Exhibits at the exhibition. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

An exhibition on family genealogy records and literary works kicked off recently at the Nantong Library in Nantong, Jiangsu province, displaying nearly 100 old and new genealogies for the first time.

Genealogy records offer a glimpse into a family's lineage and the deeds of important people. It can enrich and supplement research into local history.

This exhibition featured a total of 51 old genealogies and 21 newly edited genealogies such as Jinghai Zhang Clan's Genealogy, Xiting Li Clan's Genealogy and Chongchuan Zhu Clan's Genealogy, showcasing the genealogy of Nantong and tracing family culture and urban changes in a certain historical period.

Nantong residents tour the exhibition. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Miao Yongtao, deputy secretary-general of the Rugao historical and cultural research association, said that the Rugao Jia Clan's Genealogy proves that the earliest immigrants to Nantong were Jia Nanping, an official during the Zhou Dynasty (c.11th century-771 BC), and some of his clan members who migrated from Shanxi province to Rugao more than 2,600 years ago. "They became the first generation of the Jia clan in Rugao," he said.

"From the prosperity and decline of each family, we can see the changes in the overall economic and social development of a region. Its genealogy shows that Nantong is a diversified city," Miao said.