This is a practical tutor led course spread over 15 weeks that guides participants through the process of investigating a house history and what was there before, plus a presentation seminar one month after course completion. The format enables students to focus on their own research projects with personalised guidance from one of the UK’s leading house historians.
House history research involves a holistic approach in investigating buildings, places and people. To enable this there are five sets of course materials with an accompanying introductory video, spaced at three weekly intervals. These include focussed research tasks that will enable students to embark on their own research and learn how to use resources effectively. The dedicated Learning Hub allows students to share their discoveries, ask questions and receive feedback from the tutor.
Live group discussions are held at least once a week where students can discuss their progress and ask for advice.
It is strongly advised that participants are familiar with using some of the main archival sources used in family and local history research such as census returns, parish registers and wills. However, guidance will be given on using and interpreting all the records. Participants also receive a 15% discount on the Name and Place data management and mapping app, although taking out a subscription is not a requirement for joining the course.
Stepping Back in Time Part 1
- Starting Out and overview of documentary sources.
- Where to go to find records locally, nationally and online.
- Understanding terminology.
- Fixing Landmarks.
- Architecture – looking at buildings.
- Project planning.
Weekly discussions every week in between
Stepping Back in Time Part 2
- Includes ownership records, electoral registers, maps, land surveys, local histories and census returns.
- Putting it into practice.
Weekly discussions every week in between.
Stepping Back in Time Part 3
- Taking it further and expanding on some of the sources already investigated.
- Includes deeds and other ownership and occupancy records, maps and probate.
- Putting it into practice.
Weekly discussions every week in between.
Stepping Back in Time Part 4
- Beyond the Basics: Pitfalls and Possibilities.
- Includes older buildings and pre-1700 sources for buildings and land.
- What was there before the building?
- Putting it into practice.
Weekly discussions every week in between.
Stepping Back in Time Part 5
- Finishing Off.
- Putting it in context: social and local history.
- Integrating and revisiting your findings and sources.
- Putting your research together.
Weekly discussions every week in between.
Seminar Session
- Presenting Findings.
