Family & Local History
Local and family history collections are available across Halton Libraries, with specialist collections based at Halton Lea Library and Widnes Library. Whether you're researching your ancestors, exploring local heritage or tracing historic places, our resources can help you uncover the past.
Picture Halton
Explore thousands of historic photographs capturing the people, places and events that shaped Halton.
Getting started with Family History
Discover the resources, records and tools available through Halton Libraries to help you begin tracing your family history.
Ancestry Library Edition
Access one of the world's largest genealogy resources on library computers.
Family History Help Sessions
Get guidance and supportfrom our regular free family history research sessions.
Historic Newspapers
Browse local newspapers and historic publications to uncover stories from the past.
Historic Maps
Explore old maps of Widnes, Runcorn and surrounding areas to see how the borough has changed.
Parish Registers
Research baptisms, marriages and burials using parish records held within our collections.
Halton Heritage
Learn more about local heritage projects, organisations and community history initiatives.
Explore Halton's History on YouTube
Step back in time with our Local History YouTube playlist, featuring fascinating stories from across Halton. Discover local landmarks, transport links, changing communities and key moments that have helped shape the borough through the years.