For many years the Daylesford & District Historical Society has provided research services. Many people wish to trace their family members who lived in our area. Our collection of old newspapers, reaching back to the 1859, and civic records from the various councils which existed here, are invaluable, and not available online.
We also provide information for writers and filmmakers, as shown in the last series of ‘Who do you think you are?’, and many of the book titles in our library.
Following our recent and very successful Open Day at the museum where visitors had the opportunity for a behind-the-scenes look at our research facilities, we realised that there are many people interested in the story of their house and/or the people who lived there in the past. Our volunteers are often able to provide unique insights. We have some resources not easily available elsewhere. Our Land File Data is a compilation of land transactions over time, giving the history of ownership of properties. We also have ledgers of Council rates, Water Rates and other civic records, listing owners and occupiers of addresses – although sadly without the street numbers, which were clearly not considered necessary in those times when people were known to each other.
The museum also holds many Family History files, compiled over many years by many people. We also have a reference library, which contains many family histories.
Our resources include cemetery, burial and inquest records, which can be useful in putting together a family tree, school records (incomplete) and many directories (including post office) which help us locate people and businesses.
In addition, we have a photographic collection of over ten thousand images, and a large collection of historical maps.
Not to mention our large museum collection, with some items relating directly to families and businesses from the past.
Our volunteers are happy to search for the information you want although we do have charges for this service to generate funds for the museum.
If you are interested – contact us via our research email: daylesfordhistoryresearch@gmail.com
