SUBJECT AND BIOGRAPHY FILES

The Archives has subject and biography files which are excellent places to start your research. These vertical files contain copies of information from our archives such as newspaper articles and clippings, photographs, notes and obituaries for example. They are excellent finding aids relating to particular subjects. There is a list of our subject files here, which can be viewed at the archives. Biography files contain family information and obituaries.

NEWSPAPERS

Back issues of newspapers are a popular item for research. We have copies of the Chilliwack Progress dating from 1891 - current. 1891 - 1981 copies are available on microfilm with 1980 - current being hard copies. We also have hard copies of the Chilliwack Times ca. 1980's - current. ** We are hoping to raise enough funds to digitize the newspapers in 2013. If you'd like to donate to this cause, or sponsor a 'year' of the paper, please contact the Museum or Archives. (604-795-5210)

LOCAL HISTORY BOOKS

The Archives has a library of local history and relevant history books to this area, as well as a rare book collection. These books are not available for loan, but you may read the books at the archives. The books may be searched on our online collection database.

PHOTOGRAPHS & MEDIA

We have many photographs that relate to people, places, industry and politics in Chilliwack. The best way to search our photographs is on our web database, although you may also visit the archives to view and search photographs using our photograph finding aids. Other photographic media consists of film, video and DVD formats.

CHILLIWACK MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT RECORDS

We are the repository for city records, including council packages, Township and City of Chilliwack minutes, tax records, police court record books, by-laws etc. Visit the archives to view the City of Chilliwack fonds numbered Add. Mss. 373. The finding aid for AM 373 is now online.

ORAL HISTORIES

The Chilliwack Historical Society has captured many oral histories over the years which are available to listen to at the archives. A collection of Oliver Wells oral history tapes is particularly popular in relation to his book: "The Chilliwacks and Their Neighbours".

ARTWORK

We have a selection of artwork which is part of our archival collections. This artwork is available for viewing on our website.

ARCHIVAL RECORDS

We have a long list of archival records pertaining to Chilliwack families, organizations, businesses and other groups. Many of these records are on our database, but must be viewed at the archives. Digital copies of these records are not yet available for viewing over the internet. Fonds level descriptions of records are available on our online website. You may also browse a partial list of finding aids here.

COMMUNITY DIRECTORIES

Community directories are excellent resources when looking up people, places or businesses. We have Chilliwack directories, including many reverse directories from 1882 - current. Note that directories prior to 1937 will list names, but not addresses, and we do not have every year in our collection.

MAPS

Maps are a popular resource to access here at the archives. We have maps showing roads, geographic features, flooding information, fire insurance maps and city boundaries. View our inventory of maps.

ACCESS

Researchers do not have to make an appointment to visit the archives, but are required to sign in once here. If you are coming from a distance, phoning ahead (604.795.9255) will ensure staff are prepared for your arrival. Materials cannot be removed from the archives, the archives are equipped with a reading room for your research needs. Space for research is available on a first come, first serve basis. The Archives is wheelchair accessible.