Archives and history

We provide a service for local and family history research and hold the largest collection of materials in the Borough on the history of Ilford, Wanstead, Woodford and Redbridge.
 
These materials include:

• periodicals
• census information
• maps
• military resources
• free access to Ancestry library edition
• free access to Find My Past
• free access to British Newspaper Archives

We also have a general collection of books on the history of Essex and the surrounding London boroughs including maps, periodicals and local newspapers.

Materials from the archive service are available by appointment

The Heritage Service delivers a wide range of free education sessions based around the national curriculum. Groups can use historic archives, maps, and photographs to learn about the history of their local area and school.

Combine your session with a visit to the museum where students can handle real artefacts, take part in fun activities and explore the displays.

Contact info.heritage@visionrcl.org.uk for more information or to book a session.