Volunteers - Volunteers' Own Interests
One of our volunteers Godfrey Duffy, specialises in Irish Family History. He was able to contribute to the LEGACY project on minority groups which have made their homes in this region. His Irish Ancestry in this region dates back to the nineteenth century.
Another volunteer John Gallon is passionate about his home town Walker, Family History, Football and World War I. He has compiled so much information on the Lordship of Walker he is writing a book. Much of the information is sourced at TWAS.
"Over the years of doing family history research. I have hit many a 'brick wall'. So rather than waste time I decided to research the history of where I live. Using an 1890 publication about Walker as a guide I began my research.
"I found out there had been seven farms in Walker, not six as I had been led to believe and also the number of shipyards, mines etc. Walker was first on Tyneside to have a Chemical Industry and it had its own Ironworks.
"I am now able to assist people in their research. I enjoy research and helping people, so by helping people with research is doubly rewarding."
Members of the Jarrow & Hebburn Local History Group are passionate about their towns' heritage. Its communities, industry and development. Group volunteers dig deeply into sources of information only available at TWAS and make them more accessible to others.