Name change for home of Berkshire history
County records office is now 'The Royal Berkshire Archives'
The Berkshire Record Office has been granted permission to adopt a new title - 'The Royal Berkshire Archives' – in its 75th year of preserving the unique history and heritage of the county.
The Royal seal of approval comes after the unanimous support of all six Berkshire councils who jointly applied for the privilege, and which has now been officially approved by the Cabinet Office.
The new name reflects Berkshire's unique status as England's only Royal county.
County archivist Mark Stevens says it's a huge honour:
"You've got the records of the old Royal county of Berkshire the County Council; you've got the record of the Royal Berkshire Yeomanry which is now the TA; and of course we've got a Royal Borough in Berkshire in Windsor and Maidenhead and we've got lots of archives. There's along standing connection between the county and its Royal connections and that's something we reflect."
These invaluable collections include historical records from public authorities and private organisations dating from the 12th century to the present day, including a grant of land in Aldermaston written between 1156-1164 and Charles I’s Charter granting rights to Reading from 1638, these are stored alongside the archives of Broadmoor Hospital, Reading Prison and the Thames Conservancy and collections with a Royal connection, such as those from the Royal Berkshire Yeomanry and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
The name will formally change on 10 August 2023. The date holds special significance as it marks the 75th anniversary of when the Archives first opened to the public, commemorating the day when the first county archivist commenced work at the Shire Hall in the Forbury. To celebrate this milestone and the new royal status, a birthday cake will be cut to announce the Archives' new name.
Reading Council Leader, Councillor Jason Brock, said:
“This is a momentous occasion for the Reading-based Berkshire Record Office, as it transforms into 'The Royal Berkshire Archives.' The distinguished title truly reflects the historical significance and contribution of what is an essential institution in preserving the rich heritage of our county.
"Similarly, the switch from ‘Record Office’ to ‘Archives’ is indicative of the fact that the institution has become far more than a local office of public record and, indeed, holds many collections of regional and national importance.
“The unanimous support of all six Berkshire councils and the official approval from the Cabinet Office demonstrate the exceptional value that The Royal Berkshire Archives holds for our community. As England's only Royal county, this renaming is also befitting tribute to our unique status.
“As we celebrate the 75th birthday of The Royal Berkshire Archives on 10 August, it will be not only a commemoration of our past but also, I hope, a testament to the enduring role that the Archives has in preserving our heritage for generations to come.”
You can find out more about the archive here