After discovering that my G Grand Uncle's diaries are archived (https://www.british-genealogy.com/fo...ealogy-JACKPOT!!) I made my first visit along with my 2 sisters to the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre.

The diaries were waiting for us as arranged and we set to work reading and photographing(permit £9.00)them. I took my tripod but I was able to use their own purpose built camera stand with lighting. This helped no end and I was able to photograph 15 diaries,(there are over 40 total) 1118 pictures in all, taking care to keep them in chronological order.

We found the staff very helpful and they are even helping me with tracing the person who donated the diaries to the centre.

I spent several hours at home making each diary into a PDF file and have read the first one, 1904. 1905 is missing so I am half way through 1906. A fascinating insight into his daily life. Having glimpsed at the odd entry as I was photographing them, I know his son went to war so I should be able to trace his military history. Who knows what else I will find.

I am making notes of any significant events, birthdays,illness,accidents,house moves etc.

Two more visits to the Archives should suffice to photograph the remaining diaries but for now I have many hours of interesting reading ahead.