New Westminster Archives’ Database Now Online

New Westminster, BC – The New Westminster Museum and Archives is very pleased to announce that our Archives’ database is now online. This publicly accessible database enables users to search and view descriptions of documents, photographs and other archival material.

Users can search the database simply by using keywords or by creating more complex searches using different criteria such as dates, subjects, names and locations. The database also has a sharing feature which will allow users to easily email record links to others or even send photos directly to their Facebook page or other social media sites. Users are also encouraged to comment on photographs and other records by using the email address provided.

“This will be the first time in our city’s history that people with access to the Internet will be able to view our excellent photograph collection from either the comfort of their homes or any other location in the world,” says archivist Barry Dykes. “For instance, I was able to search and retrieve images using my own smart phone. However, until the time when we get the bulk of our photographs online, people will still need to visit the archives; in any case, this is still a great start.”

Currently, the database contains over 4,000 descriptions, primarily of photographs. This represents only a fraction of the Archives’ total collection. More descriptions will be added as they are completed, so the site will continue to grow.

The New Westminster Museum and Archives acts as the memory and treasure-house for the people of New Westminster. The NWMA holds both official City records, which date back to 1860, as well as community records created by the Royal Engineers, societies, families and individuals. Now you can search at anytime online, and of course, you are still welcome to come and research in person.
To view or search the database, please use the following link: http://archives.newwestcity.ca

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Contact: Barry Dykes, Archivist
604-527-4642