Have you ever wanted to explore the history of your family? Or your hometown? The census can act as a building block for social and family history, if you know how to put it in context. This workshop will equip you with all the tools you need to start your own research!
Join Dr Simon Briercliffe at the Sandwell Archives for an in-person workshop on the history of the census, how to access it online or in the archives, and how to understand it. Learn how to trace your ancestors and uncover the social history of places connected to you.
During the workshop, you’ll get to:
What we’ll do:
• Learn the history of the census
• Interact with other history enthusiasts
• Start to conduct your own historical research under the guidance of friendly professionals
• Ask questions!
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YOUR HOST
Dr Simon Briercliffe (MA) is a historian (Black Country Living Museum) and Doctorial Researcher at the University of Birmingham. Simon specialises in the history of the Black Country, and has worked in museums and heritage. Alongside his research, Simon is an avid public speaker and reader, and even runs a local history blog!
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ADDITIONAL INFO
When is this event happening?
There will be two hour-long sessions to choose from, one on the Tuesday 24th May 2022, another on Saturday 11th June 2022. Both sessions will begin at 11am.
Please choose one session to attend.
Where is this event happening?
This event will take place at Sandwell Archives, please make sure you arrive in good time so we can begin the workshop promptly!
Do I need any previous experience?
No, absolutely not! Everyone is welcome to join, and we’ll show you everything you need to know, and walk you step-by-step through the process of interpreting and understanding census records.
Do I need to bring anything?
We’d recommend bringing a pen and paper or a device if you’d like to make notes as you build your new skillset.
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ABOUT MADE IN SMETHWICK
Made in Smethwick is an exciting season of events and activities taking place in and around Smethwick, highlighting the rich global history of local area.
Focusing on stories relating to two former industrial sites – Chance Brothers Glassworks and Soho Foundry and Mint – the events are a chance for people to explore the town’s industrial heritage, discover the history of their neighbourhood, and share their own ideas about what it’s like to live, work, and grow up in the area.
VIEW THE FULL PROGRAMME
This isn’t the only event! Check out the full programme here.
THANKS TO…
This project has been funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund.
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HAVE YOUR SAY: HOW SHOULD OUR OLD INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS BE USED?
Chance Heritage Trust is on a mission to raise the cultural profile of Smethwick’s industrial heritage, and bring former industrial buildings – like the iconic Chance Glassworks – back into use within the community.
Now, with help from the Community Renewal Fund, Chance Heritage Trust is starting to develop plans for the Chance Glassworks site.
This survey is part of a wider programme of community consultation, which will help to shape these plans.
How would you like to see these buildings used? And, apart from living and working spaces, what kind of opportunities and facilities should they contain for community use?