"Of
all national assets, archive are the most precious: They
are the gift of one generation to another and the extent
of our care of them marks the extent of our civilization."
Sir James Doughty, Dominion Archivist
of Canada, 1924.
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  What
is an Archives?
- The
Oak Bay Archives is a repository for original documents,
records, photographs and ephemera relevant to the District
of Oak Bay. An archives is also a facility where historical
records are available for public research.
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- How
does and archives differ from a museum?
- While
a museum deals in three dimensional items or artifacts,
archives preserve two dimensional documents, records,
photographs and rare ephemera. Paintings and electronic
records on tapes, CD, and DVD are also collected.
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- How
is the archival material stored and cared for?
- Material
acquired and appraised as having archival value is
listed, described and documented in an accession record.
It is preserved and stored in acid free folders and
boxes in a restricted and secure area of the archives.
Photographs are stored in clear protective sleeves.
Unlike a library, public access to archival material
is not allowed.
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- Who
may use the archives?
- Scholars,
students and the general public have access to the
archives. Researchers will be provided with requested
material, but may not remove it from the premises.
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- Can
researchers make copies of archival documents and
photographs?
- Generally
the archives staff will accept orders for copies, but
this will depend upon what restrictions are placed
on the file. A charge of 25 cents per page and cost
recovery charges for photographic reproduction will
be levied. Orders require at least 7 days for processing.
Digital transmission of copies depends on current availability
and staff time.
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- When
can I visit the Archives?
- Drop
in Tuesday 9:30 to noon
Thursday 1-3 pm
Or by appointment
Academic researchers and students are encouraged to make an appointment.
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What
is archival material?
-
Archival
material consists of original records, documents
and photographs or material that is extremely rare
and unique. For example: a family photograph album
is an archival document, while a scanned or photocopied
replica would be non-archival.
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- What
is non-archival material?
- The
archives maintain files of interest to patrons that
are non- archival. These consist of photocopied documents,
photographs and articles that are not original, rare
or unique. Non-archival documents are not subject to
the standards necessary for preservation of archival
material.
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- Can
family or business records be donated to the archives?
- Archives
are the best place for donors to preserve their precious
original records and documents. Your collection will
be preserved and stored in secure premises. Family
members or business associates wishing to view the
collection have access in perpetuity. Before donating
original documents, photographs and other materials
copies should be made for personal use.
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- Can
I research my home or property at the archives?
- Yes,
if you are the owner of the property. Building files
are available for over 200 homes; there is an inventory
of all residential buildings that contains relevant
dates. Plans and other records may be available from
the Building and Planning Department in the Municipal
Hall. Past owners may be researched at the Land Titles
Office and past owners and/or residents may be found
in old City Directories available at the main branch
of the Victoria Library or the City of Victoria Archives.
The Oak Bay Archives does not have a set of city directories
but we will be please to help you organize your research.
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