The New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS) is one of the oldest genealogical libraries in the nation.  Located in Boston’s Historic Back Bay, it is a premiere location for research of one’s New England ancestors.  However, their holdings encompass more than published records from the six New England states.  A visit to the library showcases collections that may be lesser known to those assuming that it holds just what its name would indicate:  New England records.

New England was the starting point for many people who later lived in other parts of the country.  As a result, the library has collected within its holdings records pertaining to those people and the countries from whence they came.  In addition, in late 2009, their journal The New England Historic Genealogical Register (“The Register”) was joined by another publication entitled American Ancestors Journal.  This publication focuses on migrations out of New England, particularly to New York.  According to the NEHGS website, requests for information on New York ancestors runs second only to Massachusetts in quantity.  A website for this information has also been created at NewYorkAncestors.org.

Also of interest are the vast manuscript holdings in the R. Stanton Avery Collections.  The collection is a hidden gem of NEHGS and an attempt to highlight a portion of the holdings within the collection resulted in the publication Guide to the Manuscript Collections of the New England Historic Genealogical Society by Timothy Salls, the current archivist.

Not widely known is the international collection of reference works held at the society including but not limited to town records, county histories, and family histories from England, Ireland, Scotland, Europe, Asia and Australia.  In addition the library holds a significant amount of Canadian records.  But, records are not the only thing historical in the library.  Other gems for history buffs include John Hancock’s armchair and a variety of historical art works displayed at various places around the building.

The website for the library at http://www.newenglandancestors.org/ is the best way to check out the collections, catalogs, take a virtual tour, read a journal or two or do some research.  Basic services are free to non-members but to harness the full power of the site, membership is required.  For those interested in visiting the library – entry is free with membership.  Non-members pay a daily rate which at this writing was $15.00 for a day pass.