AUGUST is National Family History Month, and to celebrate Wollongong City Libraries is encouraging people to explore their own family stories or to learn more about those from the past who’ve called the city home.

Throughout the month of August there will be a range of events, displays and opportunities for people of all ages to learn more about the unique history of the City of Wollongong by looking at the everyday experiences of ordinary people.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said that the Illawarra community is made of a vibrant and fascinating collection of family stories.

“This National Family History Month, we’re celebrating the people who have made the City of Wollongong their home. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s this diversity that has made our community what it is today,” Cr Bradbery said.

“Family History is a personal discovery that taps into our sense of identity. For many who delve into researching their family trees, understanding who we are and where we come from forms part of the story we tell about ourselves. As a city of people of diverse backgrounds there are many interesting stories to be discovered.

“I encourage everyone to use this month as an excuse to start learning more about their own family history. Come and visit the photographic exhibition at Wollongong Library, speak to a volunteer, explore the Illawarra Images collection, and participate in a workshop. This is your call to get curious about your history and perhaps you can learn something about your family that surprises you.”

How can you celebrate National Family Month?

The Illawarra Families exhibition

This new photographic exhibition is on display all month at the Wollongong Library. Take a look at the collection of historical photos from the formal studio photographs of people in their finest frills and hats, to informal snaps of people enjoying Wollongong’s beaches, playing sport and making music together from the library’s Illawarra Images collection.

Visit the Wollongong Library or view the exhibition online via the Illawarra Stories website.

Discover the Illawarra Images collection

There are more than 40,000 photographs of Wollongong and surrounding area in the Wollongong City Libraries Illawarra Images collection dating back to the 1800s. Jump online today to explore the collection and discover people, places, buildings and events from years past.

Explore your family history with help from the Illawarra Family History Group volunteers

Every family has a story to tell, and the Illawarra Family History Group volunteers are ready to help you find out more. Volunteers are available at Wollongong Library (meet them on level one) every Wednesday and Friday morning from 9.30am-12noon.

Free Family History workshops

Want to learn how you can trace your family history? The Illawarra Family History Group volunteers are holding three free workshops that discuss different techniques and tools for doing research.

Visit the Eventbrite for more event details.

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