The Hampshire Family Historian | Vol.49 No.3 | December 2022

Chairman’s Report

Message from the Chairman

We have now been located in the Hampshire Record Office (HRO) for over a year and both parties; the HGS and the HRO agree it has been a success. My experience is that I have seen an increased number of visitors to our desk than previously when located in Cosham. On just one morning there were at least three visitors. Another benefit is that we can respond to some research enquiries quicker. I dealt with one request where it was suggested that our transcription was incorrect as the date of marriage took place in between the baptism of two children. I was able to go straight to the relevant microfiche showing the parish entry in question and confirmed our transcription was correct. As we all know, not all children are born within a marriage. The Hampshire Record Office has been experimenting with Saturday opening and if this proves to be successful, then HGS could consider covering our research desk. Of course this can only be achieved where there are sufficient volunteers. We have volunteers who are manning the research desk and also others working on cataloguing our deposits and also our BMD Unwanted Certificate Service. I know I am always requesting volunteers, but we need you to ensure the HGS provides an excellent service to our members. The Britons Dying Overseas Project is progressing well under the guidance of John Bowman. I joined a Zoom meeting some time ago and was pleased to see members from across the world. Nowadays we do not need our volunteers to be located in Hampshire.

Wherever you are in the world, I know you will be able to help us producing more material for our members. I am pleased to announce that Jill Lee has accepted my invitation

to take on the role of Bookstall Manager. In the September Historian I was pleased to announce that Tony Sinclair had taken responsibility for the Bookstall. However, we are seeking storage facilities. Do you have a spare room in your property or garage space available? I am pleased that Sue Stannard, one of our volunteers at the HRO has taken on the role of Publicity Co-ordinator. Sue has been liaising with several of the Hampshire Libraries to evaluate the possibility of providing research assistance. Gwen Newland has stepped down as Secretary due to health issues after many years. Gwen was previously our Membership Secretary. I wish to thank Gwen for her work as Secretary as it is one of the most important roles to cover. In addition, Gwen has been prominent in organising our Annual General Meetings. A copy of the Secretary Job

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