. Check your local library for session times.
