Can I set the start block number while creating a datasource template?

[dolchain]

The Graph supports starting a dynamically instantiated data source from a block earlier than the current block?
The dynamic data source instantiated from a template begins processing events from the block where the .create() function was called. Is this correct?

[itsjerryokolo]

Yes. It starts processing events from the block where the .create() function was called.

[dolchain]

Thanks for your kind reply. how can I track the past event blocks which is before the block where .create() function was called? Is it possible?

[itsjerryokolo]

You can add multiple datasources to the subgraph.yaml, and you can use the same schema for all the datasources.
If for example you were already tracking a contract before .create() is called, you can update the entities in your schema with new data from the instantiated datasource.

It won't sync backwards.

Also, there is a new feature which will soon be rolled out soon. Perhaps that's what you are looking for?
graphprotocol/graph-node#3221

graphprotocol/graph-node#4725

[dolchain]

Thanks. That sounds impressive.
I would appreciate if you can explain more about Polling block Handler and initialization handler and how to use it?