Genealogy Chat

Has anyone used these by any chance? (I mean the centres run by the Mormon Church). I wonder if they are useful? There is one very near to me which I am thinking of visiting,
Thanks!
Jan

I just use their website - I pass one of their churches most days, but have never ventured in

I personally have never been in but know people who have and say they are very helpful and friendly.

They do have records available and they can also get others eg Parish Record microfiches for you to view. I think if you have one near to you it would be worth a visit to find out their resources

Jennifer

Thanks for replies!
I think I might venture in - I have unknowingly driven past countless times on my way to and from work, so it's worth a visit I think.
Jan

The one that I use is very helpful. The staff are very friendly, they never discuss religion, never try to convert you. They can order microfilms of parish records for you to view for a small fee.

Thanks Margaret. I need parish record info now, so that would be great.
In passing, I've seen the term LDS here & there, does anyone know what this means?
Regards
Jan

LDS is the proper name for Mormons. It's Church of the Latter Day Saints.

Janet, check the times that your local Family History centre is open, You can find it on the Familysearch website. Mine is only open 2 days a week.

Again, thanks Margaret - should have realised what LDS stands for! I'll be sure to check out the opening times.
Wish me luck!
Jan

They are very helpfull, I am lucky when i go stay with my daughter go to the one in London. Plus she has one near her.

Yes only open some days of the week.

Good luck

The microfilms that you order have much more detail than what is on the website because they're copies of the actual parish records with the minister's notes in the margin.
The microfiche that I've used don't have much more than what's on the website.. Mind you, it's many years since I've used microfiche, things could have changed.
I understand that when the Mormons were given permission to film the parish records, the deal was that they would make them available to the public and that they would not try to convert the people using the records. That's why they make a point of never discussing religion.

Thanks again for the info and support everyone!
Jan

Hear, hear, to all that's been said.

My family history centre (country town in Queensland) is fantastic. The volunteers are helpful and patient. They charge very little, & as Karen suggested, I always leave a small donation.

Ozi.