Federation Of Family History Societies

National Burial Index

NBI Third Edition - More data required

 

We are sure that Family History Societies are being asked quite frequently when the next edition of the NBI will appear. The NBI team cannot give a definite answer because we have not yet reached a number of new entries that would justify the production of a 3rd edition. This will happen more quickly if we can, at least, double the two million records we have received over the past three years.

Over the next year we need to concentrate on finding additional burial record sources, whether they be from parish records, non-conformist records, cemeteries, or crematoria. We have no restriction on an acceptable date range nor is there a restriction on unchecked records. In our experience of unchecked records, an error rate of 10 percent implies that 90 percent is correct! No matter how many entries - one parish with hundreds or thousands of entries - all are welcome.

You might ask why we are so keen to promote the NBI when we have similar records on FamilyHistoryOnline. Despite the popularity of the Internet, many people still prefer the concept of a DVD which can be used whenever they wish and without the small constraint of a 'pay per view' concept. Further to this all burial data is non exclusive: societies hold their own databases for searches, publish in whatever media they wish be it paper, CD, microfiche etc. It has been proved that there is a market for data in as many forms as possible which all support funding for a society and our Federation, and all promote the especial work of both. There is a serious threat to future finances from many directions and we on the NBI team wish to ensure the best possible advantages, while we can, to all FFHS members.

One of the main reasons for being a society is to make indexes and transcriptions more readily available, firstly to its own members then more widely. Society projects that do this are successful but can be enhanced by collaboration through the Federation. The NBI is, potentially, a good example of this, but its value is lessened by non-participation or only partial work done in some areas. National projects should pull member societies together and are an important source of revenue for all.

Yes, we are a long way from the target but if every member society were prepared to let the NBI team have burial records that have been computerised for any project work, such as parish register transcriptions, then we would be well on the way to achieving the number we require so that the 3rd edition is viable.

So, can you think of any additional records sources that you may have access to and may be able to send us? We can handle data in almost any electronic form such as word processor, spreadsheet, Access, etc. Have you considered taking part in this project if you have not done so already?

The NBI is a unique index which should not be discarded lightly and is well renowned throughout the genealogical world as a quality index from our FFHS whether your society contributed or not. The NBI team therefore appeal to you to permit the FFHS to publish any further burial data you may have. Don't delay - give this serious consideration - and please contact us.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Carol McLee

 

Carol McLee, Project Leader, tel 01642 787305

Peter Underwood, Data Manager, tel 01296 612575

Peter Lord, Data Transference, tel 01484 718576

 

If you belong to a Family History Society please bring this to the attention of your committee and those involved in project work.