Researchers using archives are often puzzled as to why we ask them to register, and leave all bags and coats in a locker before they may use the collection. It is because archives, libraries, and museums have been pillaged in the past of valuable collections, and the job of an archive is to protect these items, whether from the elements or thieves. Continue Reading »
The words “muster roll” flow easily off the tongue of a military historian or veteran genealogist. Some researchers, however, may have some recollection of the term, but are unsure as to its exact nature. Continue Reading »
At the head of Cape Sable, Nova Scotia, in 1831, the end came for seven sailors belonging to the brig Eclipse like many others employed in this potentially lethal occupation. The story of the crew of the Eclipse is just one of the dramas that is revealed through common, local county court documents. The primary documents assembled below demonstrate the very practical concerns surrounding shipwreck deaths and the treatment of its victims. Continue Reading »
With open discussions about mental health and mental illness becoming much more prominent and accepted in contemporary culture, it is interesting to track the history of mental health care and responses to mental illness in Canada. In fact, for New Brunswickers, it can be surprising to discover that the roots of Canada’s mental health care can actually be found in our own back yard: loyalist Saint John County. Continue Reading »
In loyalist Saint John County, the condemnation of crime and “evil” played a big role in the maintenance of a proper and stable community. As explained in a previous blog post, Saint John County placed high value on having a powerful justice system. Continue Reading »
“I need a job” says one bleary eyed and impoverished student to another; “one that is within my academic field.” However, in order to eventually get that dream job instead of a nightmare career (where the employee watches the clock tick to 4:30 with hungry eyes and assumes the running position), a person needs experience. What does “experience” even mean, and why is a student’s degree not enough? Continue Reading »
The naming of an individual can offer insight into the worldview of the name giver, including perspective on their religious, national, ethnic, and gender identities. The culture of people of African descent in North America during the eighteenth century is particularly difficult to research using the standard historical record because of their lack of representation among written documents. Continue Reading »
