'Archives Revealed' grant

The archive of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) – founded in 1877 by designer William Morris and architect Philip Webb – is one of the oldest collections of material in the UK dedicated to buildings conservation. The archive’s casework files, photographs, plans and architectural drawings form an invaluable resource for researchers, including architects, conservationists, and design historians. They are a unique record of buildings that may have changed over time or even been destroyed. The archive also contains letters from key historical figures, including designers, architects, writers and politicians.

'SPAB's archive tells the story of buildings, people and conservation of the historic environment in the UK and beyond. It’s a working archive, and the Archives Revealed Scoping Grant will help us prioritise work to care for it effectively so that it continues to be a resource for present and future generations', says CEO Matthew Slocombe.

'Archives Revealed' scoping grants are dedicated to the cataloguing and unlocking of archival collections for public research and enjoyment. The programme is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Pilgrim Trust, the Wolfson Foundation and The National Archives. 

Images: SPAB poster featuring Bradenstoke Priory ‘before and during demolition’, 1930. Photo © SPAB and Rolled drawings in the SPAB archive © SPAB