Old Colony Historical Society
Research by Mail
We have found that the most productive research takes place when
patrons visit
the Society in person and undertake their own research. When patrons are
not able to visit, we may conduct limited amounts of research for patrons by
correspondence using sources available to us.
We generally supply photocopies of the sources so that patrons may
interpret the information for themselves, judge the reliability, and cite
sources. For more intensive research and
sources not available to us at the OCHS, a list of professional researchers and
genealogists is provided.
·
Before research begins, the patron’s authorization of the research
fee is requested; we will invoice patrons for services as rendered. We will provide time estimates as
requested. Patrons may set a time limit
for their search.
·
Written research requests by e-mail or postal mail are encouraged,
though we are pleased to discuss the scope of our collections by phone or in
person. Patrons should supply their
postal mail addresses for our reply.
·
When submitting a request, patrons should be sure to supply all
pertinent details, including names, dates and especially places, since
events (birth, marriage, death) in
·
It is helpful when patrons provide information on sources already
consulted so we do not duplicate efforts.
·
Please note we receive over 175 Research by Mail requests each
year. Our small staff carefully
investigates each one, and while we endeavor to reply in a timely way, we
appreciate patrons’ patience in awaiting the results. Feel free to check on our progress by
telephone, e-mail, or postal mail.
Fees
OCHS Members: $15.00 per
hour, with a one-hour minimum, plus 15¢ per photocopy
Non-Members: $20.00 per
hour, with a one-hour minimum, plus 25¢ per photocopy
Contact
Phone: 508-822-1622 Fax: 508-880-6317
Postal address: Old Colony Historical Society, 66 Church
Green,
E-mail: OldColony@oldcolonyhistoricalsociety.org
Thank you for your
interest in research at the Old Colony Historical Society