Q. Is Oldham Local Studies and Archives free to use?
Our resources are available for use by everybody, free of charge. We do however make a charge for any copies you may require.
Q. What can I find out about at the Oldham Local Studies and Archives?
A wealth of local history and family history information is available for you to use. We collect and preserve material relating to Oldham Metropolitan Borough, which includes the districts of Failsworth, Crompton, Royton, Chadderton, Lees and Saddleworth.
Q. What is held at Oldham Local Studies and Archives?
Maps, local newspapers, census returns, parish registers, photographs, books, pamphlets, electoral registers, and oral history. As well as archives which include records of local authorities, hospitals, businesses, unions, co-ops, societies and families. Further information on our collections can be found on our web site.
Q. Does the Archive have much information on family history?
Yes, many of the resources held here can be useful in tracing your family history. They include parish registers, census returns, memorial inscriptions, newspapers, electoral rolls, trade directories and sources on CD ROM. A handout: Tracing Your Family History at Oldham Local Studies and Archives is available from us. This information can also be found on the Oldham website.
Q. What can people donate to Oldham Local Studies and Archives?
We are always on the look out for new material to add to our collections. Records that might seem unimportant to you now could be of immense value to researchers in the future. Items of interest include books, pamphlets, photographs, newsletters, diaries, records of local businesses, community groups and societies.
Q. Where is Oldham Local Studies and Archives?
We occupy the former Post and Telegraph Office at the corner of Union Street and Greaves Street.
84 Union Street,
Oldham,
OL1 1DN
Tel and Fax: 0161 770 4654
e-mail: ecs.local.studies@oldham.gov.uk