What is the Marsh Collection?
The Marsh Collection Society is a non-profit organization established in 1983. It was initially based on the collection of local historic papers, books and artifacts gathered throughout their lives by the late Arthur W. Marsh (1872-1940), his son John A. Marsh (1901-1993) and his daughter Helen M. Marsh (1900-1986), editors and publishers of the Amherstburg Echo for over 80 years. It was their wish and mandate of the Society “to collect, preserve and encourage research into the heritage of Amherstburg and the lower Detroit River district” and to maintain a facility and staff who would assist researchers of local history and genealogy.
The research centre officially opened on October 1, 1994 at 235A Dalhousie Street. Since then, a wealth of local information has been added to the “collection” – genealogy, books, photos, land records, etc.
How does one use the collection?
The Marsh Historical Collection is presently open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday through Friday. While there is no charge for the use of materials, there is a small fee for photocopies, laser prints, etc. Donations are most gratefully accepted and a receipt for income tax purposes can be obtained for any donation of $50 or more.
Will you compile a report for me?
Staff is available for assistance; however, we cannot conduct in-depth research or genealogical searches on your behalf. While we are usually able to answer quick-reference questions (ie, a specific question about a specific person) over the phone or by e-mail, we encourage researchers to visit our facility in person, where staff will be available to assist you. If that is impossible, we can recommend a researcher for hire.
Highlights of the Collection:
- Amherstburg Echo on microfilm from 1874 to present.
- Indexes to Echo Births, Marriages and Deaths 1874-1959.
- Over 1000 genealogy files on local families.
- Information files on all aspects of Amherstburg’s history – churches, schools, events, organizations, parks, sports, businesses etc.
- Land instruments for Amherstburg and Malden, 1867-1955 (indexed).
- Over 4500 catalogued photographs.
- Reference books on local, Ontario and Canadian history, as well as a large number of Great Lakes books and periodicals.
The Marsh Collection is a member of the following heritage organizations:
- Amherstburg Museums & Galleries
- Archives Assn. of Ontario
- Assn. for Great Lakes Maritime History
- Essex County Historical Society
- Great Lakes Historical Society
- Ontario Genealogical Society
- Ontario Historical Society
- Ontario Museums Assn.
