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Reference & Archives

Museum Library
Museum Library

Steyning Museum has a reference area and archives devoted to local history. Visitors are welcome to use them for personal research or just to browse.

This is not a lending library but our friendly volunteers will make you welcome and offer their help if you need it. We have books, newspaper cuttings, deeds, documents, photographs and post cards, research papers and more. In total this is a wonderful local resource which is still growing.

The Sussex Archaeological Collections

The Sussex Archaeological
Collections

Published each year by the Sussex Archaeological Society, over 140 volumes of archaeological reports, research and a wealth of historical detail. Check the indexes. The chances are that several articles will touch on your subject. Well worth a visit just to browse and enjoy.

Follow the link to see our archives list If you are researching family history, the history of your house or the local area, have a look at our online list of archived material. There is a wealth of detailed information such as transcripts of local census records, monumental inscriptions and indexes to parish registers. Family historians can find out more about our services on the Genealogy pages. Alternatively telephone the museum if you would like to discuss your particular interest and arrange for help when you arrive.

Steyning public library is next door to the museum. These two very different facilities complement each other and anyone, especially students, with a project to complete will find a comfortable work space and a pleasant environment. If you are new to the area or just enjoy local history, take a look around the museum then find a book that gives you more insight into whatever takes your fancy.

Bygone Steyning, Bramber & Beeding
Bygone Steyning, Bramber & Beeding

Bygone Steyning, Bramber & Beeding

by Aylwin Guilmant

One of several charming publications which give a brief history of the area with photographs and drawings from times gone by. Stop by for half an hour and you will be amazed how many fascinating local details you can find.

There are many very old buildings in the area. The museum specialises in collecting deeds, documents and memorabilia associated with them. The owners or tenants of several shops and houses have been traced in detailed studies by local historians. An appeal for memories of Steyning in 1985 resulted in many fascinating reminiscences from elderly residents. Farming and industry, wartime, the old railway line, schools, churches, local celebrities and ancient relics are all represented on our shelves. Family historians may well find they have struck gold.

Domesday Book Sussex
Phillimore Edition
Domesday Book Sussex Phillimore Edition
An Historical Atlas of Sussex
Kim Leslie & Brian Short
An Historical Atlas of Sussex Kim Leslie & Brian Short

Useful Books

Two books which can give some vital background for the local researcher.