15 Aug 2023

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Exploring DNA results, researching criminals in England and discovering your Scottish family are just three events in the upcoming Family History Expo.

The Christchurch Family History Expo 2023 will run from 18 to 20 August at Tūranga and will be packed with workshops, speakers and activities galore.

Events over the three day expo begin by taking your first steps on your family history journey and using freely available tools to build up your family knowledge, or joining with the Family History Librarians to discuss your research.

Further sessions include an introduction to caring for your family records, researching convict ancestors, or even a Family Fun Day.

The first session on Saturday morning is a conversation between Christchurch Deputy Mayor Pauline Cotter and Liz Grant, as they look at the 19th and early 20th century adventures of the Cotter Family in New Zealand.

The Tuakiri Family History Team have researched the four family trees of Ms Cotter’s grandparents – Cotter, Hanna, Muir and Kemp. This information has been assembled to be revealed, discussed, and presented to Ms Cotter.

Head of Information and Libraries Carolyn Robertson says this is a fantastic example of the resources available at Christchurch City Libraries. “The Family History team provide services to help customers develop knowledge about their identity, ancestors, whakapapa, and the place they call home.

“Our specialist staff help with finding information and using the resources and equipment in the collections, including viewing material from the Archives and exhibitions that reflect our local heritage.

“This session with Ms Cotter promises to be an entertaining and informative event.”

Booking for Adventures and Adversities: the Cotter Family Story is required and has no cost. View all the Expo sessions here.