About Southwark Archives
Our collections
We hold records of local
- government bodies, including the London Borough of Southwark and the metropolitan boroughs and civil parishes that came before it
- organisations, like churches, political and social groups, schools, and businesses
- people, families, and properties
The London Borough of Southwark is the current local government for Southwark – it began in 1965. From 1900 to 1965, there were three metropolitan boroughs in Southwark. Before 1900, there were ten civil parishes.
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What other collections do you hold?
Our local history reference library has books and other things – like files of research notes and newspaper cuttings – to help visitors understand our collection of archives. Some of them explain the history of a subject. Others have memories of people who live or lived here. We have old copies of local newspapers and copies of some government records – like the census – as well.
We also have collections of maps, photographs and drawings, and ephemera.
Ephemera are collectible, disposable documents for specific events - things like tickets, posters, flyers, and programmes.
A range of films reflecting life in the borough from 1920s to the present can be viewed by arrangement. Some of our films can also be viewed online.
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Where else can I find records about Southwark?
A number of other archives hold records about Southwark. The London Metropolitan Archives holds records of local Anglican parishes, Poor Law Unions, schools, hospitals, and first responders. It also holds the oldest records of St. Saviour’s civil parish.
Because Southwark was part of Surrey until 1888, the Surrey History Centre in Woking holds local court records and electoral registers. The British Library also holds copies of local electoral registers.
The National Archives holds records of central government, including military, immigration, and court records. Local businesses, universities, charities, and other organisations may have their own archives. The National Archives’ Discovery website can help you who holds records you’re interested in.
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Are there guides to the collections?
The following guides have been written to help you navigate the collections and research some of the diverse communities of Southwark:
- Sources for Southwark family history
- Tracing your Caribbean family
- LGBTQ+ communities collections guide
- Black, Asian and Global Majority communities collections guide
- History of mental health and wellbeing collections guide
- A guide to searching for death and burial records in Southwark
- Guide to non-parochial registers
Page last updated: 15 September 2023
