The Jersey Archive was established in 1993 to collect and preserve the records, no matter what their physical form, of the States of Jersey, States Committees and Departments, the Royal Court, H.E. Lieutenant-Governor, Parishes, Churches, Businesses, Societies, and individuals relating to the Island.
In 2002 the Public Records (Jersey) Law was passed by the States. The Law establishes Jersey Heritage as the official body with responsibility for the selection, collection, conservation of and provision of access to all records produced by public bodies. The long term preservation and security of the records in our care is our highest priority and we offer advice on conservation of records and preserving your own documents and memorabilia.
Jersey Heritage also accepts records from private businesses, clubs, associations, charities, families and individuals. Records may be donated, or deposited on long term loan whereby ownership remains with the depositor. All our donors and depositors will receive a receipt and professionally prepared catalogue of the records. There is no charge for depositing records with us.
As well as collecting records Jersey Heritage is committed to making them and information about them as widely available to the public as possible. Individuals can visit the Jersey Archive in person or use our enquiries and research service. The Jersey Heritage Open Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) allows you to search online for any names, places or subjects you are interested in with a detailed search option also available. Please be aware of our Archive regulations.
The Jersey Archive holds records on all aspects of Jersey’s history. Researchers can use archive resources to trace their family history, house history or to find out more about the German Occupation. Information leaflets are available on a variety of subjects. Jersey Archive also holds the collections of the Channel Islands Family History Society.
Staff at the Jersey Archive can also assist with legal enquiries and property research for the construction profession. We also offer talks and tours and education services.
We are currently developing short video presentations based on talks given by Archive staff. The first of these can be seen here: Witchcraft in Jersey. Please let us know if you would like to see more of these talks.
Jersey Archive is on Clarence Road, St Helier
Opening times
9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Late opening last Thursday in the month to 7pm.
For information on Saturday opening click here.