The -history bit of Archistory

Detailed Research

The Archistory service offers two levels of detail regarding the historical account. In most cases the owner might have a few basic facts or pieces of information to go on, but the majority of information will require detailed research. In some cases the owner may have sufficient information and no extra research will be undertaken. The time taken in research is reflected in the final price.

When visiting the property it is important to see as many historical records as are available. Most owners have the Land Registry documents stating the previous occupants. Many people possess their original deeds; these are a most valuable source of information.

Prior to the site visit the client will be given a short historical questionnaire to give us a rough idea of the information directly available. Any available documents may need to be photocopied.

Any copies of legal documents, whether active or simply historical, will always be handled in the strictest confidence and only used specifically as the owner allows.

Historical research at Archistory is carried out by Paul Murray. After the site visit and discussion regarding the architectural process Paul may contact the client by phone and conduct a more detailed house history interview.

The normal pattern of research involves visiting local archive offices, libraries, and museums. Data is also gathered from online databases as well as the National Archives’ Census records to produce as detailed an account as possible.

The final account

The emphasis of the narrative is discussed with you. If there is a surplus of information available such as a long list of tenants’ names, these may be left out. In some cases it may be interesting to direct the narrative towards subjects linked to the history of the house such as the career of the architect responsible for the building, or other points of local interest. In most cases we can trace the provenance of ownership from construction to the present day. Inclusion of details regarding the previous owners’ professions, family relationships, domestic servants and places of birth can often be discovered and added to the history.

We always send a draft document to you by e-mail or post for approval before the finished work is printed. Any alterations can be made before the text is added to the architectural drawing. A commission can be produced from start to finish in a matter of a couple of weeks if required. However, at busy times such as the run up to Christmas waiting times may be longer.

Here are a selection of images which show the detail of an Archistory. Please click on a small image for larger view.

Below PDFs of some recent Full Archistory commissions.

The Pavilion, Hampton Court Palace .pdf 750KB
Aldourie Castle .pdf 1.8MB
Broughton Hall.pdf 481KB

Click here to Commission your Full Archistory

 

t: 0208 766 6822
m: 07966 539 861
e: info@archistory.co.uk