Hello - my name is Rachel and I am the Administrator for Heritage Services. When the History Centre was opened we were set the target of attracting 20,000 visitors in 2008/9. This challenging target was based on previous visitor numbers to the various Heritage Services, previously  in different locations around the county.

Folk Arts Launch  

We are delighted to report that not only did we reach the target, we exceeded it with 20,206 visitors recorded from April 1 2008 - March 31 2009. This is a fantastic achievement and offers an opportunity to share some details of our success. 

During this year we have held Open Days, lectures and an extensive programme of tours and visits by groups from all parts of Wiltshire County and Swindon Borough Council. Our services have hosted meetings and training sessions.  We have also hosted visits from primary and secondary schools, from Record Offices around the country and from architects and builders who have been interested in the storage and conservation of the archives we hold. In addition, our Education Room has been regularly used as a useful venue for a wide range of groups for training and meetings - from local Family History groups to surveyors, from Council groups to England Netball!

 History Centre staff at the 2008 Open Day

One of the interesting observations we have made concerns the customers using the search rooms. Some customers travel long distances to use our archives. In fact 40% live outside Wiltshire, including many from overseas. We have had visitors from USA, Kenya, Australia, Europe to name a view. Many of these visitors come to research their family history and are starting their journey to discover more about their ancestors, while others come to find out the history of their house, village or local community or to see archaeologists or the Wiltshire Buildings Record Team.

Whatever the reason for coming, we know the increased interest in Heritage generally, the success of television programmes such as ‘Who Do you Think You Are?'  and the interest generated by our new building have all contributed to our success.  We would like to say a big ‘thank you' to the visitors who have used the Centre so far ....... and a big ‘welcome' to those who visit us in the future!