Archives drop-in: Islington in print

Islington Archives open our doors for a monthly drop-in on the last Thursday of each month, where you can view a display of our fascinating collections.

Islington’s print heritage has shaped its identity as a borough steeped in radical ideas and creative expression. This legacy began with Clerkenwell as a hub of London’s printing trade, whilst neighbouring Finsbury was home to the Caslon type foundry between 1737-1909.

During the 1970-80s, co-operative print studios and publications saw a heyday of leftist and community-led media. This included socialist newspaper the Islington Gutter Press and pioneering feminist magazine Spare Rib, both produced in Islington. Concurrently the Islington Bus Company, a co-operative that supported community organisations across Islington, had print and media facilities that enabled local groups to create posters, flyers and newsletters.

More recently, work undertaken at the Cubitt artist led co-operative in Angel has built upon these histories through the creation of the Cubitt Community Press, collaboratively publishing two editions of a newsletter featuring submissions from individuals and groups.

This session will feature examples of publications produced in Islington, highlighting the issues that have mattered to local communities and their relevance to the present day.

This is an opportunity to see unique archive material up close and at your own pace, with our archivists on hand to answer any questions.

The event is free to attend, but please book a timed slot.