People research local history for many different reasons, but often there’s a personal story behind it.
Perhaps you have memories of a workplace that’s gone forever or a factory, coalmine, dancehall or cinema, for example. Perhaps you want to get in touch with members of your old regiment, hospital staff, football squad... Or you might simply be curious about the locality or the house you live in.
Whatever your interest, you can be sure that others will share it. That’s why researching local history can be such a sociable and rewarding activity.
Where to start
Again, your local library is a great place to start. Many have collections of local historical documents, newspaper articles and photographs. You might have to arrange to see them in advance, so it's worth ringing the library, or checking their website if you're online.
In addition, most large towns and local authorities have a record office or local studies library. They often publish their own guides to research, and store a wide range of original local documents including:
- Local parish and government records
- Records of local businesses, societies and groups
- Legal records
- Diaries of individuals
- Maps and estate papers
- Census returns
- Visual and spoken history material
- Newspapers
Your library or record office will also be able to tell you about local history societies, courses and publications.
