Tuesday, May 6 2025 | Time 18:41 Hrs(IST)
States » NorthPosted at: May 6 2025 3:41PM


Shimla MC’s 130-year-old archive reconnects American tourist with ancestral past

Shimla, May 6(UNI) In a heartwarming incident, an American woman visiting Shimla traced the death records of her ancestors who lived in the hill town during the British rule — thanks to the meticulous record-keeping of the Shimla Municipal Corporation.
The woman, currently visiting the city with an acquaintance, approached the health branch of the civic body on Monday afternoon and was able to identify her great-grandfather and his son through official records dating back to 1895.
Dr Chetan Chauhan, health officer of the Municipal Corporation, told UNI that the woman’s great-grandfather, James D. Vine, and his 16-year-old son had died in Shimla in September 1895. The family had originally migrated from England to America but had lived in Shimla for several years during the colonial period.
Upon her request, the staff at the Municipal Corporation retrieved the original entries confirming the deaths and promptly issued certificates. The woman grew emotional and expressed disbelief at the fact that such old and detailed records had been preserved with such care.
According to Corporation officials, the woman shared that her ancestors once lived in Franklin Cottage, located near the historic Christ Church. She also visited the cottage during her stay, connecting her present with a long-lost past.
The Shimla Municipal Corporation has archived over three lakh birth and death records from 1870 to 2015, including those of British nationals. Initially kept at the Town Hall, these records were later shifted to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Despite institutional challenges, the documents have been preserved with great care.
Although digitisation has begun, online access remains limited to domestic users. Nevertheless, the civic body’s commitment to historical preservation continues to attract visitors seeking links to their heritage.
UNI ML PRS
Tags: #Shimla MC’s 130-year-old archive reconnects American tourist with ancestral past
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