Revolutionary War Records Are First Fruits Of New Records Access Program
FamilySearch teams with service providers to expedite historic records access
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH—FamilySearch and Footnote announced today the first project of the new Records Access program—to digitize and index the historic U.S. Revolutionary War Pension records. Through the program, FamilySearch helps archives and other record custodians digitize, preserve, and publish their collections online. A key component of the program allows FamilySearch and archives to team with genealogy websites like Footnote to provide significant collections of genealogical and historical records online. FamilySearch is the world’s largest provider of genealogical information.
Footnote is one of the new breed of genealogy websites working with FamilySearch publish the world’s records in concert with archives around the world. As part of the agreement, FamilySearch will digitize the images currently held in the National Archives Record and Administration’s collection (NARA) in Washington, D.C., and Footnote will create the electronic indexes. When complete, the indexes and images will be viewable at Family History Centers and at Footnote.com. Indexes will also be available at FamilySearch.org. Numerous other national and international projects are under development at this time and will be announced as agreements are signed or data is published. “Record custodians worldwide are experiencing growing pressure to provide access to their records online while maintaining control and ownership. At the same time, websites that provide digitizing and publishing services are struggling with the staggering costs,” said Wayne Metcalfe, who directs the Records Services for FamilySearch. “The new Record Access program takes advantage of FamilySearch’s resources and creates an economical and effective forum where record custodians and genealogy websites can work together to accomplish their respective objectives,” added Metcalfe.
FamilySearch’s new Records Access program provides tools and assistance to record custodians who want to publish their collection using state-of-the-art digital cameras, software, and web-based applications. FamilySearch Records Services representatives worldwide can work with archivists to determine how FamilySearch and affiliates can help them achieve their digital preservation and publication needs.
FamilySearch (historically the Genealogical Society of Utah) is a nonprofit organization sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. FamilySearch maintains the world’s largest repository of genealogical resources accessed through FamilySearch.org, the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, and over 4,500 family history centers in 70 countries.
Footnote is a subscription-based website that features searchable original documents that provide users with an unaltered view of the events, places, and people that shaped the American nation and the world. At Footnote.com, visitors are invited to share, discuss, and collaborate on their discoveries with friends, family, and colleagues.
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