Last month my sister sent me a short blurb about the archives and as i always wanted to get background information on when my late dad and grandad first came to South Africa, I followed the link and started searching on their site.I found several references to similar names but what helped was that in my first passport i had a file reference number and thus got the right person.Yesterday i had the time to go and it was fascinating. I saw some pics of my dad when he came here as a 16 year old in of which I did not know about.There was so much to read that I will have to go back.Something about the Western Cape Archives and Records Service is that they provide public access to government records and private collections that are 20 or more years old. The archive is used for academic, government and private research.What seems to be the most popular research is Genealogy.

Took my parents to the archives today as they were really excited to trace their lineage. Sadly, the experience was dampened by the uncourteous manner in which were were handled by the head of client services(behind the counter). What upset me most is that she held that same tone and manner with my dad who is almost 80 years old. A little kindness and respect when addressing a person of any age, race or nationality is always welcome.

This was my first ever visit to the archives, I was super excited to go and do general research for a project. However, the head woman working at the counter in the back was extremely abrasive, I was completely shocked by the way she spoke with me. “service” was condescending to say the least, this makes me not want to come back which is a shame since these archives are for the public. Do better and learn to speak without being rude. Thank you

Its quite and the assistant is helpful and friendly

A great resource for genealogical research.Helpful staff are in attendance.

Treatment by two ladies at the queries leaves much to be desired. However, the ladies who make copies and completed forms for payment are friendly and very good. If it wasnt for the latter, I probably would have to wait longer than the hour I was there.