Public Databases
Below are a list of databases that were used throughout these projects and assignments. All are free and open to public access. Click on the name to access the database.
1) The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC): This database contains all of the grave and cemetery information of all Commonwealth war dead throughout various conflicts.
2) Circumstances of Death Registry: This database provides specific information on the causes of death for particular Canadian soldiers in World War One. These files have not have been accessible to the public until recently. Unfortunately, all records after the last name Sims were destroyed in a fire in the archives during the 1960's and are not present.
3) Attestation Paper Database: This database has digitalized copies of all attestation papers for each Canadian soldier from World War One (over 600,000). These "contracts" were signed by each soldier before they were accepted into military service. Most have two sides to their form. Recently, some digital files have been extended on this site to include entire service records that include pay stubs, discipline records, hospital records, and discharge forms to name a few. These additional files will appear on the right side bar under the title "Digital Service File".
4) War Diaries Database: This database provides a collection of World War One diaries and regimental/battalion report collections. These reports can outline the movements of units, casualty reports, and battle reports. Good for finding locations and details of family members who served overseas.
5) The Library and Archives of Canada: This database is the starting point for access to the entire archives located in Ottawa. Here, you can search online collections, primary sources, and historical events within Canada's past.
6) Nova Scotia Provincial Archives: This site links users to countless pieces of information on Nova Scotian history. Everything from genealogy, town history, military history, a collection of over 900 historical photos, and helpful hints on how to conduct research either online or at the archives in Halifax.
7) Canada War Museum Propaganda Database: This database has a collection of World War One and Two Canadian propaganda posters and some detail on the purposes and style used by the artists. A great spot to see the unique styles and formats of these great resources.
2) Circumstances of Death Registry: This database provides specific information on the causes of death for particular Canadian soldiers in World War One. These files have not have been accessible to the public until recently. Unfortunately, all records after the last name Sims were destroyed in a fire in the archives during the 1960's and are not present.
3) Attestation Paper Database: This database has digitalized copies of all attestation papers for each Canadian soldier from World War One (over 600,000). These "contracts" were signed by each soldier before they were accepted into military service. Most have two sides to their form. Recently, some digital files have been extended on this site to include entire service records that include pay stubs, discipline records, hospital records, and discharge forms to name a few. These additional files will appear on the right side bar under the title "Digital Service File".
4) War Diaries Database: This database provides a collection of World War One diaries and regimental/battalion report collections. These reports can outline the movements of units, casualty reports, and battle reports. Good for finding locations and details of family members who served overseas.
5) The Library and Archives of Canada: This database is the starting point for access to the entire archives located in Ottawa. Here, you can search online collections, primary sources, and historical events within Canada's past.
6) Nova Scotia Provincial Archives: This site links users to countless pieces of information on Nova Scotian history. Everything from genealogy, town history, military history, a collection of over 900 historical photos, and helpful hints on how to conduct research either online or at the archives in Halifax.
7) Canada War Museum Propaganda Database: This database has a collection of World War One and Two Canadian propaganda posters and some detail on the purposes and style used by the artists. A great spot to see the unique styles and formats of these great resources.