Local History Centre And Archives
Services available
Occupying a 600 year-old woolhouse which is located 
next to Poole Museum , Poole's Local History Centre has resources for all aspects of research. An extensive library is supported by microfilmed and digitised material.
Whether your interest is in
- Poole family history
- old maps and charts
- photographs
- historical newspapers
this is a treasure house of Poole heritage.
Our helpful staff can also advise on research methods and sources of additional information. We have a large photographic and historic archive of the town's building, events and its former inhabitants. It is advisable to book microfilm machines and computers.
We have previous Electoral Roll records, 150 years of local newspapers, Census Returns, Parish Records and street directories.
We also hold here the Maritime History Records and the Index of Poole Ships and Port arrivals and departures and the records of the historical trade links with Newfoundland and other overseas ports.
The Local History Centre has a lift and facilities for people with disabilities.
Opening times and bookings
Tuesday - Saturday 10.00am - 3.00pm (closed on Tuesdays following a Bank Holiday).
For bookings and enquiries - Tel: (01202) 262621 or 262613
Archives
Poole's historic documents are kept at the Dorset History Centre , these include;
- crime and plague
- civic expenditure and political life
- Longspee Charter of 1248
- Book of the Staple
- Grant of Arms
- Poole Census of 1574
You can contact the Dorset Archives Service at Dorchester:
Dorset Archives Service
Bridport Road
DORCHESTER
Dorset
DT1 1RP
Telephone:- 01305 250550.
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