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Who came to see the Retreat? A look through the Retreat Visitors’ Books

Written by Kath Webb. Queen Victoria and the Duke of Wellington didn’t visit the Retreat! The monarch would never have signed herself “Queen Victoria” in 1856, and the signature of the Iron Duke in 1821 fails to match up with authenticated examples. Mischievous or deluded patients from the democratic Retreat “family” were probably responsible for … Continue reading Who came to see the Retreat? A look through the Retreat Visitors’ Books

‘Who Do You Think You Are? Live!’ 16-18 April 2015

Written by Gary Brannan, Access Archivist Who Do You Think You Are? Live! (or WDYTYA, as it’s known) is the UKs biggest family history event. It’s estimated that over 10,000 visitors come each year to immerse themselves with everything that is on offer. For some, it’s pleasure, for others it’s a serious business. No visit … Continue reading ‘Who Do You Think You Are? Live!’ 16-18 April 2015

Project Genesis takes root!

Written by Sally-Anne Shearn, Genesis Project Archivist This week is National Gardening Week which ties in perfectly to the first subject of Project Genesis, the archive of renowned horticulturist and landscape gardener James Russell.  In many ways James Russell makes an ideal starting point for the project.  Unusually for a Borthwick collection, the archive of … Continue reading Project Genesis takes root!

A breath of fresh air…

The air handling systems we have here at the Borthwick were installed just over 10 years ago ahead of our move from our old site at St. Anthony’s Hall. They work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and help, along with the building’s design, to keep a consistent level of both temperature and … Continue reading A breath of fresh air…

Introducing the Genesis Project

Written by Sally-Anne Shearn, Genesis Project Archivist The Borthwick Institute holds archival collections that range in date from the 11th century to the present day.  If you have visited the Institute yourself you will be all too familiar with the numerous paper catalogues that take up an entire wall of the searchroom reception, serving as … Continue reading Introducing the Genesis Project

Slow and Steady Wins the Pace

Written by students from the University of York on a work experience placement. The renowned ecclesiastical architects Pace and Sims were prolific. Both were involved in a wide range of projects, from restoring Castle Howard, to designing memorials at churches and cathedrals, and constructing imposing new buildings such as Keele University chapel. During our work … Continue reading Slow and Steady Wins the Pace

Keeping Up the Pace (and Sims) at the Borthwick

Written by students from the University of York on a work experience placement.  Death and Dairies at Castle Howard Our week began with a brief introduction and tour of the Borthwick Institute’s archives and stores. The collection is massive and the works are housed in strong rooms which we were certain could survive the apocalypse! … Continue reading Keeping Up the Pace (and Sims) at the Borthwick