The Importance of Research for Writers …. And some pitfalls Part 3

 

This article is based on a presentation I gave about the importance of research for writers and is being published in four parts. 

Examples from my own research for my three published books and my current project (the biography of Berenice Walters, the Dingo Lady) are in blue.

 

 

 

Specialist organisations

Historical Societies and Government Archives

Historical societies, government archives, libraries, and newspapers are progressively digitising their records. Here, in Australia and most countries, State and Federal Governments also make archival collections available for viewing and, in some cases, copying.
Most historical societies do not put their full collection of photos on the internet (and I don’t blame them) but you may be surprised at what they have in their archives. They usually ask a small research fee or charge for copies of images. Please remember these people are mostly volunteers caring for our heritage. Income sources like this may be their only means to continue their work.

Example

In Berenice’s notes about her life she mentioned the name of a road I was not familiar with although I had lived in the district for many years. I found the road on an old Gregory’s Street Directory online. The area was very different to what I remembered but it was also 25 years before I have moved there. I was able to clarify not only where the road was (it was now a major arterial road in the Sydney suburbs) but the interesting history behind its name thanks to the efforts and assistance of the local historical society.

Another historical society was able to provide me with photos important to the biography I am writing.

Another great source of historical information is https://archive.org/. Many records on this site are copyright free.

The Births, Deaths & Marriages Office and Land Titles Office are also great sources but fees do apply.

Libraries – physical and online

I love libraries but, the resources of the local library where I lived at the time of writing my books were limited. That doesn’t mean I didn’t bother them – and often.

One of my favourite websites is Trove. Trove is a website set up by the National Library of Australia containing comprehensive data on Australian resources held in libraries across Australia including books, images, historic newspapers, maps, archives and more. I am sure other countries have similar data bases.

Once I find something of interest, I take the information to my local library and they request a copy as an interlibrary loan.

If the publication or document is not available, I can request copies (within the bounds of copyright).

Example.

When researching additional information for Angel with Drumsticks, I knew a newspaper in Rome had covered the Messa dei Giovani. I was able to obtain a copy through a major library here in Australia.

People

Ask an Expert.

Writers, even if not well known, can open doors by saying “I’m a writer, and I’m trying to get the facts right.” If you have a question about a police procedure, ask your local police, if you have a medical question, ask a doctor.

Example

I needed to check information about aboriginal history and legends in my local area. I contacted a couple who are Elders and Knowledgeholders of the Dharawal people and only too happy to tell me all I needed to know.

Your Friends.

Let them know what you are writing about and what you are trying to find out. You may be surprised at their knowledge of the topic and resources you can access.

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