Archive project

The Herbert Collection

A huge collection of delicate photographs is now being preserved at Dorset History Centre.

Graham V Herbert spent his whole working life running the family photographic business in Weymouth, building up a considerable reputation as a commercial photographer. (more…)

Unlocking the Bankes Archive

Dorset History Centre is working in partnership with the National Trust at Kingston Lacy and the Priest’s House Museum in Wimborne on an exciting project focused on one of Dorset’s largest and most significant archive collections, that of the Bankes family. (more…)

Miss World’s whistle-stop Weymouth tour!

Were you aware that in 1965, winner of the Miss World international beauty pageant and one-time Bond girl, came from none other than our own fair county? Watch, as blonde bombshell Lesley Langley wanders about Weymouth in these latest of photos from the Herbert Photographic Collection. A mayoral reception along the Esplanade, press teams pointing… Read more Miss World’s whistle-stop Weymouth tour!

Robin Hood comes to Poole

Recent cataloguing of the Poole Borough Archive has revealed an early mention of Robin Hood! The earliest existing record book for Poole Borough, dating 1490-1553, provides us with a yearly record of appointed officers – mayors, churchwardens, bailiffs, keymen and constables – along with accounts of town and parish funds, traditionally held in the ‘town… Read more Robin Hood comes to Poole

Journeys to new worlds: transportation in 18th century

Transportation records in the Borough of Poole Archive provide a fascinating insight into the fate of 18th century convicts, including one of the very first Europeans sent to Australia.   Most people know the story of Dorset’s most famous transportees, the Tolpuddle Martyrs sent to Australia in 1834 for setting up a Friendly Society. Now,… Read more Journeys to new worlds: transportation in 18th century

Trailing Treves

Explore the Treves Trail – a walking trail in Dorchester which gradually reveals information about the life of Sir Frederick Treves. 175 years of rural healthcare DCH175 has been a Heritage Lottery Funded project to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Dorset’s county hospital. Such a significant institution touches many lives, and its history… Read more Trailing Treves

Take your Time

“Take Your Time” was a Health and Wellbeing Legacy funded project which aimed to improve well-being for those living with dementia.

Dorset History Centre (DHC) had a Reminiscence Worker, funded for 9 months by the Olympic Legacy Fund.  (more…)