This page is updated regularly so please return to check for new activities and events. The latest news and events are: 

• Archives at dusk
• Starter sessions for new users
• Learn more about family history at the County Record Office

Archives at dusk 2013

For the third year running we are hosting an open evening as part of the national 'Museums at Night' programme.

Please join us for 'Archives at Dusk' a light-hearted interactive evening exploring behind the scenes at the Record Office on Thursday May 16 between 6pm and 8.30pm. Highlights include a presentation on Edwardian and 1920's fashion through the eyes of a young lady on the hunt for a husband in India. We'll also be meeting other characters from the archives ranging from Nathaniel Cholmley, diamond trader, to the rather poorer inhabitants of the workhouse. 

No need to book, entry is free and light refreshments will be provided.

Starter sessions for new users

Have you been thinking about visiting the Record Office but are not sure what records we hold or where to begin?  Have you used the searchroom before but are keen to know more about our finding aids and collections?

Our starter sessions provide an introduction to the searchroom and aim to help you make the most of your research time.  Sessions are free and last for approximately one hour.   Numbers are limited so please book using the contact details below. 

Next sessions will be:

• Saturday 4 May 2013, 10.30am
• Friday 7 June 2013, 10.30am
• Saturday 6 July 2013, 10.30am

Learn more about family history at the County Record Office

We run full day sessions for people wanting to research their family history. These sessions are aimed at both beginners and more advanced family historians.

These sessions are very popular so advance booking is essential, please telephone 01609 777585 or e-mail archives@northyorks.gov.uk. The cost of each session is £30, including light refreshments and buffet lunch.

Next steps in family history, 3 August 2013

For people who may have experience of using census and civil registration records, and are ready to explore other sources. Led by an experienced family history tutor, and a professional archivist, it will include a detailed account of parish registers, plus how to access them online, as well as modern and ecclesiastical wills. Also Included is a behind the scenes tour of the Record Office.

Family history skills day, 2 November 2013

For those wishing to develop their family history skills.

Led by an experienced family history tutor with contributions from archivists, this day includes getting the best from the internet, approaches to Latin and palaeography (old handwriting), family tree recording software and conservation of personal archives.

County Record Office online catalogue Search through our catalogue of over 4,000 summary descriptions from all our archive collections and item level descriptions of selected collections