This week, The National Archives had the honor of welcoming a delegation from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Archives and History. It was a pleasure to host the members of this prestigious group and share with them the incredible work that we do here at The National Archives.
Led by our knowledgeable staff, the APPG members were treated to a tour of our repositories. As they walked through the vast halls, they were able to witness first-hand the sheer magnitude of our collection. With over 11 million historical government and public records, our repositories are home to some of the most significant documents in British history.
The tour was followed by a special display of some of our iconic documents, which were hosted by our expert archivists, Dr Jess Nelson and Dr Patricia Methven. The delegation was captivated as Dr Nelson and Dr Methven shared their extensive knowledge and insights into the documents on display. From the Magna Carta to Churchill’s wartime speeches, the APPG members were able to see and touch pieces of history that have shaped our nation.
But it wasn’t just about showcasing our collection. The visit also provided an opportunity for us to discuss the important work that we do at The National Archives. From preserving and digitizing records to providing public access to historical documents, we are committed to safeguarding our nation’s heritage for future generations.
The APPG members were also able to learn about our ongoing projects and initiatives, such as the First World War Centenary Program and the Opening Up Archives Project, which aim to make our collection more accessible to the public. We were thrilled to receive positive feedback from the delegation on these projects and their potential to inspire and educate people about our country’s past.
The visit also allowed us to highlight the vital role that archives play in shaping our understanding of history. As the saying goes, “those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Archives like ours serve as a crucial reminder of our past and help us make informed decisions for the future.
We are grateful to the APPG for taking the time to visit The National Archives and for their interest in our work. It was a pleasure to share our passion for preserving and promoting our nation’s rich history with such esteemed guests.
At The National Archives, we are committed to making history accessible to all. We believe that by sharing our collection and knowledge with the public, we can inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of our past. We also hope to encourage more people to engage with archives and discover the treasures that lie within.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the APPG for Archives and History for their visit and for their continued support in our mission to safeguard and promote our nation’s heritage. We look forward to future collaborations and opportunities to share our collection and expertise with the wider community.
In conclusion, the visit by the APPG for Archives and History was a memorable and enriching experience for all involved. It served as a reminder of the importance of archives in preserving our history and shaping our future. We hope that this visit has inspired the delegation to continue their support for archives and to spread the word about the valuable work that we do at The National Archives.
