Algoma University is proud to be the repository for the Anglican Diocese of Algoma's archives. The archives are held in a climate controlled facility within the university's Arthur A. Wishart Library. The university received the first deposit of over 30 linear metres of archival materials in May 2009 from the Diocese; more accruals are expected.
The diocesan archives cover over 150 years of the documentary history of Northeastern Ontario from Mattawa in the east to Thunder Bay in the west. The archives are processed, arranged and described in an online archival catalogue according to Canada's Rules for Archival Description. As each record file is catalogued, it becomes searchable online. Please note that this is a catalogue of descriptions of the records not digitizations of the records themselves.
Review holdings at: http://archives.algomau.ca/main/holdings
Search holdings through the Search Box in the upper right corner of the screen: http://archives.algomau.ca
Accessing the Archives
Currently, staffing constraints prevent the Arthur A. Wishart Library from scheduling regular research hours in Diocesan Archives. However, physcial access can be gained by scheduling a research appointment (archives@algomauDOTca). All research requests are governed by the Diocesan Policy on Access to Parish Records..
Search Requests
Library staff can perform simple search requests for certified transcripts of Baptism, Confirmation, Marriage, and Burials, as well as preliminary genealogical or historical research requests that take no more than 30 minutes. All research requests are governed by the Diocesan Policy on Access to Parish Records.
These requests must be processed through the Synod Office using the attached form/fee schedule. Those who self-identify as Indigenous are except from the search fees. Once Algoma University receives the form and fees, the extracts of the requested records are sent to the Synod Office to have the certificate prepared. Normally, it is then forwarded back through the nearest clergy member so that appropriate identification may be requested before the release of the document.
This process is in place for consideration of Algoma U staff time. They are not able to deal with walk-in requests due to scheduling and staffing constraints. When requests go through appropriate channels the library staff are able to schedule the time required to deal with them so as not to interfere with their many other responsibilities.
Any additional genealogical or historical research beyond the first 30 minutes is subject to human resources available to complete the request. For more information, please contact Liz Hamel, Diocesan Office Administrative Assistant (adminassistant@dioceseofalgoma.com )
The Diocese of Algoma
Anglican (Episcopal) Church of Canada
P.O. Box 1168
619 Wellington Street East
Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 5N7
T: (705) 256-5061/ FAX: 705-946-1860
