Genealogical Research Service

Purpose 

The Esther Clark Wright Archives and the Atlantic Baptist Archives held at Acadia University offer a fee-based genealogical research service for researchers unable to visit Archives & Special Collections in person. This service is performed by Archives & Special Collections staff. This policy takes effect June 1, 2026. 

Scope and Limitations 

This service applies to genealogical requests based on files held in the archival collections at Acadia University. The Archives reserves the right to limit the scope of searches and may refer requestors to professional genealogical services for requests that exceed what staff are reasonably able to accommodate, particularly during periods of high demand. We are unable to accommodate rush requests. Searches are conducted on a first-come, first-served basis and may take several weeks. The Archives generally does not hold vital records (i.e. birth, baptismal, marriage, or death certificates). Genealogical evidence is generally limited to names on church membership lists and other informal documentation. Because of this, the Archives is unable to provide certified copies of results. 

Records held in the Atlantic Baptist Archives remain the property of the depositing church. Staff will confirm whether a name appears in the relevant file. If the requestor wishes to obtain a copy of the record, they must first obtain written permission from the depositing institution, or, in the case of closed churches, the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada. 

Research Process 

To perform a search, staff may require the requestor to conduct preliminary online research to help identify relevant files before the search is undertaken. Requestors may expect correspondence with staff to clarify details of the request. Staff will make reasonable efforts to locate the requested information but cannot guarantee results. Payment is required for all searches, even those with a null result.

Fees 

A fee of $30.00 CAD applies per name, per file consulted. For example, searching for two names across two files would result in four charges of $30.00 CAD for a total of $120.00 CAD. Payment is required in full before any results are released to the requestor.  

Submit a Request 

To initiate a research request, please complete the form below. A member of staff will follow up via email to discuss the details of your request before any search is undertaken. 

Please confirm that you have read and understood the following before submitting your request: 

I understand searches are conducted on a first-come first-served basis and may take several weeks to complete.

I understand the Archives generally does not hold vital records and that the results may not include birth dates, ages, or other vital information.

I understand that payment does not guarantee results and is required regardless of the outcome of the search before results are released.

I understand that copies of records held in the Atlantic Baptist Archives require written permission from the depositing institution or the CBAC, and if I would like a copy I am required to contact the institution to receive permission.