Archives - general information

Local History Unit

• Archives are original documents produced by official bodies, societies and individuals that are no longer in current use. The council may provide a way for local residents and business to view their archives, often in a local library.
• They may be 8 or 800 years old. Most archives are unique and have to be housed in secure conditions and handled with care.
• Many archives have been copied onto microfiche in order to save wear and tear on the originals.
• The documents range from the 12th to the 20th century. Included are official and privately-owned archives.

Enfield's Local History Unit aims to collect and keep permanently everything which helps to reflect life in Enfield, its people and institutions irrespective of date. It includes all material previously housed in the local collections of the former boroughs of Edmonton, Enfield and Southgate. In addition the department also houses a substantial collection of archive material from the former authorities.

Local History materials can be used for:
• Tracing your family history.
• Discovering the history of your village or town.
• Discovering the history of your house.
• School and college projects.
• Checking certain legal rights, e.g. rights of way.

The Local History Unit is based in a search room located adjacent to Southgate Town Hall. Staff with an encyclopaedic knowledge of Enfield and its history can assist and advise enquirers in locating information.

The material in stock includes books, pamphlets, periodicals, newspapers, maps, deeds, manuscripts, slides, tapes, films, microfilm, photographs, prints, leaflets from local societies, etc. Additions are constantly being made through purchase or donation.

Please contact the Local History Unit for more details.

Eligibility
None.

Required Customer Information
None.

Service Level Agreement and Turnaround
Some enquiries may be resolvable immediately. The aim is to respond to written requests for information within 7 days.

More information about this service

Contact Us

Frequently asked questions

Address:
Thomas Hardy House,
First Floor,
39 London Road,
Enfield,
Middlesex,
EN2 6DS
Map

Telephone:
020 8379 2724

Fax:
020 8379 8331

Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday (excluding Wednesday)
9:30am to 4:30pm

Please note that the Local History Unit does not offer a drop-in service. It is essential to book an appointment before visiting. Disabled access to LHU is restricted; please mention any restrictions on your personal mobility to staff before booking an appointment.

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