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Family history

Exploring your family history can be a fascinating and rewarding experience, but it can be difficult to know where to start. We have a range of information and resources to help you.

Step 1 - gather information

Note down all the dates and events you are certain of concerning your immediate family. Ask other members of your family what they know, but remember it is always best to check information by consulting official records, so you have concrete proof to back up memories!

Family photos are a great way to get people talking, so do ask relatives to see these. It is best to start with yourself and work backwards.

For more tips on how to start your search, visit the BBC website or the National Archives website.

Step 2 - develop a research plan

Once you've gathered all the information your family can offer, it's time to plan the rest of your research.

The Kent History and Library Centre has a range of records which will help, such as:

  • parish records (including baptisms, marriages, burials and school records)
  • census returns dating back to 1841
  • wills and probate records
  • taxation records (for example property and land taxes)
  • electoral registers.

Use the archive catalogue to look up the finding numbers for the documents you'd like to see. You can then order documents so they're ready for when you arrive or order digital copies if you can't make it to the centre. Remember to write down accurately the references to any documents you find that might be relevant.

Step 3 - visit us

When you've gathered all the information you can at home, it's time to visit the Kent History and Library Centre or your library's local history section to start filling in any gaps in your research.

It's important to plan your visit:

  • Contact the archive centre in advance. Check the centre you're planning to visit holds the records you want to see and confirm that the records are available for you to view immediately. Speak to staff about booking any additional resources you may need (for example a desk, computer or microfilm reader).
  • Bring some identification. To use the archive area, your Kent library card must be activated. We can do this for you as long as you have identification with you. Your identification should confirm your name, current address and signature. Find out more about our library cards and how to get one.
  • Talk to staff when you arrive at the centre so they are aware of what you are trying to find out and to ask them for advice.

Helpful family history websites

There are many helpful family history websites online, whether you're looking for archives, genealogy, family searches or societies.

View websites which can help you in your family history journey.