Creating Archives, Making History: D.A. Chart (1878–1960)

The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland and the Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland would like to invite you to a special event celebrating the legacy of PRONI’s first Deputy Keeper. This event is part of the PRONI100 centenary programme.

Join us for a one-day symposium to celebrate the life and work of the remarkable archivist and historian, David Alfred Chart (1878-1960). An archivist and scholar, Chart began his career in Dublin, but is best known as the primary figure in the foundation of the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) in 1923. As deputy keeper, he subsequently expanded PRONI’s scope beyond official records, incorporating family and landed estate records. Chart’s dedication to accessibility and knowledge ensured PRONI would be an institution that transcended mere archiving, becoming a hub of knowledge and accessibility for historical records. This symposium will also delve into Chart’s academic writings and editorial work, such as his influential books on Irish history and genealogy. It will bring together scholars and experts from across Britain and Ireland to explore Chart’s multifaceted career and the profound impact he had on the world of archives, historical research, and civil society.

****THIS IS AN ONSITE EVENT ONLY****