Research Resources for Kent History
Kent's rich historical heritage is documented through an extensive network of archives, libraries, museums, and specialist collections across the county. Whether you are a professional historian, an amateur genealogist, or simply curious about Kent's past, these resources offer invaluable access to primary sources, expert knowledge, and research facilities. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the wealth of resources available for exploring Kent's fascinating history.
Key Archives and Research Centres
Kent is home to several major archival collections that house documents spanning over a millennium of the county's history. These repositories provide access to original materials that form the bedrock of historical research.
Kent Archives (Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone)
The Kent Archives, located in the Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone, is the primary repository for historical documents relating to Kent. The archives house an extensive collection of records dating back to 699 AD, making it an essential resource for anyone researching Kent's history.
Contact: 03000 42 06 73 / archives@kent.gov.uk
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00am - 5:00pm (appointment required)
Website: www.kentarchives.org.uk
The Kent Archives collections include:
- Parish registers (baptisms, marriages, burials) dating back to the 16th century
- Quarter Sessions records (1574-1971)
- Maps and plans, including tithe maps from the 1840s
- Manorial records and estate papers
- Local government records
- Business archives, including those of breweries, paper mills, and engineering firms
- Hospital records
- Poor Law Union records
- School records
- Oral history recordings
- Photographic collections
To access the archives, you will need to book a visit in advance. First-time visitors will need to register for a Reader's Ticket by providing identification. The archives offer a range of facilities including microfilm readers, digital imaging services, and expert staff who can provide guidance on research methods.
Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library
The Archives and Library of Canterbury Cathedral contain an extraordinary collection of manuscripts, books, and records dating back to the 8th century. This collection is particularly strong in ecclesiastical history but also contains significant materials relating to the history of Canterbury and East Kent.
Contact: 01227 865 330 / archives@canterbury-cathedral.org
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00am - 5:00pm (appointment required)
Website: www.canterbury-cathedral.org/heritage/archives-library
The Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library collections include:
- The Cathedral's own administrative records dating from the 12th century
- Records of the Archbishop's courts and administration
- City of Canterbury records
- Parish records for East Kent
- School archives, including King's School Canterbury
- Maps, plans, and architectural drawings
- Rare books and manuscripts
- A specialist reference library for ecclesiastical and local history
Medway Archives Centre
The Medway Archives Centre in Strood houses collections relating to the Medway area, including Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, and Strood, with records dating from the 16th century to the present day.
Contact: 01634 332714 / malsc@medway.gov.uk
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
Website: www.medway.gov.uk/info/200181/medway_archives_centre
The Medway Archives Centre collections include:
- Rochester City Archives (1227-1974)
- Records of the Royal Dockyard at Chatham
- Records relating to HMS Pembroke and other naval establishments
- Parish records for Medway parishes
- Local newspapers dating from 1717
- Extensive photographic collections
- Oral history collections
- Local studies library
Libraries with Local History Collections
Beyond the main archives, many of Kent's libraries maintain valuable local history collections that are excellent resources for researchers.
Note: Kent Libraries have undergone significant changes in recent years, with many local history collections being centralised at the Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone. However, many local branches still maintain important collections relating to their immediate areas.
Key libraries with significant local history collections include:
| Library | Notable Collections | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Maidstone Library (Kent History and Library Centre) | Comprehensive collection covering all of Kent, including extensive reference materials | James Whatman Way, Maidstone, ME14 1LQ 03000 41 31 31 |
| Canterbury Library | Strong collections on Canterbury and East Kent history | The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, 18 High Street, Canterbury, CT1 2RA 03000 41 31 31 |
| Sevenoaks Library | Collections relating to West Kent history | Buckhurst Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 1LQ 03000 41 31 31 |
| Tonbridge Library | Local history materials for Tonbridge and surrounding areas | 1 Avebury Avenue, Tonbridge, TN9 1TG 03000 41 31 31 |
| Folkestone Library | Collections relating to Folkestone and the Channel coast | 2 Grace Hill, Folkestone, CT20 1HD 03000 41 31 31 |
| Dartford Library | Materials on North Kent and industrial heritage | Central Park, Market Street, Dartford, DA1 1EU 03000 41 31 31 |
Most libraries offer microfilm/microfiche readers, photocopying facilities, and internet access for research purposes. Many also provide access to subscription databases like Ancestry Library Edition and Find My Past for genealogical research.
Museums and Heritage Centres
Kent's museums not only display artefacts but often maintain archives and collections that can be valuable research resources.
Canterbury Museums and Galleries
Comprising several sites including The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge and Canterbury Roman Museum, these institutions hold significant collections relating to Canterbury's history from Roman times to the present day.
The Beaney includes a reference library and study collections that researchers can access by appointment. The Canterbury Roman Museum houses important archaeological archives relating to Roman Canterbury (Durovernum Cantiacorum).
Chatham Historic Dockyard
The Historic Dockyard maintains collections relating to naval history and shipbuilding in Kent. Their library and archive contain plans, photographs, and documents relating to the Royal Navy's presence in the Medway.
Dover Museum
Housing significant collections relating to the history of Dover and its role as Britain's gateway to Europe, the museum maintains archives relating to maritime history, wartime Dover, and the town's development.
Other notable museums with research collections include:
- Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery
- Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery
- Guildhall Museum, Rochester
- Kent Battle of Britain Museum, Hawkinge
- Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington
Online Resources
Numerous digital resources are now available for researchers interested in Kent history, making it possible to conduct significant research remotely.
Kent Online Parish Clerks
This volunteer-run website provides free access to transcribed parish records and other genealogical information for Kent parishes. It's an invaluable resource for family historians.
Kent Archaeological Society
The Society's website provides access to digitised volumes of Archaeologia Cantiana, their annual journal dating back to 1858, along with numerous other resources for historical and archaeological research.
Exploring Kent's Past
This online database maintained by Kent County Council provides access to the Kent Historic Environment Record, with information on archaeological sites, historic buildings, and landscape features across the county.
Subscription Genealogy Websites
Several major online services provide access to digitised Kent records:
- Findmypast - Has partnered with Kent Archives to digitise parish registers and other records
- Ancestry - Contains numerous Kent records including census returns, parish registers, and electoral registers
- The Genealogist - Offers access to tithe maps and apportionments for Kent parishes
Many of these subscription services can be accessed for free at Kent libraries.
Specialist Societies and Groups
Kent boasts numerous historical and archaeological societies that maintain their own collections and can provide specialist knowledge and guidance.
Kent Family History Society
Established in 1974, the KFHS helps people trace their Kent ancestors. They have transcribed numerous parish registers and other records, and maintain a reference library at Maidstone.
Kent Archaeological Society
Founded in 1857, the KAS is one of the oldest county archaeological societies in England. They maintain a library and archives at Maidstone Museum and publish research through their journal and monographs.
Other notable societies include:
- Canterbury Archaeological Trust
- Centre for Kentish Studies
- North West Kent Family History Society
- Romney Marsh Research Trust
- Various town and parish historical societies across the county
Research Guides and Publications
Several key publications can help researchers navigate Kent's historical resources:
- Researching Kentish Ancestry: A Guide for Family and Local Historians by David Wright
- Kent Sources series published by Kent Archives
- Phillimore's Parish Registers of Kent (multi-volume series)
- Victoria County History of Kent (authoritative multi-volume county history)
- Hasted's History and Topographical Survey of the County of Kent (classic 18th-century county history)
- The Journal of Kent History (contemporary research articles)
The Kent Archives website also offers downloadable research guides on specific topics such as house history, military records, and industrial heritage.
Planning Your Research
Effective historical research requires careful planning. Here are some tips for making the most of Kent's historical resources:
Before You Visit
- Clearly define your research question or objectives
- Check the repository's website for information about access requirements, opening hours, and collections
- Contact the archive or library in advance to discuss your research needs
- Book appointments where required
- Check what identification you'll need to register
- Explore online catalogues to identify relevant materials
- Check if any materials you need are available online before travelling
During Your Visit
- Bring necessary equipment (pencils, notebook, laptop, camera if permitted)
- Ask staff for guidance - they often have expert knowledge of their collections
- Take careful notes, including full references for any materials consulted
- Respect handling guidelines for historical materials
- Check reproduction policies before photographing or copying documents
Research Tip: Many archives now permit photography of documents using your own camera or smartphone (usually without flash). This can be more cost-effective than paying for photocopies or digital images and allows you to review materials in detail later. Always check the repository's policy before taking photographs.
Contact and Enquiry Services
If you are unable to visit in person, many Kent archives and libraries offer remote enquiry services:
- Kent Archives Remote Enquiry Service - Can undertake limited research for a fee
- Canterbury Cathedral Archives Enquiry Service - Offers guidance and limited document checking
- Kent Family History Society Research Service - Volunteers can undertake genealogical research for members
These services are particularly useful for researchers based outside Kent or overseas who cannot easily visit in person. However, they typically charge fees for extended research and there may be limits to the time they can devote to individual enquiries.
Conclusion
Kent's rich and varied history is reflected in the wealth of research resources available across the county. From the comprehensive collections at Kent Archives to the specialist knowledge of local historical societies, researchers have access to materials covering every aspect of Kent's past from prehistoric times to the present day.
Whether you're researching family history, investigating a particular historical event, or exploring the development of your local area, Kent's archives, libraries, museums, and online resources provide the primary materials and expert guidance needed to unlock the county's fascinating history.
For further assistance with your research, please feel free to contact us at Kent History Hub. We're dedicated to supporting historical research and can help point you in the right direction for your specific area of interest.
Note: Due to the ongoing changes in services and opening hours, particularly in the post-COVID environment, we recommend checking current opening hours and access arrangements directly with the relevant institution before planning your visit.