Archive and Records Day at Ryde Library 6 February 2016

Ryde Social Heritage Group hosted a very successful and enjoyable Archive and Records Day at Ryde Library on Saturday 6 February. The Group’s exhibition had a key focus on ‘Streets of Ryde.’ Everyone is interested in the history of the street where they live and may even find information on their own house.

The morning was particularly busy with at times, up to 20 people gathered around the two long display tables. The refreshments area, run by Friends of Ryde Library, was conveniently situated next to the RSHG exhibition space so visitors were able to choose a file to look at whilst enjoying tea, coffee and delicious cakes!

Richard Smout, the Isle of Wight Heritage Service Manager, Simon Dear, Archivist and Joanna Stuiver, Search Room Assistant, all based at the Isle of Wight County Record Office, brought along a selection of documents, directories and registers. Volunteers from RSHG and the staff of the Record Office were kept busy with general explanation, discussion and dealing with enquiries. Some visitors were able to help by identification of individual people and places in photographs which were on display.

As there was only a relatively small selection of the RSHG Archive on display many people were keen to view more. Several appointments were made for future visits to Ryde Cemetery Heritage and Learning Centre where Ryde Social Heritage Group is based and its extensive research is stored.

Ryde Social Heritage Group would like to thank Ryde Library for the invitation to stage this event in what is an excellent venue.

The Group’s next event is a St. David’s Day Nature Walk at Ryde Cemetery on March 1st.