Associated Societies

Our Associated Societies bring together organisations dedicated to the study and celebration of heraldry, genealogy, and family history. These societies play a vital role in preserving historical knowledge, encouraging research, and fostering communities of shared interest across the UK and beyond.

The Association of Genealogist and Researchers in Archives

The Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (AGRA) represents accredited professional genealogists and family history researchers, promoting high standards of research and ethical practice. Many AGRA members having trained or studied at IHGS and Graduates of the IHGS Higher Certificate and Diploma in Genealogy are granted differing exemptions for some elements of AGRA;s membership application process, reflecting a shared commitment to education, and excellence in genealogical and heraldic research.

The Register of Qualified Genealogists

The Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG) promotes high standards of professional practice among genealogists and family history researchers. RQG accept the Diploma in Genealogy as qualification for membership and students on the Correspondence Course in Genealogy can join RQG as student members. We have a shared commitment to excellence, ethics, and scholarly research.

Family History Federation

The Family History Federation is a umbrella organisation representing family history societies across England, Wales and Ireland. It supports and promotes the study of genealogy and local history, helping individuals explore their family roots through research, education and collaboration. The Federation provides guidance, resources and networking opportunities for both societies and individual researchers, playing an important role in strengthening the family history community. IHGS is a member of the Federation.

The Heraldry Society

The Heraldry Society is dedicated to the study and promotion of heraldry in all its historical, artistic, and cultural forms. It brings together scholars, enthusiasts, and practitioners with an interest in coats of arms and related traditions, encouraging research, education, and public understanding through lectures, publications, and events. 

In conjunction with the Heraldry Society, IHGS offers Heraldry examinations for all levels.

Kent Family History Society

The Kent Family History Society, which uses our address of 80 Northgate, supports anyone researching family history in Kent and the surrounding areas. The Society offers access to a wide range of resources, including publications, online materials and transcriptions of local records, as well as talks, events and opportunities to connect with other researchers. It plays an important role in preserving local heritage and helping people explore their family connections within the county.

Bath Heraldry Society

The Bath Heraldry Society is devoted to the study and appreciation of heraldry, with a particular interest in its historical, artistic, and local significance. The society provides a welcoming forum for both newcomers and experienced enthusiasts, offering lectures, meetings, and opportunities for discussion that promote a deeper understanding of armorial traditions and their place within Britain’s heritage.

Ancestry

Ancestry is an online genealogy subscription platform that allows users to research family history through historical records, family trees, and DNA services. Ancestry hosts a number of collections held at IHGS, including Pallot Marriage Index, Gretna Green Marriages, The Tyler Collection and the Andrews Collection. You can also find digital copies of IHGS Parish Maps. 

Findmypast

Findmypast is a British online family history subscription service that provides access to millions of historical records, helping people trace their ancestry and build family trees. You may also find IHGS maps through Findmpast.

FamilySearch

FamilySearch is a free, non-profit genealogy website that offers access to billions of historical records to help people discover and preserve their family history. We are a FamilySearch affiliated library.