July 2023

The Overseers and the Old Poor Law

The Poor Laws existed in England and Wales between the late 16th century and the 20th century in some form or another. Before their introduction, beggars and vagrancy were increasingly viewed as a problem that needed to be dealt with, so a system was created to help the ‘deserving poor’ and punish the ‘undeserving poor’… Read more The Overseers and the Old Poor Law

13 Years Old and 14 Miles Out: Ann Gillett, the Husbandry Apprentice

The history of Tyneham in the present tends to focus on its military turning point during the Second World War, when the villagers were evacuated in December 1943 by the military and were not allowed to return post-war. Even now, councils and associations as far as Portsmouth are in deliberations about how to restore the… Read more 13 Years Old and 14 Miles Out: Ann Gillett, the Husbandry Apprentice

Historical Plays set in North Dorset

Every box in DHC’s repositories is a remnant of a human experience – from farm accounts to heartfelt diaries. So it’s no wonder that writers, including our supporter Minette Walters, find inspiration in the archives and put fingers to keys to retell stories of times long past. Read on to find out how Sue Ashby,… Read more Historical Plays set in North Dorset

Work Experience 2023: Molly’s experience

Through four weeks in June and July 2023, Dorset History Centre hosted two students on work experience placements. During this month, they were given the opportunity to learn about what DHC does and how we work. In this blog, Molly gives us her thoughts on the placement… — Hi there! My name is Molly Butcher… Read more Work Experience 2023: Molly’s experience

Work Experience 2023: Ben’s experience

Through four weeks in June and July 2023, Dorset History Centre hosted two students on work experience placements. During this month, they were given the opportunity to learn about what DHC does and how we work. In this blog, Ben gives us his thoughts on the placement… — Hi, I’m Ben Corben-Hale, a history student… Read more Work Experience 2023: Ben’s experience

Conservation tools: a handy gadget to have

If you have visited the Dorset History Centre during June and spent time in the reception area you may have seen the display showcasing some of the many tools, and a few commonly used materials, that can be found in the conservation studio. Our Conservator explains more… — Some of the tools may look familiar,… Read more Conservation tools: a handy gadget to have