An Introduction to Archive Research Skills

Key Information

Event Leads: Peter Mitchell and Rachel Anderson

Event Length: 2x 3-hour sessions. Tuesday 14 Oct, 1pm - 4pm | Tuesday 28 Oct, 1pm - 4pm

Meet at: NHSN Council Room, Level 2, Great North Museum: Hancock

About this Course

This comprehensive two-part course offers an essential introduction to archival research. Led by NHSN Heritage Researchers Dr Peter Mitchell and Dr Rachel Anderson at the Great North Museum: Hancock, this course will provide practical experience using NHSN's extensive archival collections in their North East Nature Archive (NENA).

You'll explore the fundamental principles of archival organisation and hierarchy, develop crucial palaeography skills (deciphering old handwriting), explore various research methodologies, and learn how to plan and design your own research projects.

Beyond practical application, the course provides valuable insight into the structure and function of archives, encouraging reflection on how archival sources influence the historical narratives we construct. Discover how to navigate the complexities of incomplete or biased records and understand the 'politics' of the archive.

Whether you're a budding historian, a genealogist, a student, or simply curious about uncovering the past, this workshop will equip you with the confidence and skills to explore original historical documents.

Accessibility

The NHSN Council Room is fully accessible via the lift towards the back of the museum.

About the Tutors

Dr Peter Mitchell recieved his BA in English Language and Literature from Oxford University and his MA and PhD from Queen Mary, University of London. He is an experienced heritage and community history worker, with a proven track record in delivering public and community history projects, events, workshops and training sessions. He is the author of Imperial Nostalgia: how the British Conquered Themselves (Manchester University Press, 2021) and co-author of Ruling the World: Freedom, Civilisation and Liberalism in the Nineteenth-Century British Empire (Cambridge University Press, 2021). His specialisms lie in oral history, family history, archives, historical geography, postcolonial historiography, nineteenth-century imperialism, conflict and crisis in colonial settings, diplomacy, communication and technology.

Dr Rachel Anderson recieved her BA in History from Cambridge University before returning to the North East to complete her MA and PhD at Durham University. An experienced archives professional, she has previously worked at institutions like Alnwick Castle, and is currently employed by both Newcastle University Library Special Collections and Archives and NHSN. Her research explores the social history of health and disease, with her PhD focusing on plague workers, policy, and the poor in early modern England and Scotland.

About the Project

This event is facilitated by Nature's Cure in Time of Need: New Voices for North East Nature, a National Lottery Heritage Fund supported project dedicated to capturing stories about how nature has provided solace and strength during challenging times. The stories you submit as part of this project will form a new collection in NHSN's North East Nature Archive (NENA) housed here in the Great North Museum: Hancock. By preserving these personal narratives in the archive, the project ensures that future generations can connect with the ways nature has shaped and supported our communities. Through workshops, events, and storytelling, Nature’s Cure invites everyone to share their story.

Photos will be taken at this event to use on social media and in NHSN publicity material. If you would prefer not to be photographed please let us know at the start of the event.