Resources

This section will be developed progressively to become a major repository of free articles and content for researchers. Links will be added as they become available

  • A major repository of free articles and content for researchers
  • A gateway to resources of all kinds.

Unlock the Past articles and other content - click title to access

The content in this section is generally free. The free articles may link to other paid content.

  • Beginners how to guides
  • General interest
  • Guides to records
  • Genealogy software - choosing and using program
  • Online content sites - guides to what is available and how to get the most from it
  • Blogs
  • Audio and video
  • Databases and indexes 
  • Free sample files and indexes
     ... other categories as needed

We are open to submissions of articles, blogs or data you would like to offer free online. As well as being a contributor to the benefit of others this can be a great way to introduce a research project you are doing or a book or service you offer, e.g. a synopsis or sample chapter from a book or index to a larger database you publish. Please send submissions to content@unlockthepast.com.au

Paid content or products can be listed under Gateway to other resources.

Gateway to other resources

This will be mainly information contributed by societies, libraries and other organisations as well as those offering products and services of interest to users of this site. We will be adding further information and online forms for submissions to this section soon. Until then you may send expressions of interest or suggestions to alan@unlockthepast.com.au

Societies, libraries and other heritage organisations

Family history societies
Historical societies
Specialist societies
Archives and record offices
Libraries with historical and genealogical collections - to come
One name studies
Museums
Record offices & archives
Land registries
Family history centres (LDS)
Registrars of births, marriages & deaths
Wills and probate repositories
Cemeteries & crematoria
Other heritage organisations

Online resources and social media sites

Australian Genealogy & History Blogs
Twitter - directory of history, genealogy twitter sites
Online data sites - free and subscription sites
Message boards and forums

Publishers and resellers

Books and maps
CD and online publishers
Magazines and other periodicals

Professional services

Professional researchers
Transcription services
Speakers - register of those offering their speaking services
Courses - register for online or live courses
Printing, scanning and CD production
Translators
Family history tree charting and heritage scrap booking products and services
Heritage tourism, travel and accommodation

Other gateway sites

Coraweb - a great gateway site for Australians tracing family history
Cyndis List - 270,000 links worldwide for family historians