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Last modified: 24 Jan 2023 9:51am

Heritage

People searching for objects and photographs from Selwyn’s past can now find a growing online catalogue of items at their fingertips.

Several historical societies in Selwyn have begun adding their collections to online platform, eHive, in a bid to digitally catalogue and share their collections with the wider public.

The initiative has been driven by Dunsandel Historic Society President, Dr Mike Noonan who applied to Council’s new Community History Fund for a grant to buy eHive user subscriptions.

Dr Noonan says until now, much of Selwyn’s vast collection of photographs and records of artefacts had not been available online, and this made it difficult for people to see what existed.

“I’m really passionate about Selwyn’s history and thought this is something I could do to help preserve and share our past with anyone who is interested.”

Dunsandel Historic Society, on behalf of the Selwyn Heritage and History Network was awarded $12,480 from the Community History Fund, with groups including Dunsandel, Ellesmere, Leeston, Ellesmere Heritage Park, Arthur’s Pass, Lincoln, Glentunnel and Hororata all using eHive subscriptions to upload their records. Funding still remains for other groups to join.

Dr Noonan says the online tool will help museums see what local artefacts are available to be publicly displayed.

The collections can be found by Googling one of the participating historical societies mentioned above, along with the word ‘eHive’. For example, ‘Dunsandel Historic Society eHive’.

The Selwyn Community History Fund is now open for applications until 30 April 2023. It is designed to support community groups to protect and promote the district’s history; provide greater access to Selwyn’s past; assist residents and visitors to learn about local history; and celebrate our unique stories and places.

Application forms and criteria can be found at selwyn.govt.nz/services/funding-And-grants/selwyn-community-history-fund