Local History
Introduction
My interest in local history grew out of researching family history and a desire to learn more about the town I live in. I love researching, using both online sources and archive documents. I often give talks and have collaborated with national and local heritage groups. I write historical fiction and nonfiction.
Have a look at the miniguides if you’re thinking of setting up a group, or if you’re thinking of trying out different activities. They may spark a few ideas.
I provide access to sources of information and expertise by arranging occasional talks for Online learning events.
Not everyone has access to a local group, so I facilitate an Interest Groups Online group.
I’ve facilitated the Tweeddale Local History Group for about eight years, experimenting with a wide range of approaches and preferences. There isn’t much we haven’t tried. I’d like to share my experience with you and learn from yours, so feel free to get in touch.
I’m an experienced facilitator with an MSC in learning and development.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Local History Miniguides - tips & ideas
Online Research Archives
- heritage hubs & research centres e.g. Scottish Borders at Heart of Hawick
- e.g. University of Edinburgh Centre for Research Collections
- history, heritage and archaeology socs e.g. Community Archive& Heritage Group
- landed estates e.g Argyll Estates at Inverary Castle
- Schools, e.g. Fettes College
- members’ clubs e.g. Glasgow Art Club
- Photographic and audio-visual collections (a selection)
- George Washington Wilson at University of Aberdeen Special Collections
- Capital Collections from City of Edinburgh Libraries, Museums and Galleries
- Tuck postcards online
- National Library of Scotland Moving Image Archive (visit at Kelvinhall, Glasgow)
- British Pathé
- British Library oral histories
- SCRAN (subscription or access at public libraries and schools)
- Am Baile Highland History and Culture
- Individual businesses g. House of Fraser (University of Glasgow)
Oil & Gas Archive ‘Capturing the Energy’ at the University of Aberdeen
- Games Commonwealth Games Scotland at University of Stirling Archives and Special Collections
- Theatre Scottish Theatre Archive at University of Glasgow Special Collections
Finding material, help and tips
Use online catalogues, indexes, subject guides
- The National Archives Discovery
- Scottish Archive Network Archives Hub
- National Register of Archives for Scotland (historically significant papers in private hands)
- Online catalogues, indexes, subject and research guides on individual websites
- e.g. Uni of Edinburgh Centre for Research Collections catalogue
Identities