Archives
In the belief that archives are the bedrock of historical studies, HAT promotes, encourages, helps to finance and generally supports the preservation, conservation and organisation of materials of all kinds – documents, photographs, recordings, film and video and digital files.
During the summer of 2024 HAT conducted a survey of Hampshire archives holding groups (excluding the record offices in Hampshire) to find out more about access to material held by these groups, discover how much is electronically catalogued, what percentage is available on line, and just see how much is held. The webinar (17 Oct 2024) shown below presents the data gathered. An update can be seen here
HAT is committed to supporting the preservation and celebration of valuable local archives through our grants system, events and other related activities.
Discover Local Archives
Hampshire has one of the richest collections of archives in the country. As well major collections – at Hampshire Record Office, Winchester, and the city archives of Southampton and Portsmouth – there are also important archives held at the Universities and a wide range of smaller collections, associated with local history and heritage groups, museums and historic sites, companies, genealogists and other individuals, and families with significant archives. Some of these collections are of national importance.
your archive
Many people have photographs, documents and materials that have personal historical value but many do not realise that these items also have a wider historical value. We strongly believe that understanding your past is key to shaping a better future and we encourage everyone to care for their own archives and to share those with us and others – whether that’s through depositing their archive in the appropriate local repository, creating an accessible archive for others or simply by sharing their stories telling us of their experience in creating an archive. This website features stories written by various authors using their own research in local archives and which we think are particularly interesting. If you have an archive-related story that you think would be of wider interest then please do tell us about it and if suitable we will add it to the stories we have published on this site.
Stories from the Archives
Looking for George Austen at Monk Sherborne
In this anniversary year, spare a thought for Jane Austen’s elder brother George. The historical record says something about his life. We know that he
Series 4: Episode 2 – The Watercress Line and Celebrating Railway 200
In this episode, Daniella speaks to Daniel Ball, the education and outreach coordinator for the Watercress Line heritage railway. The episode explores the current Railway 200 celebrations and the work undertaken by Daniel and volunteers to explore this the history and heritage of railways in Hampshire and engage local communities with their local history.
‘Britain shall not Burn’: Commemorating 84-years since the Portsmouth Blitz Bombings at Royal Garrison Church
Royal Garrison Church stands by the sea on the edge of Old Portsmouth. Its picturesque silhouette, beautiful stained-glass windows, and Victorian and Edwardian interior are
Series 4: Episode 1 – The British Association for Local History and Supporting Local History Across the United Kingdom
In this episode, Daniella is joined by Dr Paul Dryburgh and Joe Saunders of the British Association for Local History. Paul and Joe discuss the work that the British Association do to support local history societies across the United Kingdom, their resources, outreach and digital engagement initiatives, and ways that people can become involved in what the British Association for Local History do.
‘Placing Jane’ in the Heart of Southampton: A Day of Tea, Talks and Timeless Tales
Saturday 3 May 2025 saw Southampton transformed into a buzzing hive of bonnets, books, and brilliant minds as literary and history lovers descended upon the
Celebrating Preservation: A Day of Archival Discovery and Historical Appreciation
Members of the Hampshire Archive Trust (HAT) recently enjoyed a special visit to the New Forest Heritage Trust, marking the successful completion of a significant