Visiting the Archives

Dudley Archives and Local History Service (DALHS) aims to acquire, preserve, and make available for public research, any and all material relating to the present Dudley Metropolitan Borough area. Our collections encompass the history of the region from the 12th Century until the present day, and we are always eager to receive more records!

 

So, if you have any important or interesting material relating to the history of the Borough, or your locality, please make a deposit and help us to preserve your past, in the present, for our future. If this appeals to you, why not pay us a visit and find out more.

 

Please note, however, that the material we hold is only available for consultation in our Searchroom, it cannot be borrowed. Also, it is possible that you may not be able to see some manuscript items less than 100 years old, as they may have restricted access conditions due to the Data Protection Act.

 

Most of our collections are unique and irreplaceable. Please help us to ensure the survival of our records for future generations by abiding by our Searchroom Regulations.

DALHS is a small service with limited resources, so, to make the best out of your visit and do some productive research, it is essential to book in advance of your visit. This is even more important if the material you wish to consult is less than 100 years old, then we are able to:

 

 

It may not always be possible to give you an answer immediately, but if this is the case, we will respond within 20 working days. These restrictions do not apply to parish registers, which can be freely viewed.

 

DALHS is part of the County Archive Research Network (CARN) and you will need a valid CARN ticket to use this service. Many of our records are available on microfilm or microfiche, however there is also ample table space for researchers and a large map table for consulting oversize material.