Findmypast archive launches, bringing Bailiwick of Guernsey history to the world

This groundbreaking project, made possible through a collaboration between local organisations and the UK-based family tree company Findmypast, provides unprecedented access to the Bailiwick’s rich history for researchers and families worldwide.

Over the past year, vital records and 210,000 pages of archival documents—including Greffe records, parish church registers, Occupation identity cards, and conveyance documents—have been carefully digitised, ensuring that those with Bailiwick of Guernsey connections can now explore their heritage from anywhere in the world.

Key records for family history research, including births, marriages and deaths recorded at the Greffe, baptisms, marriages and burials recorded in parish church registers, as well as documents from the German Occupation and conveyancing documents have been included, while the original records will continue to be preserved at the various archives. Some of the earliest church registers date back to the late 1500s, with registers from Alderney and Sark also included in the digitisation project.

The newly digitised records can be accessed via the Findmypast website, offering a treasure trove of information for genealogists, researchers, and anyone curious about their family history. They mark a significant step forward in making Bailiwick of Guernsey historical records more accessible, having lasting impact on record preservation and accessibility. Following advice from Law Officers of the Crown and the States of Guernsey Data Protection team, and informed by UK National Archives guidelines, data protection considerations have limited some records created to a set number of years ago.

The project was led by the Bailiwick of Guernsey Digitisation Partnership, a steering group consisting of representatives from the Priaulx Library, Island Archives, the Deanery of Guernsey, La Société Guernesiaise and the Greffe. The team worked closely with Findmypast to oversee the digitisation process, which was carried out in Guernsey at the Priaulx Library, Island Archives, and Greffe to ensure the safe preservation of the original records. More information about the Partnership, including news, events, FAQs and ways for the local community to get involved, can be found at the newly launched website: familyhistory.gg.

Steve Foote, Chief Executive of the Priaulx Library, said:

“This project has been driven by a shared passion for preserving and sharing our history, and we want to thank all of those who have helped to make it possible, including Findmypast. The monumental project of digitising these records will not only help people with Guernsey, Sark and Alderney connections uncover their family stories across the decades to come, but it will also raise awareness of our islands’ rich heritage on an international scale. We are pleased to also launch our Digitisation Partnership website, which we hope will be a hub for those interested in engaging with our work to find out about upcoming news, events and much more.”

Vikki Hart, Island Archivist, said:

“This is a major achievement for our island, bringing us in line with other jurisdictions that have already digitised their records. By making these important documents available online, we are ensuring they remain accessible to researchers worldwide, while also preserving the originals for our future generations.”

The Very Revd Tim Barker, the Dean of Guernsey, said,

‘I am delighted that people across the world will be able to research family connections and roots in Guernsey, through the release of so many of Guernsey’s historic records. Understanding our family history is an important way for many of us to affirm and celebrate both the unique identity of each person and the connections we have through our family relationships.’

Mary McKee, UK Archives Manager at Findmypast, said:

“The records published today offer unprecedented online access to anyone looking to delve deeper into the rich history of these islands. For the first time, researchers will be able to search within millions of records and uncover the family stories of islanders over the past 400 years. In particular, the Occupation records from the Second World War provide poignant insights into life during one of the most challenging periods in its modern history. We’re very proud to offer these to the public exclusively online on Findmypast.”

Offering great opportunities for Genealogy Tourism – VisitGuernsey will tap into a new audience - targeting travellers that are looking to trace their roots. Want to work with us on this exciting project? Get in touch with Jo.ferguson@gov.gg