What does the Archive do?
Archives are, in essence, the Island's written memory, an irreplaceable source of information about the past extending over many centuries. The Jersey Archive is responsible for preserving and promoting these unique resources and through them, Jersey’s Heritage and Culture.
What does the Archive hold?
Jersey Archive is the legal place of deposit for all public records created by the States of Jersey, States Departments and Committee's, the Court and Judicial systems, the Parishes, the Bailiff's Chambers and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Jersey Archive also collects private records of churches, local businesses, clubs and associations, individual and estate collections and film and sound archive.
What can I use the Archive for?
Many of our readers use the archive to research their family history or their house history. Researchers also use the archive to find out more about specific periods in Jersey's history with the results often being published in books or university theses. Archive records can also be used for legal research, by members of the construction profession and as evidence of past actions.
Where is the Archive?
Jersey Archive is on Clarence Road. It is roughly 30 metres along from the bottom of College Hill. Parking is available on site.
When are you open?
Jersey Archive is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am-1pm and from 2pm-5pm; the reception area remains open from 9am-5pm. We are also open on the last Thursday of the month (excluding December) until 7pm and on the third Saturday of the month until 1pm.
How do I become an Archive member?
You can register as an Archive Reader in the reception area of the Archive during opening hours. Registration is free but does require either a passport or driving licence to be shown. The process should only take about 10 minutes. Once you have registered your Archive reader’s card will allow you to order and view original material from the Archive’s strong rooms.
I’ve never been to the Archive, will there be someone to help me?
There will always be a member of staff on hand to help you in the helpdesk area. We also work with the Channel Island Family History Society; they provide volunteers who may also be able to assist. Please be aware that during busy periods staff and volunteers may need to assist multiple customers. We also offer a research service that costs £20 per hour. There is no charge for using the Archive in person.
Can I order birth/marriage/death certificates from the Archive?
For certificates pertaining to life events (Birth/Baptism, Marriage, Death/Burial) prior to 1842 we can make copies of transcriptions taken from original registers. For certificates of life events taking place after 1842 you will need to contact the Superintendent Registrar’s Office. You can view certificates or obtain copies from their office in the Royal Square. The Archive holds indexes to the post 1842 certificates in the helpdesk area should you wish to discover the relevant volume and page number before you visit the Registrar’s Office.
How much do you charge for photocopying?
Please see the following link to our table of fees. Please note that large orders will be charged for the time taken rather than per page.
How do I order photocopies remotely?
You can order photocopies remotely by contacting us by email: archives@jerseyheritage.org or, by writing to:
Jersey Archive
Clarence Road
St Helier
Jersey
JE2 4JY
Please note that you do not have to be an Archive member in order to request photocopies.
Can I deposit my old documents with the Archive?
Yes. However, the Archive has limited storage space and cannot accept all that is offered. You may, therefore, wish to contact the Archive (see above) in order to make an appointment with one of the Archivists who can view and discuss your potential deposit. The following link may be of interest if you are considering depositing material with the Archive: Acquisitions Policy.