Once upon a time, before the town of Portsmouth was founded, this coastline was made up of creeks, low-lying marsh and water. Over the centuries the coastline has altered, but the town's position here on the south coast, its proximity to the open sea, coupled with control of the harbour and its entrance, have secured Portsmouth's place in history as one of the world's great anchorages and a rendezvous for British shipping in times of war for over 800 years
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The Records Office
The Records Office is housed in the same building as Portsmouth City Museum. It holds the official records of Portsmouth City Council which survive from the 14th century; local Anglican and Non-Conformist church registers and records from 16th century; large collections of material deposited by local businesses, families and other organisations as well as thousands of local maps and plans, photographs and picture postcards, all of which can be consulted in the first-floor public Search Room.
Due to budget constraints it is likely that the Searchroom's opening hours will be significantly reduced in the near future. Please check with us before your visit.
Download a Word document detailing a listing of local history sources. Click here
All pictures are copyright of Portsmouth Museums and Record Service
