Staffordshire archives service doubles visitors to more than 16,000
Staffordshire’s archives and heritage service welcomed 16,594 visitors over the past year
Visitor numbers have doubled, more than 1,200 museum objects have gone on display and volunteers have given thousands of hours to Staffordshire’s heritage service.
The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Archives and Heritage Service, which cares for archive and museum collections across the area, has highlighted its achievements in its latest annual report.
Visits to the service doubled over the past year to 16,594, reflecting continued interest in local history and heritage.
The service also received 109 new archive items, including historic records, photographs and business archives, while the Museum Service accepted 23 new objects into its collections.
More than 1,200 museum objects were displayed across sites including the Staffordshire History Centre, or loaned to other museums such as the National Trust’s Shugborough Estate.
Schools and young people also took part in the service’s learning programme, with 19 school visits and more than 500 pupil contacts through on-site and outreach activities.
Digital engagement increased by 107 per cent following improvements to websites, collection databases and online indexes.
Volunteers contributed more than 7,000 hours during the year, supporting collections care, cataloguing, public access and events.
Hayley Coles, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Our archives and heritage collections tell the story of our amazing county and the people who have shaped it.
“It’s fantastic to see more residents, schools and community groups exploring these resources and discovering local history for themselves.
“The continued growth in visitor numbers and learning opportunities, as well as adding even more records and items to our incredible collections is brilliant.”
Other highlights included the Staffordshire History Festival, Staffordshire History Day, family events, community displays and five Staffordshire History Network events involving 30 heritage organisations.
The service also provided advice and support to museums, archives and community heritage groups across the county.
Further information is available through the Staffordshire History website.